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

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings

Antitrust > Cartel Tier 1

Offering a comprehensive cross-border practice, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is equipped to handle the full range of cartel work, including both civil and criminal investigations, litigation defense, and enforcement matters. Regulatory advice is another strength of the team, which includes several former officials from the FTC and the DOJ. Leah Brannon leads the team alongside Jeremy Calsyn, who specializes in global cartel investigations and defense in follow-on class actions. Brannon is recommended for handling investigations by the DOJ, FTC and the European Commission. Being particularly experienced in the application of complex economics to antitrust matters, Kenneth Reinker’s practice spans an array of industries, including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, healthcare, high-technology, media and financial institutions. Daniel Culley has a track record in cross-examinations of government witnesses and focuses on high-tech industries and two-sided markets, while Brian Byrne in San Francisco is adept in cross-border enforcement matters, as well as antitrust-related civil litigation and reviews of M&A. Experienced first-chair trial attorney Heather Nyong’o is equipped to represent her clients, which include multinational corporations and executives, in domestic and international cartel investigations and litigation. Unless stated otherwise, all mentioned lawyers are based in Washington DC.

Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton maintains a market-leading offering that spans the full range of antitrust litigation, with notable strength in merger litigation and contentious cross-border mandates. Leah Brannon and Jeremy Calsyn jointly oversee the department; Brannon focuses on global merger clearance matters, monopolization cases, and conspiracy litigation, while Calsyn represents clients in class actions and cartel and price-fixing litigation, particularly in the automotive parts industry. Dave Gelfand is a name to note on the merger litigation front, having successfully represented major healthcare and aviation clients in high-profile litigated merger challenges. Heather Nyong’o is another key name for civil antitrust litigation work, regularly representing major multinationals and executives in such cases, while seasoned antitrust litigator George Cary  handles IP-related antitrust work in the high-tech sector from the San Francisco office. Ryan Shores joined from Shearman & Sterling LLP in July 2023, further strengthening the firm’s merger challenge offering. Unless otherwise stated, all mentioned lawyers are based in Washington DC.

Antitrust > Merger control Tier 1

Underscoring its status as a destination antitrust practice, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton remains active on complex and market-defining merger mandates for blue-chip corporates and private equity investors, standing out for its work on  contentious merger-related investigations and litigation. The team boasts strong multijurisdictional capabilities, regularly working with its teams in Europe on cross-border merger control mandates, and excels in securing approvals for deals in industries facing regulatory scrutiny. Practice co-head Leah Brannon is a vastly experienced figure with a track record in global merger approvals. Jeremy Calsyn also co-heads the team, and is active on a host of complex matters, notably representing Korean Air in the DOJ investigation in its $1.4bn acquisition of Asiana Airlines. Elsewhere in the team, George Cary continues to lead on business-critical mergers, while Brian Byrne, based in both San Francisco and Washington DC, handles strategic clearances for a diverse roster of clients. David Gelfand has enjoyed recent success in four litigated merger challenges involving the States Attorneys General, the FTC and DOJ, and Bruce Hoffman, former Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition, regularly advises on significant merger clearance matters and investigations. Daniel Culley is a go-to for business-critical mergers, government investigations, and litigation for top-level clients in a wide range of industries, particularly within the tech industry. Clients turn to both Kenneth Reinker and Elaine Ewing for their expertise across deals in a wide range of industries, encompassing contentious investigations and global approvals. The team was strengthened by the 2023 arrival of Ryan Shores, formerly at A&O Shearman, a prolific merger counsel who is trial lead on the JetBlue merger. Attorneys are based in Washington DC unless otherwise stated.

Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense

The white-collar defense and investigations team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is headed by Lisa Vicens in New York and Matthew Solomon in Washington DC. Vicens is highly skilled at navigating internal and governmental investigations into companies, especially concerning allegations of criminal activity that involves a cross-border element. Solomon is recommended for his skills as a litigator, having accumulated extensive experience in white-collar jury trials across the country. Based in the New York office, Victor Hou, Joon Kim, and Jonathan Kolodner are all notable members of the team. Kim regularly assists companies and senior executives facing criminal and regulatory investigations, while Hou is an expert in securities litigation. Kolodner frequently advises clients on a range of matters such as fraud, corruption, antitrust violations, and cyber-related offences. The team in Washington DC is strengthened by the addition of David Last who joined in July 2023 from the DOJ where he gained an in-depth understanding of FCPA matters.

Dispute resolution > E-discovery Tier 1

The team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton brings strength to representing multinational clients in high-stakes litigation and advising on the full range of e-discovery, data privacy, information governance and investigation matters. Practice head Christian Mahoney, based in Washington DC, is a specialist in antitrust and securities enforcement and is highly regarded for his work in DOJ investigations. New York-based Michael Bohner is noted for his expertise in representing clients in defensible data retention, preservation and production processes. Delante Stevens, also from DC, focuses on regulatory reviews, developing review plans and regularly assists clients with class-action suits.

Dispute resolution > Financial services litigation Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton offers comprehensive financial services litigation to a notable client base of major financial institutions and corporations. The group has extensive experience in antitrust and securities litigation and regularly defends clients in SEC and DOJ investigations. The team is led by Washington DC-based Robin Bergen and New York-based Lev Dassin, who specialize in regulatory enforcement matters and government investigations respectively. Bergen is involved in advising and representing financial institutions and service firms before State Attorneys General and other regulatory entities in cases relating to financial products. Dassin, who previously served as Acting US Attorney for the Southern District of New York, holds considerable trial practice and focuses on white-collar criminal defense alongside civil and commercial litigation. With their combined expertise, the group regularly works on complex, high-value, and multijurisdictional matters. Nowell Bamberger, based in Washington DC, is recognized for his cross-border dispute resolution work in the US and abroad. Jennifer Kennedy Park, based in the Bay Area, is known for her expertise in dealing with enforcement actions, compliance matters, and internal investigations. David Last joined the Washington DC team in July 2023 after serving in the FCPA Unit of the DOJ.

Dispute resolution > International litigation Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s international litigation practice has extensive experience representing leading domestic and multinational clients, including international organizations, trade associations, and corporations across a wide range of industries. Litigators within the team are adept at handling matters including ISDA Master Agreements, loan and licensing agreements, joint ventures, and repurchase and supply agreements. The broader international nature of the firm allows the team to work closely with other practices within the firm. Based in New York, Carmine Boccuzzi’s practice is based around work involving foreign sovereigns and state-owned entities, as well as domestic disputes involving capital markets and antitrust. Also in the New York office, Jared Gerber frequently acts on high-profile complex matters, notably including the highly publicized Vale SA litigation levied by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. The capabilities of the practice are expanding, with the arrival of both David Last from the FCPA Unit of the Department of Justice in July 2023, and Angela Dunning from Cooley LLP in October 2023. Noted practitioners include Jeffrey Rosenthal, with experience in international arbitration and litigation, and Roger Cooper, with a focus on class actions.

Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 1

The securities litigators at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton in New York ‘are focused solely on winning'. The practice, which includes former SEC personnel and federal prosecutors, frequently handles Rule 10b-5 claims and other securities fraud cases, and its experience includes defending Petrobras in the largest securities class action of the last ten years. Practice head Roger Cooper is highly regarded by both peers and clients. He recently worked with key partner Jared Gerber to defend pharmaceutical company Allergan in a case concerning alleged misstatements and omissions concerning the health risks associated with certain breast implant products, securing a rare victory on summary judgment. Up-and-coming partner Mark McDonald is increasingly visible in high-profile cases. He recently worked with Victor Hou on the defense of Brazilian engineering and construction conglomerate Odebrecht S.A. in two private securities actions concerning a bribery scandal that resulted in a guilty plea and $2.6bn settlement with the United States Department of Justice as well as settlements with other foreign governments.

Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s capital markets team is versatile, with individual practitioners at the forefront of industry trends such as ESG, green bonds and SDG-linked bonds. Members of the department also split their time between issuer and underwriter engagements. It has an excellent record in SEC-registered issuances and offerings for issuers that have recently been upgraded to investment grade status. The firm is a leading player in sovereign debt, particularly for Latin American states; it has the market leading Latin America practice amongst international firms. Jeffrey Karpf is a leading name in the market, including in investment grade bonds, convertible debt and liability management, and has close links to underwriters and managers. David Lopez is a leader in liability management and across the debt capital markets (DCM) space. Craig Brod , Adam Fleisher  and Francesca Odell are also key partners. Named individuals are all based in New York.

Finance > Capital markets: global offerings

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is a dominant force in global offerings, for both sovereign and corporate issuers. The firm represents a number of Latin American states in their capital markets offerings, along with other countries in Africa, Europe and Asia. It also advises a multitude of Latin American corporate issuers, along bulge-bracket investment banks. The firm houses a team of former regulators, making it especially adept at advising foreign issuers looking to tap the US capital markets. Sustainability linked offerings continue to be a forte for the department. Jeffrey Karpf has outstanding client relationships and has led a series of headline and immensely challenging deals over recent years. David Lopez is a leader in liability management, including for Latin America issuers. Mexico capital markets specialist Jorge Juantorena and Francesca Odell are also at the forefront of Latin America capital markets offerings. Adam Fleisher  and Duane McLaughlin are key partners too. All named individuals are based in New York.

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, and was active in supporting clients in the wake of the 2023 banking crisis, where it provided assistance with the FDIC resolution process. 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 Patrick Fuller, also in New York, handles bank licensing issues in addition to bank M&A. January 2023 saw the firm augment its broker-dealer specialization with the acquisition of James Burns and Brant Brown, both arriving in Washington DC from Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP.

Finance > Fintech

Geared to handle the full spectrum of corporate governance issues, the New York-based practice Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is particularly well-versed in cryptocurrency restructuring, economic sanctions, M&A, as well as SEC enforcement matters. Derek Bush splits his time between Washington DC and New York and often assists domestic and international banks as well as financial services providers on regulatory matters. Hugh Conroy is often engaged in issues surrounding the Federal Reserve payment system, while Brandon Hammer handles the application of bankruptcy rules, commercial law, and regulatory matters pertaining to digital assets. Julia Knight advises banking organizations on enforcement proceedings and internal investigations.

Finance > Structured finance: derivatives and structured products Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton assists a broad spectrum of clients, from corporate issuers and financial institutions to clearing house and exchanges, be they domestic or international. The firm provides regulatory and legislative analysis relating to derivatives as well as advice on structuring, documentary and tax-related matters. It is also well equipped to advise clients in the development of novel derivatives templates and market protocols. These include digital assets, voluntary carbon credits and sustainability-linked derivatives. Michael Dayan, ‘one of the top lawyers in his field’, is greatly experienced in OTC derivatives matters as well as regulatory and insolvency issues affecting derivative products. He heads the practice alongside Deborah North, who is experienced in traditional and esoteric derivative products, including digital assets, crypto and carbon credit derivatives. The ‘outstanding’ Clayton Simmons specializes in structuring, documentation, and regulatory work concerning OTC derivatives and securities-backed credit facilities as well as other structured products. Brandon Hammer is also noted for his work with major clients on regulatory and structuring work. All mentioned lawyers practice in New York.

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

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, known for its experience in complex M&A and private equity investments, remains a premier choice for advice on employee benefits, executive compensation, corporate governance, and ERISA fiduciary matters. Michael Albano, leading the New York-based team, is particularly noted for his role in high-value M&A transactions, notably advising T-Mobile on its $1.35 billion acquisition of Ka’ena Corporation. Julia Petty offers expertise in M&A, spin-offs, and divestitures, with a focus on disclosure, governance, and shareholder outreach. Elizabeth Dyer specializes in the ERISA aspects of structured finance transactions and addresses ERISA-related concerns for private equity funds, hedge funds, and other financial instruments. The team’s depth and capabilities were further enhanced with the addition of Alan Levine in March 2023, formerly of Morrison Cohen LLP, who brings a wealth of experience in advising on compensation and benefits issues within the private equity and hedge fund sectors. Audry Casusol has left the firm.

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

Fielding a ‘very knowledgeable set’ of experienced lawyers, the Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton practice chiefly applies its sector-specific expertise to cross-border M&A in the tech, media, and life sciences spheres and maintains a roster of leading domestic and international corporations. The team is capable of handling a broad array of transactions, including complex joint ventures and all-cash sale transactions, with its recent caseload notably including the representation of Vale S.A. in a $26bn strategic partnership with Manara Minerals. Kimberly Spoerri specializes in complex spin-offs and minority investments, and Kyle Harris stands out for his work on divestitures. The ‘strong and valued’ Paul Shim leverages extensive knowledge in the corporate field. Aaron Meyers primarily assists with private equity investments, while Kelsey Nussenfeld is also noted as key. In the Bay Area, Benet O’Reilly focuses on restructuring transactions, and Christopher Moore routinely handles transactions in the tech sector. All lawyers are New York-based unless otherwise mentioned. James Langston left the firm in May 2024, while Nickolas Bogdanovich left the firm in August 2024.

Real estate > Real estate finance Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises both lenders and borrowers on major loan originations. The practice is well-versed in commercial real estate finance and advises high-profile clients in their transactions, including representing investors, lenders, funds, sovereigns, developers, and operators in complex multi-state mortgage and mezzanine loan transactions. The New York-based team is jointly led by Steven Wilner, Daniel Reynolds, and Joseph Lanzkron. Reynolds centers his practice around domestic and international real estate transactions, advising both lenders and borrowers. His recent work has included representing clients in joint venture negotiations and he continues to represent Brookfield Real Estate Finance Partners as lender on major loans.  Lanzkron handles a wide range of real estate transactions and is particularly sought out for his expertise in real estate acquisitions, dispositions, and joint ventures. Michael Weinberger left the firm in June 2023, while Aron Zuckerman left the firm in 2024.

Tax > Financial products Tier 1

The tax practice at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton supports global powerhouse corporations, high-profile financial institutions and sovereign wealth funds with tax advice relating to a wide range of financial products as well as advising clients on the IRA’s renewable energy tax credits. The team has particular strengths in advising on the taxation of cryptocurrencies, private equity, derivatives, and hedge fund deals. The tax team, headed by New York-based Meyer Fedida , comprises of Jason Factor , who has extensive expertise in private equity and hedge funds, William McRae , who has extensive expertise in the taxation of equity derivatives and other financial products, and Diana Wollman whose practice focuses on tax controversy and complex transactions. Susanna Parker, who is also based in New York, is recognized for her knowledge of continuation funds, secondaries, and other structured fund investments. Based in the Bay Area, Maureen Linch, alongside her expertise on a wide range of transactional and structuring matters, has significant experience in the renewable energy space.

Tax > International tax Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises multinational clients, financial institutions, investment funds, governments, and individuals on the full range of international tax matters including mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, start-ups, and cross-border direct investments. Practice head Meyer Fedida regularly supports clients with the tax aspects of complex multijurisdictional M&A, private equity deals, as well as fund formation matters. Jason Factor focuses on domestic and international tax aspects related to private equity and hedge funds, partnership and joint venture arrangements, divestitures, private clients’ tax work, real estate, and financing transactions. William McRae has a special focus on taxation of non-US sovereign wealth funds as well as international tax planning for multinational corporate groups, among other specific tax issues. Leslie Samuels‘ practice covers all aspects of international and domestic taxation, including mergers and acquisitions, new financial products and foreign direct investment in the US. Diana Wollman has expertise in international tax controversy issues and complex M&A. Susanna Parker supports clients with tax issues relating to private equity and hedge funds whilst Maureen Linch, who is based in the Bay Area, focuses on advisory tax matters that affect both domestic and international businesses. All lawyers mentioned are in New York unless otherwise stated.

Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 1

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s leading non-contentious tax team offers an integrated global service to multinational companies, financial institutions, investment funds, governments, and individuals, among other clients. The group regularly handles complex multibillion-dollar transactions, recently representing private financial services and SaaS company Stripe Inc. in relation to its $6.5 billion Series I preferred stock fundraise. Practice head Meyer Fedida has an excellent reputation for his expertise in private equity M&A and fund formation matters. Jason Factor‘s considerable experience encompasses M&A, fundraisings, private funds liquidity, and alternative transactions. William McRae advises private equity funds, real estate funds, and other investment vehicles, as well as several of the world’s leading sovereign wealth funds. Diana Wollman offers public and private sector expertise, while Susanna Parker, promoted to partner in January 2023, is particularly strong in matters involving private equity and hedge funds, continuation funds, secondaries, and other structured fund investments. Maureen Linch, based in the firm’s Bay Area office, has notable experience in the renewable energy space, advising on the new energy tax credits introduced by the Inflation Reduction Act. Senior Counsel James Peaslee has vast experience in finance tax matters, with particular expertise in securitization tax. All named lawyers are based in New York, unless otherwise noted.

Dispute resolution > M&A litigation: defense Tier 2

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s securities and M&A litigation group has extensive experience thanks to partners that have served in the U.S. Attorney’s Office and can handle large and complex matters including claims related to directors’ and officers’ fiduciary duties. Frequently acting for special committees, financial advisors, and acquirers in disputes, both in state and federal courts, the firm often appears in big cases in the Delaware Chancery Court. It has a strong bench of partners in New York, led by Roger Cooper who is acting for T-Mobile in class action and derivative litigation concerning alleged breach of their fiduciary duties in connection with the company’s merger with Sprint in 2020. Emerging partner talent Mark McDonald also plays a pivotal role in that case. Cooper also secured the dismissal of class action for Flavors & Fragrances Inc. and Frutarom Industries concerning their integration. Experienced trial lawyer Victor Hou and Rahul Mukhi, who works from both the New York and Silicon Valley offices and focuses on enforcement and regulatory matters, are also involved in significant deal-related cases.

Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has continued to make headway in representing technology clients in equity offerings; it advised Stripe on its Series 1 preferred stock raise of more than $6.5bn, representing the largest ever US equity private placement. It remains at the forefront of US equity offerings by international issuers, especially deals originating in Latin America. It is also noted for its SEC regulatory matters. The firm has worked on some of the largest IPOs of recent years along with a series of large at-the-market stock offerings. Jeffrey Karpf is a leading figure within the team, covering both equity and debt offerings. David Lopez, Craig Brod , Adam Fleisher and Francesca Odell are also key names in the team. Capital markets specialist Helena Grannis was promoted to the partnership in 2023, while Nicolas Grabar has retired. All named individuals are based in New York.

Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton has a significant presence in domestic and global high-yield debt offerings. Much of its debt offerings practice is driven by Latin American clients, including corporate and sovereign issuers. It has a solid record in high-yield offerings linked to leveraged financings, M&A, liability management and restructurings. The firm is also noted for ESG and sustainability-linked offerings. Duane McLaughlin has an established record in high-yield debt offerings, as does Adam Brenneman and Jorge Juantorena, who specializes in Latin America offerings. All named partners are based in New York.

Finance > Commercial lending Tier 2

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s debt finance team in New York is adept at handling acquisition finance, syndicated and directly placed leveraged loans, investment grade revolving and term loans and asset-based facilities. The team is jointly led by Duane McLaughlin and Meme Peponis . Areas of expertise for Peponis include debt financings such as, leveraged loans and high-yield bonds. McLaughlin regularly handles bank lending and capital markets, representing investment grade and leveraged borrowers. Amy Shapiro is also a key member of the team, assisting private equity firms and their portfolio companies on financing matters, as well as financial sponsors in fund and management company financings. The team welcomed Kate Grimm from Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP in June 2023.    

Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate Tier 2

‘Global in its reach and effectiveness,’ Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s New York-based bankruptcy and restructuring department handle complex bankruptcy cases, including advising clients worldwide on restructuring matters that cross legal and geographical borders. The firm represents both debtors and creditors in cross-border restructurings and insolvency proceedings across the US, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia for clients in a variety of industries including crypto, energy and retail. Richard Cooper has a focus on Latin America in restructuring involving companies and countries, while Lisa Schweitzer  has advised a range of parties including corporate debtors and individual creditors in domestic and cross-border bankruptcies. Sean O’Neal has a split practice between creditor and debtor work, both in and out of court, whereas David Botter joined the firm in 2023 from Akin and is experienced in multijurisdictional and cross-border matters for distressed companies and creditors. Luke Barefoot  is noted for his expertise in bankruptcy litigation and cross-border bankruptcy disputes.

Finance > Structured finance: securitization Tier 2

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton advises investors, asset managers and underwriters in a broad suite of asset-backed securitizations, including on novel structures. The firm particularly focuses on CLO matters and is well-acquainted with compliance and regulatory issues surrounding risk-retention requirements. Michael Mazzuchi, who advises on CBOs, synthetic debt securities and CLOs on a domestic and international level, leads the team alongside Macey Levington, whose practice includes CLOs and securitizations of receivables. Within the team, John McGill advises asset managers and investment banks on a range of CLO matters. Amber Phillips is also noted for her work assisting in MBS transactions and asset-based lending arrangements. Nora McCloskey Sines, as an associate, assists arrangers, lenders and asset managers in transactional, regulatory and enforcement matters. All lawyers are based in Washington DC.

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

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s varied case load includes the structuring and organizing of diverse private funds across credit, real estate, infrastructure and life sciences. The firm has a well-established client roster of private funds sponsors, investors and various family offices, and due to the global set up of the firm is frequently mandated on cross-border matters, including recently on Asia- and Europe-focused funds. Practice head and ‘standout’ practitioner Elizabeth Lenas has a proven track record with high profile fundraises, and assists some of the firms’ landmark clients, namely Sixth Street and Sequoia Capital. The majority of the team sits in the New York office alongside Lenas, with key names such as managing partner Michael Gerstenzang, who includes secondary transactions and co-investment arrangements as part of his funds advisory offering, private funds strategist Adrian Leipsic and Maurice Gindi strengthening the firms offering. Jamal Fulton works with buyout, growth and social impact private funds, while Kenneth Blazejewski co leads the firms’ private funds alternative and liquidity transactions practice.

M&A/corporate and commercial > Corporate governance Tier 2

The ‘extremely responsive’ and ‘excellent’ team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton is equipped to service the needs of its high-profile listed clients, advising on ESG issues, stockholder engagement plans and proxy advisory firms, among other matters. The ‘formidable’ Francesca Odell is well-versed in a variety of topics, including complex ESG issues,  disclosure and compliance matters and shareholder activism, and Jeffrey Karpf‘s practice focuses on corporate and financial transactions and corporate governance matters. Both Helena Grannis and Lillian Tsu are well-placed to advise clients on ESG matters. All practitioners mentioned are based in New York. Jim Langston has left the firm.

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

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s private equity practice is active across middle-market and bulge-bracket transactions, especially in the tech, aerospace, and healthcare sectors, and is noted for its ability to facilitate complexly structured club deals, cash-and-stock acquisitions, and cross-border transactions. The team regularly acts as counsel to Warburg Pincus and its portfolio companies in connection with impactful platform and add-on acquisitions as well as high-value exits, and it also advises a series of sovereign wealth funds and other asset managers on their cross-border investment activities. M&A and corporate governance expert David Leinwand leads the New York-based team, which is also home to ‘intelligent, efficient, thoughtful, and responsive‘ cross-border M&A specialist John Kupiec as well as Paul Shim, who maintains close relationships with an array of sovereign wealth clients. Further key contacts include Matthew Salerno, who leads on a large volume of high-value PE-backed investments, and Paul Imperatore, who handles both private equity and venture capital transactions.

Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 3

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP maintains a client roster that encompasses high-end corporate clients, including major financial institutions and international companies which rely on the team's expertise in cases involving breach of contract, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, unfair competition, and negligence issues, among others. Carmine Boccuzzi heads the team out of New York and is noted for his experience representing major investment banks and handling international disputes on behalf of foreign states and state-owned entities. Also in New York, Rishi Zutshi is a key point of contact for disputes involving complex financial issues as well as antitrust and shareholder derivative matters, while Lina Bensman continues to be involved in much of the firm’s high-stakes litigation work in addition to handling complex arbitrations and investigations.

Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 3

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s international arbitration practice draws on ‘an outstanding mixture of seasoned professionals and hard-working staff’, according to sources. Split between New York and Washington DC, the US group additionally plugs into the firm’s extensive global network to represent clients worldwide on commercial and investor-state cases, with a notable emphasis on Latin America. The department is co-led from New York by Ari MacKinnon, who focuses on Latin America-related disputes; he is representing Pluspetrol Resources Corporation in a Spanish-language ICC arbitration initiated by Peruvian state-owned oil company, Perupetro. Department co-chair Jeffrey Rosenthal, also in New York, maintains a broad dispute resolution practice that spans a range of judicial and arbitral matters, with recent activity in post-merger disputes, treaty cases, joint venture disputes and securities issues, among others.

Energy > Energy transactions: electric power Tier 3

Complex, cross border mandates form the cornerstone of the energy transactions offering at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton, engaging with marquee projects and advising multinational energy players across South America, Australia, Europe and Asia. Domestically, the group demonstrates impressive capital markets expertise, working with a stellar roster of underwriters, energy producers and industrial manufacturers on substantial transactions that include first-of-its-kind global green bond issuances for clients. Richard Cooper and Jeffrey Lewis co-lead the practice, with the duo possessing vast experience in cross-border restructurings and financings between them. Chantal Kordula advises global investment funds and international energy producers on asset purchases and key financings for a wide array of projects, whereas Adam Brenneman is a crucial port-of-call for capital markets expertise in the group. All individuals are based in New York.

Energy > Energy transactions: oil and gas Tier 3

A wide number of investors, developers, and oil and water companies routinely turn to New York-based Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton for its team’s expertise in the oil and gas transactions space. In addition to handling complex mergers and acquisitions, restructuring and project financing matters, the team is also actively involved in exploration and production, pipeline and LNG projects. Financing transactions expert Jeffrey Lewis leads the practice together with Richard Cooper, who is known for his experience in domestic and international project finance and restructuring of distressed companies in the infrastructure sector, while Chantal Kordula notably focuses on project finance and PPP transactions, areas in which Adam Brenneman is also well versed.

Finance > Project finance Tier 3

Intellectual property > Patents: licensing Tier 3

The intellectual property team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP handles large domestic and cross-border technology transactions and includes practitioners with expertise in working with software and software-related companies across the country. The team also regularly assists clients with data protection and other technology-related issues arise in the course of their transactional activities. The ‘extremely thorough and intelligent‘ Daniel Ilan oversees the department in New York and has experience advising multinational corporations and private equity firms on IP, technology, cybersecurity, and privacy matters. With extensive experience in high-profile technology transactions, Marcela Robledo spearheads the practice in the Bay Area. In New York, Brendan Cohen and Melissa Faragasso are further members of the team.

International trade and national security > CFIUS Tier 3

Noted for its ‘deep experience dealing with CFIUS’, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s CFIUS offering sits within the broader global foreign direct investment practice. With experience across the full spread of related national security issues, the group guides clients through an array of filings and regulatory compliance matters, through to second-state investigations and the negotiation of mitigation agreements with CFIUS, the DCSA and the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC). Up-and-coming partner Chase Kaniecki specializes in advising on international trade and national security issues, including CFIUS reviews; he is representing Best Assistant Education Online, a subsidiary of China’s NetDragon Websoft Holdings, on CFIUS matters connected to its planned merger with Gravitas Education Holdings. The Washington DC-based group also includes associates Samuel Chang and William Dawley. Associate Pete Young has left the firm.

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

National and international companies across various industries find Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton a reliable choice of counsel when responding to shareholder activists and proxy contests. Activism preparedness advice has been a key area of focus, particularly since the start of the Covid pandemic, and the team assists with a variety of governance change demands. James Langston spearheads the shareholder activism group, with considerable experience in multiple high-profile takeover defense matters. Francesca Odell, head of the corporate advisory practice, is a further senior figure to note. More junior partner Kyle Harris is gaining experience acting for prominent clients from a breadth of industries facing hostile situations. All named lawyers are based in New York.

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

Characterised by a combination of ‘intellectual rigor‘ and ‘deep caring‘, the cybersecurity and privacy team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton handles a range of matters including incident response, data breach litigation, enforcement and compliance. Team head Daniel Ilan is praised by clients as ‘fully up to speed on new developments’, bringing his expertise particularly to issues arising in transactional contexts. Cyber-related compliance and anti-corruption matters are handled by Jonathan Kolodner, who is noted for his experience as a government official. Rahul Mukhi is also a go-to in this area, with experience regarding complex ransomware attacks. Marcela Robledo advises at the intersection of data privacy and intellectual property issues, often in significant technology transactions. All named team members are based in New York.

Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 3

The team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton continues to advise international tech corporations on various cross-border and high-value M&A tech transactions. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach, the group regularly liaises with its data privacy and cybersecurity task forces to advise on transactions involving digital platforms, digital assets, and cloud assets. New York-based Glenn McGrory heads the practice and is skilled at handling cross-border deals for fintech companies. Also in New York is Daniel Ilan, who is well-equipped to cover IP and data transactions. In San Francisco, Marcela Robledo fields considerable expertise in data privacy and cybersecurity matters, while Christopher Moore frequently assists tech clients with high-profile private and public M&A.

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

An increasingly prominent name in the national security space. Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton houses a dynamic export controls and economic sanctions practice that is ‘capable of solving extremely challenging issues in a very efficient way’. The Washington DC-based group is well versed across the full life cycle of matters, from compliance and license applications, through to investigations and enforcement proceedings. Department head Chase Kaniecki ‘proposes practical and achievable legal paths’ and is a specialist in national security matters, including export controls, sanctions and CFIUS-related work—he also advises on customs law. Talented associate Samuel Chang provides support.

Real estate Tier 4

The real estate team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton’s has a strong track record in transactions, joint venture arrangements, and financings, providing assistance to a number of large foreign and institutional investors, particularly on the borrower and operator sides. Over the last year, the firm has also seen a number of distressed assets and restructuring mandates, accompanied with an uptick in mandates relating to marinas and multi-family residential. The practice is led by co-heads Steven Wilner, who regularly represents wealth funds and asset management companies on a range of investments, and Joseph Lanzkron, noted for his transaction and restructuring work. Co-heads Aron Zuckerman and Daniel Reynolds are also key contacts on domestic and international complex transactions and financings. Each of the heads are based in New York.