Ms Emma Simmonds > Akin > London, England > Lawyer Profile

Displaying ‘a very collaborative approach’ which draws from the expertise of complementary practice groups, as well as international offices, Akin provides ‘strategic guidance’ on complex cross-border matters and is ‘very strong at managing creditor group dynamics’. Although the firm continues to pick up some debtor mandates, including several involving complex Russian sanctions-related issues, the team remains best-known for its bondholder work, both in the context of primary and secondary credit investors. ‘Class act’ Emma Simmonds offers ‘sensible and commercial advice’ to bondholders, including pension funds, CLOs and hedge funds, on both stressed and distressed situations and excel in maximising returns for stakeholders in challenging circumstances. James Terry is ‘very strategic in his approach to delivering client solutions’ and is noted for his expertise in the oil and gas/offshore market. Jacquie Ingram ‘is very technical and always on top of the detail’, and her arrival in January 2024 from Milbank further enhances the firm’s creditor-side credentials, in light of her strong traction among par and secondary investors and her expertise at delivering solutions in complex cross-border mandates. Tom Bannister and Sam Brodie are also key members of the team, handling work for institutional and distressed investors. The vastly experienced Barry Russell co-heads the team alongside Terry.