Enforcement actions pursued by state attorneys general can be difficult for clients, because unlike their federal counterparts, state attorneys general typically have broad jurisdiction over an array of industries. Add coordinated action to the mix, and state attorneys general can seek to impact target companies across the nation.
The offices of state attorneys general have taken lead roles in pursuing claims related to security products, technology platforms and social media, opioids, climate change, data privacy, digital assets, and other significant issues. Debevoise has been on the front lines in such matters, representing clients in some of the highest profile matters on these topics. Our strength in both criminal and civil defense and our true partnership between those practices provide clients with the best possible advice in helping them respond to state AGs.
Debevoise’s White Collar and Regulatory Defense and Commercial Litigation Groups have deep experience representing clients in investigations and litigation brought by state regulators. Several of our attorneys previously worked for these state agencies, including leadership roles in the New York State Attorney General’s Office. We regularly engage with state regulators to narrow the scope of investigations, negotiate resolutions of investigations and, in those instances where settlement discussions fail, defend clients in litigation brought by state agencies or brought jointly by state and federal agencies.
Our attorneys are able to quickly recognize and focus on the issues most relevant to the regulators in order to determine the strategy most likely to achieve the best available outcome for our clients. As a result, Debevoise can guide clients through regulatory investigations, including joint investigations pursued by multiple law enforcement authorities, in a manner that minimizes disruption to business operations and reputational risk.