Terraform Labs Defends SEC’s Absurd Objection To Retain Top Law Firm

Terraform Labs disputes SEC objections over legal spending to retain Dentons, asserting the necessity for fair defense.
By Rupam Roy
Updated June 16, 2025
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Highlights

  • Terraform Labs contests SEC objections over legal fee payment to Dentons.
  • SEC alleges fund misappropriation, Terraform Labs rebuts claims of ulterior motives.
  • Terraform Labs seeks court approval for legal expenses amid SEC scrutiny.

Tensions escalate in the legal arena as Terraform Labs challenges the objections raised by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding the payment of legal fees to Dentons U.S. LLC, the company’s special counsel in its Chapter 11 bankruptcy case. A recent filing submitted to a Delaware court on Monday sheds light on the contentious dispute, highlighting Terraform Labs’ assertion that the objections are unfounded and motivated by ulterior motives.

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SEC Objections Prompt Legal Standoff

The clash between Terraform Labs and the SEC stems from the latter’s objection to the company’s decision to retain Dentons U.S. LLC as special counsel, citing concerns over the $166 million payment made to the law firm. SEC alleges that a portion of this payment was transferred to what it describes as fraud or misappropriating funds suggesting an attempt to evade potential liabilities from SEC enforcement actions.

However, Terraform Labs contends that the objections raised by the SEC lack merit and are aimed at undermining the company’s ability to mount a robust defense against the pending litigation and ongoing investigations. In a filing submitted to the Delaware court, Terraform Labs rebuked the SEC’s objections as an example of government overreach, emphasizing the importance of securing adequate legal representation in the face of regulatory scrutiny.

In addition, the company asserts that the SEC’s objections are strategically timed to disrupt its focus ahead of the impending trial scheduled for March 25. Furthermore, Terraform Labs refutes the SEC’s allegations regarding Dentons’ retention, arguing that they are based on erroneous legal interpretations and false claims.

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Terraform Labs’ Defense Strategy Under Scrutiny

The legal standoff intensifies as Terraform Labs seeks court authorization to pay legal expenses crucial for its defense against SEC litigation and compliance with ongoing investigations by the Department of Justice (DOJ). The company emphasizes the necessity of these payments in safeguarding its interests and ensuring a fair legal process.

However, objections from both the SEC and the Office of the United States Trustee (UST) cast doubt on Terraform Labs’ proposed expenditure. While the UST’s objections are milder in comparison, the SEC’s vehement opposition raises concerns over potential hurdles in the company’s legal defense strategy.

Amid the legal wrangling, Terraform Labs remains steadfast in its pursuit of fair treatment and due process, asserting its right to mount a vigorous defense against the regulatory challenges it faces. As the dispute unfolds in the courtroom, the outcome will likely have significant implications for the firm’s future trajectory and the crypto regulation segment governing corporate bankruptcy proceedings.

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Rupam Roy
Rupam is a seasoned professional with three years of experience in the financial market, where he has developed a reputation as a meticulous research analyst and insightful journalist. He thrives on exploring the dynamic nuances of the financial landscape. Currently serving as a sub-editor at Coingape, Rupam's expertise extends beyond conventional boundaries. His role involves breaking stories, analyzing AI-related developments, providing real-time updates on the crypto market, and presenting insightful economic news. Rupam's career is characterized by a deep passion for unraveling the complexities of finance and delivering impactful stories that resonate with a diverse audience.
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