Best Structured Finance Lawyers in Washington

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Fenwick & West LLP
Seattle, United States

Founded in 1972
1,118 people in their team
English
Fenwick & West LLP provides comprehensive legal services to ground-breaking technology and life sciences companies - at every stage of their lifecycle - and the investors that partner with them. We craft innovative, cost-effective and practical solutions on issues ranging from venture capital,...
Perkins Coie LLP
Seattle, United States

Founded in 1912
2,875 people in their team
English
Perkins Coie is a leading international law firm that is known for providing high value, strategic solutions and extraordinary client service on matters vital to our clients' success. With more than 1,200 attorneys in offices across the United States and Asia, we provide a full array of corporate,...
Dorsey & Whitney LLP
Seattle, United States

Founded in 1912
1,390 people in their team
English
worldwide advantageYOUR BUSINESS REQUIRES AN ADVANTAGE, AN EDGE, TO SUCCEED IN A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE WORLD.Dorsey’s lawyers and staff can help you gain that edge by applying superb legal knowledge and skills with practical wisdom and a deep understanding of your business and industry.We serve...
Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP.
Seattle, United States

Founded in 1974
1,688 people in their team
English
As the only law firm with offices and attorneys in all 50 states, we deliver maximum value to our clients by combining the resources of a full-service national firm with the local knowledge of a regional firm. Featuring more than 1,000 lawyers nationwide, we provide comprehensive litigation and...
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About Structured Finance Law in Washington, United States

Structured finance is a branch of finance that involves complex financial instruments and transactions, often used by companies, banks, and other organizations to manage risk, raise capital, or optimize balance sheets. In Washington, United States, structured finance arrangements may include asset-backed securities, collateralized loan obligations, mortgage-backed securities, and other credit-linked products. These transactions are governed by various federal and state laws and require careful legal structuring to comply with regulatory requirements and protect interested parties.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Structured finance deals are intricate and carry significant legal and financial implications. You may need a lawyer if:

  • You are a business seeking to securitize assets such as loans, receivables, or real estate portfolios.
  • You want to invest in asset-backed or mortgage-backed securities and need to understand associated risks and obligations.
  • Your company is exploring alternative financing options and needs guidance on compliance and transaction structuring.
  • You are a lender or financial institution involved in creating, selling, or purchasing structured finance instruments.
  • You face litigation, regulatory investigation, or compliance enforcement related to structured finance activities.
  • You require counsel on taxation, bankruptcy, or insolvency issues impacting structured financial products.

Local Laws Overview

In Washington, structured finance is influenced by a blend of federal law, such as securities regulations from the Securities and Exchange Commission, and specific state statutes. The Washington State Securities Act regulates the offer and sale of securities, including complex structured products, within the state. Transaction parties must comply with registration and disclosure requirements unless a valid exemption is available. Washington's Uniform Commercial Code governs secured transactions, which is critical for structuring deals involving secured assets. Additionally, consumer protection laws and lending statutes may impose further requirements on certain types of structured finance, particularly if they impact individuals or small businesses. Legal counsel can help navigate state-specific rules, especially as they intersect with federal law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is structured finance?

Structured finance refers to financial arrangements involving pooling of assets and subsequent issuance of securities based on those assets. It is often used by large organizations to manage financial risks and access capital.

Are structured finance transactions regulated in Washington?

Yes. Both federal and Washington state laws regulate structured finance transactions, especially when securities are offered or sold to residents or companies in the state.

What types of assets can be securitized in Washington?

Commonly securitized assets include mortgages, vehicle loans, credit card receivables, equipment leases, and other receivables. Legality depends on asset type, transaction structure, and compliance with relevant laws.

What agencies oversee structured finance in Washington?

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions and federal regulators like the Securities and Exchange Commission oversee compliance with relevant securities and lending laws.

Do I need to register my structured finance product with the state?

Most structured finance securities must be registered unless a statutory exemption applies. Some private placements and institutional transactions may qualify for exemptions but still require legal scrutiny.

What are the risks in structured finance?

Risks include credit risk, market risk, legal and regulatory risk, and operational risk. Poor structuring or lack of compliance can lead to legal disputes or regulatory penalties.

Is structured finance suitable for small businesses?

Structured finance is typically more suitable for larger entities due to the complexity and costs involved. However, small businesses may benefit in some cases, such as through asset-backed lending.

What should I look for in a structured finance lawyer?

You should seek a lawyer with expertise in finance, securities regulations, commercial law, tax, and familiarity with Washington-specific legal requirements related to structured finance.

How long does it take to structure a finance deal?

The timeline varies depending on deal complexity, asset type, regulatory requirements, and due diligence. It can range from several weeks to several months.

What happens if a structured finance transaction is found non-compliant?

Non-compliance may lead to legal action, financial penalties, investor lawsuits, or transaction unwinding. Early engagement with a qualified legal professional is essential to avoid such outcomes.

Additional Resources

Those seeking more information or assistance with structured finance in Washington may benefit from the following resources:

  • Washington State Department of Financial Institutions
  • Securities and Exchange Commission Regional Office
  • American Bar Association - Structured Finance and Securitization Committee
  • Washington State Bar Association’s Business Law Section
  • Local law schools with finance and securities law clinics

Next Steps

If you need legal advice regarding structured finance in Washington, start by:

  1. Defining your needs and gathering key information about your prospective transaction or investment.
  2. Consulting a law firm or attorney who specializes in structured finance, securities, or business law in Washington.
  3. Preparing questions about risks, compliance obligations, suitable transaction structures, and timelines.
  4. Requesting a review of documents, contracts, and any disclosures relevant to your transaction.
  5. Remaining engaged throughout the process to ensure ongoing compliance and address any issues promptly as your transaction proceeds.

Professional legal advice is essential to protecting your interests and ensuring a successful outcome in the complex area of structured finance.

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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.