With a strong international presence, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is a go-to firm for clients seeking guidance on complex cross-border investigations. The team has a broad range of experience advising on matters related to money laundering, tax violations, environmental crimes, and embezzlement, among others. The white-collar and regulatory defense team is co-led by David O’Neil in Washington DC and Helen Cantwell in New York. O’Neil stands out for his work defending individuals who are facing high-profile investigations, while Cantwell is especially recommended for sensitive investigations such as allegations of sexual misconduct in the workplace. Based in Washington DC, Kara Brockmeyer is another prominent member of the team who routinely advises on internal investigations and compliance matters. The firm also has a strong team located in New York, which includes Andrew Ceresney, Mary Jo White, and Bruce Yannett. In particular, Yannett is noted for his expertise in FCPA matters. Lisa Zornberg departed the New York office in August 2023.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Key clients

  • Ripple Labs, Inc
  • NFL Properties, LLC
  • Holcim Group
  • Pacific Investment Management
  • D.E. Shaw & Co.
  • Wellesley Asset Management
  • Ernst & Young
  • SolarWinds Corporation
  • U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security

Work highlights

  • Representing Ripple Labs in the extensive litigation with the SEC, in which it was ruled that XRP is not a security and was not subject to SEC regulation when sold to the general public.
  • Advising and representing the Secretary of Homeland Security in a matter relating to potential impeachment proceedings by the U.S. Congress.
  • Represented a former Fox executive on charges of bribery, in which he was acquitted.

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 lawyers: Advice to corporates
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

David O’Neil, Helen Cantwell

Other key lawyers

Andrew Ceresney, Mary Jo White, Bruce Yannett, Kara Brockmeyer, Jonathan Tuttle, Andrew Levine