Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP > San Diego (Downtown), United States > Firm Profile
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP Offices

501 WEST BROADWAY
NINETEENTH FLOOR
SAN DIEGO, CA 92101
CALIFORNIA
United States
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Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Government > Government contracts Tier 2
Spanning both Washington DC and California, the team at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP is notable for its experience in the defense, intelligence, and aerospace spaces. Covering both work for Fortune 500 companies and national security matters, the group is particularly strong in counselling, cost accounting, compliance, investigations, False Claims Act litigation, and bid protests. The group is under new leadership from Jonathan Aronie, who covers the full range of public procurement issues, both proactive and defensive. The team is supported by Keith Szeliga, who has extensive experience in bid protest litigation, compliance programs, and investigations/audits, particularly for defense contractors. Former practice head John ChierichellaPractice head(s):
Jonathan Aronie
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Sheppard Mullin team have some of the best talent and respond quickly to my requests. They have an unparalleled, in my view, bench of specialists and in almost all cases respond promptly (within the same day or 24 hours) of an inquiry.’
‘For the most part the practitioners are generous with their time and do not nickel-and-dime you when you ask peripheral or passing questions. They take time to get to know your company’s individual needs.’
‘Very responsive. Brought an impressive team to bear on a significant claim.’
Key clients
Northrop Grumman
IBM
American Automotive Safety Research, LLC
TechFlow Mission Support, LLC d/b/a EMI Services
SES Government Solutions, Inc.
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Huntington Ingalls Inc.
Olin Winchester, LLP
Collins Aerospace
Electronic Warfare Associates
American Automotive Safety Research, LLC
Collins Aerospace
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Electronic Warfare Associates
Gartner
Huntington Ingalls Inc.
IBM
Mastercard
Northrop Grumman
Olin Winchester, LLP
Salesforce
SES Government Solutions, Inc.
Symantec/Norton
TechFlow Mission Support, LLC d/b/a EMI Services
WW Grainger
Work highlights
- Representing Norton (previously Symantec) in a False Claims Act matter, which is scheduled to go to trial this February.
- Represented Northrop Grumman Systems Corp, in a matter involved affirmative claims of almost $200 million and counterclaims that aggregated in excess of $400 million.
- Represented IBM in a bid protest challenging the Army’s award of a $729 million task order to Accenture Federal Services (“Accenture”) for Unified Enterprise Resource Planning Capability Support Services.
Industry focus > Energy: renewable/alternative power Tier 2
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP fields a ‘strong broad specialist team for the renewables/energy sector‘, advising clients on all stages of renewable energy generation projects across the country. Developers, lenders, utilities and infrastructure investors make up the team’s varied client base, which regularly seeks advice on debt financing transactions, tax equity deals and acquisitions and divestitures of renewable and alternative power developments. Katherine Gillespie co-leads the team, which is primarily based in Chicago. With more than two decades of experience in this field, Gillespie has handled several development, financing, and M&A transactions involving wind, solar and other renewable assets. Also in the Chicago office, Amit Kalra and Andrew Ratts are key contacts for tax equity matters. On the West Coast, fellow co-head Tony Toranto is based in San Diego, and brings together comprehensive knowledge of both conventional and renewable energy projects. Christine Hourcade-Hoefliger in San Francisco focuses on the sale, acquisition and financing of renewable assets.Practice head(s):
Katherine Gillespie; Tony Toranto
Other key lawyers:
Amit Kalra; Andrew Ratts; Paul Kaufman; Christine Hourcade-Hoefliger; Elliot Hinds; Katarzyna Levecke; Benjamin Huffman; Andrew Mina
Testimonials
‘Great industry insights and strong broad specialist team for the renewables/energy sector. They have handled highly structured and complex deals for us working to structure bespoke transactions while also diligently managing typical asset level diligence. Have collaborated well in our switch to SimpleLegal billing and have met all of our requests over the years, one of our core external counsels we depend on.’
‘Christine Hoefliger has been our main partner and relationship manager and has handled everything from matter management, leading legal support/advice/drafting as well as broad management of billing/pricing/corporate support to the team. She has an excellent mix of legal execution, commercial understanding, and relationship management that has made working with SM seamless and our growth over the years feel less overwhelming.’
Key clients
174 Power Global
Able Grid
Akuo Energy USA Inc.
ALLETE Clean Energy, Inc.
Arevon
ArtCenter College of Design
Avangrid, Inc.
Bridge Bank
Brookfield Power U.S. Asset Management LLC
Capital Power Corporation
CarVal Investors, LLC
CIT Bank, N.A.
Clearway Renewables LLC
ConnectGen Operating LLC
Consolidated Edison Development, Inc.
Cordelio Power
Crestwood Biofuels Investors, LLC
Crossover Energy Partners
EDF Renewable Energy, Inc.
EDP Renewables North America
ENGIE North America Inc.
Eni S.p.A.
Exelsior Energy Capital LP
Falvez Energy
Fifth Third Bank
Fortistar Services, LLC
Foss Maritime
Gexa Energy, L.P.
Goldwind USA, Inc.
Greenbacker Renewable Energy Corporation
Hanwha Q Cells
Hecate Energy LLC
Homestead Capital USA LLC
Invenergy LLC
i.on renewables LLC
Jaton LLC
Longroad Energy Holdings, LLC
Mitsubishi UFJ Lease & Finance Co., Ltd.
Montopolis Storage, L.P.
Nestle USA, Inc.
New Resource Solutions
Nexamp, Inc.
NextEra Energy Resources, LLC
Oak Creek Energy
Open Road Renewables
Oriden (Mitsubishi Power Americas)
Pacific Mercantile Bank
Photosol
Pivot Power
Plus Power
Ranger Power
RC Energy
RWE Renewables Americas, LLC
sPower, LLC
Sure Power LLC
Telamon Energy Solutions
Tenaska
TerraForm Power LLC
U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation
United States Solar Corporation
Waste Management, Inc.
Wells Fargo, N.A.
X-Elio Energy, SL
ZCF Wind Wall, LLC
Zions Bancorp
Work highlights
- Represented ALLETE in several transactions in the past 12 months, including the tax equity financing of a 303MW wind project in Johnson and Pontotoc Counties, Oklahoma.
- Represented EDF Renewables in the tax equity financing of two wind projects in Texas and four solar projects in California, totalling 889MW across all projects.
- Represented ENGIE in connection with a hybrid financing transaction of a large portfolio of distributed generation solar projects located in Illinois, Massachusetts, Vermont and other states.
Industry focus > Healthcare: service providers Tier 2
The transactional experts at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP are known for providing expert advice on M&A, joint ventures, and are particularly known for their private equity advice. It also offers expertise to tax-exempt non-profit organisations on their corporate needs, including hospitals and academic medical centres. The team’s most notable strength, however, is its advice on risk/value-based reimbursement systems, having acted on Alkuri Global Acquisition Corp’s $4.2bn merger with digital value-based care company Babylon Holdings. Eric Klein leads the practice from Century City, offering clients advice on their large scale transactions. California-based Lynsey Mitchel and DC-based Michael Paddock both offer regulatory expertise.Practice head(s):
Eric Klein
Other key lawyers:
Lynsey Mitchel; Michael Paddock; Phil Kim; Mike McKinnon
Testimonials
‘Mike McKinnon is exceptional. Available 24/7 Super business focused. A lawyer that really “gets it” in doing deals. Not an impediment to getting a deal done.’
‘Integrity of the legal explanations of the matters at hand. Able to connect the legal issues with the business challenges. Help provide a solution in a timely manner’
‘The associates were readily available and quick to put a response to a question or solution. Honesty was part of their character throughout the entire case. Realistic approach to fast past issues.’
‘This team is incredibly thorough with their answers. The best type of responses and emails to in-house counsel involve emails that don’t require any additional follow-up back to outside counsel, and just being able to use the outside counsel’s email and attachments right away within the company. The healthcare team at SMRH provides just that – work product you can actually use.’
‘Phil Kim and his associates are quick and efficient with their responses. I have not worked with outside counsel who provides such a useable work product. Their hard work and thoroughness save me days of work and it’s worth every dollar!’
‘The wide range of talents makes SMRH a great firm for a growing company’
Key clients
Blue Shield of California
Orthopedic Care Partners Holdings, LLC
Alkuri Global Acquisition Corp.
Landmark Health
Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
NYC Health + Hospitals
Summit Medical Group
Excelsior Integrated Medical Group, PLLC and Excelsior Integrated Management Corp.
Pediatric Associates
The Polyclinic
VillageMD
Amulet Capital Partners, LP
BlueMountain Capital Management LLC
R1RCM
agilon health
Aligned Telehealth
Alignment Healthcare
Aledade
Evolent Health
Excellere Capital Partners
Iora Health
Kadiant Holdings, L.P.
Lumeris
ChenMed
The Innovation Institute
Varsity Healthcare Partners
University of California San Diego
Pikes Peak Anesthesia Associates, PC
Planned Parenthood of Greater Northwest Hawaii
Bon Secours Mercy Health
Caremount Medical Group
Montefiore Medicine Academic Health System
NYU Hospitals Center and NYU School of Medicine
General Atlantic
University of Maryland Medical System
Work highlights
- Advised Alkuri Global Acquisition Corp. in its $4.2bn merger with Babylon Holdings Limited.
- Represented Landmark Health in its sale to Optum, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group.
- Advised CareMount Health Solutions on its merger into a subsidiary of Optum, part of the UnitedHealth Group.
M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: middle-market (sub-$500m) Tier 2
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP operates across the aerospace, entertainment, healthcare, technology, software, fashion and financial services sectors, providing both buy- and sell-side representation. Working from the Century City office, practice co-head Linda Michaelson caters to a client roster of motion picture studios, digital media companies and television networks, among others, providing acquisition, divestiture, merger, corporate finance and strategic alliance expertise.Practice head(s):
Jeralin Cardoso; Linda Michaelson; Ariel Yehezkel
Other key lawyers:
Larry Braun; David Sands; Zachary Turke; Jordan Hamburger; Jeff Bowling
Testimonials
‘Jeff Bowling is absolutely exceptional. He is constantly available, does an excellent job properly managing expectations and is incredibly good at getting deals across the line. He quickly can summarize what is acceptable and what is not and works to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients.’
Key clients
Oasis Materials Company LP
Xytech Systems Corp.
Snak-King Corp.
Keyes Motors, Inc
Micro Quality Labs, LLC
Sony Pictures Entertainment
Wedgewood, LLC
ICM Partners
AMRO Fabricating Corporation
Milestone Technologies, Inc.
CareMount Medical, P.C.
Trillium Engineering, LLC
Action Verb, LLC (d/b/a Files.com)
Technicolor Creative Services USA, Inc.
Arlington Capital Partners
BlueHalo, LLC
Octo Consulting Group
Milton’s Holding Corporation
Provepharm Life Solutions
Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: transactional Tier 2
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP has established itself as a practice at the cutting-edge, handling matters related to content and streaming for key players from the music and motion picture sectors such as Amazon Studios and Spotify as well as advising NFT platforms like Async Art. Robb Klein co-heads the practice out of Century City and handles matters pertaining to production, financing, IP centered agreements, and digital business. Klein’s co-head Linda Michaelson represents clients on the corporate side of media and entertainment and recently represented Lionsgate in its acquisition of the majority of Spyglass Media Group’s feature film library. Further recommended on finance, M&A, and joint venture transactions is co-head David Sands in Los Angeles who has special expertise in sports-related matters. Highly active in the practice and leading the team on Amazon’s acquisition of MGM, Robert Darwell in Century City is an expert in handling content-production deals in various industries. Stacey Rosenberg joined the firm in May 2021 from Hogan Lovells US LLP, further bolstering its strength with her deep expertise in debt finance transactions in the media and entertainment industries. Sidney Fohrman left the firm.Practice head(s):
Robb Klein; Linda Michaelson; David Sands
Other key lawyers:
Robert Darwell; Shaun Clark; Leif Cervantes de Reinstein; Daniel Schnapp; James Gatto Alexis Robinson; Genevieve Perez; Marc Hershberg
Testimonials
‘They are incredibly business minded and work with a lot of people in the sector so they have a tone of industry knowledge.’
‘They are incredibly business minded and great drafters.’
‘The Sheppard team bring a combination of experience and sound business judgment to the table when it comes to media and entertainment. This extends into areas of data privacy as well. The team is consistently very responsive to our needs, and always available to answer questions, provide feedback, and help with more complex issue and drafting.’
‘Dan Schnapp and Genevieve Perez each bring a wealth of knowledge to the table and keeps up to the date with the latest developments in the law and within the media and tech industries. This is very important for us as we weigh legal risk against industry practice.’
Key clients
Amazon Studios
Gaumont
Hemisphere Media Group
Lionsgate
Sony Pictures Entertainment
Troy Aikman
ICM Partners
Spotify
Rare Beauty
loanDepot.com
101 Studios
BET Network
Royal Goode Productions
AmazeVR
Peloton Interactive, Inc.
Domain Capital Partners
News Corporation
Peloton Interactive
Spotify Inc.
ASCAP (the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers)
STIM
Async Art
Truepic
Entertainment Software Association
Dapper Labs
Superplastic
ABXR Labs, Inc.
Media, technology and telecoms > Telecoms and broadcast: regulatory Tier 2
Based in Washington DC, Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP assists clients worldwide in matters pertaining to satellite and cable, involving its integrated litigation practice where necessary. Practice head Brian Weimer advises satellite operators as well as financiers of satellite and wireless companies, representing them before the FCC and ITU. His colleague Paul Werner is a seasoned first chair trial and appellate litigator, currently defending the largest nationwide class action ever filed under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. Dave Thomas broadens the firm’s scope with his expertise in wire-based and wireless networks and special focus on broadband networks. In a recent highlight, Werner and Thomas led the team in representation of Charter Communications against the City of Yuma regarding compliance with Arizona’s Uniform Franchise Law, requiring the city to adopt a uniform video service license agreement. Also recommended is Drew Svor, for his expertise in representing clients before the ‘Team Telecom’ governmental agencies as well as CFIUS. Stephen Chernow joined the firm as special counsel in April 2021 from an in-house position, while Ray Rutngamlug has departed.Practice head(s):
Brian Weimer
Other key lawyers:
Dave Thomas; Paul Werner; Drew Svor; Imad Matini; Abraham Shanedling; Hannah Wigger; Stephen Chernow
Testimonials
‘Sheppard Mullin’s Telecoms practice sets itself apart by offering clear, actionable advice that our business can quickly implement. The team also offers a deep and thorough understanding of the industry. This allows them to offer top-tier regulatory advice. And they have the ability to handle complex disputes in all fora — whether in state/federal court, before state/federal regulatory commissions, or before international arbitral tribunals.’
‘The Sheppard Mullin Telecoms team truly puts their clients’ needs first. They recognize that offering top-notch legal advice requires constant investment in developing relationships, understanding clients’ businesses, and understanding the industry at large. This allows them to advise “in the weeds” on particular issues, with the vision to ensure their advice complements and advances the overall enterprise.
‘Paul Werner, Partner, an exceptional litigator on any matter, is unparalleled when it comes to litigating complex telecommunications matters. He approaches every dispute with the end game front of mind — driving great results whether the dispute ultimately is settled, arbitrated, or tried and/or appealed.’
Key clients
SES S.A.
OneWeb
Charter Communications
New England Cable & Telecommunications Association, Inc.
Snap
Astra Capital Management
Piper Networks
Rakuten
Susan L. Uecker, Receiver
Comcast Communications
Cox Communications
California Cable & Telecommunications Association
Ohio Cable Telecommunications Association
LCTA – The Internet & Television Association
Maine Cable Association
Vero Fiber Networks
San Diego Gas & Electric
Work highlights
- Represented SES S.A. in the FCC’s efforts to convert the “C-Band spectrum” from satellite to terrestrial use, culminating in a $80.9bn spectrum auction.
- Advising OneWeb on FCC and international regulatory matters.
- Advised Rakuten, a multinational e-commerce conglomerate based in Tokyo, Japan, with respect to FCC regulatory issues in connection with Rakuten’s leadership in Open RAN technology and its global rollout of the new Rakuten Communications Platform.
Real estate > Land use/zoning Tier 2
Tax > Not-for-profit (nonprofit and tax exempt organizations) Tier 2
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP’s non-profit practice fields a coast-to-coast presence and is jointly managed by David Ulich in Los Angeles and Tamar Rosenberg in New York. Housed within the firm’s national healthcare group, the team handles the full gamut of matters for tax-exempt clients ranging from governance issues to transactional mandates and corporate restructurings. Jay Gerzog heads the healthcare team and is recommended for representing academic medical centers and other healthcare entities, whilst corporate partner Amanda Zablocki focuses on regulatory and compliance. Special counsel Molly Unterseher joined the firm in New York from Conley Law Group LLC, and advises private foundations, public charities and donor advised funds on charitable activities and grant making. The team also leverages its wider contacts in the West Coast to handle real estate matters.Practice head(s):
David Ulich; Tamar Rosenberg
Other key lawyers:
Amanda Zablocki; Jay Gerzog; Molly Unterseher; Rena Andoh; Lois Durant; Alan Martin; Tyler Bernstein
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable in a complex specialty; they have really invested the time to understand our organization. Tamar Rosenberg has demonstrated an in-depth understanding in the tax-exempt area, and she is very responsive.’
‘Rena Andoh, Amanda Zablocki and Lois Durant have all been extraordinary thought partners.’
‘Under Alan H. Martin Esq.’s coordination effort, the partners or associates most qualified to handle with a specific matter are normally assigned to their area(s) of expertise. As Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP are the only firm I deal with (outside of “one off” matters assigned to another firm by our insurance company), it’s hard for me to offer insight as to how SMRH compares to other firms.’
‘They make themselves available on short notice. Of the various lawyers with whom I regularly collaborate, Tyler Bernstein stands out as a solid up and comer. He assesses situations well and is forthright in his approach.’
Key clients
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
AltaMed Health Services Corporation
American Arbitration Association
Annenberg Foundation
Archdiocese of New York
Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina
Blue Shield of California
Catholic Health Services of Long Island
Childhelp USA
Duke University Health System
Dwight D. Opperman Foundation
EmblemHealth
Foundation for Global Sports Development
Humane America Animal Foundation
Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Hospital
Maimonides Medical Center
MemorialCare Health System
Molina Healthcare, Inc.
Montefiore Medicine Academic Health Center
Mount Sinai Health System
New York City Health + Hospitals Corporation & MetroPlus
Ounce of Prevention Fund
Para la Naturaleza and the Conservation Trust Fund of Puerto Rico
Pollyanna, Inc.
Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange County
San Diego Regional Policy and Innovation Center
SOMOS Healthcare Providers, Inc.
St. Charles Health System
The HBCU Founders Initiative
The San Diego Foundation
The Wallis Annenberg Legacy Foundation
University of Maryland Medical System
U.S.S. Midway Museum
Visiting Nurse Service of New York
Yale New Haven Health System
Work highlights
- Advised on a broad range of nonprofit corporate, tax-exempt, health regulatory, transactional, property tax exemption and other work for Montefiore Medicine Academic Health Systems.
- Advised The Annenberg Foundation on nonprofit corporate, tax-exempt, governance, grant making, investment, and other advice.
- Advised The San Diego Foundation on its application for tax-exempt status and provided a full spectrum of organizational and governance advice for the new organization.
Antitrust > Cartel Tier 3
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP has a successful record in cartel defense litigation, representing corporate and individual clients in civil and criminal proceedings against the DOJ, as well as opt-out and state Attorney General cases. The primarily West Coast-based team has a strong focus on the electronics sector, representing a wide range of major clients including Samsung, and also has expertise in the petrol, cybersecurity and essential patents space. Practice head Mike Scarborough represents Samsung and its subsidiaries in a number of high-profile cases, including relating to lithium ion batteries, while Washington DC-based Michael Cohen is active in cartel defense proceedings, most notably at present for executives at Reynolds & Reynolds in the tuna canning cartel investigation. Also in DC, Leo Caseria has broad sector expertise and is also regularly involved in international cartel proceedings. Dylan Ballard handles civil and criminal litigation, and was involved in several of the cases for Samsung Electronics. Lawyers are in San Francisco unless otherwise stated.Practice head(s):
Mike Scarborough
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Mike Scarborough is a very effective antitrust lawyer.’
‘I do think that Mike Scarborough is a stand-out partner and exceptional attorney.’
Key clients
Continental Automotive
Reynolds & Reynolds Company
ESET LLC
Jain Irrigation Inc.
Fuyao Glass America Inc.
San Francisco Association of Realtors
Work highlights
- Representing telematics supplier Continental Automotive Systems Inc in their antitrust suit against three large holders of patents essential to practicing the 2G, 3G and 4G cellular standards, accusing them of colluding via patent pool Avanci LLC to artificially inflate royalties.
- Representing Reynolds and Reynolds Company in U.S. antitrust federal investigations, state attorney general investigations, federal multidistrict litigation and federal lawsuits challenges state regulations, all relating to alleged data access disputes in the market for automotive computer system software.
- Representing CalPortland Company in its antitrust claim against the four major US railroads, alleging billions of dollars in damages, revolving around an alleged scheme to fix fuel surcharges.
Industry focus > Healthcare: health insurers Tier 3
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP continues to expand its presence in the healthcare space, particularly regarding insurance-related transactions. Risk contracting-based arrangements are a particular area of expertise for the team, as is the establishment of value-based care arrangements. It also acts on major M&A, serving as healthcare regulatory counsel to Cigna in its acquisition of telehealth provider MDLive. Much of the team is based in Century City, and as such, it has a strong presence in the California market. Eric Klein leads the team, offering major experience in market consolidation. Lynsey Mitchel focuses on HMO licensing advice, and San Francisco-based Eric Newsom advises on health tech.Practice head(s):
Eric Klein
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina
Newlight Partners
Stanford Health Care Advantage, Inc.
Blue Shield of California
Mutual of Omaha
Dignity Health
Unum Group
Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Washington
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas City
Bright Health
Cambia Health Solutions
CareFirst
CareMore Health (Anthem Subsidiary)
Centene Corporation
Cigna Corporation
Delta Dental
Dignity Health
Emblem Health
Fidelis Care corporate members
Fresenius
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
Healthfirst
HealthNow of New York
Hawaii Medical Service Association
Molina Healthcare
Premera Blue Cross
Providence Health & Services
SCAN Health Plan, Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised Cigna in its 2021 multi-billion-dollar acquisition of leading telehealth provider MDLive.
- Represented Molina Healthcare, Inc. in its acquisition of Magellan Complete Care from Magellan Health, Inc.
- Represented Cambia Health Solutions in its sale of HealthSparq, Inc. to Kyruus, Inc.
Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection) Tier 3
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP is ‘excellent’ at handling privacy regulatory compliance and houses ‘some of the top privacy experts in the field’, including practice co-heads Craig Cardon in Century City and Liisa ThomasPractice head(s):
Craig Cardon; Liisa Thomas
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent at privacy regulatory compliance. They have some of the top privacy experts in the field. Have written extensively on the topic with regular updates.’
‘Lawyers are personable, explain topics in practical and understandable terms, and provides practical and actionable guidance to meet regulatory requirements.’
Key clients
Inspire Brands (fka Sonic Drive-In)
Dick’s Sporting Goods, The TJX Companies and Sephora
Williams-Sonoma Inc.
FaceFirst, Inc
FC Dallas
StockX LLC and Stock, Inc.
Arby’s
Papa John’s
Digital Reality Management Services, LLC
Subway
Nestlé Purina PetCare Company
Flanders Corp
ZARA USA
Broder Bros., Co.
Method Products, PBC
NEO Technologies
Work highlights
- Representing in a data breach class action MDL filed by financial institutions that allegedly sustained damages as a result of a 2017 data breach perpetrated against Sonic.
- Represented StockX LLC in securing the dismissal of five consolidated class action lawsuits that were filed against StockX LLC in the aftermath of a 2019 data breach.
- Advising Papa John’s on privacy issues and assisting the company with a variety of compliance projects.
Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: litigation Tier 3
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP litigates breach of contract, publicity, fraud, and IP matters for corporate players such as Global Eagle Entertainment and key figures on the talent side of the industry such as Hillary Duff. Marty Katz leads the practice out of Century City, a seasoned litigator covering a wide variety of claims and entities in the industry, he recently represented Oakley Inc. in a dispute with snowboarder Shaun White regarding endorsement royalties. Additionally based in Century City, Dylan Price is a practitioner with international reach, he regularly represents foreign investors, producers, and distributors in profit participation and distribution-related matters.Practice head(s):
Marty Katz
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Row 44
Global Eagle Entertainment Inc.
Oakley, Inc. and Luxottica of America, Inc.
Tohme R. Tohme
Barajoun Entertainment FZ-LLC
Weying Galaxy Inc
Campanario Entertainment, LLC and Netflix, Inc.
Just Goods Inc
Wargaming
Amobee
Hilary Duff
Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 4
The antitrust and competition team at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP handles and assortment of cases in its defense side practice, including monopoly violations, joint collaborations, and market foreclosures. One of the firm’s specializations lies at the intersection of antitrust and IP, particularly within the technology sector. Mike Scarborough leads the department from San Francisco, placing a focus on matters regarding international cartel investigations, class actions, commercial disputes, and consumer protection matters. Further key contacts are Michael Cohen and Leo Caseria, both in Washington DC. In January 2021, John Carroll joined the DC office from a previous position at King & Spalding LLP.Practice head(s):
Mike Scarborough
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Continental Automotive Systems Inc.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Mastercard International
ESET LLC
Jain Irrigation Inc.
Samsung Electronics America, Inc.
Fuyao Glass America Inc.
ACT, Inc.
San Francisco Association of Realtors
Reynolds & Reynolds Company
Cal Portland Company
Amerifoods Trading Co.
Odem International
Markstein Beverage
Work highlights
- Leading the defense of the Reynolds and Reynolds Company in U.S. antitrust federal investigations, state attorney general investigations, federal multidistrict litigation and federal lawsuits challenging state regulations, all relating to alleged data access disputes in the market for automotive computer system software.
- Represented Samsung Electronics in global patent and standards-related antitrust governmental proceedings and MDL litigation involving Qualcomm.
Antitrust > Merger control Tier 4
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP has a prolific merger control practice, focusing primarily on mid-market M&A. Primarily handling HSR filings, the team is also able to advise clients through merger review and challenge proceedings, including regulatory and CFIUS issues. The firm is particularly known for its work in the healthcare space, with Washington DC-based practice co-head Bevin Newman an expert in advising on national and state-level healthcare transactions, including vertical combinations and innovative strategic alliances. Elsewhere, the firm has also advised on a number of crypto-related mergers, demonstrating expertise in this developing industry space. In Century City, co-head David Garcia combines merger control advice with an active litigation practice, representing clients before the DOJ and FTC in merger-related cases. The DC office was bolstered by the arrival of John Carroll from King & Spalding LLP in early 2021, a former FTC official with experience in merger litigation and media industry transactions.Practice head(s):
Bevin Newman; David Garcia
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
U.S. Brick
Blue Shield of California
BitGo
Extend
Doosan Corporation
SKOUT Solutions
Work highlights
- Representing U.S. Brick in the purchase of certain assets being divested by Meridian and General Shale.
- Represented BitGo Inc. in its acquisition by bitcoin-focused firm Galaxy Digital Holdings Ltd. for $1.2 billion.
- Represented Extend in its $260M Series C funding round led by SoftBank Vision Fund 2.
Industry focus > Environment: litigation Tier 4
With a strong environmental bench based on the West Coast, Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP is well-versed in high-stakes environmental litigation throughout California and high-profile enforcement actions before various regulatory agencies. Covering all areas of environmental law, the practice is seen with great regularity advising clients engaged in contentious matters arising from soil and groundwater contamination, hazardous waste and air quality issues. Defending companies from the food and beverages, real estate, electronics and consumer goods sectors who have received Proposition 65 Notice of Violations is another area of particular strength for the practice. Jeffrey Parker is a key contact for this type of work in Los Angeles; he is also singled out for is track record in environmental and tort litigation. Whitney Roy co-chairs the environmental litigation with Parker in LA; her expertise cuts across Propositiong 65, water contamination, CERCLA and the Clean Air Act.Practice head(s):
Jeffrey Parker; Whitney Roy
Other key lawyers:
Nico van Aelstyn
Testimonials
‘I believe the firm has broad and capable expertise and from my experience I would be glad to consider them for any California matter that I might have. Compared to the other larger law firm that my client had used for the same type of work, I find this firm to much stronger in the law and much more client-oriented.’
‘I have seen a number of attorneys practicing in the field of Proposition 65 work, and Whitney Jones Roy is by far the best we’ve used — she is client-oriented, smart and strategic and practical in her advice.’
‘The Sheppard team combined specialized knowledge of three areas of law and legal practice: international climate change law, carbon market practices and US constitutional law. This combination of perspectives helped add weight to our case. It involved coordination with a legal expert representing a variety of private sector firms to form a powerful common view, which helped to drive a successful outcome.’
‘The firm has deep expertise in the emerging field of international climate change law, particularly commercial trading linkages that allow cross-border carbon credit transactions. Given that we operate in an emerging market, the firm’s depth of experience in related markets was a tremendous asset.’
Key clients
Trojan Battery Company, LLC
Soco West, Inc. and Brenntag Pacific, Inc.
Hanson Aggregates Mid-Pacific, Inc.
O P I Products, Inc.
Soylent, Inc.
City of Diamond Bar
International Emissions Trading Association (IETA)
PRP group at the Yosemite Slough Superfund Site
Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 4
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP has a ‘business savvy‘ team working at the intersection of various industries operating within the technology sphere, including entertainment, sports, retail, digital media, consumer products and healthcare. Clients benefit from good credentials in IP licensing and commercialization agreements, privacy and data security law, and other forms of outsourcing and strategic collaboration projects. The team also provides crucial support on IP and technology driven corporate matters including M&A, restructurings, capital markets, and antitrust. Brian Anderson and Michael Orlando, respectively in San Francisco and San Diego, co-lead the team with the ‘amazing‘ Daniel Schnapp in New York, who also heads the firm’s eSports industry team. Other key partners include Washington DC’s James Gatto, music and entertainment lawyer Sidney Fohrman in Century City, and the recently promoted Alexis Robinson in New York.Practice head(s):
Brian Anderson; Michael Orlando; Daniel Schnapp
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They’re business savvy and weigh legal risks against business needs.’
‘Alexis Robinson and Dan Schnapp are amazing and I’d recommend them to anyone.’
Key clients
American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP)
Viacom
Mastercard
Heed, LLC
Vevo
Paramount
News America Marketing (subsidiary of News Corporation)
Peloton
Cinedigm Entertainment
Sony Pictures
Tiny Horse
ArtistXP
Spotify
Match.com
adidas
B8ta, Inc.
Chelsea Football Club and Chelsea Digital Ventures
BigGo
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Rakuten Mobile
Media, technology and telecoms > Telecoms and broadcast: transactions Tier 4
As specialists in cable and satellite matters, the Washington DC-based team of Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP is a go-to counsel for OneWeb, who alongside the firm’s other clients additionally benefits from the practice’s close relationship and integration of the firm’s litigation practice. Practice head Brian Weimer is an authority on matters pertaining to the satellite and wireless industries leads the team in representation of OneWeb. His colleague Drew Svor focuses on M&A and matters before the ‘Team Telecom’ government agencies in representing satellite and wireless companies. Ray Rutngamlug has left the practice to work in-house.Practice head(s):
Brian Weimer
Other key lawyers:
Drew Svor; Stephen Chernow
Key clients
SES S.A.
OneWeb
Charter Communications
New England Cable & Telecommunications Association, Inc.
Snap
Astra Capital Management
Piper Networks
Rakuten
Susan L. Uecker, Receiver
Comcast Communications
Cox Communications
California Cable & Telecommunications Association
Ohio Cable Telecommunications Association
LCTA – The Internet & Television Association
Maine Cable Association
Vero Fiber Networks
San Diego Gas & Electric
Work highlights
- Represented SES S.A. with respect to the FCC’s efforts to convert the “C-Band spectrum” from satellite to terrestrial use.
- Advising OneWeb on FCC and international regulatory matters to OneWeb.
- Advised Rakuten, a multinational e-commerce conglomerate based in Tokyo, Japan, with respect to FCC regulatory issues in connection with Rakuten’s leadership in Open RAN technology and its global rollout of the new Rakuten Communications Platform.
Real estate Tier 4
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP‘s practice is angled towards the Californian real estate market, with offices across San Francisco, Los Angeles and San Diego. Aside from its core transactional work, the multi-disciplinary team regularly assists REITs, industrial, retail and residential developers in their equity transactions, and development of master-planned communities and build-to-suit offices. Nancy Scull and Keith Garner co-head the group from San Diego and San Francisco, respectively. For mandates involving radio and television broadcasting studios, tech offices and data centres, Los Angeles’ Pamela Westhoff is recommended.Practice head(s):
Nancy Scull; Keith Garner
Other key lawyers:
Pamela Westhoff
Key clients
Landsea Homes Corporation
HomeFed
Surgalign
Save Mart
Mesa Canyon Community Partners, Lennar Homes, Shea Homes
Lincoln Property Company and Bridge Investment Group
Technicolor USA
Public Data Center REIT
The Related Companies
Castle & Cooke NJ, LLC
Montefiore Medical Center
Oxford Capital Group, LLC
MPF Oxford Thompson Property LLC
Godfrey Detroit PropCo LLC
Continental DTLA LLC
Oxford Portland Leaseco LLC
Dana Hotel LLC
Allstate Insurance Company and American Heritage Life Insurance Company
American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company
West 87 LP
Integrated Development Group II
Artisan Partners
Kraft Heinz Foods Company
CIBC Bank USA
PHRM Holdings
Heartland Bank
Work highlights
- Represented Landsea Homes Corporation, in a number of acquisitions including 306 homesites to create the new community Ellis Town and Country in Tracy, CA, 128 homesites to create the new community, Lavender, in Sunnyvale, CA, and the Alameda Marina master-planned community.
- Represented a joint venture of Lincoln Property Company and Bridge Investment Group in negotiating a large ground lease with the Port of Vancouver in an Opportunity Zone to serve as the basis for a commercial mixed-use development which will exceed 750,000 square feet.
- Advising Save Mart Supermarkets in connection with a $1bn + sale-lease back transaction involving a portfolio of over 65 properties throughout California and Nevada.
Real estate > Construction (including construction litigation) Tier 5
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP ‘s construction practice has strong bases on either coast, and is a regular fixture in public and private projects across the country, with members offering both transactional and contentious expertise. Ira Schulman in New York is praised for his ‘sage guidance that is delivered effortlessly‘ and co-leads the group and has recently been active in the popular areas of private residential and large public projects. From Los Angeles, Erinn Contreras co-leads and is a seasoned counsel to owners, developers, contractors and construction lenders in all stages of developments. Associate Emily Anderson works with Schulman in New York and has professional experience in the construction industry.Practice head(s):
Erinn Contreras; Ira Schulman
Other key lawyers:
Emily Anderson; Michelle Cooper; Sophia Cahill; Tori Kutzner
Testimonials
‘I work with a team that handles construction litigation and disputes which is a highly specialized area. There are three people on the team that I work with- a partner and two associates. They are very responsive and collaborative. They know the subject matter.’
‘The partner we work with Ira Schulman is, in my assessment, one of the leading construction dispute lawyers in the state and the nation. In addition to his litigation expertise, he was instrumental in drafting contract provisions which are very favorable to the county as an owner.’
‘Great team and excellent knowledge of California construction contracts.’
‘Michelle Cooper and Tori Kutzner are great associates and have been very helpful in developing our case.’
‘Sheppard Mullin is a large scale law firm that has brought a boutique firm feel in terms of client attentiveness and support. Its team is a mix of seniority and they are selective in how the elect to staff meetings and projects accordingly, with an innate sense of what is appropriate and/or expected by us as a client.’
‘Of the individuals we work with Ira Schulman continues to provide us with sage guidance that is delivered effortlessly. Ira has that unique ability to draw off decades’ of experience without ever uttering the words “I had this case where,” which I have begun to seek out in my outside counsel. Additionally, Emily Anderson continues to make us feel as though we are one of her most valued clients, and while she may not have decades to draw on yet, her experience is impressive and her instincts are unparalleled in the outside counsel I have thus far worked with.’
Key clients
Digital Realty Trust
Vantage Data Centers
AECOM
Hillock Land Company
Oxford Capital Group, LLC
One WorkPlace Construction, LLC dba Vantis
Sempra Energy
Samsung Engineering & Construction, Ltd.
The Jay Paul Company
Charities Housing Development Corporation
County of Westchester (New York, NY)
LaGuardia Development Partners
WDF Inc.
Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): municipal
Tax > US taxes: non-contentious
Labor and employment > Labor and employment disputes (including collective actions): defense
Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP > Firm Profile
Sheppard Mullin is a full service AmLaw 100 firm with more than 1,000 attorneys in 16 offices located in the United States, Europe and Asia. Specifically the firm has US offices throughout California and in New York, Washington, DC, Dallas and Chicago, and its international offices are located in London, Brussels, Shanghai and Seoul.
Since 1927, companies have turned to Sheppard Mullin to handle corporate and technology matters, high stakes litigation and complex financial transactions. In the US, the firm’s clients include more than half of the Fortune 100.
In addition to the areas of legal practice listed in the sidebar, the firm has numerous interdisciplinary teams focused on such key industries as: aerospace and defence; communications; construction; blockchain technology and digital currency; energy; fashion; financial services; food and beverage; healthcare; hospitality; insurance; and life sciences.
Lucantonio Salvi was elected as chairman of the firm’s executive committee in March 2021.
Sheppard Mullin is a firm that truly puts clients first. And this sets it apart. The firm doesn’t just give lip service to client service. Sheppard Mullin regularly gives ‘Clients First’ awards to attorneys and staff members who ‘go the extra mile’ for clients. Client service is part of the culture and permeates everything the firm does.
The firm recognizes the importance of diversity and the need to create a workplace of inclusion. Law firms need, and clients demand, a team of attorneys that is as diverse as the world in which they practice. Achieving and maintaining diversity is key to effective client service – a core value of the firm. The firm repeatedly gets a 100% ranking from the Human Rights Campaign.
At Sheppard Mullin, the firm encourages attorneys to help pro bono clients. Coast-to-coast, the firm has compiled an admirable record in providing community service and legal services to those in need. The firm achieved two historic victories on behalf of New York City’s persons with disabilities that were featured in American Lawyer magazine. One of the firm’s partners is the recipient of the American Bar Association’s Pro Bono Publico Award which honors those who have enhanced the human dignity of others by improving or delivering volunteer legal services to the nation’s poor and disadvantaged.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Antitrust and competition | Michael Scarborough | ||
Business Trials | Sascha Henry | ||
Business trial | Paul Werner | ||
Business trial | Robert Friedman | ||
Corporate | Jeralin Cardoso | ||
Corporate | Linda Giunta Michaelson | ||
Corporate | John Hempill | ||
Entertainment & Digital Media | Robb Klein | ||
Finance and bankruptcy | Ori Katz | ||
Finance and bankruptcy | Edward H Tillinghast, III | ||
Government contracts, investigations and international trade | Jonathan Aronie | ||
Intellectual property | Dan Yannuzzi | ||
Intellectual property | Laura Chapman | ||
Labor and employment | Kelly Hensley | ||
Labor and employment | Jonathan Stoler | ||
Real estate, land use, natural resources, environmental | Keith Garner | ||
Real estate, land use, natural resources, environmental | Nancy Scull | ||
Tax | Michael Chan |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Mr Guy Halgren | View Profile | |
![]() | Ms Nancy Scull | Nancy Scull is a partner and Sheppard Mullin’s firmwide Practice Group Leader… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of Partners : 400 Number of Other Fee-Earners : 530 Other Staff : 800+Other
Chairman : Lucantonio Salvi (lsalvi@sheppardmullin.com Vice Chairman : Jon Newby (jnewby@sheppardmullin.com) Managing Partner : Robert Beall (rbeall@sheppardmullin.com) MaryJeanette Dee : Managing Partner, MaryJeanette Dee (mdee@sheppardmullin.com)- Government > Government contracts
- Industry focus > Energy: renewable/alternative power
- Industry focus > Healthcare: service providers
- M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: middle-market (sub-$500m)
- Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: transactional
- Media, technology and telecoms > Telecoms and broadcast: regulatory
- Real estate > Land use/zoning
- Tax > Not-for-profit (nonprofit and tax exempt organizations)
Firm Rankings
- Antitrust > Cartel
- Industry focus > Healthcare: health insurers
- Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection)
- Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: litigation