FinTech Legal - USA - Nationwide
What the team is known for
Willkie Farr & Gallagher frequently acts on FinTech M&A matters. The firm also regularly advises clients on crypto legislation. It has a strong data protection practice, advising clients on privacy issues concerning blockchain-enabled platforms.
Strengths
"The lawyers at Willkie have excellent knowledge of crypto market regulation."
"Willkie has significant depth and a practical approach to matters related to blockchain."
"They are able to bring together both deep knowledge of regulatory requirements on US investment advisers together with knowledge and expertise in complex and evolving digital asset investment environment."
Work highlights
Willkie’s privacy, cybersecurity and data strategy team advised Digital Dollar Foundation and its Board of Directors on existing regulatory financial privacy obligations and cybersecurity considerations, and on considering legal, regulatory and technical means for ensuring the protection of consumer privacy in the contexts of a potential United States Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
Notable practitioners
Christopher Giancarlo is a former CFTC chairman and draws praise from clients and peers alike for his contribution to industry and thought leadership. He is also the founder and director of the Digital Dollar Project, a multi-stakeholder initiative that facilitates the exploration of a United States Central Bank Digital Currency. "Chris adds immense value with his expertise at former chair of the CFTC and understanding of global impact of digital currencies on markets." "Giancarlo is a fantastic lawyer."
Laura Jehl leads the data protection and cybersecurity practice at the firm. Jehl helps clients to respond to significant data breaches and provides guidance on regulatory compliance both domestically and abroad. "Laura is a force. She understands what needs to get accomplished immediately and gets it done. She's a calming influence in the tornado. Laura has an amazing ability to work multiple angles of a problem simultaneously and see around corners." "Laura is a pleasure to work with. She provides a steady hand and confidence during uncertain times. She adeptly manages multiple work streams and rolls up her sleeves for her clients. She is definitely a cyber lawyer to call when the business is at stake." "Laura has provided immeasurable value as a privacy lawyer for the organisation's privacy and security work around digital currencies."
