Former SEC Lawyer Joins Legal Firm Specializing in Crypto Defense

Former Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) lawyer, Ladan Stewart, known for her involvement in high-profile cases against cryptocurrency companies, has joined the legal firm White&Case. Stewart, who previously represented the SEC in the case against Ripple, brings extensive experience in prosecuting crypto-related cases.

Stewart played a significant role in the SEC's case against Ripple, initiated by the regulator in December 2020. She also participated in cases against former CEO of the bankrupt exchange FTX, Sam Bankman-Fried, and the American cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase. Before joining White & Case, Stewart served as a counsel in the SEC's enforcement division for about eight years. However, she resigned from this position in January, leaving the agency.

White&Case has represented the interests of many cryptocurrency companies in prominent cases, including those against the SEC. Stewart's expertise, particularly in crypto and cybercrime, is expected to benefit industry participants amid increased regulatory scrutiny in recent years. Joel Cohen, a top executive at White&Case, commented that Stewart's experience could provide valuable insights and defense strategies for companies facing regulatory challenges.

The SEC's stringent approach towards cryptocurrency companies has faced criticism not only from industry participants but also from lawmakers. Recently, Republican senators criticized the SEC for its inability to clearly justify its claims against the cryptocurrency company DEBT Box. Last year, New York journalists dubbed SEC Chairman Gary Gensler as the "head of the banana republic."