Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP is a prominent adviser to buy-side clients on the full range of ITO and BPO transactions, though it also acts for some large vendor clients. Barbara Melby in Philadelphia leads the technology transactions, outsourcing, and commercial contracts practice along with Doneld Shelkey in Boston, who has in-depth knowledge of cutting-edge technologies such as cloud, robotics, data analytics, NFTs, and blockchain. In Houston, Vito Petretti is the go-to lawyer for complex ITO matters, having handled matters with a combined value in excess of $2.5bn in 2024. The firm recently hired Marina Aronchik in Chicago from Mayer Brown, adding valuable skills in data, digital services, outsourcing, and software transactions, particularly SaaS, IaaS, and other ‘as-a-service’ deals. In Philadelphia, emerging partner talent Christopher Archer, who frequently advises on platform transformation and new technologies such as robotics, AI, and cloud services, and counsel Katherine O’Keefe are also key members of the group. Archer recently worked with Melby on a $1.5bn deal for a large wealth management company to implement a tech-driven approach to retirement plan management.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Key clients

  • Becton Dickinson
  • Cencora
  • Elevance Health
  • Embecta
  • Fortrea
  • Genpact
  • Morgan Stanley
  • Prudential
  • SEI
  • Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

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.

Barbara Murphy Melby

Leading partners

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

Vito Petretti

Next generation partners

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

Christopher Archer

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Katherine O’Keefe

Practice head

Barbara Melby; Doneld Shelkey; Mike Pierides

Other key lawyers

Marina Aronchik; Vito Petretti; Peter Watt-Morse; Christopher Archer; Katherine O'Keefe