Paul Hastings LLP focuses primarily on CLO work while also bringing expertise in forward-flow transactions and financings, often involving cross‑border elements. The team is led by Eugene Ferrer, Nicole Skalla and Shawn Kodes in New York, alongside Washington DC‑based Rich Davis. Ferrer and Skalla head the structured credit practice and advise investment banks, financial institutions, issuers and investors on CLOs and structured credit matters. Davis leads the asset‑backed finance group, specializing in fintech‑related transactions, including forward-flow facilities and complex financings, while Kodes advises on asset‑backed finance, warehouse facilities and solar‑related matters. In New York, Matthew Nemeth handles financings, solar financings and forward-flow transactions, often involving solar assets, while Nicole Bright focuses on CLO transactions. New York-based John F. Murphy III joined from DLA Piper LLP (US) in March 2025, and Chicago‑based Megan Roberts joined the team from Sidley Austin LLP in July 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘This team is recognized as a market leader in CLO and structured credit transactions, distinguished by its ability to combine deep technical expertise with commercial pragmatism. Clients value the team’s ability to anticipate regulatory and market developments, deliver under compressed timelines, and provide clear, actionable guidance on complex issues.'
- 'Compared to other firms, this team consistently sets the benchmark for efficiency, creativity, and reliability in structured credit. Their ability to deliver solutions that balance legal rigor with business objectives is what makes them the first choice for leading market participants.’
‘The individuals we work with at Paul Hastings consistently stand out for their depth of expertise, responsiveness, and ability to provide practical, business-oriented solutions. What differentiates them from competitors is not only their technical mastery of CLO and structured credit transactions but also their collaborative approach and accessibility—even on complex issues outside the immediate scope of a deal.'
- 'Eugene Ferrer is a true thought leader in the CLO space, Eugene is our go-to resource for navigating complex legal and regulatory developments. His ability to distill nuanced issues into actionable guidance—even when he’s not directly engaged on a transaction—sets him apart.'
- 'Nicole Bright is known for her precision and efficiency, Nicole manages documentation and negotiations seamlessly under tight timelines, ensuring flawless execution.'
- 'Tracy Feng brings exceptional analytical rigor and a proactive mindset, often anticipating potential challenges before they arise.'
Key clients
- Addi
- AGL Credit Management
- Apollo
- Ares
- Atlas SP
- Bain Capital
- Blackstone
- BNP Paribas
- BofA Securities
- Carlyle
- CIBC Capital Markets
- Citigroup
Work highlights
Represented Octane Lending as they agreed to enter into a forward flow facility whereby up to $700 million of eligible receivables under the agreement may be sold to New York Life, MetLife Investment Management and Equitable.
Advised global investment firm Blackstone (AUM $1 trillion) in connection with forward flow purchase arrangements, and related financing, of $1.15 billion of manufactured home loans originated by Triad Financial Services.
Advised Morgan Stanley, as arranger, on Golub Capital Partners CLO 65(M)-R, a $2,494,700,000 MML CLO reset, managed by GC Investment Management.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Eugene Ferrer; Nicole Skalla; Rich Davis; Shawn Kodes
Other key lawyers
Matthew Nemeth; Nicole Bright; Megan Roberts; John F. Murphy III; Robert Hopkins; Tracey Feng