The white-collar and investigations team at Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer is co-led by Paul Schoeman and Dani James. Schoeman advises clients on a wide range of criminal allegations, including accounting fraud, FCPA violations, money laundering, and tax evasion. James is particularly skilled at representing individuals facing high-stakes criminal and regulatory trials. Known for his extensive capabilities as a trial lawyer, Barry Berke is recommended for both corporations and individuals seeking a skilled defense attorney for white-collar matters. Gary Naftalis has broad experience advising on allegations of insider trading, financial fraud, and market manipulation. Darren Laverne is a further standout member of the team who regularly defends clients being investigated by the SEC. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction

Key clients

  • Brian Benjamin
  • Goldman Sachs executives
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Work highlights

  • Representing Brian Benjamin, a former New York lieutenant governor, after he was charged in the Southern District of New York with bribery offenses.
  • Representing the former CFO of Silicon Valley Bank, in connection with multiple governmental investigations relating to the collapse of SVB.
  • Representing the founder and portfolio manager for Archegos Capital Management, in a criminal prosecution in the Southern District of New York.

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.

Barry Berke
Gary Naftalis

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Dani James
Paul Schoeman

Practice head

Paul Schoeman; Dani James

Other key lawyers

Barry Berke; Gary Naftalis; Darren LaVerne; Jordan Estes; Michael Martinez