Cortez focuses his practice on middle market private equity and M&A transactions, representing sponsors, investors, strategic acquirers and management teams in connection with mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures and general corporate matters across a wide range of industries.
In addition to his private equity and M&A practice, Cortez advises athletes, creators, media companies and investors in the entertainment, media and sports industries in connection with commercial partnerships and other business ventures. As a former Division I college athlete, he brings a practical perspective to the strategic and reputational considerations that shape deals in these sectors.
Prior to joining Reed Smith, Cortez was a corporate associate at a prominent New York-based international law firm where he advised public and private companies on high-value M&A and capital market transactions across the pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, gaming and telecommunications industries. Earlier in his career, he was an M&A tax associate at two Big Four public accounting firms, where he focused on transaction structuring and tax due diligence for middle market private equity deals. This foundation informs Cortez’s commercially grounded perspective and equips him with a thoughtful, solutions-oriented approach to advising clients through complex transactions.
Cortez began his professional career as a high school teacher and Teach For America corps member, an experience that continues to shape his community-driven approach to client service and collaboration. He remains deeply engaged in pro bono work supporting emerging entrepreneurs and small business owners.
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