Kirkland & Ellis LLP > Houston, United States > Firm Profile

Kirkland & Ellis LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings

Antitrust > Civil litigation/class actions: defense Tier 1

With a notable and strong track record with contentious merger clearances, both domestic and international, the antitrust and competition team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP regularly represents leading healthcare, pharma, and life sciences sector clients on the full range of contentious antitrust matters, including reverse payment cases, IP-related antitrust litigation, and monopolization claims. Recent work highlights for the team include securing a complete defense verdict for Gilead Sciences in a class action involving claims of reverse payments. Key names in the team’s Chicago office include James Mutchnik and Daniel Laytin; Mutchnik focuses on cartel-related litigation, including price-fixing and monopolization claims, while Laytin has long-standing expertise advising on the full spectrum of contentious antitrust issues. Also in Chicago is Christa Cottrell, who handles large class actions in the pharma and healthcare space. Olivia Adendorff splits her time between Dallas and Washington DC and is another name to note for class actions, while Devora Allon handles pay-for-delay cases from New York.

Dispute resolution > Corporate investigations and white-collar criminal defense

Kirkland & Ellis LLP continues to be a go-to firm for the full spectrum of white-collar matters, including corruption, bribery, accounting fraud, and environmental crimes. Mark Filip and Asheesh Goel practice in both the Chicago and Washington DC offices. Goel specializes in securities enforcement, while Filip has an excellent track record representing large multinational companies facing investigations by the DOJ and SEC, among other regulatory authorities. Other prominent members of the team include Kim Nemirow from Chicago as well as Reginald Brown and Brigham Cannon who are based in Washington DC. Nemirow has nearly two decades of experience navigating internal investigation across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, technology, and private equity. Brown regularly assists clients with congressional inquiries, international investigations, and crisis management, while Cannon has in-depth experience with a range of white-collar cases, including allegations of mail fraud, FCPA violations, and money laundering.

Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP's litigation practice group comes highly recommended as ‘very experienced in all areas of commercial litigation’, drawing on the team’s deep bench of ‘top drawer legal talent’ to handle complex cases spanning the entire breadth of industry sectors and substantive areas, including Congressional inquiries, securities litigation, class action claims, government investigations and white-collar crime. Leading practitioner Mark Filip splits his time between Washington DC and Chicago and is a go-to name for government enforcement defense and internal investigations. Pre-eminent trial lawyer Jim Hurst is well-regarded for his advice in aspects of complex commercial litigation, having recently spearheaded the firm’s successful defence of Abbott Laboratories in multi-district litigation arising out of a recall of infant formula. Diana Watral represents high-end clients in a broad range of disputes, including contract, False Claims Act, trade secret, antitrust, patent, sports, and product liability cases. New York’s Sandra Goldstein is an important port of call for securities litigation, fraud class actions and business-critical commercial disputes. All lawyers named are based in Chicago unless otherwise specified.

Dispute resolution > M&A litigation: defense Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP in New York has ‘a pre-eminent M&A defense litigation practice and has done a great job recruiting young talent from Delaware‘. Advising on deal structures and strategies at the pre-litigation stage to achieving successful outcomes at trial, the firm has extensive experience handling cases arising from mergers and acquisitions, shareholder activism issues, proxy contests, tender offers, leveraged buyouts, and special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) transactions. The firm is known for its presence in the private equity market, but it also advises many financial sponsors and corporates in key industries such as pharmaceuticals on transaction-related cases. Standout partners Sandra Goldstein, Matthew Solum (who is known for ‘great presence, outstanding judgment and comprehensive knowledge‘) and Yosef Riemer are highly regarded; ‘their breadth of experience gives them exceptional judgment‘. Up-and-coming partners Stefan Atkinson and, in Washington DC, Joshua Rabinovitz also have outstanding reputations in deal-related litigation. Atkinson helped secure a trial victory in Delaware for private equity house Antin Infrastructure Partners in a matter concerning the purchase of middle-market Florida telecom company OpticalTel.

Dispute resolution > Securities litigation: defense Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is known for its ‘tough and aggressive’ approach to litigation, and clients note the firm’s ‘deep subject matter expertise’. The firm is particularly active for clients in the private equity and alternative asset management sector, but its work also reflects companies from a broad range of industries, including retail, aviation and aeronautics, pharmaceuticals, energy, hospitality, and technology. Sandra Goldstein in New York and Mark Filip in Chicago are standout partners. Goldstein acted for 3G in class and derivative actions concerning Kraft Heinz and its $15.4bn writedown of assets, as well the disclosure of an SEC investigation. The main hub of the practice is in New York, where up-and-coming partner Stefan Atkinson, who has played key role in the firm’s work on SPAC-related cases, and Matthew Solum stand out. Atkinson led the defense of a class action against Instructure. Joshua Rabinovitz and James Gillespie are the principal practitioners in Washington DC.

Energy > Energy litigation: oil and gas Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s energy litigation team of experienced lawyers based in Texas and Washington DC assists major oil and gas operators, energy corporations and renewable energy companies in energy-related litigation before US state and federal courts, appeals courts and international tribunals. The team is also particularly active in administrative and regulatory proceedings before the European Union and other international governing bodies. From the Houston office, Anna Rotman regularly appears before state courts, federal courts and arbitrations throughout the US in restructuring-related disputes, and has recently conducted complex high-stakes plaintiffs litigation alongside Jeremy Fielding from the Dallas office. Other notable names include Washington DC’s Daniel Donovan and Ragan Naresh, who routinely handle large class actions in the oil and gas sector.

Energy > Energy transactions: electric power Tier 1

Delivering both traditional and energy transition asset advice alongside cutting-edge technological and innovative expertise, Kirkland & Ellis LLP continues to handle blockbuster multi-billion dollar asset and company acquisitions and disposals, often working for some of the market’s most formidable financial sponsors and pension funds. The team has responded to motivations from both domestic and European investors taking interest in tax credit instructions through the hire of Sam Kamyans from Allen & Overy LLP in June 2023, with his expertise combining with fellow tax specialist Michael Masri to service the firm’s ever-expanding stream of solar, wind and battery storage deals. The Houston-based Andrew Calder heads the team and is often active on the firm’s most substantial mandates, including Global Infrastructure Partners’ recent acquisition by BlackRock. Kevin Crews operates out of Dallas and is noted for his far-reaching practice that has seen him advise on wind and solar, forestry, and RNG projects, while Cyril Jones has been predominantly engaged with private equity acquisitions and joint venture deals, acting from the firm’s Houston office. Out of New York, Kristin Mendoza is a key contact to the practice’s clean energy and sustainable infrastructure platforms such as CleanCapital and Arclight Capital Partners, often working alongside Houston’s Ahmed Sidik who is equally well versed across M&A, divestitures, private equity and project development investments. Also advising from the firm’s Houston office, Rhett Van Syoc is one of the main ports of call for Blackstone and its portfolio companies for buyouts, investments and disposals.

Energy > Energy transactions: oil and gas Tier 1

Featuring a team of ‘consistent high performers’ who possess ‘incredible breadth’ across the oil and gas space, Kirkland & Ellis LLP continues to be a chief point of contact for both longstanding investors and new market entrants seeking counsel for big-ticket work. Bringing together sophisticated experience in M&A, private equity, joint ventures, and complex financing structures, the group has seen an influx of multi-billion-dollar transactions as major players seek to consolidate inventory, working with the likes of EQT, Ovintiv, ONEOK and Diamondback Energy, whilst also boasting an impressive array of mandates in the midstream space that involve energy-focused private equity entities such as I Squared Capital and Blackstone Energy Partners. Team head and founding partner of the firm’s Houston office Anthony Speier has deep-rooted connections to the local market and is equally well-equipped to advise across M&A, commercial, development, regulatory and financing matters. David Castro and Christopher Heasley are widely praised by clients for their ‘exceptional work ethic, problem solving, and industry knowledge’, with both practitioners holding M&A and private equity as the flagship components of their work, while Dallas’ Will Eiland is similarly praised by clients for his creative and constructive approach towards transactions. Andrew Calder handles acquisitions, disposals, investments and joint venture deals with a firm focus on LNG and natural gas-fired generation facilities, a practice akin to Sean Wheeler and William Benitez, who have engaged with blockbuster buyouts and mergers in the upstream space. Chad Smith showcases in-depth knowledge of both upstream and midstream oil and gas assets and is active on acquisitions of operating and non-operating interests in a multitude of basins and subbasins. Beyond her work as a strategic and commercial advisor to complex energy projects, Lindsey Jaquillard is also well-reputed for her M&A proficiency. Associate Isaac Bate has been a growing presence on the firm’s key mandates. Other than Eiland, the team is based in Houston.  

Environment > Environment: transactional Tier 1

With offices across the US, including Houston, New York and Washington DC, Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s environmental practice is well-equipped to advise a wide range of clients, particularly leading private equity firms and major players in the energy and infrastructure sectors, on the full range of high-value environmental transactions. In tandem with their regular advisory role in environmental due diligence matters, the team exhibits considerable strength in the transactional space, where it managed complex M&As, multinational acquisitions and divestitures, and various project financing matters. From the San Francisco office, Paul Tanaka leads the practice, routinely assisting energy and infrastructure clients with environmental due diligence assessments, liability and risk allocation issues, and transactions in the power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors. Dallas-based Jonathan Kidwell leads the firm’s global environmental practice on energy and infrastructure matters, advising on environmental compliance and liability issues related to corporate M&A and divestitures, an area in which Washington DC-based Carleigh Trappe Rodriguez is also well versed. Michael Saretsky splits his time between New York and Bay Area and is an expert in environmental-related business transactions, while environmental due diligence specialist Stefanie Gitler, based between Washington DC and Houston, and Houston’s James Dolphin are also recommended.

Environment > Environment: litigation

With offices across the Bay Area, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, New York, Salt Lake City and Washington DC, Kirkland & Ellis LLP offers environmental expertise to clients located throughout the US, assisting with a spread of enforcement defense and regulatory compliance work, though clients praise it for being the ‘best of the best for mass tort litigation.’ Andrew Running is experienced with hazardous waste issues, product liability and environmental contamination, while Nader Boulos is a key contact for clients within the energy, aerospace, telecoms and pharma spaces seeking assistance with issues relating to toxic tort. Bradley Weidenhammer, who handles environmental and commercial disputes, represents clients in federal and state trial and appellate courts across the US. All recommended lawyers are based in Chicago.

Finance > Capital markets: high-yield debt offerings Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP has a prolific record in high-yield debt offerings stems from its extensive private equity client base, enabling it to advise a raft of sponsor-backed companies in connection with issuances linked to leveraged financings. The firm also has a wider range of larger corporate clients that it advises on high-yield transactions; it recently advised Charter Communications on a series of bulge-bracket high-yield offerings. The firm also has standout capabilities in liability management transactions, and refinancings and restructurings that involve debt offerings. Joshua Korff, Sophia Hudson and Christian Nagler are experienced capital markets specialists with extensive records in the high-yield field. Houston’s Matthew Pacey is another key partner. All named individuals are based in New York unless stated otherwise.

Finance > Commercial lending Tier 1

With a strong footing in the borrower side, the practice at Kirkland & Ellis LLP has significant experience handling leveraged buyouts, restructurings and stand-alone financings. The group is also equipped to handle debtor-in-possession financings, exit financings and debt restructurings, as well as infrastructure, energy and project finance transactions. The practice is a popular choice among private equity funds and their portfolio companies in syndicated finance transactions. The team’s wide bench of key figures includes New York-based Melissa Hutson whose practice focuses on syndicated debt facilities and debt commitments and highly regarded Jay Ptashek. Forming part of the Chicago offering, Michelle Kilkenney represents private equity groups and commercial lending institutions in a range of debt financing transactions and Maureen Dixon whose expertise lies in leveraged buyouts, take-private transactions and asset-based financings.

Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s restructuring group provides a wide range of business advisory and crisis management services to navigate clients through restructurings and insolvency matters. The team consists of over two hundred restructuring attorneys across the firm’s global team, including the London, Munich and Hong Kong offices, which frequently collaborate with the US team to handle cross-border restructuring projects. The New York-based Josh Sussberg and Nicole Greenblatt have experience in all variations of financial and operational restructurings and insolvency proceedings, with the firm acting on behalf of domestic and multinational corporations. New York lawyer Edward Sassower co-heads the practice with Sussberg and focuses on representing debtors, creditors and distressed investors in bankruptcy cases alongside out-of-court restructurings and acquisitions. Anup Sathy is based in Chicago and represents a range of parties in all aspects of distressed and insolvency situations, while New York lawyers Emily Geier and Christine Okike are skilled in a wide array of restructuring and bankruptcy proceedings, with Okike representing a range of clients across numerous industries including automotive, sports and cryptocurrency. Ross Kwasteniet is based in Chicago and is noted for his experience in representing both buyers and sellers of distressed assets, and Ciara Foster, in New York, is a name to watch due to her involvement in a number of high profile Chapter 11 cases.

Government > Government relations Tier 1

Intellectual property > Copyright Tier 1

The team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP remains a market leader, advising multinational corporates across such tech, video games, aerospace, publishing and media sectors, including Epic Games, IBM, and Take-Two Interactive. Intellectual property authority Dale Cendali, who represented Oracle in the Supreme Court and throughout the long-running Google v Oracle case, heads the practice, bringing extensive experience to high-stakes infringement matters on behalf of celebrities, major motion picture studios and corporates in tech. Seasoned litigator Claudia Ray handles complex combined copyright and competition law matters in New York. Joshua Simmons supports Cendali in acting for clients across the tech and medical devices spaces. All lawyers mentioned work in the New York office. Miranda Means, who works at the firm’s Boston location, was promoted to partner in October 2023.

Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (full coverage) Tier 1

Praised by clients for fielding a team of ‘exceptionally talented and experienced‘ trial lawyers, Kirkland & Ellis LLP has extensive experience handling patent infringement matters in the full range of litigation forums, with particular expertise in competitor disputes. Intellectual property litigator Gregory Arovas in New York is a ‘top notch lead counsel‘ in patent disputes, trial lawyer Gregg LoCascio in Washington DC handles a varied caseload of IP and commercial litigation matters, and San Francisco-based lawyer Adam Alper specializes in patent and trade secret litigation. Also in New York, Robert Appleby focuses on intellectual property litigation and Todd Friedman handles disputes in the tech and medical devices sectors. The group also includes experienced trial lawyer James Hurst in Chicago, Austin-based Jeannie Heffernan, and Edward Donovan in Washington DC, who specializes in tech-related IP litigation. The Los Angeles team includes IP trial lawyer Michael De Vries and the ‘impressive’ Sharre Lotfollahi, who focuses on tech licensing disputes. Trial lawyer Brandon Brown in San Francisco, who specializes in high-tech patent disputes, is another name to note.

Intellectual property > Trade secrets (litigation and non-contentious matters) Tier 1

The ‘very impressive’ trade secret group at Kirkland & Ellis LLP is well-equipped to advise its portfolio of renowned clients on the range of non-contentious and litigious matters. There are no formal practice heads but the group is well-regarded for its ‘very deep bench’ of specialist attorneys. Key practitioners on the West Coast include San Francisco-based IP litigation expert Adam Alper, who is renowned for his abilities representing clients namely in the semiconductor, telecoms, computer hardware and pharma industries in particular, in complex disputes; in LA, Michael De Vries has noteworthy expertise handling high-stakes IP disputes – the pair are noted for their ‘great technical backgrounds’. Also on the West Coast, Akshay Deoras in San Francisco and Los Angeles-based Sharre Lotfollahi are names to note. Dale Cendali has notable experience representing clients in high-profile IP matters, Joshua Simmons is focused on media and tech-related IP disputes, while Leslie Schmidt also has significant trial experience; the three are based in New York. An example of the group’s high-stakes workload is its representation of Cognizant TriZetto Software Group, Inc. in a multifaceted matter of alleged misappropriation, unfair competition and breach of contract against Syntel in a healthcare tech context wherein hundreds of millions of dollars were at stake – Alper, De Vries and Simmons successfully co-headed the matter.

Intellectual property > Trademarks: litigation Tier 1

Widely regarded as a force in the trademark litigation sphere, Kirkland & Ellis LLP is regularly engaged by notable global companies to advise on market-leading issues across electronic games, software, tech, and consumer products sectors. New York’s Dale Cendali steers the practice with her impressive experience before the US Supreme Court and involvement in a number of high-profile litigations. Also in New York is Claudia Ray, who is particularly active in the entertainment and media, financial services, tech, and consumer products sectors. In Los Angeles, Diana Torres operates for a consortium of clients that includes software developers, consumer product manufacturers, and entertainment and media companies, while Allison Buchner is routinely entrusted by consumers, competitors, and federal regulators, including the Federal Trade Commission. In New York, Joshua Simmons demonstrates excellence in the spheres of media and tech, Shanti Sadtler Conway’s wide-ranging expertise reaches right of publicity, social media and licensing issues, and Mary Mazzello contributes her capabilities across sports, health, financial services, and consulting industries.

International trade > CFIUS Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s dominant offerings in private equity and large-scale M&A positions it as a first port of call for many corporate clients seeking cross-border investment clearance. With a ‘unique ability to communicate effectively with financial professionals’, the team’s experience spans the full scope of issues before the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS)—from regulatory counselling and the preparation of filings, through to the negotiation of mitigation agreements. Department co-head Ivan Schlager is widely recognized as a foremost authority on CFIUS matters and his broad industry expertise encompasses the defense, TMT, energy, and private equity spheres. Schlager recently advised Blackstone Infrastructure Partners (BIP) on CFIUS matters connected to the acquisition by IRG Acquisition Holdings (a joint venture between Invenergy Renewables, Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, and funds managed by BIP) of a renewables portfolio from American Electric Power. Fellow group co-head Mario Mancuso is also highly regarded for his comprehensive national security practice, which takes in CFIUS, economic sanctions, export controls, and other international risk issues. Mancuso recently teamed up with Lucille Hague, ‘a technical expert on the CFIUS rules’, to lead the CFIUS process for Brookfield Infrastructure’s 49% investment in expanding Intel’s semiconductor operations in Arizona. The Washington DC-based group also draws on government, regulatory and internal investigations partners Daniel Gerkin and Michelle Weinbaum.

Investment fund formation and management > Private equity funds (including venture capital) Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP maintains a strong position in the private equity space, serving a broad client roster that spans across middle-market and smaller managers to preeminent private equity firms and global investors. The team covers private fund formation and maintenance across every asset class, appearing on behalf of both the sponsor and investor on complex fund formations, restructurings, transactions and related regulatory matters. Practice head John O’Neil is a preeminent name in this space and services funds of all kinds from the Chicago office. Erica Berthou and Andrew Wright bolster the firm’s New York office, with the former having experience in fund formation in emerging markets, next to advising on strategic private investments, while the latter has extensive experience with funds focused on industry sectors. Further key names in New York are Katrina Rowe, whose broad advisory offering encompasses buyout, credit and distressed debt funds, co-investment arrangements as well as compliance and regulatory matters and Daniel Lavon-Krein who is co-head of the firm’s strategic GP Advisory practice. In Chicago, Kelly Ryan and Katie St. Peters are names of note, while Nicole Washington is a key contact in Washington DC. In January 2023 John Senior joined the New York office from Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, and is part of the liquidity solutions team, while in November of the same year, David Sherman rejoined the practice from Latham & Watkins LLP. In April 2024, James Donohue joined from Goodwin in Boston, while Martin Strauch joined the DC office from Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP

Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: transactional Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is renowned for its strength in private equity and offers comprehensive advice on employee benefits issues such as ESOPs, retirement plans, and welfare benefit programs. The firm is celebrated for its ‘exceptional’ service quality and is adept at structuring compensation agreements for investors, CEOs, and boards of directors. Scott Price, based in New York, is reputed for his expertise in executive compensation during mergers and leveraged buyouts. In Chicago, the team includes Matthew Antinossi, who has a focus on ERISA-related areas; Alexandra Mihalas, who deals with transactional ERISA matters in acquisitions and sales by venture capital funds; and Michael Falk, who advises on qualified and non-qualified retirement plans and equity compensation. Houston’s Stephanie Jeane is sought after for advice on spin-offs, divestitures, and IPOs, complementing Stephen Jacobson’s counsel to both public and private entities, as well as private equity firms and their portfolio companies.

M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: large deals ($1bn+) Tier 1

Representing multinational corporations, financial sponsors, and boards of directors, the Kirkland & Ellis LLP team has vast experience handling cross-border M&A, including complex mergers of equals and hostile takeovers. The firm’s corporate offering is extensive and also encompasses cross-border leveraged buyouts, carve-out transactions, and joint ventures, with Daniel Wolf acting as a key contact for activism defense and general corporate matters. Sarkis Jebejian is experienced with corporate governance and shareholder activism matters, whilst Eric Schiele frequently advises public company boards and special committees on general transactional and hostile takeover matters. David Feirstein is especially knowledgeable on corporate and securities law issues, Jonathan Davis focuses on public and private M&A, and Edward Lee is an expert in assisting with IPOs and spin-offs. All the department’s lawyers are based in New York, including David Klein, who routinely counsels private equity firms and other investors on a wide array of transactional matters.

M&A/corporate and commercial > Private equity buyouts: large deals ($500m+) Tier 1

In addition to its diverse caseload and close relationships with leading private equity clients such as Bain Capital, Blackstone, and KKR, the team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP also cements its market-leading reputation with its ability to advise funds and portfolio companies on complex and market-defining deals. The team serves as a key player for high-value sponsor consolidations, impactful cross-border carve-outs and joint venture formations, and continuation fund transactions, among others. Jon Ballis boasts a longstanding record in the transactional private equity space and practices from the Chicago office together with growth investment expert Douglas Gessner. Key names in the New York office include leveraged buyout expert Jennifer Perkins, who works closely with KKR on a variety of investment transactions and portfolio deals, Peter Martelli, who is noted for his ability to guide clients through minority investments and joint ventures, and cross-border transactions specialist Srinivas Kaushik. Armand Della Monica is based in Boston and handles PE transactions in a variety of industry sectors, including logistics and life sciences, while the Los Angeles-based Jonathan Benloulou notably advises on asset manager M&A.

M&A/corporate and commercial > Shareholder activism Tier 1

The New York office of Kirkland & Ellis LLP houses a shareholder activism and hostile takeover defense team that is well regarded for handling some of the most complex and high-profile matters in the US market. The firm draws on its wider strength across related departments in M&A, capital markets, ESG, litigation and restructuring to provide strategic advice to prevent costly proxy fights. However, the team is experienced when those contests do arise and has been one of the firms at the forefront of contests under the SEC’s new universal proxy rules. Shaun Mathew is ‘efficient, thoughtful, creative and aggressive‘ in his counsel to a range of well-known companies and board members, with Sarkis Jebejian being another key figure to note. Eric Schiele and Daniel Wolf are particularly strong in matters arising from M&A.

Media, technology and telecoms > Advertising and marketing: litigation Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP offers a robust advertising and marketing litigation offering, covering investigation defense, representation in false and misleading advertising claims, and defending competitive advertising matters. The practice is particularly adept at handling IP disputes and its expertise makes it a go-to firm for high-profile clients across sectors. Chicago-based Ross Weisman has expertise in all aspects of advertising and promotion law but is particularly regarded for his vast experience defending and challenging Lanham Act cases in federal court, as well as representing clients before the NAD and NARB. Also based in Chicago is Robin McCue who focuses on IP litigation, and more specifically, trademark and false advertising litigation. She has substantial courtroom experience bringing and defending matters before the NAD. Other key members of the team include Gregg LoCascio and Richard Cunningham, both of whom are based in Washington DC – LoCascio is recognized for his IP work, in which he is regularly involved in trial cases and preliminary injunctions, while Cunningham concentrates on antitrust and consumer protection law, often securing clearance for deals from the FTC and DOJ. Robyn Bladow, based in Los Angeles, is noted for defending class actions and false advertising claims. In between Dallas and Washington DC, Olivia Adendorff is an active member of the group and has amassed experience in FTC investigations, private antitrust litigation, and class actions. Allison Buchner, based in Los Angeles, brings to the team trademark and copyright expertise, and has represented clients before federal and state courts nationwide. She is noted for aiding clients ‘through complex issues with professionalism and care.’

Media, technology and telecoms > Technology transactions Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s technology and IP transactions practice leverages the firm’s international presence to undertake an impressive variety of cross-border work, particularly in the biotech, AI, and manufacturing spaces. The group concentrates on business transactions relating to tech assets and IP rights and frequently adopts a multidisciplinary approach in transactions by liaising with its tax and corporate disciplines. Seth Traxler is recognized for his strengths in carve-out transactions and strategic alliances between tech companies and e-commerce marketplace platforms, while Matthew Lovell guides clients through telecoms projects and IP licensing matters. Neil Hirshman handles domestic and foreign transactions involving software, trademarks, and data. San Francisco-based John Lynn is noted for his skill in the acquisition and financing of tech-focused businesses, in addition to fielding significant know-how in data protection concerns. Unless otherwise mentioned, all individuals are stationed in the firm’s Chicago office.

Real estate Tier 1

‘Unmatched in terms of knowledge, advice and negotiations’, the multidisciplinary team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP is noted for its experience advising major private equity sponsors and REITs on joint ventures, acquisitions and disposals, as well as for its expertise in funds, both in terms of formation and deployment, and securities. The firm has strong expertise across a plethora of asset classes spanning logistics, multifamily and student housing through to life sciences, data centers, and hospitality, among many others. New York based co-head Jonathan Schechter regularly represents domestic and international clients, notably top private equity firms, on transactions and joint venture matters, as does Christopher Hartmann from the same office. In Los Angeles, co-head Kevin Ehrhart focuses on capital investment, financings, and operating company acquisitions, among other areas. He is joined by Robert Keane, Jr who is often approached by pension funds, private equity groups, and commercial and investment banks for his equity investment, reorganization, workout and restructuring experience. In Chicago, co-lead Rachel Brown is another key contact, especially on structured and mezzanine financing and development matters, as is Andrew Small on private capital raising, finance, and investment mandates.

Tax > International tax Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP advises on tax planning in connection with domestic and foreign M&A, buyouts, fund formations, restructurings, bankruptcy reorganizations, financings, and executive compensation arrangements. Practice head Dean Shulman, who is based in New York, has significant experience advising on and structuring transactions, including partnership workouts and restructurings, like-kind exchanges, and transactions involving the formation and operation of partnerships. In Chicago, Rachel Cantor‘s practice is focused on the tax aspects of complex business transactions, with particular experience handling private equity, LBO, and merger and acquisition transactions. New York-based Sara Zablotney advises on the full spectrum of transactions, including M&A, divestitures, joint ventures, and spin-offs. In Chicago, Mike Carew has expertise in the tax aspects of M&A, buyouts, and private equity investing and Lee Morlock advises Fortune 500 and Global 500 companies on the structuring of cross-border operations. In New York, Mark Schwed supports public companies and private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies on their domestic and international acquisitions, investments, divestitures, joint ventures, financings, and restructurings. Restructuring transaction specialist Anthony Sexton and Polina Liberman are both based in Chicago, and Adam Kool, who handle the full breadth of business transactions, practices from New York. In 2023, the team welcomed the expertise of David Foster from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Sam Kamyans from Allen & Overy LLP, both based in Washington DC.

Tax > US taxes: non-contentious Tier 1

Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s non-contentious tax group advises on a broad range of high-value matters, including domestic and international M&A, buyouts, real estate investments, fund formations, restructurings, and bankruptcy reorganizations. Dean Shulman in New York, with considerable experience handling tax-free spin-offs, leveraged buyouts, IPOs, and fund formations, leads the team alongside Chicago’s Todd Maynes, who focuses on tax issues in debt restructurings as well as bankruptcy and insolvency proceedings. Chicago-based Rachel Cantor has a strong track record handling acquisitions, leveraged buyouts, joint ventures, recapitalizations, and debt and equity restructurings. David Wheat, operating from Dallas and Houston, offers expertise in M&A transactions and divestitures involving large public and private corporations and partnerships, while Vin Thorn in Boston is well known for advising on the tax aspects of private equity transactions. Los Angeles-based Anne Kim counts private equity funds, public and private companies, and publicly traded partnerships among her client roster. Mike Carew in Chicago is also a key contact, advising on the tax aspects of securities issuances, recapitalizations, joint ventures, and debt and equity restructurings, among other issues. New York’s Sara Zablotney focuses on the tax aspects of M&A, spin-offs, divestitures, and joint ventures. Chicago-based Gregory Gallagher‘s domestic practice covers M&A, spin-offs, IPOs, and debt restructuring, while Mark Schwed in New York is noted for his experience advising on SPAC IPOs, financings, and business combinations. New York-based Joseph Tootle advises on the tax aspects of REITs and real estate transactions, among others. In 2023, David Foster and Sam Kamyans joined the firm’s Washington DC office from Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Allen & Overy LLP, respectively.

Antitrust > Cartel Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s client base comprises domestic and multinational companies as well as individuals, all benefitting from the team’s vast experience with both civil and criminal antitrust matters against the US government, other nations, and international bodies such as the EU Commission.  The team is led by three lawyers: Daniel Laytin's multifaceted caseload includes the entire scope of antitrust work, with recent matters stemming from industries such as material sciences, pharmaceuticals, energy and foods. Covering the intersection of antitrust topics and white-collar crime, James Mutchnik is particularly recommended for defending clients against allegations of price fixing and price discrimination, while Christa Cottrell is an experienced litigator and trial lawyer. All mentioned lawyers are based in Chicago.

Antitrust > Merger control Tier 2

The ‘excellent’ team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP is renowned for its ability in handling high-stakes, multi-jurisdictional mergers, with its strengths on full display in the recent trial win over the DOJ in UnitedHealth’s $13.8bn acquisition of Change Healthcare. The team handles an ample influx of HSR filings and possesses standout capabilities in acting for clients before the DOJ and FTC, hailing from the worlds of aerospace, energy, pharma and retail. Matthew Reilly is a key figure in the team, noted for his focus on antitrust litigation, complex transactions and government investigations where major clients depend on him to navigate the approval process for high-profile transactions. Marin Boney  frequently represents clients before the FTC and DOJ in merger reviews and government investigations, while Richard Cunningham is noted for his litigation capabilities. The team has been strengthened by the arrival of Christopher Leach who joins from Mayer Brown and Rebekah Tobison Scherr who joins from Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, and New York's Daniel Zach, who arrived from Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP in January 2024. All practitioners mentioned are based in Washington DC unless otherwise stated.

Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: automotive/transport Tier 2

With a ‘deep bench of tenacious litigators’ at its disposal, many of which display an ‘exceptional breadth of expertise’, Kirkland & Ellis LLP is well-equipped to handle a wide range of product liability matters in state and federal litigation throughout the country. While being adept at handling all stages of the litigation process, the firm is particularly praised for its trial readiness, ensuring that clients receive a robust defense in the event of a trial but also favorable settlements. Chicago-based Mike Brock and Renee Smith are both ‘impressive trial lawyers’, whose subject matter versatility includes handling high-stakes auto-related product liability matters. Notably, Smith regularly represents GM in class actions and MDLs alleging damage caused by a range of product defects, including recently securing summary judgment putting an end to a class action and thousands of individual cases asserting that the auto manufacturer had conspired to install Volkswagen-type ‘defeat device’ software in hundreds of thousands of trucks.

Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: consumer products (including tobacco) Tier 2

Recognized as being the ‘epitome of creative lawyering’, Kirkland & Ellis LLP's practice is centered around its Chicago and Washington DC offices, and is particularly noted for its trial skills, regularly acting in bellwether trials and dispositive motions. Renee Smith is ‘superb at trying cases across a range of products’, regularly prevailing in jury trials and multiple federal MDLs. Robert Ellis is a ‘top-notch litigator’ who regularly defends high-profile companies in complex consumer fraud and product liability class actions. Washington DC-based Mike Brock has vast experience in product liability cases and is a key member of the team, which also includes Mark Filip, who splits his time between Chicago and Washington DC and excels in handling matters involving governmental investigations or enforcement issues.

Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: pharmaceuticals and medical devices Tier 2

Combining first-chair trial skills, alongside deep subject knowledge and procedural expertise, Kirkland & Ellis LLP is a popular choice among many leading life sciences companies to defend them against high-stakes product liability disputes throughout the country. Many of these take the form of MDLs/class actions, with the firm excelling in taking on leadership roles as national co-ordinating counsel, as well as handling key hearings – where it shines at explaining complex scientific issues to juries. The firm’s longstanding relationship with Abbott Laboratories recently saw it representing the Chicago-based medical device company in an MDL stemming from allegations regarding its recalled baby formula sickened infants. The firm has also had a key role in the sprawling opiate litigation on behalf of Allergan and continues to defend it against ongoing claims by hundreds of private and public entities that opted out of the recent global settlement. Washington DC-based Mike Brock is ‘a superb trial lawyer across product lines’ and remains particularly active in the life sciences space. Brock is a key member of the team along with Washington DC-based Jennifer Levy  and Donna Welch in Chicago, with all three having a key role in the aforementioned Allergan matter.

Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: toxic tort Tier 2

‘The best of the best for mass tort litigation’, Kirkland & Ellis LLP regularly has a fulcrum role in class actions and MDLs in major environmental and toxic tort disputes throughout the country. Recognized as the ‘epitome of creative lawyering’, the team, which is more generalist than many in the ranking, has an excellent perspective throughout the litigation continuum, using its feared trial lawyers as effective leveraging tools to achieve beneficial settlements for clients, as well as being dogged and effective advocates in federal and state courts throughout the country. Washington DC-based litigator Mike Brock is a distinguished advocate whose versatile practice has included some high-profile environmental and toxic tort mandates; he continues to act as lead trial lawyer for BP in ongoing cases emanating from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Other recommended lawyers include Chicago-based litigators Renee Smith, Leslie Smith, and Donna Welch, all of whom have experience advising manufacturers and life sciences clients in toxic tort matters.

Energy > Energy regulation: electric power Tier 2

Routinely handling a wide range of regulatory matters for the electric power market, Kirkland & Ellis LLP's advisory portfolio includes representing clients before authorities such as FERC, DOE, NRC, as well as CFTC. Power purchase agreements, M&A deals, and project development are among the key areas of activity for the firm alongside enforcement investigations and litigation. Brooksany Barrowes' experience covers ISO and RTO tariff proceedings as well as corporate compliance proceedings, among others, while Robert Fleishman fields in-depth expertise regarding the regulatory aspects of transactions within the energy market and routinely defends clients in enforcement actions. Andrew Stuyvenberg is another key practitioner in the team and offers experience acting on matters including FERC approvals for M&A deals, electric rate proceedings under the FPA, and nuclear regulatory issues. Marcia Hook left the firm in February 2024. All mentioned lawyers are based in Washington DC.

Energy > Renewable/alternative power Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP's significant M&A and private equity finance strengths are leveraged in a renewable energy group whose scope continues to broaden and acts on transactions, financing and development of a plethora of projects. Blackstone is one of a host of major PE firms that look to the Kirkland team for advice on project acquisition finance, while the team has also acted for project owners in joint ventures and tax equity financing. Coordinated by energy and infrastructure head Andrew Calder at the Houston office, the team is represented across a number of locations. In New York, Kristin Mendoza stands out for her renewables-focused PE practice, and Robert Eberhardt has significant experience in a wide range of transactions involving onshore and offshore wind, solar, storage, hydrogen and other assets. In Houston, John Pitts and Cyril Jones are among the key senior contacts, and Ahmed Sidik is a younger partner to note. Kevin Crews in Dallas frequently advises clients on energy transition matters, and Roald Nashi at the Washington DC office is accomplished across the range of financing matters in the energy space. A further addition in Washington DC saw Sam Kamyans bolster the firm’s tax offering after joining from Allen & Overy LLP in June 2023.

Finance > Capital markets: debt offerings Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is best known for representing sponsor-backed companies in high-yield debt offerings, though it has a much broader practice for public companies and underwriters. The capital markets team is also noted for liability management and restructuring exercises, including Chapter 11 processes; this was an active area of practice for the team in 2023. New York partners Joshua Korff, Sophia Hudson and Christian Nagler are prominent names in debt offerings, along with Chicago partner Robert Hayward. Rachel Sheridan has joined the Washington DC office from Latham & Watkins LLP.

Finance > Capital markets: equity offerings

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is at the forefront of US IPOs for issuers. Its deal pipeline is fuelled by its client base of private equity houses and their portfolio companies, along with a multitude of other major corporates. Chicago partner Robert Hayward is a leader in equity offerings, particularly those involving issuers based in the Midwest. Christian Nagler is at the forefront of SPAC-related offerings, notably advising Ares Acquisition Corp II on its $500m upsized IPO in 2023. Joshua Korff and Sophia Hudson are also highly-rated partners that cover both debt and equity offerings. Named individuals are based in New York unless stated otherwise.

Finance > Project finance

Advising some of the market’s largest asset managers, financial sponsors and pension funds, Kirkland & Ellis LLP covers a variety of transaction types and assets. Infrastructure engagement focuses heavily on the digital space, with the team advising on the debt and equity financings for data center and fiber ventures, whereas on the energy front the firm has a broader ambit that includes, but is not limited to, wind, solar, hydropower, gas, hydrogen and battery storage. Rohit Chaudhry leads both sides of the firm’s project finance offering and has a proven track record on solar, LNG and fiber mandates, whereas Roald Nashi, who is also equally competent across both sector strands, has predominantly focused on energy transition work such as renewables, anaerobic digestion plants and carbon capture facilities, as well as data centers. Another key individual who has a practice concentrated on energy transition work, Robert Eberhardt is especially well-regarded for his onshore and offshore wind capabilities, while Tatiana Monastyrskaya is a key contact to Blackstone, handling their development and financing instructions. Michael Masri brings a wealth of tax equity financing and tax credit transactions expertise to bear on a number of mandates, and Tatiana Monastyrskaya continues to be a critical advisor to LNG and data center projects. Olivia George is well-versed on a wide array of project finance transaction structures. Tax specialist Sam Kamyans joined the team from Allen & Overy LLP in November 2023. Chaudhry, Nashi and Kamyans operate out of Washington DC, whereas the rest of the team sit in New York.

Finance > Structured finance: securitization Tier 2

Advising both financial institutions and companies across a wide range of industries as issuers, Kirkland & Ellis LLP is well-placed to advise on numerous classes of assets, including in equipment loans, commercial and residential real estate loans, auto loans and dealer floorplan loans. Jeffrey O’Connor leads the practice out of Chicago alongside Janette McMahan in New York. O’Connor maintains a strong ABS practices, with experience in industries ranging from the auto and equipment sectors to oil & gas and healthcare. McMahan is well-practiced in the auto loan and lease sector also, as well as having significant experience in relation to marketplace loans trade receivables transactions. Rudgee Charles and Joel Weinberger provide notable expertise to the team, practicing in Dallas and Chicago respectively. Michael Urschel joined the New York office in June 2024 from Milbank, contributing significant experience across the securitization market.

Government > State attorneys general Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP is well-equipped to support a broad range of companies in matters involving state attorneys general, investigations, and enforcement actions. Split between Chicago and Washington DC, the team routinely engages with some of the largest multistate investigations, covering issues including consumer protection, antitrust, data privacy, and ESG. Chicago-based former Illinois attorney general Lisa Madigan is a breakout star with diverse expertise in the fields of consumer protection, data privacy, healthcare, and the environment, while Donna Welch has secured key wins in litigation against pharmaceutical companies. In DC, Reginald Brown provides strategic counsel and crisis management assistance to clients facing complex and significant regulatory, enforcement and reputational matters, and Jennifer Levy is an excellent choice for state AG litigation, particularly with regard to pharmaceuticals and product liability. Brian Benczkowski has significant investigations and enforcement experience, and counts among his strengths healthcare, tech and financial services. Raya Treiser is a key contact for ESG matters, with strong relationships in the energy sector. Mark Filip, who splits his time between both offices, leads on defenses and investigations concerning pharmaceutical, healthcare, and tech companies, while Olivia Adendorff, who also has a base in Dallas, supports on consumer protection, false advertising, antitrust, and ESG claims.

Intellectual property > Patents: licensing Tier 2

Fielding a team that is experienced in patent licensing, patent portfolio management, and patent infringement litigation, Kirkland & Ellis LLP counts both patent licensors and licensees in its diverse roster of life sciences and tech clients. Key contacts in the team include tech M&A specialist Seth Traxler, who is based in Chicago, and John Lynn, who divides his time between San Francisco and Austin and advises on the tech, data protection, and AI elements of corporate and financing transactions. New York’s David MacDonald frequently works on technology transactions, licensing agreements on behalf of pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and settlement agreements in patent litigation. In his dispute resolution-oriented practice, Chicago-based Russell Levine emphasizes patent infringement matters and disputes relating to technology transfer and patent licensing agreements. Los Angeles’ Ellisen Turner is a key name for complex patent licenses and technology transactions, and in New York, Shellie Freedman is adept at handling IP joint ventures and strategic alliances in addition to licensing matters.

Intellectual property > Patents: litigation (International Trade Commission) Tier 2

With extensive experience in Section 337 actions, Kirkland & Ellis LLP represents both claimants and respondents before the ITC in matters relating to a wide range of products and technologies. In Washington DC, Paul Brinkman is an ITC specialist with a long track record of litigating Section 337 cases, and Gregg LoCascio is capable of acting on a broad range of IP matters. Also in DC, Edward Donovan focuses on tech-related litigation, Karthik Ravishankar has broad experience with ITC investigations related to a variety of technologies, and Christopher Mizzo is an IP disputes expert. The group also Gregory Arovas in New York, who frequently represents tech clients at the ITC, New York-based Todd Friedman, who is a seasoned litigator, and Chicago-based patent infringement expert Jay Emerick.

Investment fund formation and management > Mutual/registered/exchange-traded funds Tier 2

Leading asset managers and alternative sponsors entering the retail market recognize Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s growing practice in the registered funds and BDC space, the latter being a particularly strong suit for the firm. Nicole Runyan leads the New York-based team, working with the team’s major clients including 26North, Apollo and Blue Owl. The team grew significantly in February of 2024, when Goodwin’s entire registered funds team joined the firm, namely Paul Delligatti, Christopher Palmer and Jason Monfort, all of whom substantially bolster the firms offering in the areas of open-end and closed-end funds, exchange traded funds, interval funds and BDCs as well as Andrew Zutz and Nicole Griffin, who handle regulatory, compliance and governance issues.

Media, technology and telecoms > Outsourcing Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s Chicago-based practice advises on an extensive range of matters, including ITO and BPO transactions, strategies for digital transformations, strategic alliances, commercial agreements, and licensing. Engaged by both customer and service providers, the firm is recognized for its experience in the healthcare, financial services, and utilities industries. Neil Hirshman offers expertise in the software development, patent, and tech licensing spheres and is recognized for his ability to handle both domestic and cross-border projects. Industry veteran Gregg Kirchhoefer concentrates on transactional matters, often handling issues in the software and telecoms spaces. Clients regularly rely on Todd Herst for assistance with licensing arrangements and the negotiation of complex tech and data transactions. Kevin Jacobsen‘s scope of work extends to IP-related transactions, in addition to handling transfer agreements and SaaS agreements.

Real estate > Real estate investment trusts (REITs) Tier 2

Advising both public and private REITs, the REITs team at Kirkland & Ellis LLP combines its capital markets, tax, real estate, and M&A expertise to advise on a variety of matters. The offers nationwide expertise across key business centres including New York, Chicago, and Houston. Acquisitions involving REITs and securitization of data centers are some of the recent matters handled by the team. The practice has also assisted healthcare REITs and has helped launch new non-traded REITs in the net lease space. Michael Brueck represents buyers and sellers in REIT M&A, while Mike Beinus handles the tax side of REIT transactions. Both aforementioned lawyers are based in New York.

Tax > US taxes: contentious Tier 2

Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s rapidly growing team covers an extensive range of tax disputes at all judicial levels in addition to offering strengths in alternate dispute resolution methods. The department is regularly sought out by high profile clients, including leading names in the energy, private equity and banking sectors. Key names in Houston include Richard Husseini, a highly experienced practitioner who covers both contentious and non-contentious tax mandates, and David Cole, whose expertise encompasses both federal and state tax matters. Natalie Keller in Chicago is well-versed in audits, appeals, and litigation and regularly works with clients in the energy and financial management sectors. Washington DC lawyer David Foster is well known in the market and has a broad practice which includes transfer pricing, estate and gift taxes, and criminal tax.

Dispute resolution > Appellate: courts of appeals / Appellate: supreme courts (states and federal)

Demonstrating a marked focus on IP-related appeals, satisfied clients of Kirkland & Ellis LLP praise the team as the ‘best in the business’. The firm has a strong presence before the Federal Circuit, which hears federal cases involving patents and trademark registrations, among other specialist issues. Key contact John O’Quinn, who is based in Washington DC, is particularly recommended for IP and regulatory appeals and has argued more than fifty patent appeals in the Federal Circuit. O’Quinn recently teamed up with the IP practice to secure three wins for Intel in the Federal Circuit with the reversal of three unfavorable Patent Trial and Appeal Board rulings. The department also draws on George Hicks, who splits his time between Washington DC and Dallas; New York’s Jay Lefkowitz, who is noted for his record in the life sciences sphere; and Washington DC-based William Burgess.

Dispute resolution > E-discovery Tier 3

The e-discovery practice at Kirkland & Ellis LLP advises major multinational clients involved in high-stakes prosecution and litigation across a diverse spectrum of industries, including financial services, technology, media, healthcare and energy. The practice is led by experienced litigators Vanessa Barsanti and Christopher Costello, from Chicago and Los Angeles respectively. Barsanti has vast experience of advising clients on e-discovery matters from the pre-trial to the post-trial stage, while Costello is particularly adept at acting in matters concerning litigation readiness, document retention and information management. Washington DC-based Amber Whipkey focuses on enforcement investigation-related matters, while Aulden Burcher-DuPont supports the team from New York and is another key member of note. Chicago lawyer Eliza Davis joined the firm in February 2024 from a previous position at Redgrave LLP.

Dispute resolution > Financial services litigation Tier 3

Kirkland & Ellis LLP handles a wide range of financial services litigation, representing clients in securities class actions, M&A cases, investigations and enforcement actions brought forward by the SEC, FINRA, CFTC, and the CFPB, as well as shareholder derivative and structured finance litigation. The firm has experience defending financial institutions and fintech companies, maintaining a multidisciplinary fintech practice which aids clients in regulatory, litigation, and investigative matters. Mark Filip, based between Chicago and Washington DC, is a key member of the group, leading the government enforcement defense and internal investigations practice. As a former judge and DOJ official, he has particular expertise acting as lead counsel in high-stakes matters. In Washington DC, Nader Salehi concentrates on financial fraud defense and insider trading claims brought by the SEC, FINRA, and the DOJ. Other notable names include Washington DC-based Reginald Brown and New York-based Zachary Brez – Brown is noted for his considerable experience representing clients in congressional inquiries and hearings, while Brez is well-regarded for his involvement in securities and international risk matters.

Insurance > Insurance: non-contentious Tier 3

Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s insurance practice offers comprehensive guidance on a variety of high-profile transactions, including M&A, reinsurance, joint ventures, securities offerings, and regulatory matters. Serving a diverse clientele that includes insurers, reinsurers, private equity firms, InsurTech firms, and other participants in the insurance industry, the firm provides tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of each client. Based in New York, Rajab Abbassi brings extensive experience in corporate transactions within the insurance sector, as well as expertise in strategic and governance matters. Parimah Hassouri, also in New York, complements the practice with a focus on insurance regulatory matters, providing regular counsel to both US and international insurers on a wide range of regulatory and corporate issues across various insurance sectors. Her client base encompasses entities operating in life, health, property and casualty, and title insurance industries, as well as private equity funds and other sponsors. Another key member, Kimberly Meng Han, also operating from New York, specializes in representing public companies, private equity sponsors, and private entities in a diverse array of complex business transactions, with a particular emphasis on the insurance industry.

Intellectual property > Trademarks: non-contentious (including prosecution, portfolio management and licensing) Tier 3

With an established presence across retail, consumer, electronics and media sectors to name a few, Kirkland & Ellis LLP harnesses its global network to manage trademark licensing matters, branding, franchising and advertising matters for notable brands such as E.l.f Beauty. Practice head and IP authority Dale Cendali is especially noted for her extensive and wide-ranging experience across trademark, false advertising and trade secrets issues, while Claudia Ray demonstrates comprehensive capabilities that span the entertainment and media, financial services, technology, and consumer products industries. Other key names to note include Mary Mazzello, who regularly advises on branding matters, new product launches, and licensing, and Shanti Sadtler Conway, who bolsters the practice with her ability to handle social media, licensing and right of publicity issues, with Joshua Simmons also being recommended. All listed attorneys are based in New York.

Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: litigation Tier 3

Based primarily in New York, Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s intellectual property practice is comfortable handling critical matters in the entertainment industry. The firm is assisted in its ability to manage high-profile cases by capable lawyers that are skilled in crisis management and communications, and have experience representing in at all levels of the US court system. Dale Cendali is a widely respected IP lawyer with Supreme Court experience, capable of understanding and resolving intricate, novel areas of law. Claudia Ray is a skillful copyright arbitrator and litigator. The firm’s reach is benefited by Los Angeles based Diana Torres, who focuses on false advertising, copyright, contractual issues and commercial strategy. Joshua Simmons is a seasoned appellate and trial litigator that has had success with complex IP and commercial disputes.

Media, technology and telecoms > Media and entertainment: transactional Tier 3

Kirkland & Ellis LLP pulls together a robust transactional offering in the entertainment space, with music catalog acquisitions, joint ventures and strategic partnerships among the firm’s areas of focus. In Chicago, practice head Seth Traxler frequently brings his tech expertise to bear on a range of technology transactions for clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to high-growth start-ups in the media and entertainment space. Spin-offs, carve-outs and securities offerings are among New York-based Edward Lee‘s areas of expertise. In the same office, Shellie Freedman is geared to handle mandates with a technology and IP element, while Rory Wellever and Bernadette Coppola in the Chicago office further bolster the firm’s strength in a diverse range of M&A work. The unit is additionally equipped to handle ESG and data privacy issues as well as regulatory concerns in transactions.

Energy > Energy regulation: oil and gas Tier 4

Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s portfolio in the oil and gas space includes supporting clients on the regulatory aspects of M&A and financing transactions as well as advising them on enforcement issues, compliance, and the development of LNG and pipeline facilities. Further areas of strength for the team are shipper contracts and appellate litigation alongside environmental matters and bankruptcy-related work. Brooksany Barrowes and Andrew Stuyvenberg are main contacts for the practice and are both noted for their experience handling regulatory and transactional matters before FERC and the DOE.

Healthcare > Life sciences Tier 4

Kirkland & Ellis LLP‘s life sciences work brings together a number of the firm’s departments, together handling antitrust proceedings in the sector, while also representing pharmaceutical companies in product liability and personal injury litigation. Such disputes are the domain of Jay Lefkowitz, who also handles False Claims Act and shareholder litigation before Circuit Courts of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Further antitrust litigation experience comes in the form of Devora Allon, who also handles a broad range of commercial litigation. Patent litigation covering pharmaceuticals, medical devices and biotechnology is handled by Jeanna Wacker, and she is also consulted on the IP aspects of corporate and asset transactions. All lawyers mentioned are based in New York.

International trade > Customs, export controls and economic sanctions Tier 4

Kirkland & Ellis LLP’s team is particularly active on behalf of private equity clients, and their portfolio companies, on export controls and economic sanctions matters. The wider firm’s premier transactional offering ensures that it is a first port of call for high-stakes transactional due diligence matters, and also frequently advises on export licensing, internal investigations and enforcement matters. Key contacts include New York-based litigator Zachary Brez, who specializes in complex enforcement and regulatory matters in the international risk sphere, as well as Washington DC-based international trade and national security specialists Mario Mancuso and Ivan Schlager.

Dispute resolution > Leading trial lawyers Tier 5