About Jonathan

Jonathan Levitsky is a partner at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP in New York City, New York. He focuses on communications and internet law, while also practicing in the areas of entertainment and sports law. The firm is well-known for its expertise in complex legal matters, and Levitsky has been with the firm since 2007. His office is situated in the heart of Manhattan, where he serves clients that includes media companies, technology firms, and individual creators. He earned his J.D. from Yale Law School in 1995, where he developed a strong foundation in legal principles that guide his current practice. Prior to that, he completed an M.Phil.

in Politics at the University of Oxford in 1992, which enriched his understanding of the regulatory landscape affecting communications. His undergraduate studies culminated in an A.B. in Public Policy and American Institutions from Brown University in 1986. This gives a comprehensive view of the intersection between law and public policy. Levitsky's career is marked by significant roles that have shaped his legal acumen. He served as a law clerk for Justice John Paul Stevens at the U.S. Supreme Court in 1996, where he gained invaluable insights into high-stakes legal arguments.

Before that, he clerked for Judge Pierre N. Leval in 1995, further honing his skills in legal analysis. His experience also includes serving as a counselor to the Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations in 1999 and being a member of the Policy Planning Staff in 1997. He contributed to the formulation of U.S. foreign policy. Most of his cases involve handling the requirements of communications regulations, intellectual property rights, and media law. He frequently advises clients on compliance with federal and state regulations, as well as on contractual matters related to media and entertainment.

Cases typically progress through initial consultations, negotiations, and, when necessary, litigation in state and federal courts. Levitsky is an active member of both the New York State Bar and the District of Columbia Bar, reflecting his commitment to the legal profession. His extensive background in communications law positions him as a trusted advisor in an ever-evolving industry. He has contributed to various publications and panels discussing the implications of technology on law and policy, further establishing his reputation as a thought leader in his field. He remains dedicated to staying abreast of the latest developments in technology and law, ensuring that his clients receive informed and strategic guidance. Levitsky's combination of academic excellence and practical experience makes him a formidable presence in the legal field of New York City.

Education

Yale Law School

J.D. (1995)

1992

University of Oxford

M.Phil. (1992) | Politics

1990

Brown University

A.B. | Public Policy and American Institutions

1986

Experience

Partner

Debevoise & Plimpton LLP
2007

Counselor to the Permanent Representative

U.S. Mission to the United Nations
1999

has membership of the Policy Planning Staff

U.S. Department of State
1997

Law Clerk, Chambers of Justice John Paul Stevens

U.S. Supreme Court
1996

Law Clerk, Chambers of Judge Pierre N. Leval

U.S. Court of Appeals
1995

Accepted Jurisdictions

New York
District of Columbia

Court Admissions

U.S. Supreme Court U.S. Supreme Court
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York U.S. District Court

Types of Cases Handled

communications law internet law entertainment law sports law

Legal Services Scope

Consultations Negotiations Litigation

Professional Associations

District of Columbia Bar

has membership 1999 - Current

New York State Bar

has membership 1998 - Current