Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton‘s antitrust practice is led by Leah Brannon out of Washington DC, and Heather Nyong’o from San Francisco. They are supported by a team of experienced partners who bring both regulatory and litigation expertise. Key DC partners include Jeremy Calsyn, who brings extensive experience in cartel and leniency matters; Bruce Hoffman, who focuses on merger clearance and complex class actions; and David Gelfand, whose decades of experience inform high-stakes civil and criminal cases. In New York, Joseph Kay brings expertise in cross-border enforcement and technology-related antitrust matters, while in DC, Kenneth Reinker and Daniel Culley continue to play important roles in the team. The group coordinates investigations, litigation, and transactional matters for clients facing the most challenging antitrust issues. Recent highlights include advising Cargill in implementing a DOJ settlement resolving employment information-sharing allegations, representing Cushman & Wakefield and Pinnacle in civil and criminal DOJ investigations concerning algorithmic pricing software, and defending KKR & Co. in a $650 million DOJ suit relating to HSR compliance.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'The practice is unique because of its combination of deep partner expertise and a genuine, client-focused approach.'
'The team not only brings exceptional technical skill and experience in complex matters, but also takes the time to truly understand each client’s business and priorities.'
'Beyond legal excellence, they are genuine, good people and trusted partners—approachable, responsive, and committed to building long-term relationships. This combination of expertise, empathy, and integrity sets them apart from other firms.’
‘What stands out about this practice is the exceptional litigation strength and deep subject matter expertise of partners like Joe Kay and Heather Nyong’o.'
'They bring not only technical excellence but also practical, real-world experience that clients rely on in the most complex investigations and disputes. Joseph Kay and Heather Nyong'o, in particular, are trusted advisors who provide strategic clarity and confidence in high-stakes matters. Alongside Bruce Hoffman, Ryan Shores, and Larry Malm, the team offers unparalleled knowledge of antitrust enforcement and cartel litigation, combined with a collaborative, client-focused approach.'
'Their ability to deliver sophisticated legal solutions while remaining pragmatic and results-oriented truly distinguishes them from other firms.’
Key clients
- Cushman & Wakefield
- KKR
- Scott Sheffield
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Leah Brannon; Heather Nyong’o
Other key lawyers
Jeremy Calsyn; Bruce Hoffman; David Gelfand; Joseph Kay; Kenneth Reinker; Daniel Culley; Ryan Shores; Larry Malm