Partners Denise Grant (New York-Project Development & Finance) and Paula Anderson (New York-Litigation) were named to the “2018 Most Influential Black Lawyers” list by Savoy Magazine. The listing showcases African-American general counsel, corporate counsel and law firm partners who have been recognized for their stellar accomplishments, leadership and expertise in their respective areas of practice. These visionaries, leaders and advocates are widely recognized for their trail-blazing efforts and for cultivating the next generation of legal professionals by “reaching back” to bring others forward. This is the second time that Denise has won this honor – she was named to this list in 2015 – and the first time for Paula.

Other prominent lawyers featured include Eric Holder, former U.S. Attorney General; Jeh Johnson, former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security; and famed litigator Ted Wells.
“What an honor to again be included among such an impressive group of lawyers,” said Denise, who is routinely recognized as one of the top international finance attorneys, advising financial institutions, including multilateral and export credit agencies, as well as multinational corporations, in their secured and unsecured, domestic and cross-border private financing activities, with a particular focus on Latin America. A longstanding champion of diversity and inclusion, she co-founded the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Committee in New York in 1992 as an associate. “Black and other minority lawyers are breaking new ground every day and overcoming obstacles to become leaders in their fields. The law has great opportunities for young lawyers of diverse backgrounds, and being named to this list of impressive black lawyers reinforces the message that the commitment to succeed, sharing opportunities and encouraging each other makes a positive impact.”

“I am extremely humbled to be listed amongst these great men and women, blazing trails in the legal and corporate worlds,” said Paula, who represents major global corporations across leading industries in high-stakes matters, including Foreign Corrupt Practices Act investigations, cross-border disputes, global anticorruption and sanctions compliance, antitrust litigation and M&A-related litigation. Paula is also committed to pro bono work, representing indigent criminal defendants, political asylum applicants, and victims of human trafficking. She also previously worked to prosecute perpetrators of the Rwandan Genocide and serves as pro bono counsel to the International Criminal Court in its prosecution of crimes against humanity. “This honor represents a validation of the importance of embracing differences in backgrounds and experiences, which fosters new ideas and fresh perspectives and ultimately contributes to the success of the firm and the profession as a whole.”

Savoy Magazine is a national publication that showcases and drives positive dialogue on and about Black culture, from business to politics, entertainment to sports.