The ‘incredibly knowledgeable’ M&A practice at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP is well versed in handling big-ticket high-profile matters across a diverse array of industries, with notable work in the media and entertainment, financial services and consumer goods sectors. Practice head Eric Swedenburg, based in New York, possesses extensive transactional experience, handling the full range of corporate work including acquisitions, divestitures and shareholder activism. Anthony Vernace focuses his expertise on public takeovers with a strong presence in the media and entertainment sector. The team can further rely on the transactional experience of Lee Meyerson and Alan Klein. Katherine Krause is relied upon by a number of private equity clients, particularly for her expertise in the infrastructure space, while Jakob Rendtorff is noted for his experience in public and private M&A, handling leveraged buyouts, joint ventures and spin-offs.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The folks on the Simpson team were incredibly knowledgeable, attentive and responsive. They assembled a deep bench of resources as needed and were always ahead of matters. We felt very confident that nothing would be missed.’
  • ‘I was impressed by Eric Swedenburg. He understood the company and its business and had the historical context that allowed them deliver valuable insights.’
  • ‘Anthony Vernace is one of the best M&A attorneys in the country, with well rounded experience in both private and public M&A. He is thoughtful, gives direct and practical advice, and is a zealous advocate for his client.’
  • ‘Best full-service firm in the business.’
  • 'The attorneys we work with are exceptional in every way. They are well educated, understand the market, provide business-friendly service and are responsive.’
  • ‘Eric Swedenburg and Mark Viera. Excellent, excellent attorneys.’

Key clients

  • Advanced Instruments
  • American Electric Power Company
  • Apria
  • Ascensus
  • Avalara
  • Beacon Roofing Supply
  • BellRing Brands
  • Bentley Systems
  • BlackRock
  • Bright Health Group
  • CB Richard Ellis Services
  • Change Healthcare

Work highlights

Advised Paramount Global in its $28 billion merger with Skydance Media.
Advised TD Bank in its $14.4B sale of Charles Schwab stock.
Advised Beacon Roofing Supply in its $11 billion acquisition by QXO.

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.

Leading partners

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

Practice head

Eric Swedenburg

Other key lawyers

Anthony Vernace; Lee Meyerson; Alan Klein; Katherine Krause; Jakob Rendtorff; Mark Viera