Praised by clients as the 'absolute top tier for equity derivatives,' the derivatives team at Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton operates across the healthcare, fintech, banking, and oil‑and‑gas sectors, with particularly deep strength in financial services. The group's roster of clients includes Coinbase, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. The group is jointly led by Deborah North, Clayton Simmons, and Brandon Hammer. North handles a broad spectrum of derivatives and structured finance transactions, with notable experience in regulatory matters, cross‑border security arrangements and stock lending structures. North regularly engages with the SEC and CFTC, and is regarded as a 'standout partner' who is 'sharp, tailored and incredibly commercial.' Clayton Simmons, described by clients as an 'incredible sharp attorney,' focuses on the equity side of the practice, advising on accelerated share purchase transactions, bilateral repo arrangements and securities‑backed credit facilities. Hammer is frequently involved in financial regulatory and digital asset matters, while Brian Morris is a key contact for commodities and derivatives regulation, often advising banks and other financial institutions. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘This practice—especially Brandon Hammer—has been exceptional when it comes to providing holistic advice across an array of complicated subjects and areas of law. In particular, their counsel has been impressive for being able to collate feedback from bankruptcy experts, credit transaction experts, and brokerage experts.'
'Few places are a "one-stop shop" but Cleary stands out in this regard. On top of that, the "customer service" experience is unparalleled, particularly in an era where that has been devalued and deprioritized.’
‘Brandon Hammer and his team are incredibly client-oriented, thoughtful, and efficient. They are responsive and communicate clear deadlines that they then meet. They are valued partners.'
‘Cleary is the absolute top tier for equity derivatives. Clayton is one of the most careful, thoughtful practitioners. He always puts in the extra effort, going above and beyond to give you pointed legal advice and immaculate documentation.'
‘Clayton Simmons is an incredible sharp attorney, who provides thoughtful advice that balances legal analysis with commercial knowledge. He is always available to discuss a legal question, and he never makes clients feel silly for asking. His entire team includes careful and meticulous drafters—I am always astonished by the high quality of legal work.'
'I also love working with Guillaume Renaud and Peter Zhang. For bankruptcy advice, Brandon Hammer is an absolute star. He is extremely knowledgeable, and he provides quick answers to difficult questions. He has patiently explained complicated legal issues. He is a real asset to the firm.’
Key clients
- Bank of America
- Blackstone
- Canadian Derivatives Clearing Corporation (CDCC)
- Cantor Fitzgerald
- Cboe Global Markets, Inc.
- Citadel
- Citigroup/Citibank
- Clear Street
- Coinbase
- Credit Suisse
- Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC)
- FalconX
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Brandon Hammer
Clayton Simmons
Practice head
Deborah North; Clayton Simmons; Brandon Hammer
Other key lawyers
Brian Morris; Guillaume Renaud; Peter Zhang