Morrison Foerster is a global leader in tech law, advising major tech and life sciences companies on complex, cross-border transactions. Specializing in AI, interactive media, semiconductors, and next-gen vehicles, its U.S.-based team collaborates with offices in Asia and Europe. Recently, the firm advised on Rivian’s joint venture with Volkswagen and SoftBank’s investment in autonomous driving. Practice-head and global powerhouse, Tessa Schwartz , is an IP and commercial agreements expert, who leads the AI rgoup and advises on complex M&A. William Schwartz has stellar expertise in transactions related to computers, communications equipment and wireless devices. Similarly, Aaron Rubin , chair of the Technology Transactions Group and co-chair of the Interactive + Digital Media Group, is a leading expert in structuring and negotiating high-stakes IP and technology transactions. Rubin advises top-tier clients across diverse sectors, including AI, software, SaaS, digital media, and healthcare, providing strategic guidance on licensing, development, collaboration, and procurement deals. Partner Justin Haan specializes in tech deals and cutting-edge technologies, including AI and autonomous systems. Matthew Karlyn, based in Boston, brings experience in healthcare, pharma, and tech-related IP and licensing transactions.
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team is extremely competent while remaining very pragmatic. They will understand your goals and ensure the strategy is modified as necessary to meet them. They have great associate strength allowing efficiency in billing. They treat you like you are their only client as they are incredibly responsive and remain very interested in the work. They are personable and communicate well - easing the path in very complicated matters. They also have a unique ability to tap in additional experts as necessary (sometimes on a moment's notice), whether it be other lawyers within the firm or external experts. This network has been incredibly valuable'.
Key clients
- Arm
- Ascendent Capital Partners
- ATN International
- Autodesk
- Base10 Partners
- BetterUp
- Book.io
- eBay
- Honeywell
- Infineon Technologies
Work highlights
Advised Rivian Automotive on the formation of an equally controlled and owned joint venture (JV) with Volkswagen Group to create next generation software defined vehicle (SDV) platforms to be used in both companies’ future electric vehicles.
Advised the board of directors and the Transaction Special Committee of Toshiba Corporation (TSE.F) regarding the $15.2 billion tender offer proposal by Japan Industrial Partners, Inc., to acquire all of Toshiba Corporation’s common shares.
Advised Ascendent Capital Partners (ACP), a private equity investment management firm focusing on Greater China investment, in connection with its $1.6 billion agreement to privatize Hollysys Automation Technologies Ltd., a Nasdaq-listed leading international automation control system solutions provider with primary operations in China.
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.
Tessa Schwartz
Practice head
Tessa Schwartz
Other key lawyers
William Schwartz; Justin Haan; Matthew Karlyn