Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP provides governance, transactional, strategic, and tax advice to a diverse range of clients on a wide variety of issues, with a focus on private foundations, endowment and investment matters, donor-advised funds, complex gifts, domestic and international grantmaking, as well as artist and collector foundations and art donations. The practice is led by David Shevlin, who divides his time between the New York and Los Angeles offices. Shevlin has extensive experience within charitable organizations in connection with social enterprise and program-related investments, and has been involved in assisting governing bodies on internal investigations. Kevin Roe, based in New York, is a name to note in relation to structural and operational issues, including domestic and international formation, governance, grantmaking and taxation. John Bennett, who supports endowed universities, hospitals, and cultural institutions with investment activities, as well as structural and operational matters from the New York office, was promoted to partner in January 2025.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'While many firms offer legal services to the nonprofit sector, Simpson Thacher is a true partner in philanthropy. They go beyond regulatory compliance, helping shape the future of giving through their strategic insights and hands-on support. Their proactive approach, responsiveness, and deep industry knowledge make them indispensable advisors for any high-impact nonprofit or foundation.'
- 'In working with Dave Shevlin and John Bennett, I have found them to be among the most knowledgeable, strategic, and trustworthy legal professionals in the nonprofit sector. Their deep understanding of donor-advised funds (DAFs), private foundations, and cross-border philanthropy is unparalleled, making them invaluable advisors to those navigating complex philanthropic structures.'
Key clients
- Cambridge University
- JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association
- New York University
- Princeton University
- Stanford University
- Yale University
Work highlights
- Advised a private individual in a transformational gift to the Albert Einstein School of Medicine, the largest made to any medical school in the country.
- Advised a private foundation in multiple seed-stage program-related investments in game developers seeking to develop STEM-focused video games that will be made available at no- or reduced-cost to libraries and underserved communities.
- Advised several investors in the launch of a newly formed multi-billion dollar real estate fund.
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 associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
David Shevlin
Other key lawyers
Kevin Roe; John Bennett; Jennifer Franklin