Kirkland & Ellis LLP

Known as one of the most experienced finance lawyers in the nation, Jay Ptashek represents private equity firms, their portfolio companies, and corporate borrowers on both acquisition finance and corporate finance transactions. With a broad and diverse practice serving a wide spectrum of clients, Jay also advises on debt restructuring and capital structure management matters.

Jay has earned a reputation for bringing the full breadth of market knowledge in structuring, negotiating and implementing financing arrangements for Kirkland’s clients in matters across the U.S., Europe and Asia. He has been recognized every year since 2012 in Chambers Global and every year since 2010 in Chambers USA, which described him as “a strong leader and superb lawyer” and stated “he is excellent and provides good guidance.” The Legal 500 US recognized Jay as a hall of fame lawyer, and IFLR1000 has named him a “Market Leader” in Banking since 2018.

Jay collaborates closely with his colleagues to provide clients with the Firm’s collective knowledge and resources, which helps drive favorable economic and operating outcomes.

Outside of his legal practice, Jay is passionate about the arts. He serves on the national council of the board of directors for the University Musical Society, one of the oldest performing arts presenters in the U.S., which is housed on the University of Michigan campus.

Kirkland & Ellis LLP, 2009-present; Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, 1992-2009.

New York University School of Law, J.D., cum laude, 1992; University of Michigan, B.B.A., with high distinction, 1989.