ArentFox Schiff announced the addition of partner Scott B. Lepene to its Financial Restructuring & Bankruptcy practice in the firm’s New York office. Lepene has nearly two decades of experience handling matters involving insolvency and restructuring, business reorganization litigation, and distressed asset sales.

“With persistently high interest rates and the looming presidential election and other factors creating economic uncertainty, we’re likely to continue to see a rise in corporate bankruptcies and financial restructurings,” said Aram Ordubegian, partner and Bankruptcy & Financial Restructuring practice leader.

“Scott’s depth of experience and proven track record as a trusted advisor will further our ability to provide practical and creative solutions and implement strategies that support the business goals of our clients.”

Lepene represents secured and unsecured creditors, as well as debtors, in Chapter 11 proceedings and out-of-court workouts. Recognized as an industry leader in assignments for the benefit of creditors transactions, Lepene regularly represents assignees of assets in these transactions that provide an alternative to a liquidation.

Lepene also represents real estate investment firms, mid-cap private equity firms, and other investors in the purchase of assets in distressed asset transactions. He serves clients across a broad range of industries, including financial services, banking, manufacturing, automotive, technology, restaurants, retail, and real estate.

Lepene joins ArentFox Schiff from Thompson Hine, where he was co-chair of the firm’s Distressed M&A Investing group. Outside of his legal practice, Scott serves as a member of the Cleveland chapter of the American Jewish Committee and the Milestones Autism Resources Board of Directors. He is licensed to practice in New York and Ohio.