Former U.S. Ambassador Julissa Reynoso joins Hogan Lovells Cadwalader’s Disputes practice

Reynoso served as U.S. Ambassador to Spain and Andorra during the Biden Administration, becoming the first woman to hold the position. She previously served in the Biden White House as Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff to First Lady Jill Biden and as co-chair of the White House Gender Policy Council. During the Obama Administration, she served as U.S. Ambassador to Uruguay and as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs. Reynoso joins Hogan Lovells Cadwalader from another international law firm where she built a significant practice.

“We are thrilled to welcome Julissa to Hogan Lovells Cadwalader,” said Des Hogan, Global Head of Disputes. “She brings significant experience in government, diplomacy, and private practice, and an international practice that connects investigations and cross-border disputes – two areas where we do some of our most important work for clients. She is a terrific addition as we build on the momentum of our recent combination.”

Reynoso advises institutions, companies, and individuals on high-stakes government investigations, including congressional inquiries. She also counsels clients on crisis management and handles regulatory enforcement matters, cross-border litigation, and international arbitration, including proceedings under ICC and UNCITRAL rules, as well as bilateral investment treaty disputes. Her practice spans the Americas and Europe, with a strong presence in Latin America and Spain, across sectors including financial services, energy and infrastructure, technology, media, and telecommunications.

“We are incredibly excited to have Julissa join our team,” Stephanie Yonekura, Global Head of Investigations, said. “For clients facing a congressional inquiry or government investigation, the legal questions are often only part of the challenge. Julissa understands the political, commercial, and reputational pressures at play and excels at helping clients find a path forward.”

Beyond her legal practice, Reynoso’s commitment to public service extends to her pro bono work and leadership at prominent cultural, educational, and civic institutions. She serves on the boards of Carnegie Hall, Columbia University, and New York-Presbyterian Hospital, and is a member of the American Law Institute and the Council on Foreign Relations. She has also been active in New York government affairs, serving on the transition teams of New York Attorney General Letitia James, Mayor Zohran Mamdani, and Comptroller Mark Levine.

“Hogan Lovells Cadwalader has a strong presence in the markets that matter to my clients, and that’s important to me as I grow my practice,” Reynoso said. “New York is home for me, but my work and my clients are global, so the firm is a natural fit. I’m excited to work with colleagues around the world and use that platform to do more for my clients.”

Reynoso joins Hogan Lovells Cadwalader amid continued investment following its recent combination. Since July 1, the firm has welcomed nearly 20 lateral hires globally, including partners and senior counsel.

“Julissa is an important arrival for our growing New York team,” said Bill Mills, Office Managing Partner for New York. “Her experience and reputation reflect the caliber of talent we are attracting as we continue to invest in the market.”