About
Cristine Pirro Schwarzman is a leading restructuring partner at Ropes & Gray in New York. Known for strategic skills and strong advocacy, she guides major debtors, distressed borrowers, and investors, including private equity sponsors, through complex out-of-court restructurings and Chapter 11 cases.
Her leadership in the field is reflected in numerous accolades, including Law360’s “Top Bankruptcy Attorneys Under 40” and recognition by the American Bankruptcy Institute and Global Restructuring Review as a “40 Under 40” honoree. Women in Business Law named her “Insolvency and Restructuring Lawyer of the Year,” while the Global M&A Network and other top organizations have praised her dealmaking skills. Chambers USA highlights her adept handling of Chapter 11 cases and out-of-court workouts, reinforcing her status as a trusted advisor in financial restructuring.
Cristine has advised clients across healthcare, pharmaceuticals, retail, technology, and energy. Key matters include Brown University Health’s acquisition of two hospitals during the Steward Health Care System bankruptcy, Amylyx Pharmaceuticals’ purchase of Eiger BioPharmaceuticals’ avexitide assets, and Shoes for Crews’ Chapter 11 proceedings. Her work spans high-profile restructurings such as the $1.4 billion Chapter 11 of 24 Hour Fitness, the recapitalization of Centric Brands, and the $2.9 billion sale of Provention Bio, Inc. to Sanofi.
Before joining Ropes & Gray, she clerked for Chief Judge Arthur Gonzalez of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, gaining invaluable judicial insights. Her credentials include a J.D. from the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, a Certificate in Business Economics from The Wharton School, and a B.A. cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania.
Cristine Pirro Schwarzman is known for her commitment to excellence, confidentiality, and client-focused solutions. Her ability to craft innovative restructuring strategies and secure favorable outcomes has reinforced her reputation as a trusted advocate in the restructuring landscape.
Law Office Affiliations
- Partner, Ropes & Gray LLP
- Member, American Bankruptcy Institute
- Member, International Women in Restructuring Confederation
- Member, Local Bankruptcy Rules Committee for the Southern District of New York
- Member, Million Dollar Advocates Forum
Licensed State
- New York
Education
- University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School
Juris Doctor (JD) - The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
Certificate in Business Economics - University of Pennsylvania
BA with Cum Laude
Awards & Badges



- Antitrust and trade law
- Chapter 11 bankruptcy
- Federal regulation
- Franchising
- Health care
- Litigation
- Mergers and acquisitions