Michael Basile
Cooley LLPWith extensive knowledge of FCC proceedings, Cooley LLP’s communications team offers advice across the spectrum of FCC-regulated areas. Handling a full range of regulatory procedures before the FCC, the practice is composed of experts on both the business and regulatory aspects of media procurement and distribution, and video and music technologies. The team also advises space and satellite clients on communications regulatory aspects. Michael Basile and Robert McDowell co-lead the firm’s global communications practice; McDowell represents clients before the FCC, Congress and other regulatory bodies, while transactions specialist Basile advises TV and radio broadcast companies on M&A, financings and commercial transactions. JG Harrington specializes in telecoms matters and new technologies and Travis LeBlanc’s expertise spans telecoms, cybersecurity and data privacy. With great experience in the sector, Jason Rademacher advises broadcast, cable, technology, new media and telecoms clients on FCC and federal courts proceedings. Henry Wendel is also active in FCC matters, experienced advising media and broadcast clients on enforcement matters and regulatory issues. All individuals mentioned are based in Washington DC.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Cooley is one of only three real firms that still provide broadcast regulatory service, and they do it at a very high level.’
‘Jason Rademacher is one of the few experts left and brings an acute understanding of what’s “worth it”. Christy Burrow is on top of everything and provides good quality “gut check” advice and counsel.’
‘The attorneys are diligent, intelligent, well connected, and try to bring all their resources for a unique and innovative solution to every problem.’
‘The attorneys are thoughtful and kind, with helpful insights and great legal and policy advice.’
‘Outstanding knowledge and networks in Washington, DC covering wireless technology and regulations: at FCC, on the Hill, with major wireless players.’
‘Robert McDowell is smart, passionate, and very client-service focused. He is a former FCC Commissioner and is a great lawyer and strategist.’
‘We use Cooley for telecom compliance and complaint responses.’
‘Henry Wendel is incredibly detail oriented, organized and has subject matter experience in the areas of interest. Most important, Henry bring a practical perspective making the tedious work less burdensome and helps to give realistic guidance to the business.’
Key clients
- Apollo Global Management
- Cox Media Group
- Gray Television
- CBS and Fox Affiliates Association
- E.W. Scripps Company (Scripps Media)
- WBOC-TV
- Block Communications, Inc.
- Cowles Company (KHQ, Inc. and Cowles Montana Media Company)
- RNN National, LLC
- Outside Television, Urban One, Moy Communications, Granite Television, Mitts Telecasting, and Nashville Broadcasting
- Midcontinent Communications
- Iridium Communications
- EchoStar/Hughes
- Axiom Spac
Work highlights
- Represented Apollo Global Management, Inc. in the attempted $8.6 billion purchase by Standard General of leading television broadcaster TEGNA Inc.
- Acting as outside communications regulatory and policy counsel for Cox Media Group, notably advising on its successful sale of four radio stations in the Houston market to Urban One.
- Advises Gray Television on the development of its television and video portfolio, including representation before the FCC on itspending ‘Significantly Viewed’ proceeding.
Lawyers
Leading lawyers
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Robert McDowell
Cooley LLPNext Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Jason Rademacher
Cooley LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Michael Basile, Robert McDowell