Debevoise & Plimpton LLP Elevates Six Counsel to New Roles

In a significant announcement on June 30, 2026, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP revealed the elevation of six talented attorneys to the role of counsel, effective July 1. This strategic move not only showcases the firm's dedication to fostering talent but also enhances its capabilities in various legal sectors. The newly appointed counsels, each specializing in distinct areas, signify a robust expansion of the firm's expertise in intricate legal landscapes.

Profiles of the Newly Appointed Counsel

Michael Godbe

Based in the New York office, Michael Godbe is a key member of the Restructuring Group and the Liability Management Special Situations team. His legal proficiency encompasses complex restructuring matters, advising debtors, investors, and stakeholders on both in- and out-of-court reorganizations, along with distressed asset transactions. An alumnus of Columbia Law School, Godbe graduated in 2017 and has earned recognitions such as a James Kent scholar and a Harlan Fiske Stone scholar.

Molly Maass

Molly Maass, also situated in New York, contributes her skills as part of the Commercial Litigation Group. She specializes in representing sponsors, directors, and financial advisors engaged in Chapter 11 proceedings. Her litigation experience is amplified by her clerkship for the Hon. Raymond J. Dearie at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York from 2020 to 2021. Maass holds her J.D. from New York University School of Law and has an impressive academic background, graduating magna cum laude from Northwestern University in 2012.

Eric Olmesdahl

From the London office, Eric Olmesdahl is a member of the Investment Management Group, offering guidance to private fund sponsors concerning a wide array of regulatory issues. His legal foundation was built upon completing the First State Examination at Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn in 2009. Additionally, Olmesdahl is a qualified solicitor in England & Wales and holds admission to the German Bar, showcasing his international legal qualifications.

Justin Rassi

Justin Rassi practices in the New York office within the International Dispute Resolution Group. His expertise lies in high-stakes international arbitration and cross-border commercial litigation focusing on advocacy in multifaceted disputes. Prior to his tenure at Debevoise, Rassi clerked for the Hon. Justice V.M. Bell AC at the High Court of Australia. He holds an LL.M. from New York University School of Law and is admitted to practice in New York and New South Wales, evidencing his robust cross-jurisdictional prowess.

Adam Saunders

Adam Saunders, working from the New York office, is a member of both the Commercial Litigation and Antitrust Groups. His focus is on intricate commercial litigation, including examinations of antitrust, contractual disputes, and trade secret litigation. Saunders achieved his J.D. summa cum laude from Rutgers School of Law in Newark in 2017, demonstrating his commitment to academic excellence.

Amy Zimmerman

Lastly, Amy Zimmerman, who is also based in New York, contributes her expertise within the Commercial Litigation Group. Her practice incorporates securities disputes, consumer class actions, and M&A litigation. Before joining Debevoise, Zimmerman served as a law clerk for the Hon. Gerard E. Lynch of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. She earned her J.D. magna cum laude from New York University School of Law in 2017.

Conclusion

These prominent promotions at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP highlight the firm's continuous growth and commitment to excellence in legal services. With these knowledgeable counsels now part of the team, the firm is poised to tackle new challenges and further enhance its portfolio in both local and international law practices. Debevoise remains steadfast in its mission to provide top-tier legal representation and innovative solutions tailored to its diverse clientele.