A&O Shearman‘s New York-based environmental group combines deep expertise in ESG with knowledge of speciality areas, such as product responsibility, chemicals regulation, emissions trading, and contaminated land. This broad expertise is sought by a client roster comprising domestic corporations, private equity firms, and government agencies. As the global co-head of the environment, climate, and regulatory law group, Ken Rivlin’s expertise in regulatory and risk issues in transactions has positioned him as a key advisor to corporations, financial institutions, funds, and NGOs. Jason Pratt primarily focuses on the impact of environmental and climate change laws and regulations on commercial transactions. As co-head of the firm’s global producer responsibility and product compliance team, Felise Cooper is a notable name for clients for assistance on compliance requirements related to global substance disclosure, control, and product take-back requirements. Nick Ognibene departed from the practice in September 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘A very strong combination of legal prowess and technical knowledge of environmental, social, and human rights issues.’
‘Ken Rivlin - outstanding advice and understanding of the ESG environment. Candid and knowledgeable.’
Key clients
- U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT)
- Sanmina Corporation
- DoorDash
- Greif Inc.
- EQT
- IQVIA
- Granite Construction
- Coherent Corp
- Chevron Corporation
- CSW Industrials
- Summit Carbon Solutions
- Circet USA
Work highlights
Advised Chevron on developing a compliance strategy for California’s Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act (SB 253), which requires large companies to report their greenhouse gas emissions, and the Climate-Related Financial Risk Act (SB 261), which mandates disclosure of climate-related financial risks.
Advised EQT on its acquisition of Seven Seas Water Group, a leading provider of sustainable water and wastewater solutions, from Morgan Stanley Infrastructure Partners.
Advised the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) as transaction counsel on the State Route 400 Express Lanes Project in metropolitan Atlanta, Georgia—a project with anticipated costs of approximately USD11 billion.
Lawyers
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Leading partners
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Next Generation Partners
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Practice head
Ken Rivlin; Jason Pratt
Other key lawyers
Felise Cooper