Milbank continues to be a destination firm for high-end banks, financial services providers, and financial sponsors seeking counsel on a range of domestic and international project financings, acting on both early stage and operational assets. Across power and energy developments (including conventional and renewable energy), oil and gas projects, and natural resources the practice is at the forefront of financing matters, acting in some of the highest-value projects using innovative structures. Infrastructure matters also take up a substantial share of the workload for the global project, energy and infrastructure finance department. Data centers remain a strong focus for the team, with transport hubs also frequently seen in its slate of work. Dan Bartfeld ‘stands out as a preeminent figure in the project finance sector’ and acts on a wide range of power, digital infrastructure, transport, and energy-related matters. He co-leads the group with Dan Michalchuk, whose focus is on the energy and power side. Veteran of the energy project finance scene, Bill Bice is also a key figure, and Jeffrey Leider has project and structured finance expertise, with notable activity in conventional power projects. Digital infrastructure is a focus for Jaime Ramirez, and Roland Estevez is a further contact to note for financial institutions, multinationals and developers. Talia Lake departed to Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer LLP in Sydney in March 2024, and Javad Asghari left in April 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'What sets Milbank apart is its deep understanding of both legal intricacies and the technological landscape of modern infrastructure projects. Potential clients would be impressed by the team's ability to structure innovative financing solutions that address the specific challenges of data center development and operation. The practice's key strengths lie in its multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise in project finance, real estate, technology law, and regulatory compliance.'
  • 'Dan Bartfeld stands out as a preeminent figure in the project finance sector. His work with us on various portfolio company financings exemplifies his expertise and the value he brings to complex transactions. What sets Dan apart is his exceptional ability to navigate intricate financial structures while maintaining a keen understanding of the energy industry's nuances. His approach combines deep legal acumen with strategic business insight, allowing him to provide solutions that are not only legally sound but also commercially viable. I would also like to call out Jaime Rodriguez, who has been a great partner as well.'

Key clients

  • Barclays
  • Santander Mexico
  • Morgan Stanley
  • BNY Paribas
  • MUFG Band Ltd
  • Royal Bank of Canada
  • Valia Energia
  • LS Power
  • Tiger Infrastructure Partners LP
  • First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company

Work highlights

  • Represented Barclays, BBVA Mexico, Santander Mexico, SMBC, NAFIN and Bancomext as lenders and BBVA Mexico as hedge coordinator in the acquisition by the Mexican Government of 12 CCGT power plants.
  • Represented MUFG Bank, Ltd. as Administrative Agent and Coordinating Lead Arranger in the refinancing of an existing credit facility supporting an operating natural gas-fired, combined cycle power generation facility with a nominal rating of 819 MW located in Oxford, Connecticut.
  • Advised the lenders and the initial purchasers on a $500m secured bond offering and related $440m loan extended to Aeropuertos Dominicanos Siglo XXI, S.A., a subsidiary of Vinci Airports S.A.S., in connection with the operation and expansion of airports in the Dominican Republic.

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.

Bill Bice

Leading partners

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

Dan Bartfeld
Dan Michalchuk

Next generation partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Jeffrey Leider

Practice head

Dan Bartfeld; Daniel Michalchuk

Other key lawyers

Bill Bice; Jeffrey Leider; Kyle Smit; Sean O’Neill; Roland Estevez; Jaime Ramirez; Mike Duff; Rhys Howard