Ropes & Gray LLP > East Palo Alto, United States > Firm Profile
Ropes & Gray LLP Offices

1900 UNIVERSITY AVENUE
EAST PALO ALTO, CA 94303
CALIFORNIA
United States
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Ropes & Gray LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Dispute resolution > E-discovery Tier 1
Ropes & Gray LLP operates a cross-office team of enforcement and e-discovery attorneys, offering comprehensive support throughout the discovery process for high-stakes matters. In Boston, Shannon Capone Kirk is the global head of advanced e-discovery and AI strategy, leading discovery strategy for litigation, investigations and data cyber security cases. Emily Cobb is skilled in developing and refining internal e-discovery workflows for clients to improve defensibility and efficiency. Also stationed in New York is Meghan Gilligan Palmero, an experienced litigator with long-standing experience handling complex investigations and enforcement matters. Xueguang Sun manages document review projects and consults on preservation and collection-related issues from the same office.Practice head(s):
Shannon Capone Kirk
Other key lawyers:
Emily Cobb; Meghan Gilligan Palermo; Xueguang Sun; Danielle Davidson
Key clients
Walgreen Co.
Walgreen Boots Alliance
Deutsche Bank AG
Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas
Legends Hospitality LLC
Work highlights
Finance > Commercial lending Tier 1
Well-regarded for its capabilities in leveraged finance transactions, Ropes & Gray LLP is a key port of call for domestic and international private equity entities. The firm is also noted for its experience in a breadth of fund financing transactions, distressed investments, and liability management transactions. Operating out of Boston, Michael Lee is a strong choice for private equity sponsors on high-yield bond issuances, bridge facilities, syndicated credit facilities, and ABL facilities. Located in New York, Leonard Klingbaum is knowledgeable of an array of capital solutions, insolvencies, as well as direct lending, high-yield, and mezzanine transactions. Also based in New York, Stefanie Birkmann is often engaged in leveraged acquisition finance and recapitalizations, she is also skilled at debt restructuring and asset-based loans. Boston-based Byung ChoiPractice head(s):
Michael Lee; Leonard Klingbaum; Stefanie Birkmann
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Integrity Marketing Group
Genstar Capital
Surgery Partners
USICCreative Artists Agency
The Vistria Group
Advent International
Frontier Communications
M2S Group
HealthComp
Tecomet
American Industrial Partners
Work highlights
Healthcare > Life sciences Tier 1
Ropes & Gray LLP supports key life sciences businesses on transactional, regulatory, litigation, and enforcement matters at every stage of the product development cycle. The firm has a strong corporate and commercial practice, with work across licensing and agreement collaborations, capital markets transactions, and M&A, among others; the latter is evidenced by its representation of ImmunoGen in its $10.1bn sale to AbbVie, completed in February 2024. The team is experienced in IP matters, including Hatch-Waxman litigation and due diligence of patent portfolios, while also supporting emerging companies and working on novel digital health issues. The practice is headed by Washington DC’s Kellie Combs, who specializes in FDA regulatory matters as well as the Public Health Service Act, and commercial transactions and strategic investments expert Michael Beauvais, based in Boston. Other key individuals in the team include DC’s Gregory LevinePractice head(s):
Kellie Combs; Michael Beauvais
Other key lawyers:
Gregory Levine; David McIntosh; Chris Comeau; Megan Baca; Hannah England; Matt Byron; Josh Oyster; Sarah Blankstein; Rebecca Williams
Key clients
Pfizer Inc.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals
Takeda Pharmaceuticals
Karl Storz
Becton, Dickinson and Company
Novavax, Inc.
Chiesi USA, Inc.
National Organization for Rare Disorders
Medical Information Working Group
Bain Capital
ImmunoGen, Inc.
Sarepta Therapeutics
Cardinal Health, Inc.
Work highlights
- Represented ImmunoGen in its $10.1 billion sale to AbbVie.
- Advised Sarepta Therapeutics in a transformational global licensing and collaboration agreement with Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, valued up to approximately $11.375 billion.
- Represented Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) in a definitive agreement to acquire Edwards Lifesciences’ Critical Care product group for $4.2 billion in cash.
Healthcare > Service providers Tier 1
Jointly leading the team at Ropes & Gray LLP from Chicago and Boston respectively are Deborah Gersh and Timothy McCrystal. On the contentious side, the practice is well-equipped to handle federal reimbursement disputes, particularly in relation to psychiatric care, while the non-contentious side of the practice advises on major health plan and hospital acquisitions. Gersh is a key name for value-based care initiatives and all matters relating to HIPAA, in addition to acting in qui tam actions, while McCrystal utilizes his longstanding experience to advise on issues relating to hospital-physician relationships, the establishment of health systems, and regulatory telehealth matters. In the Washington DC office, Stephanie Webster is an expert in disputes concerning government agency actions on both a state and federal level, drawing on her prior expertise at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to represent health systems and hospitals alike. Chicago’s Jennifer Romig is a key contact for M&A and affiliations within the digital health and healthcare spaces, in addition to handling state privacy and HIPAA-related data privacy work. Sarah Blumenthal routinely assists managed care organizations and provider networks with corporate governance-related issues and third-party payment matters from the New York office. David Peloquin is a key name for all matters relating to clinical research.Practice head(s):
Deborah Gersh; Timothy McCrystal
Other key lawyers:
Stephanie Webster; Stephen Warnke; Jennifer Romig; Adrianne Ortega; Harry Richards; Sarah Blumenthal; Torrey McClary; Ranee Adipat; David Peloquin
Industry focus > Education Tier 1
Ropes & Gray LLP‘s education practice has particular strengths in corporate and finance matters from endowments and student aid to employee benefit programs and charitable giving. The team also stands out for its expertise in academic medicine, research and healthcare, representing academic medical centers in both contentious and non-contentious matters. Practice head Kendi Ozmon specializes in advising universities on the tax aspect of grants, gifts and the commercialization of research. Employee benefits expert Ellen Benson is a go-to for universities developing their employee retirement, health and welfare plans. Mike Mcgrath concentrates his practice on the intersection of healthcare and education, handling public finance, M&A, reorganizations and Title IV issues. All lawyers mentioned are based in Boston.
Investment fund formation and management > Alternative/hedge funds Tier 1
Renowned for its cross-border capabilities, the team Ropes & Gray LLP provide clients with full-service capabilities with regard to fund formation, operational and regulatory matters. With recent developments within the tech sector, the team has adapted its practice to include advice on matters related to cryptocurrency, insider trading issues around alternative data sources, and novel operational issues. The team is co-led by San Francisco and Silicone Valley based Melissa Bender and New York’s Marc Biamonte. Bender’s practice concerns private credit and debt, with particular experience in raising closed-end, open-end, hybrid and evergreen funds while Biamonte assists general partners with fundraising across a diverse range of fund types, including buyout, venture, hedge, and special focus funds. Leigh Fraser , sitting across Boston and New York, has extensive experience assisting with the formation of onshore and offshore open-end and closed-end private funds advises such entities on an ongoing basis with regulatory matters and the structuring of new investment products. Based in New York, Laurel FitzPatrickPractice head(s):
Melissa Bender; Marc Biamonte
Other key lawyers:
Leigh Fraser; Laurel FitzPatrick; Sarah Davidoff; Laura Hirst
Work highlights
Investment fund formation and management > Mutual/registered/exchange-traded funds Tier 1
Ropes & Gray LLP has a diverse workload which often includes matters which involve exchange traded funds, particularly those investing in alternative asset classes. The group also works on mutual fund structuring and the structure of other registered funds, as well as regulatory compliance, advising a high volume of registered funds. The group operates at the forefront of alternative fund formation and alternative investment products, including the formation of private equity and private credit funds and innovative exchange-traded fund products. Leading the team is the experienced trio of Michael Doherty, James Thomas, and Jeremy Smith who are based in New York, and consult leading asset and investment management firms, as well as leading multi-asset investment companies such as Blackstone, and its registered investment companies. Thomas, along with Thomas Hiller in Boston frequently assists exchange traded funds, registered investment companies and other private investment vehicles. Doherty is well-established within the regulatory space, providing regulatory and operational advice to some of the group’s leading funds clients. Bryan Chegwidden, who splits his time between Boston and New York, is key for handling the organisation of a range of alternative investment products, such as hedge funds, private equity funds and funds of funds.Practice head(s):
Michael Doherty; James Thomas; Jeremy Smith
Other key lawyers:
Bryan Chegwidden; Greg Davis; Thomas HIller; Elizabeth Reza
Key clients
Alpha Architect
Affiliated Managers Group (AMG)
Baseline Partners
Blackstone Multi-Asset Investing (BXMA) and its registered investment companies
BondBloxx Investment Management
Brighthouse Funds
Calamos Funds and their Independent Trustees
Cohen & Steers Funds ETFs
DoubleLine Funds & ETFs and their Independent Trustees
Empowered Funds (ETF Architect)
Forum Real Estate Income Fund and their Independent Trustees
Golden Tree Asset Management
Impax Funds
Ironwood (Independent Directors)
Masterworks.io
MFS Funds, ETFs and their Independent Trustees
Natixis and Loomis Sayles Fund Groups and Natixis Global Investment Managers, Loomis Sayles & Company, L.P., and Harris Associates, L.P.
Pacific Investment Management Company (PIMCO)
Pictet Asset Management
Popular Asset Management and the Popular Funds
Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional Tier 1
Ropes & Gray LLP continues to lead in executive compensation and employee benefits, advising on high-profile M&A, private equity transactions, IPOs, and restructurings. The team is a trusted advisor to major private equity sponsors, asset managers, and Fortune 500 companies, providing seamless integration with the firm’s tax, corporate, and finance practices. The firm recently advised National Financial Partners on compensation and benefits aspects of its $13.4bn sale to Aon, showcasing its expertise in cross-border executive compensation and benefits structures. Additionally, the team advised ImmunoGen on its $10.1bn acquisition by AbbVie, highlighting its deep experience in structuring equity-based incentive plans and senior executive arrangements in the life sciences sector. Key figures in the team include Renata Ferrari , based in Boston, a go-to adviser on complex public company executive compensation issues, and Allie Alperovich , based in New York, who frequently counsels private equity firms on equity-based awards and ERISA matters. Also based in Boston, Jennifer Rikoski Whitney is also highly regarded for her work with asset managers and pension funds on regulatory and compliance matters.Practice head(s):
Renata Ferrari; Allie Alperovich
Other key lawyers:
Jennifer Rikoski Whitney; Danna Kivell; Jennifer Cormier
Key clients
TPG Capital N
2 Advent International N
3 Bain Capital N
4 Vertex Pharmaceuticals N
TSG Consumer Partners
The TJX Companies
New York University
Berkshire Partners
Silver Lake Partners
Ginkgo Bioworks
Genstar Capital
Paratek Pharmaceuticals
American Industrial Partners
Invesco Ltd.
iCapital Network
Pacific Investment Management Company
New Mountain Capital
BV Investment Partners
HarbourVest Partners
Work highlights
- Advised National Financial Partners (NFP), a provider of benefits, insurance and wealth management services and a Madison Dearborn Partners portfolio company, in its $13.4 billion sale to Aon (NYSE: AON), a global professional services firm.
- Represented ImmunoGen on executive compensation and benefits matters in its $10.1 billion sale to AbbVie, which will acquire ImmunoGen, and its flagship cancer therapy ELAHERE.
- Represented National Amusements in the headline-grabbing proposed sale of control of Paramount Global to affiliates of Skydance Media in connection with a broader transaction in which Paramount Global and Skydance Media propose to merge, forming “New Paramount.”
Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense
Ropes & Gray LLP offers in-depth expertise in high-stakes matters such as anti-money laundering (AML), antitrust, False Claims Act (FCA), Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), and more. The firm represents clients in investigations by major authorities, including the DOJ, SEC, and other regulatory bodies. James Dowden, co-leader of the firm’s Government Enforcement and White-Collar Criminal Defense department, has broad experience in FCA, anti-corruption, and government enforcement. Michael McGovern is a skilled trial lawyer with expertise in securities fraud, financial fraud, antitrust offenses, and healthcare fraud. Laura Hoey advises healthcare and life sciences clients facing government investigations and congressional inquiries. Alexander H. Rene focuses on corporate compliance and antitrust matters, while Ryan Rohlfsen counsels clients on corruption, fraud, and whistleblower issues. María González Calvet has great experience in multijurisdictional investigations across industries like healthcare, energy, and private equity.Practice head(s):
James P. Dowden, Michael G. McGovern
Other key lawyers:
Alexander H. Rene; Ryan J Rohlfsen; María González Calvet
Work highlights
Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings
Routinely supporting investment banks, private equity sponsors, and multinational companies, Ropes & Gray LLP has vast experience of handling high-value IPOs and complex follow-on offerings. The practice is particularly active across the life sciences, biopharma, and financial services sectors, with the firm’s lawyers being especially well versed in the full range of equity corporate financing transactions. Leading from New York, both Craig Marcus and Paul Tropp specialize in representing both issuers and managers in transactions involving convertible, high-yield, and investment-grade bonds, alongside private placements. From Boston, Paul Kinsella predominantly focuses on securities offerings and governance matters, while in New York, Faiza Rahman is highly knowledgeable on acquisition finance and PIPEs, and Rachel Phillips mainly concentrates on equity and debt securities. Boston’s Thomas Fraser is also highlighted as key for his insight into strategic transactions and joint ventures.Practice head(s):
Craig Marcus; Paul Tropp
Other key lawyers:
Paul Kinsella; Faiza Rahman; Rachel Phillips; Thomas Fraser; Tara Fisher
Key clients
Novavax Inc.
Cullinan Therapeutics Inc.
Foghorn Therapeutics Inc.
LifeStance Health Inc.
Hayward Holdings
Surgery Partners Inc.
iTeos Therapeutics Inc.
TPG Capital LP
American Industrial Partners
Bain Capital LP N
Work highlights
Intellectual property > Patents: licensing Tier 2
Investment fund formation and management > Private equity funds (including venture capital) Tier 2
Ropes & Gray LLP is a practice equipped to handle a range of venture capital work that includes capital raising and fund formation, assisting both investor and sponsor side clients of private funds matters, and assisting with management issues for funds. On the transactional side, the group can be highlighted for its ability to deal with bespoke fund transactions for portfolio investments. On the regulatory side, the group advises an array of private fund managers on their evolving impact and commercial applications. Melissa Bender in San Francisco who works with funds using novel hybrid structures and Marc Biamonte in New York head up the team. Boston-based Peter Laybourn advises on domestic and international fund formations, fundraising, and transactions. Morri Weinberg in New York is also a key name to note.Practice head(s):
Melissa Bender; Marc Biamonte
Other key lawyers:
Lindsey Goldstein; Leigh Fraser; Peter Laybourn; Morri Weinberg; John Ayer
Key clients
Accolade Capital Management
Altimeter Capital Management
B Capital Group
Bain Capital
Breakthrough Energy Ventures
Clearview Capital
Contingency Capital
Cordillera Investment Partners
Cove Hill Partners
Crosspoint Capital
Dragoneer
Gauge Capital
Gridiron Capital
Hamilton Lane
HarbourVest Partners
Index Ventures
Invesco Asset Management
Kohlberg & Company
Limerston Capital
Parthenon Capital
M&A/corporate and commercial > Private equity buyouts: large deals ($500m+) Tier 2
Ropes & Gray LLP provides comprehensive legal counsel to private equity firms, advising on M&A, fund structuring, financing, and regulatory challenges. David Blittner leads the team from New York and is highly experienced in leveraged buyouts, investments, and divestitures for major private equity firms. Julie Jones, who continues to chair the firm from New York and Boston alongside vice-chair and fellow private equity adviser Neill Jakobe, has been a longstanding adviser to TPG, handling acquisitions and investments across multiple sectors. William Shields has recently taken the lead on significant transactions for Bain Capital alongside Charlie Boer in Boston. Boston’s Taylor Hart and Chicago’s Matthew Richards are also noted for their transactional expertise, while Boston’s Michael Lee co-heads the firm’s global finance practice group.Practice head(s):
Paul Blittner
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Advent International
Altamont Capital Partners
American Industrial Partners
Aquiline Capital Partners
Audax Group
Avista Healthcare Partners
Bain Capital
Berkshire Partners
Blackstone
CCMP Capital Advisors
Charlesbank Capital Partners
CIVC Partners
Dragoneer Investment Group
EQT
Francisco Partners
Genstar Capital
GHO Capital Partners
GI Partners
Harvest Partners
H.I.G. Capital
Kohlberg & Co
Lee Equity Partners
New Mountain Capital
Patient Square Capital
Partners Group
Silver Lake
TA Associates
Thomas H Lee Partners
TPG Capital
TSG Consumer Partners
Work highlights
Tax > Not-for-profit (Fortune 1000 private foundations, national trade associations, and charities) Tier 2
Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 2
The non-contentious tax group at Ropes & Gray LLP advises multinational companies, private equity firms, and tax-exempt organizations on tax matters relating to fund formation, real estate, and banking and finance, as well as advising on M&A, restructurings, spin-offs, and joint ventures. The firm also has a strong presence in the pharma industry. Key figures include practice lead Elaine Murphy, advising on cross-border M&A and financing arrangements, international tax compliance matters, and fund formations. David Saltzman has expertise in cross-border capital markets transactions and investments in real estate. Amanda Holt specializes in transactional matters and real estate taxation issues. Kendi Ozmon advises tax-exempt organizations such as universities and healthcare organizations, and Pamela Glazier advises private equity firms on transactions across a variety of industries. Among various promotions to partners, Christopher Roman has joined the firm from Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP, while Lee Allison has departed the firm. All lawyers mentioned are based in Boston.Practice head(s):
Elaine Murphy
Other key lawyers:
Jim Brown; David Saltzman; Amanda Holt; Kendi Ozmon; Kristen Winckler; Scott Pinarchick; Pamela Glazier; Alyssa Kollmeyer; Eric Behl-Remijan; Tristan Evans-Wilent, Samuel Duncan, Franziska Hertel; Brandon Dunn; Christopher Roman
Work highlights
Antitrust > Cartel Tier 3
Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 3
Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings
Finance > Financial services regulation Tier 3
Ropes & Gray LLP’s broker-dealer practice provides regulatory guidance to asset managers and private equity firms, advising on a broad range of compliance and enforcement matters. The team assists clients with broker-dealer formations, registrations, and compliance with SEC and FINRA regulations, as well as representing firms in regulatory examinations and enforcement proceedings. The practice is particularly noted for its experience in advising private equity firms on broker-dealer regulatory matters, helping clients navigate evolving regulatory requirements and operational challenges. The team works closely with clients to develop compliance frameworks and respond to regulatory inquiries. Key figures in the practice include Brynn Rail, who is based in New York, and Eva Carman, the managing partner of the firm’s New York office. Boston-based Jessica Reece is also a core member of the team, supported by Erin Conklin in Chicago and Cole Goodman in Boston. The firm continues to assist financial institutions in addressing regulatory complexities and maintaining compliance in a shifting regulatory landscape.Practice head(s):
Brynn Rail; Eva Carman
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate Tier 3
Ropes & Gray LLP's growing restructuring practice acts for an array of borrower, sponsor and creditor clients in in-court and out-of-court debt restructurings, corporate reorganizations, and liability management transactions for large and middle-market companies. It represented Exactech, a portfolio company of longstanding client TPG Capital, in connection with its Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases. Along with its reputation as a private equity heavyweight, the firm is also noted for creditor engagements, including for ad hoc creditor groups and lenders. New York and Chicago-based Ryan Preston Dahl chairs the business restructuring group and is widely credited with the expansion of the practice, particularly through the firm’s private equity clients. The team also includes senior figures Chris Dickerson in Chicago and Gregg Galardi, with Natasha Hwangpo, Daniel Gwen, Cristine Schwarzman and Matthew Roose also being key figures. Named individuals are based in New York unless stated otherwise.Practice head(s):
Ryan Preston Dahl
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
Government > State attorneys general Tier 3
Ropes & Gray LLP has deep regulatory and enforcement knowledge and thus provides a strong offering in government investigations and litigation, including those levelled by state attorney generals, that often form part of much larger complex investigations involving state regulators and federal enforcement authorities. The team is active in antitrust, privacy and healthcare related matters, including responding to civil investigative demands, AG inquiries and litigation, and strategic engagement. The practice is led by a trio of litigation and enforcement practitioners: Laura Hoey in Chicago and John Bueker in Boston both frequently advise clients in the healthcare sector and handle false claims act (FCA) litigation, while Gregg Weiner in New York has a client roster comprising financial services companies, real estate developers and investors. In Boston, Andrew O’Connor handles a broad range of civil and criminal investigations by the DOJ and state AGs, and James Dowden handles diverse enforcement proceedings in the life sciences, PE and financial services sectors. Amy Kossak joined the firm's Washington D.C. office in April 2024 from the US department of Justice and bolsters the firm’s capabilities in FCA litigation.Practice head(s):
Laura Hoey; John Bueker; Gregg Weiner
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals
Work highlights
- Representing Mallinckrodt, in lawsuits brought by a coalition of state Attorneys’ General against 26 pharmaceutical companies and 10 executives.
Labor and employment > Workplace and employment counseling Tier 3
Ropes & Gray LLP offers advice in employment matters from internal investigations, to those where employment issues have arisen from M&A transactions. Megan Bisk leads the firm’s Boston-based practice and has a particular focus on M&A matters involving both domestic and international companies. Bisk also advises on issues regarding employee discipline, sexual harassment and discrimination. Employment litigator Douglas Brayley has experience representing employers with a variety of issues including workforce reorganizations, whistle-blower allegations and internal investigations. Jennifer Cormier and Stephanie Bruce specialize in corporate transactions and also offer advice on the full spectrum of day-to-day employment and labor issues.Practice head(s):
Megan Bisk
Other key lawyers:
M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: large deals ($1bn+) Tier 3
With illustrated strengths in the pharmaceutical, biotech, and industrial spaces, Ropes & Gray LLP is proficient in comprehensive domestic and global M&A. Boston-based Christopher Comeau oversees the department and concentrates on representing public companies and financial investors in public and private M&A, as well as minority investment deals. In New York, Ariel Deckelbaum represents private equity and asset management firms in spin-offs and joint ventures, Jackie Cohen handles high-profile M&A, carve-outs, and divestitures, and Suni Sreepada focuses on global mandates involving public companies. Boston-based Mike Beauvais is active in the digital health and medical device industries, and covers collaborations, financings, and securities offerings.Practice head(s):
Christopher Comeau
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Nippon Steel Corporation
ImmunoGen Inc
National Amusements Inc.
Solidcore Holdings
The Hershey’s Company
Becton, Dickinson and Company
Eversource Energy
Cardinal Health
Sodiaal
SkillSoft
Summa Equity AB
Bain Capital LP
The Duckhorn Portfolio
M&A/corporate and commercial > Shareholder activism Tier 3
Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection) Tier 3
Real estate Tier 3
The real estate investments and transactions team at Ropes & Gray LLP advises clients on both domestic and global real estate issues. The team is particularly well-known in the market for its broad experience advising top real estate debt funds and public mortgage REITs on various structuring and transactional matters. Utilizing such broad experience, the group advises on acquisitions, joint ventures, funds, and hybrid investments, involving several asset classes. The team is led by Jack Creedon, who represents real estate private equity funds, hedge funds, and REITs, working out of the Boston office. Further support in Boston is provided by Effie George Floyd, who has a depth of experience in negotiating joint ventures and preferred equity arrangements. Real estate transactional partners Daniel Stanco and Sally Davis, both based in New York, are highly regarded for their work in real estate finance and data centers respectively.Practice head(s):
Jack Creedon
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
ACORE Capital
AlerisLife
American Industrial Partners
Amherst Capital Management
Apollo Management
Artemis Real Estate Partners
Bain Capital
Baupost Group
Blackstone Group
BrightSpire Investment Group
Work highlights
- Represented Blackstone in connection with its acquisition of a 20% interest in a newly formed joint venture with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) which held a $16.8bn senior mortgage loan portfolio retained in receivership following the failure of Signature Bank.
- Represented QuadReal in negotiations with Worthe Real Estate Group and Stockbridge Capital Group to form a tri-party joint venture for the $375m acquisition of The Burbank Studios in Burbank, California from Warner Bros. Entertainment, Inc.
- Represented Grosvenor Capital Management on an ongoing basis, including with respect to several joint ventures, funds, and related “hybrid” type investments, involving deals with multiple operating partners focused on both equity and debt-related real estate assets located in and around the US and in the UK, with an aggregate equity commitment of approximately $750m.
Antitrust > Merger control Tier 4
Work highlights
Dispute resolution > Appellate: courts of appeals / Appellate: supreme courts (states and federal)
The practice group at Ropes & Gray LLP routinely handles antitrust, securities, IP, and life sciences-related appeals. Washington, D.C-based practice lead Douglas Hallward-Driemeier draws on experience arguing 19 times before the U.S. Supreme Court and before every federal circuit court of appeals. In a recent highlight, Hallward-Driemeier was retained to represent MOAC Mall Holdings LLC in connection with ongoing litigation regarding the assignment of a lease for an anchor mall space in the Sears bankruptcy. Silicon Valley and San Francisco-based James Batchelder is an additional key contact for IP appeals.Practice head(s):
Douglas Hallward-Driemeier
Other key lawyers:
Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings Tier 4
Ropes & Gray LLP’s capital markets practice continues to stand out for its work for underwriters, though also has capabilities when it comes to company-side representations. Noted particularly for his experience in the healthcare, consumer retail, industrials, and tech sectors, Boston- and New York-based Craig Marcus leads the group along with Paul Tropp in New York, who has a strong track record advising financial companies, asset managers, fintech companies, and specialty finance enterprises such as BDCs, SPACs, and mortgage REITs. Boston’s Thomas Fraser plays a prominent role in the team and has recently acted as lead partner in connection with multiple investment-grade debt offerings on the issuer side. Christopher Capuzzi is also a key contact.Practice head(s):
Craig Marcus; Paul Tropp
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Eversource Energy
LPL Financial
Seagate Technology
IQVIA Holdings
Surgery Partners
Acushnet Holdings Corp
Work highlights
Finance > Fintech Tier 4
Ropes & Gray LLP is well-equipped to advise on a variety of blockchain and cryptocurrency matters, including those involving complex intellectual property considerations and litigation. Melissa Bender splits her time between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, counseling asset managers on the formation and launch of funds holding digital assets, as well as providing securities and market advice relating to ICOs, DAOs, and other token issuances. In Los Angeles, Amy Jane Longo brings her experience as regional trial counsel for the SEC to advise clients on a range of securities enforcement and litigation matters, while in Boston, Josh Jackson guides clients through transactions involving tech, data, or IP assets.Practice head(s):
Christopher Capuzzi; Sarah Young; Rohan Massey
Other key lawyers:
Melissa Bender; Amy Longo; Josh Jackson
Key clients
BlueYard Crypto Investments
Bain Capital Tech Opportunities
Haveli Investments
Barclays Capital Inc., BTIG, LLC, KeyBanc Capital Markets Inc. Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., Inc. and Keefe, Bruyette, & Woods, Inc. (collectively, the “Banks”).
Invesco
Pacific Investment Management Company LLC
SoV0
TPG Capital
Tribe Capital Management
Work highlights
Finance > Structured finance: derivatives and structured products Tier 4
Ropes & Gray LLP’s derivatives and commodities department has a strong showing for regulatory and transactional matters, and is the firm of choice for many mutual funds, banks, insurance companies, sovereign wealth funds and private fund sponsors. The team leverages broad expertise in derivatives, advising clients on forwards, collaterals, OTC derivatives, swaps, options and various other structured products. Boston-based Leigh Fraser heads the team, and is the port of call for derivatives regulatory queries, hedge fund and derivative formation. Also in New York, Isabel Dische advises asset managers and investors in a variety of asset class funds, while Chicago's Jeremy Liabo is a key member of the team for equity derivative transactions and total return swaps. Washington DC-based Molly Moore is often trusted to advise on Dodd-Frank Act derivative provision matters, along with various buy-side mandates.Practice head(s):
Leigh Fraser
Other key lawyers:
Isabel Dische; Jeremy Liabo; Molly Moore
Work highlights
Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (full coverage) Tier 4
Ropes & Gray LLP advises major tech and commercial enterprises in a wide range of high-stakes patent litigation cases at both the trial and appeal stages. The practice has experience in all major patent litigation forums. Steven Pepe in New York heads the team and has developed a strong focus on multijurisdictional and complex infringement cases. In Silicon Valley, Jim Batchelder acts for leading tech companies in district courts the PTAB and the ITC. James Davis is another stand-out practitioner in Silicon Valley, specializing in electric and computer-related patents. David Chun, who splits his time between Silicon Valley and Seoul, has an active patent litigation practice with expertise in various technologies, such as semiconductors, wireless technology, software interfaces and medical devices. Meanwhile, Kevin Post in New York works with life sciences and high-tech companies on standard-essential patents or RAND licensing issues.Practice head(s):
Steve Pepe
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
LG Electronics
Emerson Electric
Akamai
Collision Communications
Godo Kaisha IP Bridge
Roku
SharkNinja
Work highlights
- Achieved a favorable settlement for LG Electronics following a high-stakes patent litigation brought by Pantech involving cell phone technology, which included five purported standard essential patents related to 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G cellular communication standards, and two additional patents related to user interface features.
- Achieved a series of wins in Emerson’s long-running international dispute concerning mesh networking technology.
- Won a $23 million jury verdict for Collision Communications, against Nokia Solutions and Networks Oy on March 6 in the District of New Hampshire.
Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (International Trade Commission) Tier 4
The team at Ropes & Gray LLP frequently represents both complainants and respondents in patent litigation, trade secret disputes, and unfair competition cases before the ITC. Their practice is especially sought after for handling issues that arise in parallel ITC and PTAB proceedings. Key clients include Roku, SharkNinja, and HP. The team is co-led by Matthew Rizzolo, based in Washington DC, and Steven Pepe, located in New York. Rizzolo is an experienced IP litigator with expertise in various tech, including computer software and hardware, telecoms, and biotech. Pepe specializes in infringement cases, representing both high-profile and start-up tech companies.Practice head(s):
Steven Pepe; Matthew Rizzolo
Key clients
Roku Inc N
SharkNinja Operating LLC N
HP Inc N
Extreme Networks Inc
Work highlights
International trade and national security > National Security Tier 4
Ropes & Gray LLP‘s National Security and Foreign Investment practice boasts capabilities in CFIUS, cybersecurity, trade, antitrust, and economic sanctions. Washington DC managing partner Ama Adams has vast experience advising on these issues in the context of international transactions and international investigations. Brendan Hanifin, based in Chicago, evaluates international risk compliance programs and conducts risk assessments to develop or enhance these processes. Edward McNicholas heads the firm’s Global Data, Privacy, and Cybersecurity practice which contributes to wider National Security mandates, whilst Emerson Siegle, a recently promoted partner, represents clients in CFIUS reviews and assesses transactional CFIUS risks. Ruchit Patel, based in London, focuses his practice on antitrust issues. All lawyers are based in Washington DC unless stated otherwise.Practice head(s):
Ama Adams; Brendan Hanifin; Edward McNicholas; Ruchit Patel
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 4
Ropes & Gray LLP stands out for its broad expertise in managing high-stakes transactions across digital health, AI, blockchain, and fintech. Jackie Cohen , based in New York, advises on transactions across industries and specializes in shareholder activism, takeover defense, and corporate governance. Jordan Altman , also in New York, leads IP transactions, focusing on licensing, M&A, and strategic alliances, with expertise in AI, big data, and telecom. Altman also advises on patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.Practice head(s):
Rohan Massey; Sarah Young
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
New Mountain Capital
DNEG North America Inc
TA Associates Management LP
Advent International
Dragoneer Investment Group
GI Partners
TPG Capital, WellSky
Haveli Investments
EQT Private Capital
Deutsche Bank N
National Amusements Inc
Work highlights
Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 5
Work highlights
Finance > Commercial lending: Advice to bank lenders Tier 5
Often advising private equity firms on refinancing, leveraged buyouts, and strategic acquisitions, Ropes & Gray LLP is versed in capital call subscription facilities. In New York, Stefanie Birkmann is knowledgeable of asset-based and cash flow loans, high-yield debt offerings, as well as mezzanine financings, while Leonard Klingbaum is well-versed in distressed lending, restructuring, and strategic lending. Andrea Hwang is informed in asset-based credit facilities and mezzanine transactions, while Boston-based Michael Lee is informed in high-yield bond issuances, and syndicated credit facilities. Daniel Coyne is informed in restructuring and liability management transactions, and in Chicago, Nichole Lopez-Tackett handles leveraged buyout financing transactions.Practice head(s):
Stefanie Birkmann; Leonard Klingbaum; Michael Kazakevich
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Integrity Marketing Group
Genstar Capital
Surgery Partners and USIC
Creative Artists Agency
The Vistria Group
Advent International
Frontier Communications
M2S Group
HealthComp
Tecomet
American Industrial Partners
Work highlights
Finance > Commercial lending > Advice to direct lenders/private credit Tier 5
Often representing credit funds and alternative capital providers on distressed investments and liability management transactions, Ropes & Gray LLP is jointly led by New York-based Stefanie Birkmann and Leonard Klingbaum. Birkmann is vastly experienced in syndicated financing, senior and subordinated credit facilities, as well as asset-based loans, her recent caseload encompasses acquisition financing, first-lien term loan facilities, and unitranche financing. Klingbaum is noted for his capabilities in insolvency matters, distressed investments, and mezzanine transactions, while Sam Badawi is highly proficient in public and private debt and equity investments, financial restructuring matters, and initial public offerings. Operating out of Boston, Milap Patel handles debt restructuring, leveraged finance transactions, and syndicated credit facilities. Working out of Los Angeles, Jennifer Harris is versed in secured lending and distressed financing.Practice head(s):
Stefanie Birkmann; Leonard Klingbaum
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Marathon Asset Management
Blue Torch Capital
Highbridge Capital Management
Davidson Kempner Capital Management
Context Capital Management
Bardin Hill Investment Partners
InvescoConstitution Capital Partners
One Investment Management
Siguler Guff & Company
Eldridge Corporate Funding LLC
Work highlights
M&A/corporate and commercial > Venture capital and emerging companies Tier 5
Ropes & Gray LLP’s dominant life sciences offering is reflected in its venture capital practice and it supports life sciences start-ups and later-stage entities on financings, M&A, and exit transactions. The group also undertakes work for venture capital funds, private equity clients, and strategic investors, including the venture capital arms of major pharmaceutical multinationals. A trio of Boston-based partners co-head the team: Bradford Flint advises life sciences and technology companies and investors on an array of formation, financing, and corporate matters, while Marc Rubenstein and Rajarshi Banerjee specialize in life sciences and IP-related work. Private funds co-head Melissa Bender is also noted; she operates from San Francisco and Silicon Valley.Practice head(s):
Bradford Flint; Marc Rubenstein; Rajarshi Banerjee
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The lawyers at the venture capital and emerging companies practice at Ropes & Gray are exceptional. They have deep knowledge and experience in both the venture capital industry as well as the broader biotech ecosystem and in addressing specific needs of large multinationals.’
‘Ropes & Gray have supported us for some time now across all our corporate legal priorities, particularly executing fundraising and major licensing transactions. Ropes has effectively supported our growth trajectory as we mature as a company.’
Key clients
Gilgamesh Pharmaceuticals
MOMA Therapeutics
Haveli Investment Management LLC
Kailera Therapeutics, Inc.
CAMP4 Therapeutics
Perceptive Discovery Fund LP US
RTW Investments LP
Sands Capital Management LP
AvenCell Therapeutics
NorthPond Ventures LLC
Takeda Pharmaceuticals USA Inc
Pfizer
Finance > Structured finance: securitization
Practice head(s):
Patricia Lynch; Craig Marcus; Paul Tropp
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
International trade and national security > Customs, export controls and economic sanctions
Ropes & Gray LLP > Firm Profile
Ropes & Gray attorneys focus on the most critical business needs of their clients, across a range of leading legal practices. The firm’s collaborative approach means that its clients have ready access to corporate, litigation, transactional and regulatory attorneys whose knowledge and experience span industries and geographies. The firm is also committed to pro bono service, with 162,000 hours dedicated to important causes in 2017.
Main areas of practice
Antitrust: Ropes & Gray’s antitrust team offers sophisticated insight in addressing the wide-ranging needs of our clients, with a record of success in the courtroom and before US antitrust enforcement agencies.
Business restructuring: The team has extensive experience representing clients in bankruptcy cases, insolvencies and distressed situations throughout the US and internationally.
Enforcement/FCPA: Recognized as a leader, Ropes & Gray has a successful track record representing clients globally on enforcement actions, internal investigations and compliance issues.
Finance: The lawyers regularly work on domestic and cross-border financings, providing sophisticated borrowers, lenders and investors with seamless advice on financings spanning the capital structure and industries.
Hedge funds: Clients, ranging from start-up ventures to established firms with hundreds of billions of dollars under management, receive advice and innovative solutions from one of the most sophisticated hedge fund practices.
Healthcare: Home to one of the nation’s first practices dedicated to health care law, Ropes & Gray counsels clients on transactions, regulatory matters and government investigations, and provides strategic counseling.
Intellectual property: The firm delivers cohesive and comprehensive guidance over a full range of IP services, from rights protection and litigation to licensing and transactions, across a wide range of industries.
Investment management: Clients receive counsel on all aspects of their businesses, including fund formation and management, compliance, fund distribution arrangements, mergers and restructurings, tax matters, and litigation.
Life sciences: The team understands the unique needs of clients in the dynamic life sciences industry and handles various transactions, from licensing agreements for small companies to large mergers of industry-leading enterprises.
Litigation: As one of the largest and most experienced securities litigation practices in the US, the firm advises leading companies, financial institutions and individuals when their businesses and livelihoods are on the line.
M&A: Comprehensive public and private company transactional experience across industries including financial services, health care, life sciences, retail and consumer brands, and technology, media and communications.
Privacy and cybersecurity: The multi-disciplinary team consists of litigators and transactional, health care and IP attorneys who counsel clients across a broad range of industries.
Private equity: The firm routinely advises leading large and middle-market clients in multiple industries on every aspect of their largest and most complex global transactions.
Private investment funds: A pioneer from the inception of the private funds industry, Ropes & Gray has one of the largest and sophisticated global private investment funds practices, advising both fund sponsors and investors.
Real estate: A multi-disciplinary team advises on domestic and global investments (direct JVs, co- investments and funds, including distressed), financings, acquisitions and leasing in today’s growing real estate market.
Special situations: The firm’s integrated team includes partners from the US, London and Asia and is ideally equipped to assist clients across the entirety of the special situations deal spectrum.
Tax: Attorneys offer tax planning, transactional and tax controversy advice for multinational business entities, including private and registered funds, fund sponsors and advisors, public companies, and tax-exempt organizations.
Market perception: The American Lawyer A-List: 2011–2017; Financial Times North American Innovative Lawyers: 2011–2017; The Legal 500 US – ‘Mutual/Registered Funds Firm of the Year,’ 2015; Chambers USA – “Corporate Crime & Government Investigations Client Service Award,” 2016 – “Health Care Firm of the Year,” 2015 – “Investment Funds Client Service Award, 2017”; Law360 ‘Practice of the Year 2017’ – Asset Management Private Equity, National Law Journal – Pro Bono Hot List 2017
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
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Antitrust | |||
Asset management | |||
Business restructuring | |||
Capital markets | |||
Finance | |||
Healthcare | |||
Intellectual property | |||
Labor and employment | |||
Life sciences | |||
Litigation and enforcement | |||
Mergers and acquisitions | |||
Privacy and data security | |||
Private equity | |||
Real estate | |||
Sports | |||
Tax and benefits | |||
Wealth management |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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Andrew Thomases | Partner | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of Partners : 300 Number of Lawyers : 1,200Other
Chairman : R Bradford Malt ([email protected]) Managing Partner : David C Chapin ([email protected]) INTERNATIONAL OFFICES : Hong Kong INTERNATIONAL OFFICES : London INTERNATIONAL OFFICES : Seoul INTERNATIONAL OFFICES : Shanghai INTERNATIONAL OFFICES : Tokyo- Dispute resolution > E-discovery
- Finance > Commercial lending
- Healthcare > Life sciences
- Healthcare > Service providers
- Industry focus > Education
- Investment fund formation and management > Alternative/hedge funds
- Investment fund formation and management > Mutual/registered/exchange-traded funds
- Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense
- Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings
- Intellectual property > Patents: licensing
- Investment fund formation and management > Private equity funds (including venture capital)
- M&A/corporate and commercial > Private equity buyouts: large deals ($500m+)
- Tax > Not-for-profit (Fortune 1000 private foundations, national trade associations, and charities)
- Tax > US taxes: non-contentious
Firm Rankings
- Antitrust > Cartel
- Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense
- Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings
- Finance > Financial services regulation
- Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate
- Government > State attorneys general
- Labor and employment > Workplace and employment counseling
- M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: large deals ($1bn+)
- M&A/corporate and commercial > Shareholder activism
- Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection)
- Real estate
- Antitrust > Merger control
- Dispute resolution > Appellate: courts of appeals / Appellate: supreme courts (states and federal)
- Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings
- Finance > Fintech
- Finance > Structured finance: derivatives and structured products
- Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (full coverage)
- Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (International Trade Commission)
- International trade and national security > National Security
- Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions