Boston, MA – Sullivan is pleased to announce that its practice groups and attorneys have been highly ranked and recommended in The Legal 500 United States 2024. Peers and more than 300,000 corporate counsel have been surveyed and interviewed globally in the past 12 months to assess law firms’ overall visibility and reputation, culminating in detailed rankings and editorial. The Legal 500 is an independent guide, and firms and individuals are recommended purely on merit.

Sullivan's lawyers received the following rankings in The Legal 500 United States 2024:

Leading Lawyers: The Legal 500’s Guide to Outstanding Lawyers Nationwide

Benjamin Armour - M&A: Middle-Market (Sub-$500m)
Ameek Ashok Ponda - Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) 
Lewis Segall - M&A: Middle-Market (Sub-$500m)
Douglas Stransky - International Tax
Joel Telpner - FinTech

Next Generation Partners: The Legal 500’s Guide to Up-and-Coming Lawyers Nationwide

Nicole Crum - Mutual/Registered/Exchange-Traded Funds
Sarah Wellings - Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

Practice Areas Ranked and Attorneys Recognized

Corporate Governance
A mix of public companies, private companies, trusts and not-for-profit organizations turn to the team at Sullivan & Worcester for its ability to offer advice on a host of matters, including ongoing legal counsel to investment funds and general ongoing board counselling. Nicole Crum focuses on the representation of boards and board committees, regularly advising them on all aspects of governance and compliance, while Boston’s Howard Berkenblit handles ongoing corporate governance and disclosure matters, stock exchange listing standards, and Sarbanes-Oxley Act and Dodd-Frank Act compliance. Both David Leahy and David Mahaffey are frequently engaged by independent directors, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds and closed-end funds.

Dispute Resolution/General Commercial Disputes
Attorneys at Sullivan & Worcester routinely undertake the full spectrum of complex business-critical disputes, with standout expertise in securities litigation, insurance coverage disputes, and sector-specific disputes arising out of the tech and cryptocurrency spaces. Gerry Silver and Patrick Dinardo jointly chair the practice group out of New York and Boston, respectively. Silver’s practice focuses on software, licensing, internet and IT outsourcing, and implementation disputes; Dinardo is mostly engaged in complex contract, trust, real estate, and insolvency-related matters. Other important contacts within the group include fellow Boston-based practitioner Laura Steinberg who is an expert on complex regulatory and fiduciary issues.

Employee Benefits, Executive Compensation and Retirement Plans: Design
Sullivan advises on a range of tax-related issues which arise from employment and benefit matters. David Guadagnoli leads the practice. Described as "an exceptional resource" for clients, Guadagnoli has strong experience in advising on tax-qualified retirement plans, particularly 401(k) and 403(b) plans. Amy Sheridan focuses on regulatory and tax requirements for welfare plans. Sheridan’s recent work includes assisting household employers with tax-qualified contribution plans. Both individuals are based in Boston. Clients commented:

"Attorneys at Sullivan & Worcester bring years of experience as well as their forward focus on regulatory development to ensure that the client has the right information to execute business goals while remaining compliant."

"Very well up to date on current topics. Great research abilities and very responsive. Good communication and project management."

"The team provides flexible support and has been very accommodating to meet challenging deadlines. They do this as a team, ensuring that the clients make successful decisions."

Environment: Transactional
In the environmental sector, Sullivan & Worcester is known for handling a range of due diligence and regulatory work in REIT transactions, where the team is actively involved in land use, zoning and environmental permitting issues. From the Boston office, Victor Baltera advises on regulatory compliance and permitting matters related to environmental law and land use. Boston-based Gregory Sampson recently joined the team from Womble Bond Dickinson, bringing new expertise in the development of contaminated properties and renewable energy and infrastructure projects.

FinTech
Lauded by clients for its "unique blend of traditional expertise and forward-thinking adaptability," the New York-based practice often advises policymakers on regulatory FinTech matters and is well-regarded for its broad blockchain expertise. Joel Telpner and Natalie Lederman jointly lead the department, the pair of whom are praised for their "deep expertise, innovative thinking, and client-centric approach." Lederman is also experienced in consumer finance transactions and regulatory digital asset matters, notably token generation events. Scott Kaufman is highlighted for his capabilities in private and public securities offerings and SEC regulation matters, while in Boston, Douglas Stransky is well-equipped to advise clients on the tax aspects of cryptocurrency. Amy Zuccarello advises borrower and creditor clients on distressed transactions, bankruptcy, and out-of-court restructurings. Client testimonials include:

"They are very well-versed in cryptocurrency US laws, rules, and regulations so their counsel has been valuable in product development."

"Since they are very knowledgeable, it makes interacting with them and discussing ideas easy and free flowing."

"Sullivan & Worcester LLP distinguishes itself through its unique blend of traditional expertise and forward-thinking adaptability. This firm is particularly notable for its deep involvement in innovation, including investment management, blockchain technology, and other emerging technologies."

Investment Fund Formation and Management: Private Equity Funds (Including Venture Capital)
The firm represents private investment fund sponsors and investors as well as venture capital firms on the formation and registration, maintenance and liquidation of private investment funds, covering diverse asset classes, with a notable specialism in real estate funds. A trio of practitioners oversee the practice: Nicole Rives, who primarily works with institutional investors and asset management departments of insurance companies on investment related matters; Lewis Segall, whose broad practice covers equity and debt financings, joint ventures and M&A; and John Hunt who advises across diverse asset classes and handles regulatory and compliance issues. William Hanson supports the team and is praised by clients as being "experienced, well-informed and commercial." Other key lawyers include Johanna Colpritt and Emily Goldschmidt. Testimonials from clients include:

"We deal primarily with Will Hanson on LP portfolio secondaries. He is experienced, well-informed and commercial. Will is responsive and moves deals forward."

Land Use/Zoning
Life science and laboratory, office, mixed-use, market rate housing, student housing and affordable housing projects, among others, comprise much of the deal flow seen by the rapidly expanding practice group at Sullivan & Worcester. The group represents a client portfolio that includes some of the most active developers in the greater Boston area on complex permitting, land-use, and environmental law mandates. Ashley Brooks serves as practice co-leader, whilst Victor Baltera counsels clients on regulatory compliance and permitting matters.

M&A: Corporate and Commercial: Venture Capital and Emerging Companies
Sullivan's emerging businesses with equity and debt financings, tech license negotiations, IP protection, and liquidity solutions. The firm represents venture capital entities and angel investors focusing on early-stage investments in sectors spanning the software, telecoms, therapeutics, and fintech industries. Utilizing its Tel Aviv office, the team supports Israeli tech companies in venture capital fundraisings, establishing joint ventures, and US stock exchange listings. Co-heading the practice from New York, Scott Kaufman brings "exceptional legal expertise" to the fintech and blockchain spaces. Lewis Segall, based in Boston and also leading the team, advises companies on M&A, financings, and joint ventures. Other key lawyers include Benjamin Armour and Michael Student. Clients noted:

"Their expertise is exceptional, they are swift in their response to your needs, and go above and beyond for their clients."

"Scott Kaufman has become an invaluable asset to our companies as well as a friend. He is not just our attorney, but cares about our business and always goes the extra mile to bring value to the relationship. We appreciate his exceptional legal expertise and quick response to our needs."

M&A: Middle-Market (Sub-$500m)
Sullivan has established itself as a key middle-market firm for seller clients across a diverse set of industry sectors, including fintech and gaming. The team is also known on the market for its ability to handle public-to-public mergers. In Boston, team heads Lewis Segall and Benjamin Armour spearhead the firm’s offering. The latter is a key contact for transactional work involving private companies, while the former is regularly called upon by financial institutions to advise on financing matters and investments. Also in Boston, Avi Rao's expertise encompasses internal reorganizations and restructurings, while New York-based Natalie Lederman is singled out for her knowledge of regulatory issues relating to blockchain and digital assets.

"The firm has a breadth of knowledge and resources to tap into to assist us in a variety of matters. They are skilled at simplifying complex situations and presenting the pros and cons of each so that we can make informed decisions."

"Lewis Segall demonstrates a strong understanding of the matters we have presented to him. He helps us to think through the complexities of each situation in the context of the other aspects of our business."

Mutual/Registered/Exchange-Traded Funds
Sullivan has extensive experience advising independent directors and trustees of investment management firms, with the establishment and registering of new funds, including but not limited to exchange traded funds, variable retail and insurance open- and closed ended funds. The investment management team is also frequently engaged as fund counsel in relation to compliance and shareholder matters and board advice. David Leahy and David Mahaffey jointly lead the practice from the firm's Washington DC location, with the former advising clients on the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, while the latter specializes on federal securities law, for a whole host of registered funds clients. Nicole Crum is another key name in Washington DC and works with boards and board committees on staying compliant with SEC regulations and through government and internal investigations, while John Chilton is well versed in registered fund transactions, and Domenick Pugliese counsels independent directors of mutual funds, ETFs and variable annuity trusts. Rachael Schwartz was promoted to partner in January 2023. Testimonials from clients include:

"Experience in 1940 Act registered funds. Experience in working with independent trustees. Experience in practicing before the SEC. Collaborative style and exceptional people including diversity."

"The attorneys we deal with are very knowledgeable and experienced. They listen carefully and provide solid and practical advice."

"David Mahaffey – David is very experienced in this area. He is responsive, timely and helps us seek practical solutions to issues."

Real Estate
With roots in Boston, Sullivan's real estate development group handles an array of single and portfolio transactions, leasing, and permitting matters for developers, private equity funds, REITs, and government agencies, among others. Noted for its affordable housing and community development sub-group alongside its environment and natural resources group, the practice has experience across a wide stroke of asset classes that includes multifamily and industrials as well as hospitality and life sciences. Ashley Brooks leads the real estate group with experience covering development and finance, including the likes of workouts, construction loans and fund formation. Transactional lawyer John Steiner, director of Sullivan's real estate department, is noted for his skill advising REITs and foreign investors as well as for his experience in the senior housing sector. Karen Kepler is another key member, mentioned for her expertise advising on real estate tax credits among areas like condominiums, air-rights, and ground leases.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
Public and private REITs both benefit from their relationships with the REITs practice at Sullivan & Worcester LLP, which specializes in REIT tax issues, M&A, secured and unsecured financings, and preferred and common equity offerings. Ameek Ashok Ponda is a director in the tax department and is an authority on REIT tax issues and regularly lectures at Boston University. Practice head Angela Gomes is a corporate finance specialist and handles securities matters for REITs. Avinash Rao advises public companies on securities law and represents REITs in M&A, equity and debt financings, and joint ventures. Shu Wei handles equity and debt financing work. Also noted is newly-promoted partner Sarah Wellings who excels in REIT-related tax issues. All aforementioned lawyers are part of the Boston practice. Client testimonials include:

"The team I work with at Sullivan is well versed in REIT matters and always extremely responsive."

"Sarah Wellings has been a joy to work with. She pays attention to detail, is extremely easy to work with and always provides prompt and valuable guidance as needed."

Tax - International Tax
The international tax practice has extensive experience in strategic tax planning and implementation for a wide range of multinational corporations including cross-border M&A, restructuring, and global tax controversy. The Boston-based team also has strengths in international taxation matters for individuals, including international trust and estate counselling for high net-worth families and pre-US residency tax planning. Practice head Douglas Stransky has a special focus on domestic clients investing in foreign jurisdictions and has extensive expertise advising clients on the tax implications of multi-jurisdictional cryptocurrency and fintech-related ventures. Lewis Greenwald has considerable experience advising on tax-efficient acquisitions, transfer pricing planning, and US international tax compliance. Eric Rietveld concentrates his practice on the tax planning of REITs, real estate funds, and international tax. Client testimonials include:

"Lewis Greenwald stands out as an exemplary member of the team. His expertise and trustworthiness are evident in every interaction. What sets Lewis apart is his exceptional ability to orchestrate collaboration within the team and across the firm, ensuring that clients receive well-rounded and balanced legal advice. His knowledge and skill in navigating complex tax matters are commendable, making him a valuable asset not only to the team but also to clients seeking expert guidance in international tax matters."

"The practice is unique in that the people have both a broad base of tax knowledge as well as an In depth knowledge of the key areas of tax that are typically encountered by Multinational Companies. The team also has relationships with many other tax professionals in a just about every jurisdiction in the world where most USA Multinationals operate. These professionals are able to give you a basic foundation for operating in a foreign jurisdiction and the key areas that are different than USA and other Western countries."

Tax - U.S. Taxes (Contentious)
Sullivan is particularly adept at handling SALT matters and chiefly represents high-profile clients facing tax controversy within Massachusetts. Jointly leading the team are Richard Jones, David Nagle and Daniel Ryan, all of whom are based in Boston. Jones is a SALT expert who has extensive experience working with clients in the technology, retail, and media industries. Nagle, who is a co-managing partner of the firm, additionally covers federal disputes, as does Ryan, who also maintains a non-contentious practice which covers transactional planning. Caroline Kupiec, who also works from Boston, provides key support to clients facing audits and litigation.

Tax - U.S. Taxes (Non-Contentious)
Sullivan & Worcester's Boston-based non-contentious tax group offers broad expertise to a wide range of clients, from high-net-worth individuals to mutual funds, with a particularly strong reputation for representing REITs. Ameek Ashok Ponda, focusing on corporate M&A structuring, REIT transactions, and cross-border financings, heads the practice alongside Richard Jones, who has extensive experience in corporate, personal income, and sales/use tax matters. International tax practice head Douglas Stransky offers niche expertise in the tax implications of cross-border cryptocurrency and fintech-related ventures. Firm managing partner David Nagle, handling taxable and non-taxable acquisitions, among other issues, is also a key contact. REITs specialist Sarah Wellings, promoted to partner in January 2024, advises on a variety of public and private matters, including those involving data centers, office buildings, and distributed antenna systems. Other key lawyers include Christopher Curtis and Marc Stern.

About Sullivan
Sullivan & Worcester (Sullivan) is a global law firm with approximately 200 attorneys in Boston, London, New York, Tel Aviv and Washington, D.C. Sullivan’s clients, including Fortune 500 companies, leading financial services firms and asset managers, boards of directors, real estate companies, and emerging businesses, rely on Sullivan’s ability to navigate complex legal and operational landscapes, the impeccable judgment of its lawyers, and its commitment to best‑in‑class client service.