Profile

Jonathan Hightower

Partner

Jonathan Hightower focuses his practice in financial institutions law, including corporate, regulatory and securities work. He represents banks and trust companies throughout the country with a particular focus on the Southeast. Mr. Hightower also represents investment banking firms in connection with public and private capital raises, delivery of fairness opinions, and strategic transactions. Mr. Hightower has been a frequent speaker, writer and press commentator on various banking issues.

Relevant Experience

• Regularly advises banks and their boards of directors on their strategic plans, including organic and acquisition growth plans, sale transactions, strategic mergers and capital raises, as well as on complex regulatory issues.
• Representing financial institutions in matters including:
  • Open and failed bank acquisitions and sales
  • Public and private capital raises
  • Branch transactions
  • Formations of de novo banks
  • Representations of directors and officers
  • Corporate restructurings
  • Bank holding company formations

Practice Areas

• Securities & Corporate Governance
• Banking
• Corporate Finance

Publications

Mr. Hightower frequently publishes articles of interest to the banking industry. He has published articles related to mergers and acquisitions, de novo bank formations, regulatory matters, and corporate governance.

Presentations

Mr. Hightower is a regular speaker regarding legal and strategic issues facing the banking industry. He has presented for state and national trade associations, at nationwide banking conferences, and at legal and accounting continuing education programs. Mr. Hightower has also been involved with a number of merger and acquisition simulation sessions to give bankers an understanding of the M&A process.

Education

• J.D., University of Georgia, cum laude, 2004
• B.B.A., University of West Georgia, summa cum laude, 2001

Awards

• The Best Lawyers in America© 2019
• Chambers USA 2018
• Lexology’s Client Choice Award
• JD Supra Readers’ Choice Awards 2018
• Chambers USA 2017

Professional Affiliations

• Georgia Bankers Association, General Counsel
• Guest Faculty, Georgia Banking School
• Other State and National Bank Trade Associations

Civic and Community Involvement

• Accredited to represent clients before the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs for pro bono cases
• Council of Ministry, Faith Lutheran Church, Sharpsburg, Georgia

Bar Admissions

• Georgia