The ‘world class’ data and technology transactions team at Latham & Watkins LLP counts emerging start-ups as well as tech giants amongst its key roster of clients. Adopting a holistic approach by collaborating with the firmwide financial regulatory and data privacy teams, the practice routinely acts on high-value tech deals and has particular expertise handling projects involving AI, digital assets, and semiconductor design. The practice is led by Boston-based Sarah Gagan, who is well-versed in handling systems integration projects and complex licensing and development arrangements across the tech and life sciences sectors. Anthony Klein is based in Silicon Valley and concentrates on guiding clients through cross-border tech transactions. In Los Angeles, Ghaith Mahmood is recognized for his strengths in Metaverse and blockchain matters and also counsels clients on the IP and regulatory implications of NFT platforms. Clients come to Silicon Valley-based Michelle Ontiveros Gross for advice on the protection of tech assets and on matters relating to cloud computing and data security. Kieran Dickinson, who works from the Washington DC office, covers the structuring and negotiation of complex tech and IP licenses, while also demonstrating know-how in open-source software work.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The team works well together, handing off specific matters based on the individual attorney's expertise, providing a well-rounded result.’

  • ‘The individuals I work with are well versed in this area of law, with each having their own areas of strength. They are extremely responsive and provide good advice within reasonable time periods.’

  • ‘The team is very knowledgeable, practical and quick to respond.’

  • ‘I value most the comfort that when they take on an assignment or project for us, I know it will be done correctly. On top of that, they are very knowledgeable and have the resources to handle any question that crops up.’

  • ‘Latham & Watkins LLP's tech transactions team is world class, with the ability to operate leanly and scale up in both size and expertise as needed. I would use them again for any transaction, in any market, with absolute confidence.’

  • ‘The individuals in the team are not only intelligent and creative, but also a pleasure to work alongside.'

  • ‘The team is incredibly knowledgeable, efficient and responsive. They are my go-to for new information on emerging technologies.’

  • ‘Ghaith Mahmood is a market leader on the legal implications of AI technology.’

Key clients

  • Advanced Micro Devices
  • Airbnb
  • Amphenol Corp.
  • Apex Technology
  • ArchiMed
  • Autograph
  • Binance
  • Chevron USA
  • Clarify Health Solutions
  • Crimson Renewable Energy
  • Dapper Labs
  • Fandom, Inc.
  • Hyundai Motor Corporation
  • Intuitive Machines
  • Intuity Medical, Inc.
  • KKR
  • Leonard Green & Partners
  • Linode
  • Lucid Energy Group II
  • Madison Dearborn Partners
  • Meta Platforms, Inc.
  • Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Holdings, Inc.
  • Mojito, Inc.
  • NVIDIA
  • One Rock Capital
  • Ouster, Inc.
  • Pinterest
  • Plastiq, Inc.
  • Polygon Studios
  • RealBlocks
  • Silicon Motion Technology Corporation
  • Tower Semiconductor
  • Viasat

Work highlights

  • Advised Marcolin S.p.A. and its shareholders on the negotiation of a long-term license with The Estée Lauder COmpanies for TOM FORD Eyewear.
  • Advised multiple clients, including Meta Platforms, on developments surrounding NFTs, blockchain, the Metaverse, and Web 3.0, and their convergence with intellectual property and commercial law.
  • Advised multiple clients in the semiconductor space, including Tower Semiconductor and Silicon Motion Technology Corporation, on the complex diligence, negotiations and compliance matters in connection with their strategic transactions, acquisitions, and investments.

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.
Leading lawyers
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Sarah Gagan

Other key lawyers

Anthony Klein, Ghaith Mahmood, Michelle Ontiveros Gross, Kieran Dickinson