Overview

Brett is chair of the firm’s Corporate Department. Brett counsels public and private companies of all sizes through merger, acquisition, divestiture, financing and other corporate and securities transactions, facilitating growth strategies and operational objectives for clients around the world. As chair of the firm’s Energy, Biotech and Emerging Business practice groups, Brett counsels clients regarding ongoing securities compliance and general corporate and contracting matters.

Brett advises domestic and foreign clients in connection with acquisition, divestiture transactions, general business matters, entity formation and structuring, regulatory issues and major projects, as well as international debt, equity and complex financing transactions. He has worked as lead counsel for global corporate clients in a wide range of industries, including energy and natural resources, manufacturing, telecommunications, finance, and food and beverage. His experience includes advising Fortune 100 companies and private equity groups in the acquisition, divestment and relocation of assets, Brett also advises on compensation issues and agreements, including incentive plans, to help companies attract and retain executive talent.

A resourceful facilitator for emerging businesses, Brett helps entrepreneurs and emerging businesses with the multitude of formation, growth and business operational issues confronting growing companies, such as capitalization, fundraising, third-party vendor relationships, contractual agreement review, securities law and transaction due diligence. Assisting clients through all stages, Brett connects entrepreneurs and emerging businesses with proven industry leaders to help establish their business profile, advises as companies expand and works to ensure owners exit on their own terms.

Brett counsels clients in the energy industry on corporate and financing issues related to the operation of facilities and systems for natural resource product transportation, and the development, production, refinement, processing and transportation of energy resources. He assists power generation companies with operations, helping them acquire assets and complete financing transactions in multiple locations. Brett serves as co-editor of the firm's Energy Law Report blog.

Education

  • George Washington University Law School  (J.D., 2001)
  • The Ohio State University  (B.S., 1997)

Bar Admissions

  • Ohio

Professional Associations

  • Ohio State Bar Association, Corporate Law Committee, Past Secretary

Honors & Awards

  • The Best Lawyers in America®
  • The Best Lawyers in America® “Lawyer of the Year,” Business Organizations (including LLCs and Partnerships), Columbus, Ohio, 2023
  • Ohio Super Lawyers, Rising Stars Edition

Community

  • BalletMet Columbus, Board of Trustees
  • Columbus Council on World Affairs, Board of Trustees
  • Ohio Historical Society, Board Member
  • Leadership Columbus, Class of 2010