Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP > San Francisco, United States > Firm Profile

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings

Antitrust > Cartel Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton boasts a dynamic cross-border antitrust practice, adept at navigating complex cartel matters. The team’s expertise spans civil and criminal investigations, litigation defense, and enforcement actions, with a comprehensive regulatory offering supported by former FTC and DOJ officials. The practice is jointly steered by Leah Brannon and Heather Nyong’o. Brannon excels in investigations led by the DOJ, FTC, and European Commission, while Nyong’o regularly represents multinational corporations and executives in high-stakes domestic and international cartel investigations and litigation. Elsewhere in the team, Kenneth Reinker stands out for his skill in applying complex economic analysis to antitrust challenges across the healthcare, pharmaceuticals, tech, and finance sectors, while Daniel Culley is noted for his experience in cross-examinations and focus on high-tech industries and two-sided markets. In San Francisco, Brian Byrne shines in cross-border enforcement and antitrust litigation, including M&A reviews. Jeremy Calsyn adds further depth, specializing in global cartel investigations and follow-on class actions. Attorneys are based in Washington DC unless otherwise stated.

Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 1

With numerous victories against the DOJ, FTC, and state attorneys general, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s antitrust team boasts a strong track record in merger litigation. Renowned for its work on significant mandates, the team handles everything from complex litigation to high-stakes civil and criminal investigations. Recent highlights include advising prominent clients in the media, food and beverage, TMT, and real estate sectors. Co-chair Leah Brannon, based in Washington DC, oversees high-profile competition litigation in both federal and state courts. Also in DC, George Cary and Jeremy Calsyn bring extensive expertise in complex monopolization, merger disputes, and class action litigation. Operating out of the Bay Area, co-chair Heather Nyong’o is a skilled litigator who frequently represents multinationals and executives, guiding them from investigations to trials and appeals. Splitting his time between the East and West Coasts, Brian Byrne is an adept defender of clients involved in class action and Sherman Act antitrust lawsuits.

Antitrust > Merger control Tier 1

The ‘extremely deep bench of expertise’ at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton includes experts in complex merger clearance advocacy and multi-jurisdictional criminal and civil investigations, as well as litigation. Its international reach is significant, often working closely with teams in Europe to handle cross-border matters: a particular area of strength for both Brian Byrne  and Daniel Culley. Leah Brannon  and Heather Nyong’o co-head the team; Brannon has notable experience in global merger clearance, while San Francisco-based Nyong’o focuses her practice on antitrust enforcement. George Cary works between DC and San Francisco, a longstanding expert in the field, while David Gelfand has a practice spanning merger review, civil litigation, and criminal investigations, a go-to trial counsel in complex litigated mergers. Bruce Hoffman leverages his experience as a former FTC Bureau of Competition Director to support clients in highly regulated sectors, and Kenneth Reinker is noted for his expertise in the application of complex economics to antitrust matters; Elaine Ewing is also a key name. In January 2025 the New York team was bolstered by the addition of Puja Patel, formerly of A&O Shearman , alongside the promotion to partner of Blair Matthews. Attorneys are based in Washington DC unless otherwise stated.

Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is a top-tier firm in white-collar defense and corporate investigations, known for its sophisticated approach and impressive track record. The firm has earned a strong reputation for handling high-profile cases with the DOJ, SEC, and CFTC, demonstrating its ability to manage complex matters across multiple jurisdictions. Joon Kim, based in New York, has deep experience in white-collar defense, regulatory enforcement, and commercial investigations. Lisa Vicens, also in New York, specializes in anti-bribery and corruption, particularly in FCPA investigations before the DOJ and SEC. Lev Dassin  , based in New York, has a deep expertise in government investigations, representing companies and boards in complex legal matters. Matthew Solomon, in Washington DC, is renowned for his work in white-collar defense and securities enforcement litigation. Victor Hou also from New York, leverages experience in high-stakes litigation, corporate governance, and securities litigations.  Additionally, Thomas Bednar was promoted to partner in January 2025.

Dispute resolution > E-discovery Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is adept at handling work for a well-established cohort of clients, encompassing the full spectrum of e-discovery practices including document reviews, data preservation and privileged document identification, in some cases using internally-developed AI technologies on investigations by the DoJ, FTC and SEC. The team is spearheaded by Christian Mahoney, who operates from Washington DC alongside valued colleagues Delante Stevens and Andrew M. Juettner. Mahoney focuses his practice on AI, data analytics and info governance with strong expertise in representing clients and handling negotiations in litigation proceedings. Stevens has strengths in handling investigations and regulatory reviews, streamlining document review processes with various e-discovery methodologies to accommodate client resources and budgets. Juettner is also well-versed in advising on document preservation, collection and privilege logging for antitrust matters, securities enforcement and civil litigation.

Dispute resolution > Financial services litigation Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP  is well-versed in complex financial services litigation, frequently defending global financial institutions in high-profile compliance and enforcement matters as well as criminal regulatory inquiries from the SEC, DOJ and other government agencies. The firm also represents several clients in the cryptocurrency and fintech space. The team is led by New York-based Lev Dassin, an expert in handling government investigations and crisis management, alongside Robin Bergen, who focuses on internal investigations from Washington DC. Support is offered by Victor Hou, who holds a focus on white-collar criminal defense, and former Acting US Attorney for the Southern District of New York Joon Kim, who has an enviable track record of representing renowned corporations in criminal and regulatory investigations and commercial disputes.

Dispute resolution > International litigation Tier 1

Widely considered one of the leading US-based international litigation practices, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP is a key contender for complex, high-profile cases worldwide. With impressive strength spanning tortious interference, breach of fiduciary duty, and negligence, members of the team are adept at representing domestic and multinational financial institutions, as well as international organisations and trade associations across all industries. The team also has extensive experience in the anti-terrorism space. Team head Carmine Boccuzzi is based in New York, and frequently defends major investment banks and corporations, as well as disputes including foreign states. Boccuzzi has recently led on securing victories for Bosch in the high-profile Volkswagen emissions claims. In the same office, Jared Gerber and Roger Cooper both have expertise in securities litigation, while Jeffrey Rosenthal acts on a wide range of disputes spanning joint venture disputes, financial valuation, and bilateral investment treaty matters. Lina Bensman acts on ‘bet-the-company’ disputes and class actions, focusing on complex civil litigation across states and internationally.

Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 1

Drawing upon a ‘profound depth of knowledge and exceptional capability’, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton provides ‘strategically sound and practically implementable’ advice to a myriad of large corporates, directors and executives and financial institutions facing big-ticket securities litigation. Informed by a trial-ready approach, the New York-based team, which is led by the ‘practical and insightful’ Roger Cooper, regularly achieves early dismissal of cases, as well as subsequently successfully defending those wins in the appeal process. Cooper has been front and center of several of the group’s most noteworthy successes, including its bench trial victory (and on appeal) for Assured Guaranty in relation to a case brought by Lehman Brothers International Europe regarding the alleged improper calculation of credit default swaps, and a summary judgment victory for Allergan at trial level and appeal, quashing a securities class action brought by investors following alleged misstatements and omissions concerning the health risks associated with certain breast implant products. Jared Gerber was also key to the success on behalf of Allergan, and as part of his impressive level of skill in the securities litigation field has, over the years, secured multiple decisions from the Supreme Court on statute of limitation issues. Other key members of the practice include former prosecutor Victor Hou and Mark McDonald, who is skilled at handling securities/shareholder litigation in both the federal court and before the Delaware Court of Chancery.

Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s capital markets team remains at the forefront of the domestic debt offerings space on both the issuer and underwriter side; the team’s broad experience covers SEC-registered and unsecured notes as well as mortgage and green/SGD-linked bonds, among other securities. Recent highlights for the group include advising Verizon Communications Inc., as issuer’s counsel in connection with the telecom giant’s aggregate $4.5bn debt offering. Jeffrey Karpf’s varied practice sees him represent issuers, managers, sponsors, and investment banks in domestic and international transactions. David Lopez regularly advises on billion-dollar transactions, while Adam Fleisher’s expertise spans offerings and liability management transactions in a wide range of industries. Helena Grannis is noted for her experience in the financial services, healthcare, tech, and retail sectors. Lillian Tsu is well versed in registered public offerings, private placements, and Rule 144A/Reg S offerings. Francesca Odell and Craig Brod are also key contacts in the group. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.

Finance > Capital markets: global offerings

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s remains at the forefront of the global offerings space and offers a comprehensive service to both corporate and sovereign clients, with the group especially well known for its representations of Latin American and Caribbean sovereign issuers. Recent highlights for the group include its representation of the Republic of Paraguay in connection with its $500m and PYG3.64tn bond offerings, with the latter transaction Paraguay’s first Guaranies-denominated debt offering on the international capital markets. Jeffrey Karpf handles a wide range of public and private debt and equity offerings for investment banks and issuers. Jorge Juantorena and Francesca Odell stand out for their strong presence in Latin America, with Odell known particularly for her work for major Brazilian corporates. Adam Fleisher’s varied practice spans IPOs as well as convertible bond and and rights offerings, both on the issuer and underwriter side. David Lopez and Duane McLaughlin are also key contacts in the practice.

Finance > Financial services regulation Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is noted for its expertise in advising both US and international banks, handling matters tied to restructuring, asset management, and compliance with Bank Holding Company Act and Volcker Rule provisions, among others. The practice is also frequently sought out by clients facing regulatory and enforcement actions by the SEC and FINRA. It has been particularly active in advising clients on the implementation of Basel III “endgame” regulations, including regulatory advocacy and compliance guidance for major financial institutions and trade associations. Additionally, the team plays a key role in the ongoing overhaul of the US Treasury securities market, representing a wide range of banks and dealers in connection with SEC rule changes. Washington DC-based practice head Derek Bush offers extensive expertise in Dodd-Frank regulations, bank restructuring, and government investigations. In New York, Hugh Conroy focuses on structured finance and derivative transactions in addition to his work on Dodd-Frank, while Lauren Semrad, based in Washington DC, advises US and international financial institutions on US bank and bank holding company regulatory matters. Patrick Fuller, also in New York, handles bank licensing issues in addition to bank M&A.

Finance > Structured finance: derivatives and structured products Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is retained by issuers, banks, clearing hosues, sovereigns, exchanges, investors, and numerous other clients for its holistic derivatives practice, noted for its ability in ‘bridging practical commercial/transactional matters, regulatory and financial institution issues’. The team is particularly well-versed in developing novel products, and remains a cornerstone of the market for equity, commodity, interest rate and credit linked products, along with swaps, forwards and unconventional carbon credit, digital assets and ESG derivatives. Deborah North  is frequently turned for her expertise in CFTC regulation and OTC derivatives clearing, offering great exence in representing both buy-side and sell-side clients. She co-heads the team with Clayton Simmons and Brandon Hammer, with the former leveraging considerable experience in securities-backed credit facilities, and the latter frequently assisting asset managers, hedge funds, banks and Fintech companies in a variety of regulatory, swaps, repurchases and collateral deals. Michael Dayan remains a cornerstone of the market for sophisticated OTC derivative products, and is often retained for his expertise in margin, commodities and securities regulatory queries and deals.  Brian Morris is also a highly active member of the team. All lawyers mentioned are in New York.

Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises a diverse global client base on executive compensation and employee benefits matters, including complex cross-border mergers, acquisitions, and restructurings. The firm is highly active in high-profile transactions, recently advising GSK on its $1.4bn acquisition of Aiolos Bio and General Mills on its $2.1bn of its US and Canadian yogurt businesses. The team frequently collaborates with corporate, tax, and regulatory specialists to address issues such as incentive structuring, retention planning, and ERISA compliance. With a proven track record of guiding clients through sensitive compensation negotiations, the firm continues to support major players across industries, including financial services, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods. Practice leaders Michael Albano  and Julia Petty  bring deep expertise in complex deal structuring and regulatory compliance, with Albano particularly recognized for his work in private equity compensation.Petty, based in New York, regularly advises on high-stakes corporate transactions and shareholder activism matters.

M&A/corporate and commercial > Corporate governance Tier 1

The corporate governance practice at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton gives ‘practical advice’ to multinational corporations, boasting a strong track record in the technology, financial services, and healthcare sectors. In New York, Francesca Odell and Helena Grannis form the cornerstone of the practice, which covers the full spectrum of governance work, assisting clients with SEC compliance, shareholder proposals, and ESG strategy. The team is actively involved in how the clients run their companies, advising them on matters involving executive compensation, directorial appointments, financial reporting, and non-GAP financial measures. Odell is actively involved in the boardroom of major corporations, assisting them with cybersecurity protocols, crisis management, and managing activist shareholders. Grannis has a broad skill set and regularly advises clients on SEC and public disclosure obligations. Jeffrey Karpf is a commercially astute lawyer who utilizes a multidisciplinary approach in his governance work for clients such as Google. Lillian Tsu handles governance matters in multiple jurisdictions, demonstrating skill in handling proxy battlers, SEC reports, and risk management. Shuangjun Wang splits her focus between capital markets work and helping clients with their ESG strategy.

M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: large deals ($1bn+) Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton houses a destination M&A practice, evidenced by its involvement in complex corporate mandates and high-value global deals across Europe, South America, and Asia. Fielding a stellar client base, which comprises well-known brands in the tech, retail, and telecoms sectors, the group undertakes both public and private M&A of international significance, while also guiding clients through regulatory, fiduciary, and corporate governance issues. Recent work highlights include advising Synopsys in its pending acquisition of Ansys, valued at approximately $35bn. The department is co-led by New York-based David Leinwand, and Paul Shim, who has an impressive track record in advising global corporates. Also in New York is Kyle Harris, a key contact for cross-border M&A and joint ventures, Kimberly Spoerri, who handles complex carve-outs on the buy and sell side, and Kelsey Nussenfeld. In the San Francisco office, Christopher Moore is reputed among tech industry clients, while Benet O’Reilly  assists leading corporations on high-value M&A and private equity investments. Nickolas Bogdanovich left the firm in August 2024.

Real estate > Real estate finance Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton covers the full spectrum of real estate finance matters including mortgage loan originations, acquisitions of a whole host of asset classes. and joint ventures. The firm is well versed in distressed matters, routinely handling significant debt restructuring, the refinancing of loans, and modifications. The team is also increasingly representing clients on the formation of credit and real estate investing platforms. Co-heads Steven Wilner , Daniel Reynolds, and Joseph Lanzkron lead the practice in New York. Wilner is sought after for advice on key acquisitions and investments. Reynolds is well positioned to advise on real estate acquisitions, dispositions, and joint ventures and continues to advise Brookfield Real Estate Finance Partners as lender on major loans. Lanzkron represents both borrowers and lenders and has advised Goldman Sachs on multiple high value loan originations.  

Tax > Financial products Tier 1

The tax practice at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises on a wide range of financial products, specializing in advising on the taxation of cryptocurrencies, derivatives, and hedge funds, thus supporting global corporations, financial institutions and sovereign wealth funds. New York-based Meyer Fedida leads the team, which comprises of Jason Factor , known for advising on M&A, fundraisings, and private funds liquidity, William McRae , whose broad practice encompasses sovereign wealth funds and complex bankruptcy matters, and James Peaslee whose broad portfolio encompasses structured finance, financial products, and financial institutions. Susanna Parker, is well regarded for her work with private equity sponsors while, Maureen Linch, who is based in the Bay Area, advises on cross-border tax planning and renewable energy tax credits.

Tax > International tax Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP’s New York office advises a diverse array of clients comprised of multinationals, financial institutions, and investment funds, on a range of transactions requiring tax structuring and planning in areas such as cryptocurrency, acquisitions, and fund formations. Handling multijurisdictional mandates, the team collaborates with non-tax departments across the firm’s international offices, as showcased in the firm’s representation of Synopsys in its $35bn acquisition of Anysys, and the securing of the $16bn financing for the transaction. The team is recognized for their uncanny ability to navigate and harmonize joint ventures across jurisdictions with vastly different regulatory and practical tax conceptions, with tax department head Meyer Fedida , leading a robust practice concerned with the tax aspects of large multijurisdictional M&A matters across private equity, media, and technology. Leslie Samuels advises on a vast array of transactions, most notably, mergers and acquisitions and foreign direct investment. On the other hand, Jason Factor  handles complex tax planning, particularly within the energy space while Susanna Parker provides advice on cross-border planning to key private equity players.

Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton fields a team which operates across the US and worldwide, advising on a broad range of non-contentious tax issues, including prestige M&A, investment fund structuring, and bankruptcies. The department has broad sector expertise, acting for multinational companies, private equity firms, and governments across the tech, industrial, and retail sectors, among others. Practice head Meyer Fedida is particularly adept in multijurisdictional M&A and private equity issues. Fedida is based in New York, where other key team members include Jason Factor, who is a key name for M&A and private funds liquidity, William McRae, a contact of multiple sovereign wealth funds, and Susanna Parker, whose particular specialism is the private equity sector. Maureen Linch, of the San Francisco office, covers transactional, structuring, and advisory tax matters, and has recent experience in the cryptocurrency sector. Swift Edgar joined the New York office in January 2024 from Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, bringing further expertise in tax matters relating to corporate and capital markets transactions. Victoria Ju in New York is a name to note.

Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings

Being a preeminent player in the US and international capital markets, and a primary choice for issuers, sponsors, and managers, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton fields a ‘lean but very effective’ outfit, specializing in handling complex secondary public offers and high-value IPOs. The team is well versed in overseeing strategic partnerships, share repurchases on behalf of issuers, and multi-jurisdictional acquisitions, while predominantly focusing on the financial services and tech spheres. With the whole team based in New York, Jeff Karpf has extensive expertise in representing investment banks in private equity and liability management transactions, David Lopez is a corporate governance and capital markets expert, while Craig Brod is knowledgeable in private debt and equity financings. Adam Fleisher concentrates on complex private placements, and both Francesca Odell and Helena Grannis stand out for their work in complex issuances and shareholder proposals.

Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings

Overseeing multi-jurisdictional offerings relating to senior secured notes and Rule 144A, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton routinely acts on behalf of domestic and international issuers and underwriters. The practice is well equipped to handle cross-border inaugural green bond offerings and complex high-yield debt transactions, with the primary areas of focus being finance, aviation, and oil. The New York-based outfit is particularly active in South American and European markets, with Duane McLaughlin being highly experienced in representing investment grade and leverage borrowers. Adam Brenneman is an expert in liability management transactions, DIP financings, and insolvency proceedings, while Jorge Juantorena covers US securities law and regulations applicable to foreign issuers. The team is especially knowledgeable on the disclosure and covenant aspects of complex high-yield transactions.

Finance > Commercial lending Tier 2

Noted for its expertise in acquisition finance, asset-based facilities, and leveraged loans, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is knowledgeable of syndicated transactions. Operating out of New York, Meme Peponis’ broad caseload encompasses debt financing and high-yield bonds. Peponis is also a key contact for private equity funds, public companies, and sovereign wealth funds, while Duane McLaughlin is versed in debt capital issues, acquisition financing, and debt finance. Amy Shapiro oversees the firm’s fund and sponsor finance team and is principally focused on fund and management company financing, while Matthew Mao is highly proficient in liability management transactions, equity investments, and debt financing.

Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate Tier 2

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has a lean team that consistently lands major domestic and cross-border restructuring mandates. The US-based team is particularly known for its expertise in international matters, particularly Chapter 11 processes involving Latin American companies. The restructuring group has also developed deep expertise in key sectors such as cryptocurrency, aviation and financial institutions; the firm continued to advise crypto lender Genesis Global Capital on its landmark chapter 11 plan, which involved returning cryptocurrency assets to creditors on an in-kind basis without dollarizing the crypto claims. It remains further noted for its bankruptcy litigation expertise. Richard Cooper has an outstanding record in cross-border restructurings, particularly those involving Latin America-based companies. Sean O’Neal (‘the master of deal-making and negotiating complex commercial deals and settlements’) has made a further impression, particularly in leading the team on the Genesis Global Capital Chapter 11 plan. David Botter retains an active creditor-side focused practice, especially acting for bondholder ad hoc groups and creditors’ committees. Lisa Schweitzer is another hugely experienced practitioner, as are Luke Barefoot and Jane VanLare. All are based in New York.  

Finance > Structured finance: securitization Tier 2

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is a key contact for securitization mandates for underwriters, investors, asset managers, purchasers and others, offering a notable proficiency in both regulatory and transactional matters. The team particularly active in the CLO space, and includes Credit Suisse, Citigroup and Goldman Sachs as part of its portfolio of clients. Washington DC-based Michael Mazzuchi is extensively experienced in CLOs, ABS and RMBS, and co-heads the team with Macey Levington, whose practice is strongly focused on CLO transactions, alongside matters involving receivables securitisations and asset-based lending. John McGill‘s expertise in CLO transactions makes him a strong choice for investment banks, asset managers and underwriters. Amber Phillips remains a port of call for CLOs, mortgage-backed securities, and ABS transactions, while Beau Sterling advises underwriters and collateral managers in various CLO structurings. Jay Kozak is frequently engaged in advising clients on ABS, receivables securitisation, and CLO transactions. Phillips, Sterling and Kozak were promoted to partner in 2024. Lawyers are in New York unless otherwise stated.

Intellectual property > Patents: licensing Tier 2

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP utilizes the deep bench strength of nationwide team and expertise in the tech sector to provide interdisciplinary advice in connection with cross-border transactions. The team’s strength across the tech landscape is regularly called upon to advise on complex and high-stakes IP disputes, including licensing agreements, for multinational clients in the tech, AI, e-commerce, software and finance industries. Daniel Ilan heads the team in New York, boasting significant experience in IP and generative AI. He represents global tech companies in complex tech transactions. In San Francisco, Marcela Robledo, an expert in tech transactions, is adept at advising tech companies in their licensing matters and other deals. Notable figures in the New York office also include associates Brendan Cohen and Jaehwan Park.

International trade and national security > CFIUS Tier 2

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s CFIUS team, which sits within its Foreign Investment and National Security practice, continues to grow its capabilities in advising on sensitive cross-border transactions. The group, based out of Washington D.C, is capable of handling national security reviews on foreign investments, negotiating and implementing mitigation agreements, and coordinating national security reviews across a range of international jurisdictions. The up-and-coming Chase Kaniecki is the driving force behind the team’s activity and has notably advised electronic design company Synposys on a significant semiconductor-related transaction worth $35 billion. B.J. Altvatar is a very active associate, having joined from Covington & Burling in 2023. Altvatar has background experience within U.S. intelligence agencies and is capable of representing clients in reviews, as well as negotiating complex national security agreements. Samuel Chang was promoted to partner at the start of 2025, and his practice spans various industries and all stages of the corporate life cycle.

Investment fund formation and management > Private equity funds (including venture capital) Tier 2

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises a range of private funds, covering credit, real estate, infrastructure, real estate funds, social impact private funds and buyout funds. The group has a particular strength in life sciences and healthcare funds, as well as sustainable environmental funds. Such funds are among the workload often handled by Elizabeth Lenas  who leads the team. Lenas works on key fundraises for the group’s largest clients such as fundraising for TAO Additional Commitments. The group’s deep bench also includes managing partner Michael Gerstenzang, a practitioner who is key for the group’s work on secondary transactions. Additionally, Adrian Leipsic‘s practice covers an array of private fund strategies. Jamal Fulton is key for the group’s feeder fund practice with large clients. Maurice Gindi has large alternative asset managers such as Blackstone among his varied client base, reflective of the wider group’s fund clients who include large global investors who invest in a number of jurisdictions globally. All named practitioners are based in New York.

M&A/corporate and commercial > Private equity buyouts: large deals ($500m+) Tier 2

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises private equity sponsors, sovereign wealth funds, and institutional investors on fund formation, M&A, financing, and exits. The firm provides integrated legal counsel across tax, antitrust, capital markets, and regulatory matters, handling complex global transactions. Team head David Leinwand is a key relationship partner to Warburg Pincus, recently overseeing several transactions in the software and digital infrastructure space. John Kupiec has a strong track record advising on complex, cross-border M&A and is well versed in energy, retail and consumer products-oriented work Matthew Salerno is regularly engaged on public and private M&A, as well as growth equity investments, while Paul Shim is experienced on substantial global carve-outs. Paul Imperatore has a growing practice that includes significant software, engineering and insurance deals. James Hu joined from White & Case LLP in March 2024. Nickolas Bogdanovich left the firm in August 2024.

Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 3

Prominent in cross-border commercial litigation, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s international clientele encompasses multinational financial institutions, trade associations, foreign states, and state-owned investments. The New York-based team’s broad practice sees it regularly handle disputes related to a range of commercial contracts and instruments, as well as fraud, unfair competition and other business liability disputes. Carmine Boccuzzi co-leads the general commercial litigation team, and his international disputes practice sees him represent clients in matters often involving foreign states and state-owned entities. An expert in complex financial products and markets, Rishi Zutshi is active in shareholder derivative actions, bankruptcy cases and antitrust disputes. Lina Bensman focuses on breach of contract, fraud and consumer claims, while Abena Mainoo is a go to for advice on investigations, including related to financial crimes and environmental law matters.

Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 3

The practice at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is characterized by its 'profound depth of knowledge and exceptional capability’, acting on a wide range of complex commercial and investment treaty arbitrations. The team regularly represents Fortune 500 companies, financial institutions, governments, and high-net-worth individuals, recently successfully representing Pluspetrol Peru Corporation in a US $130 million award ICC arbitration, and the Republic of Argentina in a number of lawsuits across US jurisdictions. The practice, which operates out of New York, is led by Ari MacKinnon and Jeffrey Rosenthal, with experience in Latin American and corruption matters, and commercial arbitration respectively. Carmine Boccuzzi has a practice focusing on arbitration linked to foreign sovereign states and state-owned entities, while John Blackman  specialises in commercial arbitration and public international law issues. Boaz Morag and Katie Gonzalez are noted.

Dispute resolution > M&A litigation: defense Tier 3

The team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is adept at tackling shareholder suits tied to M&A deals and allegations of breaches of fiduciary duties by directors and officers, with experience in pleading cases before state and federal courts, including the Delaware Court of Chancery. Leading the practice out of the New York office is Roger Cooper, who has a strong track record for corporate defendants in shareholder class actions, derivative actions tied to both mergers and perceived failures of governance. Currently he is defending T-Mobile USA in a case brought by a stockholder alleging that certain officers breached fiduciary duties in the 2020 merger with Sprint. Another member of the core team is Mark McDonald, who handles both securities and shareholder litigation. In addition to assisting Cooper on the T-Mobile matter, McDonald also represents OCI N.V. in relation to a claim brought by joint venture partner Proman, following the former’s sale of its methanol business.

Energy > Energy transactions: electric power Tier 3

Energy > Energy transactions: oil and gas Tier 3

Finance > Fintech Tier 3

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton excels in representing clients in SEC investigations and civil litigation within the fintech sector, while also offering significant experience in digital asset financing, structuring, and a wide range of corporate matters. Derek Bush splits his time between New York and Washington DC, advising financial service providers and foreign sovereigns on U.S. banking regulations, including digital asset activities and fintech arrangements. In New York, David Lopez and Hugh Conroy are key partners, with the latter leading the firm’s digital assets group and focusing on merging new technologies with traditional banking frameworks. Also based in New York, Brandon Hammer deals with financial regulatory, market infrastructure, bankruptcy, and creditors’ rights issues, while operating out of DC, Matthew Solomons is an expert in high-profile digital asset disputes, regularly handling enforcement and litigation matters.  

M&A/corporate and commercial > Shareholder activism Tier 3

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s New York-based shareholder activism practice is skilled in both reacting to and preparing for shareholder activist campaigns, leading on proxy contests and takeover defense in addition to guiding clients through the ever-changing range of demands made by activist groups concerning changes in governance, board structure and composition, as well as providing advice on new activist tactics. The practice co-chairs are Kyle Harris, who focuses primarily activist campaign defense and preparation and is valued by clients in the consumer products, healthcare, industrials and TMT industries, and the highly experienced Paul Shim, who specializes in corporate governance matters. Francesca Odell leads on succession management, complex ESG governance issues, and shareholder engagement and proposals.

Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection) Tier 3

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is highly knowledgeable of the privacy and data security issues surrounding major M&A transactions across industries. The firm is also well-versed in providing support in incident response, data breach litigation, enforcement actions and corporate governance. Working from the New York office, practice head Daniel Ilan specializes in data, AI and tech transactions for major multinational corporations and private equity firms. Marcela Robledo is based in San Francisco and maintains expertise in data privacy for tech companies. Melissa Faragasso brings experience in AI-related matters, while New York-based Rahul Mukhi focuses on cybersecurity issues, from data breach and ransomware attacks to regulator inquiries. Also in New York, Jonathan Kolodner supports clients in cyber compliance programs.

Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 3

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has a track record in handling complex, high-value technology transactions with global reach. With offices in key US tech hubs like Palo Alto and San Francisco, it provides sophisticated legal guidance in AI, digital assets, and cloud computing. It regularly manages large technology M&A deals while navigating regulatory challenges with the SEC, FTC, and DOJ. In New York, Daniel Ilan advises global tech companies on IP, generative AI, and data issues, with clients including Google, Synopsys, and T-Mobile. In San Francisco, Marcela Robledo leads high-profile technology transactions, including Instacart’s strategic partnership with Uber Eats.

Finance > Project finance Tier 4

Intellectual property > Copyright Tier 4

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton leverages the bench strength of its nationwide practice, having recently opened an office in Bay Area, in supporting tech clients in high-stakes IP disputes. Angela Dunning leads the team in Bay Area, drawing on trial experience in federal appellate courts and before the US Court of Appeals to represent blue-chips in tech such as Meta Platforms, MidJourney, AliExpress and Google in copyright disputes.

International trade and national security > Customs, export controls and economic sanctions Tier 4

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has experience counseling multinational companies, financial institutions, and sovereign bodies on a range of issues relating to economic sanctions and export controls. With the ability to identify and mitigate compliance risks through internal reviews, investigation advice, and licensing procedures, the firm has been particularly active with proceedings relating to Russian sanctions. Washington DC-based Chase Kaniecki leads the team and has been advising both domestic and international clients across industries such as technology and energy. Kaniecki is supported by Yulia Solomakhina, a special counsel based in New York with notable expertise on Russian sanctions, and Samuel Chang who was promoted to partner at the start of 2025.

Real estate Tier 4

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s real estate group is a New York-based team with a record of advising clients on high-profile real estate acquisitions, dispositions, joint ventures, financings, and restructurings. Recently, the firm has pivoted to handle workouts and restructurings for distressed assets struggling in the market. The team is led by a strong team, including Daniel Reynolds, who is a specialist in domestic and international real estate transactions, particularly those involving financing aspects. Fellow co-head Joseph Lanzkron represents clients on complex real estate financings, debt restructurings, and joint ventures. Adding to the strength of the leadership team is co-head Steven Wilner, who has a focus on assisting sovereign wealth funds.

Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: design Tier 5

Representing a large range of public and private companies compensation, benefit and retirement plan matters, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s practice specializes in design matters amid the context of corporate transactions, also providing fiduciary and compliance training. Practice chair Michael Albano leads on executive compensation and corporate governance matters, with particular expertise in equity compensation scheme design and implementation. Elizabeth Dyer is the group’s ERISA expert, counselling pension plan sponsors and trustees on ERISA compliance matters, and Julia Petty works on cross-border matters providing securities, tax and governance advice regarding compensation and benefit plans. All attorneys are based in New York.