Firm News

Bates White is pleased to announce the promotion of three individuals to Partner: Saurav Karki, Aparna Sengupta, and Allison Zalazar.

“The firm congratulates our new Partners, whose dedication and sharp insight have elevated our work at every turn,” said Managing Partner Scott Weishaar. “Their tireless commitment and excellent contributions continue to strengthen Bates White’s ability to deliver sophisticated, client-focused results. Their leadership will continue to be integral to our ability to deliver the high-quality work and top-notch services our clients deserve.”

Saurav Karki is an expert in financial analysis, valuation, and the quantification of damages in complex disputes. Over nearly two decades with the firm, he has advised clients on breach‑of‑contract matters, bankruptcy proceedings, employment disputes, regulatory investigations, and transfer pricing. His experience spans industries that include alternative investments, financial institutions, pharmaceuticals, and technology. He has been retained as a damages expert in a wrongful termination case. Other significant case experience includes Purdue Pharma Chapter 11 proceedings, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation v. Bank of America, N.A., and Wells Fargo Bank et al. v. Merrimack Pharmaceuticals, Inc. As a Chartered Financial Analyst charterholder, he applies rigorous valuation training to the financial components of his engagements.

Aparna Sengupta joined the firm 10 years ago. In her time with Bates White, she has conducted due diligence work for mergers and acquisitions, investments, and divestitures. Significant cases in which she has played a part include Federal Trade Commission v. Amazon, Moskowitz v. American Express Company, and In re Rail Freight Fuel Surcharge Antitrust Litigation. She was recently retained as the expert in a price-fixing matter; her work has also included several pro bono cases. Aparna is also skilled in evaluating class certification issues and Chapter 11 bankruptcy timelines. She played a key role in establishing the Data Science Committee at Bates White and has extensive experience in applying and advising on the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Allison Zalazar joined the firm more than 10 years ago, advancing from Consultant to Partner in that time. As co-chair of the firm’s Antitrust and Competition Practice, she has expertise guiding clients through all phases of the merger review process, from providing early-stage risk assessment to advocacy and litigation support. She co-led the team supporting the testifying expert in Federal Trade Commission et al. v. Kroger Company & Albertsons Companies Inc. on behalf of the Federal Trade Commission and worked on behalf of the merging parties in several cases, including United States v. U.S. Sugar, against federal agencies. Her industry expertise spans communications and media, consumer goods, software, and chemicals, among others.