WilmerHale > Waltham, United States > Firm Profile
WilmerHale Offices
850 WINTER STREET
WALTHAM, MA 02451
MASSACHUSETTS
United States
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WilmerHale > The Legal 500 Rankings
Antitrust > Cartel Tier 1
Offering significant agency experience, multijurisdictional capabilities, and a successful record in in avoiding prosecutions and fines for its clients, the cartel team at WilmerHale is well-placed to advise clients across industries on cartel proceedings, as well as representing them in litigation. Thomas Mueller, based in Washington DC, heads the practice, focusing on global cartel enforcement matters with particular emphasis on issues with transatlantic implications. Steven Cherry, also in DC, has an impressive track record representing individuals and companies in federal and state-level cartel investigations. David Gringer heads the firm’s New York antitrust practice and has extensive previous experience from the DOJ’s Antitrust Division. Gringer specializes in complex antitrust litigation, most notably acting for the University of Pennsylvania in ongoing litigation relating to the alleged participation of a group of elite US universities in a price-fixing cartel designed to limit student financial aid. Los Angeles’ Nana Wilberforce handles internal investigations and litigation with a particular focus on price-fixing allegations, assisting clients through investigations, and negotiating leniency agreements with both US and international authorities.Practice head(s):
Thomas Mueller
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team at WH works like a real team. They are always coordinated. Their expertise is very well known and their availability is 24/7.’
‘Steve Cherry: team leader and head of our long-term relationship with WH. Steve is always available, his opinions are very meditated and easy to understand. Facilitates all difficult choices and turns them into easy ones.’
Key clients
University of Pennsylvania
Compañía SudAmericana de Vapores (CSAV)
Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 1
The ‘outstanding lawyers’ at WilmerHale have recently advised in wage fixing and monopolization litigation for clients such as Meta, Santander Bank and the University of Pennsylvania. Senior partner in Washington DC and head of team Thomas Mueller focuses on global cartel enforcement matters as well as investigation and litigation matters concerning price fixing allegations. Mark Ford is situated in Boston and is well-versed in matters concerning alleged monopolization, price fixing, bid rigging and antitrust IP matters across the pharmaceutical, technology and manufacturing sectors. The highly regarded Steven Cherry in the DC office specializes in investigations and litigation, defending companies and individuals in the US and around the world. Perry Lange has acted for clients in the telecommunications, automotive and energy industries in a diverse range of antitrust matters while Leon Greenfield stands out for his experience in monopolization matters. Trial lawyer David Gringer is based in New York and offers significant experience in defending large corporations including but not limited to technology companies, in litigation against the government and class plaintiffs. Jennifer Milici and Dominic Vote joined the DC office from the FTC in March 2022.Practice head(s):
Thomas Mueller
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘WilmerHale has outstanding lawyers. Their people make the difference.’
‘Steven Cherry is the antitrust expert that we contact, he is easy to reach, and his opinions are always on point.’
Key clients
DaVita
Charles Schwab
CMA CGM
Compañía SudAmericana de Vapores
Rohan Ramchandani
Santander Bank
Intel
Novelis Inc.
Heritage Guitars, Inc.
Cephalon, Inc.
Reckitt Benckiser Group plc and Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare (UK) Ltd.
Facebook (Meta)
University of Pennsylvania
Intuit (TurboTax)
Salt River Project
Dispute resolution > Appellate: courts of appeals / Appellate: supreme courts (states and federal)
Ranking among the market leaders for high-stakes appellate work, WilmerHale is widely hailed for the depth of its bench and the reputation of its senior partners. Indeed, for some, the ‘experience and expertise of the appellate team at WilmerHale is unmatched’. The national group routinely appears before state and federal courts across the US, right up to Supreme Court level, and is a particularly dominant performer in the Federal Circuit. High-profile department head Seth Waxman is a former US Solicitor General, who has delivered over 80 oral arguments in the US Supreme Court alone. Waxman recently paired up with Daniel Volchok to successfully represent the justices of the Oklahoma Supreme Court, and the members and executive director of the Oklahoma Bar Association Board of Governors, before the Tenth Circuit in a case concerning the association’s mandatory-dues requirement. The team also leans on experienced practice vice chairs Catherine Carroll, who has argued four cases before SCOTUS, and Boston-based Mark Fleming, who has argued before SCOTUS seven times. Other key contacts include IP specialist Thomas Saunders and New York-based Alan Schoenfeld. Named attorneys are based in Washington DC unless stated otherwise. Danielle Spinelli recently retired.Practice head(s):
Seth Waxman
Other key lawyers:
Catherine Carroll; Mark Fleming; Thomas Saunders; Daniel Volchok; Alan Schoenfeld; Felicia Ellsworth
Testimonials
‘The experience and expertise of the appellate team at WilmerHale is unmatched.’
‘Between the various attorneys, they have successfully argued in courts of appeals at almost all levels, and they leverage that experience to provide practical and circumspect counsel.’
‘Mark Fleming and Felicia Ellsworth are an excellent team. They readily agreed to an alternative fee arrangement, worked well with trial counsel, clearly communicated the options, crafted expert briefs, recruited top-notch amici, and obtained an excellent result.’
‘Mark Fleming’s skill at oral argument was very impressive.’
‘They exhibit a very high standard professionalism in discharging their duties.’
Key clients
J. Stephen Tidwell and Barbara Walls
City of Chicago
Cisco Systems, Inc.
Meta Platforms, Inc.
Justices of the Oklahoma Supreme Court and Members of the Oklahoma Bar Association’s Board of Governors
Apple Inc.
Spokane Tribe of Indians
Daikin North America, LLC
Kenneth Humphrey
Democratic National Committee
Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense
Sporting a team of ‘trial-ready lawyers who think three steps ahead’, WilmerHale merges in-depth white-collar expertise with extensive litigation skills, allowing the firm to advise clients on the full range of related issues, such as internal investigations and government enforcement actions. The firm advises both corporate and individual clients, though it is particularly noted for representing high-profile global companies in white-collar matter and bet-the-company litigation. Working closely with other departments, the practice also excels at matters spanning several practice areas. In New York, Howard Shapiro, Ronald Machen, both of whom have extensive experience in previous government roles, form part of the leadership team together with Kimberly Parker in Washington DC. Further names to note are DC-based William McLucas and New York’s Anjan Sahni. Former co-chair of the practice Stephen Jonas, as well as Robert Mueller, retired.
Practice head(s):
Howard Shapiro; Ronald Machen; Kimberly Parker
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘WilmerHale’s partners are very knowledgeable about FCPA enforcement and provide excellent and practical advice regarding building and maintaining effective anti-bribery compliance programs.’
‘The Wilmer team has great experience with corporate investigations. They were quickly able to understand the pitfalls of the prior investigation and how to highlight the gaps.’
‘The partners in WilmerHale’s corporate investigations practice are extremely knowledgeable about FCPA enforcement and provide practical advice. We regularly consult the firm on a variety of matters.’
‘William McLucas is very strong in dealing with the SEC on enforcement cases.’
‘Anjan Sahni is the most strategic attorney that I have dealt with. He makes very strong arguments and is willing to be forceful with counterparts at SEC and DOJ.’
‘Outstanding judgment; trial-ready lawyers who think three steps ahead.’
‘Anjan Sahni — simply the best of a talented group; tremendous judgment; prescient; calm as a cucumber.’
Key clients
Bank of America
City of Rochester
CytoDyn
DaVita
El Pomar Foundation
Georgetown University
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
Glencore International AG
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Newmont Corporation
Oracle Corp.
Tata Consultancy Services
United States Drug Enforcement Administration
University of Colorado Foundation
WPP PLC
Finance > Financial services regulation Tier 1
Government > Government relations
WilmerHale is well regarded for its public policy and regulatory strength, with lawyers highly experienced in areas such as antitrust, trade, tech and life sciences. The group maintains a strong bipartisan lobbying practice, working with key members of the executive branch and congressional leaders from both sides of the aisle, and is also noted for its congressional investigations offering, often assisting major companies and senior executives with high-stakes hearings. With extensive government experience, Jonathan Yarowsky is sought after for his expertise in legislative and regulatory strategies, as well as congressional investigations. He co-leads the team with Alyssa DaCunha and Joel Green, who together manage a broad practice, spanning crisis management, regulatory investigations and congressional inquiries.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Yarowsky; Alyssa DaCunha; Joel Green
Key clients
Moderna Therapeutics
Work highlights
- Assisted Moderna and its president in testifying before the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations regarding the development and production of Covid-19 vaccines.
Industry focus > Education Tier 1
WilmerHale’s higher education-focused team has garnered a solid market reputation as the go-to firm for sensitive high-stakes litigation guiding colleges and universities through governmental investigations, congressional inquiries, and confronting contentious policy issues. The group frequently defends their clients’ intellectual property, handles major transactions and assists in handling accreditation, antitrust, art and antiquities, cybersecurity, free speech, and employee misconduct matters. Based in Washington DC, the group, jointly headed by educational law expert Bruce Berman, who is one of the most experienced attorneys in standardized educational testing, and esteemed litigator Jamie Gorelick, has expertise handling Title IX, Title VI, and other federal anti-discrimination statues for educational institutions. Alan Schoenfeld has extensive appellate litigation expertise and handles complex class actions out of the New York office. Other members of the team, including Seth Waxman and New York-based Debo Adegbile who leads the firm’s anti-discrimination practice alongside Brenda Lee, are acting for Harvard University in a Supreme Court affirmative action case concerning their admissions program. The group also counts advising on financial aid, federal grants, and on issues related to the misuse of research funds among its specialisms. Preet Bharara joined from the US Attorney for the Southern District of New York in June and in September 2022, Lauren Moore joined the group prior to being Associate Counsel for The White House.Practice head(s):
Bruce Berman; Jamie Gorelick
Other key lawyers:
Debo P. Adegbile; Alan Schoenfeld; Seth Waxman; Brenda Lee; Preet Bharaha; Lauren Moore
Testimonials
‘The team is always comprised of top-level talent who understand the business desires that in-house legal teams have to manage when delivering our legal advice.’
Industry focus > Native American law Tier 1
Combining extensive Washington DC experience with a strong presence in the western United States, WilmerHale is uniquely positioned to represent Indian tribal governments, bands and nations in the most contentious and unsettled Native American legal issues at every stage of dispute resolution, especially at appellate level. With long-standing relationships to various tribes, the team led by Supreme Court litigator Seth Waxman boasts a diversified practice handling disputes about energy resource development, land acquisitions, water rights, gaming, and most notably, tribal sovereignty and self-determination matters, routinely working with tribal groups, members of Congress and the administration on ways to reinforce principles of tribal sovereignty. The group’s expertise expands to tribal white-collar and criminal internal investigation cases, where Tom Strickland is often called upon, next to capabilities in natural resources and environmental law, healthcare regulation and securities law. Several team members have previously worked on Native American law matters in government positions including at the Department of Interior and Justice, respectively. Notable names include Christopher Babbitt, who is active at the intersection of public policy, public affairs, and strategy, representing clients in litigation and enforcement matters involving the federal government and Daniel Volchok, whose Native American practice incudes representing tribes and nations in trial and appellate litigation, as well as counselling in non-contentious matters.
Practice head(s):
Seth Waxman
Other key lawyers:
Daniel Volchok; Christopher Babbitt; Thomas Strickland
Testimonials
‘I think very highly of Wilmer’s litigation practice. They are top drawer litigators, and as such often bring a fresh perspective to tribal projects that are languishing or have run into certain kinds of roadblocks. I have definitely referred work to Wilmer, and would do so again.‘
Key clients
Spokane Tribe of Indians
National Indian Gaming Association
Catawba Tribe of North and South Carolina
North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians
Work highlights
Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (full coverage) Tier 1
The intellectual property practice at WilmerHale acts for domestic and international clients, frequently providing innovative solutions spanning trademark, copyright, patent drafting and prosecution, post-grant proceedings, and strategic IP portfolio development. Attorneys in the team have tech transfer and licensing, litigation, and due diligence experience, and also benefit from expertise in the team beyond the United States to other jurisdictions, frequently working with lawyers in the United Kingdom, Germany, and China. The strength of the team is demonstrated through their impressive client list, boasting the likes of Twitter, Sony, Meta Platforms, Hulu, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. Lisa Pirozzolo and Mark Selwyn co-chair the firm’s IP litigation practice, operating out of Boston and Palo Alto respectively, alongside Amy Wigmore, based in Washington DC, where Brittany Amadi is another key lawyer. Emily Whelan in Boston is the chair of the general IP department, focusing on litigation related to chemistry, biotech, and pharma. Boston-based William Lee remains a key figure in the team, with Palo Alto's Sonal Mehta has vast experience in high-stakes patent and tech disputes.Practice head(s):
Mark Selywn; Lisa Pirozzolo; Emily Whelan; Amy Wigmore
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable and lean team. The individuals have background/experience that is relevant to the matter. Team is responsive to the client’s needs and sensitivities to the different cultures and attitudes associated with a global company. The team is diverse.’
‘In general the core team was very knowledgeable, took the time to explain the issues and the pros/cons associated with a proposed course of action. The team is also always available.’
Key clients
Becton Dickinson and Company
Bristol-Myers Squibb Company
Comcast Cable Communications
Exelixis, Inc.
Genentech, Inc.
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
Hulu, LLC
Intel Corporation
Ionpath, Inc.
Meta Platforms, Inc.
PNC Bank
Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.
Sony Interactive Entertainment LLC
Work highlights
- Represented clients AGCO Corporation and Precision Planting LLC following a jury trial in the District of Delaware.
- Represented Comcast in a patent infringement case brought by NexStep for allegedly infringing nine patents relating to a variety of technologies, including remote controls, home automation, and customer service technology.
- Represented Activision Blizzard in a patent infringement lawsuit accusing Activision’s blockbuster Call of Duty and World of Warcraft video game franchises of infringement.
International trade > CFIUS Tier 1
‘A strong specialist CFIUS team’, WilmerHale strikes the right note with its ‘clear domain knowledge of the CFIUS process and its intricacies’. The wider firm’s signature regulatory expertise and relationships comes into play in its national security practice, with many of its key partners bringing to bear strong government backgrounds and in-depth understanding of internal CFIUS procedures and culture. Most notably, go-to CFIUS expert Benjamin Powell served as general counsel to the first three Directors of National Intelligence; he was at the helm for several sensitive matters over the past year. Additionally, Jason Chipman’s practice leverages his significant experience in working on national security issues at the Department of Justice (DOJ). Chipman, who is ‘committed to building client relationships and getting results’, is advising Kansas City Southern Railway Company on CFIUS matters connected to its merger with Canadian Pacific Railway. Other key contacts in the Washington DC-based group include Stephen Preston, who heads the defense, national security and government contracts practice, and Robert Kimmitt, whose practice takes in national security law, international investment, regulation and governance.
Practice head(s):
David Ross; Benjamin Powell
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A strong specialist CFIUS team. Track record of accurate guidance on likely CFIUS issues and outcomes, provides high-quality guidance throughout process and responsiveness.’
‘They have excellent experience and do high quality work. Robert Kimmitt is excellent and Jason Chipman is very good.’
‘Jason Chipman is highly experienced and has consistently delivered accurate guidance on likely CFIUS issues and outcomes. Personable, responsive and committed to building client relationships and getting results.’
‘The WilmerHale team makes themselves available as needed and has in the past responded to critical time sensitive requests promptly, even while working across time zones. They display clear domain knowledge of the CFIUS process and its intricacies.’
‘Guidance has always been accurate and demonstrates experience from actual filings/relationships. Given our relationship and past filings, the team works at lightning pace and is able to provide guidance on who we should coordinate within our own firm – and often handles that coordination.’
‘The team we work with gives clear accurate guidance with thoughtful recommendations and a thorough view on likelihood, risk, reward etc. Jason Chipman has a better understanding of who needs to be looped in at our company than I do.’
Key clients
Intel Corporation
GLP Capital Partners
Kansas City Southern Railway Company
Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 2
WilmerHale litigates a wide array of commercial disputes ranging from unfair practices lawsuits to Native American tribal sovereignty cases. In Washington DC, litigation department chair Howard Shapiro is a white-collar crime specialist who is currently representing DISH Network in a major False Claims Act lawsuit. Los Angeles-based practice vice chair Noah Levine ‘s practice extends to litigated data breach matters. John Butts chairs the commercial litigation group from the firm’s Boston office, and recently represented T-Mobile in a lawsuit that successfully prevented Cox Communications from launching a wireless service with a rival company. In New York, Hallie Levin’s broad practice extends to government investigations; the seasoned trial lawyer recently represented Reckitt Benckiser in a major trade secrets lawsuit. Boston-based Felicia Ellsworth is a trial and appellate litigator who recently argued on behalf of Harvard University at the U.S. Supreme Court in a racial discrimination suit. Further recommended is patent dispute specialist Sonal Mehta who practices from the firm’s Palo Alto office.Practice head(s):
Howard Shapiro; Noah Levine; John Butts
Other key lawyers:
Hallie Levin; Felicia Ellsworth; Sonal Mehta; David W. Ogden; Christopher Casamassima; Ross E. Firsenbaum; Andrew Dulberg; Alan Schoenfeld; David W. Bowker; Jonathan E. Paikin
Testimonials
‘Wilmer has an incredibly deep bench of lawyers who can tag team on a matter and consistently provide the highest level of legal services to their clients. They work extremely well in joint defense situations and are eager to collaborate and strategize with co-counsel.’
‘Their written work product, in particular, is among the best I’ve seen in my legal career.’
‘Andrew Dulberg and Alan Schoenfeld are superior civil commercial litigators. They are smart, extremely hard working, good strategists, thorough in every way, and a pleasure to work with, even in the most stressful circumstances. I would work with them any time.’
Key clients
T-Mobile USA
Reckitt Benckiser Group plc
Apple, Inc.
Meta Platforms, Inc.
Shell Oil Company
Harvard University
DISH Network
CytoDyn|, Inc.
Navient Solutions, Inc.
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
KBR, Inc.
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
Atlantic Management Company, Inc.
UBS Financial Services Inc.,
Merrill Lynch, Pierce,
Work highlights
- Represented Facebook in an appeal affirming the dismissal of antitrust claims brought by a group of mobile application developers.
- Represented T-Mobile in a trail aimed at enjoining Cox Communications from partnering with any operator other than T-Mobile to provide wholesale wireless services to Cox.
- Represented Reckitt Benckiser in a trade-secrets trial concerning a premature-ejaculation spray.
Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 2
WilmerHale’s deep bench of securities litigators and regulatory enforcement specialists is frequently involved in high-stakes matters involving securities laws and rules of corporate governance actively litigated by government agencies, regulatory bodies and private parties. The firm has a presence across the US, notably in its California, New York, Boston and Washington DC offices. Stephanie Avakian in DC is chair of the securities and financial services department. Michael Bongiorno in New York and DC-based Matthew Martens co-chair the securities litigation and enforcement group. Kevin Muck and Susan Muck in San Francisco represented AnaptysBio in a class action alleging that its officers made false and misleading statements regarding one of the its drugs, etokimab, and in a derivative suit claiming that the directors breached their fiduciary duties. Up-and-coming partner Timothy Perla in Boston worked with Bongiorno to defend IVERIC bio, Inc. in a class action alleging that the company issued deceptively positive results about the success and potential of its treatment Fovista despite knowing that the Phase 3 clinical trial of the drug would be unsuccessful in achieving its primary endpoint.Practice head(s):
Stephanie Avakian; Michael Bongiorno; Matthew Martens
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
AnaptysBio, Inc.
Plantronics (aka Poly)
Velodyne Lidar, Inc.
Renewable Energy Group, Inc.
Zymergen Inc.
Activision Blizzard, Inc.
Embark Technology. Inc.
Former Chief Auditor of Wells Fargo
Sage Therapeutics
Reckitt Benckiser Group plc
State Street Bank and Trust Co.
Karyopharm Therapeutics Inc.
CytoDyn Inc.
Iterum Therapeutics plc
BMW of North America, LLC
IVERIC bio, Inc.
XL Hybrids, Inc.
Work highlights
- Representing Karyopharm in a securities class action litigation filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The complaint alleges violations of federal securities laws based on Karyopharm’s disclosures related to the results from the Phase 2 SOPRA study and Part 2 of the Phase 2b STORM study.
- Representing Activision Blizzard, Inc., a Fortune 500 video game company, and its officers in a securities class action in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. The firm also represents the Company and its Board of Directors in related derivative litigation in the United States District Court for the Central District of California and the California Superior Court, County of Los Angeles.
- Representing Renewable Energy Group, Inc. (“REG”), North America’s largest producer of advanced biofuels, in a pending securities class action in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York and derivative suits in New York and Delaware. The litigation arises out of REG’s multiyear restatement, announced in 2021.
Government > State attorneys general Tier 2
The state attorneys general practice at WilmerHale is noted for its track record handling complex individual and multistate investigations and litigation in regulated sectors, including tech, financial services and life sciences. With extensive experience in regulatory enforcement, trials and settlements, the team features attorneys who have served at the most senior levels of government. Leading the group is the former chief of staff to the New York attorney general Brian Mahanna, who is sought after to assist clients with sensitive and complex regulatory matters at all levels of government.Practice head(s):
Brian Mahanna
M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: middle-market ($500m-999m) Tier 2
The ‘strong and experienced team‘ at WilmerHale ‘offers consistent high-quality‘ advice to companies of all sizes, investment banks and private equity firms, and particularly excels in M&A matters involving the tech, life sciences and financial services sectors. The practice is under the joint leadership of two well-regarded partners based in Boston: Hal Leibowitz, whose notable areas of strength include joint ventures and sell-side M&A, and Joseph Conahan, who offers support to boards of directors, buyers and sellers in acquisitions, divestitures and joint ventures. In the same office, Andrew Bonnes plays a prominent role in public and private M&A deals. In New York, Andy Alin acts for financial institutions, fintech companies, and private equity sponsors, while Chris Barnstable-Brown is noted for his experience in the tech, finance and life sciences industries.
Practice head(s):
Hal Leibowitz; Joseph Conahan
Other key lawyers:
Keith Trammell; Andrew Bonnes; Stephanie Evans; Andy Alin; Chris Barnstable-Brown; Tal Hacohen
Testimonials
‘Pragmatic and dedicated. Not in it to win an argument but to get the deal done.’
‘Very strong and experienced team that offers consistent high quality, takes ownership and initiative and is responsive, engaged and fun to work with.’
‘Stephanie Evans – highly experienced and capable, pragmatic and commercial with an ability to build bridges with counterparties to get a deal done. Manages her teams very well and is present and responsive at the right times. Invests in building deep and lasting client relationships.’
Key clients
TechTarget
Vail Resorts
Brigade Energy Services
Emirate Hospitality Restaurant Management
Gemini Therapeutics
Jebbit Inc.
Nomura
Fortive
Danaher
CoNCERT Pharmaceuticals
M&A/corporate and commercial > Venture capital and emerging companies Tier 2
WilmerHale combines legal expertise with ‘the creativity, flexibility and business mindset that is required in a fast-moving industry like ours’. The firm’s highly experienced team is popular with a broad range of venture capital funds and emerging companies. The comprehensive service ranges from business launch and seed funding through to successful, high value exits, including sales and IPOs. The group has developed a strong track record across many key sub-sectors, including biotech, medical devices and healthcare, as well as fintech, cybersecurity, robotics, mobile technology and digital media. New York partner Gary Schall (‘absolutely instrumental to our success‘) co-chairs the team with Daniel Zimmermann in Silicon Valley. A strong Boston arm includes partners Mick Bain, Jason Kropp, and Rosemary Reilly, all of whom have good credentials in the life sciences sphere.Practice head(s):
Gary Schall; Daniel Zimmermann
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘As a venture-backed start up, we are fortunate to have engaged Wilmer Hale from the beginning. They have handled all aspects of our corporate needs: enterprise set up, several funding rounds, venture debt, contracts and employment law. Across all of these areas, WH has consistently demonstrated not only legal expertise, but always with the creativity, flexibility and business mindset that is required in a fast-moving industry like ours.’
‘Gary Schall and the team have been absolutely instrumental to our success. Their raw intelligence and knowledge of the law is coupled with unparalleled business acumen and a sense of humor when we most need it.’
‘The team consists of a wide range of specialists for every area of law. Personally, I appreciate the prompt response time and good synchronization among lawyers.’
‘Every lawyer has deep knowledge about some specific area, and they give helpful and clear advice to my company.’
Key clients
Immuta
Stash Financial
LogRocket
Spark Capital
Introhive
RightHand Robotics
TwentyEight-Seven
Workramp
General Catalyst
PyrAmes
Work highlights
- Advised Immuta in its $100 million Series E financing.
- Advised Forendo Pharma in its $954 million sale to Organon (NYSE: OGN), a global, women’s healthcare company.
- Advised Adore Me, Inc., a digitally-native intimates brand, in its acquisition by Victoria Secret & Co.
Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection) Tier 2
WilmerHale’s Washington DC-based cross-disciplinary practice converges privacy, corporate governance, national security and litigation in order to navigate clients through cyber incidents, provide compliance strategies and data-related risk evaluations part of transactions. Co-chair of the privacy practice Benjamin Powell advises clients from a range of sectors, including banking, software, retail, life sciences and media on cyber incidents and data breach investigations. Co-chair Kirk Nahra is the key contact for clients requiring implementation of privacy and data security laws on a domestic and global scale. Jason Chipman focuses on data due diligence part of corporate transactions, while special counsel Arianna Evers works with clients on cybersecurity risk and privacy impact assessments.Practice head(s):
Benjamin Powell; Kirk Nahra
Other key lawyers:
Jason Chipman; Arianna Evers; Ali Jessani
Testimonials
‘Kirk J. Nahra is an excellent lawyer who is extremely well-versed in HIPAA and data privacy matters – particularly in the healthcare sector. He is active in voluntary bar associations and is always willing to collaborate and teach his fellow lawyers.’
‘The practice is unique in that it is both well-versed in healthcare privacy issues, but also cybersecurity matters.The practice has built, support, and promoted a diverse team of attorneys.’
‘The team always makes themselves available and is ready to answer questions from the very mundane to the very complex.’
‘Kirk Nahra has consistently proven himself to be a valuable asset in my outside counsel arsenal.
‘I work closely Arianna Evers and Ali Jessani. Both are incredibly thoughtful and insightful. The firm’s team in general makes me feel welcome.’
‘Thorough knowledge of the issues at hand, dedication to get it done right, ability to understand what needs to be addressed in order to successfully navigate a regulator’s request.’
‘Complete expertise over the subject matter and willingness to dig into to learn even more when necessary.’
Media, technology and telecoms > Outsourcing Tier 2
New Yok-based Robert Finkel and Ariel Soiffer, in Boston, are the key practitioners in WilmerHale‘s outsourcing practice. Finkel, a corporate and fintech specialist, advises international corporations and financial institutions in complex commercial transactions, including technology and outsourcing deals. Soiffer focuses on tech transactions and also works on mandates in the life sciences, machine learning and logistics spaces. The pair regularly advise international corporations on global outsourcing transactions, namely payment processing, cloud-sourcing, management platform and service agreement transactions. The firm also works on traditional supply-chain and business outsourcing matters.Practice head(s):
Robert Finkel
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Allegiant Air
UBS
Cantor Fitzgerald
Barclays Bank
McGraw Hill Education
Select Equity
Cincinnati Bell
CSL Behring
Mosaic Insurance
Casella Waste Systems
Work highlights
- Advised Allegiant Air on an agreement with Viva Aerobus that will allow the ultra-low-cost airlines to offer codeshare nonstop US-Mexico flights.
- Advising Mosaic Insurance in connection with its full scope outsourcing transaction with DXC.
- Assisting Cantor Fitzgerald with the full scope BPO outsourcing transaction with Genpact.
Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 2
WilmerHale provides a strong spread of services to its technology clients, including support on VC financings and M&A, through to advice on licensing, outsourcing, joint venture, development and distribution agreements. IP portfolio development and commercialisation is another key feature within the highly experienced team. The firm’s lawyers are also increasingly advising on the cybersecurity and privacy-related aspects of major transactions involving big data. Notable highlights include assisting Factorial Energy, a solid-state battery start-up, on agreements with Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis to commercialize its battery technology. Practice chair Mick Bain is backed by a deep bench which includes Jeff Johnson, Ariel Soiffer, and in San Francisco, Mat Trachok. Steven Barrett is ‘legally exceptional but with business practicality in mind’. All partners are based in Boston unless otherwise stated.Practice head(s):
Mick Bain
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Steven Barrett: smart, incisive, legally exceptional but with business practicality in mind, affable, hard-working and diligent, easy to work with.’
Key clients
Allegiant Air
Analog Devices
CubicPV
Forendo Pharma
Harmonix Music Systems, Inc
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Company
Inpher
nference Inc.
Nth Party
Verana Networks
Work highlights
- Represented Allegiant Air in an agreement with Viva Aerobus that will allow the ultra-low-cost airlines to offer codeshare nonstop US-Mexico flights.
- Represented Factorial Energy, a solid-state battery start-up, on its highly publicized separate agreements with Mercedes-Benz and Stellantis to commercialize Factorial’s battery technology.
- Representing the privacy enhancing technology leader Inpher, in negotiating complex license to use agreements with multiple organizations and their sublicensees, allowing those organizations to share and analyze data in a way that preserves the confidentiality of that data.
Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 3
WilmerHale sets itself apart through its cross-office approach to international arbitration, which sees the US team act hand-in-hand with its premier London practice to provide seamless cross-border firepower in multi-jurisdictional disputes. Well weighted between commercial and investor-state cases, the group is particularly recognized for its expertise in IP-related proceedings, where it can lean on the wider firm's thriving IP disputes offering. Rachael Kent is vice-chair of the global department and has recently represented major corporations in commercial and investor-state arbitrations involving the life sciences, technology and infrastructure sectors, among others. Other recommended names include Danielle Morris, who is noted for her strong recent experience in investment-treaty arbitrations, and John Trenor, who paired up with the London office to handle a string of major multi-jurisdictional disputes over the past year. All named partners are based in Washington DC. John Pierce recently left the practice, while special counsel James Carter retired.Practice head(s):
Rachael Kent
Other key lawyers:
Danielle Morris; John Trenor; David Bowker
Testimonials
‘We value the team for its depth, depth, depth!’
‘The team now boasts many leading and diverse names in addition to Gary Born in London, with stand-outs including Rachael Kent, Danielle Morris and David Bowker.’
Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings
WilmerHale is a major player in pharmaceuticals and life sciences, bringing it a steady flow of capital markets engagements. It represents both issuers and underwriters on a regular basis. While IPOs dropped in 2022, the firm remains active in follow-on offerings, PIPE financings, and at-the-market offerings. Boston’s Stuart Falber is chair of the life sciences group and is active in capital markets offerings, while New York’s Lisa Firenze and Brian Johnson, and Boston partner Cynthia Mazareas are also key figures.Practice head(s):
Brian Johnson; Erika Robinson; David Westenberg
Other key lawyers:
Cynthia Mazareas; Stuart Falber; Glenn Pollner; Lisa Firenze; Molly Fox
Testimonials
‘The firm has a deep understanding of the biotechnology industry, particularly for companies of our size and stage, and a practical approach that permits ease of planning and implementation of recommendations scaled to our needs.’
‘They are not only experts in their field and have a depth of experience that permits them to give practical advice readily and efficiently but also have a good sense of humor and a supportive style. They feel like highly expert team members and are very enjoyable to work with.’
Key clients
Cue Health
Akouos, Inc.
Generation Bio Co.
Xilio Therapeutics
Epizyme, Inc.
Trevi Therapeutics
Verve Therapeutics
Apellis Pharmaceuticals
TechTarget, Inc
Fulcrum Therapeutics
S&P Global
Syros Pharmaceuticals
Blue Apron Holdings, Inc.
Work highlights
- Represented the underwriters in two follow-on public offerings of common stock and series B preferred stock of Viridian Therapeutics.
- Represented Cue Health in its $200m IPO.
- Represented Syros Pharmaceuticals in its $130m PIPE financing.
Government > Government contracts Tier 3
WilmerHale‘s Washington DC-based group boasts a strong track record in large bid protests and is noted for its wealth of experience in IP, government contract patent rights and cybersecurity. Housing lawyers with security clearance, the team is well versed in issues at the intersection of government contracts and national security. Prominent in the defense, tech, aerospace and energy, the practice is jointly led by Stephen Preston, whose past experience includes serving as general counsel of the Department of Defense and the CIA, and Andrew Shipley. Preston is particularly active in advising on crisis management, procurement fraud cases and investigations, while Shipley is recommended for bid protests, federal court litigation and appeals. Other key names include Barry Hurewitz, who handles transactional and regulatory work, and investigations specialist Erik Swabb.Practice head(s):
Stephen Preston; Andrew Shipley
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
General Dynamics Information Technology
Intelsat
Northrop Grumman
Westlands Water District
Trevor Reed
Work highlights
- Assisted General Dynamics Information Technology in securing a a major win after persuading the government to review a contract it had earlier awarded to a rival.
- Acted for Intelsat on three bid protests.
- Represented Northrop Grumman in two big cases at the intersection of government contracts and intellectual property law.
Healthcare > Life sciences Tier 3
WilmerHale’s primarily Boston-based team advises a range of clients, including diagnostic and medical device corporates, universities and research institutions, and investment banks. Practice co-chair Stuart Falber advises a range of public life science companies on capital markets related matters, while fellow co-chair Lisa Pirozzolo acts in Hatch-Waxman cases and licensing disputes, often appearing before the ITC and the PTAB. Based in New York, David Bassett has an IP litigation focused practice, and often contends with biotech and pharmaceutical patent disputes alongside Robert Gunther, who also handles trade secret cases before arbitration tribunals. Sarah Hogan focuses on the life sciences and digital health industries, and has a great deal of experience in the negotiation of IP licenses and strategic collaborations.Practice head(s):
Stuart Falber; Lisa Pirozzolo
Other key lawyers:
David Bassett; Robert Gunther; Sarah Hogan; Craig Hilts
Key clients
Becton Dickinson and Company
Biogen International GmbH
Emergent BioSolutions
Exelixis, Inc.
Gilead Sciences
Inozyme Pharmaceuticals
Iterum Therapeutics
Iveric
Medtronic
Reckitt Benckiser Group
Work highlights
- Advised Beam Therapeutics on its exclusive, four-year research collaboration with Pfizer, for up to $1.35 billion.
- Represented Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (BMS) where the Federal Circuit affirmed a post-trial decision holding that the patents covering BMS’s Eliquis® are valid and infringed by all generics challenging them.
- Advised Mersana Therapeutics on its $1.36 billion global collaboration agreement with GSK.
International trade > Trade remedies and trade policy Tier 3
Trade policy and trade remedy matters are key pillars of WilmerHale’s overarching international trade offering. The team is differentiated by its ability to plug into the wider firm’s thriving government relations and public policy practices and it is regularly involved in sensitive and high-profile investigations, disputes and negotiations. Department chair David Ross is a former international trade counsel to the US Senate and ‘goes the extra mile for his clients’. Ross recently paired up with Jeffrey Kessler, a former Assistant Secretary for Enforcement and Compliance at the DOT, to represent US phosphate fertilizer producer, The Mosaic Company, in a series of trade litigation cases concerning countervailing duty orders on fertilizer imports from Morocco and Russia. Firm co-managing partner Robert Novick is sought after for his combination of international investment, trade policy, negotiation and government affairs expertise; he continues to act alongside Kessler to represent Boeing in the long-running US-EU aircraft disputes at the WTO. The Washington DC-based group also includes special counsel Lauren Mandell, who was formerly at the USTR, where he was a key official in the negotiation of the USMCA and the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Practice head(s):
David Ross
Other key lawyers:
Jeffrey Kessler; Robert Novick; Lauren Mandell; Patrick McLain; Stephanie Hartmann
Testimonials
‘The team overall is outstanding, because lawyers work together nicely and effectively.’
‘Dave Ross is an exceptionally good partner and friend. He goes the extra mile for his clients.’
Key clients
The Mosaic Company
The Boeing Company
CF Industries Holdings
Visa
Sierra Pacific Industries
Etsy
M&A/corporate and commercial > Corporate governance Tier 3
WilmerHale‘s group, which is split between New York, Boston, and Washington DC, comprises former SEC senior staff members and security law experts such as Meredith Cross, and is led by Knute Salhus, Lillian Brown, and Jonathan Wolfman. Standout mandates include advising on SEC and stock exchange requirements, as well as anti-takeover defenses, but a particular strength of the group lies in its pedigree to support clients with ESG risks and opportunities. Alex Bahn joined from Hogan Lovells US LLP in October 2022, advising public companies and investment vehicles.Practice head(s):
Knute Salhus; Lillian Brown; Jonathan Wolfman
Other key lawyers:
Meredith Cross; Alan Wilson; Alex Bahn
Key clients
Activision Blizzard
Agios Pharmaceuticals
Akamai Technologies
Analog Devices
Blue Apron
CIRCOR International
Danaher Corporation
Discovery Communications
Editas Medicine
Generation Bio
Genpact
Hilton
Huntington Ingalls Industries
Kala Pharmaceuticals
Karyopharm Therapeutics
MKS Instruments
Northrop Grumman
PepsiCo
PerkinElmer
Progress
Antitrust > Merger control Tier 4
WilmerHale combines an active HSR practice with strong capabilities in contentious merger review proceedings, handling approvals for transactions in highly-scrutinised industries including defense, healthcare, and telecoms. The team is able to leverage strong litigation and enforcement expertise, as well as multijurisdictional capabilities, representing international and US-based clients in multi-agency reviews and challenges. The team is overseen by Thomas Mueller, who has strong litigation experience and has practiced in the US and Brussels, while Leon Greenfield is noted for his leading role in high-value deals for major clients such as Danaher. Former FTC official Dominic Vote is also heavily focused on merger control mandates. All lawyers mentioned are in Washington DC.Practice head(s):
Thomas Mueller
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Danaher
Charles Schwab
Allegiant
Baker Hughes
Work highlights
Dispute resolution > Financial services litigation Tier 4
WilmerHale has represented several financial institutions, banks and credit card issuers, finance companies and lenders on a range of issues particularly concerning consumer credit regulation and protection. The firm focuses on defending clients against consumer class actions at both state and federal levels and has been involved in cases related to product offerings, withdrawal fees and the Truth in Lending Act. The firm also has experience in regulatory investigations and enforcement proceedings regarding consumer financial protection laws. Franca Harris Gutierrez in Washington DC heads the financial institutions practice, and Noah Levine, based in New York, is a key contact for his defense of consumer class actions under federal banking statues and appellate litigation.Practice head(s):
Franca Harris Gutierrez
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
TD Bank, N.A.
TD Bank Group
JP Morgan Chase & Co.
Fannie Mae
Work highlights
- Represented TD Bank, N.A. in a class action in the District of New Jersey regarding its secured credit card product offering, the TD Secured Cash Card, in which the plaintiff filed suit on behalf of herself and a putative class of other cardholders after failing to graduate from the secured card to a TD unsecured card.
- Represented TD Bank Group in a putative class action over fees charged for out of network ATM fees, particularly fees for balance inquiries.
- Representing JP Morgan in a consumer class action brought under the Truth in Lending Act, claiming that JPMorgan Chase did not send a notice of renewal of complainant’s credit card account that complied with the Act because, he alleges, it failed to itemize his upcoming annual fee.
Environment > Environment: regulatory Tier 4
The energy, environment and natural resources group at WilmerHale has a strong presence on the west cost and handles regulatory matters, transactions and disputes, with a focus on the manufacturing, energy, defense, real estate and automotive sectors. In addition to regulatory compliance, the practice advises on risk mitigation, health and safety issues, and actions brought by regulators at the federal, state and local levels. Peggy Otum heads the team and is a key name for ESG issues, product liability matters and environmental investigations. The team was bolstered at the start of 2022 with the arrival of Davina Pujari and special counsel Christopher Rheinheimer, who joined from Hanson Bridgett LLP. Attorneys are based in San Francisco.
Practice head(s):
Peggy Otum
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘People are responsive and thoughtful, well organized, and direct.’
‘Efficient, fair, direct communication, good experience and advice.’
‘The attorneys at Wilmer Hale I have worked with are top notch. They are diligent and produce a high-quality work product.’
‘I have known Davina Pujari for decades, and have been her opposing counsel on a major environmental litigation and regulatory matter. I am currently opposing counsel to Peggy Otum on a major transactional matter. These lawyers are top notch — at the top of their game, enjoying a very high reputation in the legal community here in the Bay Area and even on a national level.’
‘From personal experience, they are impressive. They are working hard to expand the size of their group here, which may have been the only thing holding them back from larger recognition.’
Key clients
Tetra Tech
Charlie Sammut
Work highlights
- Representing Tetra Tech and certain affiliates in complex and wide-ranging multibillion-dollar False Claims Act and environmental litigation arising from the remediation of Hunters Point Shipyard, a former US Navy facility, which closed in 1994.
- Representing Charlie Sammut in a multi-defendant, complex federal criminal matter in the District of South Carolina under the Endangered Species and Lacey Acts, regarding allegations of wildlife violations. Sammut is the operator of Monterey Zoo.
Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings Tier 4
Finance > Fintech Tier 4
WilmerHale is praised for bringing ‘deep industry experience from traditional financial services and the securities and futures sectors across a range of issues’, which combined with the firm’s deep bench strength, ‘puts it in a position to advise on cutting edge legal issues related to fintech, blockchain and crypto’. The well regarded group embraces a broad mix of disciplines, including regulatory and government affairs, technology transactions, securities and financial services, IP and litigation. The practice is jointly led by corporate partner Robert Finkel in New York and financial regulatory partner Franca Harris Gutierrez in Washington DC. New York partner Tiffany Smith is also singled out for her ‘critical advice on cutting edge issues that often have no clear answer or even legal basis‘.Practice head(s):
Rob Finkel; Franca Harris Gutierrez
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Depth of knowledge and experience makes this team unique compared to competitors. WilmerHale’s team brings deep industry experience from traditional financial services and the securities and futures sectors across a range of issues – regulatory advising, product advising, enforcement/defense, transactional, etc.’
‘The depth of WilmerHale’s bench truly distinguishes it from its competitors and, more importantly, puts it in a position to advise on cutting edge legal issues related to fintech, blockchain and crypto. These factors are critically important to my company.’
‘Across all ranks, WilmerHale attorneys provide thoughtful, actionable advice in a timely manner regardless of whether a particular matter is a routine regulatory matter or a bet the company enforcement case. When more in depth analysis is required, such as a brief, white paper or similar deliverable, the firm produces an extremely polished, well researched work product.’
‘Tiffany Smith really leads the way for the firm’s fintech practice and consistently provides critical advice on cutting edge issues that often have no clear answer or even legal basis (when it comes to emerging crypto and blockchain issues). Her advice spans the range of the firm’s fintech practice, from transactional issues to registrations to enforcement to policy developments, and is my go to for any pressing matters.’
Key clients
Robinhood Financial, LLC
LeveL ATS
DriveWealth LLC
Stash Financial, Inc.
Cloud9 Technologies
SoFi
WEX
Bottomline Technologies
Kindur Services, Inc. (dba Silvur)
Earnest (subsidiary of Navient)
Hilton Worldwide
Work highlights
- Represented eBX LLC (dba LeveL ATS) in its merger with Luminex Trading & Analytics.
- Represented Hilton in a transaction with Adyen B.V., for the provision of payments processing globally and Elavon for the provision of payments processing in Europe.
- Advised Mosaic Insurance in an IT outsourcing and insurance technology platform transaction with DXC Technology Services LLC.
International trade > Customs, export controls and economic sanctions Tier 4
WilmerHale's interdisciplinary anti-money laundering (AML) and economic sanctions compliance and enforcement group brings together specialists in international trade, sanctions, and government relations. With on-the-ground platforms in Europe and China, as well as the US, the team is well placed to provide multinational clients with coordinated global sanctions advice. Washington DC-based senior counsel Ronald Meltzer fronts the team and stands out for his established record in representing clients in the technology, financial services and transport spheres on economic sanctions-related matters. The group also benefits from the experience of Washington DC-based Michael Dawson, who has an emphasis on the technology and financial sectors, and New York-based Zachary Goldman, who specializes in advising financial services clients on sanctions and AML issues. Special counsel David Horn recently left to join the Department of the Treasury.Practice head(s):
Ronald Meltzer
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
- Established a Russia- and Belarus-related sanctions help desk to provide ‘round-the-clock’ sanctions advice to multiple clients.
Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional Tier 4
WilmerHale’s ‘friendly and helpful’ practice offers comprehensive advice in relation to complex M&A, equity compensation plans, and IPO transactions, representing clients across the software, manufacturing, and technology sectors, including notable names such as Analog Devices and Akamai Technologies. Boston-based co-heads Kimberly Wethly and Amy Null, are highly specialized in federal income tax law, nonqualified deferred compensation, and change-in-control agreements. In Washington DC, Ciara Baker advises corporate entities on spin-offs and restructurings.Practice head(s):
Kim Wethly; Amy Null
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Friendly and helpful guidance and advice.’
‘Years of experience.’
Key clients
PerkinElmer
Analog Devices
Amundi Pioneer
WEX
Akamai
State Street
Skyworks Solutions
MKS Instruments
CIRCOR International
Progress Software Corporation
Work highlights
- Represented PerkinElmer in the executive compensation and benefits aspects of two multi-billion dollar transactions.
- Represented Akamai Technologies in the employee benefits and executive compensation aspects of its acquisition of Linode Limited Liability Company.
Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 4
Certified public accountant William Caporizzo co-heads the tax practice at WilmerHale, which counsels public and private companies on the tax implications of acquisitions, dispositions, and international restructurings. The team advises a strong mix of emerging and established entities, particularly those in the life sciences and tech sectors, as well as tax-exempt organizations, such as universities, museums, private foundations and charities. Julie Hogan Rodgers‘ sector-specific expertise further spans financial services, energy, and manufacturing. Matthew Schnall‘s wide-ranging knowledge encompasses partnership taxation and SALT issues, while Palo Alto-based Fred Adam handles fund formations, investment transactions, and financings. Clients also highly praise counsel Meghan Walsh. All named individuals are based in Boston unless noted otherwise.Practice head(s):
William Caporizzo
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The experienced and concise tax team often outsmart their counterparts. What sets them apart is their pragmatism.’
‘William Caporizzo and Meghan Walsh are experienced and pragmatic, supporting us on numerous deals.’
Key clients
PerkinElmer
Kinnevik
Analog Devices
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company
Akamai Technologies
Fortive Corporation
Danaher Corporation
Altiostar Networks, Inc.
Tecan Group Ltd.
Wellington Management Company LLP
TechTarget, Inc.
Kala Pharmaceuticals
Work highlights
- Advised PerkinElmer on its $5.25bn acquisition of BioLegend, a leading provider of life science antibodies and reagents.
- Assisted Kinnevik, a leading European growth investor, with Walgreens Boots Alliance additional $5.2bn investment in VillageMD, a portfolio company of Kinnevik.
- Advised Analog Devices, Inc. on various securities offerings, including $500m of floating rate senior notes, $750m of 1.700% sustainability-linked senior notes, $1bn of 2.100% senior notes, $750m of 2.800% senior notes, and $1bn of 2.950% senior notes.
Dispute resolution > Leading trial lawyers Tier 5
William Lee – WilmerHaleFinance > Commercial lending Tier 5
WilmerHale‘s debt finance practice advises a wide range of public and private companies on investment-grade and leveraged borrowing facilities, including secured term loans, asset-based loans, revolving facilities, and refinancings. The firm frequently acts as counsel to mid-market borrowers and corporations in the technology and life science sectors, notably advising Thermo Fisher Scientific on a $5bn refinancing matter this year. Led from Washington DC by Justin Ochs, the team also has a major presence in Colorado, where Denver-based partners Nathan Moore and Chalyse Robinson frequently assist corporate clients with debt financings. At associate level, Brandt Tierney, who practices from Boston, is also highly recommended.Practice head(s):
Justin Ochs
Other key lawyers:
Chalyse Robinson; Nathan Moore; Brandt Tierney; Erika Robinson
Testimonials
‘We have a great working relationship and the team understands our business and specific needs. This year, we have used them for a 9-figure credit agreement refinancing project, and several smaller projects. We had some challenging covenant amendments that they helped us prepare for and navigate with our lender group, as well. The understanding of and engagement with our business team really stood out compared to other deals I’ve worked in the past.’
‘Justin Ochs and Brandt Tierney are both excellent to work with. Justin has an easy demeanor and has responded calmly to frantic calls from our business team, helped prepare them for tough conversations with lenders, and provided sound guidance on cold calls (no prep). Brandt also has an easy-to-work with style, is supportive of the business, understands our needs, and works efficiently on projects. We’ve actually outsourced more credit work to the firm because we know that they can complete financing projects more efficiently than we can do in-house. I would come back to the firm to work with both Justin and Brandt, if I were to leave this job, and would recommend them to colleagues.’
‘Justin Ochs, Erika Robinson and Nathan Moore are all excellent and personable.’
‘First and foremost, the knowledge of the team is second to none. The commitment to my company and the deadlines we work with makes it a no-brainer to work with WilmerHale. Their team is at our disposal day and night, and weekends as well. They commit to getting the job done, and they do it right. They never push an agenda on you, but rather give you a plethora of options to choose from and give you their full-hearted opinion on what they think about each of those options.’
‘Nathan Moore is by far one of the most knowledgeable individuals I have ever spoken to on the topic of commercial lending.’
Key clients
Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Aquent LLC
Eastman Chemical Company
Educational Testing Services
Eldridge Industries, LLC
Foodology
Iveric Bio, Inc.
Linse Capital Fund I LP
Lookout, Inc.
Medtronic plc
MicroStrategy Incorporated
PTC Therapeutics, Inc.
Stash Financial, Inc.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
Werewolf Therapeutics, Inc.
Work highlights
- Represented Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc in connection with refinancing its existing unsecured five-year revolving credit facility with a new $5bn unsecured five-year revolving credit facility.
- Represented Medtronic PLC as borrower of a JPY300bn term loan.
- Represented Eastman Chemical Company in amendments to and an extension of its $1.5bn five-year unsecured “green” revolving credit facility to include the addition of sustainability-linked pricing terms.
Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate Tier 5
Philip Anker and Andrew Goldman jointly lead the New York-based practice at WilmerHale, which is well known for its bankruptcy litigation expertise, especially in the energy and natural resources, retail, and media sectors, and has been involved in several of the major bankruptcy cases of the last few years. Anker has experience representing debtors, official committees of unsecured creditors, ad hoc groups, noteholders, indenture trustees, and equity holders, and has recently led a team representing Hartford Financial Services Group in connection with the high-profile Chapter 11 case of The Boy Scouts of America Goldman handles bankruptcy-related litigation for a wide range of clients, including debtors, creditors, debtor-in-possession lenders, and distressed asset acquirers, George Shuster specializes in restructuring matters in the life sciences sector, while Benjamin Loveland has a strong reputation for representing distressed debt investors.Practice head(s):
Philip Anker; Andrew Goldman
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘WilmerHale practices at the top of the profession in the bankruptcy/restructuring area and provides unmatched client service, with the expertise and resources that you would expect from a top firm, but unlike some other top firms WilmerHale is extremely efficient and delivers great value.’
‘George Shuster is an outstanding bankruptcy attorney. He stands out for his excellent judgment, his strategic insights, and his practical approach to resolving cases. He is a trusted advisor that I can always rely on.’
‘Very smart, very practical and very tough. Incredibly responsive.’
Key clients
Diamond Sports Group
Edward Lampert/ESL Investments
Walt Disney
Wilmington Savings Fund Society
Hartford Financial Services Group
Medtronic/Covidien
Northrop Grumman
PPL Corporation
Sabre
Casella Waste Systems
NBC Universal/Comcast
Rio Tinto
Work highlights
- Representing the Diamond Sports Group in one of the largest non-mass tort restructuring in the United States.
- Represented Hartford Financial Services Group in the Chapter 11 case of the Boy Scouts of America.
- Represented LVNV after the Bankruptcy Appellate Panel for the Ninth Circuit, overturned a bankruptcy court ruling that awarded a debtor attorney’s fee.
Real estate Tier 5
Based in Boston, WilmerHale practice leans strongly towards life science real estate, representing owners, developers and life sciences companies in their large-scale development, joint ventures and acquisitions around Boston and Cambridge, Silicon Valley, San Diego, Seattle and Washington, DC. Key figures include Paul Jakubowski and head of practice, Douglas Burton.Practice head(s):
Douglas Burton
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Paul Jakubowski is an excellent relationship lawyer and Doug Burton knows his stuff.’
Key clients
Analog Devices
Atlantic Management Corporation
Casella Waste Systems
Dyne Therapeutics
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Work highlights
- Advising Boston-based real estate investment and development company Atlantic Management Corporation in the acquisition, financing and leasing of corporate campuses and other large assets in Massachusetts.
- Represented Casella Waste Systems Inc., a publicly traded Vermont-based regional waste management company, in connection with its acquisition of the businesses and real estate of Northstar Pulp & Paper Co., Inc. and its affiliates.
- Represented Casella Waste Systems Inc., a publicly traded Vermont-based regional waste management company, in connection with its acquisition of the assets and real estate of Community Eco Power LLC in a bankruptcy proceeding.
Environment > Environment: litigation
Under the leadership of Peggy Otum, WilmerHale ‘s energy, environment and natural resources team was recently bolstered by the arrival of Davina Pujari and special counsel Christopher Rheinheimer from Hanson Bridgett LLP. The practice offers clients considerable experience of enforcement, investigations and litigation matters.
- Antitrust > Cartel
- Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense
- Dispute resolution > Appellate: courts of appeals / Appellate: supreme courts (states and federal)
- Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense
- Finance > Financial services regulation
- Government > Government relations
- Industry focus > Education
- Industry focus > Native American law
- Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (full coverage)
- International trade > CFIUS
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes
- Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense
- Government > State attorneys general
- M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: middle-market ($500m-999m)
- M&A/corporate and commercial > Venture capital and emerging companies
- Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection)
- Media, technology and telecoms > Outsourcing
- Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions
Firm Rankings
- Dispute resolution > International arbitration
- Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings
- Government > Government contracts
- Healthcare > Life sciences
- International trade > Trade remedies and trade policy
- M&A/corporate and commercial > Corporate governance
- Antitrust > Merger control
- Dispute resolution > Financial services litigation
- Environment > Environment: regulatory
- Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings
- Finance > Fintech
- International trade > Customs, export controls and economic sanctions
- Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional
- Tax > US taxes: non-contentious