Based in Chicago, the tech and IP transactions practice at Kirkland & Ellis LLP is involved in large and complex BPO and ITO deals spanning a diverse range of industry sectors, whether they are legacy deals being addressed as part of corporate M&A or joint venture transactions, or new and innovative deals centred on the latest advances in technology. Veteran partners Gregg Kirchhoefer and Neil Hirshman are the lynchpins of the practice. Hirshman recently acted for a global cybersecurity company based on the West Coast in a partnership with a leading tech company to provide AI-powered security provision. Emerging partner talent Todd Herst‘s broad practice encompasses complex tech, IP, and data-related deals, including M&A and outsourcing arrangements. Kevin Jacobsen is another up-and-coming partner with extensive experience in transfer agreements, SaaS, and tech development matters.
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Key clients

  • Charter Communications
  • Castlelake, L.P.
  • Palo Alto Networks

Work highlights

  • Advised Charter Communications, a broadband connectivity company and cable operator, on its joint venture with Comcast Corporation, a global media and technology company, to develop and offer a next-generation streaming platform on a variety of branded 4K streaming devices and smart TVs.
  • Advised Palo Alto Networks, global cybersecurity company, on a broad-reaching partnership with IBM that will deliver AI-powered security outcomes to customers.
  • Advising Castlelake, L.P., a global alternative investment manager specializing in asset-backed private credit, on the creation of a Bermuda-licensed reinsurance company, Itasca Re Limited.

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.

Next generation partners

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

Other key lawyers

Neil Hirshman, Gregg Kirchhoefer, Todd Herst, Kevin Jacobsen