Annie Banks focuses her practice on complex commercial litigation, including in the securities, contract, labor & employment, and data privacy contexts. She also represents public and private companies in white collar and other government enforcement and regulatory matters, securities class action litigation, and internal investigations.
Ms. Banks has experience litigating in federal and state courts, as well as in arbitration, and has been involved in all stages of litigation, including bringing multiple cases to trial. Her experience includes drafting pleadings and motions, handling pre-trial discovery and related disputes, directly communicating with opposing counsel, taking and defending depositions, and preparing for and attending trial, including examining and defending witnesses, arguing evidentiary motions, and creating trial graphics.
During law school, Ms. Banks served as the Chief Managing Editor of the UCLA Law Review and was elected to the Order of the Coif.
Experience
Representing Southern California Edison and Edison International in litigation arising out of the 2017 Thomas Fire.
Secured a complete victory in a two-week arbitration trial for Amazon.com in a suit brought by eBay, alleging contract, fraud, tort, and unfair competition claims.
Represent biotech firm Sorrento Therapeutics as plaintiff in multiple litigations alleging a high profile business partner’s scheme to “catch and kill” Sorrento’s promising cancer drug, Cynviloq.
Defended a large film distribution company in various litigation matters resulting from purchase of bankrupt film studio, including claims of breach of contract, fraud, and discrimination.
Represented a multi-billion dollar oil refining and marketing company in series of contractual disputes with franchisees, including claims involving the Petroleum Marketing Practices Act.
Resolved a securities fraud class action alleging insider trading and control person liability on behalf of a global investment firm on highly favorable terms after obtaining orders shortening the proposed class period, denying a second attempt at class certification, and forcing plaintiffs to withdraw a key expert witness.
Represented an international film financing, production, and distribution company, and its CEO, in appeal against former business partner for defamation, resulting in complete victory in California Court of Appeals.
Represented a major financial planning and asset management company in multiple internal investigations relating to potential violations of federal securities laws and employment laws, including claims of harassment and retaliation.
Defended a notable film school in lawsuit alleging wrongful termination, retaliation, harassment, discrimination, and fraud.
Represented a multi-billion dollar public oil and gas corporation in SEC investigation into potential violations of securities laws involving executive compensation disclosures, including direct communication with and appearing before SEC Division of Enforcement Staff.
Represented a major global television brand in a multi-district class action concerning alleged violations of the Video Privacy Protection Act, unfair business practices, and violations of state consumer protection statutes.
Defended a large fitness center chain in arbitration concerning alleged participation rights in the $1.85 billion stock sale of the company, resulting in complete defense award on claims of liability and over $1 million in attorneys’ fees and costs.
Represented an investment adviser in SEC investigation into potential insider trading.
Represented a start-up entertainment technology company, and multiple key executives, in SEC investigation into potential offering fraud and broker-dealer activity, including direct communication with and appearing before SEC Division of Enforcement Staff.
Successfully first-chaired jury trial involving pro bono client’s unlawful detainer proceedings, resulting in complete verdict for defendant.
Recognitions
- Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch