Collas Crill > St Peter Port, Guernsey > Firm Profile
Collas Crill Offices

GLATEGNY COURT, PO BOX 140
GLATEGNY ESPLANADE
ST PETER PORT
GY1 4EW
Guernsey
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Collas Crill > The Legal 500 Rankings
Guernsey > Commercial property Tier 1
Collas Crill recently acted for both purchasers and sellers on a number of the top-tier commercial property deals in Guernsey. Co-head Paul Nettleship and Jason Green ('responsive, diligent, commercially minded') apply their transactional expertise to a range of mandates, while also advising tenants on leasing negotiations, most notably in the hotel sector. Elsewhere in the hospitality sector, the firm advised a premier pub and brewery chain on ownership changes. Co-head Michael Morris and senior associate Donald Millar — cited as 'a leader in residential property knowledge' by one client — advise financial institutions on property development financing transactions.
Practice head(s):
Paul Nettleship; Michael Morris
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I primarily work with Donald Millar and Michael Morris. Put simply, they are experienced and knowledgeable in all matters property. They have a strong wider team and are able to tackle any questions with have with speed and efficiency. They are quick to make contact when any issues arise and always have a plethora of options available when coming to problem solving.’
‘Pragmatic, supportive and willing to go the extra mile to assist their clients. Their plain-English approach is reassuring and empowering.’
‘Collas Crill have a strong presence in the commercial property market and are able to deal with complex issues relating to commercial leasing, commercial development and commercial sales. This depth and breadth of experience, together with their client care makes them a pleasure to work with, in the knowledge they have the ability to represent your interests fairly and to protect your position.’
‘Donald Millar is a leader in residential property knowledge. If it’s just a five-minute catch up or a full debrief on a client, he always captures the salient points and explains them in layman terms. He is happy to work with banks and clients to solve differences and is a ‘go-to’ lawyer when we have any complicated issues.’
‘Donald Millar’s grounded, down-to-earth, logical and proactive approach continues to be a breath of fresh air. Trying to source pragmatic solutions to any situation that arises and not afraid to take a constructive lead amongst peers to get the deal done, not just for the benefit of his own client.’
‘We particularly enjoy working with Jason Green. We find him responsive, diligent, commercially minded and a good team player.’
‘Paul Nettleship is directly contactable and if not available he has the necessary secretarial and technical support to ensure matters requiring attention can be progressed. A huge advantage in commercial property transactions. He is a respected member of the Guernsey Bar.’
Key clients
The Royal Bank of Scotland International Limited
Investec Bank (Channel Islands) Limited
SG Kleinwort Hambros Bank Limited
CapitalRise Finance Limited
Castle Trust Capital plc
Arbuthnot Latham & Co., Ltd
Bank Julius Baer
Martin Grant Homes
Garenne Group
Liberation Group
SandpiperCI Limited
Comprop
Channel Islands Property Fund
Guernsey Housing Association LBG
Claire’s Accessories
Work highlights
- Acted on the sale by Channel Islands Media Group of its Guernsey Press premises to the Red Fund in the summer of 2020 subject to a leaseback arrangement for the Guernsey Press to enable it to continue to trade from its premises.
- Acted for Comprop in an agreement for lease between it and Bank Julius Baer in respect of the leasing of a three floors of a new office building at Admiral Park which is in the course of construction.
- Acted for Arbuthnot Latham & Co on the £23m financing of a portfolio of properties across the Midlands and the North West.
Guernsey > Dispute resolution Tier 1
Collas Crill’s dispute resolution bench thrives on a steady stream of litigation involving contentious trusts, probates and shareholder agreements under the expertise of 'tireless advocate' Christian Hay, who heads the practice alongside Gareth Bell and David O’Hanlon. Ben Havard’s contentious trust knowledge is applied to sensitive and high-value family disputes. Michael Adkins, senior associate Nin Ritchie and associate Emma Taylor bring regulatory expertise, with comprehensive wins against the GFSC recently being secured for high-profile individuals and commercial clients. Adkins and of counsel James Tee lead on substantial insolvency proceedings, recently on behalf of joint liquidators in the mining sector.
Practice head(s):
Christian Hay
Other key lawyers:
Gareth Bell; David O’Hanlon; Ben Havard; Michael Adkins; Nin Ritchie; Emma Taylor; James Tee
Testimonials
‘Emma Taylor will go right to the top: Efficient, professional and extremely personable.’
‘Gareth Bell is a very experienced and steady hand on the tiller. Knowledgeable and able to provide comfort when the going gets tough.’
‘David O’Hanlon is calm and understated but firm in his advice. Willing to take on board client strategic views and to advise having regard to the ultimate aims.
‘Christian Hay is a tireless advocate for the interests of Collas Crill and Guernsey dispute resolution in general.’
‘Michael Adkins: exceptional lawyer; commercially focused and technically excellent.’
‘James Tee is thorough and prompt to ensure that matters keep pace and the initiative is maintained.’
‘Ben Havard is a pleasure to work with and a charming practitioner who provides quality advice and always offers a clear litigation strategy. He is highly collaborative and knows what his clients want.’
‘Nin Ritchie is at the top of her game. She is a calm, steady pair of hands and can efficiently get to grips with idiosyncratic matters. I continue to be very impressed with her legal knowledge and commercial acumen.’
Key clients
Grant Thornton Channel Islands
FRP Advisory
FSN Capital
Circumference Holdings Ltd
Guernsey Housing Association
White & Case
Payne Hicks Beach
Withers
Kingsley Napley
Keystone Law
CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang
Wedlake Bell
Mishcon
Zhong Lun
Geneva Trust Company (formerly Rawlinson & Hunter S.A.)
Sequent (formerly Rothschild Trust Guernsey Limited)
Artemis Trustees Limited
Bank Julius Baer & Co
Investec Bank Channel Islands
Work highlights
- Represented Grant Thornton as Joint Liquidators of CanArgo Limited in a contested court application to sanction a decision to sell the company’s mining rights in Georgia.
- Represented a private client in judicial review proceedings against the Guernsey Financial Services Commission seeking, amongst other things, corrective disclosure following a bungled investigation.
- Represented the Settlor of the V trust in an application to set aside the trust which had let to an unintended £1m liability to UK inheritance tax.
Jersey > Commercial property Tier 1
Collas Crill’s commercial property department is retained by an exceptionally diverse client roster comprising developers, lenders, tenants and commercial purchasers and sellers. Headline clients Dandara and Le Masurier have instructed Pamela Doherty and practice head Martin Le Boutillier on major commercial and residential developments involving central St. Helier property. With the assistance of head of conveyancing Gavin Renault, the team also handles multimillion-pound disposals in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Commercial property investment is another strength, evidenced by the team’s handling of prominent building site acquisitions on behalf of property funds clients.
Practice head(s):
Martin Le Boutillier
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Martin Le Boutillier and Pamela Doherty are extremely knowledgeable in the local market and extremely easy to deal with.’
‘The team are very approachable and their experience in all commercial property areas is second to none.’
‘Pamela Doherty is always pleasant and easy to approach.’
‘Martin Le Boutillier is always dependable, dedicated to his work and has extensive knowledge.’
‘Gavin Renault is responsive and dedicated and has more than 40 years of local experience.’
‘Pamela Doherty demonstrated fantastic knowledge and flexibility to complete what was a rather complicated property transaction that needed to be completed within a short time frame whilst all parties to the transaction were in lockdown. She and her team made use of technology to ensure documents, meetings and KYC were handled in a timely manner, with ease and professionalism while exercising flexibility and initiative to overcome the hurdles thrown up by Covid-19.’
Key clients
Castle Properties
Channel Islands Property Fund
Dandara
Investec
Le Masurier
Liberation Group
Modern Hotels
SG Kleinwort Hambros
Work highlights
- Advised Le Masurier on its major development projects including a £70m investment in the development “Merchants Square” Bath Street, St Helier to develop a Premier Inn Hotel, circa 145 residential units, food and beverage and commercial units and car parking.
- Advised Channel Islands Property Fund on the acquisition of 18-22 Grenville Street, St Helier, Jersey via the acquisition of the entire issued share capital of the property holding company.
- Instructed by Dandara on its 16 Hilary Street town centre residential development including structuring and first-off plan sales.
Dispute resolution Tier 1
Led by Damian James (who is considered 'a leader in his field'), Collas Crill’s dispute resolution practice represents trustees and beneficiaries in high-stakes trust litigation; notable ongoing work concerns disputes arising from generational changes and the division of assets. Sam Williams is also a go-to partner in this space, while Nuno Santos-Costa is highly sought after in the private client sphere, often working in tandem with associate Lynne Calder on large-scale property and construction disputes and broader commercial litigation. In terms of insolvency and restructuring claims, the 'considered, detail-oriented, responsive and collaborative' Simon Hurry is a key market figure for asset recovery actions, commonly with a multijurisdictional element. The team also recently advised on medical negligence claims.
Practice head(s):
Damian James
Other key lawyers:
Sam Williams; Nuno Santos-Costa; Lynne Calder; Simon Hurry; Dan Boxall; Kirsten Bailey
Testimonials
‘Damian James is a leader in his field, as effective in court as he is on paper, which is superb. Calm and measured approach identifying the key issues and focusing on the points that count for the client’s best outcome.’
‘One of the big players in Jersey, Collas Crill has highly experienced lawyers with real talent. The team has the ability to deal with the most high profile litigation and is in all the big Channel Island cases.’
‘Nuno Santos-Costa is extremely experienced. he has excellent client-handling skills and is very practical in seeking a solution for his client. Sam Williams is an excellent lawyer who is very good on his feet. He has grown into a highly skilled advocate. Kirsten Bailey is also an extremely good associate.’
‘The team consists of very experienced and knowledgeable lawyers, who are detail oriented and produce excellent advice. They effortlessly absorb the intricacies of a matter and are consistently appointed in construction, property, commercial and and trust disputes.’
‘Nuno Santos-Costa is a very smart lawyer. He understands issues quickly and is a great strategist. He is excellent with clients, has a pragmatic approach and is much sought after. Nuno has a pleasant, knowledgeable demeanour which commands respect.’
‘Lynne Calder is astute and easily gets to the nub of a matter. She is very good with clients, gives sound advice and has a tremendous ability to produce high-quality work.’
‘Simon Hurry was great to work with. The matter we worked on together was extremely time sensitive as well as raising novel, cross-jurisdictional points of law. Simon was considered, detail-oriented, responsive and collaborative. He provided excellent legal and strategic advice and felt like an extension of the team.’
‘Dan Boxall is incredibly astute and diligent and with a keen tactical brain.’
Key clients
Corporate Trustee W Limited
Navigator Equities Limited
Grant Thornton Limited
Equiom Group
Salzgitter Mannesmann International
Ocorian
Kea Investments Limited
Bonhay Investments Limited
Deutsche Pfandbriefbank AG
Taylor Wessing
Farrer & Co
Work highlights
- Acting for the former CEO of a FTSE 100 company in connection with a long-running divorce, successfully defending a raft of applications by his spouse who sought to secure her share of the matrimonial wealth by invoking the trust jurisdiction of the Royal Court, rather than through the traditional family division.
- Obtained interim relief for an individual from the Royal Court in the form of a vesting order in respect of legal title to shares in a Jersey company in aid of the enforcement of arbitral awards in excess of $115m as part of ongoing dispute.
- Obtained urgent interim injunctions, asset disclosure and attachments of Jersey assets for Kea Investments in a £29m English judgment against a fraudster.
Guernsey > Banking and finance Tier 2
Real estate finance is a primary field of focus for Collas Crill’s banking and finance team, within which co-head Wayne Atkinson handles traditional and shari’ah-compliant lending mandates for global banks. A key trend for the practice has been its ability to secure new panel appointments from Middle East-based lenders. Co-head Paul Wilkes and the ‘responsive, personable and very high-quality‘ Simon Heggs (who recently made partner) lead on fund and leveraged finance instructions; although they predominantly act for lenders, work from domestic and multijurisdictional borrowers is another driver of activity.Practice head(s):
Wayne Atkinson; Paul Wilkes
Other key lawyers:
Simon Heggs; Ben Le Page
Testimonials
‘Personable and helpful – knowledgeable in their field.’
‘Collas Crill have very much become a trusted adviser to us. Key to us is them taking the time to understand our business and support advising on a case-by-case basis. They’re very transparent with fees and particularly keen to ensure proposals work for the business.’
‘The firm provided a high-quality professional service which included timely feedback, clear concise responses and legal counsel. Extremely proactive and commercial law firm who are top of their game for offshore legal advice.’
‘I will always seek out Simon Heggs for Guernsey expertise. Simon is both very personable and a very high-quality lawyer, who can always be relied upon to be responsive, pragmatic and commercial.’
‘Ben Le Page has been fundamental in organising and delivering on legal matters. His knowledge and proactive approach has meant that all matters are handled within the expected timeframe and within the scope of anticipated costs. Ben is a pleasure to work with and maintains a strong client relationship with us.’
‘The thing that Collas Crill do very well is that their associates are really connected and coverage is excellent if the primary deal associate is away, unavailable etc. – particular credit here to Ben Le Page. Their responsiveness is also excellent.’
Key clients
RBSI
Investec
Lloyds
Bank Julius Baer
Arbuthnot Latham
ABC International Bank
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
Ahli United Bank (UK) PLC
ABC International Bank
Bank of East Asia
Bank of London & The Middle East
Blue Islands
QIB Plc
Oak North Bank
Gatehouse Bank plc
Santander
Royal Bank of Canada
Rothschild
Al Rayan Bank
Silicon Valley Bank
Barclays
ADIB
Northern Trust
Fairtree
Work highlights
- Acting for Silicon Valley Bank on a €25m subscription line facility to Ashgrove Speciality Lending Fund 1 LP, a Guernsey fund.
- Advising Bank of London & Middle East on an £18m master Murabaha agreement (shari’ah law-compliant facility agreement) in Guernsey, Jersey and BVI in respect of the acquisition of a statement residential block in London.
- Advising Canbury Holdings Plc on a group restructure and £66m refinance of an existing facility with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) in respect of the acquisition and development of student accommodation.
Guernsey > Corporate and M&A Tier 2
Collas Crill takes a cross-departmental approach to corporate services under the corporate finance and funds banner. Recent headline deals have included sale and purchase agreements and associated funding arrangements for essential Guernsey companies in the transport and medical care sectors, led by practice head Paul Wilkes and Wayne Atkinson. The 'extremely capable and practical' Simon Heggs was recently promoted to partner; he handles a mix of capital markets transactions and downstream acquisitions for clients including funds and banks. The practice is a leading name for international financing deals and listings in the medicinal cannabis sector.
Practice head(s):
Paul Wilkes
Other key lawyers:
Wayne Atkinson; Simon Heggs; Gareth Morgan
Testimonials
‘Simon Heggs is an integral part of the client delivery team and clients rely on him and instruct him directly, which is unusual for offshore counsel.’
‘Collas Crill have shown themselves to be market-leaders in the new and complex medicinal cannabis sector.’
‘We have found the team to be very strong. Simon Heggs, Wayne Atkinson, Gareth Morgan and Paul Wilkes are all available and help lead transactions rather than “cheer from the sidelines” which is something other offshore law firms can sometimes do.’
‘Their team are knowledgeable to, and aware of, ongoing matters that they are conducting and all work is carried out to a very high standard. Billing and delivery matters are always as expected and they are always open to negotiating fee discussions and maneuvering to meet client expectations.’
‘For me what makes this team so special is their ability to break down complex matters into understandable and clear guidance, whilst remaining calm and completely focused to the end result. All this whilst being transparent and fair on fees.’
‘Simon Heggs demonstrates exceptional technical expertise, whilst also having the client’s best interests at heart. Simon is approachable, friendly and a pleasure to do business with.’
‘Very responsive no matter what time of day.’
‘Simon Heggs is a highly responsive, knowledgeable and pragmatic transactional lawyer: he is a pleasure to work with, and given the choice, his team are definitely my preferred Guernsey counsel to work with. I trust him, which is in my opinion the highest accolade that can be given to a professional advisor.’
Key clients
Northern Trust
Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank
HWS 3 Limited & HWS 4 Limited
India Capital Growth Fund Limited
Fairtree Capital
Grant Thornton
Investec Bank
Queens Road Medical Practice
Channel Island Property Fund
Condor Ferries
IP Investment Management (HK)
Sequent
PineBridge Investments
JTC Group Limited
Fladgates
Hill Dickinson
Midshore Consulting Limited
Boodle Hatfield
Blue Islands Limited
Fastforward Innovations Limited
Nuvei Group
Emmac Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for Queens Road Medical Practice in negotiations with States of Guernsey to provide COVID relief care and to develop a new, sustainable model for primary care in Guernsey.
- Advised airline Blue Islands on its £10m loan facility with the States of Jersey, safeguarding essential lifeline travel connections for the Channel Islands.
- Advising on the acquisition by JTC Group Limited of RBC cees, which administers benefit plans with circa £11bn of assets under management.
Guernsey > Private client, trusts and tax Tier 2
Collas Crill’s international private client offering benefits from practice head Angela Calnan’s Middle East expertise when assisting with Guernsey-based foundation structurings for high-wealth individuals from that region. Having recently joined the practice, Adrian Brown and the 'very tactically astute' Elizabeth Couch expanded the firm’s family law capabilities regarding matrimonial and divorce matters relating to Guernsey trust structures. David Cooney, who is 'an exceptional talent in the industry', provides international clients with niche knowledge of complex fiduciary structures holding cryptocurrency and digital assets. Associate Gregory Haddow is highly rated; recent instructions pertained to trust transfers from Guernsey to The Cayman Islands.
Practice head(s):
Angela Calnan
Other key lawyers:
Adrian Brown; Elizabeth Couch; David Cooney; Gregory Haddow; Joanne Seal
Testimonials
‘Elizabeth Couch cares deeply for her clients, has a huge work ethic and thinks creatively about solutions for her cases. She is very tactically astute and a fine technical lawyer.’
‘David Cooney is one of very few lawyers in the private client sector who combines a considerate yet pragmatic approach with outstanding technical knowledge in the full range of structures used by international families for estate planning and investment. He is an exceptional talent in the industry.’
‘The approach received was a team approach, with all relevant members of the team involved to deliver a solution. The business was potentially contentious and the extra attention to detail was very much appreciated. Greg Haddow in particular took the effort to ensure that a solution was delivered that was acceptable to the client, after office hours. This resulted in the capturing of a significant relationship for us.’
‘The team are very responsive and not only technically good, they also understand the commercial and family aspects that underlie many family wealth structures.’
‘I work mostly with David Cooney who has turned out to be capable of adapting documentation to clients’ needs and trying to understand what truly moves the client.’
‘Angela Calnan has proven to be excellent in matching the work requested with the outcome provided.’
‘Joanne Seal is hardworking and diligent. She is an excellent listener and the type of solicitor whom you don’t have to tell something to twice.’
‘My main contact at Collas Crill Guernsey is David Cooney. I must say that he always provided a great service and support. His advice is always very comprehensive, clear and solution oriented.’
Key clients
Cannon Asset Management Limited
Intertrust Trustees Limited
RBC cees Trustee Guernsey Limited
Sequent (C.I.) Limited
Fides Trust Limited
WinTrust Asia Pacific Pte Ltd
Quayport Trustees Limited
Beauvoir Trustees Limited
Zedra Trust Company (Guernsey) Limited
Zedra Trust Company (Jersey) Limited
NWH (Guernsey) Limited
New Street Management Limited
Lancaster Trustees Limited
IQEQ (Jersey) Limited
Blevins Franks Trustees Limited
HSBC Trustee (C.I.) Limited
Sovereign Trust (Channel Islands) Limited
Louvre Trust (Guernsey) Limited
Forsters LLP
Nerine
Collas Crill Trust Limited
Wedlake Bell LLP
Artemis Trustees Limited
Farrer & Co LLP
Saffery Champness LLP
Albany Trust Co Ltd
Aquitaine Group Limited
Trident Trust Company (Guernsey) Limited
Work highlights
- Drafted a significant Guernsey philanthropic foundation for an Emirati national to further the causes of women in the Middle East.
- Launched an Alternative Qualifying Scheme to the DIFC’s DEWS regime for a global management consultancy firm.
Jersey > Banking and finance Tier 2
Collas Crill is strong in fund finance and real estate finance. Regarding the latter, Matthew Gilley recently handled loan restructurings in the hospitality sector while counsel Christine Fox represented lenders in real estate financing with international components. The team deals with borrower-side mandates, including loan facilities and debt-to-equity swaps for airlines and ferry companies with high island significance. The team under practice head Mike Williams is a leading island name for Islamic financing for both lenders and borrowers.
Practice head(s):
Mike Williams
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Gilley; Christine Fox; Alexander Price
Testimonials
‘Collas Crill’s Jersey banking team is still quite new to the market, but has proved itself to be a good alternative to the established names. We have used them twice in the last year and have been impressed by their service and delivery.’
‘Keen to develop relationships. Friendly and personable team. Commercially sound and pragmatic advice.’
‘Collas Crill has a great team across the board in all jurisdictions that I have dealt with and I really rate them for their Jersey banking and finance work. They are always responsive and on top of things, even when I know that they are busy working on a number of large transactions at the same time.’
‘Mike Williams does a great job of helping the Collas Crill team to look after us on the Jersey side and seamlessly fitting in with the work that we do for our clients. Mike is a great lawyer and very pragmatic. He always has the big picture in mind, even when it appears that the other side’s Jersey lawyers can’t see the wood for the trees. Alexander Price is one of his key associates and is a pleasure to work with, he knows our team well and so working with him feels like having him on our team too.’
‘Quality team with good understanding of banking and finance.’
‘Collas Crill are easy to do business with. They get the job done with minimal fuss and no last-minute fee creep discussions. They seem hungry for work and deliver a good service.’
‘Responsive, competitive on cost, and practical. The team also offers a very personable and collegial service.’
Key clients
ABC International Bank
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
Ahli United Bank (UK) PLC
Allianz Debt Fund
Al Rayan Bank plc
Allied Irish Bank
ASK Partners
Bangkok Bank
Bank of East Asia
Bank of London & The Middle East
Bank Julius Baer
Bank of Nova Scotia
Blue Islands
Butterfield Mortgages
Citibank, N.A.
Gatehouse Bank plc
Habib Bank Zurich plc
Hermes Alternative Investment Management
Hermes Real Estate Senior Debt Fund
HSBC
ICG Longbow Senior Debt S.A.
ICICI Bank
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China
Intertrust
Investec Asset Finance Channel Islands
Investec Bank PLC
KB Kookmin Bank London Branch
Kleinwort Hambros
Lloyds Bank
National Westminster Bank PLC
Nedbank Private Wealth
OakNorth Bank PLC
QIB (UK) plc
Rothschild
Royal Bank of Canada
Royal Bank of Scotland International
Santander
Schroder Unit Trusts
Shanghai Commercial Bank
State Bank of India
Sunlife Assurance Company of Canada
VTB Bank
Yes Bank
Work highlights
- Advised Blue Islands Limited on (i) moving its base of operations into Jersey; (ii) corporate restructuring of the airline’s ownership; and (iii) a £10m loan facility from the States of Jersey in order to provide the airline with working capital in light of pressures placed upon the airline (and aviation industry in general) as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Acted for OakNorth in connection with a £50m liquidity facility to Trikomo Limited (a Jersey subsidiary in the Arora group of companies) to refinance the acquisition, and fund the development, of residential units at the property known as Arora Tower, Waterview Drive, London.
- Advised a Russian e-commerce business on a $200m equity fundraising and $400m debt offering of senior unsecured convertible bonds.
Jersey > Investment funds Tier 2
Collas Crill advises on fund formations and management across the breadth of asset classes, with mid-cap and top-shelf investors, as well as licensed fund service providers, appearing in the client portfolio. Recently the team handled real estate fund launches and associated fund financing issues. Taking over from the recently departed Dilmun Leach (who joined WALKERS), practice head Sam Sturrock brings client-facing fund administration and regulatory skills from his role at Jersey Finance.
Practice head(s):
Sam Sturrock
Testimonials
‘I have known Sam Sturrock for many years – he is a stand-out lawyer – clearly knowing his area inside out but importantly personable, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.’
‘The Collas Crill team are consistently knowledgeable and helpful. Over the years I have dealt with the firm, the personnel may have changed but the level of service has remained the same.’
‘The Collas Crill team are not only experts but personable. They are a pleasure to deal with.’
‘Although a smaller player in the funds market, they provide a more personal touch.’
‘I work with Sam Sturrock, who is a highly capable and technical lawyer.’
‘Great and knowledgeable lawyers, very responsive.’
‘I worked with Sam Sturrock who has been very responsive, helpful and knowledgeable. Great person to work with.’
Key clients
Gemini Capital Management (Ireland) Limited
Persepolis Investments
Work highlights
- Advised on the Jersey legal aspects of a launch of a sub-fund of GemCap Investment Funds (Ireland) which is an open-ended UCITS fund with an AUM of approximately €1.24bn.
- Advised on the private placement of interests to Jersey investors of a Cayman-exempted limited partnership established by a leading bank investing the substantial majority of its capital in distressed, stressed and deep-value opportunities, targeting the debt of middle-market companies and assets.
- Acted on the private placement of interests to Jersey investors of a Cayman-exempted limited partnership established by a leading bank investing in real estate investments in Europe and the US. The fund structure has AUM of approximately $7.5bn.
Jersey > Private client, trusts and tax Tier 2
The international private client and trusts team at Collas Crill works closely with the firm’s litigation partners on highly complex, cross-jurisdictional matters. 'Top-notch' practice head Kellyann Ozouf acts for clients in trustee tax liability disputes and mistake applications in relation to Jersey foundations. Elsewhere, the team is increasingly sought after to advise on wills and probate matters for high-net-worth individuals; Laura Perkins is a go-to name. Advice is provided on high-value trust restructuring projects.
Practice head(s):
Kellyann Ozouf
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Highly responsive, covers all bases and clear on pricing and timelines.’
‘Very dynamic team, always responsive and on top of the cases. The team has a strong ratio of female representatives, which can be acknowledged in a time where this still remains a challenge in many firms.’
‘Kellyann Ozouf is a top-notch practitioner. Fully dedicated and committed to her clients with great strategic views. She never fails to think out of the box and come up with creative and innovative approach.’
‘The team throughout the Channel Islands worked seamlessly to ensure we connected with the right person. They were all very approachable and knowledgeable.’
‘Kellyann Ozouf was very professional and yet friendly, she provided us with the guidance and assistance we required. Her patience in helping and guiding us through the client communications in order to achieve the desired outcome was greatly appreciated.’
‘Kellyann Ozouf is fantastic. She has both a commercial and technical ability that allows her to navigate workable solutions for clients.’
‘Collas Crill are my go-to firm – not only do they make doing business together easier but they have the diversity of legal practice in house to provide the holistic services our private client structures need. It really is such a pleasure to work with Collas Crill.’
Work highlights
- Advising Nedbank on the first mistake application in relation to a Jersey foundation, in which the Jersey court agreed to set aside the endowments made by the founders into the foundation and for the foundation to be subsequently wound up.
- Advising a trustee of a Jersey trust in relation to a significant German tax liability which could see a German resident beneficiary potentially imprisoned if the matter is not handled strictly in accordance with advice received from leading German lawyers.
- Advising an ultra-high-net-worth client and her son as beneficiaries of a Jersey trust on the restructuring of a trust prior to the sale by the trustees of the family-built business for approximately £100m.
Guernsey > Investment funds Tier 3
The 'commercially and technically excellent' corporate finance and funds team at Collas Crill has a strong open-ended funds practice, and practice head Wayne Atkinson recently advised on closed-ended formations for South African managers. Including senior associate Gareth Morgan, the team is actively advising on green, renewable and social impact funds. Co-head Paul Wilkes stepped down from the partnership to establish his own venture capital fund, though is still retained as of counsel.
Practice head(s):
Paul Wilkes; Wayne Atkinson
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very personable team that are supportive and provide solid guidance.’
‘Paul Wilkes tries to understand the client and match their needs to the law. He is proactive and grasps matters quickly.’
‘The responsiveness of the team, the willingness to go an extra mile, and a very commercial approach.’
‘I have worked with Paul Wilkes and Wayne Atkinson. Both were very commercial and technically excellent. I appreciated their responsiveness and keenness to make things work for my client. Top service and commercially priced as well.’
Key clients
Alpha Investment Funds PCC Limited
Freedom Asset Management Limited
SA Alpha PCC Limited
RAW Capital Partners
Marlborough International Management Limited
Darwin Property Investment Management Limited
Riverside Capital Limited
Trend Ventures PCC Limited
The Channel Islands Property Fund Limited
Ravenscroft Investment Management Limited
Rozendal Partners PTY Limited
White Star Capital Group
Cazenove Capital Management Limited
Rangemore Advisory Limited
Peregrine Guernsey Limited
Slater Investments Limited
Seek Ventures GP Limited
Sanlam Investments UK Limited
Sygnia Group
MJ Hudson
Resolute Capital Partners Ltd
Next Energy
Work highlights
- Advised Freedom Asset Management Limited in connection with the listing of the first Abu Dhabi Global Market established fund on TISE.
- Advised Alpha Investment Funds PCC Limited on the establishment and regulatory registration of a Guernsey investment fund aimed at venture capital initiatives in the life sciences, engineering, environmental and technology sectors.
- Acted for Resolute Capital Partners (a US-based investment management firm) on the structuring, regulation and launch of RCP Investment Funds PCC Limited, a protected cell company and the launch of its first two cells, each of which operate as feeder funds into US-based referral funds of a US-based master fund with interests in US infrastructure projects.
Jersey > Corporate and commercial Tier 3
Collas Crill's corporate, finance and funds vertical maintains a strong reputation in the transport sector, displayed by Matthew Gilley’s handling of critical corporate restructuring exercises and share acquisitions for airline client Blue Islands. Gilley also leads on high-value trust company acquisitions while practice head Mike Williams’ practice cuts across the corporate, capital markets and financial lending disciplines.
Practice head(s):
Mike Williams
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Mike Williams is incredibly hands-on and responsive during a transaction. He gets the job done on time and within budget.’
‘Mike Williams is highly experienced, very concise and clear yet very approachable and easy to deal with. His advice is always definitive and identifies issues and finds pragmatic solutions.’
‘Accessible, knowledgeable, quick, pragmatic, experience.’
‘What attracts me to Mike Williams is that he is not only advising on both the BVI and Jersey but he actually lived and practised in both countries.’
‘Practical advice displaying understanding of a company management’s concerns and issues. Understanding of the London Stock Exchange listing requirements’
‘Accessible, knowledgeable, practical, realistic and timely.’
Key clients
Blue Islands
BodySmart Finance
Condor Ferries
Hawksford
Highvern (formerly Coutts trust company)
ISP Securities AG
JTC
KPMG
Liberation Group
Mail.ru Group
Nedgroup Trust
RBC Trustees
Sanne
Stonehage Fleming
TEAM plc
Work highlights
- Advising on the acquisition by JTC Group of RBC cees which administers benefit plans with circa £11 billion of assets under management.
- Advised the Channel Islands Property Fund on the financing, property and corporate aspects of the share acquisition of a company owning commercial offices.
- Advised Blue Islands Limited on (i) moving its base of operations into Jersey; (ii) corporate restructuring of the airline’s ownership; and (iii) a £10m loan facility from the States of Jersey in order to provide the airline with working capital in light of pressures placed upon the airline (and aviation industry in general) as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Guernsey > Capital markets
Jersey > Investment funds Tier 2
Collas Crill advises on fund formations and management across the breadth of asset classes, with mid-cap and top-shelf investors, as well as licensed fund service providers, appearing in the client portfolio. Recently the team handled real estate fund launches and associated fund financing issues. Taking over from the recently departed Dilmun Leach (who joined WALKERS), practice head Sam Sturrock brings client-facing fund administration and regulatory skills from his role at Jersey Finance.
Practice head(s):
Sam Sturrock
Testimonials
‘I have known Sam Sturrock for many years – he is a stand-out lawyer – clearly knowing his area inside out but importantly personable, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.’
‘The Collas Crill team are consistently knowledgeable and helpful. Over the years I have dealt with the firm, the personnel may have changed but the level of service has remained the same.’
‘The Collas Crill team are not only experts but personable. They are a pleasure to deal with.’
‘Although a smaller player in the funds market, they provide a more personal touch.’
‘I work with Sam Sturrock, who is a highly capable and technical lawyer.’
‘Great and knowledgeable lawyers, very responsive.’
‘I worked with Sam Sturrock who has been very responsive, helpful and knowledgeable. Great person to work with.’
Key clients
Gemini Capital Management (Ireland) Limited
Persepolis Investments
Work highlights
- Advised on the Jersey legal aspects of a launch of a sub-fund of GemCap Investment Funds (Ireland) which is an open-ended UCITS fund with an AUM of approximately €1.24bn.
- Advised on the private placement of interests to Jersey investors of a Cayman-exempted limited partnership established by a leading bank investing the substantial majority of its capital in distressed, stressed and deep-value opportunities, targeting the debt of middle-market companies and assets.
- Acted on the private placement of interests to Jersey investors of a Cayman-exempted limited partnership established by a leading bank investing in real estate investments in Europe and the US. The fund structure has AUM of approximately $7.5bn.
Cayman Islands > Trusts/private client
Headed up by the Guernsey-based David Cooney since the November 2020 departure of Tom Mylott, Collas Crill’s international trust and private client department has a proven track record in handling the full gamut of contentious and non-contentious matters. Instructed by a wide range of institutional trustees, family offices, high-net-worth individuals, trustees, settlors, beneficiaries and protectors, the department excels in the foundation of STAR Trust and foundation companies, cross-border wealth structuring matters, and complex trust litigation. Locally in Cayman, counsel Andrew Peedom and senior associate Sally Peedom play key supporting roles.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘My contact at Collas Crill is David Cooney, a Cayman qualified lawyer located in their Guernsey office. David is a first-rate practitioner: he is highly technical, responsive, and client friendly. He is definitely my “go-to” Cayman lawyer for private client trust matters.’
‘The team is one of very few that can deliver Cayman Islands law advice in the European time zone. It provides very practical and commercially orientated advice that is notable by being decisive and conclusive, not fence sitting. The quality and service delivery are outstanding and they work well with counsel in other firms.’
‘David Cooney is an exceptional Cayman Islands-qualified lawyer in trusts and wealth structuring. He stands out against the competition based in the Cayman Islands because of his superior commercial understanding and delivery of practical, succinct advice and solutions. He represents great value for clients and is a pleasure to instruct on Cayman matters, he delivers swiftly and communicates well.’
‘Their team showed tremendous experience in dealing with the Trust’s representatives and reach a suitable agreement for the client, by dealing with the Trust.‘
‘Andrew and Sally Peedom are highly responsive and willing to jump in at a moment’s notice. Their follow up is remarkable! They have a lot of experience dealing with trust-related matters, we liked that both Sally and Andrew are quite approachable and easy to get on with.’
‘This is a team dedicated to client services.’
‘Sally Peedom always gives timely advice tailored to client needs.’
Work highlights
- Acting for a variety of ultra high net-worth clients on their use of Cayman Islands Foundation Companies for philanthropic purposes.
- Representing a Cayman trustee seeking to restructure a large dynastic family trust in the creation two new Cayman trusts for different branches of the family.
- Acting on an ongoing basis for a technology company on its development and ensuing restructuring of a global employee stock option regime, which is carried out through various trust structures.
Collas Crill > Firm Profile
Collas Crill is an offshore firm with offices in BVI, Cayman, Guernsey, Jersey and London. With 38 partners and directors, and 80 other lawyers and legal professionals, Collas Crill delivers a comprehensive range of legal services to clients locally and around the globe.
Clients include some of the world’s leading financial institutions, international businesses, trusts and funds, as well as HNW individuals and families, alongside an established network of independent and trusted partners.
The firm is committed to the local communities in which it operates and to the wellbeing of their people, and seeks to build and develop a reflective CSR programme.
Practice areas
Banking and finance: Collas Crill’s banking and finance teams in Guernsey, Jersey, BVI and Cayman act on both borrower and lender side for banks, funds, institutional and private investors, government linked organisations and global development corporations. They are on the panel of and work for leading retail banks including RBS, HSBC, Santander as well as private banks such as Investec, Coutts, Rothschild and Arbuthnot Latham and Islamic banks (namely ABC, BLME, ADIB, QIB, Gatehouse and Al Rayan Bank).
The firm has particular expertise in –
- (a) real estate finance (in financing investment in office buildings, luxury apartments, warehouses, co-living and co-working accommodation, and leisure facilities to name a few)
- (b) Islamic finance transactions
- (c) acquisition and leveraged finance
- (d) structured finance, note issues
- (e) fund finance
- (f) debt restructuring
It is able to advise on BVI and Cayman finance matters from the Channel Islands in a UK time zone.
Capital markets: Collas Crill’s global capital markets team acts on a broad range of debt, equity and derivative capital markets transactions on all of the major exchanges in the UK, Europe and the US. We are typically instructed by an array of issuers, banks, brokers, underwriters, sponsors and other advisors in respect of initial applications, secondaries, M&A transactions (including by scheme of arrangement), warrant and option programmes, EBTs and general continuing obligations, and we have significant experience in acting for activist shareholders. Through our in house listing agents, we also provide a comprehensive legal and advisory service to international companies listing securities on The International Stock Exchange and the Cayman Islands Stock Exchange.
Commercial and residential property: Collas Crill’s full service property team in the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Guernsey and Jersey is recognised by clients for its responsive, friendly and commercially aware approach. The firm’s property specialists have the local knowledge and expertise to not only offer top quality advice on all residential and commercial property transactions, but to give meaningful opinions and anticipate challenges and opportunities at every stage of the process. The firm is consistently recognised as a leader across the Channels Islands and the Cayman Islands.
The firm acts for landlords and tenants, private individuals, banks, corporates and investments funds and works with the islands’ largest property developers of both residential and commercial property. Across the jurisdictions, the firm is known for advising on complex real estate transactions, boasting one of the largest and most experienced property teams.
In the Channel Islands, the firm also established a UK real estate and real estate finance team advising international clients investing in and financing UK real estate.
In the Cayman Islands, the firm has secured highly-coveted panel positions as preferred attorneys for most of the Class A Banks.
The team routinely is involved with negotiations with government authorities with respect to acquisitions, commercial activities, licencing and all regulatory matters.
Corporate and commercial: With offices in Guernsey, Jersey, BVI and Cayman, Collas Crill’s corporate team advises a broad range of banks, trust companies, private equity, listed and unlisted corporates, HNWs and families, their directors, and shareholders, with particular expertise in the energy, utilities, digital assets, medical, transport, licensed premises and real estate sectors. Work includes –
- (a) complex international M&A, especially in relation to regulated parties
- (b) corporate structuring, joint ventures, PE investment and fund vehicles, SPVs, SPACs and associated listing of vehicles on TISE
- (c) IPOs, secondary offerings and structured products
- (d) a top regulatory practice advising clients on a host of risk and regulation issues including investigations and disciplinary hearings, aspects of corporate governance, directors duties, AML, data protection, competition law and economic substance
- (e) restructuring, insolvency and migration of corporate vehicles
- (f) commercial agreements, distribution, outsourcing, technology and licensing contracts . The team also works closely with its top ranking litigation teams in each jurisdiction in relation to complex insolvencies and shareholder disputes.
Dispute resolution: One of the largest and most experienced teams in the Channel Islands, the Cayman Islands and the BVI, we handle –
- (1) commercial and financial services litigation including complex shareholder disputes and activism, Section 238 fair value proceedings, professional indemnity claims, contractual and investment fund disputes, fraud, asset tracing, enforcement actions and freezing injunctions
- (2) insolvency and restructuring, advising voluntary, provisional and official liquidators, liquidation committees, directors, creditors and investors, companies and shareholders in relation to liquidations, schemes of arrangement and compromise, restructuring strategies, and reduction of share capital petitions
- (3) contentious trusts and probate, acting for trustees, beneficiaries, settlors and protectors as well as parties to divorce proceedings impacting on offshore trusts and,
- (4) regulatory disputes, claims and investigations, including utilities regulation, TIEAs, enforcement action and breaches of sanctions, AML, data protection and money laundering laws and financial crime.
Investment funds: Collas Crill’s fund specialists offer advice on all aspects relating to the establishment, authorisation and structuring of funds and related investment vehicles. The firm has particular expertise acting for emerging managers who are building their business and acting for institutional investors, including acting for private equity funds and sovereign wealth funds on joint venture and fund investments, as well as planning their internal corporate structures.
International private client and trusts: We work with wealthy individuals, family controlled businesses and entrepreneurs to manage and protect wealth across generations, and to succession plan. We represent trustees, settlors, protectors and beneficiaries and have extensive experience of private wealth structuring including pensions, foundations and trusts, and we have particular experience of shariah compliant structuring. We work closely with our corporate and litigation teams in respect of corporate structures within family trusts, trust issues arising from divorce or family disputes, and contentious and semi-contentious trusts matters including mistake applications, and variations.
We also have a specialized team to assist in all aspects of wills, estate planning and administration, succession planning, probate, guardianship and powers of attorney.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Partner; Head of Commercial property; Residential property | Jason Green | jason.green@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734216 |
Partner; Commercial property; Residential property | Paul Nettleship | paul.nettleship@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734200 |
Partner; Head of Corporate and commercial; Funds; Risk and regulatory | Wayne Atkinson | wayne.atkinson@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734225 |
Group partner; Corporate and commercial; Banking and finance; Funds; Risk and regulatory; | Paul Wilkes | paul.wilkes@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734268 |
Managing partner; Head of dispute resolution; Insolvency and restructuring; Contentious trusts; Trust and fiduciary | Christian Hay | christian.hay@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734290 |
Partner; Dispute resolution; Insolvency and restructuring | Gareth Bell | gareth.bell@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734214 |
Group partner; Private client; Wills and estates | Joanne Seal | joanne.seal@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734261 |
Partner; Dispute resolution; Risk and regulatory; Insolvency and restructuring; Contentious trusts | Michael Adkins | michael.adkins@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734231 |
Partner; Dispute resolution; Contentious trusts; Employment | Ben Havard | ben.havard@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734248 |
Partner; Dispute resolution; Contentious trusts | David O'Hanlon | david.ohanlon@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734259 |
Group partner; Head of UK real estate | Michael Morris | michael.morris@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734263 |
Partner; Head of private client and trusts; Wills and estates | Angela Calnan | angela.calnan@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734233 |
Group partner; Corporate advisory, securities and capital markets | Simon Heggs | simon.heggs@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734825 |
Group partner; Private client and trusts | David Cooney | david.cooney@collascrill.com | +44 (1) 1481 734299 |
Partner; Family Law | Adrian Brown | adrian.brown@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734215 |
Partner; Family Law | Elizabeth Couch | elizabeth.couch@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734221 |
Of counsel; ispute resolution; Insolvency and restructuring | James Tee | james.tee@collascrill.com | +44 (0) 1481 734284 |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Michael Adkins | Michael is a Partner and Advocate, specialising in regulatory and public law… | View Profile |
![]() | Wayne Atkinson | Partner and Head of Collas Crill’s Corporate, Finance & Funds team. Wayne… | View Profile |
![]() | Gareth Bell | Partner, specialising in complex financial services litigation (including company/fund disputes, anti-money laundering,… | View Profile |
![]() | Annabel Bishop | Annabel is an associate in the corporate, finance and funds team. She… | View Profile |
![]() | Quentin Bregg | Quentin is a Senior Associate in our Dispute Resolution Department. Quentin specialises… | View Profile |
![]() | Adrian Brown | Adrian has more than 30 years experience as a family law practitioner.… | View Profile |
![]() | Angela Calnan | Angela is a group partner and heads the firm’s International Private Client… | View Profile |
![]() | David Cooney | Group Partner, International Private Client and Trust | View Profile |
![]() | Elizabeth Couch | Partner. Elizabeth is a highly regarded family law practitioner in Guernsey. She… | View Profile |
![]() | Jack Crisp | Associate specialising in corporate and commercial disputes, construction litigation, contentious trust matters… | View Profile |
![]() | Thomas Cutts-Watson | Tom is an Senior associate in the Guernsey office’s dispute resolution team.… | View Profile |
![]() | Cerisse Fisher | Senior Associate. Cerisse is a Senior Associate in the International Trusts and… | View Profile |
![]() | Jason Green | Partner and head of the property team in Guernsey. Expertise in all… | View Profile |
![]() | Ben Havard | Advocate and Partner in our dispute resolution team with a focus on… | View Profile |
![]() | Christian Hay | Managing Partner and Head of Dispute Resolution. Christian has extensive experience of… | View Profile |
![]() | Simon Heggs | Group Partner in the Corporate Finance & Funds Department. Simon advises on all aspects of… | View Profile |
![]() | David Jeffery | Senior associate within the dispute resolution department. Background specialising in personal injury… | View Profile |
![]() | Ben Le Page | Associate. Ben advises on all aspects of commercial law with a particular focus… | View Profile |
![]() | Donald Millar | Senior Associate. Donald is dual qualified to act in both Scotland and… | View Profile |
![]() | David Moore | Consultant. David has more than 30 years’ experience in corporate law, having… | View Profile |
![]() | Gareth Morgan | Senior Associate specialising in investment fund structuring and advice. Advises on the… | View Profile |
![]() | Michael Morris | Group Partner specialising in looking after funds, major financial institutions, and high net… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Nettleship | Partner. Paul heads up the Guernsey Property department. He has a broad… | View Profile |
![]() | Ben Newton | Associate. Having joined Collas Crill in August 2018, Ben previously worked as a… | View Profile |
![]() | David O"Hanlon | David is a partner in the Guernsey dispute resolution team at Collas… | View Profile |
![]() | Nin Ritchie | Of Counsel. Nin’s practice area covers a range of commercial regulatory and… | View Profile |
![]() | Harry Round | Associate. Harry assists a wide variety of corporate and private clients, including… | View Profile |
![]() | Joanne Seal | Group Partner and head of Wills and Estates in Guernsey. Advises on… | View Profile |
![]() | Emma Taylor | Emma is an Associate in the Guernsey Dispute Resolution Team. Emma assists… | View Profile |
![]() | James Tee | James is Of Counsel in the dispute resolution department team. James advises… | View Profile |
![]() | Alex Wickens | Senior Associate Alex is a senior associate in the Corporate, Finance and… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Wilkes | Consultant. Paul advises on all elements of investment fund establishment, regulation and downstream… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of partners and directors : 16 Number of other fee-earners : 24Disputes Yearbook 2020
Briefing
After a busy year in offshore litigation, what
lies ahead in 2020? (https://www.legalbusiness.co.uk/analysis/disputes-yearbook-2020/sponsored-briefing-after-a-busy-year-in-offshore-litigation-what-lies-ahead-in-2020/)
Christian Hay gives an overview of Collas Crill’s disputes work in 2019 and discusses the challenges and trends that can be expected over the next year
- Commercial property
- Dispute resolution
- Commercial property
- Dispute resolution
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Banking and finance
- Corporate and M&A
- Private client, trusts and tax
- Banking and finance
- Investment funds
- Private client, trusts and tax
Firm Rankings
- Jersey > Investment funds