Alston & Bird announced today that Cynthia Cole has joined its Technology & Privacy Group as a partner in the firm’s Silicon Valley office, advancing the firm’s growth in technology transactions, data privacy, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity throughout California and across the firm’s 13 offices.
Cynthia has decades of experience advising companies on complex commercial, digital, and cross-border initiatives, informed by her prior roles as a chief executive and general counsel. She helps organizations navigate technology-driven business strategies while addressing legal, operational, and regulatory considerations.
“Expanding our privacy, AI, and technology presence in the Bay Area and other key markets in the United States and Europe remains an important priority for Alston & Bird,” said partner David Keating, who leads the firm’s Technology & Privacy Group. “Cynthia’s experience and reputation as a pioneer in cutting-edge aspects of the law, including sophisticated transactions and regulatory matters, adds meaningfully to our growing platform.”
Cynthia advises clients across the technology, life sciences, industrial, energy, media, and consumer sectors on structuring and negotiating technology transactions, intellectual property arrangements, data-driven collaborations, and cloud and platform agreements. Her work frequently involves emerging and data-intensive technologies, including AI, with a focus on governance, contracting, and deployment considerations.
“As AI becomes more deeply integrated into core business operations, clients are looking for practical guidance that address legal, technical, and operational issues,” said Rebecca Valentino, partner-in-charge of Alston & Bird’s Silicon Valley office. “Cynthia’s experience advising companies on AI, data, and complex technology matters aligns with what we’re seeing in the market.”
Cynthia counsels executive teams and boards of directors on global privacy and cybersecurity obligations, including compliance with the GDPR, CCPA, and evolving national and international AI and data governance frameworks. In addition, she assists clients in preparing for and responding to cybersecurity incidents, coordinating forensic investigations, multijurisdictional notification requirements, and regulatory engagement.
“I was drawn to Alston & Bird by the exceptional caliber of the firm’s technology and privacy attorneys, as well as the breadth of collaboration across practices and offices,” said Cynthia. “There is an incredible opportunity to build on the firm’s strong base in California by deploying innovative technologies and strategies to rapidly evolving regulatory and operational challenges.”
Alston & Bird advises clients on technology-driven transactions involving intellectual property, data, and emerging technologies. The firm was among the early adopters of a transaction-oriented technology practice, bringing together lawyers with experience across intellectual property, privacy, and regulatory matters. Collaborating with clients across the technology, media and entertainment, health care, and life sciences industries, the team continues to adapt as new technologies and commercial arrangements evolve.