Lisa Vicens > Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP > San Francisco, United States > Lawyer Profile

Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s background with sovereign governments and state-owned enterprises, makes it especially well positioned to handle cases before the DOJ, SEC and Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), and other enforcement agencies. The Latin America-focused team has a strong emphasis on anti-bribery and corruption, including FCPA investigations. It is working more intensively in connection with financial statements and disclosures on ESG and cyber controls; the firm represented Vale in an SEC investigation into securities disclosures relating to the company’s dam safety, resulting from the 2019 Brumadinho dam collapse in Brazil. The Latin America team benefits from the presence of a number of former SEC officials within the firm’s ranks, including Matthew Solomon in Washington DC. Furthermore, the hire of Washington DC-based David Last, the former chief of the FCPA unit at the DOJ, has deepened the firm’s expertise in government and internal investigations. Lisa Vicens (‘vast experience and deep knowledge in white-collar matters‘) is a prominent name in FCPA and cross-border investigations, having represented big-name clients in a series of major engagements. Jonathan Kolodner is another important figure in white-collar criminal enforcement and regulatory matters. Named individuals are based in New York unless stated otherwise.

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.