Partnership in London

Addleshaw Goddard

The ‘full-service’ partnership practice at Addleshaw Goddard has an ‘excellent reputation’ for advising on all aspects of partnership and limited liability partnership law including high value and cross-border transactional work, advisory work, investigations, and contentious matters such as partner exits and allegations of misconduct. Heading up the professional practices group is William Wastie who offers a broad practice relating to large international mergers, governance issues, partnership and LLP disputes as well as disciplinary investigations involving regulators such as the SRA and FCA. The ‘star’ lawyer Aster Crawshaw, who was recently elected as senior partner, is ‘knowledgeable, accessible and approachable’ and specialises in M&A, international structuring including network and Swiss Verein structures. Noted by peers in the market is Jonathan Cheney who has considerable experience advising on international and domestic mergers, reorganisations, joint ventures and contentious exits of partners from professional services firms, especially in the financial services industry. ‘Standout’ associate Jonathan Cakebread and Ben Sanderson are other key lawyers.

Practice head(s):

William Wastie


Other key lawyers:

Aster Crawshaw; Jonathan Cheney; Jonathan Cakebread; Ben Sanderson


Testimonials

‘The technical expertise of the team coupled with their deep understanding of the market and our business makes them our go-to team for partnership work.’

‘A great team of lawyers to work with. They have helped us successfully navigate everything from strategic issues to individual partner matters with pragmatism and sensitivity.’

‘The team has a particular focus on professional services firms and partnerships and so understands our structure well and the regulatory framework in which we operate.’

‘Aster Crawshaw is a very personable partner who treats his associates with respect and so you really get a really collegiate and inclusive team experience. Lauren Sinclair-Williams and Johnny Cakebread have been standout associates on transactions.’

‘The partnership practice has an excellent reputation. Following a recommendation, my firm instructed it for the first time in 2022 and I would not hesitate to instruct the team again. Its main strength is that it is one of the ‘go to’ firms for partnership work.’

‘Aster Crawshaw is a star. He is knowledgeable, accessible and approachable. It is no surprise that he has been appointed as Addleshaws’ new Senior Partner. Supporting Aster was Benedict Sanderson who was very calm and demonstrated a high level of attention to detail.’

The team has an extensive knowledge of the regulatory landscape for patent/trade mark firms. This includes domestic and international practices. They are also very approachable and the quality of advice is very commercial. Jonathan Cheney and Jonathan Cakebread are very knowledgeable.’

‘They are very experienced in LLP structures, have seen multiple scenarios and can therefore advise on practical outcomes of particular clauses, structures, etc. Jonathan Cheney is able to balance competing views and find pragmatic solutions.’

Key clients

Gerald Eve LLP


Moore Kingston Smith LLP


D Young & Co LLP


Montagu Evans LLP


Gill Jennings & Every LLP


Miller Insurance Services LLP


Work highlights


  • Advised Gerald Eve LLP on its cross-border sale to Newmark Group in a deal which involved incorporating a partner-owned LLP into a listed US business.
  • Advised Moore Kingston Smith LLP on its development objectives and investment opportunities, including an investment into the business by Waterland Private Equity.
  • Acted for Montagu Evans LLP and undertook a full review and redraft of the property consultancy’s LLP agreement and other constitutional documents, advising on the firm’s governance structure and profit sharing arrangements.

CM Murray LLP

Offering integrated partnership, employment and regulatory advice, the ‘standout firm for partnership disputes,’ CM Murray LLP, is headed up by Sarah Chilton, an ‘amazingly able’ specialist contentious partnership lawyer who also has expertise in the private equity sector, and Zulon Begum, ‘a top flight non-contentious lawyer’ who predominately focuses on corporate law matters. Acting for clients in the legal, accountancy, consultancy, real estate, insurance, private equity and hedge fund industries, the team has a significant reputation for handling disputes relating to team moves and internal investigations into alleged wrongdoing as well as corporate law matters such as governance of professional service firms. Founding and managing partner Clare Murray, ‘a visionary leader in her field’, acts for US and UK professional services firms, as well as equity partners in professional services and investment management firms, handling partner conduct and performance issues, partner exits, restrictive covenants and litigation. Corinne Staves, ‘a superb new addition’, offers experience in advising on international structures and international governance for professional services businesses. David Fisher often represents firms and individuals in contentious partnership disputes and has a particular focus on business protection. Acting as general counsel and specialising in employment and partnership law is the ‘standout’ Beth Hale, while Emma Bartlett regularly advises on LLP and partnership matters in the private equity and financial services space. Also of note is Andrew Pavlovic, who offers assistance with sensitive partnership investigations, partnership structuring and law firm mergers.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Chilton; Zulon Begum


Other key lawyers:

Clare Murray; David Fisher; Corinne Staves; Beth Hale; Emma Bartlett; Andrew Pavlovic; Wonu Sanda; Merrill April; Pooja Dasgupta


Testimonials

‘A standout firm for partnership disputes. The team are knowledgeable, hardworking, strategic and responsive. They are always a pleasure to work with. Wonu Sanda is an associate with partner written all over her.’

‘Sarah Chilton and Beth Hale are standout individuals at a standout practice. Their knowledge, strategic nous and dedication are second to none.’

‘A highly skilled team of market leading specialist partnership lawyers that offer great strength in depth. Clare Murray and Sarah Chilton are market leaders. David Fisher, Merrill April, Beth Hale and Zulon Begum are all talented partners.’

‘This is probably the best partnership and employment team in London for top echelon partnership disputes. Clare Murray is a legend. She has assembled a fabulously talented team including Corinne Staves, Andrew Pavlovic and Sarah Chilton.

‘Zulon Begum and Pooja Dasgupta understand the pressures law firm management teams are under and how to provide options to us. They provided advice in line with what they scoped, the time frame agreed and worked to manage costs for us as best as possible. Truly excellent advice on a very difficult subject matter.’

‘Merrill April is a perceptive and astute lawyer that you want advising you. Beth Hale is a delight to work with and Wonu Sanda is an associate on the rise, with great acumen. Zulon Begum applied her knowledge of partnership agreements to our unique business needs.’

‘CM Murray led by the visionary Clare Murray, is hard to beat as a niche partnership boutique practice. They have superb lawyers at all levels and in recent years have developed other areas of practice such as regulatory and non litigious work so they can offer clients a truly all-round service.’

‘Clare Murray is a visionary leader in her field. She is hard to beat as the partnership expert. Sarah Chilton and Beth Hale are amazingly able and technically superb lawyers that run the business.’

Key clients

Taylor Vinters LLP


BDB Pitmans LLP


Work highlights


  • Advised Taylor Vinters on its full merger with Mishcon de Reya, resulting in a single firm.
  • Advised BDB Pitmans on its potential merger with Womble Bond Dickinson.

Farrer & Co

The ‘strong partnership practice’ at Farrer & Co regularly advises individuals and firms in professional services firms including silver circle law firms, architects, asset managers, patent agents, FCA-regulated businesses and accountants. Handling major transactions, departures, team moves and disputes, the team also represents clients in the private client field including ultra-high-net-worth individuals and family offices. Practice head Jonathan Haley is a ‘highly experienced corporate lawyer’ who frequently advises a range of partnerships and individuals, especially in the regulated sectors, on business-critical transactions. Contentious partnership law and investigations expert Anna Birtwistle is ‘a great litigator, sensible, knowledgeable and all round superb’. The ‘experienced’ Eleanor Rowswell regularly acts for senior equity partners and LLPs on exits, appointments and disputes with specialisms in team moves, whistleblowing claims, remuneration agreements and discrimination litigation. Another key lawyer is Kathleen Heycock, a specialist external investigator who often assists with senior partner moves between professional services and IT firms, international disputes and acquisitions by regulated partnerships.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Haley


Other key lawyers:

Anna Birtwistle; Eleanor Rowswell; Kathleen Heycock; David Smellie


Testimonials

‘The partnership team’s collaboration with the firm’s private client team make them uniquely well placed to assist clients with landed estates. Jonathan Haley is a standout practitioner. He knows partnerships inside out, is quick and efficient and generally a joy to work with.’

‘A strong partnership practice with some standout individuals. Anna Birtwistle is truly outstanding. She is hard as nails as a litigator, who offers strategic nous, an ability to negotiate even the most difficult of settlements and having her client’s back every step of the way.’

‘A team with a good reputation, having them in your corner makes a difference and they have a tenacious approach in negotiating.’

‘Anna Birtwistle is sympathetic. She showed real empathy towards my cause. She has the ability to understand the legal and practical issues quickly, she is able to pull out the subtle matters and make a case of it. She is a hands on partner on the case.’

‘This practice is unique. We were attracted to them for their knowledge and experience of partnership and LLP law and we have received prompt attention to our requirements for legal advice to 17 different individuals as clients.’

‘First class as always with amazing and instant responses to emails and partners that are accessible. David Smellie and Jonathan Haley know their areas well.’

‘A very good partnership team with expertise in both litigation and structuring and non-contentious issues. They are extremely well regarded.’

‘Jonathan Haley is a highly experienced corporate lawyer who is fantastic with clients and commands total respect. Anna Birtwistle is a great litigator, sensible, knowledgeable and all round superb. Eleanor Rowswell is very experienced and knows her stuff.’

Key clients

Eugene F. Collins


Somerset Capital Management LLP


85 new lateral partner hires joining Ernst & Young


Partners of a high-value landed estate


S & T Asset Management LLP


A landed estate farming partnership


Altitude Prime LP


132 Commercial Street LLP


Work highlights


  • Advised Eugene F. Collins on its merger with Addleshaw Goddard LLP.
  • Advised Somerset Capital Management LLP on both constitutional and restructuring arrangements, including a publicised potential transaction.
  • Provided independent legal advice to all new lateral partner hires on their recruitment to Ernst & Young.

Fox Williams LLP

Fox Williams LLP is well versed in establishing foreign law firm partnerships in the UK. Frequently advising on a range of regulatory issues including breaches of the SRA Code and investigations. The team is also equipped to handle disputes and quasi-employment work, offering ‘real knowledge and expertise’. The team is led by the ‘astute, commercial and pragmatic’ Daniel Sutherland, who has ‘strong regulatory knowledge and is superb on drafting’. Senior partner Gavin Foggo acts mainly in the financial services and professional services sectors and is described as ‘one of the very best litigators in this field’ and ‘tenacious’. Aron Pope has a contentious practice, advising both employers and employees in the financial and professional services, fintech and technology space on partnership and employment disputes involving whistleblowing, discrimination, restrictive covenants and team moves. Handling both contentious and non-contentious partnership work is the ‘highly conscientious and intelligent’ Ed Livingstone.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Sutherland


Other key lawyers:

Gavin Foggo; Aron Pope; Ed Livingstone; Joanna Chatterton; David Butler; Douglas Preece


Testimonials

‘Daniel Sutherland is excellent, astute, commercial and pragmatic. He is ably assisted throughout by the up-and-coming, Ed Livingstone, who is highly conscientious and intelligent.’

‘The team has strength in employment and partnership but also in broader dispute litigation.’

‘Gavin Foggo has a deep understanding of partnership but also has wide experience of fraud and general commercial litigation. He is tenacious but sensible, and very hands on.’

‘One of the very best teams in the field. A wonderful firm with real knowledge and expertise.’

‘Gavin Foggo is one of the very best litigators in this field. He has brilliant instincts, great knowledge and is fantastic with people. Daniel Sutherland has really strong regulatory knowledge and is superb on drafting.’

‘Fox Williams have a practice group within the firm that are set up specifically to advise American and other non-UK firms on a broad variety of issues unique to foreign law firms.’

‘Daniel Sutherland heads up the law firm practice and functions as a superb advisor on a broad variety of legal issues unique to law firms operating in the UK and advising on UK and American legal issues faced by life science, fintech and technology enterprises operating in the US, UK and EU.’

Key clients

Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati P.C.


Reed Smith LLP


King & Wood Mallesons


Holland & Knight UK LLP


Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP


THM Partners LLP


Steptoe & Johnson


Nixon Peabody


Crowell & Moring


Reddie & Grose


Work highlights


  • Advised THM Partners LLP on the sale of its business to the large financial advisory and global consulting firm Alix Partners LLP.
  • Advised a client on its merger with a top 20 law firm.
  • Advised an accountancy firm client on the demerger of an international office.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP

Operating across the legal, financial and professional services sector, the ‘top flight’ partnership and LLPs department at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP offers a practice encompassing specialists in the disputes, corporate, employment, incentives, regulatory and tax field. The team is co-headed by corporate lawyer Malcolm Lombers, who offers extensive experience in handling large partnership structures, mergers, disposals for major accountancy firms and joint ventures, and Alan Watts, who is frequently instructed on high profile partnership disputes for hedge funds, global law firms, professional service firms and real estate organisations. Complementing their employment practices, the ‘capable and effective litigator’ Tim Leaver and the ‘brilliant’ Nick Wright handle contentious and non-contentious partnership work. Andrew Taggart’s expertise lies in disputes, investigations and appointments and exits of members and employees of LLPs, while Chris Bushell focuses on contentious matters particularly in the asset management space. Members of the firm’s tax group, Josh Lom and Isaac Zailer, specialise in advising on the structuring of taxation on partnerships, both in the UK and internationally.

Practice head(s):

Malcolm Lombers; Alan Watts


Other key lawyers:

Tim Leaver; Nick Wright; Andrew Taggart; Chris Bushell; Josh Lom; Isaac Zailer


Testimonials

‘Nick Wright is highly responsive, knowledgeable and commercial.’

‘Nick Wright is brilliant.’

‘A really top flight group that is highly professional.’

Key clients

Anchorage Capital


KPMG


PWC


Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner


Willis Towers Watson


The Ardonagh Group


Work highlights


  • Advised Anchorage Capital in respect of its partnership entity restructuring arrangements, including the adaptation of two existing US LLP Deeds.
  • Assisted a professional services client in relation to two separate claims of professional negligence brought by former clients of the firm.
  • Advised a private banking organisation in relation to the departure of one of their senior partners and apparent breaches of the restrictions placed on them while on garden leave.

Fox & Partners

Acting for both LLPs and partners, particularly across the professional and financial services sectors, the ‘highly focused boutique’ Fox & Partners has a ‘very commercial and practical’ partnership team. The unit is jointly headed up by the ‘exceptionally talented’ Catriona Watt, who advises on issues including contentious departures and arrivals, and Caroline Field, an ‘extremely competent and good strategist’ who has experience litigating in a broad range of dispute resolution forums. Founder of the Association of Partnership Practitioners Ronnie Fox is a ‘brilliant deal maker’ and is particularly known for negotiating departure arrangements. The ‘responsive and helpful’ Shoshana Bacall offers extensive experience in advising on partner departures, contentious exit arrangements, partner investigations and disciplinary matters, an area of growth for the team. Dean Fuller advises on regulatory and corporate aspects of partnership law, while Ivor Adair has recent experience of advising international law firms in relation to contentious exits. Other key lawyers include senior associate Shiv Raja, who acts for partners, LLPs and partnerships in the professional services sector. Eleanor Diamond moved to Lewis Silkin in August 2023.

Practice head(s):

Catriona Watt; Caroline Field


Other key lawyers:

Ronnie Fox; Shoshana Bacall; Dean Fuller; Ivor Adair; Shiv Raja


Testimonials

‘This is a highly focused boutique team representing senior executives and employers in high value cases.’

‘A very commercial and practical team with great client skills. Catriona Watt is strategically adept and commercially astute, with great client management skills. Shiv Raja is very approachable and practical.’

‘Fox and Partners have built the leading partnership practice in the country, with deep knowledge of the issues, huge dedication to their clients, and a profile to be envied.’

‘Caroline Field is a wonderful lawyer. Ronnie Fox is a giant in the area. He has significant experience and is a brilliant deal maker. Ivor Adair is extremely bright and intellectually on the button. Shiv Raja is a fantastic associate, so efficient and capable.’

‘I sought advice on a partnership agreement under considerable time pressure. Fox & Partners accommodated my needs in a flexible and thoughtful manner and provided sound advice in a digestible format. Shoshana Bacall was particularly responsive and helpful.’

‘Caroline Field leads the team with effortless elan. She is very tough and commercial and ensures that her clients do not fight cases without coming out on top at the end of it. Ivor Adair is an excellent litigator.’

‘The team of Catriona Watt and Shoshana Bacall were exceptionally good, both personable and professional and appeared to collaborate well. Shoshana delves deep into issues with great attention to detail. She is very impressive.’

‘Caroline Field and Shiv Raja are both superlative and exceptional lawyers. They are exceptional legal analysts with brilliant reputations.’

Kingsley Napley LLP

The cross-departmental and ‘top quality’ partnership team at Kingsley Napley LLP regularly assists financial services firms, professional service firms, and individual partners in contentious work concerning employment, regulatory, criminal and reputation management matters. Recent work has included partner and team moves, complex remuneration structures, partner expulsions and non-compete disputes. The team is headed up by Adrian Crawford, who focuses on the City, financial services and professional services sectors, and Iain Miller, who is frequently instructed by regulated professional services partnerships for SRA-related regulatory advice. Jessica Clay is well versed in advising firms and individuals in SRA-related matters including changes to business structures and reporting obligations as well as matters relating to AML and counter-inclusive conduct. Acting across various sectors is the ‘great litigator’ Corinne Aldridge, whose expertise lies in investigations, retirements, post-termination restrictions and claims relating to whistleblowing and discrimination. Nick Ralph is ‘quick to understand a situation as it develops’ whether this involves dismissals, contract negotiations or post termination restrictions. Richard Fox has adopted a senior consultant position. Accountancy sector expert Julie Matheson, regulatory specialist Julie Norris, Andreas White, who is adept in dispute resolution and investigations for clients in the professional services and financial services sectors, and John Young, who is proficient in corporate partnership work, are other key lawyers.

Practice head(s):

Adrian Crawford; Iain Miller


Other key lawyers:

Jessica Clay; Corinne Aldridge; Nick Ralph; Richard Fox; Julie Matheson; Julie Norris; Andreas White; John Young


Testimonials

‘Top quality private client department and employment lawyers at affordable prices. They are hidden gems.’

‘The team is easy to deal with, very accessible and quick to understand the details of the situation/case.’

‘Nick Ralph is very understanding and pleasant to deal with, has good knowledge of the legals and is quick to understand the situation as it develops.’

‘A good team spanning employment and partnership disputes. They have good experience of dealing with senior executives and partners.’

‘Corinne Aldridge is a great litigator and adviser. She handles very sensitive cases calmly, sensibly and with good judgment. Clients can have confidence in her advice.’

Lewis Silkin

Offering a holistic service with ‘strength and depth across the partnership, employment and commercial fields’, Lewis Silkin services law firms, hedge funds, private equity managers and debt advisory businesses, particularly in relation to highly sensitive disputes arising from misconduct allegations and partner exits. The team also offers experience in contentious matters such as expulsion, fiduciary duties, restrictive covenants and remuneration disputes and non-contentious work such as mergers, internal policies, business formation and restructuring. Heading up the group is the ‘extremely experienced’ Clive Greenwood. He is frequently instructed in disputes concerning compulsory retirement and performance. Partnership and LLP agreement expert Fergus Payne advises professional services firms on restructuring projects and mergers and has now adopted the role of consultant at the firm. Heading up the investigations team is Karen Baxter, an employment and partnership law specialist that advises on investigations involving allegations of professional misconduct, team moves, partner obligations and disputes. Michael Burd is known for his focus on large-scale and international litigation, arbitration and agreements work. Managing associate Frances Simm, described by one client as a ‘star,’ has recently advised international law firms, national accountancy firms and individuals on contentious LLP disputes and investigations. Professional services specialist Chris Hallinan joined the practice in July 2023 from Addleshaw Goddard .

Practice head(s):

Clive Greenwood


Other key lawyers:

Fergus Payne; Karen Baxter; Michael Burd; Frances Simm; Shalina Crossley; Fraser McKeating; Chris Hallinan


Testimonials

‘Clive Greenwood runs a team with great skills and experience in the partnership arena, handling the most complex litigation.’

‘Clive Greenwood is great to work with, cerebral, thoughtful and with great judgment. He is calm and reassuring with clients and counsel alike. Fraser McKeating and Frances Simm are great up and coming litigators.’

‘A standout team of superb lawyers who are brilliant to deal with.’

‘Clive Greenwood is one of the very best in the field. He has huge amounts of knowledge and is brilliantly efficient. Clients love him and he is a joy to work.

‘An extremely hardworking, diligent and focused team with personable lawyers, very good accessibility and experience in the partnership field.’

‘Clive Greenwood is extremely experienced and very commercially savvy. He is able to see the big picture in a case and is very focused in his strategic thinking.

‘Lewis Silkin’s strength and depth across the partnership, employment and commercial fields make them a formidable team.’

‘Clive Greenwood is a safe pair of hands. He is commercial, assured, knowledgeable, unflappable and practical. If I was ever in the unfortunate position of having a partnership dispute, I would instruct him.

Key clients

Haysmacintyre


United Agents


Mishcon de Reya LLP

The cross-departmental team of specialists at Mishcon de Reya LLP offers ‘exceptional experience’ in partnership and LLP disputes and matters concerning the rights and obligations between the LLP and its members. Operating across a broad range of sectors including accountancy, financial and professional services, the ‘experienced, sensible and service-minded’ lawyers have handled unlawful competition, and remuneration disputes in the High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. The team also advises on the structuring, set up and management of LLPs, incentive structures and exit strategies. Practice head Daniel Naftalin has extensive experience in acting for LLPs, corporates and senior executives and offers expertise in team moves, discrimination, LLP disputes and restrictive covenant enforcement. Joanna Blackburn has a broad practice, covering both contentious and non-contentious matters in the employment space and advising LLPs on matters affecting their members. The ‘exceptional’ Jennifer Millins specialises in team moves advisory work, discrimination and whistleblowing claims, restrictive covenant and equal pay disputes. Operating at the intersection of employment law and regulation is Greg Campbell. He is skilled at handling major disciplinary investigations involving senior executives and allegations of misconduct by employers and regulators.

Practice head(s):

Daniel Naftalin


Other key lawyers:

Joanna Blackburn; Jennifer Millins; Greg Campbell; Naaman Butt; Laura Penny


Testimonials

‘Best in class understanding of how the partnership model works in financial services. They have deep knowledge of the pitfalls within those documents and offer clever drafting of IMA to best protect the individual from catch all clauses in the partnership agreement.’

‘Laura Penny displayed clever and practical drafting around the individual members agreement to best protect my interests but in a way that was acceptable to the partnership.’

‘Already the leading employment practice in the country, Mishcon continues to expand and impress with the range of its partnership work and expertise.’

‘The team has exceptional experience in advising partnerships and LLPs on all aspects of governance and the intricacies and fast-moving dynamics of modern partnerships. Jennifer Millins is an exceptional lawyer.’

‘A very experienced, sensible and service minded team. Laura Penny is smart, dedicated and very easy to work with.’

‘Good international network and connections to relevant counsel to consult with on my case. My experience has involved friendly, approachable and enjoyable interactions.’

‘Jennifer Millins and Jamie Barton were both incredibly helpful, proactive and insightful. They brought the right people together globally to consult on my case.’

Key clients

Ondra LLP


OTC LLP


Millennium Capital Partners LLP


Vista Equity Partners LLP


Apax Partners LLP


Finnegan Europe LLP


Capeview Capital LLP


Fried Frank LLP


Dave White and Clark Coffee, Partners at Tyndaris LLP


Weightmans LLP

Led by the ‘ever-excellent’ Andrew Cromby, who frequently handles partnership disputes, professional partnerships in management and restrictive covenants, Weightmans LLP provides ‘top level advice’ particularly in relation to the team’s niche offering in restructuring and insolvency matters in partnership practices. Alongside expertise in structuring LLPs and alternative business structures, the team is also instructed by clients in the health sector with Edwina Farrell leading on matters relating to medical partnerships. The firm’s June 2022 merger with RadcliffesLeBrasseur LLP saw legal partnership experts Susanna Heley and Nigel West join, bolstering the regulatory capabilities at the practice. Michelle Garlick, who is based in Manchester, provides compliance, regulatory support and assistance on partnership matters.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Cromby


Other key lawyers:

Edwina Farrell; Susanna Heley; Nigel West; Michelle Garlick


Testimonials

‘A good team led by the ever-excellent Andrew Cromby: a partnership heavyweight.’

‘Andrew Cromby is very focused and commercial. I would use him for partnership disputes.’

‘This practice provides efficiency, availability and competence.’

‘Andrew Cromby took very good care of my case, being available when needed and providing the moral support in a difficult/stressful situation.’

‘Top level advice.’

‘Andrew Cromby is the real star. He can always be relied on for high-quality, commercial advice that has the client’s best interests at heart.’

Winckworth Sherwood LLP

The ‘high quality and thorough’ team of lawyers at Winckworth Sherwood LLP has recently been active across partnership withdrawals and moves, removal of partners and allegations of discriminatory and inappropriate behaviour. The team is led by the ‘excellent’ Jo Keddie, who ‘is at the top of her game’ and has significant experience of acting for major clients including magic circle and US global firms in the High Court, Employment Tribunals and international arbitrations. A key destination for law and accountancy firms, private equity houses and investment funds, the team also specialises in advising clients in the residential developer space. Focusing on contentious partnership work is Bettina Bender, who acts for firms and individual LLP members and offers expertise in potential disputes and exit arrangements, misconduct allegations, investigations and internal partnership law. Another key lawyer is Louise Lawrence, whose practice focuses on partner exits, discrimination and whistleblowing claims. Danielle Crawford, noted by clients as ‘highly intelligent’ and ‘very practical,’ is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Jo Keddie


Other key lawyers:

Bettina Bender; Louise Lawrence; Danielle Crawford


Testimonials

‘A very high quality and thorough team.’

‘Jo Keddie is fantastic. She pursues her clients’ interests with huge tenacity.’

‘A very experienced and responsive team. with good senior guidance.’

‘A highly effective and professional employment department. The team has highly experienced partnership practitioners (at partner and associate levels) with particular expertise in dealing with complex partnership disputes. They are focused, robust and commercially astute.’

‘Jo Keddie is at the top of her game. She is a highly accomplished litigator and negotiator with an impressive client roster, she is calm under pressure, has a mastery of the detail of her cases and is an incredibly effective lawyer.

‘Danielle Crawford is very smart and works hard for her clients. She is highly intelligent, but also very practical and she produces great results.’

‘The team is very good on strategy and calm under pressure. They can handle complex situations very well.’

‘The team has depth of experience in partnership and employment disputes, especially in the professional services and financial services sectors.’

Work highlights


Bennett Briegal LLP

Founded in 2019 by the ‘extremely knowledgeable, down to earth and personable' Paul Bennett and Mark Briegal, Bennett Briegal LLP acts for accountants, GPs, investors, and business consultants. Recent work has involved advising clients on partner exits, mergers, partnership disputes relating to partnership restructuring and alleged partner misconduct. Briegal, a member of the APP committee, handles the corporate elements of partnership law including mergers, drafting agreements, negotiations and disputes. The highly experienced solicitor advocate Bennett has experience in litigation, regulation and compliance and commercial advisory work. The firm’s main office is situated in Warrington.

Practice head(s):

Mark Briegal; Paul Bennett


Testimonials

‘The team offers clear sector knowledge based on experience. Paul and Mark are both driven to deliver results for their clients and know what they are talking about based on their specialism within and experience of the legal sector.’

‘Mark Briegal was excellent, knew his subject and was easy to deal with.’

‘It is the quintessential niche firm, only acting for professionals. The team involves two highly experienced partners, both experts in what they do. And they’re fun to deal with.’

Key clients

HW Independent Financial Management (HWIFM)


WR Partners


Tilly Bailey and Irvine


Stokes Partnership


Work highlights


  • Advised the members of Stokes Partners LLP on their merger with Everys Solicitors LLP.
  • Advised HW Independent Financial Management (HWIFM) on the exit of two partners.
  • Advised WR Partners in relation to breach of covenants by a former member of the partnership.

Clyde & Co

Clyde & Co handles a broad range of matters including election to partnership, terminations, bonuses, team moves and disputes. The practice has a strong reputation for handling claims against professional firms, regulatory matters, conducting investigations and acting for both firms and individuals in disciplinary proceedings. A trio of lawyers lead the team including Richard Harrison who is head of the firm’s professional liability group. Also co-heading the practice are Chris Holme, who offers extensive experience in discrimination and employment issues, and Simon Vere Nicoll, who advises on the complete cycle of a partnership from incorporation to conversion into limited liability partnerships. Another key name is disputes and regulatory investigations expert Fergal Cathie who frequently acts in high-value professional malpractice litigation.

Practice head(s):

Richard Harrison; Chris Holme; Simon Vere Nicoll


Other key lawyers:

Fergal Cathie


Dechert LLP

The ‘highly commercial and thoughtful’ partnership team at Dechert LLP offers a ‘breadth of expertise’ particularly in the financial services and investment management space. Practice head Jason Butwick is a ‘highly commercial and creative’ lawyer and regularly handles the drafting and structuring of partnership and employment documentation, remuneration code matters and partnership, and employment disputes. ‘Expert’ lawyer Daniel Hawthorne specialises in employee taxation and incentivisation matters for corporate and financial services clients. Also of note is Craig Borthwick, whose expertise lies in the formation and structuring of investment funds and fund platforms. Corporate lawyer Jonathan Angell‘s case load includes advising LLPs and their members on amendments to existing membership agreements and regulatory matters.

Practice head(s):

Jason Butwick


Other key lawyers:

Daniel Hawthorne; Craig Borthwick; Jonathan Angell


Testimonials

‘Highly commercial and thoughtful, a breadth of expertise.’

‘Jason Butwick is highly commercial and creative, an ideal partner on complex transactions or projects.’

Daniel Hawthorne is an expert on far more than international tax with an excellent breath of knowledge and experience across a range of corporate and commercial matters including, in particular, management incentives.’

‘Dechert lawyers are very good technically and produce good quality, practical advice.’

‘Overall, they have a very broad practice with US and UK full cover and have a collegial approach internally, which helps them to put forward the best team.’

‘Chris Gardener remains an excellent practitioner, with a broad skill set and the ability to capture the right resource at the right skill level when needed.’

‘What stands out and is key about this team is the breadth of service from classic employment matters (contracts/redundancies/employee disputes) to partnership/ LTIP and related tax advice.’

Howard Kennedy LLP

The cross-disciplinary practice at Howard Kennedy LLP assists clients on a range of contentious and advisory partnership matters including the formation of LLPs, the rights and obligations of partners and LLP members, and business crime issues affecting partners and LLPs. The team is jointly headed by the ‘knowledgeable’ mediator and consultant Robert Craig, and Jane Amphlett, who principally handles contentious and business-critical partnership work including partner appointments and departures, enforcement of restrictive covenants and remuneration matters. Sam Murray-Hinde is another key lawyer and advises on investigations, exits, discrimination and whistleblowing claims.

Practice head(s):

Robert Craig; Jane Amphlett


Other key lawyers:

Sam Murray-Hinde


Testimonials

‘Strong general business litigation team which can turn their hand to partnership well.’

‘Robert Craig is very knowledgeable in the area.’

‘Incredibly responsive team that offers commercial and pragmatic advice, cutting through to the core issues.’

‘Sam Murray-Hinde has been our partner contact throughout. Sam is extremely approachable, commercial and responsive. Her advice is candid and realistic.’

Key clients

TCI Advisory Services LLP


TCI Fund Services LLP


Work highlights


  • Advising TCI Advisory Services LLP on a wide range of partnership and employment matters.
  • Advising TCI Fund Services LLP on partnership and employment matters.

VWV

Heading up the ‘very knowledgeable’ partnership practice at VWV in Bristol is the ‘class act’ Jos Moule, who another client noted as the ‘go-to expert on partnership law’. Also a member of the APP, Moule often acts for GPs, vets, accountants and solicitors as well as trading and investment partnerships in both contentious and non-contentious matters. Ben Willis leads the healthcare team. He is a specialist in the funding and development of partnership property for clients in the healthcare industry. Described as ‘one of the very best in healthcare partnership disputes’ Oliver Pool handles partnership agreements and is active in developing new super partnership models. Litigating partnership disputes is the ‘terrific’ Nick Martindale who displays a ‘practical and commercial approach’.

Practice head(s):

Jos Moule


Other key lawyers:

Ben Willis; Oliver Pool; Nick Martindale; Rachel Crean; Rachel Kelsey


Testimonials

‘A very strong medical partnership group with a standout partnership practitioner, Jos Moule. Jos Moule is a class act. He is extremely knowledgeable, excellent with clients and superb on drafting too.’

Oliver Pool is one of the very best on health sector partnership disputes.

‘With a particular specialism in GP disputes, but also an excellent general partnership and commercial offering, VWV are leaders in their field.’

‘Nick Martindale’s practical and commercial approach, backed up by serious knowledge of the law and the ability to write a compelling letter make him an excellent solicitor.’

‘Rachel Kelsey is one to watch. She is smart, efficient and knowledgeable.’

‘This team has partners who have very good knowledge of their business sector and provide excellent service tailored to suit individual requirements.’

‘A vast breadth of experience across a wide range of industry sectors. Jos Moule and Nick Martindale are terrific.’

‘Jos Moule is the go to expert on partnership law. Jos Moule has rare expertise, coupled with a refreshing ability to explain difficult concepts clearly and concisely.’

Key clients

Dr Crème and Partners


Gleeds (management/construction consultancy)


PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (chartered accountants)


Lakeside Healthcare


Victoria Medical Centre


Stevens Hewlett & Perkins (patent and trade mark attorneys)


Stubbs Rich LLP (architects)


Tilehurst Surgery


Cuckfield Medical Practice


Five Valleys Medical Practice


Work highlights


  • Advised Lakeside Health on numerous acquisitions and advised on the transfer and development of their property portfolio.
  • Acted for Victoria Medical Centre on the grant of a lease of a unit in a shopping centre to create a new town centre branch surgery which also functions as a digital practice.

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is well versed in advising both individuals and partnership structures, particularly in relation to limited liability partnerships and limited partnerships. The team assists on a full range of matters such as drafting and updating constitutional documents, transactional work, regulatory matters and partnership disputes. Practice head Charlie Ring principally focuses on the financial services sector, providing governance, constitutional and transactional advice to investment and wealth managers. Head of employment Nick Hurley handles the employment aspects of partnerships including cases involving discrimination, whistleblowing and TUPE matters. Anne-Marie Balfour advises employers and senior executives on employment law and litigation, as well as recruitment sector clients on regulatory compliance. Victoria Younghusband specialises in assisting investment funds on governance, mergers, restructuring and winding-ups. Previous team head David Hicks left the firm in December 2022.

Practice head(s):

Charlie Ring


Other key lawyers:

Nick Hurley; Anne-Marie Balfour; Victoria Younghusband


Key clients

Grant Thornton UK LLP


Dalton Strategic Partnership


Waverton Investment Management


RSM UK Restructuring Advisory LLP


Ascent Capital Africa


Brown Rudnick LLP


Fudco Partnership


Kreos Capital funds


Work highlights


  • Advising the Ascent Rift Vallely Fund and its manager Ascent Capital Africa on the final close of the fund in September 2022 at more than $128m.

Harrison Clark Rickerbys

The partnership team at Harrison Clark Rickerbys advises on the full spectrum of partnership and LLP work, ranging from SRA regulatory matters, law firm mergers and private equity deals to partnership disputes and drafting. The team’s client roster features fund managers, medical and farming partnerships, private equity houses and professional practices and is jointly led by the ‘very commercial’  Robert Capper, who specialises in commercial contracts and partnership work, and the highly regarded Rachel Khiara, who handles both the transactional and day-to-day management work of partnerships and LLPs.

Practice head(s):

Robert Capper; Rachel Khiara


Testimonials

‘Rachel Khiara is the go to person for complex regulatory advice. Her vast experience with Alternative Business Structures authorisations gives her unique insight into the approach by the regulator.’

‘The team works as a team should.’

‘Robert Capper brings a breath of fresh air to any project that we have worked on.  His approach is very balanced, well thought through and above all practical to ensure the best possible outcome for the client.’

‘A very capable and efficient team. They have great abilities in the medical partnership field too. A growing force.’

‘Robert Capper is very commercial and capable. He slices through to the point and is a powerful lawyer.

‘Rachel Khiara is a great addition to the team. She has vast partnership experience, is superb with clients and a strong lawyer.’

Key clients

LegalZoom.com, Inc /Pulse Global Services Limited


Burford Law (UK) Holdings Limited (SRA regulated)


Work highlights


  • Advising a fund manager on complex LLP constitutional issues and specialist FCA regulatory advice, arising in relation to a dispute with the management team, which has an aggregate consideration of c.£20m.
  • Advising a global law firm in relation to its international structure in the UK, USA, Australia and France, including drafting the LLP Deeds and constitutional documentation.
  • Advising a private equity buy and build specialist in relation to its entry into the legal services sector, commencing with the acquisition of a national top 100 law firm.

Keystone Law

Keystone Law offers ‘an accessible and personal service’ to professional practices and individual members including accountants. Peter Garry specialises in resolving disputes within partnerships, LLPs and private limited companies and also advises on transactions, company governance and drafts agreements. Another lawyer to note is Emma Clark who advises on contractual documentation especially in relation to new hires, post termination restrictions and exits, and offers expertise in employment law, specifically discrimination and whistleblowing laws. Employment and partnership lawyer Clive Howard regularly assists individuals in the legal and financial services sector with contentious exits and discrimination claims.

Other key lawyers:

Peter Garry; Clive Howard; Emma Clark


Testimonials

‘The practice provides an accessible and personal service that understands and meets client needs.’

‘Peter Garry is very professional, quickly establishes the facts and provides appropriate solutions, helping and supporting in a timely manner. He is a personable individual, very knowledgeable and available when needed. He puts client at ease and builds a trusting relationship. As his client, you are pleased he is on your side as he is quick to take action and deliver results.’

‘Peter Garry dealt with my partnership issue succinctly and swiftly. He is a fountain of knowledge in the area of the law.’

‘An accessible, personal service that understands and meets client needs. Value for money, no time wasting and transparent with costs.’

Macfarlanes LLP

The cross-departmental group at Macfarlanes LLP offers a range of services to professional services firms and private client individuals including advice on M&A, tax and structuring of partnerships, financial regulation and dispute resolution support. Heading up the team is Jessica Adam, a member of the APP, who acts for private equity houses, asset managers, professional services firms and LLPs in relation to mergers. Also of note is Hayley Robinson who handles employment law work for LLPs, particularly in the financial services sector, regarding workplace issues, recruitment, exits, restrictive covenants and restructurings.

Practice head(s):

Jessica Adam


Other key lawyers:

Hayley Robinson


McCarthy Denning

McCarthy Denning‘s partnership practice is headed up by the ‘incredibly knowledgeable’  Tina Williams, who joined the team in May 2022 from Fox Williams LLP. Areas of expertise include the establishment of partnerships, international structuring and mergers. Partner and team moves, regulation and management issues are additional strengths. The firm is a popular destination for law firms, accountancy practices, surveyors and multi-disciplinary practices.

Practice head(s):

Tina Williams


Testimonials

‘Tina Williams is incredibly knowledgeable and speaks from experience. You want her on your side.’

‘McCarthy Denning have always been incredibly collaborative and responsive to the various ad-hoc requests we give to them at short notice.’

‘We work with Tina Williams, who is an absolute pleasure to work with. She knows everything about UK LLPs.’

Key clients

Vitruvian Partners LLP


IBB Law LLP


Ogletree Deakins


Meysan Partners LLP


Dowgate Wealth Limited


Berrymans Lace Mawer LLP


Work highlights


  • Acted for Berrymans Lace Mawer LLP in connection with its merger with Clyde & Co LLP, creating a combined firm with turnover of £700m+.
  • Acted for IBB Law LLP on its merger with Thames Valley law firm Owen White LLP.
  • Advised law firm Meysan Partners LLP, with offices across the Middle East, on various strategic partnership matters.

Payne Hicks Beach LLP

Offering advice across a range of areas including tax, financial services, dispute resolution and employment, the partnership lawyers at Payne Hicks Beach LLP assist in the structuring, administration, and dissolution of partnerships. Head of team Jonathan Gatward is well versed in assisting with the entire life cycle of partnerships, whether this involves general, limited liability or limited partnerships. James Bacon specialises in tax, trust and succession law, offering significant experience in farming partnerships, while Simon Blackburn advises on all aspects of the management and transactions relating to farms, estates and country houses. Clients include traditional farming partnerships, high-net-worth individuals seeking property joint ventures, and professional practices.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Gatward


Other key lawyers:

James Bacon; Simon Blackburn


Key clients

Rayner Essex LLP


Griffins (insolvency practitioners)


Work highlights


  • Advising a top 50 London based accountancy practice on revisions to its LLP deed.
  • Advising a London based insolvency practitioner partnership on its possible conversion to an LLP.
  • Continuing to advise a top 100 law firm on its conversion to an LLP.

RPC

Offering ‘great breadth and depth’ in partnership law, the ‘contemporary practice’ at RPC offers ‘talented’ lawyers that are ‘excellent client handlers’ with ‘technical expertise’ and experience in cross-border matters. Practice chair Patrick Brodie, who has a contentious and non-contentious practice, focuses on partnership terminations, mergers and corporate reorganisations. The team’s broad client roster includes architects, solicitors, accountants, actuaries and patent agents.  Instructed on various matters affecting the legal service sector is the ‘technically astute’ Graham Reid, who offers extensive expertise in regulatory matters for professional services firms. The team expanded in January 2023 with the hires of the ‘good communicator’ and ‘technically solid’ Tom Wild from Mayer Brown International LLP and the ‘excellent, capable, down to earth’ Eleanor Kilner from Weightmans LLP.

Practice head(s):

Patrick Brodie


Other key lawyers:

Graham Reid; Tom Wild; Eleanor Kilner; Matt Evans


Testimonials

‘The RPC team is the model of a contemporary practice. They are focused, they are excellent client handlers, they are very talented, and they are very agile.’

‘I have worked with Eleanor Kilner for a number of years and she is excellent, capable, down to earth and a real joy to work with. I have also worked with Matt Evans who is also down to earth, humble and a brilliant star of the future.’

‘RPC’s team offers great breadth and depth. Their technical expertise is second to none whilst their communication and availability is always something that can be relied on too.

‘They very much understand the commercial aspects of client goals, and are not just focused on delivering the law.’

‘Graham Reid is very technically astute, quick thinking and a good problem solver. Tom Wild is solid technically and also a very good communicator.’

Shoosmiths LLP

The highly experienced Barry Stimpson leads the team at Shoosmiths LLP, specialising in advising asset and fund managers, law firms and accountancy firms with international operations on limited liability partnerships, agreements, and mergers. Recent work has involved the setting up of a new fund manager and advising international investment partnerships. The firm’s tax department and Kevin McCavish’s employment team support the practice, allowing for a complete partnership offering.

Practice head(s):

Barry Stimpson


Other key lawyers:

Kevin McCavish


Work highlights


  • Advised an asset management team regarding the establishment of a major new asset management organisation with entities in the UK, Canada, USA, and Luxembourg.
  • Advised an extensive UK and international client base of fund management, consultancy, recruitment and accountancy firms on their LLP Agreements and other constitutional, tax and regulatory issues.
  • Advised on a number of partner exits with regard to restrictive covenants and financial settlements.