Overview

Seward & Kissel, founded in 1890, is a leading US law firm with an international reputation for excellence. We have offices in New York City and Washington, DC

Seward & Kissel focuses on corporate and litigation matters that shape how financial services businesses operate, raise capital and manage risk. The firm approaches this work as an integrated effort, bringing together corporate, capital markets and dispute capabilities to address issues in context and help clients move forward with clarity.

Clients include major commercial banks, investment banks, investment advisers and affiliated funds, including mutual funds, hedge funds and private equity funds, as well as broker-dealers, institutional investors and transportation companies, particularly in the maritime sector. Across these relationships, the firm works closely with clients to navigate regulatory and commercial pressures, aligning legal advice with business priorities and market realities.

The firm’s attorneys bring deep experience in their respective areas, with many having built their careers at Seward & Kissel. That continuity supports strong internal collaboration, allowing teams to draw on shared experience and coordinated judgment when advising clients. Matters are handled by lawyers who stay closely involved, consider options and tradeoffs and guide decisions with a clear understanding of how the business operates in practice.

This approach shapes a culture defined by collaboration, accountability and professional excellence. The firm works in step with clients and with one another to deliver advice that is practical, consistent and grounded in judgment.

Founded:
1890
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Practice Areas:
12
Person outline with Best Lawyers logo
Best Lawyers Recognized:
9

Rankings

National

Tier
1
National Ranking
Admiralty and Maritime Law
Tier
1
National Ranking
Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Tier
2
National Ranking
Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law
Tier
2
National Ranking
Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law
Tier
3
National Ranking
Banking and Finance Law
Tier
3
National Ranking
Mutual Funds Law

Regional

New York City

Tier
1
New York City
Admiralty and Maritime Law
Tier
1
New York City
Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Tier
1
New York City
Criminal Defense: White-Collar
Tier
2
New York City
Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law
Tier
2
New York City
Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law
Tier
3
New York City
Real Estate Law

Rankings

National

Tier
1
National Ranking
Admiralty and Maritime Law
Tier
1
National Ranking
Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Tier
2
National Ranking
Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law
Tier
2
National Ranking
Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law
Tier
3
National Ranking
Banking and Finance Law
Tier
3
National Ranking
Mutual Funds Law
Tier
3
National Ranking
Real Estate Law

Regional

New York City

Tier
1
New York City
Admiralty and Maritime Law
Tier
1
New York City
Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
Tier
1
New York City
Criminal Defense: White-Collar
Tier
2
New York City
Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law
Tier
2
New York City
Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law
Tier
3
New York City
Real Estate Law

Washington, D.C.

Tier
2
Washington, D.C.
Mutual Funds Law
Tier
3
Washington, D.C.
Banking and Finance Law

Practice Areas

Seward & Kissel LLP has been ranked by Best Law Firms for excellence in 8 specialties, reflecting the firm's commitment to delivering outstanding legal services.
Additionally, the firm provides services in these practice areas:
  • Admiralty and Maritime Law
  • Banking and Finance Law
  • Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law
  • Criminal Defense: White-Collar
  • Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law
  • FinTech Practice
  • Litigation - Labor and Employment
  • Mergers and Acquisitions Law
  • Mutual Funds Law
  • Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law
  • Real Estate Law
  • Trusts and Estates

Individuals Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America®

Seward & Kissel LLP proudly has 9 lawyers recognized for their outstanding professional performance in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®. This peer-reviewed honor highlights individual excellence and directly qualifies the firm for consideration in the prestigious Best Law Firms rankings. For over four decades, Best Lawyers has been the gold standard for recognizing top legal talent, serving as the cornerstone for Best Law Firms awards. Learn more about our rigorous Best Lawyers research and selection process.
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Client Comments

A strong relationship between a client and their law firm is key to achieving the best possible outcomes. Open communication, trust, and collaboration ensure that attorneys understand each client’s unique goals and needs. Choosing the right firm means finding a team with the experience, knowledge, and dedication to guide you through every stage of the legal process.
Client comments reflect personal opinions and individual experiences. Every case is different, and outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances. Past results and testimonials do not guarantee similar outcomes in future matters. For personalized legal advice, consult directly with an experienced attorney who can evaluate your specific situation and provide tailored guidance.
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Awards

Seward & Kissel LLP is honored to be recognized for excellence by Best Law Firms and other leading legal industry organizations. Our rankings and awards reflect the dedication, skill, and results our attorneys deliver across a wide range of practice areas. In addition to our Best Law Firms awards, Seward & Kissel LLP has earned accolades from respected national and regional publications for outstanding legal service and professional achievement. Explore our awards below to learn more about how Seward & Kissel LLP continues to set the standard for quality legal representation.

Offices & Contacts

New York, NY
Senior Marketing Manager
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