Steptoe announced that restructuring and bankruptcy attorney Kenneth P. Kansa has joined the firm’s Chicago office as a partner in its Insolvency, Restructuring and Transactions practice. Kansa joins the firm from Barnes & Thornburg LLP and brings more than 25 years of experience advising clients on financial distress, restructurings, bankruptcies, and complex insolvency matters.
Kansa’s practice focuses on helping businesses navigate both in-court and out-of-court restructurings, addressing immediate financial challenges while positioning organizations for long-term stability and growth. He has significant experience negotiating and implementing Chapter 11 reorganizations, structuring out-of-court debt solutions, and executing strategic transactions designed to resolve legacy and other liabilities.
In addition to representing companies, Kansa has advised asset purchasers, financing providers, and other stakeholders involved in restructurings globally. His practice also includes counseling both debtors and creditors on bankruptcy-related real estate, tax, and corporate governance matters.
The addition of Kansa is part of Steptoe’s broader strategy to strengthen its Chicago office and expand key practice areas. His arrival follows several recent partner additions across litigation, financial regulatory and investigations, data privacy, and intellectual property.
Kansa earned his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law, an M.A. from Cleveland State University, and a B.A. from George Washington University.
KEY QUOTES:
“Ken’s arrival reflects our deliberate strategy to deepen our capabilities in Chicago and align our platform with the evolving needs of clients facing complex financial challenges. We are investing in areas where we see sustained demand for sophisticated, business-oriented counsel at critical moments.”
Rachel Cannon, Managing Partner, Chicago Office, Steptoe LLP
“I was drawn to Steptoe’s strong reputation for handling sophisticated matters and the opportunity to work alongside a talented, multidisciplinary team. I’m excited to continue working with my friend and former colleague Trace Schmeltz and to support clients on their most important issues.”
Kenneth P. Kansa, Partner, Insolvency, Restructuring and Transactions Practice, Steptoe LLP
