Washington, D.C. based law firm Steptoe has announced a significant addition to its team, with the appointment of Alexandra Scheibe as a partner. Scheibe, a seasoned attorney with two decades of experience in financial technology and blockchain, joins Steptoe from McDermott, Will & Emery, where she led the firm's financial technology and blockchain practice.
In her new role at Steptoe, Scheibe will continue to focus on blockchain, cryptocurrency, derivatives, and financial technology, leveraging her extensive expertise to advise financial institutions and other clients on transactional and regulatory matters. Her track record includes representing clients in high-stakes cases and complex regulatory environments, making her a valuable asset to Steptoe's growing financial services practice.
Scheibe's notable accomplishments at McDermott include her involvement in significant cases such as filing an amicus brief in support of Coinbase's defense against a lawsuit by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). While a federal judge recently allowed the lawsuit to proceed, her work demonstrates her dedication to advocating for clients in the rapidly evolving landscape of digital assets and securities regulation.
Additionally, Scheibe played a pivotal role in representing INX, a blockchain-based global trading platform, in its initial public offering of SEC-registered tokens. Her experience in navigating the complexities of blockchain and cryptocurrency regulation further strengthens Steptoe's capabilities in this burgeoning area of law.
Steptoe Chair Gwen Renigar expressed enthusiasm about Scheibe's addition to the firm, highlighting the strategic growth of the financial innovation and regulation practice to meet the evolving needs of clients in a highly complex regulatory environment. Her arrival follows a series of recent hires aimed at bolstering Steptoe's expertise in technology and regulatory matters within the financial services sector.
Earlier this month, the firm welcomed Kate Jensen back as a partner, who previously served as corporate counsel at Amazon Web Services. In January 2024, Steptoe brought on Stephen Aschettino, former head of the U.S. fintech practice at Norton Rose Fulbright, as a partner in New York. These hires underscore her commitment to assembling a diverse and experienced team capable of providing comprehensive legal services to clients across various industries.
Steptoe's recent expansion efforts also include the addition of several financial services partners last summer, as part of a 35-person group hired from now-shuttered Stroock & Stroock & Lavan. These strategic hires reflect the firm's proactive approach to meeting the evolving needs of clients and solidifying its position as a leader in the legal industry.
With Scheibe's appointment, Steptoe continues to position itself as a go-to destination for legal expertise in financial technology, blockchain, and regulatory matters, further enhancing its ability to provide innovative solutions and strategic guidance to clients navigating complex legal challenges in the digital age.
