Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP > New York, United States > Firm Profile
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP Offices
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Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Industry focus > Healthcare: health insurers Tier 1
Buoyed by its client roster of national insurers, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP's full-service team, led by William Bernstein, has been active in the transactional market, advising both Humana and Canopy Health on acquisitions and the creation of new insurance projects. In relation to this, the team also provides antitrust services for health sector clients. Litigation is another area of expertise, with a particular emphasis on reimbursement cases. California-based John LeBlanc is a key name in the practice, with experience advising on the full range of insurer-related disputes, as well as advising managed care providers. New York-based Robert Belfort is regarded in the market for his combination of transactional and regulatory advice, while California-based Paul Carr-Rollitt advises on major transactions. Also well regarded are ACA expert Michael Kolber, Medicaid expert Ann Karl, and regulatory expert Randi Siegel, all of whom are New York-based.Practice head(s):
William Bernstein
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Manatt has a particular aptitude for hiring attorneys who have a wide range of skills. Beyond interpreting policy, crafting policy or recommending reaction to policy, the team leads the discussion in envisioning a collaborative future with policymakers.’
‘The individuals at Manatt demonstrate a personal commitment to service that is unique. Team members clearly communicate effectively, therefore on an individual basis as a client I can trust that individuals collectively execute in my interest.’
Key clients
City of New York
Humana
Vermont Agency of Human Services
SBH Health System
Tufts Health Plan
Dignity Health
Kaiser Foundation Health Plan
Canopy Health
Health Net
Blue Shield of California
California Department of Health Care Services
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Wyoming Medical Center
Alliance of Dedicated Cancer Centers
Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Children’s Hospital Association
Legion Healthcare Partners
Connecticut Health Foundation
Maine Department of Health and Human Services
Catholic Health Association of the United States
AARP
MultiCare Health System
Yale New Haven Health System
Oregon Health Authority/Department of Justice
Adirondack Health Institute
Medisys Health Network
Velano Vascular
Astiva Health
Brandman Health Plan
THT Health
St. Mary’s Medical Center
Work highlights
- Represented the City of New York in the creation of a landmark loan fund to support safety-net hospitals throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Represented Humana in its acquisition of Kindred at Home.
- Representing Dignity Health in a suit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union relating to binding ethical and religious directives for Catholic health care.
Industry focus > Healthcare: service providers Tier 2
Focused on regulatory and litigation services, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP has continued to provide advice to both private and state healthcare providers. Its advice to government agencies has been particularly noteworthy, with team head William Bernstein advising the state of New York on the establishment of a Covid-19 safety fund, and Anne Karl advising the State of Vermont on Medicaid restructuring. The team has also been involved with key litigations, with Los Angeles' Barry Landsberg acting on behalf of Dignity Health in state and federal courts. Other key names include regulatory leader Cindy Mann in Washington DC, LA-based litigation team head Greg Pimstone and transactional expert Paul Carr-Rollitt. DC-based regulatory advisors Brian Bewley and Blair Cantfil joined from Goodwin and Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP respectively.Practice head(s):
William Bernstein
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Deep knowledge and insight of the legal and regulatory framework applied to the healthcare sector. The firm’s partners are able to provide a mix of practical, “hands on” guidance blended with sophisticated legal acumen.’
‘The partners with whom I have worked provide extraordinary customer service. They make efforts to learn and understand the client’s business and mission, and they appreciate how the particular legal matter fits into that bigger picture.’
‘Manatt has deep expertise in the issues impacting health care providers, as well as deep connections across the nation that allow them to provide really meaningful support. Additionally, the people that have worked on our issues have a deep and long-standing background in the issues we face, as well as commitment to equitable care. They are not only expert and connected but are creative in thinking through approaches to issues and pushing use.’
‘The people we have worked with at Manatt are incredibly expert in their issue areas, as well as dedicated and wonderful to work with. They always go the extra mile to ensure that our health centers have what they need and understand the policy and legal landscape. They are wonderful to work with.’
‘Manatt’s depth in Healthcare is impressive. Beyond the expertise the firm offers in policy, legislation, regulation and business configuration, they are truly partners (no pun intended) in developing a vision for a better way to engage with the client’s constituents (lawmakers, policymakers, regulators). This benefit is unique in my experience.’
‘The individual contributors at Manatt demonstrate many skills beyond the customary offerings of a large law firm particularly as it relates to individual attention. As a healthcare provider, my experience with Manatt is that they provide support in navigating the expertise and services they offer. Such attention to detail is refreshing and reassuring.’
Key clients
City of New York
Humana
Vermont Agency of Human Services
SBH Health System
Tufts Health Plan
Dignity Health
Kaiser Foundation Health Plan
Canopy Health
Health Net
Blue Shield of California
California Department of Health Care Services
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Wyoming Medical Center
Alliance of Dedicated Cancer Centers
Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Children’s Hospital Association
Legion Healthcare Partners
Connecticut Health Foundation
Maine Department of Health and Human Services
Catholic Health Association of the United States
AARP
MultiCare Health System
Yale New Haven Health System
Oregon Health Authority/Department of Justice
Adirondack Health Institute
Medisys Health Network
Velano Vascular
Astiva Health
Brandman Health Plan
THT Health
St. Mary’s Medical Center
City of New York
Humana
Vermont Agency of Human Services
SBH Health System
Tufts Health Plan
Dignity Health
Kaiser Foundation Health Plan
Canopy Health
Health Net
Blue Shield of California
California Department of Health Care Services
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Wyoming Medical Center
Alliance of Dedicated Cancer Centers
Center on Budget and Policy Priorities
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Children’s Hospital Association
Legion Healthcare Partners
Connecticut Health Foundation
Maine Department of Health and Human Services
Catholic Health Association of the United States
AARP
MultiCare Health System
Yale New Haven Health System
Oregon Health Authority/Department of Justice
Adirondack Health Institute
Medisys Health Network
Velano Vascular
Astiva Health
Brandman Health Plan
THT Health
St. Mary’s Medical Center
Work highlights
- Represented the City of New York in the structuring and negotiating of a landmark loan fund to support safety net hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Advised Humana in its acquisition of 100% of Kindred at Home.
- Representing Dignity Health in a suit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union relating to elective sterilization procedures.
M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: middle-market (sub-$500m) Tier 2
Fielding a team with a presence in New York, Washington DC, Orange Country, LA and San Francisco, the practice at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP is led by Thomas Poletti; he is principally active within the technology, manufacturing, financial services and biotechnology sectors. The wider team is also accomplished within the media and entertainment, retail and healthcare fields. Found among the workload are M&A, joint venture, contract negotiation, divestiture, restructurings, buyout transactions and SPACs, among other mandates.Practice head(s):
Thomas Poletti
Other key lawyers:
Scott Schwartz; Craig Miller; Veronica Lah
Testimonials
‘A team I’ve been in the trenches with on some very difficult deals with super complex capital structures, agreements among note holders, etc. Always, calm, professional and urgent – they make you feel like a first priority. Younger team, but ballers.’
‘Veronica Lah is a rising star in LA and should be known more. Super smart, efficient and calm.’
Key clients
American River Bankshares
Bertelsmann Printing Group
BMG Rights Management
CVB Financial Corp.
Digital Brands Group, Inc.
Eurostar
Friendly Hills Bank
Mann+Hummel
Mullen Technologies
Northern California National Bank
Porch Group, Inc.
QAD Inc.
Rouse Services
Valley National Bank
Work highlights
- Represented Porch Group (Porch) in its acquisition of Floify, a digital mortgage automation and point-of-sale software company, for a combination of $76.5m in cash and $10m in Porch Group common stock.
- Represented QAD Inc., a provider of next-generation manufacturing and supply chain solutions in the cloud, in its $2bn acquisition by software investment firm Thoma Bravo.
Media, technology and telecoms > Advertising and marketing: transactional and regulatory Tier 2
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP has a solid reputation as an advertising advisor. Mainly addressing the needs of brands, including entertainment studios and technology companies, the team provides advice in relation to innovative matters. Recent highlights include assisting the Digital Gaming Corporation with the launch of its international online sportsbook and gambling brand and a marketing law project for the biometric identification verification company CLEAR. Alongside digital, technology, and entertainment, the firm also benefits from the interaction with an industry-specific healthcare group. Christine Reilly leads the group in Los Angeles. In New York, Jeffrey Edelstein stands out for being ‘always eager to help, find out-of-box solutions and anticipates clients’ needs’. LA's Jesse Brody is described as ‘absolutely brilliant' with an 'encyclopedic knowledge of advertising laws and regulations’. New York-based Po Yi and Eric Bergner were also praised by clients.Practice head(s):
Christine Reilly
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is thorough, efficient and up-to-date on regulatory compliance.’
‘Jeffrey Edelstein stands out. He is always eager to help, find out-of-box solutions and anticipates client’s needs. It does not get better than that.’
‘This practice is absolutely outstanding in that it has attorneys who are always up to speed on the latest in technological innovation and can advise clients across a wide spectrum of issues/topics. It really is amazing, but the team can help out with just about anything and everything we send their way. The team is easy to work with, always available, and very quick to turn around deliverables.’
‘Jesse Brody is absolutely brilliant. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of advertising laws and regulations, is an unbelievable negotiator, and is always available (even though we are a very small client). He is organized, punctual, and probably the most efficient attorney one can work with. Jesse is also very honest and balanced, and we always feel that we are getting the best advice out there and that we have someone on our side.’
‘Eric Bergner and Po Yi provide expertise, responsiveness, business-practical advice, genuine care/concern for the client’s business, short and long term.’
Key clients
ASICS America Corporation
CLEAR
DICK’S Sporting Goods
Digital Gaming Corporation
Meta (previously known as Facebook, Inc., and Facebook Technologies, LLC)
FanDuel
Kia America, Inc.
Samsung Electronics America, Inc.
Volkswagen/Audi
Warner Bros. Entertainment
Work highlights
- Represented DICK’S Sporting Goods as its go-to counsel on a variety of advertising and entertainment-related matters, including its first-ever multiyear sponsorship of the Women’s National Basketball Association.
- Advised Kia America, Inc. on a number of key advertising projects, including negotiating its agreement with the Television Academy as the official automotive sponsor for the 2021 Emmy® Awards.
- Advised Samsung Electronics America, Inc. on a variety of advertising and commercial/digital transactions matters, including its partnerships with Google and Amazon to fully integrate Google Assistant and Alexa (respectively) into its smart TVs.
Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: litigation Tier 2
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP represents key players in music and film, including the three major record labels, famous artists like Steve Mac, and Miramax, LLC. The practice is led from out Los Angeles by Robert Jacobs, who regularly represents both the talent and the corporate side of the industries. In a recent highlight, he represented BMG Rights Management (US) LLC in a lawsuit against South African musical group Die Antwoord. The firm also represented Caryn and Mike Borland against David Wood Enterprises in a civil action. In the firm’s New York office, Prana Topper handles a wide variety of matters including contracts, royalties, and copyright and she has worked alongside Jacobs in the BMG case. The practice has significantly bolstered its strength in Los Angeles with the October 2021 hire of counsel Sarah Moses from Kendall Brill & Kelly, who extends the team’s scope with her work pertaining to fashion and influencer agencies. Additionally, Nathaniel Bach joined the Los Angeles office in January 2022 from Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, deepening the breath of the practice through his experience in music, film, and First Amendment matters.Practice head(s):
Robert Jacobs
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Robert Jacobs allows this firm to thrive. He is simply the best partner to have when confronting litigation in this sector. He is able to staff matters appropriately and manage expectations.’
‘Robert Jacobs.’
Key clients
BMG Rights Management (US) LLC
CBS Broadcasting
Christopher Comstock (p/k/a Marshmello), Bastille, and Steve Mac
EMI April Music
Miramax, LLC
Revolution Studios and Revolution Production Services, Inc.
Roger Hodgson
Sony Music Publishing
UMG Recordings
Universal Music Group
Warner Music Group
Work highlights
- Represented Christoper Comstock (aka Marshmello) in a copyright infringement lawsuit in which the court granted summary judgment motions in full, concluding the case in a complete victory for defendants.
- Represented Tracy Chapman in a federal court action claiming copyright infringement over the use of Tracy Chapman’s copyrighted music and lyrics in a Nicki Minaj song.
- Represented leading independent film studio Revolution Studios and Revolution Production Services, Inc., in a breach of contract and profit participation case filed by film producer George Zakk seeking producer credits and fees including profit participation for work on xXx: Return of Xander Cage and all future “xXx” films, starring Vin Diesel.
Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: transactional Tier 2
Experts in talent management matters and content-related transactions, the team at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP, based in Los Angeles, handle deals in film, TV, and digital media as well as music, where the team has a particular proficiency in managing large catalogue acquisitions, for clients like O2 Films, Wavelength Productions, Death Cab for Cutie, and Brian Wilson. The practice is led by Jordan Bromley, a veteran transactional attorney in the music industry who focuses his expertise on representing artists and talent management companies. Sophia Yen is a specialist in production development deals, financings, and joint venture transactions who in a recent highlight represented Majordmo Media, LLC in its deal with Hulu and Vox Media. On the talent management side, Eric Custer guides high-profile individuals through complex transactions, including the sale of song catalogues. The firm has recently seen two departures, with Lindsay Conner and Charles J. Biederman leaving the firm.Practice head(s):
Jordan Bromley
Other key lawyers:
Sophia Yen; Gary L. Gilbert; L. Lee Phillips; Eric Custer; W. Beau Stapleton
Testimonials
‘The team we work with at Manatt is well experienced in the entertainment industry, which is the area of my business. Having long-time experience and knowledge is key, of course.’
‘Lee Phillips, who I with, has the vast experience and knowledge to tackle the complex issues that confront him-profile musical artists, like the ones I manage.’
‘The Manatt team of lawyers are some of the most capable, thorough and dedicated team we have met. I am also very appreciative of their commitment to diversity – as it seems a very deliberate effort has been made to include folks from different backgrounds and perspectives across of all of the practice areas we’ve engaged with.’
‘We hustle hard at my company – it’s a fast-paced environment and Manatt – especially their relationship lead Sophia Lin, is one of the hardest working teams we’ve ever engaged with. She and her team have gone above and beyond to meet impossible deadlines for complex matters – they feel like a real extension of our team.’
‘Jordan Bromley is a standout lawyer in the music business. Smart, responsive, thoughtful, solves problems, gets things quickly, obtains the best outcomes.’
‘Because of the great knowledge Sophia has in this arena, the ability to quickly source additional support when there are models departing from the standard, and the ability to contextualize every element of risk but also support investors determining their risk tolerance and therefore the contracts and negotiation practices that accompany each specific person she reps that sets them up to have strong relationships with filmmakers, move into contract efficiently but fully understanding the terms, and setting up a path for success.’
‘Their attention to detail, client needs and strategy are unmatched.’
‘Jordan Bromley is the best attorney and partner any client could ever ask for in this business.’
Key clients
Dundee Partners
Burt Bacharach
Death Cab for Cutie
Diplo
Miles Davis Properties, LLC
Styx
Entertainment One
Wasserman
O2 Filmes
Wavelength Productions
Kast Media
Work highlights
- Represented Dundee Partners in its $1.1bn acquisition of Kobalt Capital Limited’s music rights portfolio.
- Represented Wasserman in its acquisition of Paradigm Talent Agency’s North American live music representation business and the launch of Wasserman Music.
- Represented renowned graffiti artist David Choe with the sale of The Choe Show to FX Network.
Real estate > Land use/zoning Tier 2
The ‘incredibly intelligent and politically savvy‘ practice at Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP is a significant player in the California market, with representatives in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Francisco and Sacramento. ‘Incredibly talented‘ practice head Victor De La Cruz coordinates the group from LA and has experience facilitating the approval and development of a wide variety of headline projects in Southern California. In Orange County, Susan Hori has ‘tremendous experience in all sorts of projects‘ and focuses on obtaining entitlements for landowners and developers, including local land use approvals, CEQA compliance, and state and federal regulatory agency permits for real estate development projects. The names to note in San Francisco are Sigrid Waggener, who has particular skill in energy projects, and David Smith, who is frequently engaged in entitlement and permitting matters for contentious projects.Practice head(s):
Victor De la Cruz
Other key lawyers:
Susan Hori; David Smith; Sigrid Waggener; Jennifer Lynch
Testimonials
‘The Manatt, Phelps & Phillips Land use/zoning team lead by Susan Hori has tremendous experience in all sorts of projects in every phase of your project from DD to operations. Not only is their knowledge second to none, Susan’s reputation is exemplary among both the private and public sides of development. In addition to the deep bench and breadth of expertise, Manatt comes in as a reasonable expense that wont upend your project from relying on them along the entire project.’
‘Susan Hori’s tactful approach and experience enables you to walk a fine line of keeping all sides of a project amicable and still maintaining schedule and budget goals. Susan is always reachable to address urgent project needs and is able to support in many facets outside of what you would expect.’
‘I appreciate the level of personal attention attention provided to their clients. Our questions, concerns, issues, etc are always addressed in a timely and thoughtful manner. The team is incredibly intelligent and politically savvy, which is important when working on land use issues with city councils and other government entities.’
‘Victor De La Cruz is the partner we have worked with consistently on land use issues, and he is incredibly talented, knowledgeable, and also just a kind and pleasant person. It makes a difference to actually like the attorneys you work with!’
Key clients
Aera Energy
Athens Services
California Capital and Investment Group (CCIG)
CapRock Partners
Cargill, Inc.
Joseph Horacek and John Bedrosian
Lyon Living/Synergy Oil & Gas
Mount Saint Mary’s University
Poseidon Water LLC
Trumark Homes
Work highlights
- Representing Poseidon Water in obtaining approval from the California Coastal Commission and the US Army Corps of Engineers to develop a seawater desalination plant to be located in Huntington Beach, California.
- Advising Cargill on critical issues surrounding potential future uses and/or conservation of the Redwood City Saltworks industrial facility.
- Representing Mount Saint Mary’s University on its controversial Wellness Pavilion development project.
Intellectual property > Copyright Tier 3
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP utilizes the bench strength of its national network to specialize in representing clients in music and entertainment involved in high-value, high-stakes copyright litigation. The practice ‘s portfolio also spans the consumer products, automotive, health, digital media and education sectors. Michelle Cooke heads the team, assisting major copyright holders with the protection and monetization of their property nationally, abroad and online. Robert Jacobs, who leads the firm’s entertainment litigation practice, acts in high-profile disputes on behalf of music publishers, record labels, film studios and talent agencies. The team is supported by senior associate and branding specialist Jessica A. Wood. All lawyers mentioned work in the Los Angeles office.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Top-flight team under Robert Jacobs guidance can be organized and deployed based on the client’s needs. Robert neither over-staffs nor under-staffs. His expertise is second to none.’
‘Robert is an absolute expert is his field. He can call upon real world experience to manage expectations, guide strategy and execute.’
Key clients
Chef Bobo Brand
CliniComp International, Inc.
Credit One Financial
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Eurostar, Inc., d/b/a WSS
LivOn Laboratories, Inc.
Marshmello
Mount Sinai Health System
Passionflix, Inc.
Public Media Group of Southern California
Work highlights
- Advised Eurostar on all IP due diligence involved in Foot Locker’s $750m acquisition of Eurostar as well as several trademark disputes.
- Represented Christopher Comstock p/k/a Marshmello as lead defense counsel in a copyright infringement lawsuit.
- Representing the parent company of two film production companies in a trademark infringment lawsuit.
Labor and employment > Labor and employment disputes (including collective actions): defense Tier 3
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP offers a diverse range of services in the labor and employment space, dealing with complex class actions and single-plaintiff litigation. With a presence on both coasts, it acts for national and international companies from the TMT, financial services and healthcare sectors. The team is led by Los Angeles-based Esra Hudson, a high-stakes litigator with experience in wage and hour class and collective actions. Andrew Satenberg, who is also in LA, is noted for his track record when representing clients in the retail industry, while San Francisco-based Sharon Bauman advises management on discrimination, harassment and discharge issues. Deborah Kelly, who divides her time between Washington DC and New York, is also regarded for her work on retaliation matters.Practice head(s):
Esra Hudson
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Manatt is a well known national law firm with a diverse commercial practice. They are committed to diversity which is of big importance to us.’
‘Their lawyers are top notch and the firm has a strong bench.’
‘We work with Esra Hudson, who has provided us with excellent counsel in a difficult litigation matter involving corporate as well as labor law. She has provided practical, actionable strategies that have allowed us to put up an effective defense.’
‘Having seen Esra Hudson in action, I can say she is incredibly well prepared and will strategically build up a case before entrapping the other side in their own testimony.’
‘We are incredibly satisfied with the service we have received.’
‘Deborah Kelly and her team provide fast, practical advice that always reflects thoughtful judgment and assessment of risk. She makes herself available when you need her and approaches each matter with common sense and a very personal touch.’
Key clients
Del Taco LLC
H&M
American Multi-Cinema, Inc.
Blue Shield of California
Activision Blizzard, Inc and Blizzard Entertainment, Inc.
National Association of Chain Drug Stores
United Nations Foundation
Work highlights
- Represented Blue Shield of California in several putative class actions and PAGA actions alleging wage-and-hour claims.
- Counseled and represented Activision Blizzard and Blizzard Entertainment in employment matters.
- Defending Del Taco in state-wide class action regarding meal and rest periods and overtime payments.
Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection) Tier 3
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP‘s strengths lie in the corporate data and legal and operational risk space. The offering spans from proactive and reactive cybersecurity to data privacy matters across all sectors but focusing on technology, finance and healthcare. Donna Wilson in Los Angeles and Scott Lashway in Boston co-lead the department. Wilson is appreciated for her crisis management and business strategy skills. Lashway handles privacy and data security-related disputes and incident response investigations. Orange County-based Brandon Reilly and Washington DC's Kaylee Cox Bankston are highlighted.Practice head(s):
Donna Wilson; Scott Lashway
Testimonials
‘The team provides practical advice along with spot-on legal advice.’
‘Besides being responsive, generous with his time and a joy to work with, Scott Lashway has a unique specialty re privacy and cybersecurity.’
Key clients
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital
Benefis Health System, Inc.
CVS Health Corporation
Luna Grill Restaurants
Shopify
BMO Harris Bank, N.A.
MassMutual Financial Group
New York eHealth Collaborative
Work highlights
- Represented Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago in Jane Doe and Baby Doe v. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.
- Representing BMO Harris Bank, N.A., in a single plaintiff action involving allegations that senior bank employees accessed and transferred data without authorization in connection with personal matters.
- Representing the New York eHealth Collaborative (NYeC), a non-profit that helps govern public health information exchanges in New York State, regarding policies and procedures, and compliance with new regulatory requirements, such as the federal information blocking rules.
Industry focus > Cannabis Tier 4
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP provides cannabis industry clients with a multidisciplinary team that brings together expertise in the fields of finance, joint ventures, equity investments, financial services, government relations, tax, IP and regulatory compliance. Los Angeles-based Anita Famili Sabine leads the team and her broad work in the sector includes advising on regulatory compliance and licensing, joint venture formations, celebrity licensing deals, farm and dispensary acquisitions, and environmental issues such as California Prop 65.Practice head(s):
Anita Famili Sabine
Key clients
A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners
American News Company
Ceres Acquisition Corp.
MedMen Enterprises
Work highlights
- Advised Ceres Acquisition Corp., a special purpose acquisition corporation (SPAC), in connection with an over-subscribed private investment in public equity (PIPE) of US$225 million and its proposed business combination with Parallel Inc.
- Advised a confidential group of lenders in providing a $50 million, three-year secured revolving credit facility to leading national medical and wellness cannabis operator Curaleaf Holdings, Inc.
- Representing American News Company in regulatory and advertising advice on a 50- state basis, negotiation of supply agreements with manufacturers, and evaluating operational and warehousing limitations on a state-by-state basis.
Industry focus > Environment: regulatory Tier 4
Though based in New York and California, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP offers nationwide coverage, and is regularly retained to guide private, non-profit and public sector entities through complex environmental compliance concerns across the US and internationally. The practice frequently counsels on state and federal proposed environmental regulations affecting the handling of pharmaceuticals, biomedical waste and recycled materials, and demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of forever chemicals and emerging contaminants. The team is also a solid performer in brownfield cleanup and redevelopment matters, coordinating all facets of site remediation and return of properties to productive use. Leading the department is Craig Moyer in Los Angeles, who provides advice in the fields of crisis management, permitting challenges, and enforcement actions defense. Also in LA, Peter Duchesneau acts for clients in regulatory compliance and administrative proceedings, covering the full spectrum of federal and state environmental statutes. Individuals to note in New York include Ted Wolff, whose areas of expertise include enforcement and administrative actions across the nation, and Matthew Dombroski, who advises on environmental matters arising under the Clean Water Act, CERCLA and RCRA.Practice head(s):
Craig Moyer
Other key lawyers:
Ted Wolff; Peter Duchesneau; Matthew Dombroski; Matthew Williamson
Testimonials
‘The Manatt team have their finger on the pulse of the California environmental regulatory as well as anyone. Their insight is invaluable. I appreciate their reasoned and creative approach to solving complex regulatory issues in California.’
‘It’s a privilege to work with Matt Williamson. He knows both my company’s operations and the relevant regulatory implications inside and out. He’s a valuable member of our team.’
‘Mannatt assisted my company in a complex environmental regulatory issue. They successfully resolved the issue and provided excellent advice and counsel.’
‘Both Ted Wolff and Matt Williamson had experience in retail hazardous waste environmental matters and leveraged their experience to provide exceptional advice. They communicated effectively to both the client as well as opposing counsel. I would recommend them to other retail companies who need environmental assistance, particularly in California.’
Key clients
CalNRG (formerly Eagle Petroleum)
g2 Revolution, LLC
GATX Corp.
J.P. Wank Industrial Real Estate
Work highlights
- Represented GATX Corp. for many years in connection with a wide variety of environmental matters ranging from complex remediation issues to enforcement matters.
- The firm’s work for g2 Revolution, LLC regularly involves interfacing on the company’s behalf with local and state regulators, company vendors and customers, all in connection with negotiating agreements and assuring environmental compliance.
Media, technology and telecoms > Fintech Tier 4
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP has a ‘very responsive‘ team whose partners are ‘experts in their fields and have strong networks and relationships with relevant regulators and legislators‘. The firm represents a good mix of banks and financial institutions, as well as start-up and emerging fintech companies. The expanding practice has been actively building the regulatory and enforcement side of the practice, including the recruitment of Chicago partner Bryan Schneider from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Further experience is provided on transactional and strategic commercial issues, including advice on blockchain and cryptocurrency matters, such as NFTs, tokenization and decentralized finance. New York corporate finance partner Brian Korn leads the highly rated team, which includes Los Angeles-based regulatory and compliance partner Scott Pearson (‘an amazing partner to work with‘).Practice head(s):
Brian Korn
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Manatt is very responsive, partners are experts in their fields and have strong networks and relationships with relevant regulators and legislators. I appreciate the early alerts sent directly from the partners when relevant changes in law arise, as this supports my agility with business partners.’
‘Scott Pearson has consistently been an amazing partner to work with; he understands the issues that my company’s industry is most focused on, he regularly reaches out to maintain a strong relationship and he is a trusted advocate.’
Key clients
Advantage Insurance
Centrifuge
Cross River Bank
Idea Financial
Lidya Holdings
Market Rebellion LLC
Percent Technologies (formerly known as Cadence Group,)
Pier Asset Management
YieldStreet
York Capital Management
Work highlights
- Outside counsel to Cross River Bank on regulatory compliance and bank partnership issues – including state licensing and CFPB, FDIC, and other regulatory agency compliance – in connection with its online lending platforms.
- Represented Advantage Insurance, an insurance provider specializing in private placement life insurance and captive insurance management services, in its acquisition of BasePoint Capital Group, a leading lender for the fintech industry.
- Representing YieldStreet, an online platform that offers investors access to alternative investments, in multiple offerings of specialty finance products including investment funds, fund of funds, and private equity and structured note conduits.
Real estate Tier 4
Largely focused on the Californian real estate market with the Los Angeles team, headed by Anita Famili Sabine and the Silicon Valley practice, led by Michael Polentz, Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP‘ bi-coastal practice is also supported by its New York office, where Ted Hunter focuses on the Manhattan and New Jersey market. The nationwide practice handles all manner of acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures, financings, developments and leasing matters.Practice head(s):
Anita Famili Sabine; Michael Polentz
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Their strength is that at least one partner has a broad range of knowledge about the real estate space, including transactional and regulatory aspects of it.’
Key clients
Avanath Capital Management
HG Vora Capital Management LLC
Jay Paul Company
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
Lowe
Meta (fka Facebook)
Pacific Equity Properties, Inc.
PBF Energy
The Macerich Company
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (fka Westfield)
Urban Catalyst
Work highlights
- Advised the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in its plans to design and construct its new main museum campus, largely designed by renowned Swiss architect Peter Zumthor.
- Advised Jay Paul Company in its $62 million purchase of 1011 and 1017 Springdale Road, two parcels of undeveloped land (30 acres in the aggregate) in Austin, Texas.
- Advised PBF Energy, one of the largest independent petroleum refiners and suppliers of transportation fuels, heating oil and other petroleum products, on its ground leasing of approximately 60 acres in Torrance, California.
Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 5
The California-based Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP advises clients from the financial services, transport, healthcare, entertainment/media, real estate, retail, and manufacturing industries on dispute resolution matters. The group takes on litigation and arbitration matters. Recent work included the defense of Mattel and Fisher-Price in numerous putative class actions filed across the United States relating to its Rock ‘n Play Sleeper product for infants. The Los Angeles-based Ronald Turovsky leads the practice. Barry Lee in San Francisco and Emil Petrossian, also in LA, are other key contacts.Practice head(s):
Ronald Turovsky
Other key lawyers:
Barry Lee; Emil Petrossian; Christine Reilly; Joanna Allen
Key clients
Mattel, Inc., and Fisher-Price, Inc.
Stevens Transport, Inc.
Blue Shield of California
M. Arthur Gensler Jr. & Associates, Inc.
Health Net, Inc., Health Net Life Insurance Company, Health Net of California, and Managed Health Network
Christopher Comstock p/k/a Marshmello
Premier Food Concepts LLC d/b/a Luna Grill Restaurants
Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals
Work highlights
- Defended Mattel and Fisher-Price in numerous class actions filed across the United States relating to its popular Rock ‘n Play Sleeper product for infants.
- Defending Health Net in a dispute with out-of-network substance abuse treatment centers regarding reimbursement for services.
- Served as lead defense counsel for Christopher Comstock p/k/a Marshmello in a copyright infringement lawsuit in which the court granted summary judgment motions in full, concluding the case in a complete victory for the defendants.
Manatt, Phelps & Phillips, LLP > Firm Profile
Manatt is a multidisciplinary, integrated national professional services firm known for quality and an extraordinary commitment to clients. The firm is keenly focused on specific industry sectors, providing legal and consulting capabilities at the very highest levels to achieve clients’ business objectives.
Manatt’s groundbreaking approach – bringing together legal services, advocacy and business strategy – differentiates the firm from its competitors and positions it to provide a unique and compelling value proposition. Manatt strives to be essential to all clients.
From the firm’s roots in banking, entertainment and government, clients are from industries as diverse as healthcare, financial services, media, technology, retail and consumer products, real estate, and energy. Manatt’s practice mix and deep understanding of the industries that drive the US and global economies benefit clients as it resolves complex and potentially enterprise-threatening disputes, helps finance their operations and expand their businesses, and navigates the maze of law and regulation governing virtually all commercial activity.
Manatt’s strong presence in America’s most important business markets enables the firm to address and exceed client expectations. The largest offices are strategically located in Los Angeles, New York, Palo Alto, San Francisco, Orange County, Chicago, Boston and Washington, DC. Other offices in Sacramento and Albany – the capitals of California and New York – provide connections to government decision-makers and to solutions that are unavailable from competitors.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Cross Industry Legal Services | Sharon Bauman | sbauman@manatt.com | 415-291-7425 |
Digital and Technology | Lisa Suennen | lsuennen@manatt.com | 415-291-7418 |
Energy, Environmental & Real Estate | Michael Polentz | mpolentz@manatt.com | 650-251-1440 |
Entertainment | Lindsay Conner | lconner@manatt.com | 310-312-4229 |
Financial Services | Craig Miller | cmiller@manatt.com | 415-291-7415 |
Health | William Bernstein | wbernstein@manatt.com | 212-830-7282 |
Staff Figures
Number of Partners : 186 Number of Other Fee-Earners : 229 Total Staff : 352Other
Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner : Donna Wilson- Industry focus > Healthcare: health insurers
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Industry focus > Healthcare: service providers
- M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: middle-market (sub-$500m)
- Media, technology and telecoms > Advertising and marketing: transactional and regulatory
- Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: litigation
- Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: transactional
- Real estate > Land use/zoning
Firm Rankings
- Intellectual property > Copyright
- Labor and employment > Labor and employment disputes (including collective actions): defense
- Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection)