Taylor Wessing LLP > Cambridge, England > Firm Profile
Taylor Wessing LLP Offices
24 HILLS ROAD
CAMBRIDGE
CB2 1JW
England
Taylor Wessing LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Biotechnology Tier 1
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1
Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £250m) Tier 1
Taylor Wessing LLP‘s ��great sector knowledge‘ and ability to ‘deal with complex issues without fuss‘ makes them a key choice for a range of sponsors and management teams. Steered by Edward Waldron, who assumed leadership of the group in May 2023, the practice handles a mix of investment deals, growth company-focused buyouts, and mid-market sale processes – frequently with a cross-border aspect. ‘Consistent, thoughtful, and composed‘, Emma Danks is a highly experienced transactional adviser noted for her particular expertise in pharma-driven deals. Jonny Bethell is similarly praised for the depth of his sponsor relationships, having become a key contact for numerous PE houses. Other names to note include James Goold, a seasoned PE and M&A partner whose recent engagements include cross-border divestitures in the professional services and leisure sectors.Practice head(s):
Edward Waldron
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The key strength is the consistency of the team you get to work with. They have obviously done a great job of motivating and retaining staff, which means that we as the client get to work with the same team over and over again, from trainee through to partner. This helps build a level of trust between client and adviser and means that projects can be up and running much more quickly than would be the case if the team were constantly changing.’
‘The team are always available and always engaged which results in good outcomes for us. It feels like there is a high degree of collaboration across all levels, both on our side and their side which definitely results in a more seamless working relationship.’
‘Emma Danks and Jonny Bethell are always available to lend a hand, no matter how big or small the matter is. Both of them are consistent, thoughtful and composed. They are people I know I can turn to at all times for support and advice and the counsel I receive will be high quality.’
‘Great sector knowledge and very easy to work with. Deal with complex issues without fuss. Well networked within the space.’
Key clients
Inflexion Private Equity
Bridgepoint
Caledonia Investments
Rutland Partners
Alcuin Capital Partners
August Equity
Rockpool Investments
Intriva Capital Advisors
Apposite Capital
Sullivan Street Partners
Blauvelt Capital
MML Capital
Graphite Capital
The Rohatyn Group
Corsair Capital
Verdane
Baird Capital
GLJ Capital
Management teams / founders (various, including Acal, Theramex, group. One, Kantar Public, Kobalt, Roadchef, Scott Dunn, Virgin Experience Days, K2 Partnering Solutions, Boston MFO, SPF)
Corporate and commercial > Venture capital Tier 1
Led by Angus Miln, the 'very experienced' team at Taylor Wessing LLP provides 'high-quality' advice to a relatively balanced mix of investees and investors seeking or providing finance from an early stage through to an exit strategy. As well as transactional work, the firm is also 'very well-plugged into the venture capital ecosystem', with both Miln and the 'first-class' Howard Palmer continuing to advise the British Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (BVCA) on the drafting of standard documentation to facilitate early-stage venture capital investment. As well as having deep expertise within the tech sector, the firm has a strong track record advising on life sciences/healthcare mandates, an area that Cambridge-based partner Ross McNaughton is particularly adept and can add value to clients engaged in matters with a transatlantic edge by dint of his previous experience working out of San Francisco. Indeed, the UK team as a whole regularly works in a cross-office capacity alongside colleagues spread across Europe, the Middle East and Asia, with the 'very impressive and commercial' Josef Fuss noted, in particular for his 'excellent VC connections and with Israeli investors'. Alexandra Richardson excels in advising clients in IP-rich sectors including software, fintech, digital media and digital health companies, both on the investor and investee front. All named practitioners are based in London, unless otherwise indicated.Practice head(s):
Angus Miln
Other key lawyers:
Howard Palmer; Josef Fuss; Alexandra Richardson; Ross McNaughton; Ian Moore; Elinor Picton; Deepti Patankar; Oli Denne
Testimonials
‘They provide extremely high quality and timely work.’
‘The very experienced team is very well-plugged into the venture capital ecosystem.’
‘Howard Palmer provides a first-class service and advice at every step along our journey.’
‘The very impressive and commercial Josef Fuss has excellent VC connections and with Israeli investors, in particular.’
Key clients
Florence
Partech
BeZero Carbon Ltd
Bankingly
Thought Machine
VavaCars
New Science Ventures
Nuclera
Dawn Capital
BMLL Technologies
Gravity Sketch
CUBE Global
Argent Labs
Work highlights
Industry focus > Hospitality and leisure Tier 1
Praised for its ‘excellent hotel sector knowledge’, the team of lawyers at Taylor Wessing LLP is highly regarded for advising on both the buy-side and sell-side for large single asset and portfolio M&A hotel transactions. The team is equally strong in assisting with hotel franchise and management agreements and hotel developments. The group is headed up by Richard Bursby, ‘a leader in the industry,’ whose expertise lies in assisting HNWIs, families and entrepreneurs with international transactions, branded residential projects, hotel management and franchise agreements, and traveltech work. Mark Rajbenbach and Victoria Butcher are active in the commercial property and real estate space, and regularly operate in the hotels, leisure and logistics industries, advising on hotel portfolio sales and purchases, and hotel leases and management agreements. Michael Helfgott is instructed by national and international clients, ranging from property developers and financial institutions, to entrepreneurs and tourist attractions.Practice head(s):
Richard Bursby
Other key lawyers:
Mark Rajbenbach; Victoria Butcher; Michael Helfgott; Jack Wain
Testimonials
‘They have excellent hotel sector knowledge. They also have good availability of senior team members/partners as and when required.’
‘Richard Bursby is a key relationship partner with great hotel sector knowledge and has a stellar reputation in the industry.’
‘A very strong team overall with excellent industry and sector knowledge. They are great to work with.’
‘Mark Rajbenbach and Victoria Butcher stand out. They are attentive, diligent and commercial. They make it pleasurable to do deals.’
‘The hotels team have exceptional industry knowledge and have strength and depth which is not always the case with a number of other firms. Overall I totally trust the team to look after my interests and they also have a culture as a business which is in line with my own values.’
‘Richard Bursby is a leader in the industry and I have a huge amount of respect for him.’
Key clients
Vivion
Invesco
Fortress
L&R
Castleforge Partners
Virgin
PPHE Hotel Group
Yotel
RBH Hospitality Management
Edyn
Burger King
Work highlights
- Advised Crimson Hotels an asset deal which involved the purchase of the 130 key Curio Collection by Hilton-branded Trafalgar Hotel in London, which was marketed for sale at £130m, and an associated £250m refinancing of two other hotels.
- Advised Fortress Investment Group on the £150m+ debt, corporate and asset restructuring of the Prem Group, which operates 38 hotel and serviced apartment assets across the UK, Ireland, Netherlands and Belgium.
- Advised Vivion Investments on the £200m+ refinancing of the Ribbon portfolio of hotels with M&G.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1
At Taylor Wessing LLP, head of department, Emma Jordan ‘blends excellent strategic instincts and big-picture thinking with an impressive grasp of forensic detail’. The practice is ‘one of the giants in this area’ and ‘consists of individuals with market-leading expertise and experience’. Jordan is both an English barrister and a Jersey Advocate. Kirstie McGuigan is sought after for her work that spans both contentious and advisory matters. Caroline Tayler has a strong reputation in the market for her trusts advice arising from divorce proceedings. The group is also recognised for its civil fraud work, its experience in asset tracing, and for its recovery advice in the context of offshore trusts and structures. In addition, the team has carved out considerable expertise in advising on insolvent trusts, and has been building its specialism in trusts arbitrations. This team is highly recommended for its work on international private wealth disputes, and frequently deals with high-value issues of capacity.Practice head(s):
Emma Jordan
Other key lawyers:
Kirstie McGuigan; Caroline Tayler; George Porter; Kate Silbermann; Rob Gibson
Testimonials
‘Emma Jordan is a standout partner. Her skill set leaves her exceptionally well placed to understand both what a client really needs, and how best to get them there. She is top of my list for any contentious trusts disputes.
‘Rob Gibson is an excellent and hard-working lawyer, whose strong forensic skills and legal knowledge are paired with an excellent client manner. George Porter has superb analytical skills and a very good grasp of detail. He is highly effective and a pleasure to work with’.
‘A great team, with a real depth of knowledge and experience when it comes to cross border litigation. Emma Jordan’s Jersey practice is a particular asset to the department.’
‘Emma Jordan is a real expert in trust law, particularly with Channel Islands elements. Kate Silbermann, in my opinion, is one of the best at her level and a person you want on your team, rather than your opponent’s. She has exceptional attention to detail and is a pleasure to work with.’
‘Emma Jordan is highly regarded and experienced litigator in this area with the added bonus of her being a Jersey advocate Caroline Tayler – very experienced and effective litigator. Rob Gibson – extremely effective associate.’
‘One of the giants in this area, they have both offshore and onshore matters often of very high value. Caroline Taylor is very sensible and clear headed. Gives great advice.’
‘Kirsty McGuigan is a real powerhouse in trusts and estates disputes.’
‘Kirstie McGuigan is a formidable operator and a true leader. She is an excellent point-person in complex litigation, an intelligent and empathetic legal adviser and has a warm and reassuring manner with clients. She quickly earns the respect of everyone who works with her.’
Key clients
Equity Trusts (Jersey) Limited
Harbour Fund II, LP
Heir to father’s estate under forced heirship rules
The Administrator of the Estate of Lord Jacobs and The Trustees of the Jacobs Charitable Trust
Volpi
Campbell
Work highlights
- Advising on the landmark insolvent trust case of Equity Trust (Jersey) Ltd, which set a precedent in determining the appropriate ranking of trustee’s liens but in clarifying the nature and character of the trustee’s equitable lien.
- Acting for the daughter of a wealthy deceased in complex multi-jurisdictional litigation over her entitlement to her father’s estate and as beneficiary of a Jersey trust, where the division of assets is being challenged by her half-siblings.
- Acting for Harbour Fund II, LP, appointed by the English High Court, as trustee of over £600m of newly created Jersey trusts, which are in the wrong hands as a result of a high-profile fraud.
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 1
Nick Warr heads a ‘professional, personable and knowledgeable’ team at Taylor Wessing LLP. Warr has a strong client following, advising single and multi-family offices in numerous jurisdictions, investment bankers, hedge fund managers and private equity principals. In addition, he acts as trustee for some high-profile families and acts as a strategic adviser to a number of billionaire families. Simon Phelps is recommended for his work on complex estate planning, capital and income taxation, in addition to offshore and onshore trusts. Phelps has an excellent reputation in the Asian market. Sanjvee Shah has considerable experience in advising clients on complex cross-border tax, succession and estate planning matters. Kirstie McGuigan is also highly regarded for her handling of a broad range of contentious and non-contentious matters. Also recommended is Damian Bloom, who specialises in UK and international tax and estate planning matters. Bloom has a particular focus on long-term planning for UK and non-UK domiciled individuals. Ben Lister has recently been promoted to the partnership.Practice head(s):
Nick Warr
Other key lawyers:
Simon Phelps; Damian Bloom; Sanjvee Shah; Dom Rothbarth; Kunal Vyas; Ben Lister; Joshua Boughton; Kirstie McGuigan
Testimonials
‘Nick Warr leads a diverse and growing team of easy to deal with quality people’.
‘Nick Warr – all round expertise in both tax and trusts. Damian Bloom – great all rounder and excellent client service. Dom Rothbarth – great technical brain and able to explain tough concepts well’.
‘The practice is top notch especially for private clients working in the finance industry. They have definitely an edge in this field and the quality of the work is really top notch. Always available and very nice. Nick Warr, Kunal Vyas’.
‘Taylor Wessing is a global firm with a truly impressive depth of knowledge and expertise within their private client department, and a very impressive roster of partners within their London office’.
‘A number of standouts within their team; Nick Warr obviously who is easily within the top 5 private client lawyers in London; with shout-outs to Sanjvee Shah and Ben Lister who recently (and very deservedly) made partner and is one to watch for the future’.
‘Professional, personable, knowledgeable & detailed. Joshua Boughton – responsive with well considered advice. Simon Phelps – professional at all times, providing comprehensive and well considered advice‘.
‘The team are a very ‘joined up’ unit with strong collaborative behaviours. Technically strong and competent. Whilst not unique, the trust and confidence in the team is high and has been consistently so for a number of years’.
‘The strongest team member in my experience is Kirstie McGuigan who is technically very capable, co-ordinates the relationship management, knows personal limits but where to turn for additional support and engenders trust and confidence’.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 1
Taylor Wessing LLP’s comprehensive IP service includes assisting clients with the full spectrum of brand protection and enforcement issues alongside copyright disputes and transactions. The practice is prominent across creative industries, such as music, broadcasting and social media, with notable strengths in technology. Co-lead Niri Shan is particularly experienced in the litigation sphere, operating across all aspects of soft IP, while fellow co-lead Mark Owen is active in the media, entertainment and technology sectors. Jason Rawkins advises on both contentious and non-contentious IP issues related to brands, designs, and domain names, and Adam Rendle undertakes various copyright issues, covering a wide variety of creative and tech sectors. Roland Mallinson counts major international brand and technology owners in his client roster.Practice head(s):
Niri Shan; Mark Owen
Other key lawyers:
Jason Rawkins; Adam Rendle; Roland Mallinson; Magdalena Borucka
Testimonials
‘A strong trademark and copyright team.’
‘Adam Rendle is very good at copyright.’
‘The team has lots of expertise in brand advice and diversity in background, level and type of professional qualification.’
‘The individuals are committed and, having worked with us for a while, have gained good knowledge of the brand and its issues in the market.’
Key clients
Inditex (Zara)
William Grant and Sons
The Bazooka Companies, Inc.
Shenzen Senior Tech Materials
Orange
Work highlights
- Acting for William Grant & Sons in a dispute regarding a lookalike Hendrick’s gin product sold by Lidl Gin. The case is particularly significant since it is a rare example of the claimant winning a lookalike case in the UK.
- Advising Inditex, owner of the Zara, Bershka, Massimo Dutti and other fashion brands, on all IP matters in the UK.
- Advise The Bazooka Companies, Inc. (previously called Topps) on the defence of it’s candy/confectionery product in the shape of a baby’s bottle, which has been sold in the millions around the EU for many decades and has recently been threatened.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Theatre, publishing and other media Tier 1
Reflective of practice head Adam Rendle‘s capabilities in the publishing sector, Taylor Wessing LLP is a regular advisor on publishing agreements, IP rights and content-related disputes. Seasoned litigator Niri Shanmuganathan is noted for his expertise in defamation, contempt and privacy matters; he provides pre-publication and post-publication advice in matters involving high-profile newspapers and political campaigns. Another name to note is senior counsel Timothy Pinto for his advice to international publishers dealing with media, IP and advertising law issues.Practice head(s):
Adam Rendle
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team brings a wealth of experience and global perspective to questions of media practice that is unparalleled.’
‘Timothy Pinto, Adam Rendle and Niri Shanmuganathan have a depth of understanding about the unique needs and concerns of their media clients. They are detail-oriented and creative in providing options and approaches.’
Key clients
Beyond Entertainment
TodayTix Group
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Cambridge Tier 2
Taylor Wessing LLP is noted as having ‘a strong corporate presence in the Cambridge ecosystem’. Practice co-heads are IP specialist Adrian Toutoungi and Ross McNaughton, who is regarded as ‘a go-to adviser on venture capital transactions‘. The team counts numerous life sciences companies amongst its clients, including Shield Therapeutics plc, Cambridge Epigenetix and Fusion Antibodies. The firm recently acted for desktop bioprinting company Nuclera on its $58m series B financing.Practice head(s):
Ross McNaughton; Adrian Toutoungi
Testimonials
‘Taylor Wessing has a strong corporate presence in the Cambridge ecosystem and frequently advise us and other market participants on transactional matters.’
‘Ross McNaughton heads up the corporate team and is a go-to advisor in the market on venture capital transactions. He has strong full service support behind him and several able associates in his team.’
‘A great team with coordinated responses and fantastic communication, who are invested in clients’ business.’
‘Ross McNaughton is pragmatic, business-focused and really cares about their clients. I cannot fault his service and advice.’
Key clients
Shield Therapeutics plc
Cambridge Epigenetix
IP Group plc
Apollo Therapeutics
Fusion Antibodies
Mitel Inc
Nyobolt
The Faraday Institution
Salience Labs
Start Codon
Abbott
Pacira Biosciences
Nuclera
New Science Ventures
PLACID0
Five.AI
Oxford Science Enterprises PLC
2150 Urban Tech Sustainability Fund
Work highlights
- Advised bioprinting pioneer Nuclera on its $58m series B financing.
- Advised leading US deep-tech investor New Science Ventures, on the $60m Series B venture financing it led on for Paragraf.
- Advising Cambridge Epigenetix (CEGX) in relation to its various corporate matters and collaborations with among others, Guardant, Freenome, Agilent and Roche.
Corporate and commercial > M&A: Lower Mid-Market Deals, £100m-£750m Tier 2
The team at Taylor Wessing LLP is particularly noted for its calibre of M&A deals, working with leading clients in the technology, life sciences and healthcare sectors. Recent highlights have involved high value and industry leading, mergers and acquisitions, divestments, sales, exits and takeovers. The team is jointly led by several partners: the head of the private equity team, Emma Danks, who offers experience in cross-border M&A transactions for US acquirers, as well as healthcare, pharmaceutical and life sciences companies; Russell Holden, who acts on a range of transactions and has a strong network in and understanding of the Indian market; Angus Miln, who specialises in M&A, venture capital and private equity transactions; and Michael Goldberg, who concentrates on large transactions in the real estate sector. Howard Palmer advises technology companies through the lifecycle from venture financing to exits via M&A, while Mark Barron acts for both technology and life sciences clients seeking international expansion and M&A opportunities. Tandeep Minhas manages the corporate finance and M&A activity of a range of clients including entrepreneurs and startups to blue chip corporates. Veteran M&A and equity capital markets practitioners Andrew Edge offers significant experience in IPOs, public and private M&A, joint ventures and financing rounds. A notable addition to the team is Dublin-based corporate finance specialist Patrick Quinlan, who joined in December 2022 from Maples Group.Practice head(s):
Emma Danks; Russell Holden; Angus Miln; Michael Goldberg
Other key lawyers:
Howard Palmer; Mark Barron; Tandeep Minhas; Andrew Edge; Paul Thorpe; Patrick Quinlan
Key clients
Mitel
Interactive investor (shareholders)
Azenta, Inc.
AMCS
Eurofins Scientific (EUFI.PA)
Andrew Gerrie and Alison Hawksley (shareholders of Lush)
Eurochange/Corsair Capital
TodayTix
Kantox
FORA Holdings Limited
Five.AI
Crimson Hotels
Infinity SDC
Engine Group
Cognism Limited
Trustology
Bolero.net
Graig
Attraqt Group plc
AJ Gallagher
Work highlights
- Advised Mitel, a global business communications company, on its exclusive negotiations with Atos to acquire Unify, the Unified Communications and Collaboration and Communication and Collaboration Services Business of the Atos Group.
- Advised the shareholders of Interactive Investor, a subscription-based direct investing platform in the UK, on its £1.5bn sale to abrdn plc.
- Advised Azenta, Inc., a provider of life sciences solutions worldwide, on the acquisition of B Medical Systems for an initial purchase price of €410m.
Industry focus > Life sciences and healthcare Tier 2
The team at Taylor Wessing LLP houses a team which exhibits broad expertise spanning venture capital transactions within the biotech space, medical device certifications, and data privacy issues. Practice head Alison Dennis utilises her broad expertise in IP and contractual matters to advise medium to large medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturers on commercialisation issues. Ross McNaughton handles the biotech side of the practice, predominantly assisting clients with issues surrounding international expansion and capital raising. With longstanding experience in biologics and small-molecule therapeutics, Adrian Toutoungi is particularly adept at advising clients on collaboration agreements, while Colin McCall assists clients with licensing agreements and R&D projects. Tasmina Goraya primarily focuses on arbitrations and regulatory disputes, in addition to clinical trial agreements.Practice head(s):
Alison Dennis
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Apollo Therapeutics
Shield Therapeutics
Pacira Biosciences
Bracco Imagining
Cambridge Cognition
IP Group
iRhythm Technologies
Azenta
Cambridge Epigenetix
Sight Sciences
Nuclera Nucleics Ltd
PLACID0
Theramex
Abbott
Pfizer
Fusion Antibodies
Work highlights
- Advised Shield Therapeutics plc on three simultaneous complex transactions including its transformational collaboration agreement with NASDAQ-listed global healthcare company Viatris Inc.
- Advised Apollo Therapeutics on its license agreement with Nasdaq listed Avalo Therapeutics under which Apollo was granted rights to Avalo’s anti-IL-18 monoclonal antibody product AVTX-007 (camoteskimab).
- Advised Nuclera Nucleics on its Series B financing which brings the total raised to $58m. Nuclera will use the additional investments to accelerate the commercial launch of its eProtein desktop bioprinter.
Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 2
Taylor Wessing LLP’s cross-practice consumer and retail group acts for food and beverage, fashion and luxury, and e-commerce sector clients, handling the full spectrum of corporate, employment, and IP matters. The team also advises on industry-specific issues, including licensing and franchising matters, as well as supply chain management. Ian Moore benefits from previous industry experience as the managing director of a sportswear brand, and advises on brand establishment, supply and sales channels, and growth strategies for e-commerce brands. Edward Story has a broad focus which spans corporate real estate, investment, and M&A work, while Jason Rawkins is the key name for trade mark, and design rights advice for luxury and fashion brands; senior counsel Xuyang Zhu is also recommended for her IP expertise. Moore, Story and Rawkins jointly lead the practice.Practice head(s):
Ian Moore; Edward Story; Jason Rawkins
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Vinted
Beauty Pie
Gong cha Global
Damm (Estrella Damm)
Heycar
Inditex Group (Zara, Berksha, Massimo Dutti)
William Grant & Sons
Farfetch
Ruggable
LDH La Dori
Ferrero
Vava Cars
Zapp
Work highlights
- Advised FARFETCH on its global strategic partnership with Neiman Marcus Group NMG, which will utilise FARFETCH Platform Solutions to re-platform the Bergdorf Goodman website and mobile application.
- Advising Inditex, owner of the Zara, Bershka, Massimo Dutti and other fashion brands, on all IP matters in the UK.
- Advising Gong cha on expanding through brand licensing across the world.
Industry focus > TMT Tier 2
Work highlights
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 2
Taylor Wessing LLP is known as the ‘market leader for high value audit negligence disputes’, with an accounting and auditing professional negligence team which is described as ‘unsurpassed’ in its area. Practice head Andrew Howell, ‘always capable and assured in his analysis and is always available to give his invaluable input’, specialises in claims and regulatory investigations. Stuart Broom provides ‘invaluable legal advice’ to a client list which includes some of the world's largest professional service firms. Senior associate Stephanie High, described as ‘extremely hard-working and perceptive’, specialises in professional services disputes and investigations.Practice head(s):
Andrew Howell
Other key lawyers:
Julian Randall; Laurence Lieberman; Stuart Broom; James Bryden; Stephanie High
Testimonials
‘Taylor Wessing’s accounting and auditing professional negligence team are the standout players in the market, with a degree of specific experience and knowledge in the area that is unsurpassed’
‘Market leaders for high value audit negligence disputes, and for a reason. Their knowledge of the industry and ability to deliver a settlement is second to none.’
‘Andrew Howell is the best accountants’ defence litigator in the market as well as a superb person to deal with.’
‘The team has the deepest knowledge of the accountancy sector and its challenges that is available.’
‘Andrew Howell is always capable and assured in his analysis and is always available to give his invaluable input. Stephanie High is also an extremely hard-working and perceptive senior associate.’
‘Taylor Wessing have built a strong reputation in the market and the key partners in this area are well known and highly regarded in the industry. They remain close to emerging trends and collaborate well with their clients.’
‘Andrew Howell and Stuart Broom provide extensive experience in the field of audit regulatory defence. They both demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the industry, providing strategic and invaluable legal advice. I would highly recommend them and their respective teams to anyone in this market.’
‘Julian Randall and Andrew Howell are the market leading partners in accounting professional negligence and discipline. They have been involved in many of the leading cases in this area over the last couple of decades.’
Key clients
Mr Zafar Khan
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Grant Thornton
Work highlights
- Acting for Mr Zafar Khan in relation to an investigation by the Enforcement Division of the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) into the affairs of Carillion plc.
Real estate > Commercial property: development Tier 2
The ‘extremely proactive and hard-working’ team at Taylor Wessing LLP works in conjunction with the firm’s corporate, finance, and tax teams to support clients on cross-border development and investment matters. Head of the real estate department Paul Lawrence regularly acts for international investors in the private wealth arena, while Matthew Swainston caters to joint ventures, as well as landlord and tenant transactions. Paul Leamy is well-versed in mixed-use retail and leisure schemes and Adam Marks collaborates with the firm's private wealth department to advise ultra high-net-worth families. Mark Rajenbach is knowledgeable of lease agreements, management-back transactions and portfolio sales and purchases in the hotel, leisure, and logistics sectors. Leona Ahmed joined the team from Addleshaw Goddard in May 2023 and is a key contact for Asian and Middle Eastern clients looking to invest in the UK.Practice head(s):
Paul Lawrence
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Swainston; Paul Leamy; Adam Marks; Mark Rajenbach; Leona Ahmed; Georgina Watt; Louise Tabott; Michael Helfgott; Jane Hilton; Chris Komodromou; Sarah Bolton
Testimonials
‘They are extremely proactive and hard-working. The team members have gone above and beyond for us on transactions.’
‘Matthew Swainston goes out of his way to make himself available at any time we need him and has helped us get some very difficult and time-consuming transactions over the line against challenging deadlines.’
‘I would happily recommend the team.’
‘Matthew Swainston has a group of capable senior and junior associates who we’ve been impressed with.’
Key clients
Clivedale Ventures Limited
McLaren Property
R&F Properties
Trammell Crow Company
Atenor
BentallGreenOak
Work highlights
- Advising The Westbury Hotel Limited on the hotel’s major redevelopment and refurbishment project.
- Advising Clivedale on a leasehold re-gear with the Crown Estate to facilitate a substantial redevelopment of 20-24 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1.
- Advising R&F on their development of One Nine Elms and Nine Elms Square.
Real estate > Commercial property: investment Tier 2
The ‘extremely proactive and hard-working’ team at Taylor Wessing LLP works in conjunction with the firm’s corporate, finance, and tax teams to support clients on cross-border development and investment matters. Head of the real estate department Paul Lawrence regularly acts for international investors in the private wealth arena, while Matthew Swainston caters to joint ventures, as well as landlord and tenant transactions. Paul Leamy is well-versed in mixed-use retail and leisure schemes and Adam Marks collaborates with the firm's private wealth department to advise ultra high-net-worth families. Mark Rajenbach is knowledgeable of lease agreements, management-back transactions and portfolio sales and purchases in the hotel, leisure, and logistics sectors. Leona Ahmed joined the team from Addleshaw Goddard in May 2023 and is a key contact for Asian and Middle Eastern clients looking to invest in the UK.Practice head(s):
Paul Lawrence
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Swainston; Paul Leamy; Adam Marks; Mark Rajenbach; Leona Ahmed; Georgina Watt; Louise Tabott; Michael Helfgott; Jane Hilton; Chris Komodromou; Sarah Bolton
Testimonials
‘Taylor Wessing were able to bring together a team of experts at short notice to cover all aspects of the transaction.’
‘Mark Rajbenbach is always available, providing consistently calm and considered advice.’
‘They are experts with sufficient resources to deal with whatever the deal throws up, they also act in a commercially astute manner.’
‘First-class commercial real estate department. Commercial approach to complex matters, getting to the heart of issue with limited reading in time.’
Key clients
Cain International
Fortress
Crosstree
Pike Investment Trust
C C Land
Vivion
British Land
Canada Life
BentallGreenOak
Tritax Big Box REIT
Blackstone / Revantage
Invesco
EQT
Harel
Work highlights
- Advising The Westbury Hotel Limited on the hotel’s major redevelopment and refurbishment project.
- Advising Clivedale on a leasehold re-gear with the Crown Estate to facilitate a substantial redevelopment of 20-24 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1.
- Advising R&F on their development of One Nine Elms and Nine Elms Square.
Real estate > Residential property Tier 2
Elaine Dobson heads the team at Taylor Wessing LLP, which has an excellent client base of very wealthy individuals and families. Other key clients include A-list celebrities, high-profile sports personalities and founders of household names in the technology sector. The agile team receives a steady flow of work on iconic, luxury and high-value sites throughout the country. In addition, it has considerable expertise in complex enfranchisement work through Dobson and Rachel George. The group frequently advises UHNW clients on freehold, lease extensions and collective enfranchisement claims for substantial blocks within central London. The practice can also draw on the expertise of its international private wealth team. It also garners praise for its rural property expertise.Practice head(s):
Elaine Dobson
Other key lawyers:
Lisa Bevan; Rachel George; Luke Callaghan; Tom Stanton
Testimonials
‘What sets this team apart is their unique blend of expertise and dedication, making them an ideal choice for potential clients’.
‘The team’s strengths lie in their deep knowledge of property law and their ability to deliver personalised and efficient solutions. Their commitment to providing outstanding client service is fantastic, ensuring that every client receives the attention and support they deserve‘.
‘Their collaborative culture fosters a seamless experience for clients, as they work closely together to tackle complex cases and find creative solutions’.
‘I am delighted to highlight two exceptional partners at this firm, Elaine Dobson and Lisa Bevan. Their contributions to the practice are truly outstanding and highly commendable’.
‘Elaine Dobson brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the team. Her in-depth knowledge of property law, combined with her sharp analytical skills, allows her to provide invaluable advice and guidance to clients. Elaine’s attention to detail and commitment to delivering results make her an invaluable asset to the practice‘.
‘Lisa Bevan is another exceptional partner. With her strong negotiation skills and strategic thinking, Lisa consistently achieves favourable outcomes for her clients. Her exceptional communication skills and ability to build strong relationships make her a trusted advisor for clients‘.
‘Rachel George excelled with her technical knowledge of the processes and procedure. Rachel was always available and excellent in her communications with her other advisors and multiple clients’.
‘Lisa Bevan was thorough, communicative and has the best interests of her clients always. We have an excellent working relationship with Luke Callaghan and Tom Stanton. Both excellent and very responsive’.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: patents (contentious and non-contentious) Tier 2
Commended as an ‘excellent team’, Taylor Wessing LLP’s key areas of expertise encompasses the life sciences and hi-tech industries, regularly advising clients on a variety of contentious and non-contentious matters. The team is led by Nigel Stoate, who is noted for his patent litigation expertise, especially that which involves multiple jurisdictions across Europe. Patent litigation specialists Matthew Royle and Simon Cohen both possess considerable experience in the life sciences sector, while Alison Dennis is known for her ability to handle regulatory and transactional life sciences issues. Adrian Toutongi routinely assists clients with the negotiation and drafting of technology licence agreements, and Christopher Thornham’s capabilities include licensing strategies such as FRAND licence disputes. Another notable name in the practice is Tasmina Goraya, who is well-versed in a diverse array of contentious and non-contentious matters, from pharma regulatory issues to specialist agreements.Practice head(s):
Nigel Stoate
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Royle; Simon Cohen; Alison Dennis; Adrian Toutongi; Christopher Thornham; Tasmina Goraya; Mike Washbrook
Testimonials
‘An excellent team.’
‘Nigel Stoate, Matthew Royle and Michael Washbrook are all excellent patent litigators and look after their clients very well.’
Key clients
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Europe Limited
NOCO
Ericsson
OPPO
Viatris
Shenzhen Senior Technology Materials Ltd
IP Group
Apollo Therapeutics
Various university and academic institute spin-outs
Hilton Foods Group PLC
Work highlights
- Successfully represented Glenmark in preliminary injunction proceedings brought by Novartis in relation to its Gilenya product (fingolimod).
- Acted for Ericsson in the UK in this high-profile patent infringement proceedings against Apple concerning 4G and 5G mobile telecoms technology and other implementation patents.
- Defending OPPO, OnePlus and Realme in patent infringement proceedings brought by InterDigital. The underlying international dispute is high-value as it concerns the terms for a worldwide licence to InterDigital’s portfolio of patents relating to 3G, 4G and 5G technology.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2
Taylor Wessing LLP acts for high-profile investors, from early stage funds and international venture capital firms to corporate investors and sovereign wealth funds. The practice supports clients through the full lifecycle of matters across both advisory and contentious issues. Josef Fuss, who acts for investors, companies and entrepreneurs on joint venture and M&A mandates, jointly leads the team alongside Mark Owen, who handles trade mark, copyright and other IP issues. Graham Hann focuses on commercial and IT matters in the telecoms sector, and is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Mark Owen; Josef Fuss
Other key lawyers:
Graham Hann; Siân Skelton
Testimonials
‘TW has the capacity to do a close follow up of all the open works. They combine a legal view with the business orientated view which is really important to solve problems and give solutions.’
‘Clear communications and efficient. They transmit confidence and most valuable, I think they respect timings.’
Key clients
Monzo
Rezolve
Mitel
Thought Machine
Argent
Trustology Bitpanda
Certn
Ericsson
TodayTix Group
Five.AI
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Digital content & social Tier 2
Much of Taylor Wessing LLP's digital content and social media work sits within the firm's notable copyright practice, where the team is a regular advisor to platform-based tech companies and content owners, as well as social networks and e-commerce providers. Practice head Adam Rendle supports companies through the entire lifecycle of their media assets, from corporate transactions and content licensing to high-profile litigation; he is also well-equipped to advise on advertising regulation and sponsorship agreements. Senior associate Oz Watson and senior counsel Xuyang Zhu are also recommended.Practice head(s):
Adam Rendle
Other key lawyers:
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Video games Tier 2
Taylor Wessing LLP's comprehensive client roster includes start-ups, investment funds and investors, big tech platforms, gaming developers and publishers. Commercial, data and IT specialist Graham Hann co-chairs the gaming and esports practice with Robert Fenner, a transactional expert with experience advising Chinese and Asian companies looking to expand on a global scale. Other recommended individuals include skilled IP advisor Mark Owen, and Adam Rendle, who guides companies through the entire lifecycle of their media assets.Practice head(s):
Graham Hann; Robert Fenner
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
JAGEX
THNDR Games
Sega Europe
Miniclip
1up ventures
Advanced publications
Bitkraft Ventures
Behaviour Interactive
Work highlights
- Advised Behaviour Interactive, a large Canadian video game studio, on its acquisition of SockMonkey Studios, an award-winning developer based in the UK.
- Advising SEGA’s European operations on various corporate, advisory and contentious matters.
- Advising Bitkraft Ventures, a global investment platform for gaming, Web3, and immersive tech, on a number of transactions, including its investment into Magicave Holdings Ltd.
Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil Tier 3
Bolstered by a strong international network, Taylor Wessing LLP is notable for its industry expertise in technology, media and telecoms, as well as its work in high-profile insolvency cases. Cryptocurrency and blockchain disputes are a growing area of significance, with the firm utilising its substantial tech client base to advise leading cryptocurrency lenders. The practice is co-led by Andrew Howell, a specialist in claims and regulatory investigations and David De Ferrars, known for his outstanding negotiation skills and multi-jurisdictional work. Nick Moser advises on contentious insolvency and fraud claims, with a particular focus on pension issues, and Julian Randall impresses with his considerable experience in claims and regulatory matters within the accounting sector.Practice head(s):
Andrew Howell; David de Ferrars
Other key lawyers:
Emma Allen; Nick Moser; Julian Randall
Testimonials
‘David de Ferrars is excellent. Practical, decisive, knowledgeable and engaged. A delight to work with. Jessie Prynne is all over the detail and thinks through a problem really effectively, identifying potential pitfalls before they materialize, and able to avoid them.’
‘The TW team is packed with intelligent and dedicated lawyers who truly roll up their sleeves for their clients. The style is collaborative, which is crucial when dealing with parties like me (i.e., a professional client). The team members bring a diverse range of personalities to the table, which is a refreshing change from the “cookie-cutter” teams seen so often at major firms.’
‘David de Ferrars – a hands-on partner who has seen a lot and brings wisdom, experience and a lot of good humour to the table.’
Key clients
International logistics company
Work highlights
Employment > Employee share schemes Tier 3
Trusted by clients ranging from early-stage companies to multinational corporations, Taylor Wessing LLP houses broad practice, spanning hirings and firings, global share plan design and compliance reviews. The team is also active on transactional mandates such as fundraisings and acquisitions, frequently assisting employee benefit trusts. Team head Ann Casey is frequently sought out by technology and life science start-ups. Claire Matthews, who joined from the Linklaters’ Singapore office in July 2022, is an authority on executive renumeration. Katie Lewis and Karen Bail further contribute to the incentives expertise at the firm.Practice head(s):
Ann Casey
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team was very quick to respond and always answered in an in-depth way.’
‘Claire Matthews was incredibly knowledgeable, kind and straightforward. Her expertise meant we were able to overcome a tricky issue which could have largely altered the course of our business direction. Claire offered many realistic and practical solutions.’
‘The team at Taylor Wessing have dealt with a wide range of issues related to various option schemes.’
‘Each of the team members I have dealt with has been knowledgeable and understanding of requirements, deadlines and reassurances required.’
‘Colin McCall; Ross McNaughton, Rachael Potts; and Ann Casey are all very supportive. Professional delivery.’
Key clients
MiroBio Limited
Eneus Energy Limited
Multiverse Limited
TodayTix Group
Five.AI
Terrascope Limited (trading as FATMAP)
Roadchef management team
Kantox Holding, Ltd
Kili Topco Limited
Bridgepoint Growth
Vehera Limited (trading as Storage Made Easy)
E-Space Inc
Bolero.net Limited
Safety Holdings, Inc. (doing business as SambaSafety)
SS8 Networks, Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised MiroBio Limited on the equity incentives aspects of its acquisition by Gilead for approximately $405m.
- Advised Eneus Energy on its Investment Agreement with US private equity firm Carlyle and Singaporean sovereign wealth fund GIC.
- Advising Kantox on its sale to French banking giant BNP Paribas.
Employment > Employers Tier 3
Taylor Wessing LLP specialises in employment work for tech, fintech and life sciences companies, particularly those based in the USA. Practice head Paul Callaghan is recommended for his specialism in advising North American companies operating in Europe. Also integral to the team is HR and internal matters expert Helen Farr. Further key names at the practice include Sean Nesbitt, Joe Aiston and Roxane Davey.Practice head(s):
Paul Callaghan
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘My firm works with Taylor Wessing on various areas (legal, regulatory, HR, company secretary, immigration) and the teams are all very professional, providing excellent advice and high quality work, capable of understanding customers’ need and working within tight deadlines’
‘I feel that the teams care about my firm’s needs and challenge, and value our relationship.’
‘Taylor Wessing has provided multiple streams of legal advice from large-scale outsourcing of multi-billion pounds of pension assets, TUPE, whistleblowing and post-termination restrictive covenant and bonus disputes. The ability to always deliver for the client irrespective of the complexity of the issues or the deadline.’
‘Helen Farr is an exceptional individual who when faced with complexity provides simple and pragmatic solutions for her clients. Always available to answer any issue, and is ably supported by her trusted and dependable associate, Roxanne Davey.’
‘A law firm that speaks business language.’
‘Paul Callaghan – rightfully the Head of the employment team. Just a brilliant lawyer and person. Very responsive, very pragmatic and just a pleasure to work with. Paul should be on the highest ranking possible.’
‘Taylor Wessing is the standout firm acting for tech, life sciences and retail companies. Paul Callaghan is acknowledged as the leading UK employment lawyer acting for US and Canadian companies doing business in the UK. He understands our business, is ultra-responsive and commercial.’
‘Sean Nesbitt is a leader in employment law. He is the go-to guy for unfair dismissal claims. His approach is without fail focused yet flexible. Sean always provides pragmatic, commercially and legally sound advice on employment law issues.’
Key clients
TodayTix Group
Eurofins Scientific (EUFI.PA)
Five.AI
Branch Metrics Limited
Celsius Limited
International French bank (Banque Transatlantique)
Kantox Holding Ltd
Menai Markets UK Ltd
Consensys Systems UK Limited
Jentry (International) Limited
Coherent Corporation
Fresha.com SV Limited
Laxman Narasimhan
Azenta Inc
Uptime
British Airways Pensions Services Limited
Cadogan Tate
Work highlights
Employment > Pensions: dispute resolution Tier 3
The pensions litigation team at Taylor Wessing LLP is headed by the ‘clever' and ‘totally committed' Mark Smith, who is especially experienced in the charities, financial services, media, transport, and logistics sectors. The practice is recommended for its work in pensions fraud cases, and also offers its clients assistance in cases of restructurings, as well as in matters brought by regulatory bodies, and rectification issues. Anna Taylor joined the team in January 2022 from rival Linklaters LLP, bringing extensive experience in advising companies and trustees on a breadth of pensions issues.Practice head(s):
Mark Smith
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A small team but its leader, Mark Smith, more than makes up for that.’
‘Mark Smith is the most hands-on partner with whom I work, which makes my job so much easier. Totally committed and very commercially aware.’
‘A seamless combination of the litigation and non-litigation practices.’
‘Mark Smith is a clever litigator with a great deal of technical knowledge, who is a pleasure to work with.’
Work highlights
- Advised the trustee of a large pension scheme in connection with a possible use of powers by The Pensions Regulator in relation to the refinancing of an employer group.
- Advised a number of employers on engagement with The Pensions Regulator as a result of significant breaches of the auto enrolment legislation.
- Advised the trustees of a number of pension schemes on the settlement of claims against former administrators and advisers in connection with historic benefits errors.
Insurance > Product liability: defendant Tier 3
The product liability and safety experts at Taylor Wessing LLP advise companies on product recalls, corrective action, product compliance, regulatory investigations and supply chain disputes. The firm operates in a range of sectors including tech, manufacturing, life sciences and automotives. Practice head Katie Chandler is experienced in handling coronial inquest proceedings and regulatory investigations. Tasmina Goraya works on regulatory and compliance issues relating to pharma and medical devices.Practice head(s):
Katie Chandler
Other key lawyers:
Tasmina Goraya; Edward Spencer
Testimonials
‘Led by Katie Chandler, the product liability team at Taylor Wessing has very quickly established itself at the top table. What sets Taylor Wessing apart is their experience in dealing with the full range of issues arising from medical devices and pharmaceuticals: regulatory investigations, inquests, product liability claims and civil follow-on claims in negligence.’
‘Partner Katie Chandler is exceptional, always on top of the detail and ensuring that clients are advised on merits, strategy, and what is in store in the future.’
‘Edward Spencer, Senior Counsel, is an obvious star of the future, managing complicated product liability problems across their full life cycle in multiple jurisdictions.’
‘We regularly work with Taylor Wessing on a global scale. In this matter, we have worked with their London office for a project in the UK and certain questions in relation to product liability.’
‘Katie Chandler was the partner in charge – she is superb when it comes to product liability issues! Katie has an outstanding legal understanding, fully understands the client’s needs and is very much committed finding the best solution for her client. We love working with her!’
Key clients
Abbott Laboratories
LivaNova Deutschland GmbH
Estrella Damm
Getac
Zeppelin GmbH
Anika Therapeutics
Bakker Magnetics
DC Thomson & Company Limited
Ruggable
Cochlear
Work highlights
- Acting for LivaNova in relation to the defence of product liability claims arising out of their manufacture and supply of medical device products involving multiple claimants and the global co-ordination of defences across multiple jurisdictions.
- Advising Anika Therapeutics Inc on a worldwide product recall of certain medical devices used for surgical interventions on tendons, peripheral nerves and joints to prevent the formation of post-surgical adhesions.
- Acting for a large German manufacturer of machinery in a dispute with a UK manufacturer and supplier of consumer goods relating to product safety standards and regulatory matters.
Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 3
The ‘extremely proactive and hard-working’ team at Taylor Wessing LLP works in conjunction with the firm’s corporate, finance, and tax teams to support clients on cross-border development and investment matters. Head of the real estate department Paul Lawrence regularly acts for international investors in the private wealth arena, while Matthew Swainston caters to joint ventures, as well as landlord and tenant transactions. Paul Leamy is well-versed in mixed-use retail and leisure schemes and Adam Marks collaborates with the firm's private wealth department to advise ultra high-net-worth families. Mark Rajenbach is knowledgeable of lease agreements, management-back transactions and portfolio sales and purchases in the hotel, leisure, and logistics sectors. Leona Ahmed joined the team from Addleshaw Goddard in May 2023 and is a key contact for Asian and Middle Eastern clients looking to invest in the UK.Practice head(s):
Paul Lawrence
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Swainston; Paul Leamy; Adam Marks; Mark Rajenbach; Leona Ahmed; Georgina Watt; Louise Tabott; Michael Helfgott; Jane Hilton; Chris Komodromou; Sarah Bolton
Key clients
Estrella Damm
Blackstone
Beamery
Nuclera Nucleics
Tastemade
Work highlights
- Acting for Blackstone (and previous owners) on all asset management work at St Katharine Docks.
- Advised Clivedale on the strategic pre-let of BP’s new HQ.
- Advised on the letting of 50,000 square feet to Diageo at Mercers’ Covent Garden estate.
Real estate > Construction: non-contentious Tier 3
Taylor Wessing LLP advises on complex, high-value matters for a diverse clientele including contractors, lenders, and management companies. The team is headed by Matthew Jones, who provides guidance on procurement, drafting, and negotiation of building and engineering contracts, as well as related construction agreements. David Quinlan offers expertise to clients involved in all facets of the procurement process, including contracting authorities, sponsors, and construction contractors. Senior associate Stephanie O’Hare, with her cross-sector experience in housing and leisure, advises on matters ranging from building contracts and pre-construction agreements to security documents and third-party rights.Practice head(s):
Matthew Jones
Other key lawyers:
David Quinlan; Stephanie O’Hare
Testimonials
‘Very strong team with capabilities across the board. Very commercial and personable. Very responsive.’
Key clients
R&F Properties
Cain International
Clearbell Capital
Blue Coast Capital
W. RE – Westminster Real Estate
PGIM
Various Development Finance Lenders
BentallGreenOak UK Advisors LLP
NG DevCo Limited
The Westbury Hotel Limited
Trammell Crow Company Logistics (Milton Keynes) Limited
Vestas Offshore Wind UK Limited
Real estate > Property finance Tier 3
Taylor Wessing LLP‘s group acts on senior, mezzanine and preferred equity lending across the spectrum of real estate assets. Martin Yells is a well-known advisor in debt funding for private equity sponsor backed borrowers and asset backed financings. Heather Buttle continues to be involved in development transactions within the care home, student accommodation and the professional rented sectors. Debt financing partner Jonathan Marks, and Edward Manser, are other key figures.Practice head(s):
Martin Yells; Heather Buttle; Jonathan Marks
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Experience over a long track record and able to call on this to provide advice on specific negotiation points, especially where “market standard” is being debated. Flexibility on fee discussions and dealing with cost-conscious clients.’
‘Worked with Ed Manser for multiple transactions and given the experience, each deal becomes quicker as many issues were discussed before or could be discussed with reference to precedent transactions, resulting in increased confidence, familiarity and speedier outcomes.’
‘The main real estate partner we instruct is always available when needed. Stays actively involved in transactions.’
Key clients
Wells Fargo Bank
SIR Theme Parks Limited
Hotel owning entity
Precede Capital Partners
Cain International
Federated Hermes, Inc.
Deutsche Bank
Tristan Capital Partners
1Box Holdings BV
PGIM
Work highlights
- Advised Wells Fargo in its arrangement and underwriting of a £350m debt facility for abrdn-managed AIPUT (Airport Industrial Property Unit Trust).
- Acted for Precede Capital Partners on a £227,700,000 facility agreement provided by Precede and Nomura to Downing to finance the development of three towers located in Manchester, constituting 1,790 individual and multifamily units. The transaction was made more complex by a Guernsey limited partnership and unit trust structure.
- Advised Tristan Capital Partners on a €59,250,000 facility to Anacap Financial Partners to finance the acquisition of South Station, a freehold office asset located in Massy, Paris. The transaction was made more complex as the financing was structured by way of on lending the funds from a Lux Holdco to the French Propco by way of a back-to-back French law, French language loan.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 3
Taylor Wessing LLP advises a number of major institutional, residential and private clients on a broad-range of matters including rights of light, dilapidation, service charges and injunctions. Team head and 'star partner' Saleem Fazal splits his time between London and Liverpool, advising clients on rent reviews, vacant possession strategy and dilapidations. The ‘practical and reliable’ Stephen Burke specialises in lease renewals, and recovery of rent and break notices, whilst the 'top-notch' Alicia Convery handles lease renewals and rights of light issues.Practice head(s):
Saleem Fazal
Other key lawyers:
Stephen Burke; Alicia Convery; Emma Archer
Testimonials
‘Stephen Burke responds quickly and efficiently to requests – he listens to our concerns and has become a key member of our team. He is practical and reliable.’
‘Stephen Burke has a very pragmatic approach.’
‘Alicia Convery is top-notch. I am super impressed with her knowledge and litigation skills – she is a pleasure to work with and really bright.’
‘Taylor Wessing operates as a team, which is always a pleasure. The individuals know their brief well, and are happy to work together in an effective manner.’
‘Saleem Fazal has excellent legal knowledge combined with the ability to lead both the client and the internal team. A pleasure to work with.’
‘Highly organised and on top of the detail – everything is at their fingertips as and when we need it.’
‘A very good team exuding confidence.’
‘Saleem Fazal is the star partner here. Easy to deal with, thoughtful and great intellectual skills.’
Key clients
Teesworks Limited
Aik Immobilien-Investmentgesellschaft mbH
Blackstone/Revantage
Canada Life
Kessler Group
Carrigmay
Boggi (UK) Limited
Edyn
County Hall Freehold Limited
Ceil Capital
Mundy Estates
Work highlights
- Advising Teeswork Limited in connection with its interests in the former Steelworks site in Teesside stretching to some 2600 acres and which represents one of the largest brownfield development sites in Europe.
- Advising Immobilien-Investmentgesellschaft on obtaining possession of the premises where their tenant fell into insolvency and a sublicensee claimed security of tenure and relief from forfeiture; an order for possession was obtained, along with judgment for damages and costs of over £2m.
- Advising Blackstone on contentious issues arising from its real estate portfolio at St Katherine Docks, London and the Colmore Building, Birmingham, included advising on the impact of COVID-19 and the Commercial Rent (Coronavirus) Act, dilapidations and tenant covenant compliance.
Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity Tier 3
Now jointly led by Victoria Hordern and Chris Jeffery, Taylor Wessing LLP’s data and cyber practice has notable expertise in the digital health, technology, and financial services sectors. The firm’s strong tech focus means the group is well-placed to advise on emerging and novel technology issues, including AI, blockchain, and the privacy implications of facial recognition technology and biometric data. Hodern advises on all aspects of EU and UK data protection and privacy compliance, while Jeffery advises US and global tech clients looking to expand into European markets.Practice head(s):
Victoria Hordern; Chris Jeffery
Testimonials
‘The Taylor Wessing team can always be relied upon to pair regulatory expertise and technology knowledge together. Paired with a strong pragmatism when delivering their advice makes them valuable partners for us.’
‘Victoria Hordern is a great head and responds to us incredibly quickly. We have appreciated the out of the box thinking in their tender submissions.’
Key clients
Burger King
Owlstone
Work highlights
- Provided support to Burger King in managing its digital privacy compliance operations and in a data mapping exercise.
- Advising Owlstone on the data protection implications of its Breath Biopsy® VOC Atlas.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech Tier 3
Taylor Wessing LLP is sought out by banks, financial service providers, investors and emerging fintech companies on investments, fundraisings, M&A, litigation and regulatory work. The practice is jointly headed up by four partners: Graham Hann is a go-to lawyer for transformational projects concerning IT and data; venture capital specialist Angus Miln has a strong book of work for emerging and high-growth technology companies; Charlotte Hill is an expert in financial services regulation, and Howard Palmer is noted for his work with fintech companies on venture capital investments. Other key figures include Clare Reynolds, who has in-depth knowledge of operational resilience and cloud computing.Practice head(s):
Angus Miln; Howard Palmer; Graham Hann; Charlotte Hill
Other key lawyers:
Tandeep Minhas; Josef Fuss; Richard Viegas; Sian Skelton; Clare Reynolds
Key clients
Kantox
Bitpanda Custody (fka Trustology)
SEON
Monzo
Curve
Thought machine
Kuda
Dawn Capital
Titanbay
Bankingly
interactive investor
Argent
Work highlights
- Advised Kantox on its sale to French banking giant BNP Paribas.
- Advised Dawn Capital on investments into Fonoa, Elwood Technologies’ $70m Series A funding, and Cover Genius’ $70m Series D.
- Advised Thought Machine on its $160m Series D funding round led by Temasek, with participation from Intesa Sanpaolo and Morgan Stanley.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Advertising & marketing Tier 3
Taylor Wessing LLP 's team handles a broad range of matters for clients in the technology sector, including investigations, copy clearance, and green claims. Practice head Adam Rendle has a great deal of experience in issues relating to media assets, content licensing, and advertising regulations. Senior associates Simon Jupp and Oz Watson are known for representing a number of brands in matters concerning sponsorship and influencer agreements; in addition to assisting technology businesses and start ups with the appointment of advertising agencies and IP rights.Practice head(s):
Adam Rendle
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team brings a wealth of experience and global perspective to questions of media practice that is unparalleled.’
‘They have a depth of understanding about the unique needs and specialised concerns of their media clients. They are detail-oriented, and creative in providing options and approaches. Rather than merely explaining the legal perils involved in a course of action, they always provide practical advice that is designed to help their clients achieve their goals while minimizing the legal risks.’
Key clients
Engine Group Holdings LLC
Heycar
William Grant & Sons
Work highlights
- Advised Engine Group on the sale of its UK business to tech and data-driven growth consultancy, Next Fifteen Communications Group, for an enterprise value of £77.5m.
- Advising William Grant & Sons (Hendrick’s, Glenfiddich and other spirits brands) on one of its brands Monkey Shoulder’s sponsorships of Boomtown music festival, and Secret Garden Party.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Reputation management Tier 3
The IP and media team at Taylor Wessing LLP acts for a range of prominent clients across the technology, media, life sciences and private wealth sectors. The cross-departmental group handles reputation management issues surrounding defamation, online harassment, unlawful data processing and privacy. Practice head Niri Shanmuganathan is experienced acting for both claimants and defendants, with much of his work concerning the prevention of intrusive or false stories being published in the media. Michael Yates is an information litigator who is typically instructed by individuals and companies on defamation, privacy, data protection and breach of confidence matters.Practice head(s):
Niri Shanmuganathan
Other key lawyers:
Adam Rendle; Michael Yates; Tim Pinto
Testimonials
‘A Rolls Royce firm with many significant and leading groups in a variety of different practice areas, none more so than the media team. They provide significant reputation management advice to companies and UHNWIs.’
‘Niri Shanmuganathan – longstanding and significant leader in this field. Having acted for both claimants and defendants over the years (more than 25!), he is well placed and often the first on anyone’s go-to list when requiring help in a reputation management crisis. A class act.’
‘Michael Yates – recently appointed partner who specialises in all aspects of reputation management, information, cyber and media law. Very smart cookie. Nice guy, extremely user friendly.’
‘The team is excellent across the board, and highly responsive to client requests, including on emergency bases.’
‘Tim Pinto is exceptionally responsive to client requests, and is expert in the areas of defamation and libel. He is a pleasure to work with.’
‘Taylor Wessing run a slick outfit, there is no weak link. They are quick, efficient and hugely knowledgeable. High end clients trust them for a reason.’
‘Michael Yates gets to the nub of the issue quickly and gives clear and strategic advice. Clients adore him and feel immediately reassured by him in times of crisis. He is a delight to work with and an extremely safe pair of hands. He is unfazed by his opponents and the UHNW world in which he is operating. Michael is technically excellent and acts with integrity.’
‘Niri Shanmuganathan’s practical experience is unparalleled. He is always able to coolly assess a situation without flusters and tap into his experience to navigate most efficiently, often without fanfare or undue confrontation.’
Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 4
Taylor Wessing LLP‘s growing team advises on tax elements of a broad range of high value and cross-border transactions, and has notable sector expertise in the technology and life sciences, private wealth, and real estate industries. Team lead Graham Samuel-Gibbon advises multinational clients on both transactional and non-transactional tax, and has particular strength in tax issues related to IP rights. Peter Jackson is a key contact for the real estate and private wealth sectors, while Liz Wilson additionally covers private equity and technology, media, and communications. James Ross advises on M&A transactions and corporate restructurings.Practice head(s):
Graham Samuel-Gibbon
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Technically superb and critical to the successful outcome of the transaction, providing guidance and support to the trustee on all matters relating to the deal. I felt I was superbly advised.’
‘Liz Wilson in the corporate tax team is super sharp, technically superb, with clarity of delivery on difficult matters.’
‘Efficient, focusing on the issues, working hard, clever solutions.’
‘Graham Samuel-Gibbon has been my key contact. He is a brilliant tax expert, focusing on the relevant issues, providing solutions, and communicating well.’
Key clients
TodayTix Group
Damn Brewery (UK) Limited
Cain International
Kantox Holding, Ltd
Eneus Energy Limited
Management team of Theramex
Terrascope Limited (Trading as FATMAP)
Rockpool Investments
Anne’s Day Limited
Lightbulb ES Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for US-based e-commerce group TodayTix on its acquisition of UK immersive film and television company, Secret Cinema.
- Advising Eneus Energy on its $3bn Investment Agreement with US private equity firm Carlyle and Singaporean sovereign wealth fund GIC.
- Acting for Cain International on its £550m logistics portfolio acquisition from Firethorn Trust.
Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious Tier 4
Taylor Wessing LLP is typically instructed by major banks to represent their senior executives in market and product investigations, often with transatlantic elements, including around whistleblowing, trading and benchmarking. The firm has lately also been developing a significant focus on the cryptocurrency space, and is increasingly active on mandates which combine those areas of focus. Charlotte Hill heads up the UK financial services regulatory group, while Andrew Howell oversees the disputes and investigations practice.Practice head(s):
Andrew Howell; Charlotte Hill
Other key lawyers:
Laurence Lieberman; Julian Randall; David McCluskey; Richard Viegas
Key clients
Former CFO of Carillion plc
White Oak
Work highlights
- Acting for a former CFO of Carillion plc in relation to the director disqualification proceedings commenced against eight former directors of Carillion by the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
- Advising White Oak on recovery of funds due to it following its purchase of receivables through a structure operated by Greensill Capital UK which collapsed into administration in 2021.
Employment > Immigration Tier 4
Taylor Wessing LLP is noted for the strength of its global capabilities, both due to the wider firm’s presence internationally, and the team’s global focus. The group has ‘exceptional expertise’ in tech-related work. Practice head Sean Nesbitt leads on the firm’s integrated employment offering as co-head of the firm’s international employment, pensions, and mobility offering, while Charlie Pring and Vikki Wiberg focus exclusively on immigration mandates. Pring heads the team’s work for in-bound work from North America and has extensive experience working with tech sector clients, while Wiberg handles in-bound work from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East in addition to HNW matters.Practice head(s):
Sean Nesbitt; Charlie Ping; Vikki Wiberg
Testimonials
‘Taylor Wessing provides professional service. Their people are friendly and helpful. They provide accurate information.’
‘Vikki Wiberg and her team are very friendly. They provide accurate, up-to-date and useful information.‘
‘A knowledgeable, efficient and professional immigration team who truly do know what they are doing! We feel confident in their capabilities.’
‘Taylor Wessing’s immigration team is very customer oriented; they take time to understand our business needs. This is followed by providing the relevant solutions such as advice, visa processing etc. in a very efficient and timely fashion.‘
‘Our team works closely with Charlie Pring. He has become our trusted partner in the area of immigration. We have peace of mind with him; we know that when we give a case to him, he will handle it well, and our business needs will be fulfilled.‘
‘I highly recommend this firm for its exceptional expertise in handling legal matters for tech companies. Their team culture is second to none, as they foster collaboration and promote diversity. What I appreciate most about them is their willingness to explore innovative solutions, like utilising new visas.‘
‘The firm’s personnel are exceptional at cultivating connections and fostering rapport. Interacting with them is a seamless and delightful experience. While I value our occasional in-person coffee meetings, I’m equally satisfied with the remarkable progress our virtual relationship has made.‘
Key clients
COMPASS Pathways
Nuclera
Sonangol Offshore Services
Beacon Platform
Tavant Technologies
Burger King UK
TodayTix Limited
PetroChina International Company Limited
NEC Europe Limited
Coherent Corp
Work highlights
Employment > Pensions (non-contentious) Tier 4
Taylor Wessing LLP‘s advisory pensions practice is noted as being formed of ‘excellent technical specialists' and is led by Mark Smith. The department utilises its cross-practice expertise to assist clients in pensions issues involving aspects such as cyber-security and data protection. It also has a particular expertise in the pensions aspects of corporate restructurings. Anna Taylor is a key name for defined benefit schemes work. Associates Georgie Wardrop and Afshan Mallik are also names to note within the team.Practice head(s):
Mark Smith
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent technical specialists in the field of pensions. They are easy to work with and give good, constructive advice.’
‘Mark Smith is a first-rate pensions lawyer – technically excellent.’
‘The people I have dealt with at Taylor Wessing have an extremely broad and deep understanding of UK pension law.’
‘Excellent on the intersection between cyber and pensions.’
‘A team of expert pension lawyers.’
‘A highly professional and experienced team with strong communication skills and depth of knowledge.’
‘Mark Smith is excellent. His legal analysis of complex situations provides clarity and clear recommendations for next steps.’
‘Mark Smith is very efficient, very quick with responses and his work is outstanding.’
Key clients
Trustee of the Merchant Navy Ratings Pension Fund
Trustees of the Visa UK Pension Plan
Allied Universal
Trustees of the Royal British Legion Staff Pension Fund
SA Damm
Kessler Group
Pi Trustees
Trustee of the Sedgemoor Group Pension Fund
Work highlights
- Advised the trustee of the Merchant Navy Ratings Pension Fund in relation to a range of issues, including the provision of promised benefits under the scheme.
- Advised the trustees of Visa’s UK defined benefit pension scheme in relation to a number of important matters, including the provision of promised benefits under the scheme.
- Advised Allied Universal (which owns G4S) on the acquisition of Total Security Services Limited and the pensions aspects of the transaction.
Real estate > Planning Tier 4
At Taylor Wessing LLP, the planning team sits within the real estate, infrastructure, and energy department. The group has a strong background in the hotel, hospitality and leisure sectors, as well as the luxury living, build-to-rent, and private rented sectors. Alistair Watson leads the planning team with 28 years’ experience advising on significant projects concerning stadia, airports, and real estate developments. Promoted to partner in 2022, Emma Tait continues to bolster the team’s involvement in urban regeneration projects.Practice head(s):
Alistair Watson
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘This team genuinely understands the client and its needs.’
‘A personal touch and clear desire to see important tasks through to completion.’
Key clients
Cain International
S. A. Damm
BentallGreenOak
R&F Properties
Comer Homes
Atenor
Brentford FC
Southampton FC
AFC Bournemouth
Bleeding Heart Restaurant Group
McLaren Property
The Westbury Hotel Limited
Fortress
Tritax
Canada Life
Work highlights
- Advising Estrella Damm on it’s acquisition of Eagle Brewery from Carlsberg and on the long-running project to expand the brewery and make it more sustainable.
- Advised BentallGreenOak’s on the planning and highways agreements to facilitate the development of a logistics pipeline and advised on planning matters relating to the acquisition and financing of its portfolio.
- Advising the Comer Homes Group on all of its development sites across London and the South East, including major schemes in the London Borough of Barnet and the Royal Borough of Greenwich.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > PATMA: Trade mark attorneys Tier 4
Roland Mallinson leads the brand management practice at Taylor Wessing LLP, which is adept at assisting clients with clearing, protecting, exploiting, and enforcing brands across the globe. Its client roster encompasses companies in the technology, media, consumer and retail, and life sciences sectors. Qualified French trade mark attorney France Delord is a notable member of the team, which also saw the addition of Alison Cole in April 2022 from Murgitroyd, and she has extensive expertise in contentious and non-contentious trade mark-related matters, as well as commercial mandates, such as licensing.Practice head(s):
Roland Mallinson
Other key lawyers:
France Delord; Alison Cole; Julia King
Testimonials
‘The team is made up of people with different backgrounds and qualifications, providing efficient advice at all levels of queries.’
Key clients
William Grant & Sons
The Bazooka Companies, Inc.
Europcar Mobility Group
Southampton Football Club
Orange
KPMG
Myenergi Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for William Grant & Sons in a case against Lidl regarding its lookalike Hendrick’s gin product sold by Lidl Gin.
- Advising The Bazooka Companies on the defence of its candy/confectionery product in the shape of a baby’s bottle, which has been sold in the millions around the EU for many decades and has recently been threatened.
- Acting for Europcar Group on the management of the trade mark portfolio owned by various German entities.
Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 5
The financial services and regulation team at Taylor Wessing LLP has ‘extensive knowledge’ in the fintech arena, advising on a broad range of matters concerning payment services, consumer lending, wealth management and banking. Praised as ‘approachable and great in communications’, Charlotte Hill leads the team and acts for banks, payment service providers, investment and asset managers, as well as brokers.Practice head(s):
Charlotte Hill
Other key lawyers:
Clare Reynolds; Katie Fry-Paul
Testimonials
‘The team at Taylor Wessing are incredibly helpful with our billing approach, request for secondees and collaboration. They are an extension of our in-house team.’
‘Clare Reynolds remains our “go-to” lawyer in financial services regulatory work and continues to build a team of excellent lawyers.’
‘The team has extensive knowledge of financial regulation in the UK. The team is service-minded.’
‘The Taylor Wessing financial services regulatory team, led by Charlotte Hill, has a sound knowledge and understanding of the UK regulatory principles/rules and regulators’ expectations. The team’s strength lies in the way in which they provide precise and tailor-made advice and solutions to banks, especially to international banks in this ever-changing financial environment.’
‘Katie Fry-Paul has extensive knowledge of financial law. She is service-minded, flexible and provides advice and assistance in a timely manner.’
‘Charlotte Hill has a long-standing experience in the UK financial services sector gained over two decades through working with the regulators and top tier legal firms. She is very approachable and great in communications; she always quickly articulates the issues or queries the bank is facing, points out the key areas of concerns and delivers accurate solutions within reasonable budget.’
Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals) Tier 5
Taylor Wessing LLP has in-depth expertise in a range of financial crime investigations, ranging from tax fraud to money laundering and insider trading. The team maintains a strong client base which comprises CEOs, compliance managers, and industry experts, and is praised for defending individuals in bribery and corruption investigations brought by the SFO and FCA, as well as for demonstrating a growing presence in the cryptocurrency disputes sphere. Practice head David De Ferrars has more than 20 years of experience leading on major financial fraud cases, while David McCluskey shows ‘true pedigree’ in the international crime and regulatory space. Laurence Lieberman focuses on corporate investigations, while Richard Viegas and Tim Strong are also recommended.Practice head(s):
Andrew Howell; David de Ferrars
Other key lawyers:
Tim Strong; David McCluskey; Laurence Lieberman; Nick Moser; Richard Viegas; Emma Allen; Lorna Bramich; Samantha Brendish; Alexandra Boreham
Testimonials
‘David McCluskey has true pedigree in this area of law having been a partner at boutique firm Peters and Peters. He applies. His experience and expertise to TWs corporate clients.’
Work highlights
Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail Tier 5
The banking litigation practice at Taylor Wessing LLP acts on a wide variety of matters, with expertise in hedge fund and financial institution litigation, cryptocurrency disputes, and insolvency-related disputes. The team is able to rely on the experience of the fraud department of the firm, both domestically and internationally. Andrew Howell and Laurence Lieberman lead the practice, the latter with specific expertise in life sciences and financial services. Richard Viegas and Nick Storrs are also noted.Practice head(s):
Andrew Howell; Laurence Lieberman
Other key lawyers:
Richard Viegas; Nick Storrs
Key clients
White Oak
MUUST Holdings
Work highlights
- Advising White Oak regarding recovery of funds following its purchase of receivables through a structure operated by Greensill Capital UK Limited which collapsed into administration in 2021.
- Acting for MUSST Holdings in its successful claims for breach of contract against leading hedge fund Astra Asset Management.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: premium Tier 5
The ‘formidable’ practice at Taylor Wessing LLP acts for large UK and international organisations on leading commercial disputes, regularly handling complex, multijurisdictional matters. Andrew Howell is the head of the disputes and investigation practice, with expertise in the financial and professional services sectors, as well as professional negligence. ‘Unique lawyer‘ Katie Chandler has ‘outstanding legal skills, fully understands the client’s needs and has a good sense of humour‘, and is noted alongside ‘out of the box thinker‘ Richard Viegas. At associate level, ‘superb’ Lucy Waddicor is noted.Practice head(s):
Andrew Howell
Other key lawyers:
Katie Chandler; Richard Viegas; Lucy Waddicor; David de Ferrars; Stuart Broom; Julian Randall; Shane Gleghorn
Testimonials
‘Stuart Broom s a very result oriented solicitor. He was the lead partner of our case. He was very fast in his replies. He and the team always delivered in a timely manner.’
‘They’re a formidable team who understands what is needed and what is necessary. Their presence on a deal is always reassuring because the team’s collaborative knowledge and skill sets make them the best at what they do.’
‘We recently moved to Taylor Wessing – our experience has been a happy one.’
‘Richard Viegas is exceptional. A lateral, out of the box thinker, who is nimble and completely on top of the case, available 24/7. We are lucky to be working with Richard. He ‘gets’ commercial, has excellent business acumen, thinks ahead, and in my opinion, one of the best litigators in London.’
‘Lucy Waddicor is superb. She has granular knowledge of matters at hand and is always on the ball. She gave us great confidence and is a wonderful person to work with.’
‘We are regularly working with Taylor Wessing on a global scale. This matter involved the London team – they are client oriented, hands on, know the industry and fully understand the client’s needs. Highly recommended!’
‘Katie Chandler is a unique lawyer – outstanding legal skills, fully understands the client’s needs and has a good sense of humour! Katie and her team have assisted us in very difficult negotiations – Katie knows how to fight for her clients!’
Key clients
MUSST Holdings
Mr Zafar Khan (former CFO of Carillion plc)
Konkola Copper Mines Plc
Sidawi v Rawi
Ericsson
Grant Thornton
Sowareen
Work highlights
- Acting for Mr Zafar Khan in relation to an investigation by the Enforcement Division of the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) into the affairs of Carillion plc.
- Acted for Konkola Copper Mines plc, the second defendant, in the long running and well publicised environmental group litigation brought by 3,690 residents of the Chingola district of Zambia.
- Acting for MUSST Holdings in its successful claims for breach of contract against leading hedge fund Astra Asset Management.
Real estate > Construction: contentious Tier 5
Taylor Wessing LLP represents developers and industry leaders in the real estate, infrastructure, and energy sectors, including a focus on mixed-use development schemes, build-to-rent investors, and public sector clients. Spearheading the team is Jonathan Hutt, who specialises in dispute avoidance and resolution regarding disputes under all major forms of contracts.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Hutt
Other key lawyers:
David Franklin; Rebecca May
Testimonials
‘First class construction practice for some of the largest London building projects.’
‘Jonathan Hutt is a very bright, tactically astute, safe and calm pair of hands.’
‘David Franklin is an associate to watch, a partner in the making, hard-working, calm, and very efficient.’
Key clients
R&F Properties
Brentford Football Club
Essential Living
Work highlights
Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates) Tier 5
Acting on behalf of clients in the technology, pharmaceutical, and finance industries, Taylor Wessing LLP advises on the full scope of financial crime, routinely dealing with cross-border investigations involving HMRC enquiries, tax fraud, and insider trading. The team is experienced in crypto exchange and investment disputes, with co-head David De Ferrars boasting expertise in fraud and asset tracing within the technology sector. Fellow co-head Andrew Howell is an expert on complex regulatory investigations, while Tim Strong handles international commercial disputes. Both Laurence Lieberman and Richard Viegas regularly represent financial institutions and accountancy firms. Other key figures include 'standout practitioner' David McCluskey.Practice head(s):
Andrew Howell; David de Ferrars
Other key lawyers:
Tim Strong; David McCluskey; Andrew Howell; Julian Randall; Laurence Lieberman; Richard Viegas; Stuart Broom; Emma Allen; James Bryden; Samantha Brendish; Lorna Bramich; Alexandra Boreham; Gemma Broughall
Testimonials
‘David McCluskey is the standout practitioner. His pedigree is white collar crime and FCA/financial services work, representing individuals and applies those skills and understanding to the corporate clients.’
Work highlights
Finance > Acquisition finance Tier 6
Led by Martin Yells, Taylor Wessing LLP provides ‘high-quality advice’ to corporates and private equity firms engaged in mid-market acquisition finance mandates. A significant amount of the work revolves around the tech sector, including the provision of debt financing to later stage venture-backed clients of the firm. The ‘hardworking’ Lerika Le Grange is a ‘first-rate banking lawyer’, and is a key member of the versatile team by virtue of her deep and wide expertise across new money and distressed debt/restructuring transactions.Practice head(s):
Martin Yells
Other key lawyers:
Lerika Le Grange; Fiona Coady
Testimonials
‘The superb team provides high-quality advice.’
‘The hardworking Lerika Le Grange is a first-rate banking lawyer.’
Key clients
Digital 9 Infrastructure plc
Hilton Food Group plc
Ecora Resources plc
CentralNic Group plc
NoteMachine / Eurochange
Inflexion Private Equity Partners / K2 Partnering Solutions
EA-RS Fire Engineering Limited
Rutland Partners / JSM Group
Shield Therapeutics plc
Inflexion Private Equity Partners / Virgin Experience Days
PNC Business Credit
Bridgepoint Advisors II Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Digital 9 on a revolving credit facility of £375m (plus an uncommitted accordion for a further £200m) to support the company in continuing to make strategic acquisitions in the digital infrastructure sector.
- Advised meat and specialist protein product processor Hilton Foods Group PLC on the refinancing of all of its existing debt facilities (which included the multi-currency revolving and term facilities we advised HFG on in 2017 and a bridge financing we advised on in late 2021) with a new unsecured multi-currency revolving and term investment grade facilities agreement, in part to support the strategic acquisition of Foppen and the Dutch Seafood Company.
- Acting on the refinancing of the CentralNic Group via syndicated term and revolving loan facilities.
Finance > Corporate restructuring & insolvency Tier 6
Taylor Wessing LLP provides a ‘flexible and responsive’ service to IPs, corporates and lenders across a broad range of mid-market restructuring and insolvency matters. Amy Patterson is ‘extremely thorough and user friendly’ on contentious and non-contentious matters, including within the real estate sector. The firm’s overarching technology sector strength and IP expertise also informs a considerable amount of work within the insolvency space. In this context, Stephen O’Grady is particularly adept at advising crypto/blockchain participants on risk management and distressed opportunities. Team head Nick Moser is particularly effective at helping creditors realise value from capital structures involving ABL products.Practice head(s):
Nick Moser
Other key lawyers:
Amy Patterson; Richard Viegas; Stephen O’Grady; Lorna Bramich; Kirsten Fulton-Fleming; Luke Viner; Emilie Kennedy
Testimonials
‘They are flexible and receptive to suggestions as to how we can both work together, to ensure that their product is bespoke and there is no duplication of effort.’
‘They are flexible and responsive.’
‘Amy Patterson is extremely thorough and user friendly.’
‘Amy Patterson is very sharp but with an effective disarming approach. A genuine pleasure to work with and my first port of call for insolvency and restructuring matters in England.’
Key clients
Trinity Investments DAC
Deluxe Media
Arcadia
United Fintech Global Limited
White Oak
City of London Group Plc
Lightbulb
Statar Mining
Work highlights
- Acting on a complex cross-border financial restructuring in the clean energy sector across approximately 15 lender entities.
- Advising White Oak regarding recovery of funds due to it following its purchase of receivables through a structure operated by Greensill Capital UK Limited which collapsed into administration in 2021.
- Acting for Trinity Investments Designated Activity Company on its loan management, restructuring, workout strategy and asset management following its acquisition of the £400m distressed loan portfolio from NatWest secured against shopping centres across the UK.
Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 7
A litany of blue-chip corporate clients turn to the competition group at Taylor Wessing LLP for its expertise in handling multi-jurisdictional merger control matters. Team lead Paolo Palmigiano, a dual-qualified (English and Italian) practitioner, is noted for his experience advising clients in regulators sectors such as telecommunications and media, financial services, technology and life sciences sectors.Practice head(s):
Paolo Palmigiano
Other key lawyers:
Louisa Penny
Key clients
The Office Group
Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 7
Taylor Wessing LLP's London practice houses experts in arbitrations arising out of the life sciences, fintech, telecoms, and transportation sectors. Andrew Howell is global co-head of international disputes; Karel Daele is Mishcon de Reya LLP's former arbitration head; and Nick Storrs is 'highly commercial and a real fighter'.Practice head(s):
Andrew Howell; Karel Daele; Nick Storrs
Other key lawyers:
Laurence Lieberman; Elizabeth Montpetit; Jessica Thomas
Testimonials
‘Ready to go the extra mile, expanding existing knowledge with completely new issues and sector specifics.’
‘Top-class practice that is able to go toe to toe with anyone on the full range of disputes.’
‘Taylor Wessing has an increasingly strong practice in this area, particularly following the recruitment of Nick Storrs and Karel Daele.’
‘Nick Storrs is highly commercial and a real fighter. He sees straight to the heart of the legal and commercial issues, and where the pressure points are, which allows him to achieve the best possible result for his clients.’
‘Through Nick Storrs, the law firm has significant expertise in disputes in the natural resources and oil and gas sectors.’
‘Karel Daele is a great leader, and has the best intuition about how to present a case to the tribunal and get the best results for clients.’
‘Shows good commercial sense and it resolutely aims to achieve the best result for its clients.’
‘Elizabeth Montpetit is very knowledgeable, clear and persuasive. Tribunals listen to her attentively.’
Key clients
Kingdom of Belgium
RSM Production Corporation
Work highlights
- Representing Blazo Tasev in a $1.5bn UNCITRAL arbitration against the Republic of North Macedonia, in relation to the unfair treatment and expropriation of mining investments.
- Acting for one of the largest generic Pharma companies in the world in an arbitration concerning complex contractual and scientific claims that relate to the extraction of pain relief medicine from biological material.
- Representing an Indian real estate development group in arbitral proceedings against its former joint venture partner, concerning assets valued at $3bn.
Finance > Asset based lending
Taylor Wessing LLP > Firm Profile
Taylor Wessing LLP is a leading international law firm, working with clients in the world’s most dynamic industries and helping them succeed by advising on their business throughout their life cycle. Specialising in technology, media and communications, life sciences and private wealth, the firm acts for 32 of the world’s top 50 brands; some the world’s most exciting start-ups; and some of the world’s wealthiest families. A diverse client base allows the firm to advise on more than just the law. Experts play an essential role in advising clients on business growth and protection, while introducing them to new people, new markets and fresh perspectives that will help their business flourish. Collaboration is key to Taylor Wessing’s success. It has over 300 partners and 1,100 lawyers, spanning 29 offices in 17 jurisdictions around the world.
Types of work undertaken
Technology, media and communications: Taylor Wessing’s technology, media and communications group is a leader in its field. The firm acts for clients throughout the eco-system, from start-ups through to global giants, often acting internationally. The firm’s full-service intellectual property offering provides clients with deep sector knowledge and experience, while its reputation management offering is recognised as being market leading. The firm is well positioned to advise on media and technology convergence issues due to the strengths of its technology and IT practices and its well-regarded corporate expertise in this sector. The firm also has a dedicated Tech City office at Second Home, London’s most high-profile community of entrepreneurs and creative businesses, focusing on UK and international tech start-ups and more established tech companies.
Life sciences: The firm’s life sciences group is renowned for patent litigation, licensing work, corporate, venture capital, research and development and regulatory. Taylor Wessing acts for clients across the entire industry, from technology to medical device companies, and is able to spot emerging trends and see the bigger picture. The group consists of one of the strongest and best-known patent litigation teams in Europe as well as experts in regulatory, EU law, competition and corporate, all working hand-in-hand to provide tailor-made solutions for complex tasks and problems. The firm’s extensive experience of coordinating highly technical parallel actions in multiple jurisdictions enables it to develop innovative strategies, to manage not only complex litigation but to help clients in other complex business transactions.
Private wealth: The cross-departmental private wealth group has been recognised as a market leader for many years. Taylor Wessing is exceptional for a large international law firm in having a substantial private wealth capability, serving a large number of major families and their offices. The firm offers a fully integrated service for the ultra-wealthy who need expert and joined-up advice on personal wealth structures, international tax planning, commercial and real estate investments, reputation management and immigration issues. It acts for many of the world’s wealthiest families, providing independent and sound advice based on insight, knowledge and technical expertise. It is one of few international firms providing an integrated service covering both private client and corporate needs.
Energy: Taylor Wessing has a strong track record of advising companies, investors and developers in both the traditional and renewable energy sectors. Taylor Wessing is clear on the issues and opportunities throughout the value chain and advises a full range of industry participants, from the early-stage cleantech investor to full commercialisation of technologies, to the development and financing of renewable energy projects. The firm has deep experience of advising on cleantech, renewable energy, water, waste, utilities, and developers and investors in the traditional energy sector. The firm’s renewable energy practice was involved in some of Europe’s earliest windfarms and continues to play an active role in the renewables field, while the firm’s internationally recognised capability in venture capital and IP provides for unrivalled experience in cleantech. The firm is also experienced in water privatisation and acting for clients directly involved with waste management, disposal and treatment, as well as waste-to-energy. The firm advises utilities, developers and investors in the traditional energy sector, appreciating the issues they face as energy demand continues to rise and environmental issues come to the fore.
International: the firm has offices in Amsterdam, Beijing, Berlin, Bratislava, Brno, Brussels, Budapest, Cambridge, Dubai, Dublin, Düsseldorf, Eindhoven, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Kiev, Klagenfurt, London, London TechFocus, Liverpool, Menlo Park/Silicon Valley, Munich, New York, Paris, Prague, Seoul, Shanghai, Vienna and Warsaw.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
UK managing partner | Shane Gleghorn | ||
UK senior partner | Dominic FitzPatrick | ||
Real estate, planning and environment | Paul Lawrence | ||
Construction and engineering | Matthew Jones | ||
Restructuring and corporate recovery | Nick Moser | ||
Banking and finance | Martin Yells | ||
Employment and pensions | Paul Callaghan | ||
Financial services regulatory | Charlotte Hill | ||
Tax and incentives | Graham Samuel-Gibbon | ||
Private client | Nick Warr | ||
Private capital and corporate finance | Russell Holden | ||
Corporate technology | Josef Fuss | ||
Private equity | Emma Danks | ||
Disputes and investigations | Andrew Howell | ||
Commercial technology and data | Graham Hann | ||
IP and media | Mark Owen | ||
Patents | Nigel Stoate |
Staff Figures
Number of lawyers firm-wide : 1,100+ Number of UK partners : 100+ Number of other UK fee-earners : 350+Student (Future Lawyers )
The Legal 500 Future Lawyers Verdict
Taylor Wessing ‘operates in interesting sectors for incredibly intriguing clients’ and is forever ‘encouraging employees’ professional growth and evolution’. The ‘forward-looking’ international firm provides trainees with ‘high levels of responsibility on matters and plenty of client contact’, whilst also offering ‘lots of guidance, rather than just throwing you in the deep end’. Taylor Wessing has a ‘supportive culture’ where everyone ‘is incredibly friendly and will make an effort to speak to you’, including ‘those in more senior positions.’ The firm encourages a ‘healthy work/life balance’, which includes a ‘fairly flexible work-from-home policy’. The vacation scheme is fantastic too. At Taylor Wessing recruits are given ‘the opportunity to work with industry-leading clients’ and ‘trusted to get deals over the line.’ Recruits work ‘with little supervision’ and feel confident in sharing their own ‘thoughts and suggestions’ with partners. The drawback is that they can also consequently be expected to work ‘long evenings’ and can be held ‘responsible for any error’ they may make! Several respondents complained that the salary is too low and ‘should be higher to be more competitive with other firms’. For one trainee, a low point was ‘feeling neglected by supervisors due to being in a department where everyone was too busy’. Overall though recruits feel appreciated and recognised within their teams; trainees here truly feel that their work ‘contributes to the success of the firm’. For both challenging and rewarding work in a friendly culture with colleagues who are experts in their field, take a closer look at Taylor Wessing.Legal Briefings
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IT security in Germany: a jungle of laws
Introduction Our society is becoming increasingly interconnected and digital. At the same time, cyberattacks are constantly increasing and headlines about successful cyberattacks appear in the media on a daily basis. In its latest report on the state of IT security in Germany, the Federal Cyber Security Authority (BSI) notes an overall increase in cyberattacks, as …
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- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Biotechnology
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £250m)
- Corporate and commercial > Venture capital
- Industry focus > Hospitality and leisure
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Theatre, publishing and other media
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Cambridge
- Corporate and commercial > M&A: Lower Mid-Market Deals, £100m-£750m
- Industry focus > Life sciences and healthcare
- Industry focus > Retail and consumer
- Industry focus > TMT
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Real estate > Commercial property: development
- Real estate > Commercial property: investment
- Real estate > Residential property
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: patents (contentious and non-contentious)
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Digital content & social
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Video games
Firm Rankings
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil
- Employment > Employee share schemes
- Employment > Employers
- Employment > Pensions: dispute resolution
- Insurance > Product liability: defendant
- Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers
- Real estate > Construction: non-contentious
- Real estate > Property finance
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Advertising & marketing
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Reputation management
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax
- Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious
- Employment > Immigration
- Employment > Pensions (non-contentious)
- Real estate > Planning
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > PATMA: Trade mark attorneys
- Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals)
- Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: premium
- Real estate > Construction: contentious
- Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates)