Matheson LLP > Cork, Ireland > Firm Profile
Matheson LLP Offices
UNIT 1201-1202, BLDG. 1000
CITY GATE, MAHON
T12 W7CV
Ireland
Matheson LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Ireland > Asset finance Tier 1
Matheson LLP's large aviation finance and transportation group is backed by a dedicated asset finance tax team. The department has a strong track record in assisting aircraft lessors and private equity investors with establishing and expanding leasing platforms in Ireland, as well as advising banks, asset managers and financial institutions on cross-border financings involving export credit agencies (ECAs) and development finance institutions (DFIs). Other key drivers of work include handling structured finance and asset-backed securitisations (ABS) within the aviation finance arena, alongside ongoing restructuring issues arising from the Covid-19 pandemic. Rory McPhillips and Stuart Kennedy jointly head up the practice, in which Yvonne McWeeney, Stephen Gardiner and Maireadh Dale are key names to note.Practice head(s):
Rory McPhillips; Stuart Kennedy
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Matheson team are extremely approachable and have strong knowledge of the aviation industry which makes them are great legal service provider to any client in the industry. Matheson has a large team so they have capacity to support a variety of transactions. ’
‘Stuart Kennedy is extremely personable and approachable, he is always available to assist with excellent advice and pragmatic solutions.’
‘The team has very strong expertise and a leading market position in Ireland in the area of asset finance and aviation, which when coupled with speed of response and service orientation makes them a pleasure to deal with. ’
‘Stephen Gardiner’s work style and attitude make us enjoy working with him.’
‘The training and experience they have obtained and gained in working over the years in Matheson makes the team stand out over their competitors. Their philosophy is “can do”. Stuart Kennedy is unsurpassed when it comes to experience and how to get the transaction done efficiently and on time. Rory McPhillips is a superb lawyer and he can explain complex legal matters in an understandable way. Yvonne McWeeney is very responsive and has a great way of dealing with clients. Stephen Gardiner is a qualified private pilot and has a technical understanding of aviation matters that is unrivalled.’
‘Stuart Kennedy and Stephen Gardiner are the partners I know and have worked with most frequently. They are responsive, approachable, knowledgeable and go the extra mile for their clients and the instructing law firm. They are generous with their time and open to collaborating and opening up contacts and relationships, and spotting opportunities to work together. They demonstrate time and time again that they are leaders in their field and understand the value of long-standing relationships and the difference that can make to the experience of working with them.’
‘Yvonne McWeeney – responsive, helpful and efficient. Work is accurate and works well across all parties involved in a transaction.’
‘The team are very responsive and supportive to our business and generous with their knowledge and experience. We have very regular interaction with Rory McPhillips, Stuart Kennedy, Stephen Gardiner and Yvonne McWeeney all of whom are great legal partners to work with and focus on offering practical solutions.’
Key clients
FTAI Aviation
Aergo Capital Limited
Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA
CDB Aviation
UK Export Finance (UKEF)
CCB Aviation
Aviation Capital Group
AerCap
Castlelake, L.P.
LR AirFinance
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE)
PK AirFinance
Arctic Aviation Assets DAC
Jackson Square Aviation
Tokyo Century
Fortress Investment Group LLC
Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social (BNDES)
Bank of Communications Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. (BoComm Leasing)
CMB Financial Leasing (CMB Aviation)
Azorra Aviation
Work highlights
- Represented ALAFCO in the sale of 53 current and next-generation commercial passenger aircraft and an order for 20 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, valued at $2.2bn, to Macquarie.
- Acted as Irish counsel for Aquila, Royal Aero and Ashland Place on establishing an Irish joint venture platform between Aquila and Royal Aero.
Ireland > Banking and finance Tier 1
Matheson LLP is very highly regarded for its strength in handling debt restructurings, syndicated and bilateral loans, acquisition finance, sustainability-linked financings and loan portfolio sales. The team is regularly instructed by a solid client roster of international banks, domestic banks and financial institutions, as well as domestic and multinational companies, private equity houses and asset managers. Maireadh Dale, who co-heads the finance and capital markets department, has an excellent reputation for her experience in real estate finance, leveraged finance, corporate finance and asset finance. Patrick Molloy remains active in structured finance, securitisations, project finance, and general banking matters. David O’Mahony handles big-ticket financing mandates, and Paul Carroll has expertise in acquisition and leveraged finance and general corporate lending matters. Finnbahr Boyle made partner in January 2023; Donal O’Donovan and Michael Hastings have now left the firm.Practice head(s):
Turlough Galvin; Maireadh Dale
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Partner availability, support to work through structural nuances, turnaround time, communication.’
‘Paul Carroll- exceptional support and commitment to tight transactions.’
‘We work with both the regulatory advice team and the transaction team in Banking and Finance in Matheson. The sub-teams in Matheson seem to interact and collaborate well with each other and they have great strength and depth to their practice.’
‘Extremely capable and competent individuals. Very approachable with the requisite technical skills.’
‘Paul Carroll – very responsive, clear communicator, level-headed, transparent on billing, collaborative with colleagues in other departments.’
‘Patrick Molloy – technically very strong, responsive.’
‘Paul Carroll is outstanding. He has a great ability to grasp complex legal matters and to find practical solutions.’
Key clients
Citibank
Allied Irish Banks, plc
The National Treasury Management Agency
The Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland
The Ireland Strategic Investment Fund
Bord Na Mona
JPMorgan
Meta
ING Bank
WaterWipes
Stripe
Bank of Montreal
Goldman Sachs
Roundhill Capital
Macquarie
Barclays Bank plc
Danske Bank
Chenavari
Tynagh Energy Limited
Dell Bank
Ulster Bank
HSBC plc
Bank of Ireland
Rabobank
An Post
Horizon Pharma plc
Blackrock
Société Générale
Carne Group
Citibank
Tirlán Co-operative Society Limited (formerly Glanbia Co-operative Society Limited
HSBC Innovation Bank Limited (formerly Silicon Valley Bank)
Waystone Group
Vertex Inc
Work highlights
- Advised Bank of Ireland on a €315m syndicated facility advanced to the Tirlán (formerly Glanbia) Group, classified as a sustainability-linked loan.
- Advised Bank of Ireland on all aspects of its acquisition of all performing loan assets and deposits of KBC Bank Ireland.
- Advised the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland on the €500m Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme and the €500m Retrofit Loan Scheme.
Ireland > Capital markets Tier 1
Matheson LLP is a leading firm in the DCM, structured finance and securitisation arena, with an excellent track record in advising on several headline matters in the debt capital markets space. Turlough Galvin is a key figure in DCM work; other key names include Richard Kelly, William Foot and CLO expert Christian Donagh, who also handles structured finance, securitisation and repackaging programmes. Micheál Buckley is also singled out for his expertise in the DCM arena. On the ECM side, the department continues to handle a steady workflow of transactions, and is particularly well known for its expertise in de-SPAC transactions. George Brady, David Jones, Fergus Bolster, and David Fitzgibbon are key partners in equity matters. Eoin Shiel and Niamh Sheerin have left the firm.Practice head(s):
David Fitzgibbon; Turlough Galvin
Other key lawyers:
Patrick Molloy; Christian Donagh; Fergus Bolster; George Brady; Richard Kelly; Madeline McDonnell; Susanne McMenamin; David Jones; William Foot; Micheál Buckley; Alan Keating; Caroline Kearns; Alan Bunbury
Testimonials
‘ The practice is unique in how it aligns with the in-house team here. They are always looking ahead, not just at issues raised specifically with them. ’
‘Caroline Kearns is a stand out lawyer. Caroline looks beyond the issues raised to identify and address risks other than those raised specifically. Very safe hands. ’
‘Hugely knowledgeable and responsive team for Irish law securitisation vehicles and capital markets. Go to firm and team in Ireland.’
‘Alan Keating and Micheál Buckley are outstanding to work with. They have excellent knowledge of Irish legal matters and are always very responsive and generate high quality work product. ’
‘The team members at Matheson that we have worked with have always shown themselves to be very approachable and responsive to any queries we may have and come back with clear direct advice within a very short timeframe. ’
‘Christian Donagh and Alan Bunbury are stand-out partners in their field. They are always available, commercial, and excellent managers of their clients.
‘Richard Kelly stood out to me for the approach that he championed. Richard was also extremely personable and responsive, always responding quickly even out of hours. Richard consistently provided pragmatic solutions that helped us navigate from where we were (a problem with no solution) to an excellent outcome of an instrument that we could softly test with investors and deliver swiftly and cost effectively.’
‘The Matheson Capital Markets team has a huge amount of experience in all types of capital markets transactions, delivering advice in a timely manner and always available to discuss matters at short notice. Their responsiveness is excellent. Matheson ranks top for Capital Markets in Ireland.’
Key clients
Aegon Asset Management
Albacore Capital LLP
Alantra Corporate Portfolio Advisors, S.L.
Ally Financial
Anchorage
Andbank
Ares Management
Arini Capital
Audax Group
Banco Santander
Barclays Bank
BlackRock
Blackstone Credit
Cerberus
Chenavari
Citibank
Credit Suisse
Dell Bank
Deutsche Bank
Fidelity
Funding Circle
Goldman Sachs
Hayfin Capital Management
JPMorgan
Macquarie
Natixis
Oaktree
Onate
Sculptor Capital Management
Société Générale
Sound Point Capital Management
Stenn International
UBS
UniCredit
WisdomTree
Work highlights
- Acted for MariaDB in relation to a SPAC matter.
- Advised ProKidney on an Up-C de-SPAC transaction.
Ireland > Commercial, corporate and M&A Tier 1
Matheson LLP has maintained its significant market share of M&A transactions, which often involve Irish targets and acquirers. It remains at the forefront of transatlantic deals, including advising takeovers of Irish-listed companies. The firm has a sizeable client portfolio of international businesses, including Fortune 100 companies and a high number of top global technology brands. Recent areas of instruction include multi-billion dollar cross-border deals and pharmaceutical transactions; the group also fields expertise in handling M&A in the financial services and food sectors. George Brady, Patrick Spicer and David Fitzgibbon are seasoned practitioners, with established expertise in handling cross-border deals and Irish takeovers. Fergus Bolster is well versed in advising on cross-border transactions, including SPAC matters. Madeline McDonnell and Brian McCloskey are notable names for M&A and private equity. Robert Barrett and Enda Garvey are singled out for their contributions. Susan Carroll Chrysostomou was promoted to partner in January 2024. Eoin Shiel has left the firm.Practice head(s):
David Fitzgibbon; Darren Maher
Other key lawyers:
Fergus Bolster; George Brady; Susanne McMenamin; Patrick Spicer; Pat English; Madeline McDonnell; Brian McCloskey; Caroline Kearns; Enda Garvey; Susan Carroll Chrysostomou; Robert Barrett
Testimonials
‘The practice is unique in how it aligns with the in-house legal teams, and is always alert to risks, and looks beyond that which is specifically raised with them. Very reliable, excellent negotiators and very good availability.’
‘Caroline Kearns is a stand out individual, always identifying and addressing issues and risks other than those raised specifically with her. Excellent negotiator. Excellent response times and availability. ’
‘Patrick Spicer is an exceptional lawyer.’
‘David Fitzgibbon is exceptional in his practice area.’
‘Brian McCloskey is dynamic, clever, charming and utterly persuasive. This makes him the guy you want in your corner while all the other lawyers squabble over the meaningless minutiae of deals. He sees the bigger picture.’
‘Fergus Bolster is a highly sophisticated, but also user-friendly, M&A and general corporate lawyer. Fergus deeply engages with his matters but also interfaces with high quality associates, as appropriate. ’
‘We regularly work with Caroline Kearns who is adept at advising on legal risk but putting this into the commercial context – clients (and we as other legal counsel) value this highly. Darren Maher is also market leading in his technical expertise but also market/industry knowledge and deal experience. ’
‘Enda Garvey – very good commercial acumen and negotiation skills.’
Key clients
Advent International Corporation
AdvancedAdvT Limited
AIB
AIG
AMP Capital
AmTrust
An Post
Arena Pharmaceuticals
Astrix Technology
Aston Lark Group Limited
Aviva
Axa Group
Baader
Bain Capital Private Equity
Bank of Ireland
Barclays Bank plc
Battery Ventures
Bauer Media Group
BC8 S.P.R.L.
BioIq Inc
Birds Eye Food Limited
Blackbee Investments
Blackrock
BNY Mellon
Booking Holdings Financial Services
Bord na Mona
Bregal Milestone
BSO Group
bOpen Innovation Holding GmbH
CA Ventures
Canada Life Group Services Limited
Carbon Crowley
Carne Group
Carrier Global Corporation
CGI Inc.
Circle Internet Financial Limited
Citadel
Citi
Coinbase
Compagnie de Saint-Gobain SA
CSG Systems International Inc
Daily Mail/DMGT
Dawn Capital
Dell Technologies
DIF CIF II
Disney
DMS Governance
Dropbox
Druggability
Eaton Corporation plc
Encavis AM Management GmbH
Emerald Buyer Limited
Emerson Electric Co
Energia Renewables
Equilend
Ethypharm
FBD
FBG Enterprises Opco LLC
F-Prime Capital
Felicis Ventures
Fexco
Fidelity Investments
Fiserv
Franklin Templeton Investments
Freemantlemedia Group Limited
GAM Investment Management
Gavin and Doherty Geosolutions Limited
General Secure Logistics Limited
Genesys
Gemini Investments LP
Goldman Sachs International
Goode Partners LLP
Governor and Company of Bank of Ireland
Hanwha Energy
Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Horizon Therapeutics
ib vogt
IFG Group plc
ILHAWK Limited (Irish Life)
Impulse Dynamics plc
Independent News & Media
Insight Venture Partners LLC
Irish Distillers
IQ-EQ Group
ITBMed Group / Zelarion Group
Itron
Irving Oil
John Barron Environmental Limited
Johnson Hana International Limited
JP Morgan
Kargo Capital LLC
Kitman Labs
Kohlberg & Company LLC
LaSalle
Lead Edge Capital
Left Lane Capital
Liffey Meats
Linnaeus
LGT Group
Macquarie Bank Europe plc
Macquarie European Infrastructure Fund 6
Majesco
MariaDB Corporation Ab / MariaDB plc
Mcquarrie Wayward
Memjet group
Mercer
Mergon Group Limited
Metaverse Technologies Limited
Monaghan Mushrooms
Monument Life Insurance Designated Activity Company
Munich Re
nAperte Designated Activity Company
Nauta Capital VC Partners
Netwatch
Nomad Foods
Novo Nordisk A/S
Novo Holdings A/S
Novartis Pharma AG
NTR Ireland Investments 2 DAC
OASIS Group
Octopus Renewables Infrastructure Trust
One Peak Partners
Orpea SA
Paysafe
Planet
Polaris Scientific (Ireland) Limited
ProKidney LP
Ricoh
Riverside Partners
Royal Bank of Canada
Rubrik
Savvy Games Group
Scandy Standard
Secret Escapes
Shutterstock Inc
Singapore Biotech
Sitecore
Skymetrix
Smurfit Kappa Group plc.
Société Générale
Sofina Foods Inc
Speed Fibre Group
Spencer Stuart
SPP Pension & Försäkring AB (publ)
STAR Capital
State Street
STERIS plc
Stripe
Swift Spraoi Holdings Limited
S2G Ventures
Taoglas
Tapestry Inc
Tirlán.Co-operative Society Limited (formerly known as Glanbia Co-operative Society Limited)
Trinity Biotech plc
Unicredit
Unmind
Utmost Group
UtilityInnovation Group
Valeo Foods
Ventiga Capital Partners
Vermillion Energy Inc
Vertex Inc
Vertiv
Waterland Private Equity
Waystone Group
Weatherford International plc
Weight Watchers International Inc
Western Union
Willis Towers Watson plc
Zoom Video Communications, Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised Horizon Therapeutics on all aspects of its proposed acquisition by Pillartree Limited (a wholly owned subsidiary of Amgen Inc.), to be implemented as an Irish High Court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement.
- Advised Circle Internet Financial Limited on its announced transaction to go public through a business combination with Concord Acquisition Corp.
- Advised AXA Group on its €650m agreement to acquire Laya Healthcare Limited from Corebridge Financial, a subsidiary of AIG.
Ireland > Data privacy and data protection Tier 1
Matheson LLP handles the full spectrum of data protection mandates, including data processing work, security breaches, and issues relating to the rights and complaints of data subjects. The department is characterised by its diverse sector capabilities, acting for prominent clients in the software, finance, pharmaceutical, tech, and manufacturing industries. Practice head Anne-Marie Bohan is noted for her longstanding experience in pre-GDPR and GDPRs policies. Data protection and privacy litigation specialist Deirdre Crowley focuses on cyber incidents, artificial intelligence law and employment-related privacy issues. Michael Byrne is a key name on the contentious side of the practice.Practice head(s):
Anne-Marie Bohan
Other key lawyers:
Deirdre Crowley; Michael Byrne; Davinia Brennan; Carlo Salizzo
Testimonials
‘My experience is one of excellent collaboration with Matheson’s team of data protection lawyers. There is a particular expertise in the data protection and privacy application to financial services. They also produce brilliant knowledge resources.’
‘Anne-Marie Bohan has in-depth knowledge of financial services regulation, which she complements with her data protection and privacy expertise. Davinia Brennan’s knowledge output is brilliant.’
‘Anne-Marie Bohan is very approachable yet extremely knowledgeable and practical.’
‘One of the big advantages of the data protection team in Matheson for an organisation such as ours is their ability to marry expertise in data protection. This insight enables them to think and advise in line with the appropriate risk management mindset.’
‘Anne-Marie Bohan is an excellent privacy practitioner. Fully up to speed on all industry developments and always works to negotiate the best position for clients.’
‘The team is extremely thorough and responsive.’
‘Carlo Salizzo helped me with quite a difficult and complex query. The knowledge of the regulatory landscape and the quality of the advice given allowed me to challenge an internal norm confidently.’
‘Carlo Salizzo’s team provided me with the advice I needed within a very quick timeframe. When that advice needed an amendment to fit an internal governance meeting, Carlo was available for a call and turned around the amendments quickly.’
Key clients
Adoption Authority of Ireland
AIB
An Post
Bank of Ireland
Centric Health
Chartered Accountants Ireland
Discord
Glanbia| |Pensions Trustees
Irving Oil
Microsoft
Monument Life Insurance |DAC
Tír| Lan Co-op
X
Voyager Aviation Holdings, LLC
WaterWipes
Zoom Video Communications Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised Reddit on data protection matters.
- Advised Bank of Ireland on the data protection aspects of its €7.8bn acquisition of the assets of KBC on KBC’s departure from the Irish market.
- Advised the Chartered Accountants of Ireland on a range of matters relating to data protection.
Ireland > Dispute resolution Tier 1
Matheson LLP fields a substantial team of dispute resolution specialists with large numbers at every level of seniority. It has a major market share of commercial cases before the High Court. The firm continues to be recognised for financial services disputes, regulatory enforcement cases and investigations. The firm is also noted for technology and data privacy disputes. It remains active in competition follow-on damages actions and insurance coverage disputes. Deirdre Crowley has transferred from the technology and innovation group into the regulatory investigations team to focus on technology and privacy matters. Nicola Dunleavy has a huge reputation in the market and Julie Murphy-O’Connor is a prominent name in banking-related asset recovery and enforcement matters, along with commercial court disputes. Karen Reynolds is a leader in financial services regulatory investigations. April McClements specialises in insurance litigation, and Michael Byrne in technology and data-related cases. Ruadhán Kenny and Connor Cassidy were promoted to partner in January 2024.Practice head(s):
Nicola Dunleavy; Julie Murphy O’Connor
Other key lawyers:
Angela Brennan; Karen Reynolds; April McClements; Michael Byrne; Ruadhán Kenny; Connor Cassidy
Testimonials
‘The Matheson team has been very supportive in a claim situation our company had in Ireland. Several times their prompt assistance and advices were needed at short notice and the Matheson team always supported us in a timely matter in this true Tier 1 practice.’
‘Nicola Dunleavy, Senior Partner, is extremely competent and I have personally worked with her since 2016 and always received the best support, although team members reporting to her have done much of the ground works the last years. However, as soon as presence in customer negotiation meetings are needed, she has always been present in person.’
‘Ruadhán Kenny has been very involved the last 6 years and always gives full attention and excellent support.’
‘Matheson have a highly effective and skilled Dispute Resolution team, who are able to astutely assess the art of the possible in respect of any litigation, whether the client is a potential or actual plaintiff, or defendant, as the case may be. In respect of a very important High Court action that the Dispute Resolution team took on our behalf against the FSPO, the team’s view of matters was invariably proven to be correct at each given stage of the litigation, even when the matter was appealed to the Court of Appeal by the FSPO.’
‘The team provided authoritative, readily-understandable advice, which inspired confidence in our company and reassurance in respect of our decision to commence proceedings against the State, a decision made further to Matheson’s advice, and one which was subsequently vindicated when we successfully defended the FSPO’s appeal in the Court of Appeal.’
‘I have dealt with April McClements and her team in respect of several litigations and highly sensitive disputes. April is able to read a litigation in a highly astute way, instilling confidence in her client’s decision to commence proceedings. April is a very friendly and engaging lawyer, who manages a given litigation from start to finish in a highly professional manner. April is not afraid to call out weaknesses that she may identify in a given case, but is able to adapt and plan for these so as to secure the likely success of the litigation as a whole, on the assumption that any such weaknesses are not fatal to the case.’
‘Karen Reynolds and her team have been supporting us through a particularly sensitive and bitterly-contested dispute, that we have been pulled into (through no fault of our own) between two third parties. Karen stepped into the breach on this one, and was able to cut through the “white noise” and ascertain exactly what was going in a calm and professional manner, all whilst taking a firm and no-nonsense approach to engagements with the third parties’ solicitors, in what must have been a very trying dispute to “unwind”. We are now approaching the “endgame” with a successful resolution in sight. Karen is a very effective litigator who can be relied upon to comprehensively and resolutely safeguard her client’s interests.’
‘For me, Connor Cassidy has been a standout individual. Very consistent and reliable. I have learned from him and his decisions around our cases. We know he is supported in the background by Julie Murphy O’Connor and are very grateful for that knowledge on our side.’
Key clients
Nordic Aviation Capital dac and associated entities
BOC Aviation Ireland Limited and associated entities
Avolon Aerospace Ltd and associated entities
Goshawk Aviation Limited and various companies associated with the above
Iveco Group N.V., CNH Industrial N.V. and Stellantis N.V
Mediahuis Ireland Group Limited (formerly Independent News and Media)
Opel Automobile GmbH, Vauxhall Motors Limited and Opel Ireland Limited (now Leeson Motors Limited) (all part of or related to the Stellantis Group)
Volkswagen Group Ireland Limited and Volkswagen Financial Services Ireland Limited (“Volkswagen”)
Philip Morris
Centric Health
Work highlights
- Advised Avolon Aircraft Leasing Limited, Nordic Aviation Capital DAC, BOC Aviation (Ireland) Limited, Goshawk Aviation Limited, in relation to four of six proceedings in Ireland in relation to irrecoverable aircraft in Russia.
- Defended Iveco Group N.V., CNH Industrial N.V. and Stellantis N.V in a significant number of High Court Irish claims following on the European Commission’s decision to fine truck producers €2.93bn for participating in a cartel.
- Advised Mediahuis Ireland Group (formerly Independent News and Media) on its defence and resolution of multiple sets of proceedings issued by high profile former senior executives, journalists and employees arising out of the ODCE and DPC Investigation into a data security incident and the subsequent inspection by High Court appointed inspectors to the company.
Ireland > Employment Tier 1
The employment practice at Matheson LLP acts for numerous major domestic and international clients across the technology, pharmaceutical and financial services sectors. Among the team’s specialisms are employment and benefits matters, with the practice having recently expanded its involvement in employment-related immigration and pension issues. The group is headed by Bryan Dunne, who specialises in cross-border employment investigations and litigation before the Irish civil courts and WRC. Geraldine Carr assists clients with workplace investigations and restructuring, while Russell Rochford focuses on issues arising at the intersection between employment and financial service regulatory laws. Crisis management expert Ailbhe Dennehy is known for her expertise in whistleblowing and termination of employment matters.Practice head(s):
Bryan Dunne
Other key lawyers:
Geraldine Carr; Russell Rochford; Ailbhe Dennehy; Tina O’Sullivan
Testimonials
‘The employment law team at Matheson is outstanding. From trainee to partner, everyone I have dealt with is not only experienced in their practice area but incredibly personable and professional – a great mix for a lawyer. The quality of their documents is excellent, and their turnaround times are impressive. The employment team have got their client strategy perfected – expertise coupled with incredible customer service skills.’
‘I don’t know what we would do without the Matheson team to support us in our issue. The team is always responsive, timely, effective and knowledgeable. If an emergency comes up, you can also rely someone on who will be available to help and answer us promptly.’
‘I want to shout out to Geraldine Carr. Geraldine has amazing business acumen, and she is extremely knowledgeable. She always helps us to find the right balance for any business decision. Plus, she is a joy to work with.’
‘One is the size and depth of their group – it’s a great strength. The other point is their breadth of experience and understanding of advising large employers in the financial services sector and the added dynamic of dealing with regulatory fitness and probity issues. This is a unique advantage that Matheson delivers to us in a trusted, knowledgeable way.’
‘Bryan Dunne – partner and Tina O’Sullivan – senior associate – Unwavering 5-star service from both. Their responsiveness, adaptability, tailored client-focused service, commerciality and consistent availability make them stand out from competitors. Both Bryan and Russell Rochford can interpret and relate advice and guidance to previous cases we had – knowing the client’s background is critical, and adapting to our style/commercial needs is key.’
‘Matheson is always extremely helpful. Tina O’Sullivan, in particular, is a pleasure to work with. She was willing to dive into any situation with our team and at times feel like an extension to our HR team.’
‘Russell Rochford and the entire employment team are key advisors to our business.’
‘Knowledge of many different areas – employment law, benefits, pension, tax etc. They understand their client and respond with a tailored approach that really responds to the business needs and goals.’
Key clients
Abbvie
Accenture
Adobe Inc
An Post
Analog Devices
Aramark
Aviva
Bain Capital Private Equity Europe LLP
Bank of Ireland
Bank of Montreal
BCP Asset Management
Bon Secours Mercy Health, Inc
CarGurus, Inc.
Chartered Accountants Ireland
Danske Bank
Deloitte Ireland LLP
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (formerly AWAS)
Dublin Airport Authority plc
Dyson
Ebay
Equinix Group
Everest Re
EY
Meta
FINCAD
Fireye
Fiserv
General Motors
Goldman Sachs
Hewlett Packard Enterprise
HP Enterprise
HP Inc
Water Wipes
JAS Worldwide Management Inc.
KPMG
Lloyds
L’Oreal
Macquarie Capital
McAfee
MetLife
Michael Kors
Nestle
Norwegian Air
OpenTable
Paypal
PepsiCo
Radisson Hotels International Inc. t/a Carlson Hospitality Worldwide
Reddit, Inc
SAP
Shire
SonicWall
Stripe
Tokyo Electron
Uber
UnitedHealth Group
Universal Studios
UniCredit
Vertex Inc.
Wells Fargo
WeWork
Wordplay
Xerox
Zendesk
ZeroChaos (Europe) Limited
Zoom Video Communications, Inc.
3M
Work highlights
- Represented a large multinational medical devices company in successfully defending three penalisation claims brought by a former employee.
- Advised a global tech organisation on a complex, sensitive and contentious collective redundancy process.
- Represented a global tech company in a dismissal matter challenged by a senior executive who sought to restrain dismissal on the grounds of redundancy by threatening a whistleblowing injunction before the Circuit Court.
Ireland > Energy and natural resources Tier 1
Matheson LLP's practice stands out for its vast expertise in advising foreign and domestic clients on all areas of the energy sector, including electricity projects. The team has in-depth knowledge of the renewable energy regulatory framework, onshore and offshore wind projects, and corporate PPA and data centre operations. The practice is headed by Garret Farrelly, who has extensive experience handling renewable energy innovation and compliance, having worked on wind, solar, and hydro energy projects. Nicola Dunleavy is particularly adept at handling energy and utility disputes, along with infrastructure and PPP projects. Conor Blennerhassett is active on project financing transactions. Seán Scally left the firm in early 2024.Practice head(s):
Garret Farrelly
Other key lawyers:
Nicola Dunleavy; Owen Collins; Conor Blennerhassett
Testimonials
‘Exceptional team, extremely capable and always results orientated.’
‘Our experience with Matheson has been excellent. Their availability, engagement, and quality of partners and associates are fantastic. We will work with Matheson in any future project for renewable energy in Ireland.’
‘The Matheson team was able to deliver fast and top-notch work in a challenging deal environment for a competitive international bidding process involving offshore wind assets. They worked closely with our teams and provided seamless input as part of the broader legal team covering multiple jurisdictions. The team knows and abides by high international standards of quality and service. ’
‘We worked closely with Garret Farrelly and his team, who provided outstanding work and a genuinely enjoyable collaboration, showcasing not only strong legal knowledge relating to Ireland and the specific sector at hand but also a deep embeddedness in the business environment and regulatory context.’
‘Matheson’s energy and natural resources team is characterised by their commercial awareness, excellent technical knowledge, and responsiveness. They consistently provide valuable legal advice and support promptly and have an unrivalled understanding of their clients’ needs.’
‘Garret Farrelly and Owen Collins are our go-to solicitors for all matters relating to the energy sector. They are market leaders as regards policy and regulatory knowledge, and are always prompt with their commercially-focused advice.’
‘Team working with a mix of capabilities that makes them very efficient in problem-solving.’
‘Technical profile, flexible in adapting their strategy depending on the counterparty.’
Key clients
Allianz Capital Partners
Amarenco
AMP Capital Investors
An Post
Antin Infrastructure
Aramark Corporation
Aviva Investors
AXA Master Partners in Infrastructure Equity 1 SA
Axpo
BASF
BBVA
BL Energy Ventures Ltd
Bord na Móna
Boston Scientific
Brookfield Multiplex Construction
Burmeister & Wain Scandinavian Contractor A/S
Capital Dynamics
Caterpillar Inc
Cenergise
CGN Europe Energy
Close Brothers
CNOOC Petroleum
Coillte Teoranta
Commission for Regulation of Utilities
Credit Agricole
Crowley Carbon
Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications
DNB Bank ASA
Dragados
Drogheda Port Company
Dublin Waste to Energy
DZ Bank
e|net
Ecopower Limited
EDF Renewables Ireland Limited
EirGrid Interconnector DAC
EirGrid plc
ElectroRoute
Encavis
Energia Renewables ROI Limited
EngineNode Limited
Equinix
Erova Energy
Export Development Canada
First Quantum Minerals Limited
First Reserve (part of Blackrock)
Flogas
Fred Olsen Renewables
FuturEnergy Ireland
GE Capital
General Electric Company
GLIL Infrastructure LLP
GMC Utilities Group Limited
Hamburg Commercial Bank
Hanwha Corporation
Helios Technology Ltd
Hess LNG
Hewlett-Packard
Highfield Solar
IB Vogt GmbH
Iberdrola
Indaver Ireland Limited
ING Bank
Inis Offshore
Intesa Sanpaolo
Iridium Concesiones de Infrastructuras, S.A.
Irving Oil Ltd
JCD Group
JJ Rhatigan Unlimited Company
John Laing
John Sisk & Son Limited
Kajima Partnerships
KFW IPEX-Bank
Landis + Gyr
Liffey Meats
Lufthansa Cargo AG
Macquarie
Mainstream Renewable Power Limited
Metka-Egn Limited
Microsoft Corporation
MUFG Bank
Natwest Markets PLC
Nexen Energy ULC
Nexen Petroleum UK Ltd
NFE Management LLC
NGET/SPT Upgrades Limited (part of National Grid)
Ocean Winds Ireland Limited
Octopus Renewables
OHLA
Ørsted (formerly Brookfield Renewable Ireland Limited)
Partners Group (UK) Ltd
Pat Smith Engineering Limited t/a PSE Power
Rabobank
Ratio Petroleum Ltd
Real Assets Investment Management
Roche Diagnostics Limited
Roscommon County Council
Rubicon Capital Advisors
Sacyr
Saorgus Energy Limited
Shannon LNG
Sisk Group
Smart Wires, Inc
Smartest Energy Ltd
SMBC
SSE plc
Statkraft Ireland
STEAG Solar Energy Solutions
Storm Management NV
Terraform Power Inc
Tetra Communications Ireland
The Go-Ahead Group plc
The Ireland Strategic Investment Fund
TotalEnergies Renewables SAS
Tynagh Energy Limited
Ulster Bank
Vermilion Energy Inc
Warburg Pincus
Woodside Energy
Zenith Energy
Work highlights
- Advised Microsoft on the drafting and negotiation of corporate power purchase agreements with developers Energia, Statkraft and Power Capital.
- Advised Bord na Móna on all aspects of their flagship energy developments in Ireland.
- Advised DECC on the implementation of the first renewable electricity support scheme (RESS 1), including the drafting of the terms and conditions for RESS 1.
Ireland > EU and competition Tier 1
Matheson LLP has a fully rounded EU and competition practice, driven by a fervent pipeline of merger control matters, competition investigations, state aid cases, and competition litigation, including the headline trucks case. The team has worked on a series of Phase 2 merger assessments by the CCPC and is especially noted for media sector merger cases. It has landed key roles in all recent CCPC market investigations, including motor insurance, ticketing and fuel price. The team features three experienced partners including department head Niall Collins, an experienced figure in merger control, having practised in both London and Dublin. Kate McKenna and Calum Warren are also highly rated partners, with extensive experience in and outside Ireland. Simon Shinkwin is a rising star.Practice head(s):
Niall Collins
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent alignment with in-house team with sound practical advice. In-depth knowledge of the regulator. Excellent response times and availability. Very good to deal with. ’
‘Kate McKenna is excellent. Knowledge is excellent, but also applies it in a very practical way that can be applied within the business. Calum Warren is excellent, with very timely turnarounds on advice. Gives sound, workable solutions.’
‘Niall Collins is the leading antitrust lawyer in Ireland at the moment. Clients really like him, he is easy to work with and very knowledgeable of the Irish regime. Calum Warren is a rising star in the team, he is a very solid pair of hands for Irish merger control matters.’
‘Niall Collins is an excellent competition partner. He provides commercial and pragmatic advice and takes initiative in anticipating client needs.’
‘Simon Shinkwin is an exceptional associate who is thorough, responsive and a pleasure to work with.’
‘The Matheson team has a strong reputation for antitrust matters and is also now providing good advice relating to the imminent Irish foreign investment screening regime. They are our go-to firm for advice on these matters. Other Irish law firms don’t offer the same bench strength or international perspectives in these matters.’
‘Calum Warren has worked in Brussels, the UK and Dublin, all in the top competition firms and within the European Commission and his breadth of experience is exceptional. I have seen him engage with competition enforcers in the UK, Ireland and from the European Commission and he is highly respected. Kate McKenna and Niall Collins are also excellent.’
‘Over the last several years Matheson has invested in the next generation of top-tier competition lawyers and their practice is now the gold standard, handling the most critical and complex cases in Ireland. It’s a diverse team with unmatched contacts with enforcers across Europe.’
Key clients
Bauer Media Group
Blackrock Health
CLdN CARGO Ireland
Gilead
Grain Management
Insurance Ireland
Le Creuset
Macquarie
MTM Packaging
Smurfit Kappa Group
Ticketmaster
Adevinta
AMP Capital
Bank of Ireland
Three Ireland (and its parent CK Hutchison)
Link Group
Parma Investments Limited, and its parent Goodman Group
Daily Mail / DMGT plc
Discovery
Enterprise Ireland
ASL Aviation
Brokers Ireland
Orpea S.A
Ornua
Speed Fibre Group (enet, Airspeed and Magnet) and its parent AMP Capital
SSE
Irish Distillers and its parent, Pernod Ricard
AIB
An Post
Fexco
Abtran
Aramark
Bord Na Mona
Boskalis
College Proteins
Commercial Mushrooms Producers Co-Operative Society (CMP)
Carr Communications
Chapel Gate
Commscope
Discovery
Department for Energy
daa plc
Disney
Energia
FitBit
Top Oil
JPI Media plc
Microsoft
Monument Re
Monaghan Mushrooms
Newsbrands
Nicholl (Fuel Oils) Ltd
Nomad Foods
Oaktree
Opel
Post Office Limited
Saint Gobain
Sky Ireland
Sport Ireland
TINE
TripActions
Irish Life
Waystone (Ireland) Ltd
Iveco SpA
Linnaeus Veterinary Ireland Ltd
Vermilion Energy Inc
Vodafone Ireland Ltd
Worldwide Flight Services (WFS)
Carne Global Financial Services Ltd
Royal Bank of Canada
Supersapiens
Shares.io
Alibaba.com
Aer-Rianta International cpt
Fresenius Medical Care (Ireland) Ltd
Wellster Healthtech Group GmbH
Work highlights
- Advised Bank of Ireland on its acquisition of the Irish assets of the Belgian bank KBC, which is leaving the Irish market.
- Advised Bauer Media Audio, Europe’s leading commercial radio and audio operator and part of Europe’s largest privately owned media conglomerate Bauer Media Group, on a series of acquisitions in the media sector to extend its leading position in Ireland.
- Advised daa plc on several complex regulatory issues, including an ongoing High Court litigation against the regulator, Aer Lingus and Ryanair regarding airport charges.
Ireland > Fintech Tier 1
Matheson LLP fields a ‘market-leading team with superb regulatory insights‘ in the fintech sector, which acts for a host of major international fintechs. The team has significant expertise in advising such clients in the virtual assets space and frequently advises on the authorisation of e-money institutions and virtual asset providers, and it is also skilled in assisting financial services clients with tech and outsourcing projects. Joe Beashel, who is an ‘expert in the field‘ of payments and e-money, heads the financial institutions group, where Ian O’Mara, who was promoted to partner in January 2023, and Louise Dobbyn are also key contacts. Anne-Marie Bohan leads the tech and innovation group.Practice head(s):
Joe Beashel; Anne-Marie Bohan
Other key lawyers:
Ian O’Mara; Louise Dobbyn; Megan Fennell; Nicole Ward; Ciarán Moloney
Testimonials
‘Joe Beashel is very commercial, very practical and very knowledgeable.’
‘Ian O’Mara shows excellent attention-to-detail. He is very clear in his thinking and analysis, and his advice is always on point.’
‘Market-leading team with superb regulatory insights.’
‘Joe Beashel is a market leader – he is constantly responsive and understands the need to balance business need with regulatory expectations.’
‘The team has an unrivalled knowledge of the payments industry, European legislation and its transposition into Irish law. They understand what the Irish regulators are looking for and help clients create pragmatic solutions that align with those expectations.’
‘Ian O’Mara, Joe Beashel and Megan Fennell provide commercially pragmatic advice, are very responsible and we know that we can rely on them to provide sound advice and an excellent work product. As a client conscious about costs, they also manage to deliver a first-rate product at brilliant value.’
‘Ian O’Mara is a first-class lawyer and his knowledge of Irish and European law is second-to-none. Joe Beashel is a crystal ball providing insight into exactly what the Irish regulators look for. Megan Fennell is an exceptional lawyer working well above her current seniority. Collectively, they are the best partners our business could ask for.’
‘Joe Beashel is an expert in his field. No other partner in the industry has such deep sectoral knowledge and insights.’
Key clients
Gemini
MoonPay
Western Union
An Post
Meta
myPOS
Paymentsense/Dojo
Work highlights
- Advised MoonPay Technology Services Limited on its successful registration as a virtual asset service provider by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Ireland > Healthcare and life sciences Tier 1
Matheson LLP is a major force in life sciences transactions, including M&A and restructurings, along with healthcare litigation and regulatory matters. It has advised clients on some of the largest life sciences deals of recent years, such as representing Horizon Therapeutics in the proposed $28bn acquisition by Pillartree (a wholly owned subsidiary of Amgen), implemented as an Irish High Court-sanctioned scheme of arrangement. It has defended clients in a series of cases linked to the CervicalCheck scandal, along with other headline healthcare cases. Rebecca Ryan is head of healthcare, specialising in medical negligence and clinical malpractice. Kate McKenna is noted for life sciences regulatory matters and David Fitzgibbon is a leader in life sciences M&A. Emma Doherty is key for corporate governance in both life sciences and healthcare. John Coary was recently promoted to partner.Practice head(s):
Rebecca Ryan; Emma Doherty; Kate McKenna
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Rebecca Ryan is exceptional. She offers clear, practical advice, is very responsive and a pleasure to work with.’
‘Large, experienced, professional and highly motivated team, who provide high quality work to agreed timescales and deadlines. Very professional in all communications. Vast knowledge of regulation, statute and case law in relevant area, which informs all advice given, which is always carefully considered and comprehensive in nature.’
‘Very responsive, knowledgeable, approachable. Always willing to go above and beyond in their service and advice. Always clear in the scope of their instructions.’
‘John Coary – efficient, quick, available, understood quickly what we needed.’
Ireland > Insolvency and corporate restructuring Tier 1
Matheson LLP is a significant force in contentious and non-contentious corporate restructuring and insolvency. The firm is close to a number of key insolvency practitioners, along with major creditors, investment funds and distressed investors. It has continued to represent clients in headline examinerships, liquidations and out of court rescue processes; this includes acting for an ad hoc committee of holders of guaranteed unsecured notes in connection with the Mallinckrodt Chapter 11 proceedings and subsequent examinership. Tony O’Grady is at the pinnacle of the market, with Brendan Colgan and Julie Murphy-O’Connor also having excellent reputations. Kevin Gahan has a blossoming reputation and is very much amongst the team’s ‘stand out performers‘.Practice head(s):
Julie Murphy-O’Connor; Brendan Colgan; Tony O’Grady
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very experienced team. Large practice depth to call upon.’
‘Kevin Gahan, Tony O’Grady and Brendan Colgan – all standout performers.’
‘Matheson has what appears to me to be the largest and best international legal practice in Ireland, it therefore has some of the best lawyers and great depth and size to its practice.’
‘Tony O’Grady, Julie Murphy O’Connor, Brendan Colgan and Kevin Gahan are stand out insolvency and litigation partners who are very clued in, reliable and knowledgeable. They have an ability to cut through complexity and achieve good outcomes.’
‘Excellent, very commercial, pragmatic and bring solutions to the table.’
‘Brendan Colgan is a leading insolvency lawyer in the Irish market, always available to advise on tricky situations with commercially minded solutions.’
Key clients
PWC
EY
KPMG
Deloitte
Grant Thornton
BDO
Kroll
Mazars
(Azets Ireland) Baker Tilly
RSM
Evelyn Partners
Russell Brennan Keane
McStay Luby
Goldman Sachs
CarVal Investors
Oaktree
Bank of Ireland
AIB
KBC Bank Ireland
Interpath Advisory
Teneo
Work highlights
- Advised an ad hoc committee of holders of guaranteed unsecured notes in respect of the Mallinckrodt chapter 11 and subsequent examinership.
- Advised Vevan Unlimited Company on its successful shareholder-led petition to appoint Kieran Wallace of Interpath Advisory as examiner to Barryroe Offshore Energy plc.
- Advised Shane McCarthy of KPMG as examiner of the Silverpail Group.
Ireland > Insurance Tier 1
Matheson LLP continues to stand out for its experience and expertise in corporate insurance, including M&A, portfolio transfers, corporate governance and regulatory matters. Along with its strong connections to major insurers and reinsurers, the firm has also landed a sizeable book of business from insurance intermediaries, particularly in relation to regulatory advice. It has achieved further growth in key areas such as sanctions and ESG. The firm has expanded its ranks at partner level over the last three years, showcasing the strength of its practice. Darren Maher is a leading figure in the corporate insurance field, while Gráinne Callanan provides further senior expertise in corporate and regulatory insurance. Elaine Long is another key partner in corporate insurance. April McClements leads the insurance disputes team, which has made a further impact in aviation insurance cases, subrogation claims and COVID-19 business interruption. Insurance disputes specialist Aisling Kavanagh was promoted to partner in 2023.Practice head(s):
Darren Maher
Other key lawyers:
Elaine Long; April McClements; Gráinne Callanan; Aisling Kavanagh; Sharon Daly; Julie Murphy-O’Connor; Karen Reynolds; Angela Brennan; Kieran O’Sullivan; Catherine MacFarlane
Testimonials
‘Matheson has a great people-focused culture that is very beneficial to the client experience. They have knowledgeable, insightful people who are passionate about what they do and that reflects in their dedication to their clients.’
‘I deal mainly with Grainne Callanan and have done so for a number of years. Grainne is very knowledgeable and has extensive experience of the end-to-end regulatory experience for insurance. She brings that knowledge and experience to bear in a very practical and client-focused manner, which has always yielded excellent results.’
‘Kieran O’Sullivan, streets ahead of the rest in the market. Understands client’s needs and keeps the client well informed during an engagement. His knowledge of the insurance sector is second to none.’
‘Darren Maher is a truly exceptional lawyer. Darren is an extremely talented communicator with an invaluable ability to distil complex matters for his clients. Darren is a great listener and is able to understand difficult problems rapidly with little background and then instantly advise us on how to manage these problems. Every conversation with Darren Maher adds value to our business. Catherine MacFarlane is an excellent and precise lawyer. Catherine manages all of our complex wording and contract work in a highly effective manner. Catherine has a great ability to synthesise complex requests and produce high quality work reflecting our instructions.’
‘Darren Maher – regulatory knowledge and connection to the market. April McClements – knowledge and collaborative approach. Karen Reynolds – very commercial, solutions-focused.’
‘Gráinne Callanan has handled several S.13 IPTs for our company and she has done so in a highly-effective and professional way, ensuring that all legal requirements are addressed, every step of the way. Gráinne has an intuitive understanding of our business and the importance of these portfolio transfers to us, and she expertly managed each portfolio transfer for us in a clear and logical manner, unfailingly making herself available to us to answer any and all queries that we have had in a courteous and friendly way. Nothing phased Gráinne and she provided a calm, authoritative presence to guide us through the whole process.’
‘Gráinne Callanan – passionate about successful delivery. Incredible stamina and tenacity. 100% record of success, even under the seemingly impossible circumstances of one particular insurance business transformation. All backed up with exceptional technical knowledge and experience. She has the ability to identify and exhaust all possible counter arguments and to foresee and forestall them before they amount to real issues.’
‘April McClements – she is structured, clear and cooperative with a deep understanding of the needs of the client; focused and goal oriented. Darren Maher – very reasonable and pragmatic with deep understanding of the relevant laws and regulations. Distinguished by his encyclopaedic knowledge, spiced with capability of getting all necessary information and connections in insurance business. Karen Reynolds – she is an excellent communicator with a specific ability to succinctly and clearly break down complex legal issues and challenges. It’s a great pleasure to work with her, as she is extremely attentive to details and constantly instils confidence in the process of finding the best result.’
Key clients
AmTrust International Underwriters DAC
Aon Group
Aviva
Companjon
Compre Holdings Limited
Ecclesiastical Insurance Office PLC
FBD Insurance PLC
Fidelis Insurance Holdings Limited
Legal and General
Life Company Consolidation Group (Utmost)
Mapfre Asistencia Compania Internacional de Seguros y Reaseguros S.A.
Monument Assurance DAC
PartnerRe Ireland Insurance DAC
Royal London
Travelers Companies, Inc.
United Health Group Inc.
Utmost Ireland DAC
Work highlights
- Acted for four of the six aircraft lessors who have brought proceedings against their insurers in Ireland relating to coverage for claims in relation to irrecoverable aircraft in Russia.
- Acted for Perrigo in a high-value coverage dispute relating to 30+ significant securities class actions under its D&O towers for a number of policy periods.
- Advised various Opel and Vauxhall companies (now owned by Stellantis) on their defence of highly contentious, complex, high-value, multi-party litigation arising from the fire in Douglas Village Shopping Centre carpark on 31 August 2019.
Ireland > Investment funds Tier 1
Matheson LLP has the largest market share by assets under management. The group advises more than 1,200 Irish-domiciled funds, seven of the top 10 global promoters of Irish funds, and eight of the top 10 US asset managers. It is widely noted for representing clients in market firsts, such as the first Irish ETFs to track Paris-aligned benchmarks. The team is also at the forefront of SFDR and ESG-related funds. Tara Doyle is a leading figure in the market and is widely recognised for her leadership in ESG matters and investment limited partnerships. Dualta Counihan has an outstanding reputation, along with Shay Lydon and Catriona Cole.Practice head(s):
Tara Doyle
Other key lawyers:
Dualta Counihan; Shay Lydon; Philip Lovegrove; Michelle Ridge; Liam Collins; Barry O’Connor; Catriona Cole; Donal O’Byrne; Anthony Gaskin; Eunan Hession; Shane Kennedy
Testimonials
‘Team possesses excellent industry knowledge, is responsive, and delivers timely and efficient advice and work product.’
‘Barry O’Connor and Shane Kennedy have been trusted and reliable advisors with deep sector expertise as well as knowledge of our group. They continue to provide excellent advice with great attitude.’
‘Very professional, strong and reliable practice with very good depth. Can seamlessly interchange where needed between different partners and lawyers. Very commercial and highly rated throughout our business.’
‘Their ability and willingness to listen, advise, adapt and react when you most need them is notable. They are also very pragmatic and commercial. Barry O’Connor has an amazing ability to break down and advise on the most complex of areas. ’
‘Exceptional market knowledge and technical ability; highly commercial approach; longevity of key partners; depth of team; transparent billing and good value for money; strong capabilities across related practices (e.g. tax, regulatory, structured finance).’
‘Dualta Counihan’s technical ability, market knowledge and commercial insights are unsurpassed, and he always makes himself available. Anthony Gaskin has strong technical ability, good market knowledge, makes himself available whenever needed, and has an exemplary work ethic.’
‘The team is proactive in their support.’
‘Shay Lydon has unparalleled technical knowledge and applies it to achieve efficient and commercial client outcomes. Liam Collins is a true partner to the team. He anticipates our requirements, drives our matters forward and adds value at every stage.’
Key clients
Goldman Sachs
BlackRock
Morgan Stanley
Bank of America Merrill Lynch
Credit Suisse
Amundi
JP Morgan
HPS Partners
Bank of New York Mellon
Invesco
Man Group
SEI
HSBC
State Street Global Advisors
Eaton Vance
Citigroup
Neuberger Berman
Aberdeen Standard Investments
Barings
Charles Schwab
Beechbrook
Appian
Rockefeller
White Oak
Funding Circle
Aspect Capital
Poplar Forest Capital
Aegon Asset Management
Pantheon
Connor
Clark & Lunn
ILA Capital
Eagle Capital
Aventicum
Primestone
Brummer
Lynx
RiverRock Asset Management LLC
Marsham Investment Management LLP
Norselab
Fidelity International
First Sentier Investors
Axonic
Brasil Warrant
Future Value Capital LLP
ING Solutions Investment Management
Aon Securities LLC
Principal Global Investors
Manulife Investment Management
Guardian Capital
Franklin Templeton
Varde Partners
Hudson Bay
REQ Capital
Seior Capital
Waterland
Baron Capital
Pacific Capital Partners
Byron Capital
Royalty Pharma
STANLIB Investments
Ares
AXA Real Estate Investment Management
Principal Global
Prescient
Manulife Investment Management
Veritas Asset Management
Seilern International AG
Pinebridge
Work highlights
- Advised Fidelity International in respect of the establishment of six new thematic ETF sub-funds of Fidelity UCITS ICAV.
- Worked with Kirkland & Ellis and De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek to advise Waterland on the establishment, and closing, of its ninth institutional flagship fund, alongside a new continuation fund which will make minority investments in a select number of portfolio companies once exited.
- Advised Man Group on all aspects of the migration of a Cayman Island domiciled alternative investment fund to Ireland as a QIAIF structured as an ICAV.
Ireland > Media and entertainment Tier 1
The team at Matheson LLP advises media and broadcasting companies and regulatory and statutory bodies on the full array of matters in the film, television and digital media sectors. The group combines its entertainment law expertise with the strength of its commercial litigation and dispute resolution team to provide clients with comprehensive defamation and privacy law advice. Ruth Hunter, who advises on a range of deals, negotiations and the drafting of actors', directors', production and distribution agreements, co-heads the practice with litigation expert Michael Byrne, who regularly represents clients in copyright infringement and defamation matters.Practice head(s):
Ruth Hunter; Michael Byrne
Testimonials
‘The media and entertainment team is very responsive. They collaborate with the client to successfully resolve any issues and get the project closed.’
‘Ruth Hunter has a wealth of experience tailored to the project at hand. She is a pleasure to work with.’
‘Their expertise in media law in Ireland is perfect.’
‘Roisin Walsh and Michael Byrne have been responsive, supportive and excellent at explaining the innermost workings of the Irish legal system to us.’
‘The team we work with has specialist knowledge in the area of online platforms. They have the necessary knowledge and expertise in the relevant legal areas related to our work.’
‘Michael Byrne takes a practical approach. I like his type of communication, which is to the point and concise – not too much unnecessary legal jargon.’
Key clients
Subotica Limited
Treasure Entertainment Limited
Keeper Pictures Limited
Discord
Ireland > Planning and environment Tier 1
Matheson LLP continues to handle the full range of contentious and non-contentious environmental law matters, defending clients against regulatory prosecutions and advising on environmental risks and liabilities arising from large-scale infrastructure projects. Practice head Nicola Dunleavy SC is the go-to advisor for clients seeking advice on the climate change and planning and environmental aspects of new projects. Recently promoted partner Ruadhán Kenny regularly represents clients in judicial review proceedings, while Jill Hurley provides able assistance with planning applications.Practice head(s):
Nicola Dunleavy SC
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘What stands out is the people, their knowledge and how approachable they are.’
‘Nicola Dunleavy SC is an expert in this field. She is always available and will resolve an issue. She approaches a matter from the outset by setting out timelines to meet expectations. She keeps you informed of recent case law.’
‘The team can navigate complex and novel planning and environmental legal issues while providing business-focused legal advice.’
‘Nicola Dunleavy SC is a tenacious lawyer with a commitment to excellence. Ruadhán Kenny and the team are diligent and thorough, offering practical and commercially focused legal advice. He has a clear understanding of clients’ needs.’
‘Matheson LLP have an extremely competent, responsive and reliable planning and environment legal team. They communicate very well with the client, and at all times, you feel you are in capable hands.’
‘Nicola Dunleavy SC is an impressive and very knowledgeable team leader and a skilled communicator. Similarly, Ruadhán Kenny impresses with his knowledge and ability to quickly understand the client’s perspective. Both individuals mentioned provide exceptional access and are exceptionally committed to the client.’
‘Matheson has a breadth and depth of knowledge and skill. They advise pragmatically, and explore how to achieve the client’s aims.’
‘Nicola Dunleavy SC has powerful knowledge and understanding and a great ability for objective analysis and advice.’
Key clients
Mowi Ireland
Ecopower Ireland
Work highlights
- Acting for Mowi Ireland in three separate sets of judicial review proceedings brought by Inland Fisheries Ireland, Salmon Watch Ireland and Peter Sweetman against the grant of an aquaculture licence and a foreshore licence to the client for a site in Co Cork.
- Acted for Ecopower in judicial review proceedings concerning an amending permission for the Knocknamona wind farm.
Ireland > Projects and PPP Tier 1
Matheson LLP is frequently called upon by some of the largest domestic and international lenders and developers for advice on project financing and development in Ireland. The team handles projects across a variety of sectors, including education, healthcare, transport, energy, and telecoms. Practice head Garret Farrelly has extensive experience of advising some of the world’s largest financial institutions on complex infrastructure projects, while Rhona Henry specialises in project re-financing transactions. Conor Blennerhassett has significant expertise in offshore infrastructure, while Alison Bearpark and Owen Collins are other key contacts.Practice head(s):
Garret Farrelly
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Matheson team was able to deliver fast and top-notch work in a challenging deal environment. They worked closely with our teams and provided seamless input as part of the broader legal team covering multiple jurisdictions. The team knows and abides by high international standards of quality and service.’
‘We worked closely with Garret Farrelly and his team, who provided outstanding work and a genuinely enjoyable collaboration, showcasing strong legal knowledge relating to Ireland and the specific sector at hand but also deep embeddedness in the business environment and regulatory context.’
‘Matheson has a rich breadth and depth in their team, each of whom can contribute towards the overall project.’
‘Conor Blennerhassett is engaging, responsive and always makes himself available. Garret Farrelly provides calmness and security.’
‘Conor Blennerhassett’s dedication to this relationship and deal is impressive. He is always available and front and centre on all communication.’
‘Conor Blennerhassett is very responsive and always provides succinct and practical responses in a timely manner.’
‘The team’s strengths include flexible billing and partner input that is front and centre, and they are established in local markets with deep relationships.’
Key clients
Abbott
ACS Group
Air Liquide, SA
Amarenco
Allianz Capital Partners
Allied Irish Banks p.l.c.
AMP Capital Partners
Aramark Corporation
Astellas
Asterion Industrial
Aviva Investors
Amarenco
BBVA
Berkshire Hathaway
BL Energy Ventures Limited
Bord na Móna
Brookfield Multiplex Construction Europe Limited
Brookfield Renewable Ireland Limited
Burmeister & Wain Scandinavian Contractor A / S
Cadent Gas Limited
Capital Dynamics
Caterpillar Inc.
CGNEE
Clonmont Developments Limited
Close Brothers Ltd
Coillte
Commission for Regulation of Utilities
Credit Agricole
CRRC Qingdao Sifang Co., Limited
DNB Bank ASA
Dragados S.A.
Drogheda Port Company
Dromash Holdings Ltd
DZ Bank
e|net
EDF Renewables
EirGrid plc
Exolum Corporation, SA
Export Development Canada
Exxon Mobil
FCC Construcción, S.A.
First Reserve
First Quantum Minerals Limited
Fred. Olsen Renewables
General Electric Company
GE Capital
GLIL Infrastructure LLP
Go Ahead Group
GMC Utilities Group Limited
Greencoat Renewables plc
Hamburg Commercial Bank
Hanwha Energy Corporation
Hanwha Q Cells GmbH
Helios Technology Ltd
Hess LNG
Hewlett-Packard
Hines
Hones/APG ICAV
HSBC Bank plc
Indaver Ireland Limited
ING Bank
Intesa Sanpaolo
Iridium Concesiones de Infraestructuras, S.A.
Irving Oil Ltd
JCD Group
JJ Rhatigan Unlimited Company
John Laing
John Sisk & Son Limited/Sisk Group
JP Morgan (Dublin)
Kajima Partnerships
Keolis
KFW IPEX-Bank
Liffey Meats
Landis + Gyr
Lufthansa Cargo AG
Macquarie Capital/Macquarie Corporate Holdings Pty Limited (UK Branch)
Macquarie Asset Management/Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets
Microsoft Corporation
Mitsui & Co Ltd
MUFG Bank
National Treasury Management Agency
Naturgy Ltd
Nexen Energy ULC
NFE Management LLC
NGET/SPT Upgrades Limited
Ocean Winds
Octopus Renewables
OHLA
Ørsted
Partners Group (UK) Ltd.
Pat Smith Engineering Limited T/A PSE Power
Plenary Europe Limited
Rabobank
Ratio Petroleum Limited
Roche Diagnostics Limited
Roscommon County Council
Rubicon Infrastructure Advisers/GMC Utilities
Sacyr
Saorgus Energy Limited
Shannon LNG Ltd
Smart Wires, Inc
Smartest Energy Ltd
SMBC
SSE plc
Statkraft Ireland Ltd
Storm Management N.V.
TerraForm Power Inc
Tetra Communications Ireland
Temporis Capital
The Carbon and Energy Fund
The Ireland Strategic Investment Fund
The Renewables Infrastructure Group Ltd
Tynagh Energy Limited
Vermilion Energy, Inc
Warburg Pincus
William Grant & Sons Ltd
Woodside Energy Ltd
Zenith Energy
Ulster Bank
3i Investments plc
Work highlights
- Advised Drogheda Port Company on the development of a new deep-water multi-modal port near Balbriggan, North Dublin.
- Advised Plenary Europe Limited on its bid for the Social Housing Bundle 3 PPP.
- Advised Ocean Winds and Bord na Móna on the development of the Celtic Horizon and Réalt na Mara offshore wind projects, as part of the second phase of offshore wind development in Ireland.
Ireland > Public sector Tier 1
Matheson LLP houses a wide-ranging public law practice which counts a broad array of state and semi-state bodies, government departments and private sector companies among its clients. The team has significant expertise in contentious matters, including judicial reviews and statutory investigations and appeals, and also stands out for its strengths in energy regulatory issues, the procurement and development of public infrastructure projects, and freedom of information law. The practice is led by litigation-focused Michael Byrne, Nicola Dunleavy, whose extensive practice includes planning and environmental law, Garret Farrelly, a key name in the energy sector, and state aid and public procurement specialist Kate McKenna.Practice head(s):
Michael Byrne; Nicola Dunleavy; Garret Farrelly; Kate McKenna
Other key lawyers:
Eltin Ryle
Testimonials
‘The team are very strong on data protection and potential defamation liabilities. Sound judgement on political sensitivities around certain pieces of complex work.’
‘We had a very good experience with Eltin Ryle – excellent follow up and good advice.’
Key clients
Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment (DECC)
Drogheda Port Company
Laois County Council
Enterprise Ireland
Work highlights
- Advising the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications on the second onshore and first offshore auction for the provision of the renewable electricity support scheme (RESS).
Ireland > Real estate Tier 1
Matheson LLP‘s real estate practice is widely recognised for its strength in advising developers and occupiers on high-profile sales, acquisitions and leasing deals (including forward-funded transactions). In addition to its standout expertise in the data centre sector, the team has experience in matters across the office, retail, industrial and logistics, and residential spheres. Sally Anne Stone was promoted to head of the commercial real estate department in January 2023, overseeing a sizeable team which also includes Brian Doran and Leonie Dunne, who jointly lead the new homes and development land group, the ‘excellent‘ Karen Sheil, Cillian O’Boyle, Hilda Wrixon, who was promoted to partner in January 2023, and Cork-based Laura James.Practice head(s):
Sally Anne Stone
Other key lawyers:
Brian Doran; Karen Sheil; Leonie Dunne; Cillian O’Boyle; Hilda Wrixon; Laura James; Jennifer O’Shea
Testimonials
‘Cillian O’Boyle in the real estate team has a commercial focus, understanding what is deliverable while ensuring clients’ positions are always protected. His diligence post transaction means that focus is maintained on any post-closing items to be satisfied.’
‘A one-team collaborative approach.’
‘Karen Shiel is an excellent lawyer. She is really client centric and anticipates potential issues before they are raised as issues. She has also a very hands-on approach and has really good attention to detail. ’
‘Matheson has in-depth knowledge regarding real estate. Their expertise was critical in negotiating key terms and conditions. The individuals within the real estate practice were all professional and knowledgeable.’
‘The attitude, personable nature and industry knowledge at partner level and senior associate level is excellent. The team’s strength is certainly their industry knowledge, willingness to understand exactly what the client needs and also their ability to set realistic deadlines to allow themselves to provide quality advice. The team also make themselves available as and when needed at short notice, which is greatly appreciated as urgent, time-sensitive matters arise.’
‘Brian Doran’s guidance is exceptional – he is acutely aware of clients’ business needs and provides invaluable advice. With his team he delivers in the highest-quality legal service in Dublin.’
‘Sally Anne Stone is an expert in exceeding clients’ expectations and in problem solving. Laura James is very efficient in her dealings with clients and is particularly good with international clients who are not familiar with the market.’
‘Sally Anne Stone is one of the best lawyers in Dublin.’
Key clients
Tirlán Limited (previously known as Glanbia Ireland DAC)
BoyleSports
Surplus Property Soluctions
Arxada
PVR Invest
Eirgrid
Energia
Aviva Life & Pensions Ireland DAC (Property Division)
Workday
An Post
McGarrell Reilly Homes
CA Ventures
Grant Thornton
Bank of Ireland
Allied Irish Banks, p.l.c.
Equinix
Kennedy Wilson
JCD Group
Fiserv, Inc
Chartered Land
Goldman Sachs
Trinity College Dublin
EirGrid PLC
JP Morgan
Datadog
Verizon
Waystone
Airbnb
State Street
Zendesk
Oxley Holdings
LVMH
Tokyo Electron
Henkel
Three/Hutch Whampoa
Stryker
Steris
SAP
Irish Life
Irish Distillers/Pernod Ricard
Adobe
Park Developments Group
Värde Partners
DekaBank Deutsche Girozentrale
Tudor Homes
Bord na Móna
EDF Energy Renewables
Glenveagh Homes
Work highlights
- Advising Park Developments Group on the construction and forward sale of three blocks of residential apartments located at the Clay Farm development in Leopardstown, Dublin, to BlackRock and SW3 Capital.
- Advising Datadog on its lease of 44,000 square feet of office space from Hubspot to establish its new Irish HQ in the IFSC area.
- Advising a Kennedy Wilson vehicle on its acquisition of a number of industrial facilities from EPUT Property Trust.
Ireland > Tax Tier 1
Matheson LLP stands out for its large team and its advisory capabilities, coupled with extensive transactional and contentious expertise. Many of the partners are qualified chartered accountants, chartered tax advisers and have experience of working in Big Four accountancy firms. It is widely recognised for its financial services tax practice, which has included recent advice on major corporate restructurings, investments and acquisitions. The firm is also acclaimed for its indirect tax expertise and abilities in tax controversy. Joe Duffy, Turlough Galvin, Shane Hogan, Catherine O’Meara and Gerry Thornton are at the top of the market, with Tomás Bailey and indirect tax specialist Matthew Broadstock also impressing. In early 2024, Olivia Long rejoined the firm as head of tax policy from her previous position with the OECD in Paris.Practice head(s):
Shane Hogan
Other key lawyers:
Turlough Galvin; Catherine O’Meara; Gerry Thornton; Joe Duffy; Aidan Fahy; Tomás Bailey; Matthew Broadstock; Caroline Austin; Brian Doohan; Vahan Tchrakian; Philip Tully; Barry McGettrick; Olivia Long
Testimonials
‘The tax team is excellent – technically superb, responsive, collaborative and a pleasure to deal with.’
‘The team’s technical excellence, responsiveness, practicality and honesty differentiate them from their competitors. Shane Hogan is simply excellent – forthright, honest, responsive and technically superb. I also hugely value the input of Catherine O’Meara ’
‘Incredibly thoughtful firm – cohesive delivery, consistently excellent.’
‘Gerry Thornton, in particular, stands out for being so caring and so practical.’
‘The Matheson team have a deep knowledge of Irish Tax rules and how they apply to Irish businesses. The team are able to take complex Irish and Foreign tax concepts and help us to implement them within the company.’
‘The Matheson team provide top quality service. They are very timely in replies, and will go the distance to make sure the technical advice provided is well thought out and appropriate. ’
‘Knowledgeable, pragmatic, experienced, well informed, available, very easy to work with.’
‘Tomás Bailey has been an exceptional business partner to my company on tax matters. He is exceptionally knowledgeable and provided advice regarding our options which was invaluable. We were impressed by him, and guided by Matheson throughout, and achieved the best outcome due to their involvement. Cannot recommend highly enough.’
Key clients
AbbVie
Advent International
Cimpress
Circle
Fremantle Media Group
Horizon Therapeutics
Johnson & Johnson
JP Morgan
Macquarie European Infrastructure Fund
MariaDB Corporation Ab
ProKidney
STERIS plc
Trinity Biotech Plc
Vermilion Energy Inc
Vertex Inc
Vertiv
Work highlights
- Advised Horizon Therapeutics plc on its acquisition by Amgen Inc, valued at approximately $28bn.
- Advised Waystone on two transformational transactions in 2022.
- Advised Graham Partners on its acquisition of a majority ownership of Irish company Taoglas.
Ireland > Telecoms Tier 1
Matheson LLP continues to maintain a strong presence in the telecommunications sector, advising a multitude of established and new telecom companies on regulations, investigations, and transactions in Ireland. Kate McKenna has extensive experience of assisting regulated companies with regulations brought by ComReg and jointly heads the practice with Niall Collins, Anne-Marie Bohan, and Carlo Salizzo. Simon Shinkwin is another key member of the team.Practice head(s):
Niall Collins; Kate McKenna; Anne-Marie Bohan; Carlo Salizzo
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I enjoy working with the Matheson Telecoms team. In particular, I appreciate their responsiveness and their pragmatism. They are willing to make judgment calls and advise a course of action to short deadlines.’
‘The lawyers I work with at Matheson are, first and foremost, really lovely people. I enjoy their company and look forward to working on new projects with them. I regard Kate McKenna and Simon Shinkwin particularly highly. I always feel like I have their full attention and like my work matters to them.’
‘Expert advice while also being very practical and commercially focused. Understand the needs of the business and the challenging environment in which we operate.’
‘They understand the in-house role and managing internal stakeholders. Kate McKenna is highly recommended.’
‘The commercial knowledge of the industry and sector is exceptional. The Matheson team knows the telecoms sector in Ireland and provides great insight and commercially astute advice.’
‘Kate McKenna and Simon Shinkwin are excellent lawyers. Both are practical, demonstrate excellent commercial awareness and know the telecoms industry. They understand the challenges and provide tailored advice.’
Key clients
Three Ireland & parent CK Hutchison
Sky UK
Sky plc
Sky Ireland
Virgin Media
Liberty Global
Microsoft
AMP Capital
An Post / PostMobile
Speed Fibre Group (Enet, Magnet, Airspeed)
Cisco
Meta
Vodafone
Zendesk
MessagerCloud / txtNation
GTT
Warner Bros. Discovery
Cellnex
Asterion Industrial Partners
Raft Technologies
SpaceX
Grain Management
Indeed
Zoom
Amazon Web Services
Revolut
Work highlights
- Advised Virgin Media on the roll out of its new wholesale network and a number of ongoing ComReg enforcement actions.
- Advised Three Ireland on the most high profile telecommunications matter.
- Advised a number of bidders on the acquisition of Eir’s fibre business (joint venture arrangement).
Ireland > Transport Tier 1
Matheson LLP stands out for its ‘immense strength and depth‘ in the transport sector, with a sizeable cross-departmental group that works alongside the firm’s transportation tax team to advise on aviation, shipping, road and rail matters. The firm houses a particularly strong offering in the aviation sector, where Rory McPhillips, Stuart Kennedy, Yvonne McWeeney and Stephen Gardiner are frequently called upon to handle complex financial transactions in addition to providing M&A and regulatory advice; the team is also experienced in the financing of rail and shipping assets. In the transport infrastructure space, Nicola Dunleavy SC, Garret Farrelly and Rhona Henry advise on planning and environmental, projects and construction issues, respectively.Practice head(s):
Rory McPhillips; Stuart Kennedy; Nicola Dunleavy SC; Garret Farrelly; Rhona Henry
Other key lawyers:
Connor Blennerhassett
Testimonials
‘The Matheson team is approachable with strong aviation knowledge. I enjoy working with them on transactions – their client focus makes transaction run smoothly and efficiently.’
‘It is very apparent to the client that Stuart Kennedy, Yvonne McWeeney, Stephen Gardiner and Rory McPhillips actively work together to support each other to ensure that all deals are properly serviced and executed. I always feel when working with the team that there is a partner available to advise or support on any issue which we may have.’
‘Industry profile, knowledge and experience, combined with responsiveness and service orientation, makes the Matheson team stand out from their peers.’
‘I have always been impressed by the depth of knowledge and experience, in addition to the responsiveness, collaborative and solutions-driven approach of the Matheson team, and in particular Stephen Gardiner, Rory McPhillips and Yvonne McWeeney.’
‘The experience of the team is unique and unrivalled. They have immense strength and depth in the transport sector. Their knowledge and training in the sector is excellent. They provide practical advice and solutions to difficult problems. They work with the Matheson tax team to get clients to where they need to be in an efficient and cost-effective manner.’
‘Stuart Kennedy is excellent to work with. Very responsive and great quality of work.’
‘The Matheson team have extensive experience, knowledge and strong commercial acumen. The team are friendly, proactive and are always available to provide advice. They focus on solutions rather than highlighting problems and provide guidance every step of the way. Matheson are our go-to firm for legal advice.’
‘Stuart Kennedy has extensive knowledge about the aviation industry, providing an exceptional service and going the extra mile in terms of meeting clients’ needs. Stuart offers practical advice and is very astute to the commercial aspects. He is professional and patient when explaining complex legal issues, taking the time to ensure we are fully informed on all aspects of our deals.’
Key clients
FTAI Aviation
Aergo Capital Limited
Norwegian Air Shuttle ASA
CDB Aviation
UK Export Finance (UKEF)
CCB Aviation
Aviation Capital Group
AerCap
Castlelake, L.P.
LR AirFinance
Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE)
Arctic Aviation Assets DAC
PK AirFinance
Jackson Square Aviation
Tokyo Century
Fortress Investment Group LLC
Banco Nacional de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Social (BNDES)
Bank of Communications Financial Leasing Co., Ltd. (BoComm Leasing)
CMB Financial Leasing (CMB Aviation)
Azorra Aviation
Irving Oil Company Limited
Exolum Corporation, S.A.
Drogheda Port Company
Work highlights
- Acting for ALAFCO on the sale to Macquarie of 53 current and next-generation commercial passenger aircraft and an order for 20 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft (valued at USD 2.2bn).
- Acting on an information barrier basis using two teams to advise Azorra Aviation and Voyager Aviation Holdings, LLC on the purchase by Azorra of substantially all of Voyager Aviation’s assets.
- Advising Drogheda Port Company on the development of a new deep-water multi-modal port near Balbriggan, North Dublin.
Ireland > Construction Tier 2
Matheson LLP‘s ‘highly skilled‘ construction team has considerable strength in advising major contractors, but its broad client base extends to developers, technology and pharmaceutical companies, and funders. The team has an excellent reputation for advising on the development of large-scale projects across the residential, hotel, office and technology sectors, and also handles a steady stream of construction dispute mandates. ‘Industry expert‘ Rhona Henry and Nicola Dunleavy SC, who leads on contentious matters, head the practice. The ‘excellent‘ Alison Bearpark, who joined from RDJ LLP in April 2023, and Ruadhán Kenny, who was promoted to partner in January 2024, are also noted.Practice head(s):
Rhona Henry; Nicola Dunleavy
Other key lawyers:
Alison Bearpark; Ruadhán Kenny; Rebecca O’Mahony
Testimonials
‘The team has an ability to understand the nuances and detail of complex matters quickly and give excellent technical advice focused on essential issues. They have a proactive, solution-orientated approach focused on clients’ requirements.’
‘They stand out for their personal touch, awareness of business requirements, and for how they are able to adapt.’
‘Alison Bearpark impresses for her professionalism and quick response times. In construction, quick and simple answers are often required. Alison will always return calls and follow up on items when necessary.’
‘Matheson’s construction team is highly skilled and always delivers on time. Their advice is accurate, clear and comprehensive and their support and in-depth industry experience are highly valuable. Overall, their knowledge of construction law and practice is second to none.’
‘Rhona Henry is an industry expert in all things construction related. Both Rhona and Alison Bearpark are excellent lawyers and have an innate ability to condense incredibly complex and contentious issues into digestible, pragmatic legal and commercial advice. Their support and in-depth knowledge of the legal framework, the commercial backdrop and clients’ need are invaluable.’
‘Nicola Dunleavy is extremely competent. Ruadhán Kenny always given his full attention and excellent support.‘
‘Rhona Henry stands out for the personal touch. She understands in contract negotiation, for example, that not everything can be achieved; however, she’s pragmatic and understands business from both sides of the fence. Clients always feel that they are in safe and practical hands when dealing with Rhona.’
‘Alison Bearpark is an excellent partner and is always willing to go the extra mile to get deals over the line.’
Key clients
AM alpha
Aramark Corporation
Ballymore Group
Brown-Forman Corporation
Cardinal
Chartered Land
CLH Aviation
Gallico Developments
Google Ireland Limited
Hines
Horizon Therapeutics PLC
Killiney Estates Limited
Oxley Holdings Limited
Park Developments Group
Round Hill Capital
Saint-Gobain Weber Limited
SSE plc
Sisk Group
Tenable
Tudor Homes
Workday Inc
Ireland > Information technology Tier 2
Matheson LLP has significant experience of advising blue-chip technology companies and multinational financial services companies on technology transactions, cyber security matters, and other regulatory issues. Anne-Marie Bohan heads the practice and has extensive experience of drafting and negotiating contracts for the development, sale, purchase, licensing and distribution of technology. Rory O’Keeffe and Carlo Salizzo specialise in technology outsourcing transactions and data privacy matters. Michael Byrne relies on his dispute resolution experience to handle contentious matters for technology clients and represent them in proceedings before the Irish courts.Practice head(s):
Anne-Marie Bohan
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Allied Irish Bank plc
An Post
Aviareto
Callsign
Carne
CosenSys
Crypto.com
Grifols, S.A.
IQ-EQ
Irish Life
Microsoft
Northern Trust
Segment
Three Ireland
Vertex, Inc.
WaterWipes
Work highlights
- Advising Microsoft on an ongoing basis in connection with technology, contract and regulatory matters, including contentious contract matters.
- Advised Zoom Video Communications, Inc. on its acquisition of Workvivo, a Cork-based employee communication and engagement platform.
- Advised Bank of Ireland on the data protection aspect of its acquisition of a number of portfolios from KBCI.
Ireland > Intellectual property Tier 2
Situated within Matheson LLP‘s technology and innovation group, the intellectual property team collaborates closely with the firm’s litigation group, delivering extensive advice on contentious issues stemming from patent infringement, counterfeiting, and content liability. In addition to this, the team is highly active on the non-contentious front and advises domestic and international clients on Irish IP documentation, IP rights, brand protection, trade marks, and IP-related due diligence. Practice head Anne-Marie Bohan has a strong focus on the management, commercialisation, and licensing of intellectual property, with continuous support from Nicola Dunleavy and Carlo Salizzo.Practice head(s):
Anne-Marie Bohan
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
FBG Enterprises Opco, LLC
Microsoft
Meta
Waterwipes
Allied Irish Banks
Ireland > Pensions and employee benefits Tier 2
Matheson LLP assists a wide variety of international companies and financial institutions with the full spectrum of pension related mandates, including the merger of retirement benefits schemes, compliance, contractual claims for pension entitlement and the winding-up of pension schemes. Lorcan Keenan heads the practice, specialising in the creation, function, and regulatory structure of occupational pension schemes.Practice head(s):
Lorcan Keenan
Testimonials
‘Matheson has long been a highly reputable and trusted firm. Lorcan Keenan has a strong track record, and we look forward to seeing his collaborative and practical solution-focused approach in his new role.’
‘Lorcan Keenan’s key attributes are his attention to detail and a collaborative and practical solution-focused approach. He is responsive and can provide clear guidance and advice.’
‘The team’s strengths include a wide knowledge of technical pensions issues along with the ability to collaborate with management and other advisors to offer practical solutions to complex issues.’
‘Lorcan Keenan has developed a good understanding of our business structures and can offer relevant and pragmatic advice as appropriate. I have valued the attention to detail and prompt response times on technical pension-related matters.’
‘Lorcan Keenan is practical and commercially astute.’
‘Lorcan Keenan is very clear and efficient in his advice. He gives a practical perspective and is extremely knowledgeable in this area.’
‘Lorcan Keenan is a good addition to the team and is responsive and expert.’
Ireland > White-collar crime Tier 2
Matheson LLP’s regulatory investigations and corporate crime team handles prevention, detection, reporting and risk management of white-collar crimes. Practice head Karen Reynolds has longstanding experience advising financial institutions on a wide range of regulatory issues, including insider dealing, anti-bribery and corruption, fraud, and cyber security breaches. Nicola Dunleavy SC and Deirdre Crowley regularly assist clients with internal corporate investigations and investigations brought by external regulators. Senior associates Deirdre Crowley and Connor Cassidy are also noted.Practice head(s):
Karen Reynolds
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team are second to none when it comes to guiding clients through the complexities of regulatory and criminal investigations, avoiding all the landmines and delivering clear and comprehensive advices at all stages.’
‘Karen Reynolds is very impressive. She is extremely knowledgeable, astute and an excellent communicator who builds close relationships with her clients and provides sensible and pragmatic advice in a crystal clear manner.’
‘Nicola Dunleavy has exceptional ability, diligence and integrity.’
‘Connor Cassidy stands out.’
Key clients
Centric Health
Iveco Group N.V., CNH Industrial N.V. and Stellantis N.V
Breccia Unlimited Company and Blackrock Hospital Limited
Irish Precision Optics
Irving Oil / Top Oil
Ticketmaster
Volkswagen Group Ireland Limited and Volkswagen Financial Services Ireland Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Centric Health on an inquiry commenced by the Irish Data Protection Commission following a cyber-attack.
- Advised Iveco Group on the defence of a significant number of High Court Irish claims.
- Advised Irving Oil / Top Oil on a fuel price investigation by the Irish competition regulator in the context of significant price increases arising from the Ukraine conflict.
Matheson LLP > Firm Profile
Established in 1825 in Dublin, Ireland and with offices in Cork, London, New York, Palo Alto and San Francisco, 800 people work across Matheson’s six offices, including 121 partners and tax principals and over 540 legal, tax and digital services professionals. Matheson services the legal needs of internationally focused companies and financial institutions doing business in and from Ireland. Our clients include over half of the world’s 50 largest banks, 7 of the world’s 10 largest asset managers, 7 of the top 10 global technology brands and we have advised the majority of the Fortune 100 companies.
Our expertise is spread across more than 30 practice groups, including finance and capital markets, corporate, international business, mergers and acquisitions, technology and innovation, digital services, intellectual property, insolvency and corporate restructuring, EU and competition, asset management and investment funds, employment, pensions and benefits, commercial real estate, litigation and dispute resolution, healthcare, insurance, tax, private client, energy and infrastructure, fintech and life sciences. We work collaboratively across all areas, reinforcing a client first ethos among our people, and our broad and interconnected spread of industry and sectoral expertise allows us to provide the full range of legal advice and services to our clients.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Asset and aviation finance | Gerry Thornton | ||
Asset and aviation finance | Rory McPhillips | ||
Asset and aviation finance | Yvonne McWeeney | ||
Asset and aviation finance | Stuart Kennedy | ||
Asset management | Tara Doyle | ||
Asset management | Michael Jackson | ||
Asset management | Dualta Counihan | ||
Asset management | Shay Lydon | ||
Asset management | Liam Collins | ||
Asset management | Philip Lovegrove | ||
Asset management | Joe Beashel | ||
Asset management | Anne-Marie Bohan | ||
Asset management | Elizabeth Grace | ||
Asset management | Michelle Ridge | ||
Asset management | Oisin McClenaghan | ||
Asset management | Barry O'Connor | ||
Asset management | Donal O'Byrne | ||
Banking | Patrick Molloy | ||
Banking | William Prentice | ||
Banking | Alma Campion | ||
Banking | Donal O'Donovan | ||
Banking | David O'Mahony | ||
Banking | Michael Hastings | ||
Capital markets | Turlough Galvin | ||
Capital markets | George Brady | ||
Capital markets | Alan Keating | ||
Commercial litigation and dispute resolution | Sharon Daly | ||
Commercial litigation and dispute resolution | Nicola Dunleavy | ||
Commercial litigation and dispute resolution | Michael Byrne | ||
Commercial litigation and dispute resolution | Karen Reynolds | ||
Commercial real estate | Brian Doran | ||
Commercial real estate | Sally Anne Stone | ||
Commercial real estate | Leonie Dunne | ||
Commercial real estate | Niamh Maher | ||
Corporate/M&A | Patrick Spicer | ||
Corporate/M&A | Fergus Bolster | ||
Corporate/M&A | George Brady | ||
Corporate/M&A | Brian McCloskey | ||
Corporate/M&A | Madeline McDonnell | ||
Corporate restructuring and insolvency | Tony O'Grady | ||
Corporate restructuring and insolvency | Julie Murphy-O'Connor | ||
Corporate restructuring and insolvency | Brendan Colgan | ||
Corporate restructuring and insolvency | Karen Reynolds | ||
EU, competition and regulatory | Kate McKenna | ||
Employment, pensions and benefits | Bryan Dunne | ||
Employment, pensions and benefits | Russell Rochford | ||
Employment, pensions and benefits | Geraldine Carr | ||
Financial institutions | Joe Beashel | ||
Financial institutions | Grainne Callanan | ||
Financial institutions | Darren Maher | ||
FinTech | Anne-Marie Bohan | ||
FinTech | Michael Jackson | ||
FinTech | Joe Beashel | ||
Food and beverage | Patrick Spicer | ||
Healthcare | Rebecca Ryan | ||
Insurance | Sharon Daly | ||
Insurance | Darren Maher | ||
Insurance | April McClements | ||
Intellectual property | Sharon Daly | ||
International business | Robert O'Shea | ||
Tax | John Ryan | ||
International business | Pat English | ||
International business | Shane Hogan | ||
International business | Mark O'Sullivan | ||
International business | Emma Doherty | ||
International business | Kieran Trant | ||
Life sciences | Robert O'Shea | ||
Listings | Margot Carty | ||
Listings | Christian Donagh | ||
Media and entertainment | Ruth Hunter | ||
Outsourcing | Anne-Marie Bohan | ||
Planning and environmental | Nicola Dunleavy | ||
Private client | John Gill | ||
Private equity | George Brady | ||
Projects, energy and construction | Rhona Henry | ||
Projects, energy and construction | Garret Farrelly | ||
Regulatory risk management and compliance | Joe Beashel | ||
Structured finance, securitisation and repackaging | Christian Donagh | ||
Structured finance, securitisation and repackaging | Turlough Galvin | ||
Structured finance, securitisation and repackaging | Richard Kelly | ||
Structured finance, securitisation and repackaging | Alan Keating | ||
Tax | Turlough Galvin | ||
Tax | Liam Quirke | ||
Tax | John Ryan | ||
Tax | Shane Hogan | ||
Tax | Aidan Fahy | ||
Tax | John Kelly | ||
Tax | Gerry Thornton | ||
Tax | Mark O'Sullivan | ||
Tax | Joe Duffy | ||
Tax | Catherine O'Meara | ||
Tax | Matthew Broadstock | ||
Tax | Vahan Tchrakian | ||
Tax | Kevin Smith | ||
Tax | Brian Doohan | ||
Tax | Barry McGettrick | ||
Technology innovation | Anne-Marie Bohan | ||
Telecommunications | Kate McKenna |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Ms Gráinne Callanan | Gráinne Callanan leads Matheson’s Cork office and is a partner in the… | View Profile | |
Ms Geraldine Carr | Geraldine is a partner in the Employment, Pensions and Benefits Group. She provides… | View Profile | |
Ms Deirdre Crowley | Deirdre Crowley is a partner in the Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of legal and tax professionals : 470 Number of employees : 800+Languages
English othersMemberships
The Interlex GroupOther
Other offices : London Other offices : New York Other offices : Palo Alto Other offices : San Francisco Other offices : CorkLegal Briefings
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MGA establishment in Ireland
Following the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union, UK authorised insurance intermediaries lost their regulatory permissions under the Insurance Distribution Directive (IDD) to carry on insurance distribution activities in respect of EU/EEA based risks and commitments. -
Headline trends in merger control and competition law enforcement in Ireland
Starting with Irish merger control, how would you sum up activity in the past 12 months in Ireland? Consistent with global M&A activity, 2021 was a busy year for the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) with 74 merger clearances. Banking and financial services attracted the most significant merger reviews. -
Irish insolvency procedures and international restructurings
Introduction The Irish restructuring and insolvency regime is well-established and internationally recognised. The underlying principles have been heavily shaped and influenced historically by the common law system and in recent years have been integrated in the EU framework under the Recast Insolvency Regulation, augmented by the provisions of the Rome Regulation and Recast Brussels Regulation. -
Doing business in Ireland
What lies behind Ireland’s enduring attraction as an FDI location? Ireland’s status as a leading FDI location has long been internationally recognised. -
Commercial real estate in Ireland – ESG, permitting and VAT
Starting with ESG, I am sure it is the case in Ireland as with the UK, that sustainability is continuing to move towards the forefront of corporate agendas? -
Key developments in the Irish white-collar crime landscape
What are some of the recent key developments in the Irish white-collar crime landscape that in-house counsel should be aware of?
Comparative Guides
-
Ireland: Tax Disputes
Published: October 2023
Authors: Joe DuffyTomás BaileyRachel O'Sullivan
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Tax Disputes laws and regulations applicable in Ireland.
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Ireland: Private Equity
Published: January 2024
Authors: Brian McCloskeyEnda GarveyAlly McCourtVahan Tchrakian
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Private Equity laws and regulations applicable in Ireland.
- Asset finance
- Banking and finance
- Capital markets
- Commercial, corporate and M&A
- Data privacy and data protection
- Dispute resolution
- Employment
- Energy and natural resources
- EU and competition
- Fintech
- Healthcare and life sciences
- Insolvency and corporate restructuring
- Insurance
- Investment funds
- Media and entertainment
- Planning and environment
- Projects and PPP
- Public sector
- Real estate
- Tax
- Telecoms
- Transport