H. Grant Stephenson – Columbus, OH

Authority in Banking and Equipment Finance

H. Grant Stephenson is a senior partner at Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP and a nationally recognized authority in the fields of banking, finance, and equipment leasing. Based in the firm’s Columbus office, Grant has spent his career advising financial institutions, from community banks to global lenders, on the complex regulatory and transactional frameworks that govern their operations. He is particularly renowned for his expertise in Equipment Finance, helping clients structure deals for everything from aircraft and railcars to medical equipment and manufacturing machinery. Named ”Lawyer of the Year” for Equipment Finance Law in Columbus, Grant combines deep legal knowledge with a practical understanding of the financial markets. His counsel is sought after not only for deal-making but also for navigating the intricacies of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and ensuring compliance with evolving federal and state banking regulations.

Strategic Counsel for Financial Institutions

Grant Stephenson’s practice covers the full spectrum of financial law. He regularly assists clients with Commercial Lending, structuring secured and unsecured credit facilities that fuel business growth. In the niche area of Equipment Leasing, he represents lessors and lessees in complex transactions, ensuring that tax implications and ownership rights are clearly defined. He also advises on Bank Mergers and Acquisitions, guiding institutions through the regulatory approval process and the integration of operations. Furthermore, his expertise extends to FinTech and electronic payment systems, helping traditional banks and startups alike adapt to the digital transformation of the financial sector. If you represent a financial institution or a corporation looking to hire a lawyer who understands the capital that powers commerce, Grant Stephenson is the trusted advisor you need.

• Equipment Finance: Structuring leases and loans for heavy machinery, transportation assets, and technology.
• Banking Regulation: Advising on compliance with the Dodd-Frank Act, consumer protection laws, and FDIC regulations.
• Commercial Transactions: Drafting and negotiating complex loan agreements, security instruments, and UCC filings.
• Mergers & Acquisitions: Representing financial institutions in the purchase and sale of branches or entire banks.
• Creditors’ Rights: Assisting lenders in workouts, restructurings, and the recovery of assets.

Recognized Leader in the Field

H. Grant Stephenson’s standing in the legal community is evidenced by his numerous accolades. He has been consistently listed in Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers, and holds the highest AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. His peers recognize him as a ”Lawyer of the Year” for his specific contributions to equipment finance law. Grant operates out of the Huntington Center in downtown Columbus, placing him at the financial and political center of the state. Whether you are closing a multi-million dollar syndication or navigating a regulatory exam, Grant Stephenson provides the seasoned, steady hand required for success.