Gibson Dunn

Leading enforcement defence and regulatory counsel for high-profile crypto matters

Los Angeles, USAEst. 18901,900+ lawyers, 21 offices

Quick Facts

Best For
Enforcement defence, regulatory investigations, and Washington DC policy engagement
Pricing
Premium BigLaw rates

Overview

Gibson Dunn has carved out a strong position in crypto legal through its enforcement defence capabilities and regulatory counsel work, particularly as the SEC and CFTC have become more active in digital asset enforcement. The firm advises on virtual asset payment and custody models, NFT platforms, and trading infrastructure, and is known for its strong Washington DC regulatory relationships — a critical asset for clients navigating US digital asset policy. A go-to choice when enforcement risk or regulatory scrutiny is the primary concern.

Focus Areas

SEC & CFTC Enforcement DefenceVirtual Asset Payment ModelsCustody Legal FrameworksNFT Platforms & MarketplacesTrading InfrastructureRegulatory InvestigationsCongressional Engagement

Who They Work With

Exchanges Under Regulatory ScrutinyToken Issuers in Enforcement MattersCustody ProvidersNFT PlatformsInstitutional Digital Asset Businesses

Notable Work

Enforcement defence and regulatory counsel in major SEC and CFTC digital asset investigations; NFT platform advisory.

Key Contacts

  • Michael Dore
  • Adam Lapidus

Office Locations

New YorkWashington DCLondonSingapore

Frequently Asked Questions about Gibson Dunn

What is Gibson Dunn's primary focus in the crypto legal market?
Gibson Dunn is particularly strong in enforcement defence and regulatory counsel — making it the go-to choice when a project faces SEC or CFTC scrutiny, is subject to a regulatory investigation, or needs to engage with US policymakers on digital asset legislation. The firm also advises on virtual asset payment models, custody frameworks, and NFT platforms, but enforcement defence is where it truly excels.
Does Gibson Dunn have meaningful Washington DC relationships for crypto policy?
Yes — Gibson Dunn's Washington DC presence and relationships are considered one of its key assets for crypto clients navigating US digital asset policy. This matters increasingly as Congress and regulators develop clearer frameworks for digital assets, and the firm's ability to engage directly with regulatory staff and Congressional offices is a meaningful differentiator.
Who are the key crypto contacts at Gibson Dunn?
Michael Dore and Adam Lapidus are the firm's primary digital assets practitioners. The firm operates from 21 offices globally, with New York, Washington DC, and Los Angeles being the most relevant for crypto regulatory and enforcement matters.
Is Gibson Dunn suitable for early-stage crypto projects?
Gibson Dunn's premium rates and focus on complex enforcement and regulatory matters make it less suitable for routine early-stage legal needs. Where it is appropriate even for smaller projects is when an enforcement action, regulatory investigation, or Congressional inquiry arises — situations where the stakes justify premium counsel regardless of company size.
What notable crypto work has Gibson Dunn been involved in?
Gibson Dunn has served as enforcement defence and regulatory counsel in major SEC and CFTC digital asset investigations, advised custody providers on legal frameworks, and provided counsel to NFT platforms and marketplaces. Specific client names are not publicly disclosed, but the firm's enforcement practice has been involved in the most significant US crypto regulatory matters of the past several years.
How do I approach Gibson Dunn for crypto enforcement defence?
Direct outreach to Michael Dore or Adam Lapidus via the firm's website is the appropriate route for enforcement matters. Given the time-sensitivity of enforcement situations, the firm is equipped to mobilise quickly. For proactive regulatory strategy work, introductions via existing counsel or industry contacts are the most efficient path.

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