Ogier > Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands > Firm Profile

Ogier
89 NEXUS WAY
CAMANA BAY
GRAND CAYMAN KY1-9007
Cayman Islands

Cayman Islands > Trusts/private client Tier 1

Widely recognised as a ‘proactive and solution-focused team‘ with expertise across both non-contentious and contentious work, Ogier‘s team routinely represents trustees, beneficiaries, settlors, protectors and enforcers in high-value international trust and estate disputes, including breach of trust, forced heirship and rectification claims. The practice is jointly led by ‘Cayman’s star trust lawyer and litigatorRachael Reynolds KC, and the ‘talentedAnthony Partridge, whose practice focuses on non-contentious and semi-contentious private trust and estate matters. Litigator Jennifer Fox excels in private client litigation, fraud and asset recovery work, and fund-related claims, while Christopher Levers handles claims involving fraud and breach of duty. Contentious trusts expert Deborah Barker Roye and Gregory Haddow, who advises on wealth structuring issues, are also noted.

Practice head(s):

Rachael Reynolds KC; Anthony Partridge

Testimonials

‘The multi-discipline practice allows a client to get one-shop treatment in multiple jurisdictions if required. The teams work well together and the flow from partner to partner is seamless.’

‘Rachael Reynolds KC is Cayman’s star trust lawyer and litigator, whose reputation extends far beyond the shores of the Islands. In a major trust matter there will be a rush to her door before one of the other parties instructs her. Anthony Partridge is a talented trust lawyer and delight to work with. He and Rachael make up an impressive duo. Jennifer Fox also impresses in the private client sphere, as does Deborah Barker Roye.’

‘Proactive and solution focused team. In depth understanding of service provider needs and challenges to arising issues.’

‘I mainly work with Anthony Partridge who is excellent with his clients both at explaining complex issues and putting them at ease as to why the plan may be effective for them. He is also very timely in his response and available for questions as needed..’

‘Christopher Levers is very client focused and responsive. He is a pleasure to work with.’

‘An exceptional team which benefits from the integrated and international approach of Ogier’s global organisation of its practice (which is a very joined up approach). Having Rachael Reynolds KC, Senior Partner, heading the practice makes it stand out in the Cayman firmament.’

‘Anthony Partridge and Gregory Haddow are the leading lights of the non-contentious private client team at Ogier – they work superbly together with Anthony as partner using his deep knowledge of Cayman backed up by Gregory’s excellent client first approach.’

‘Between Anthony Partridge on the non-contentious side and Rachael Reynolds KC on the contentious, they have two of the best in each field in Cayman. They are certainly our first call for both non-contentious and contentious situations. They are very approachable and give excellent practical advice.’

Work highlights

  • Acted for an institutional trustee, and working alongside the family office, in a large trust restructuring in Cayman, involving the restructuring of multiple trusts.

Cayman Islands > Banking, finance and capital markets Tier 2

Ogier‘s banking, finance and capital markets practice fields an experienced cross-disciplinary team which regularly guides clients through the full scope of banking, finance, and capital markets work, ranging from debt and equity issues, to loan facilities, note issuances and SPAC IPOs. The firm's fund finance practice is also recommended for a varied lender-side client base. The fund finance team is led by James Heinicke, who specialises in matters stemming from Latin American jurisdictions, while Bradley Kruger concentrates on capital markets work and advises on IPOs, SPACs, M&A transactions and joint ventures. Alongside his specialism in asset finance, aviation and shipping matters, Mark Santangeli represents borrowers and lenders alike in all types of fund financing products; and Angus Davison is a key name for corporate finance work. Cynthia Anandajayasekeram operates across several areas and is a member of the private equity team.

Practice head(s):

James Heinicke

Testimonials

‘The team was excellent and provided timely and sound legal advice. The team was a true partner and was always willing and able to meet our tight deadlines.’

Key clients

JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A.

Golden Path Acquisition Corporation

Venus Acquisition Corporation

ETAO International Group

Zura Bio Limited

Energem Corp.

ICONIQ Holdings Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised JP Morgan Chase Bank, N.A. in respect of (i) a revolving credit facility of $500m (ii) a 5-year term loan facility of $1.1bn (iii) senior secured notes of $450m (iv) a 5-year bridge to notes facility of $750m and (v) a 7-year bridge to notes facility of $750m in connection with LATAM’s proposed exit financing from Chapter 11 proceedings.
  • Advised with respect to matters of Cayman and BVI laws, ICONIQ Holdings Limited on its $2.5bn business combination with East Stone Acquisition Corporation, a special purpose acquisition company incorporated in the BVI.
  • Acted as Cayman counsel to Energem Corp. on its listing and advising on its proposed business combination with Graphjet Technology Sdn. Bhd., a Malaysian private limited company for $1.49bn.

Cayman Islands > Corporate and commercial Tier 2

Ogier‘s corporate and commercial practice is well known for routinely advising banks, financial institutions, corporates and high-net-worth individuals on M&A and SPAC transactions, IPOs and joint ventures. Team head Bradley Kruger specialises in private equity acquisitions and disposals, while Angus Davison advises key banking clients and investment funds on the full gamut of corporate and finance work, including SPAC IPOs, de-SPAC transactions, M&A and securitisations. As a part of the firm's Latin American team, James Heinicke routinely acts for clients located in the region focusing on corporate restructurings and recovery work, while Cynthia Anandajayasekeram‘s extensive experience ranges from advising on public and private M&A transactions, private equity work and joint ventures, to equity capital markets issues, corporate advisory work and restructuring matters. Corporate and investment funds expert Giorgio Subiotto is also recommended for Latin America-focused work.

Practice head(s):

Bradley Kruger

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Ogier has a strong presence in the Cayman Islands, which provides them with in-depth knowledge and expertise in offshore financial services, including funds, corporate services, and international finance. It also has an extensive international network. This global reach allows them to serve clients with cross-border legal needs effectively. And, they prioritize building long-term client relationships and providing responsive, practical legal advice.’

‘Ogier’s team members have a global outlook, which is crucial in today’s interconnected business world. They bring an understanding of international markets and regulations to their practice, facilitating cross-border transactions and investments.’

‘Ogier’s team is highly responsive and accessible to clients. They understand the importance of timely communication and updates, which is especially critical in time-sensitive legal matters.’

Key clients

Golden Path Acquisition Corporation

Venus Acquisition Corporation

ETAO International Group

Zura Bio Limited

Energem Corp.

ClimateRock

The Growth for Good Acquisition Corporation (G4G)

Integrated Wellness Acquisition Corp (Integrated Wellness)

ICONIQ Holdings Limited

Pismo Holdings

Three Arrows Capital Ltd

Technology & Telecommunication Acquisition Corporation (T&T)

Work highlights

  • Advised special purpose acquisition company Golden Path Acquisition Corporation on its $450m business combination with MC Hologram Inc, a Cayman-based company which focuses on the research and development of holographic technology.
  • Acted as Cayman counsel on the merger between Venus Acquisition Corporation, a Nasdaq-listed special purpose acquisition company incorporated in Cayman, and VIYI Algorithm Inc. in a deal valued at around $400m.
  • Acted as Cayman counsel to Zura Bio Limited, a multi-asset clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing novel medicines for immune and inflammatory disorders, on its $215m merger with a special purpose acquisition company, JATT Acquisition Corp.

Cayman Islands > Dispute resolution Tier 2

With expertise spanning restructuring and insolvency issues, fraud and valuation disputes, and fair-value disputes, Ogier fields a team of seasoned practitioners including Cayman dispute resolution head Jennifer Fox; global dispute resolution head Marc Kish, who handles international insolvency, restructuring and financial services disputes; and head of the trust disputes practice Rachael Reynolds KC. Christopher Levers‘ capabilities are notably focused on restructuring and insolvency proceedings, and high-value commercial litigation with a cross-border element, while Gemma Lardner‘s expertise ranges from handling distressed fund and private equity disputes to issues involving distressed digital assets, cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. Counsel Deborah Barker Roye‘s expertise in contentious trust and estate matters is also noteworthy.

Practice head(s):

Marc Kish; Jennifer Fox; Rachael Reynolds KC

Testimonials

‘Ogier’s Cayman Disputes Resolution Team are exceptional. A high-class team from top to bottom, that is hugely experienced and on the cutting edge of commercial disputes, civil fraud, insolvency and trusts. They have seemingly encyclopaedic knowledge of local law and practice, and great knowledge of and feel for the individual judges.’

‘Ogier’s global dispute resolution practice is headed by Marc Kish from the Cayman office and it is easy to see why. Marc is a precise and devastating litigator and is incredibly effective in marshalling and driving forward global pieces of work.’

‘Rachael Reynolds KC is Cayman’s star litigator, whose reputation extends far beyond the shores of the Islands. In a major multi-party matter there will be a rush to her door before one of the other parties instructs her.’

‘Christopher Levers – an absolutely brilliant lawyer. Seemingly encyclopaedic knowledge of local law and practice, and great feel for what the court will and will not (want to) do. A great tactician. Very easy to work with.’

‘Size of the team and the successful interplay between the team members is clear to see and the benefits of this strong workforce is shown in the quality of the firm’s work.’

‘Every single one of the team, from paralegals to partners, has been great. They’ve been creative, hard working, user friendly and always on point with strategic decisions.’

‘Marc Kish is smart, tactical and very commercial. Christopher Levers has a wealth of experience of the local judges, has good strategic vision, and sound judgment.’

‘An exceptional team which benefits from the integrated and international approach of Ogier’s global organisation of its practice (which is a very joined up approach). Having Rachael Reynolds KC, Senior Partner, heading the practice makes it stand out in the Cayman firmament.’

Key clients

Tianrui (International) Holding Company Limited

FamilyMart China Holding Co

Credit Suisse AG and Credit Suisse London Nominees Ltd

Kuwait Ports Authority and The Public Institution for Social Security

Raiffeisen Bank International AG

Gol Linhas Aereas S.A.

Global Cord Blood Corporation

Telford Offshore Holdings Limited and Telford Offshore Limited

Three Arrows Capital Ltd

Waterwood O2O Project Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted for Fund IV’s conflict director, Litigation Committee and the Investors’ Council, dealing with numerous contentious aspects of the fallout from the collapse of the Abraaj Group.
  • Acted as Cayman counsel to KPA and PIFSS, advising on all relevant Cayman Islands law issues including proceedings before the Cayman courts as the limited partners in the Port Fund seek redress for the various frauds perpetrated against the Fund.
  • Acted for Raiffeisen Bank International AG with respect to claims under the Fraudulent Dispositions Act and in the tort of unlawful means conspiracy against a number of entities in relation to repayment of various loans pursuant to a guarantee provided by the former topco of the MFC Group.

Cayman Islands > Investment funds Tier 2

At Ogier, the ‘fast, intelligent, business-driven team‘ counts hedge, private equity, real estate, infrastructure, energy, credit, debt, venture capital, and crypto funds among its regular clients. The group is praised for its ability to ‘effectively address complex and challenging issues‘, utilising the strength of the firm’s corporate, finance, private wealth and litigation departments. James Bergstrom acts as the global head of the investment funds practice, with Nick Rogers leading on private equity work, and Giorgio Subiotto overseeing the Latin America-focused offering alongside Tim Cone. Joanne Huckle is the name to note for regulatory issues, while Justin Savage is a key contact for corporate governance and operation matters. Emma Sutherland is noted for the breadth of her practice. Counsel Barry McEwan and managing associate Gemma Cowan are likewise recommended.

Practice head(s):

James Bergstrom; Nick Rogers; Giorgio Subiotto

Testimonials

‘Ogier has a fast, intelligent, business-driven team. They are able to address complex points in a very clear and objective manner, with high quality. They’re excellent. They have a lot of chemistry among themselves and that facilitates all sorts of demands.’

‘They are responsive, knowledgeable and efficient.’

‘I value reliability and accessibility, and Justin Savage always provides these, directly or through his associates.’

‘Besides Ogier’s expertise in Cayman Islands law and their international perspective, we appreciate the flexibility and “can-do” attitude the team has demonstrated throughout the different engagements.’

‘Ogier has consistently exhibited a demonstrable strength in being patient and mindful of our timings and requirements, which has helped us always feel supported and at ease. Overall, we have the best impression of the team, value their client-focused approach and hope to continue working with them in the future.’

‘Ogier has shown a high level of proficiency, handling complex and sophisticated matters with expertise and professionalism. The team is highly responsive and provides excellent service levels, demonstrating their commitment to meeting our needs promptly and effectively.’

‘The team demonstrates very strong depth and breadth, with a wide range of skills, knowledge, and perspectives, allowing them to effectively address complex and challenging issues.’

Key clients

Saguaro Capital Management, LLC

Prisma Capital

Banco BTG Pactual S.A.

DeFi Alliance LLC

Level 5 Capital Partners LLC

Work highlights

  • Advised on the launch of two open-ended master feeder structures comprising: (1) Saguaro Large Cap Partners Offshore Fund and Saguaro Large Cap Master Fund, which focus on large-cap entities with market caps of $20bn and above; and (2) Saguaro SMID Partners Offshore Fund and Saguaro SMID Master Fund, which focus on small to mid-cap entities with market caps of up to $20bn.
  • Advised Prisma Capital on the establishment of an investment advisory entity in, and operating from, Cayman, including assisting with its registration as an adviser under applicable regulations, the lease of premises, immigration matters, substance and implications, and related upstream and downstream corporate and investment fund matters.
  • Advised DeFi Alliance on the establishment and launch of Alliance Cayman Feeder II, a Cayman closed-ended fund formed as an exempted limited partnership.

Cayman Islands > Regulatory and compliance Tier 2

Ogier fields an experienced practice, which handles contentious and non-contentious regulatory matters, including CIMA inspections and AML enforcement decisions. Investment funds regulatory head Joanne Huckle specialises in anti-money laundering and emerging private equity regulatory regimes, while James Heinicke leads the banking regulatory group, advising banks and financial institutions on a wide range of regulatory and compliance matters. Other key names include regulatory enforcement and investigations expert Jennifer Fox, who leads the contentious regulatory team, and corporate regulatory head Martin Byers.

Practice head(s):

Joanne Huckle; Martin Byers; James Heinicke; Jennifer Fox

Other key lawyers:

Megan Mcluskie; Cornelia Zhu; Sophie Warburton

Testimonials

‘Ogier’s team has taken the time to understand our business and its unique needs. They showed true professionalism, accountability and expertise, whilst exhibiting a deep knowledge of the legal requirements that we face.’

‘This team, housed within a renowned global law firm, offers a deep-seated understanding of local and international regulatory frameworks. With a presence in key global financial hubs, the team is poised to deliver advice tailored to diverse legal landscapes. This ensures that clients maintain compliance no matter where they operate. A collaborative environment within the firm allows for a seamless melding of expertise from various legal disciplines.’

‘They exemplify professional excellence and a client-centric approach. Their deep understanding of intricate legal landscapes, combined with a commitment to staying updated with ever-evolving regulations, positions them as one of the top teams in their sector.’

‘Megan Mcluskie is the main contact that I have dealt with at Ogier and I think she is a star of the future, her knowledge around regulatory matters is superb with a great ability to deliver concise legal advice.’

‘The outstanding level of services delivered always in professional manner.’

‘The team is composed of very dedicated, experienced, and professional people, including but not limited to James Heinicke and Cornelia Zhu. They always give us the best support along with the most diligent attention to our needs. The team is very well prepared to handle any situation that comes their way.’

‘Top individual that I have worked with there is Martin Byers – without question one of the best on the island.’

‘I believe the practice has important people skills and collaboration between other practices inside the firm.’

Work highlights

  • Advising a large number of investment funds, investment managers and advisors, fund administrators and other service providers in Cayman in respect of complex cross-jurisdictional matters, issues and considerations relating to the impact of Russian Sanctions.

Cayman Islands > Real estate Tier 3

Ogier‘s real estate practice routinely acts for an array of high-net-worth individuals who rely on the team to handle commercial and residential real estate transactions including involving permanent residences, developments, large infrastructure assets, residential land, commercial buildings and condominiums. Practice head James Bergstrom is noted for leading on a range of high-value commercial real estate matters, while Cline Glidden‘s expertise is concentrated on funding issues, the conveyancing of large residential and commercial developments, and high-value real estate acquisitions. The team also fields Sophie Warburton, who handles due diligence investigations, commercial and residential leasing issues, and title work.

Practice head(s):

James Bergstrom

Other key lawyers:

Work highlights

  • Advised a purchaser on the off-plan purchase of a to-be-constructed luxury condominium on Cayman’s prestigious Seven Mile Beach.
  • Acted for numerous purchasers and developers in respect of the acquisition and development of commercial development sites in Cayman.
  • Acted for a variety of financiers handling the drafting and registration of security documents for loans secured over several Cayman properties.

Cross-Caribbean expertise > Intellectual property Tier 2

Ogier’s Caribbean-based IP practice was substantially bolstered in 2022 following the recruitment of Sophie Peat from HSM to lead the team; she is praised by clients as ‘proactive, positive and pragmatic’ and handles the full spectrum of IP clearance, prosecution, exploitation and enforcement work. The group’s expertise encompasses brands and trade marks, copyright, industrial designs and patents, and the team is particularly noted for its knowledge of multi-jurisdictional mandates. The practice also leverages the wider experience in the firm’s dispute resolution, corporate and regulatory teams as well as its global network of offices to provide comprehensive advice.

Practice head(s):

Sophie Peat

Testimonials

‘Sophie Peat is proactive, positive and pragmatic which are hugely valuable skills.’

‘The entire intellectual property team has been excellent to work with. The communication is timely, and the staff are able to explain anything asked and are truly a pleasure to work with.’

‘Sophie Peat is extremely knowledgeable about the various Caribbean countries. Her knowledge has truly helped to guide us along the way where we now have trade marks in multiple countries.’

Work highlights

  • Representing a multi-national US food and beverage company brand in trade mark prosecution, dispute resolution and enforcement matters throughout the Caribbean region and in Central and Latin America.
  • Acting as Caribbean trade marks adviser for a leading international music and entertainment company wishing to protect and enforce its rights in the region.
  • Providing trade mark clearance and prosecution strategy advice and support to a female-owned Caribbean feminine care product company expanding operations throughout the Caribbean.