Taylor Wessing LLP > Cambridge, England > Firm Profile

Taylor Wessing LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Biotechnology Tier 1

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1

Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £250m) Tier 1

Taylor Wessing LLP‘s ‘great sector knowledge‘ and ability to ‘deal with complex issues without fuss‘ makes them a key choice for a range of sponsors and management teams. Steered by Edward Waldron, who assumed leadership of the group in May 2023, the practice handles a mix of investment deals, growth company-focused buyouts, and mid-market sale processes – frequently with a cross-border aspect. ‘Consistent, thoughtful, and composed‘, Emma Danks is a highly experienced transactional adviser noted for her particular expertise in pharma-driven deals. Jonny Bethell is similarly praised for the depth of his sponsor relationships, having become a key contact for numerous PE houses. Other names to note include James Goold, a seasoned PE and M&A partner whose recent engagements include cross-border divestitures in the professional services and leisure sectors.

Corporate and commercial > Venture capital Tier 1

Led by Angus Miln, the 'very experienced' team at Taylor Wessing LLP provides 'high-quality' advice to a relatively balanced mix of investees and investors seeking or providing finance from an early stage through to an exit strategy. As well as transactional work, the firm is also 'very well-plugged into the venture capital ecosystem', with both Miln and the 'first-class' Howard Palmer continuing to advise the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA) on the drafting of standard documentation to facilitate early-stage venture capital investment. As well as having deep expertise within the tech sector, the firm has a strong track record advising on life sciences/healthcare mandates, an area that Cambridge-based partner Ross McNaughton is particularly adept and can add value to clients engaged in matters with a transatlantic edge by dint of his previous experience working out of San Francisco. Indeed, the UK team as a whole regularly works in a cross-office capacity alongside colleagues spread across Europe, the Middle East and Asia, with the 'very impressive and commercial' Josef Fuss noted, in particular for his 'excellent VC connections and with Israeli investors'. Alexandra Richardson excels in advising clients in IP-rich sectors including software, fintech, digital media and digital health companies, both on the investor and investee front. All named practitioners are based in London, unless otherwise indicated.

Industry focus > Hospitality and leisure Tier 1

Praised for its ‘excellent hotel sector knowledge’, the team of lawyers at Taylor Wessing LLP is highly regarded for advising on both the buy-side and sell-side for large single asset and portfolio M&A hotel transactions. The team is equally strong in assisting with hotel franchise and management agreements and hotel developments. The group is headed up by Richard Bursby, ‘a leader in the industry,’ whose expertise lies in assisting HNWIs, families and entrepreneurs with international transactions, branded residential projects, hotel management and franchise agreements, and traveltech work. Mark Rajbenbach and Victoria Butcher are active in the commercial property and real estate space, and regularly operate in the hotels, leisure and logistics industries, advising on hotel portfolio sales and purchases, and hotel leases and management agreements. Michael Helfgott is instructed by national and international clients, ranging from property developers and financial institutions, to entrepreneurs and tourist attractions.

Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1

At Taylor Wessing LLP, head of department, Emma Jordan ‘blends excellent strategic instincts and big-picture thinking with an impressive grasp of forensic detail’.  The practice is ‘one of the giants in this area’ and ‘consists of individuals with market-leading expertise and experience’.  Jordan is both an English barrister and a Jersey Advocate. Kirstie McGuigan is sought after for her work that spans both contentious and advisory matters. Caroline Tayler has a strong reputation in the market for her trusts advice arising from divorce proceedings. The group is also recognised for its civil fraud work, its experience in asset tracing, and for its recovery advice in the context of offshore trusts and structures. In addition,  the team has carved out considerable expertise in advising on insolvent trusts, and has been building its specialism in trusts arbitrations. This team is highly recommended for its work on international private wealth disputes, and frequently deals with high-value issues of capacity.

Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 1

Nick Warr heads a ‘professional, personable and knowledgeable’ team at Taylor Wessing LLP.  Warr has a strong client following, advising single and multi-family offices in numerous jurisdictions, investment bankers, hedge fund managers and private equity principals. In addition, he acts as trustee for some high-profile families and acts as a strategic adviser to a number of billionaire families. Simon Phelps is recommended for his work on complex estate planning, capital and income taxation, in addition to offshore and onshore trusts. Phelps has an excellent reputation in the Asian market. Sanjvee Shah has considerable experience in advising clients on complex cross-border tax, succession and estate planning matters. Kirstie McGuigan is also highly regarded for her handling of a broad range of contentious and non-contentious matters. Also recommended is Damian Bloom, who specialises in UK and international tax and estate planning matters. Bloom has a particular focus on long-term planning for UK and non-UK domiciled individuals. Ben Lister has recently been promoted to the partnership.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 1

Taylor Wessing LLP’s comprehensive IP service includes assisting clients with the full spectrum of brand protection and enforcement issues alongside copyright disputes and transactions. The practice is prominent across creative industries, such as music, broadcasting and social media, with notable strengths in technology. Co-lead Niri Shan is particularly experienced in the litigation sphere, operating across all aspects of soft IP, while fellow co-lead Mark Owen is active in the media, entertainment and technology sectors. Jason Rawkins advises on both contentious and non-contentious IP issues related to brands, designs, and domain names, and Adam Rendle undertakes various copyright issues, covering a wide variety of creative and tech sectors. Roland Mallinson counts major international brand and technology owners in his client roster.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Theatre, publishing and other media Tier 1

Reflective of practice head Adam Rendle‘s capabilities in the publishing sector, Taylor Wessing LLP is a regular advisor on publishing agreements, IP rights and content-related disputes. Seasoned litigator Niri Shanmuganathan is noted for his expertise in defamation, contempt and privacy matters; he provides pre-publication and post-publication advice in matters involving high-profile newspapers and political campaigns. Another name to note is senior counsel Timothy Pinto for his advice to international publishers dealing with media, IP and advertising law issues.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Cambridge Tier 2

Taylor Wessing LLP is noted as having ‘a strong corporate presence in the Cambridge ecosystem’. Practice co-heads are IP specialist Adrian Toutoungi and Ross McNaughton, who is regarded as ‘a go-to adviser on venture capital transactions‘. The team counts numerous life sciences companies amongst its clients, including Shield Therapeutics plc, Cambridge Epigenetix and Fusion Antibodies. The firm recently acted for desktop bioprinting company Nuclera on its $58m series B financing.

Corporate and commercial > M&A: Lower Mid-Market Deals, £100m-£750m Tier 2

The team at Taylor Wessing LLP is particularly noted for its calibre of M&A deals, working with leading clients in the technology, life sciences and healthcare sectors. Recent highlights have involved high value and industry leading, mergers and acquisitions, divestments, sales, exits and takeovers. The team is jointly led by several partners: the head of the private equity team, Emma Danks, who offers experience in cross-border M&A transactions for US acquirers, as well as healthcare, pharmaceutical and life sciences companies; Russell Holden, who acts on a range of transactions and has a strong network in and understanding of the Indian market; Angus Miln, who specialises in M&A, venture capital and private equity transactions; and Michael Goldberg, who concentrates on large transactions in the real estate sector. Howard Palmer advises technology companies through the lifecycle from venture financing to exits via M&A, while Mark Barron acts for both technology and life sciences clients seeking international expansion and M&A opportunities. Tandeep Minhas manages the corporate finance and M&A activity of a range of clients including entrepreneurs and startups to blue chip corporates. Veteran M&A and equity capital markets practitioners Andrew Edge offers significant experience in IPOs, public and private M&A, joint ventures and financing rounds. A notable addition to the team is Dublin-based corporate finance specialist Patrick Quinlan, who joined in December 2022 from Maples Group.

Industry focus > Life sciences and healthcare Tier 2

The team at Taylor Wessing LLP houses a team which exhibits broad expertise spanning venture capital transactions within the biotech space, medical device certifications, and data privacy issues. Practice head Alison Dennis utilises her broad expertise in IP and contractual matters to advise medium to large medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturers on commercialisation issues. Ross McNaughton handles the biotech side of the practice, predominantly assisting clients with issues surrounding international expansion and capital raising. With longstanding experience in biologics and small-molecule therapeutics, Adrian Toutoungi is particularly adept at advising clients on collaboration agreements, while Colin McCall assists clients with licensing agreements and R&D projects. Tasmina Goraya primarily focuses on arbitrations and regulatory disputes, in addition to clinical trial agreements.

Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 2

Taylor Wessing LLP’s cross-practice consumer and retail group acts for food and beverage, fashion and luxury, and e-commerce sector clients, handling the full spectrum of corporate, employment, and IP matters. The team also advises on industry-specific issues, including licensing and franchising matters, as well as supply chain management. Ian Moore benefits from previous industry experience as the managing director of a sportswear brand, and advises on brand establishment, supply and sales channels, and growth strategies for e-commerce brands. Edward Story has a broad focus which spans corporate real estate, investment, and M&A work, while Jason Rawkins is the key name for trade mark, and design rights advice for luxury and fashion brands; senior counsel Xuyang Zhu is also recommended for her IP expertise. Moore, Story and Rawkins jointly lead the practice.

Industry focus > TMT Tier 2

Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 2

Taylor Wessing LLP is known as the ‘market leader for high value audit negligence disputes’, with an accounting and auditing professional negligence team which is described as ‘unsurpassed’ in its area. Practice head Andrew Howell, ‘always capable and assured in his analysis and is always available to give his invaluable input’, specialises in claims and regulatory investigations. Stuart Broom provides ‘invaluable legal advice’ to a client list which includes some of the world's largest professional service firms. Senior associate Stephanie High, described as ‘extremely hard-working and perceptive’, specialises in professional services disputes and investigations.

Real estate > Commercial property: development Tier 2

The ‘extremely proactive and hard-working’ team at Taylor Wessing LLP works in conjunction with the firm’s corporate, finance, and tax teams to support clients on cross-border development and investment matters. Head of the real estate department Paul Lawrence regularly acts for international investors in the private wealth arena, while Matthew Swainston caters to joint ventures, as well as landlord and tenant transactions. Paul Leamy is well-versed in mixed-use retail and leisure schemes and Adam Marks collaborates with the firm's private wealth department to advise ultra high-net-worth families. Mark Rajenbach is knowledgeable of lease agreements, management-back transactions and portfolio sales and purchases in the hotel, leisure, and logistics sectors. Leona Ahmed joined the team from Addleshaw Goddard in May 2023 and is a key contact for Asian and Middle Eastern clients looking to invest in the UK.

Real estate > Commercial property: investment Tier 2

The ‘extremely proactive and hard-working’ team at Taylor Wessing LLP works in conjunction with the firm’s corporate, finance, and tax teams to support clients on cross-border development and investment matters. Head of the real estate department Paul Lawrence regularly acts for international investors in the private wealth arena, while Matthew Swainston caters to joint ventures, as well as landlord and tenant transactions. Paul Leamy is well-versed in mixed-use retail and leisure schemes and Adam Marks collaborates with the firm's private wealth department to advise ultra high-net-worth families. Mark Rajenbach is knowledgeable of lease agreements, management-back transactions and portfolio sales and purchases in the hotel, leisure, and logistics sectors. Leona Ahmed joined the team from Addleshaw Goddard in May 2023 and is a key contact for Asian and Middle Eastern clients looking to invest in the UK.

Real estate > Residential property Tier 2

Elaine Dobson heads the team at Taylor Wessing LLP, which has an excellent client base of very wealthy individuals and families. Other key clients include A-list celebrities, high-profile sports personalities and founders of household names in the technology sector. The agile team receives a steady flow of work on iconic, luxury and high-value sites throughout the country. In addition, it has considerable expertise in complex enfranchisement work through Dobson and Rachel George. The group frequently advises UHNW clients on freehold, lease extensions and collective enfranchisement claims for substantial blocks within central London. The practice can also draw on the expertise of its international private wealth team. It also garners praise for its rural property expertise.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: patents (contentious and non-contentious) Tier 2

Commended as an ‘excellent team’, Taylor Wessing LLP’s key areas of expertise encompasses the life sciences and hi-tech industries, regularly advising clients on a variety of contentious and non-contentious matters. The team is led by Nigel Stoate, who is noted for his patent litigation expertise, especially that which involves multiple jurisdictions across Europe. Patent litigation specialists Matthew Royle and Simon Cohen both possess considerable experience in the life sciences sector, while Alison Dennis is known for her ability to handle regulatory and transactional life sciences issues. Adrian Toutongi routinely assists clients with the negotiation and drafting of technology licence agreements, and Christopher Thornham’s capabilities include licensing strategies such as FRAND licence disputes. Another notable name in the practice is Tasmina Goraya, who is well-versed in a diverse array of contentious and non-contentious matters, from pharma regulatory issues to specialist agreements.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2

Taylor Wessing LLP acts for high-profile investors, from early stage funds and international venture capital firms to corporate investors and sovereign wealth funds. The practice supports clients through the full lifecycle of matters across both advisory and contentious issues. Josef Fuss, who acts for investors, companies and entrepreneurs on joint venture and M&A mandates, jointly leads the team alongside Mark Owen, who handles trade mark, copyright and other IP issues. Graham Hann focuses on commercial and IT matters in the telecoms sector, and is another key contact in the group.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Digital content & social Tier 2

Much of Taylor Wessing LLP's digital content and social media work sits within the firm's notable copyright practice, where the team is a regular advisor to platform-based tech companies and content owners, as well as social networks and e-commerce providers. Practice head Adam Rendle supports companies through the entire lifecycle of their media assets, from corporate transactions and content licensing to high-profile litigation; he is also well-equipped to advise on advertising regulation and sponsorship agreements. Senior associate Oz Watson and senior counsel Xuyang Zhu are also recommended.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Video games Tier 2

Taylor Wessing LLP's comprehensive client roster includes start-ups, investment funds and investors, big tech platforms, gaming developers and publishers. Commercial, data and IT specialist Graham Hann co-chairs the gaming and esports practice with Robert Fenner, a transactional expert with experience advising Chinese and Asian companies looking to expand on a global scale. Other recommended individuals include skilled IP advisor Mark Owen, and Adam Rendle, who guides companies through the entire lifecycle of their media assets.

Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil Tier 3

Bolstered by a strong international network, Taylor Wessing LLP is notable for its industry expertise in technology, media and telecoms, as well as its work in high-profile insolvency cases. Cryptocurrency and blockchain disputes are a growing area of significance, with the firm utilising its substantial tech client base to advise leading cryptocurrency lenders. The practice is co-led by Andrew Howell, a specialist in claims and regulatory investigations and David De Ferrars, known for his outstanding negotiation skills and multi-jurisdictional work. Nick Moser advises on contentious insolvency and fraud claims, with a particular focus on pension issues, and Julian Randall impresses with his considerable experience in claims and regulatory matters within the accounting sector.

Employment > Employee share schemes Tier 3

Trusted by clients ranging from early-stage companies to multinational corporations, Taylor Wessing LLP houses broad practice, spanning hirings and firings, global share plan design and compliance reviews. The team is also active on transactional mandates such as fundraisings and acquisitions, frequently assisting employee benefit trusts. Team head Ann Casey is frequently sought out by technology and life science start-ups. Claire Matthews, who joined from the Linklaters’ Singapore office in July 2022, is an authority on executive renumeration. Katie Lewis and Karen Bail  further contribute to the incentives expertise at the firm.

Employment > Employers Tier 3

Taylor Wessing LLP specialises in employment work for tech, fintech and life sciences companies, particularly those based in the USA. Practice head Paul Callaghan is recommended for his specialism in advising North American companies operating in Europe. Also integral to the team is HR and internal matters expert Helen Farr. Further key names at the practice include Sean Nesbitt, Joe Aiston and Roxane Davey.

Employment > Pensions: dispute resolution Tier 3

The pensions litigation team at Taylor Wessing LLP is headed by the ‘clever' and ‘totally committed' Mark Smith, who is especially experienced in the charities, financial services, media, transport, and logistics sectors. The practice is recommended for its work in pensions fraud cases, and also offers its clients assistance in cases of restructurings, as well as in matters brought by regulatory bodies, and rectification issues. Anna Taylor joined the team in January 2022 from rival Linklaters LLP, bringing extensive experience in advising companies and trustees on a breadth of pensions issues.

Insurance > Product liability: defendant Tier 3

The product liability and safety experts at Taylor Wessing LLP advise companies on product recalls, corrective action, product compliance, regulatory investigations and supply chain disputes. The firm operates in a range of sectors including tech, manufacturing, life sciences and automotives. Practice head Katie Chandler is experienced in handling coronial inquest proceedings and regulatory investigations. Tasmina Goraya works on regulatory and compliance issues relating to pharma and medical devices.

Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 3

The ‘extremely proactive and hard-working’ team at Taylor Wessing LLP works in conjunction with the firm’s corporate, finance, and tax teams to support clients on cross-border development and investment matters. Head of the real estate department Paul Lawrence regularly acts for international investors in the private wealth arena, while Matthew Swainston caters to joint ventures, as well as landlord and tenant transactions. Paul Leamy is well-versed in mixed-use retail and leisure schemes and Adam Marks collaborates with the firm's private wealth department to advise ultra high-net-worth families. Mark Rajenbach is knowledgeable of lease agreements, management-back transactions and portfolio sales and purchases in the hotel, leisure, and logistics sectors. Leona Ahmed joined the team from Addleshaw Goddard in May 2023 and is a key contact for Asian and Middle Eastern clients looking to invest in the UK.

Real estate > Construction: non-contentious Tier 3

Taylor Wessing LLP advises on complex, high-value matters for a diverse clientele including contractors, lenders, and management companies. The team is headed by Matthew Jones, who provides guidance on procurement, drafting, and negotiation of building and engineering contracts, as well as related construction agreements. David Quinlan offers expertise to clients involved in all facets of the procurement process, including contracting authorities, sponsors, and construction contractors. Senior associate Stephanie O’Hare, with her cross-sector experience in housing and leisure, advises on matters ranging from building contracts and pre-construction agreements to security documents and third-party rights.

Real estate > Property finance Tier 3

Taylor Wessing LLP‘s group acts on senior, mezzanine and preferred equity lending across the spectrum of real estate assets. Martin Yells is a well-known advisor in debt funding for private equity sponsor backed borrowers and asset backed financings. Heather Buttle continues to be involved in development transactions within the care home, student accommodation and the professional rented sectors. Debt financing partner Jonathan Marks, and Edward Manser, are other key figures.

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 3

Taylor Wessing LLP advises a number of major institutional, residential and private clients on a broad-range of matters including rights of light, dilapidation, service charges and injunctions. Team head and 'star partner' Saleem Fazal splits his time between London and Liverpool, advising clients on rent reviews, vacant possession strategy and dilapidations. The ‘practical and reliable’ Stephen Burke specialises in lease renewals, and recovery of rent and break notices, whilst the 'top-notch' Alicia Convery handles lease renewals and rights of light issues.

Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity Tier 3

Now jointly led by Victoria Hordern and Chris Jeffery, Taylor Wessing LLP’s data and cyber practice has notable expertise in the digital health, technology, and financial services sectors. The firm’s strong tech focus means the group is well-placed to advise on emerging and novel technology issues, including AI, blockchain, and the privacy implications of facial recognition technology and biometric data. Hodern advises on all aspects of EU and UK data protection and privacy compliance, while Jeffery advises US and global tech clients looking to expand into European markets.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech Tier 3

Taylor Wessing LLP is sought out by banks, financial service providers, investors and emerging fintech companies on investments, fundraisings, M&A, litigation and regulatory work.  The practice is jointly headed up by four partners: Graham Hann is a go-to lawyer for transformational projects concerning IT and data; venture capital specialist Angus Miln has a strong book of work for emerging and high-growth technology companies; Charlotte Hill is an expert in financial services regulation, and Howard Palmer is noted for his work with fintech companies on venture capital investments. Other key figures include Clare Reynolds, who has in-depth knowledge of operational resilience and cloud computing.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Advertising & marketing Tier 3

Taylor Wessing LLP 's team handles a broad range of matters for clients in the technology sector, including investigations, copy clearance, and green claims. Practice head Adam Rendle has a great deal of experience in issues relating to media assets, content licensing, and advertising regulations. Senior associates Simon Jupp and Oz Watson are known for representing a number of brands in matters concerning sponsorship and influencer agreements; in addition to assisting technology businesses and start ups with the appointment of advertising agencies and IP rights.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Reputation management Tier 3

The IP and media team at Taylor Wessing LLP acts for a range of prominent clients across the technology, media, life sciences and private wealth sectors. The cross-departmental group handles reputation management issues surrounding defamation, online harassment, unlawful data processing and privacy. Practice head Niri Shanmuganathan is experienced acting for both claimants and defendants, with much of his work concerning the prevention of intrusive or false stories being published in the media. Michael Yates is an information litigator who is typically instructed by individuals and companies on defamation, privacy, data protection and breach of confidence matters.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 4

Taylor Wessing LLP‘s growing team advises on tax elements of a broad range of high value and cross-border transactions, and has notable sector expertise in the technology and life sciences, private wealth, and real estate industries. Team lead Graham Samuel-Gibbon advises multinational clients on both transactional and non-transactional tax, and has particular strength in tax issues related to IP rights. Peter Jackson is a key contact for the real estate and private wealth sectors, while Liz Wilson additionally covers private equity and technology, media, and communications. James Ross advises on M&A transactions and corporate restructurings.

Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious Tier 4

Taylor Wessing LLP is typically instructed by major banks to represent their senior executives in market and product investigations, often with transatlantic elements, including around whistleblowing, trading and benchmarking. The firm has lately also been developing a significant focus on the cryptocurrency space, and is increasingly active on mandates which combine those areas of focus. Charlotte Hill heads up the UK financial services regulatory group, while Andrew Howell oversees the disputes and investigations practice.

Employment > Immigration Tier 4

Taylor Wessing LLP is noted for the strength of its global capabilities, both due to the wider firm’s presence internationally, and the team’s global focus. The group has ‘exceptional expertise’ in tech-related work. Practice head Sean Nesbitt leads on the firm’s integrated employment offering as co-head of the firm’s international employment, pensions, and mobility offering, while Charlie Pring and Vikki Wiberg focus exclusively on immigration mandates. Pring heads the team’s work for in-bound work from North America and has extensive experience working with tech sector clients, while Wiberg handles in-bound work from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East in addition to HNW matters.

Employment > Pensions (non-contentious) Tier 4

Taylor Wessing LLP‘s advisory pensions practice is noted as being formed of ‘excellent technical specialists' and is led by Mark Smith. The department utilises its cross-practice expertise to assist clients in pensions issues involving aspects such as cyber-security and data protection. It also has a particular expertise in the pensions aspects of corporate restructurings. Anna Taylor is a key name for defined benefit schemes work. Associates Georgie Wardrop and Afshan Mallik are also names to note within the team.

Real estate > Planning Tier 4

At Taylor Wessing LLP, the planning team sits within the real estate, infrastructure, and energy department. The group has a strong background in the hotel, hospitality and leisure sectors, as well as the luxury living, build-to-rent, and private rented sectors. Alistair Watson leads the planning team with 28 years’ experience advising on significant projects concerning stadia, airports, and real estate developments. Promoted to partner in 2022, Emma Tait continues to bolster the team’s involvement in urban regeneration projects.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > PATMA: Trade mark attorneys Tier 4

Roland Mallinson leads the brand management practice at Taylor Wessing LLP, which is adept at assisting clients with clearing, protecting, exploiting, and enforcing brands across the globe. Its client roster encompasses companies in the technology, media, consumer and retail, and life sciences sectors. Qualified French trade mark attorney France Delord is a notable member of the team, which also saw the addition of Alison Cole in April 2022 from Murgitroyd, and she has extensive expertise in contentious and non-contentious trade mark-related matters, as well as commercial mandates, such as licensing.

Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 5

The financial services and regulation team at Taylor Wessing LLP has ‘extensive knowledge’ in the fintech arena, advising on a broad range of matters concerning payment services, consumer lending, wealth management and banking. Praised as ‘approachable and great in communications’, Charlotte Hill leads the team and acts for banks, payment service providers, investment and asset managers, as well as brokers.

Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals) Tier 5

Taylor Wessing LLP has in-depth expertise in a range of financial crime investigations, ranging from tax fraud to money laundering and insider trading. The team maintains a strong client base which comprises CEOs, compliance managers, and industry experts, and is praised for defending individuals in bribery and corruption investigations brought by the SFO and FCA, as well as for demonstrating a growing presence in the cryptocurrency disputes sphere. Practice head David De Ferrars has more than 20 years of experience leading on major financial fraud cases, while David McCluskey shows ‘true pedigree’ in the international crime and regulatory space. Laurence Lieberman focuses on corporate investigations, while Richard Viegas and Tim Strong are also recommended.

Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail Tier 5

The banking litigation practice at Taylor Wessing LLP acts on a wide variety of matters, with expertise in hedge fund and financial institution litigation, cryptocurrency disputes, and insolvency-related disputes. The team is able to rely on the experience of the fraud department of the firm, both domestically and internationally. Andrew Howell and Laurence Lieberman lead the practice, the latter with specific expertise in life sciences and financial services. Richard Viegas and Nick Storrs are also noted.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: premium Tier 5

The ‘formidable’ practice at Taylor Wessing LLP acts for large UK and international organisations on leading commercial disputes, regularly handling complex, multijurisdictional matters. Andrew Howell is the head of the disputes and investigation practice, with expertise in the financial and professional services sectors, as well as professional negligence. ‘Unique lawyer‘ Katie Chandler has ‘outstanding legal skills, fully understands the client’s needs and has a good sense of humour‘, and is noted alongside ‘out of the box thinker‘ Richard Viegas. At associate level, ‘superb’ Lucy Waddicor is noted.

Real estate > Construction: contentious Tier 5

Taylor Wessing LLP represents developers and industry leaders in the real estate, infrastructure, and energy sectors, including a focus on mixed-use development schemes, build-to-rent investors, and public sector clients. Spearheading the team is Jonathan Hutt, who specialises in dispute avoidance and resolution regarding disputes under all major forms of contracts.

Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates) Tier 5

Acting on behalf of clients in the technology, pharmaceutical, and finance industries, Taylor Wessing LLP advises on the full scope of financial crime, routinely dealing with cross-border investigations involving HMRC enquiries, tax fraud, and insider trading. The team is experienced in crypto exchange and investment disputes, with co-head David De Ferrars boasting expertise in fraud and asset tracing within the technology sector. Fellow co-head Andrew Howell is an expert on complex regulatory investigations, while Tim Strong handles international commercial disputes. Both Laurence Lieberman and Richard Viegas regularly represent financial institutions and accountancy firms. Other key figures include 'standout practitioner' David McCluskey.

Finance > Acquisition finance Tier 6

Led by Martin Yells, Taylor Wessing LLP provides ‘high-quality advice’ to corporates and private equity firms engaged in mid-market acquisition finance mandates.  A significant amount of the work revolves around the tech sector, including the provision of debt financing to later stage venture-backed clients of the firm. The ‘hardworking’ Lerika Le Grange is a ‘first-rate banking lawyer’, and is a key member of the versatile team by virtue of her deep and wide expertise across new money and distressed debt/restructuring transactions.  

Finance > Corporate restructuring & insolvency Tier 6

Taylor Wessing LLP provides a ‘flexible and responsive’ service to IPs, corporates and lenders across a broad range of mid-market restructuring and insolvency matters. Amy Patterson is ‘extremely thorough and user friendly’ on contentious and non-contentious matters, including within the real estate sector. The firm’s overarching technology sector strength and IP expertise also informs a considerable amount of work within the insolvency space. In this context, Stephen O’Grady is particularly adept at advising crypto/blockchain participants on risk management and distressed opportunities. Team head Nick Moser is particularly effective at helping creditors realise value from capital structures involving ABL products.

Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 7

A litany of blue-chip corporate clients turn to the competition group at Taylor Wessing LLP for its expertise in handling multi-jurisdictional merger control matters. Team lead Paolo Palmigiano, a dual-qualified (English and Italian) practitioner, is noted for his experience advising clients in regulators sectors such as telecommunications and media, financial services, technology and life sciences sectors.

Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 7

Taylor Wessing LLP's London practice houses experts in arbitrations arising out of the life sciences, fintech, telecoms, and transportation sectors. Andrew Howell is global co-head of international disputes; Karel Daele is Mishcon de Reya LLP's former arbitration head; and Nick Storrs is 'highly commercial and a real fighter'.

Finance > Asset based lending