Suggestions
Richard Kanowitz
Haynes and Boone Partner, Corporate Restructuring & Bankruptcy
Professional Background
Richard Kanowitz is an esteemed partner in the Corporate Restructuring and Bankruptcy practice at Haynes and Boone, where he has established himself as a leader in corporate reorganization and bankruptcy litigation. Drawing on his extensive experience, Richard represents a diverse clientele, including corporate debtors, creditors, and equity holders across numerous industries, such as financial services, cryptocurrency exchanges, digital asset lending, energy, oil and gas, healthcare, telecommunications, biofuels, biotech, manufacturing, real estate, and retail. His expertise enables him to navigate complex legal landscapes, providing strategic guidance and advocacy for his clients in high-stakes Chapter 11 cases.
In addition to his legal practice, Richard has taken on a crucial role in the nonprofit sector. He is a co-founder and board member emeritus of Families Fighting Flu (FFF), a dedicated organization focused on the prevention of influenza-related complications among children. Under Richard's leadership, FFF has made significant strides in advocating for flu awareness and vaccination, working alongside families who have experienced the devastating impact of the flu.
Education and Achievements
Richard Kanowitz completed his Juris Doctor (JD) at the Maurice A. Deane School of Law at Hofstra University, where he honed his legal skills and developed a deep understanding of corporate law. Prior to his legal education, he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at the University of Michigan. This academic foundation has equipped Richard with a strong analytical framework and the ability to understand complex regulatory environments.
Over the years, Richard has garnered extensive experience in the legal field, having held prominent positions at prestigious firms like Haynes and Boone and Cooley LLP. His successful tenure as a partner at these firms showcases his commitment to excellence in legal practice, providing innovative solutions to his clients facing financial distress and requiring adept guidance through reorganization processes.
Notable Contributions
Richard's contributions extend beyond his legal practice. As a passionate advocate for health and wellness, he has played an integral part in FFF's mission to raise awareness about the importance of flu vaccinations and the serious impacts of influenza on children. His dedication to this cause, coupled with his legal acumen, exemplifies his commitment to making a difference, both in the courtroom and in wider communities.
Through his leadership at FFF, Richard has helped shape public policy discussions around preventive healthcare, empowering families and communities to take action against the flu. His work has touched the lives of many, fostering a network of families and health care practitioners united in a common goal to protect children from the serious implications of influenza.
Richard Kanowitz's multifaceted career in law and advocacy illustrates a profound commitment to his clients' needs and societal health. With his rich background, he remains at the forefront of corporate law, while also making a lasting impact through his nonprofit endeavors.
Highlights
Haynes Boone Wins Restructuring of the Year (>>$5 Billion) at M&A Advisor's 18th Annual Turnaround Awards:
I am proud to say our firm, Haynes Boone, has been recognized by The M&A Advisor as Restructuring of the Year (>>$5 Billion) for our representation of BlockFi and its affiliates in their Chapter 11 cases pending in the US Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey. This highly complex case started in the wake of the 2022 crypto winter and FTX collapse. Haynes Boone professionals quickly assembled to assist BlockFi through immense financial pressures and challenges. BlockFi filed Chapter 11 on November 28, 2022, and the Haynes Boone team worked diligently with the BlockFi executives, tackling novel issues of bankruptcy law and obtaining court authority to return 100% of BlockFi Wallet Account digital assets to creditors, and confirming a plan faster than any other crypto debtor. Litigation in this case had Haynes Boone attorneys representing BlockFi in many different courts and jurisdictions—Delaware, New York, New Jersey, Antigua and Bermuda. The BlockFi plan of reorganization was confirmed because of hard-fought negotiations and provides the maximum possible return of value to BlockFi’s creditors, with distributions to begin this year. Thank you to the management at BlockFi for trusting our team! Congratulations to my fellow colleagues who worked on this deal: Alex Grishman, Matt Frankle, Frasher Murphy and Matthew Ferris. If you are interested in reading more about the deal or the award, click here:
