Hogan Lovells US LLP‘s practice is well-equipped to handle the wide range of transactional matters from joint ventures to M&A transactions, with noteworthy capabilities within the space and satellite industry. Steven Kaufman and Alexis Sáinz co-lead the predominantly Washington DC-based team that office; Kaufman has a wealth of experience in strategic joint ventures and M&A transactions, while Sáinz is adept at handling complex agreements within the space sector, particularly between private space companies and government agencies. At the same office, Ari Fitzgerald’s workload includes advising prominent communications network operators, equipment manufacturers, industry trade associations and investors on communications and spectrum policy issues in particular. Michele Farquhar brings extensive FCC experience, offering advice on M&A, spectrum auctions and licensing matters. Mark Brennan has tech and telecoms expertise and is a key member of the firm’s AI working group. Both are also based in DC. Randy Segal is the team’s North Virginia-based co-head and has a specialism in the space and satellite sector, offering transactional and regulatory support to industry operators, investors and tech providers.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Accolades

Client satisfaction

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The Hogan Lovells practice distinguishes itself through its profound industry knowledge and a deep understanding of the legal landscape.'
  • 'Each attorney brings extensive hands-on experience, having navigated numerous complex transactions, deals, and contracts, which enables them to offer tailored recommendations and strategic advice to effectively solve, evolve, or complete any legal matter.’
  • ‘Randy Segal is among the top lawyers specializing in real-world space and satellite law. She is practical, pragmatic, objective, and consistently focused on achieving win-win outcomes.'

  • 'Steve Kaufman excels in drafting precise definitions for deals, contracts and memos. He remains objective and provides valuable insights that enhance the clarity and effectiveness of legal documents.'
  • 'Alexis Sáinz brings years of hands-on deal-making experience, combining extensive knowledge with a friendly and charismatic approach. He is dedicated to supporting both clients and transactions with expertise and enthusiasm.'
  • 'George John is a promising attorney who is bright, eager to help and an attentive listener. He possesses a broad range of expertise, including regulatory matters, and is capable of expanding his knowledge to meet diverse client needs.’

Key clients

  • SES S.A.
  • Columbia Capital
  • Newspace clients
  • Airbus
  • Xona Space Systems
  • Rivada Space Networks
  • T-Mobile US
  • Blue Origin
  • Gogo
  • United Launch Alliance

Work highlights

  • Representing SES SA in its acquisition of competitor Intelsat SA, combining two of the largest commercial operators of geostationary communications satellites in a transaction valued at $3.1bn.
  • Representing Columbia Capital and its portfolio companies in their terrestrial, infrastructure and satellite investments, network deployments, spectrum acquisitions and sales.
  • Providing satellite project and telecoms financing support, US government contracting regimes and advice on export control regulations, an array of launch “rideshare” agreements and commercial space contracts as well as launch, re-entry, radiofrequency, and other space license applications to innovative, entrepreneurial, new space and high-endurance uncrewed aerial vehicle companies.

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.

Steven Kaufman

Leading partners

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

Randy Segal

Next generation partners

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

Alexis Sáinz

Practice head

Steven Kaufman; Randy Segal; Alexis Sáinz

Other key lawyers

Ari Fitzgerald; Michele Farquhar; Mark Brennan; George John