S. Brian Farmer

Partner

Richmond

Advisor to institutional investors and managers in private funds, guiding cross-border acquisitions, regulatory compliance, and alternative investments

“Brian brings his strategic thinking to the entire transaction process. His legal expertise and business acumen are the best I have ever worked with.”

Chambers USA, Corporate/M&A client

“Brian is excellent to work with. He is knowledgeable, practical and personable. We especially like how Brian checks in on us and follows up with matters that he is aware we are considering.”

Chambers USA, Investment Funds: Investor Representation client

“Brian is a star. He has a great sense for industry trends, is a good communicator and bridges both sides to create a well-rounded and understandable legal agreement for clients.”

Chambers USA, Investment Funds: Investor Representation client

“Brian is an extremely smart and very personable lawyer. He keeps us aware of any new trends or laws we should be focusing on and is instrumental in helping us stay compliant.”

Chambers USA, Investment Funds: Investor Representation client

Brian is a partner in the Global Corporate Group and serves as managing partner of Reed Smith’s Richmond office.

His practice focuses on the investment management industry, serving both institutional investors and investment managers. Brian advises universities, hospitals, state and corporate pension plans, fund of funds and family offices regarding their investments in private funds and other alternative investments. His manager-side representation includes hedge and real estate fund managers, outsourced chief investment officers and high-net worth wealth managers.

Recognitions

  • Ranked in Chambers Global for USA Investment Funds: Investor Representation, 2025
  • Selected through peer review for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America© for Venture Capital Law 2007-2025, Leveraged Buyouts and Private Equity Law, 2009-2025, Mergers and Acquisitions Law, 2013-2025, Corporate Law,  2015-2025, Securities / Capital Markets Law 2018-2025, Private Funds / Hedge Funds Law 2024-2025
  • Ranked in Chambers USA for Virginia Southern Corporate/M&A, 2022-2025

Credentials

Education

  • University of Virginia School of Law, 1987, J.D.
  • University of Virginia, 1984, B.A.

Professional admissions & qualifications

  • Virginia
  • New York

News

News
News release
Individual Award

Reed Smith appoints Brian Farmer as new office managing partner in Richmond

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News release

Reed Smith announces new office managing partners and practice group leaders

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Individual Award
News release

20 Reed Smith lawyers recognized by Virginia Business as Legal Elite

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Individual Award
News release

Reed Smith attorneys in Virginia recognized as top practitioners

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Firm Award
Individual Award
News release
Practice Award

20 Reed Smith lawyers endorsed in Virginia Business Legal Elite lists

News
News release

Reed Smith represents Flexpoint Ford on partnership with GoldState Music to pursue music catalog acquisitions

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Individual Award
News release

Five from Reed Smith recognized in DC/Virginia Super Lawyers 2023

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Individual Award
News release

17 Reed Smith lawyers earn recognition among Virginia Business 2022 Legal Elite

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New Arrivals
News release

Reed Smith adds five member investment management team, led by Ed Klees and Brian Farmer, to global corporate practice

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Insights

Events

Events
Webinar

Navigating the complexities of fundraising in the current market and accessing investors in the Middle East

Events
Seminar

Emerging Trends in PE Fundraising: NAV Loans

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