Latham & Watkins > London, England > Firm Profile
Latham & Watkins Offices
99 BISHOPSGATE
LONDON
EC2M 3XF
England
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Latham & Watkins > The Legal 500 Rankings
Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets – mid-large cap Tier 1
Latham & Watkins‘ UK-based ECM practice is recognised throughout the market for its expertise advising on cross-border deals, particularly complex fund raisings and transformative M&A, as well as large IPOs and direct listings on the London Stock Exchange (LSE). In addition to its strong UK presence, the team regularly lends its expertise to high-profile deals throughout the EMEA region. Technology-related transactions are also a core pillar of the group’s practice in the space, advising some of the world’s largest tech companies on critical transactions. James Inness and Chris Horton jointly lead the team: Horton is a key name for advising listed companies, investment banks, and asset managers on a variety of complex ECM, M&A, and regulatory matters, while Inness is the go-to name in the department for listings on the LSE. The team was bolstered by the arrival of renowned ECM practitioner Mark Austin from Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP in June 2023. Other key figures include Anna Ngo, who acts on primary and secondary equity capital markets transactions and public M&A transactions.Practice head(s):
James Inness; Chris Horton
Other key lawyers:
Mark Austin; Anna Ngo; Ryan Benedict
Testimonials
‘Excellent client service. Always working at the forefront of legal developments. L&W are our go-to law firm with experts in ECM throughout each region.’
‘Chris Horton and James Inness deliver best in class legal advice, always working with sensible commercial views and good humour in often pressurised situations.’
‘Supremely knowledgable on all things capital markets yet still a pleasure to work with and amazingly down to earth. Have built one of the largest teams based in London giving unprecedented strength in depth. The are the best, arguably only, firm that can provide the highest quality of ECM legal advice on either a UK or US listing, with an impressive private fund raising team as well.’
‘Chris Horton – extremely hands on and approachable, pragmatic and sensible all underpinned by 20 years of experienced.’
‘James Innes – thorough, friendly and pleasure to deal with daily. ‘
Work highlights
Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions – high-value deals (£250m+) Tier 1
Many of the foremost private equity houses in the market – both domestic and international – turn to the sizeable team at Latham & Watkins for its expertise in high-value transactions across a range of sectors, ranging from multi-billion-dollar take-privates to corporate carve-outs. Practice co-chair David Walker is a highly experienced adviser who frequently handles big-ticket deals for major American and European PE firms. Fellow co-chair Kem Ihenacho, who serves as global co-chair of the firm’s PE practice group, has most recently advised on acquisitions and divestitures in the financial services, energy, and manufacturing sectors, to name a few. Paul Dolman regularly works with clients on leveraged acquisitions and investment transactions, while Tom Evans‘ recent highlights include multi-billion-pound buy and sell-side mandates across a range of industries. Other key figures include Farah O’Brien, a tech and life sciences specialist who also serves as co-chair of the firm’s London corporate department; Mike Bond, a key contact for various investors and portfolio companies; and Linzi Thomas, whose recent engagements span the life sciences and consumer goods sectors. Katie Peek and Maarten Overmars, both of whom were promoted to partner in January 2023, are also recommended.Practice head(s):
David Walker; Kem Ihenacho
Other key lawyers:
Paul Dolman; Tom Evans; Farah O’Brien; Linzi Thomas; Katie Peek; Maarten Overmars
Testimonials
‘Strong expertise and high quality partners.’
‘David Walker is a great lawyer – very experienced and able to negotiate complex issues. Despite his seniority, he is always available and very detail-oriented, which makes him a pleasure to work with across the most strategic topics as well as tactical ones.’
Key clients
ArchiMed
Astorg Partners
BC Partners
Blackstone
Bridgepoint
Brookfield
Canada Pension Plan Investment Board
Centerbridge
Cinven
CPDQ
CVC Capital Partners
EQT
Equistone
Epiris
Francisco Partners
GIC
Global Infrastructure Partners
Goldman Sachs
GTCR
Helios Investment Partners
Hellman & Friedman
Inflexion
KKR
KSL Capital Partners
L Catterton
Leonard Green & Partners
Madison Dearborn Partners
Nordic Capital
OMERS Infrastructure
OTPP
One Rock
Onex Corporation
Partners Group
Permira
Platinum Equity
PSP
Silver Lake Partners
Spectrum Equity
TA Associates
The Carlyle Group
TPG
Finance > Acquisition finance Tier 1
The versatile and balanced practice at Latham & Watkins has the strength-in-depth to handle a tremendous volume and range of work for creditors and debtors funding acquisitions utilising debt from the thriving private credit and the syndicated/institutional investor markets. Consequently, the firm, which also has broad international resources in Europe and its US headquarters, has an excellent perspective of market norms and “pinch points” from both sides of the table, and in the recent volatile market has been a welcome ‘oasis of knowledge’ for lenders and sponsors. Stephen Kensell and Sam Hamilton are two of the most well-respected practitioners in the market, with Kensell providing succour to lenders providing debt to both corporates and sponsors on their M&A activity, and Hamilton drawing on a wealth of experience for sponsors across myriad finance products. Dominic Newcomb and Jayanthi Sadanandan are also both highly skilled at handling borrower work, with both sponsors and corporates benefiting from their wealth of knowledge on funding solutions throughout the capital structure. On the creditor front, Dan Maze has strong traction for banking and credit fund clients, as does Manoj Bhundia. Tania Bedi , whose versatile client base includes banks, funds and corporates, co-heads the overarching finance team alongside Maze. Joseph Kimberling is also recommended. A four-strong team of lawyers including Mohamed Nurmohamed and Ross Anderson left for Paul Hastings LLP in summer 2022.Practice head(s):
Tania Bedi; Dan Maze
Other key lawyers:
Charles Armstrong; Sam Hamilton; Joseph Kimberling; Dominic Newcomb; Fergus O’Domhnaill; Jay Sadanandan; Ben Wright; Manoj Bhundia; Stephen Kensell; Ross Pooley; Hendrik Smit
Testimonials
‘The team is an oasis of knowledge across a range of debt finance products.’
‘What makes Latham unique is the breadth and depth of the firm’s capabilities and expertise, and how efficiently they bring these capabilities to bear for a transaction. We worked with Latham on a complex, cross-border debt and equity financing…the team’s debt experts were able to come up with a unique strategy to efficiently get security on assets in key jurisdictions, and were also able to creatively engineer our complex structured instrument. Latham also brought in its tax experts to advise extensively, which was critical to the structuring of a complex, cross-border financing. Latham had an answer for everything, and did it in a coordinated, efficient manner’
‘Hendrik Smit was an absolute pleasure to work with. There was no problem he couldn’t solve, and no matter how complex the transaction became, he was never discouraged, maintained the same positive can-do attitude, and always came up with an elegant solution.’
Key clients
Goldman Sachs
JP Morgan
Bank of America
Barclays
BNPP
Morgan Stanley
Deutsche Bank
Blackstone Credit
Ares Management
HSBC
KKR Asset Management
Astorg Partners
Nordic Capital
Brookfield Asset Management
Partners Group
CVC
Bridgepoint
Platinum Equity
Onex
EQT Partners
TA Associates
Ares Management Ltd
Energy Capital Partners
Work highlights
Finance > Corporate restructuring & insolvency Tier 1
Led from London by Bruce Bell and also able to leverage considerable resources across its global offices, Latham & Watkins is well-positioned to handle debtor and creditor work on large-scale international restructurings, often involving the unwinding of complex financial products, including UK and US law-governed debt. The firm’s detailed knowledge of European and US insolvency procedures is also a key strength, affording clients the comfort that the firm will be able to utilise the most appropriate technique available in a holistic manner alongside practitioners in key global financial centres. Yen Sum has deep familiarity of insolvency/restructuring procedures which she is able to rely on, should the need arise, on behalf of her core client base of investors/alternative capital providers seeking to realise value in special situations and distressed investments. Simon J Baskerville and David Wallace are also very effective practitioners at the more transactional end of the market, with both regularly working with fund clients to pinpoint opportunities within the distressed market, including through debt-for-equity swaps. Jennifer Brennan is also a key member of the team who is noted for her skill at providing ‘extremely commercial and deeply technical advice’ to bondholders and alternative capital providers on large multi-jurisdictional transactions.Practice head(s):
Bruce Bell
Other key lawyers:
Yen Sum; Simon Baskerville; Jennifer Brennan; Jessica Walker; David Wallace; Hugo Bowkett; James Chesterman
Testimonials
‘Jennifer Brennan is a formidable borrower-side lawyer who provides extremely commercial and deeply technical advice.’
‘An incredible amount of diversity and knowledge within the team, they constantly go above and beyond on each deal that I have worked on with them. I appreciate the attention to detail and commercial understanding of the partners who I feel set out the challenges and what is realistic to the client.’
‘Yen Sum is fantastic to work with, she understands what the client wants and constantly thinks of creative ways to achieve the best outcome. She is fantastic and managing various stakeholders in a process and will go above and beyond.’
Key clients
Blackstone Credit
New Look
Bain Credit
Barings Asset Management
Alcentra
Credit Suisse Asset Management
Goldman Sachs
J.P. Morgan
BC Partners
Partners Group
Hong Kong Airlines
Work highlights
- Advised the ad hoc committee of noteholders, in connection with the restructuring of Haya Real Estate, the largest Spanish real estate servicing company and the largest bank-independent third-party servicer of real estate developer loans (REDs) and real estate owned assets (REOs) in Spain.
- Defended New Look in a case concerning the Group’s company voluntary arrangement (CVA), approved during the financial and operational restructuring of New Look in 2020.
- Advised a committee of senior lenders in connection with the successful financial recapitalization of Hilding Anders, a leading global bedding and mattress company.
Finance > High yield Tier 1
Latham & Watkins maintains the largest high yield bond practice in London, comprised of ‘smart, responsive and efficient experts who offer practical and timely advice and work tirelessly to help you achieve your goals‘. The firm had a role in almost 60% of the high yield issuances in Europe in 2022, though its work is not limited to new bond offerings. Practice head Brett Cassidy and newly promoted partner Pat Kwak recently acted for deal managers including Credit Suisse and BofA Securities on an £237m exchange offer – one of the first in Europe for several years – as part of its growing volume of liability management work. Jennifer Engelhardt and Matthew Schneider assisted IK Investment with obtaining committed bridge financing and the subsequent take-out via a €350m notes issuance in connection with its acquisition of Renta Group Oy. The highly regarded Francesco Lione handled a £475m offering for Zenith; and Scott Colwell handled STADA’s €1.38bn exchange offer on behalf of dealer managers. ‘The individuals are always available almost at any time, and come back quickly with professional answers to any question’, remarks one client.Practice head(s):
Brett Cassidy
Other key lawyers:
Jocelyn Seitzman; Pat Kwak; Jennifer Engelhardt; Matthew Scheider; Francesco Lione; Scott Colwell
Testimonials
‘The team is comprised of different experts which allows us as a client to get advice from different areas. The team knows how to work with other teams in the firm with a seamless experience to the client.’
‘The individuals are always available almost at any time, and come back quickly with professional answers to any question.’
‘True experts in their field – technically and commercially.’
‘100% committed to client service, delightful to work with, true experts who operate pragmatically to ensure the best possible outcome in the most efficient way. Nothing is too much trouble and I would not want to work with any other team. Jocelyn Seitzman is a standout individual.’
‘Smart, responsive and efficient experts that offer practical and timely advice and work tirelessly to help you achieve your goals.’
Key clients
Credit Suisse
HSBC
Goldman Sachs
Bank of America
J.P. Morgan
EG Group
CVC Capital Partners
Hellman & Friedman
Permira Advisers
Zenith
Industry focus > TMT Tier 1
Latham & Watkins delivers expertise across complex transactions involving contractual issues, regulatory matters, data protection, privacy and litigation support. Global chair Gail Crawford advises on compliance and regulatory matters. He co-heads the team with Andrew Moyle who is experienced in handling high-value contracts and transactions. Christian McDermott has particular expertise in matters relating to NFTs and digital assets while Fiona Maclean advises on the regulatory implications of specific data-centric tech.Practice head(s):
Gail Crawford; Andrew Moyle
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Meta
Farfetch
DigitalBridge Group
Viasat, Inc.
Virtual1
Global Infrastructure Partners
KKR
NVIDIA Corporation
OEP Capital Investors
FACEIT
Savvy Gaming Group
MBC Group
Moonbug Entertainment Limited
DAZN
VEON
Vodafone
Work highlights
- Advised Viasat Inc. on its definitive agreement to acquire Inmarsat for US$7.3 billion.
- Advised Global Infrastructure Partners and KKR in their acquisition of a majority stake in Vantage Towers valued at US$16 billion.
- Advised Farfetch on its strategic acquisition of a 47.5% stake in YOOX Net-a-Porter.
Projects, energy and natural resources > Infrastructure: M&A and acquisition financing Tier 1
Latham & Watkins fields a team of ‘infrastructure specialists’ possessing an ‘incredibly impressive breadth of experience across all major financings.’ The firm has a deep bench of transaction finance practitioners who can competently advise on mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures and co-investments, as well as advising funds and strategics on financing a range of infrastructure and energy deals. The firm regularly advises leading PE investors through financing and refinancing infrastructure deals. Team head Conrad Andersen draws praise from clients as one of the most experienced figures in the infrastructure space, offering advice to lenders on complex infrastructure financing deals. Seonaid Todisco specialises in all aspects of infrastructure and energy acquisitions and financings across core and hybrid infrastructure . Co-practice head Simon Tysoe is an established M&A practitioner, with particular strength in oil & gas and energy, while corporate and PE partner Beatrice Lo is well regarded for her work in the energy transition sphere. Rebecca Crowley is also praised by clients as being one of the ‘best in the business’ for acquisition finance expertise. Well-regarded infrastructure M&A partner Brendan Moylan left for Weil, Gotshal & Manges (London) LLP in March 2023.Practice head(s):
Conrad Andersen; Simon Tysoe
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Clear in the explanation of key material issues and strong commercial advice given. Strong team and bench, transparent in all interactions.’
‘Latham has a team who work together as a unit and are highly resilient when faced with difficult transaction deadlines or negotiations. The team are infrastructure specialists, but learnings between sectors in infrastructure can be usefully applied to maintain best practice and market innovation in structuring documentation packages.’
‘Conrad leads the team and has a depth of experience across infrastructure sectors and geographies which is invaluable in establishing efficient financing platforms. Leads a deep team, with resilience and significant client focus.’
‘Conrad Andersen and Rebecca Crowley are the best in the business’
‘Incredibly impressive breadth of experience across all major financings in the infrastructure space, providing them with a unique ability to comprehensively state what the market is.’
‘Conrad Andersen continues to be top of our (and seemingly all other financial sponsors’ and debt advisors’) list for sponsor counsel on complex financings. His experience, commerciality and effectiveness of negotiation style is unrivalled.’
‘Conrad and Seonaid are both market leading partners with huge experience. There is also a deep bench of high quality associates. When we use L&W we know that we get excellent partner engagement and exceptional deal execution’
‘Conrad Andersen is the pre-eminent infrastructure finance lawyer in London market. He has an unsurpassed depth of experience and technical knowledge. He is excellent at acting for both borrowers and lenders and can always be relied upon to act in a collaborative and commercial manner. He is our first port of call when we are asked to recommend infrastructure lawyers to our clients.’
Key clients
3i Infrastructure
Allianz Global Investors
APG
DigitalBridge Group
IFM Investors
ING Bank N.V. London Branch
Antin Infrastructure Partners
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
DWS
Schroders Capital
Suez
Swiss Life
FSI / Igneo
Gresham House Energy Storage Fund
IFM Investors
National Australia Bank
Ontario Teachers
KKR
Global Infrastructure Partners
EIG
Work highlights
- Advising on the refinancing for Finerge Europe Holding S.a.r.l., a renewable energy producer, to refinance existing debt.
- Advising in connection with the platform financing for Hippocrates Holding S.p.A., a company that manages and acquires pharmacies across Italy.
- Advised on the acquisition by Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) and KKR of a majority stake in Vantage Towers, a Germany-based mobile telecommunications tower infrastructure operator, in a joint venture with Vodafone.
Projects, energy and natural resources > Oil and gas Tier 1
Latham & Watkins‘ large-scale energy and infrastructure practice group is well-experienced throughout the oil and gas sectors, drawing on the firm’s global reach to act on multi-jurisdictional mandates with a particular emphasis on African and Middle Eastern markets. Core pillars of the multidisciplinary practice include M&A, leveraged buy-outs, project finance, litigation, environment and sanctions. Experienced practitioner Simon Tysoe leads the group, with his practice emphasising cross-border work including oil and gas M&A, joint ventures, restructurings, and project development. Sam Newhouse is a go-to name for high-value public and private M&A transactions and joint ventures. Finance partner Craig Nethercott left for Clifford Chance in autumn 2023.Practice head(s):
Simon Tysoe
Other key lawyers:
John Balsdon, Sam Newhouse; David Ziyambi; Jennifer Engelhardt; Evelyne Girio
Testimonials
‘The team is familiar with us as a company and with individuals on our in-house team – so they are able to tailor their approach depending on the individual in-house lawyers on the deal it makes them super user friendly.’
‘Great global coverage, huge experience in LNG.’
Work highlights
Real estate > Environment Tier 1
The team at Latham & Watkins is experienced advising its broad array of clients, including governments, companies, shareholders, and investors, on significant ESG matters, in particular. The team advises on the financial as well as the wider implications of implementing necessary changes therein and its work often international in scope, spanning numerous jurisdictions. Notably, it assists such key clients as Microsoft and American Airlines on potential their investments in new technologies and initiatives, with a view to offsetting their carbon usage. A key area of focus for the team has been advising on legislative initiatives such as the EU Green Deal and the EU’s Sustainable Finance Action Plan. ‘Thought-leader’ Paul Davies is at the helm of the team. Davies is supported by specialist counsel Michael Green, who ably advises namely corporate bodies on ESG and sustainability best practices, as well as providing more general strategic and contentious advice in these areas.Practice head(s):
Paul Davies
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Paul Davies is a thought leader who transformed the environmental practice into a leading ESG practice long before others came across ESG.’
‘The team are available, responsive, thorough, to-the-point, and good business partners.’
‘Paul Davies leads the team well to make sure they respond to our needs quickly and efficiently, and remain accessible for any follow-ups we might need.’
Key clients
Platinum Equity
Microsoft Corporation
The Carlyle Group
Venator Materials PLC
Archroma
Triton Partners
American Airlines
Medline
Trafigura
Energy Capital Partners
SABIC Petrochemicals
SK Capital
Public Investment Fund
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech Tier 1
Praised for handling complex mandates ‘at the intersection of technology and regulation’, Latham & Watkins advises across the fintech spectrum, with market infrastructure, blockchain, consumer credit and insurtech among the group’s key areas of strength. The London-based Andrew Moyle, global co-chair of the firm’s fintech industry group, is equipped to handle complex cross-border technology deals for clients from a wide variety of sectors. Stuart Davis leads the London fintech team and is praised for combining ‘deep technical expertise’ with commercial sensibilities. Payments and crypto specialist Christian McDermott is noted for his focus on the monetisation of assets via NFTs. Sam Maxson is particularly strong in the field of cryptoassets, while financial regulation expert Gabriel Lakeman is a key contact for banks, insurers and investment companies. Brett Carr‘s diverse practice extends to advising central banks on fintech regulatory regimes.Practice head(s):
Andrew Moyle
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Brilliant understanding of the payments market. They provide excellent commercial advice.’
‘Stuart Davis is an exceptional payments and fintech lawyer. He understands complex regulatory issues and provides excellent commercial advice.
Christian McDermott is very responsive. He has a deep knowledge of the market and is always focused on providing high-quality and practical advice.
Brett Carr is one to watch. He has excellent industry and market knowledge. He is very responsive and consistently delivers timely and actionable advice.
‘Superb knowledge at the intersection of technology and regulation.’
‘Stuart Davis has deep technical expertise but at the same time his advice is commercial and actionable.’
‘World class team. I would not hesitate to label them the best fintech team out there.’
‘Andrew Moyle is a master of bringing clarity and clear strategy through the most complex of problems.’
Work highlights
- Advising Floww on regulatory, commercial and corporate structuring matters in relation to its platform launch and fundraising.
- Advising Transcard on all aspects of its expansion into the UK and Europe.
- Legal counsel to Elwood Technologies, providing legal and regulatory advice and advising on its £70m Series A financing round.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 1
The data and technology transactions practice at Latham & Watkins delivers specialist advice to companies on all stages of their lifecycle covering contractual issues, outsourcing, procurement, data protection and privacy. The team, which is experienced in disruptive technologies and issues pertaining to IP and licensing, is jointly led by data privacy and security expert Gail Crawford and Andrew Moyle, who stands out for his expertise in outsourcing and fintech matters. Fiona Maclean handles the regulatory implications of data-centric technologies, while transactional lawyer Christian McDermott has been at the forefront of developments surrounding NFTs and digital assets. Elva Cullen, who focuses on IP-related matters and online platforms regulatory issues, is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Gail Crawford; Andrew Moyle
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘High quality service delivered seamlessly on demand. Technically excellent and good breadth of expertise across the team.’
‘Very strong bench with subject matter expertise, allowing the team to handle complex transactions.’
‘Christian McDermott is a technical expert, who also gives practical advice and understands client motivations. He is patient and tireless in the face of difficult opposing counsel.’
Key clients
Meta Platforms, Inc.
Snap, Inc.
Farfetch
Dapper Labs
DigitalBridge Group, Inc.
OEP Capital Investors
Intuit, Inc.
NVIDIA Corporation
Credit Suisse
AllianceBernstein
Norgine Europe B.V.
Madison Dearborn Partners
Viasat Inc.
Virtual1
Global Infrastructure Partners
KKR
TeamViewer
Work highlights
- Advised Farfetch on commercial matters in connection with its acquisition of a 47.5% stake in YOOX Net-a-Porter.
- Advised DigitalBridge Group on the technology and commercial agreements in connection with its US$820 million acquisition of Telenet’s Mobile Telecommunication Tower Business.
- Advised Viasat, Inc on technology and commercial agreements in connection with its definitive agreement to acquire Inmarsat for US$7.3 billion.
Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 2
Latham & Watkins stands out for its capability in large-scale financial services-related transactions, with demonstrable experience advising on matters concerning ESG, consumer credit, conduct and culture, market abuse and SMCR, among others. Nicola Higgs leads the team and acts for global investment entities on the sale of derivative products, while Rob Moulton is noted for his expertise in European regulatory developments, such as MiFID and MAR. Other key contacts in the team include counsel Becky Critchley, who focuses on consumer protection, structured finance transactions and benchmark regulation, and associate Anne Mainwaring, who advises on UK and EU regulatory developments related to ESG. David Berman left in autumn 2023 to spearhead Covington's London financial services practice.Practice head(s):
Nicola Higgs
Other key lawyers:
Rob Moulton; Becky Critchley; Anne Mainwaring; Ella McGinn
Testimonials
‘This practice is one of the ‘go-to’ teams in the City for non-contentious regulatory advice for financial service firms. They are always on top of developing regulatory trends and provide outstanding client service. They seem comfortable with all types of work from discrete, technical regulatory queries to much wider projects covering multiple areas of a client’s business.’
‘Ella McGinn is a first-rate associate with an excellent eye for detail and very adept at identifying key information in a large pool of material (and creating solutions around it).’
‘The team has continued to host monthly webinars to run through the latest changes. This is a large team with a variety of expertise and so it’s resourced properly and efficiently. Great breadth of experience and staffed appropriately.’
Key clients
AllianceBernstein
Allianz Global Investors
Berenberg
Blackstone
Central Bank of Egypt
Deutsche Bank
Evelyn Partners
FXCM
Klarna Bank
Liberum
Investec
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group
Numis Securities
Royal Bank of Canada
S&P Global
Wellington Management
Work highlights
- Advising S&P Global on the regulatory aspects of the integration of its business with that of the newly merged IHS Markit business.
- Advising AllianceBernstein on the formation of its joint venture with Société Générale, an European bank, of each firms’ cash equities brokerage and research businesses.
- Advising Lowell, a portfolio company of Permira, on its bolt-on acquisition of Hoist Finance UK Limited, the UK credit management subsidiary of Hoist Finance AB.
Corporate and commercial > M&A: Upper Mid-Market And Premium Deals, £750m+ Tier 2
The ‘high-quality and responsive’ corporate and M&A team at Latham & Watkins offers a complete and ‘excellent and attentive service’ to companies and financial sponsors, covering corporate transactional and advisory matters. In the past year, the practice has advised on an impressive array of combinations, joint ventures, sales, restructurings and carve outs, and takeovers including the £4.25 billion acquisition of Chelsea Football Club and the $10.5 billion acquisition by Adani Group of two of India’s leading cement companies. Known for its strong credentials in multiple sectors including technology, pharmaceutical and healthcare and leisure and hospitality, the team is increasingly acting in regulated public deals as well as listing rule deals. Co-heading the London practice is Richard Butterwick , who offers his expertise in Takeover Code law and cross-border M&A work, assisting LSE listed companies, and technology, ESM and life sciences specialist Farah O'Brien, who acts for corporates, growth investors, sponsors and portfolio companies. Corporate finance and M&A lawyer Douglas Abernethy has recently led on public takeovers and take private transactions, also offering a sophisticated understanding of the UK takeover regulatory environment. Assisting global companies on a range of M&A, corporate advisory and governance work is Ed Barnett, while Nick Cline engages in UK and international cross-border M&A and acts as counsel on many boards. Vice Chair of the firm’s global healthcare and life sciences practice, Robbie McLaren, also has experience in the technology industry, handling acquisitions, capital raises, asset swaps and carve outs. Acting in the UK, US and emerging markets such as India and Africa, Sam Newhouse, regularly assists a range of clients including multinational companies, financial investors and financial institutions on public and private M&A, reorganisations, divestments and joint ventures. The team is to be strengthened further by the addition of Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP capital markets partner Mark Austin.Practice head(s):
Richard Butterwick; Farah O’Brien
Other key lawyers:
Doug Abernethy; Edward Barnett; Nick Cline; Robbie McLaren; Sam Newhouse; Hector Sants; James Innes; Koushik Prasad
Testimonials
‘Very good advice, not only on the legal front but also on the business fundamentals.’
‘A very result-oriented and humble team that is very attentive to client needs.’
‘A high-quality and responsive team that is strong both strategically and in the detail. They offered an excellent and attentive service that was superbly led.’
‘Very capable all-round lawyers, who are responsive, attentive and give clear advice. Nick Cline is a lawyer out of the very top drawer and gives clear measured advice. He is very responsive, unruffled and great to deal with. James Innes is clear and knowledgeable in his advice. Koushik Prasad is responsive and performs at a high level.’
Key clients
888 Holdings plc
Abcam plc
BenevolentAI
Blue Co 22 (Chelsea Football Club)
DAZN
Darktrace plc
EIG
Farfetch
GlaxoSmithKline
London Stock Exchange
Norgine
Tullow Oil
Vertical Aerospace
Vodafone
Work highlights
Corporate and commercial > Venture capital Tier 2
Leveraging 'excellent market understanding and a great grasp of market developments', as well as being able to tap into a huge European and US network of offices, and full-service expertise across many complementary practice areas, including capital markets, Latham & Watkins provides 'highly commercial advice' on the company side, as well as for investor clients. The team is particularly adept at advising on complex and sophisticated transactions, with a degree of flexibility and insight into what is market in Europe and the US, which is, according to one client: 'particularly useful in the current challenging climate'. 'Incredibly responsive and engaged, whilst at the same time remaining commercial and clear on the bigger picture', Shing Lo has a richly deserved market-leading reputation and 'makes incredibly complex and stressful transactions much easier'. Lo co-heads the emerging companies team alongside Mike Turner and Robbie McLaren , who are also industry stalwarts and adept at guiding companies from their seed financing through to late stage financing, IPO and beyond. The team has also developed a strong roster of 'responsive and reliable associates', including Samantha Peacock, who displays a 'great attention to detail' and Samantha Si , who has a 'good commercial understanding'.Practice head(s):
Mike Turner; Shing Lo; Robbie McLaren
Other key lawyers:
Samantha Peacock; Jon Fox; Katie Kaplucha; Samantha Si; Pierre-Axel Aberg
Testimonials
‘In bet-the-company transactions, they are not only deeply skilled, with outstanding and practical commercial knowledge, but they are also incredibly friendly, approachable and easy to get along with.’
‘Always available, always friendly and always providing excellent advice to get a transaction closed as quickly as possible. The best industry knowledge in the VC space.’
‘They have excellent market understanding and a great grasp of market developments.’
‘Shing Lo is the person you want on your side for high-stakes matters, and she should get all the praise that has come to her. She makes incredibly complex and stressful transactions much easier. Shing is a problem solver who thinks outside the box and comes up with commercial solutions.’
‘Shing Lo – Incredibly responsive and engaged, whilst at the same time remaining commercial and clear on the bigger picture.’
‘Samantha Peacock – great attention to detail, always moving deals forward at pace, really understands what we care about as a business.’
‘Samantha Si has good commercial understanding and is very reliable.’
Key clients
8VC
&Open
A16z
ATAI Life Sciences
Altruistiq
Atomico
Bloom & Wild
BenevolentAI
Burda
Bidnamic Yes
B-Flexion
Bessemer Venture Partners
Carbon Clean
Citi Ventures
Comply Advantage
Crowdcube
Darktrace
Elwood Technologies Services
Euler Yes
Exscientia
Hoxton Ventures
HSBC Financial Technology Venture Capital Fund
Work highlights
Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail Tier 2
At Latham & Watkins, the banking litigation practice frequently defends leading financial institutions in shareholder class actions and collective claims under s90 and s90 FSMA, as well as claims related to fraud and misrepresentation. The group, led by Andrea Monks, represents clients in complex, cross-jurisdictional disputes, as well as a range of domestic matters in the Supreme Court. Global vice chair of the practice Martin Davies is a key partner in the team, acting for claimants and defendants in collective actions work in the country. Nell Perks has a practice advising clients across the spectrum of financial services litigation, including complex and structured products disputes. Oliver Middleton is also recommended at partner level. At associate level, Alex Cox frequently represents banks in large-scale investigations.Practice head(s):
Andrea Monks
Other key lawyers:
Martin Davies; Nell Perks; Oliver Middleton; Alex Cox; Robin Spedding
Testimonials
‘A lean team which punches above it weight – very capable litigators.’
‘Andrea Monks offers real strategic insight into litigation. Robin Spedding is one to watch.’
‘Nell Perks has already made her mark in leading teams on big ticket cases coming to trial in 2024 and 2025. Already on the way to being one of the star litigators on the banking litigation scene.’
Key clients
Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME)
Saudi National Bank (Samba Financial Group)
ABN AMRO Bank N.V.
Work highlights
- Representing Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) in Commercial Court proceedings by TP ICAP alleging breaches of warranties following the sale of ICAP’s voice broking business to Tullett Prebon in 2018.
- Representing Saudi National Bank in a long-running case arising from the multi-billion dollar dispute between the Al-Gosaibi family, Maan Al Sanea and the Saad Group of companies.
- Representing a major investment bank in both the High Court and Competition Appeals Tribunal in relation to alleged FX manipulation.
Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 2
'With great knowledge of international arbitration law', Latham & Watkins' London practice consistently acts for states, governments, oil majors and financial institutions in heavyweight, business-critical claims. The group is particularly well known for oil and gas industry disputes involving joint ventures, post-M&A conflicts, and complex oil and gas installations. It additionally represents investors and respondent states in investment arbitrations. Philip Clifford KC has 'deep knowledge of the law and international arbitration practice'; and Sophie Lamb KC assists corporate, financial and sovereign entities with complex international disputes. Also integral to the team, Charles Claypoole is an investment treaty arbitration specialist; Oliver Browne's practice incorporates arbitration-related litigation; and Robert Price focuses on commercial and investment treaty arbitration. Samuel Pape was raised to partner in November 2022, while Charles Rae, Isuru Devendra, Stephanie Forrest and Rebecca Angelini are active associates. Former partner Sebastian Seelmann-Eggebert joined international dispute resolution boutique HANEFELD in April 2023.Practice head(s):
Philip Clifford KC; Sophie Lamb KC
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Ability to understand complex issues and pragmatically address them.’
‘Down to earth and approachable. Their expertise is conveyed in a way that is both understandable and keeps clients at ease.’
‘The team in London has great strength at partner level, combined with excellent and highly-skilled associates. They have experience in a broad range of industry sectors.’
‘Philip Clifford KC is an arbitration practitioner of long standing. He has deep knowledge of the law and international arbitration practice.’
‘Philip Clifford KC is an excellent advocate and tactician.’
‘They are an innovative, reputable and competitive team of collaborative lawyers, with great knowledge of international arbitration law.’
‘Samuel Pape is knowledgeable and hardworking.’
Key clients
Strabag
The Republic of Colombia
The Republic of Ukraine
Ipek Investment
The Republic of Croatia
Mason Capital
Pharmaniaga Berhad
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
ArcelorMittal
Dispute resolution > Public international law Tier 2
'Without doubt one of the top firms for PIL work', Latham & Watkins houses specialists in international boundary law disputes, investment treaty law, and international trade (including WTO law). Other areas of expertise include international trade sanctions, sovereign immunity, and international humanitarian law. The London office also has a strong market reputation for investment arbitrations. PIL team leader Charles Claypoole 'lives and breathes public international law'; Sophie Lamb KC regularly acts in investment treaty disputes; Robert Price's wide-ranging practice incorporates international trade issues, in addition to investment treaty arbitrations; and Samuel Pape represents companies and sovereigns in high-value disputes. At associate level, Thomas Lane advises on international trade sanctions and export controls, while Isuru Devendra acts in investor-state matters. Former partner Sebastian Seelmann-Eggebert joined international dispute resolution boutique HANEFELD in April 2023.Practice head(s):
Charles Claypoole
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Without doubt one of the top firms for PIL work, with depth of expertise and breadth of litigation experience.’
‘Charles Claypoole lives and breathes public international law.’
‘An innovative, reputable and competitive team of collaborative lawyers, with great knowledge of international arbitration law.’
‘Wins big and very complex cases.‘
‘Professionalism of management and great communication with the client.‘
‘Great personal qualities of the partners – calm, always know what to do, always remember important details, and easily available in case of emergencies.‘
‘Charles Claypoole is outstanding’.
‘Latham & Watkins has very good experience in handling investment treaty cases. ’
Key clients
Strabag SE
The Republic of Ukraine
IPEK
Mason Capital
The Republic of Colombia
The Republic of Croatia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Total
ArcelorMittal
Finance > Debt capital markets Tier 2
In London, Latham & Watkins provides a powerful combination of US law expertise and deep experience in emerging markets debt, sovereign issuance, liability management and debt restructuring, sustainable finance, and private placements. The firm has 'great knowledge and experience across the board' and clients note that 'the general level of the partners and associates is top-level'. Practice head David Stewart focuses predominantly on debt offerings by businesses and industries operating in the emerging markets including CEE, MENA and Sub-Saharan Africa. He has extensive experience in US securities law and disclosure matters. Stewart and Vladimir Mikhailovsky, who has extensive knowledge of international regulatory regimes, assisted JP Morgan Chase as lead managers with the combined issuance of $485.5m by JSC Silknet, the telecommunications operator in Georgia. Up-and-coming partner Manoj Tulsiani and the 'exceptional' Jennifer Engelhardt led a team that assisted Swedish private equity firm EQT Partners with the issuance of a total of €1.5bn in sustainability-linked notes as part of the financing for its merger with Baring Private Equity Asia.Practice head(s):
David Stewart
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great knowledge and experience across the board. Arguably the industry leader for this sort of work.’
‘Jennifer Engelhardt is exceptional – the general level of the partners and associates is top level.’
Key clients
BNP Paribas
Citigroup
Deutsche Bank
DTEK Renewables
Goldman Sachs
HSBC
ING
J.P. Morgan
MUFG
EQT Partners
Realty Income
Public Investment Fund (PIF)
Samruk-Kazyna
Finance > Securitisation Tier 2
Latham & Watkins has a broad-ranging structured finance practice that encompasses the full range of securitisation transactions and which is seen as taking an increasingly prominent role at the top end of the market. Sanjev Warna-Kula-Suriya, who leads the global structured finance and securitisation practice, is a key adviser to private equity sponsors, hedge funds, commercial and investment banks, and corporates on a broad range of innovative capital raising and investment transactions, including CMBS deals and CLOs. Jeremiah Wagner is widely recognised as one of the market's leading practitioners, and he represents sponsors, originators, issuers, lenders, underwriters, and arrangers in deals backed by residential mortgage loans, commercial mortgage loans, credit card receivables, small and big ticket equipment leases, auto loans and leases, dealer floorplan loans, insurance products, and more. He recently worked with Thomas Cochran to assist Barclays Bank as arranger of an innovative £794m deal backed by Supplier of Last Resort receivables originated by EDF and Octopus Energy. Stephen Curtis specialises in structured debt and securitisation financings across all major asset classes, including infrastructure, regulated utilities, commercial real estate, and operating assets. Alex Martin's recent work includes a €337m in CLO issuance by Carlyle, which included new ESG-screening features.Practice head(s):
Sanjev Warna-kula-suriya
Other key lawyers:
Projects, energy and natural resources > Infrastructure: Project finance and development Tier 2
Latham & Watkins provides 'experience across all sub sectors, with great industry knowledge', boasting an ability to be at 'the cutting edge of financing technology'. Trusted by some of the industry's largest players, the firm has a clear command of the entire financing and development piece for major projects, including advising Saudi Aramco on its carbon capture infrastructure in the Middle East, as well as counselling international executive bodies on a variety of energy builds - such as green hydrogen and ammonia. Industry veteran Conrad Andersen heads the practice and, although his practice is largely concentrated on debt and acquisition financing, is able to lend expert counsel across the full gamut of financing issues. Tom Bartlett is a go-to for energy developments, with a strong focus on North Africa and the Middle East, while Clement N Fondufe oversees the financings of a number of large-scale projects across Africa. JP Sweny and David J. Ziyambi also come recommended for their project finance and project development proficiency.Practice head(s):
Conrad Andersen
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Market leading finance team experienced across all sub sectors, with great industry knowledge. At the cutting edge of financing technology.’
Key clients
3i Infrastructure
Allianz Global Investors
APGDigital
Bridge Group
IFM Investors
ING Bank N.V. London Branch
Antin Infrastructure Partners
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan
DWS
Schroders Capital
Suez
Swiss Life
FSI / Igneo
Gresham House Energy Storage Fund
IFM Investors
National Australia Bank
Ontario Teachers
KKR
Global Infrastructure Partners
EIG
TotalEnergies
Energy Capital Partners
Triton
Saudi Aramco
Ara Partners
Helios Investment Partners
Vivo Energy Limited
Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)
Work highlights
Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity Tier 2
Latham & Watkins has an active privacy and cyber practice that runs the gamut of contentious and non-contentious data work, including compliance, regulatory, litigation, and transactional matters. The team leverages the firm’s international network and cross-departmental tech expertise to provide a full-service data protection and cybersecurity offering, acting for a range of companies, including start-ups and global technology corporations. Practice head Gail Crawford is recommended for her expertise in global data privacy compliance issues, while Ian Felstead takes point on data-related litigation and regulatory disputes, both in the UK and globally. Other key names include Fiona Maclean and James Lloyd, whose practices focus on regulatory investigations and enforcement. The team is supported by a strong group of associates and counsel, including counsel Danielle van der Merwe, senior associate Calum Docherty, and associate Hayley Pizzey.Practice head(s):
Gail Crawford
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘LW is a dedicated team, an outcome-focused one. Once the objectives are set, they deliver.’
‘I specifically enjoyed the appetite for achievement, detail-oriented and elegant exchanges we had. As a 20 years data protection SME and a lawyer, my expectations were high, and LW knew how to meet those.’
‘The team were extremely knowledgeable and pragmatic in our work with them.’
‘We worked with Danielle van der Merwe and Calum Docherty in connection with a data protection matter which was time sensitive – both very supportive in getting the matter across the line.’
‘Ian Feltstead: good data protection litigation insights and very responsive with a great number two in Hayley Pizzey. Gail Crawford and Fiona McClean are also good all rounders when it comes to data protection work.’
‘The UK privacy team is very professional and at the same time attentive to business constraints and open to creative solutions.’
‘Danielle is very professional, understands the business and provides practical advice. She is always available when needed.’
Key clients
Meta Platforms, Inc.
SAP SE
Farfetch
Fandom
GB Group plc
Intuit, Inc.
Mimecast
Credit Suisse
DAZN
Anzo Group
Work highlights
- Advising Meta, as lead counsel in relation to a number of highly complex and multijurisdictional regulatory investigations and inquiries regarding alleged data breaches and compliance with data protection laws, and related litigation, globally.
- Advised entertainment hosting service, Fandom, on data privacy and intellectual property matters in connection with the sale of D&D Beyond to Hasbro.
- Advised global investment bank, Credit Suisse, on the commercial agreements and data protection implications in connection with a number of strategic transactions, including the sale of its global trust business to independent offshore bank and trust company, Butterfield.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Film & TV Tier 2
Renowned practitioner Lisbeth Savill is co-chair of Latham & Watkins' entertainment, sports and media industry group, which handles an array of work in the film and television space, encompassing major commercial and corporate transactions, disputes and IP issues. Savill and the team are a regular port of call for producers and distributors (including major studios), broadcasters, platforms and digital-first companies, financiers and investment funds. Other recommended individuals include Patrick Mitchell, an expert on sponsorship and media rights arrangements, and counsel Rachael Astin, a go-to in transactional and regulatory matters with a focus on digital media and content distribution.Practice head(s):
Lisbeth Savill
Other key lawyers:
Ian Felstead; Patrick Mitchell; Farah O’Brian; Mike Turner; Rachael Astin
Testimonials
‘It is always fantastic to work with Rachael Astin – she’s a fantastic commercial lawyer with excellent knowledge of the tech/media space. ‘
‘Libby Savill has deep sector experience.’
‘Patrick Mitchell is extremely accessible and knowledgeable. He understands our needs and how to provide effective client services.’
Key clients
Anonymous Content
Centricus
Saudi Research and Media Group
Crossroads Live, Inc.
DAZN
Eon Productions
KKR
Moonbug Entertainment Limited
Pinewood Studios
Studiocanal
TeamViewer
Univision
Warner Bros
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Media finance Tier 2
Lisbeth Savill heads up Latham & Watkins entertainment, sports and media team and is an expert in media finance; her work in this space includes the creation and financing of audio-visual content, licensing and other exploitation arrangements, funds and co-financing arrangements, as well as commercial advice on the financing of entertainment and media companies. Patrick Mitchell is a regular fixture on premium commercial transactions, while Farah O’Brien specialises in cross-border private M&A deals. Clients include film and television producers and distributors (including major studios), broadcasters, platforms and digital-first companies, financiers (debt and equity) and investment funds.Practice head(s):
Lisbeth Savill
Other key lawyers:
Ian Felstead; Patrick Mitchell; Farah O’Brien; Sam Newhouse; Mike Turner; Rachael Astin; Stewart Robinson; Alastair Mackichan
Testimonials
‘On the various matters Sam Newhouse and Patrick Mitchell have undertaken for us, the work completed has been excellent.’
‘Sam Newhouse is excellent across the board.’
‘George Venables punches so far above his weight – it is beyond impressive.’
‘Excellent knowledge of the international sports and media space.’
‘Well connected team with relationships across markets and sponsors. Extremely responsive, pragmatic and helpful.’
‘Stewart Robinson is a standout associate.’
Key clients
Anonymous Content
Centricus
Saudi Research and Media Group
Crossroads Live, Inc.
DAZN
Eon Productions
KKR
Moonbug Entertainment Limited
Pinewood Studios
Studiocanal
TeamViewer
Univision
Warner Bros
Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 3
Latham & Watkins advises premier multinational clients on the full range of corporate tax matters, and is noted for its strength in working across jurisdictions. The department is jointly led by M&A and private equity expert Sean Finn, structured finance and real estate specialist Karl Mah, and Helen Lethaby, who is highly experienced in advising on transactional matters for corporates, financial investors and asset managers. Counsel James Leslie is a key contact for equity capital markets transactions.Practice head(s):
Sean Finn; Karl Mah; Helen Lethaby
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Good exposure to the market and understanding of economic deal to tax matters.’
‘Sean Finn provides calm and measured advice.’
‘A solid, likeable team. They have a good command of the technical tax issues, and an understanding of the commercial parameters within which they work.’
‘You get the sense that Karl Mah, as a former junior chess champion, is thinking six moves ahead, unlike the competition, who don’t approach matters so tactically.’
‘Karl Mah is outstanding and helped us a lot in closing some critical issues in a very short timeline.’
‘Karl Mah leads a very strong corporate tax practice, which is critical for large sized M&A.’
Key clients
EIG Global Energy Partners
Clearlake Capital
Adani Enterprises Limited
AllianceBernstein
Farfetch
Farallon Capital Europe LLP
Energy Capital Partners
Global Infrastructure Management
Yildirim Holding A.S.
Rivulis
Astorg and Epiris
Authentic Brands Group
PAI Partners and BCI
Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 3
Leveraging its extensive global network, the competition team at Latham & Watkins earns high praise from clients for its ‘proactive approach’. Boasting a formidable team of partners and associates, the practice is adeptly positioned to assist on both contentious and non-contentious matters. In recent months, the team has advised on a host of big-ticket multi-jurisdictional mergers and has showcased its expertise before the European Commission and CMA on a series of in-depth Phase II investigations. The team is jointly steered by Jonathan Parker and David Little; Parker has an impressive track record working on high-profile and complex matters, and Little is lauded for his ‘enormous depth of regulatory experience’. The firm’s competition offering has been bolstered by the hire of merger control expert Simon Pritchard, who joined from Linklaters LLP.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Parker; David Little
Other key lawyers:
Simon Pritchard; Greg Bonné; Ludmilla Le Grand; Alexandra Luchian; Mark Wagh
Testimonials
‘The team has particular expertise in UK and EU mergers, with partners having experience with the CMA.’
‘Greg Bonne is a standout new partner, he is bound for a stellar career and already has loyal clients amongst the tech giants.’
‘David Little has an enormous depth of regulatory experience, both in the UK and EU merger control.’
‘Jonathan’s team work seamlessly together and the team has a very proactive approach.’
Key clients
Meta
GRAIL, Inc
Viasat
Saur
Fartech
Bosch Rexroth
Demant A/S
GCP Applied Technologies
CooperCompanies
NVIDIA Corporation
AMD
Microsoft
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM)
American Airlines Group
KKR & Co. Inc
Work highlights
- Representing GRAIL in the EC’s review of its acquisition by Illumina, a landmark case concerning application of the referral powers under Article 22 of the EU Merger.
- Assisting Viasat Inc., a global communications company, in obtaining global antitrust and foreign investment approvals for its proposed US$7.3 billion acquisition of Inmarsat, a leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services.
- Representing Demant in obtaining antitrust clearance in the planned sale of its hearing implants business to Cochlear Limited, a producer of implantable hearing solutions, involving an in-depth Phase 2 investigation with the CMA and parallel review by the European Commission and ACCC in Australia.
Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious Tier 3
The broad practice at Latham & Watkins spans investigations, senior management responsibility, market abuse and financial crime. The firm’s global reach ensures that cross-border mandates are a regular part of the workload, with the firm leveraging its knowledge of regulators and law enforcement agencies in key financial centres to handle complex matters which cover multiple jurisdictions. Andrea Monks is the key name to note at leadership level. In team news, Nell Perks was promoted to partner in January 2023, while former practice co-head Jon Holland retired in March 2023.Practice head(s):
Andrea Monks
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
- Representing a major global investment bank in an investigation by the PRA regarding regulatory reporting failures.
- Training senior managers, including the CEO and independent non-executive board directors, on failures under the UK senior manager regulatory regime.
- Representing the board of an international bank in an independent investigation into various significant whistleblowing allegations made by an employee.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: premium Tier 3
Described by one client as a ‘top outfit for international commercial litigation’, Latham & Watkins is frequently handling ‘bet the company’ disputes regarding ownership and viability of several companies. The practice notably represents Meta in a number of complex, cross-jurisdictional investigations, related to data protection, competition, and consumer laws, showcasing the strength of the team in data privacy and cybersecurity issues. Head of the team Martin Davies is ‘not only one of the very best competition litigators in the market, but also one of the very nicest’. At associate level, ‘great to work with’ Hayley Pizzey is noted.Practice head(s):
Martin Davies
Other key lawyers:
Oliver Middleton; Helen Perks; Hayley Pizzey; Oliver Browne; Ian Felstead
Testimonials
‘A top outfit for international commercial litigation especially with conflicts of laws.’
‘Martin Davies has a rare balance of sharpness and legal knowledge on the one hand, and being easy to work with and fun on the other. Helen Perks is a great partner with good management of difficult clients.’
‘The team are rapidly gaining a major profile in major competition litigation in the UK.’
‘Martin Davies has the distinction of being not only one of the very best competition litigators in the market, but also of being one of the very nicest. He is super smart and an absolute delight to work with.’
‘Hayley Pizzey is an up-and-coming star, great to work with and bound for the top.’
‘The great strength of this team is their ability and willingness to draw on expertise from other departments of this very large firm. As a result it is pretty much a one stop shop for any kind of commercial dispute. However many aspects it may have, there will be someone there who can deal with it. The team are able to synergise all this help very well, which results in a comprehensive and yet cost efficient result for the client.’
‘Oliver Middleton is very good at the day to day conduct of litigation, tirelessly fighting for his client at every turn, but resourceful at calling in the knowledge of others when he needs it. I have seen him do this a lot, with great results.’
Key clients
Meta
New Look
Sinovac Biotech
Servis-Terimnal
Aerium Finance Limited
Societe Nationale de Raffinage, S.A.
Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME)
Renesas Electronics Corporation
Apollo Management International Ltd
Total Energies
Allergan
Work highlights
- Representing Aerium Finance Limited as one of over 30 defendants in a claim with more than £700m on offer, and an endless cast list containing prominent individuals, asset managers and international financial institutions, this large-scale claim will be one of the largest disputes ever heard in the Commercial Court.
- Representing Meta in relation to a number of highly complex and multijurisdictional regulatory investigations and inquiries regarding alleged data breaches and compliance with data protection laws generally, and any related litigation.
- Representing Renesas Group in its defence to a follow-on damages claim for £400m in connection with the European Commission’s Smart Card Chips cartel decision. This is a matter that recently made headlines for a rare successful limitation defence application.
Dispute resolution > Competition litigation Tier 3
The team at Latham & Watkins regularly appears before the CMA and the CAT, and represents clients in antitrust investigations and group actions. ‘Enthusiastic and experienced litigator‘ Martin Davies leads the team, having longstanding expertise in acting for private equity firms, high-net worth individuals, and portfolio companies in both collective and class actions, supported by Oliver Browne who has broad experience in handling follow-on damages claims. Promoted to partner in January 2023, Greg Bonné is noted for his knowledge of obtaining antitrust clearance in transactions, in addition to merger investigations. ‘Standout competition lawyer' Simon Pritchard joined the team from Linklaters LLP in March 2023, contributing his vast expertise in merger control matters within the life sciences, financial services, and entertainment sectors.Practice head(s):
Martin Davies
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Martin Davies and Nell Perks are super hardworking, very strong lawyers. Nell’s work ethic is something to behold! They are really easy to deal with and really sensible with fantastic judgment; they are realistic about the outcome of cases but combine this with a strong drive to get the client to where they want to be.’
‘Greg Bonné is knowledgeable, and has the benefit of past experience at the CMA.’
‘Martin is an enthusiastic and experienced litigator.’
‘Simon Pritchard is a standout competition lawyer, with a real feel for the priorities and concerns of regulators, and a deep understanding of legal and economic issues. He also has a gift for conveying difficult concepts in an easy and attractive manner. Simon is bound to be a huge asset for Latham.’
Key clients
Meta
GRAIL, Inc
Renesas
Work highlights
- Representing Meta in its acquisition of GIPHY and related UK litigation before the CAT and Court of Appeal.
- Representing GRAIL in the EC’s review of its acquisition by Illumina, a landmark case concerning application of the referral powers under Article 22 of the EU Merger Regulation.
- Representing Renesas Group in its defense against a follow-on damages claim for approximately €480m, in connection with the European Commission’s Smart Card Chips cartel decision.
Employment > Employee share schemes Tier 3
The ‘super smart’ team at Latham & Watkins is geared to advise on a broad range of employee share scheme and incentives matters on IPOs, acquisitions and public company takeovers. The firm also stands out for its US listing expertise and wide-ranging incentives work with emerging companies. Sarah Gadd leads the practice and is well placed to advise on executive renumeration mandates. Kendall Burnett has broad expertise in cross-border M&A.Practice head(s):
Sarah Gadd
Other key lawyers:
Kendall Burnett
Testimonials
‘Nothing is too much trouble for the Latham team – super smart and very efficient’
Key clients
Energy Capital Partners
Ares Management Limited
Agility Public Warehousing Co
SATS Ltd
PZ Cussons International Limited
Astorg Partners
Epiris
Venator Materials plc
Darktrace PLC
BenevolentAI
Eleusis Holdings Limited
SolGold plc
Bridgepoint Advisers Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Energy Capital Partners on share incentives, including in connection with its £1.3bn UK Takeover Code governed acquisition of Biffa.
- Advised Astorg and Epiris on share incentives in connection with the £1.6 billion UK Takeover Code governed acquisition of Euromoney Institutional Investor.
- Advised SATS on global incentive plans and implementation of new cashnand share based incentive plan in connection with its €1.2bn acquisition of Worldwide Flight Services.
Finance > Bank lending: investment grade debt and syndicated loans Tier 3
Finance heavyweight Latham & Watkins has the strength-in-depth to handle a tremendous volume and range of work for a fairly balanced lender and borrower client base. Outside of its core leveraged expertise, the team also regularly handles large corporate-led M&A financing mandates, with Jayanthi Sadanandan handling a series of sizeable deals involving publicly-listed companies. The vastly experienced Stephen Kensell also remains very active in the space and regularly advises banks providing the financing to facilitate investment grade M&A, IPO-related finance and for working capital facilities.Other key lawyers:
Stephen Kensell; Jayanthi Sadanandan
Work highlights
Finance > Derivatives and structured products Tier 3
Latham & Watkins climbs the ranking due its continuing role in complex and bespoke transactions, particularly in the strategic equity space. The firm also stands out for its work on credit derivatives in corporate debt restructurings and M&A transactions. It advises clients, among them some the world’s largest investment banks, on the full range of OTC and exchange-traded derivatives, and regulatory matters, as well as complex investigations and litigation matters involving derivatives. Jeremy Green, who handles corporate equity derivatives and structured equity financing, and Dean Naumowicz, who works on credit, equity, and commodity transactions, are the key practitioners. Naumowicz, who is ‘one of the best lawyers, spot on, technically excellent, able to exactly understand clients’ needs‘, acted for EIG, a leading institutional investor to the global energy and infrastructure sectors, on hedging and finance arrangements for its definitive agreement to acquire a 25% stake in Repsol Upstream, a newly-formed global exploration and production company.Practice head(s):
Jeremy Green; Dean Naumowicz
Testimonials
‘The team is very technical yet also commercially minded. If there is a deadline they will meet it – their response time far exceeds most other firms we work with. In relation to billing, they were willing to listen to our requirements and came up with a solution that works for both the firm and the client.’
‘Dean Naumowicz is an excellent professional in the derivatives and margin loan field, one of the best lawyers I’ve ever seen. Spot on, technically excellent, able to exactly understand client needs both in terms of analysis and structuring and, very importantly, a very good negotiator!’
‘A fantastic team, they have a long standing expertise in complex strategic equity transactions and they are committed to assist their clients no matter the time and day.’
‘Dean Naumowicz is a true trusted advisor, he ensures that every aspect of a transaction is managed timely and appropriately, he coordinates a wide variety of stakeholders and is exceptionally good at gaining the clients’ confidence.’
Insurance > Insurance: corporate and regulatory Tier 3
Latham & Watkins works on some of the most complex and high-profile deals in the insurance market, advising on M&A, private equity, capital raisings, and pension de-risking. The firm also has developing capabilities in a number of emerging sectors, including insurtech, pension superfunds, and insurance regulation. Victoria Sander leads the practice, specialising in insurance transactional mandates such as M&A, reinsurance, and distribution agreements. She draws upon the wider corporate transactional strengths of the team, working alongside Kem Ihenacho, Neil Campbell, Mike Turner, Shing Lo, and Beatrice Lo with their experience in cross-border M&A and private equity transactions.Practice head(s):
Victoria Sander
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They are a one stop shop for complex insurance matters, as they cover a spectrum of work, ranging from corporate transactions, insurance advisory to pensions de-risking and reinsurance. When we instruct Lathams, we know that the team supporting us would be the best in their field and dedicated to deliver us the best service.’
‘Victoria Sander is one of the best corporate insurance partners I work with. Her indepth knowledge of the insurance sector and ability to navigate complex issues is second to none. She is technically excellent and commercial. She is our go to lawyer for complex insurance matters as our trusted advisor, and has supported us through some of our most significant transactions.’
‘Top team in structured finance.’
Key clients
AXA
CVC
Domestic & General
Just Group
Lombard International Group
Madison Dearborn Partners
Prudential Assurance Company
Rothesay
Scor
Work highlights
- Advised CVC Capital Partners on the acquisition of 90.01% of Ethniki Insurance from the National Bank of Greece.
- Advised Lombard International Group on an Amendment Agreement between the company and the existing noteholder of U.S. $40,000,000.
Investment fund formation and management > Private funds Tier 3
Latham & Watkins is recommended for fund formation, JVs & strategic partnerships, secondaries and investor representation, acting for a host of high-profile international clients. The practice notably includes tech sector funds specialist James McCrory, and Nick Benson, who has experience across the buyout, venture, technology, infrastructure, and credit spaces. Counsel Clare Scott is also highly recommended, offering particular expertise in sovereign wealth funds and green and climate investment funds. Mateja Maher and Adrian Grocock joined the team from Sidley Austin LLP in July 2023.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Not only is the team is very proficient but they have a strong commercial sense and help a lot in negotiations and strategy. The team is well-connected across different geographies and we feel that we are dealing with one team; despite working with different teams across different continents.’
‘Very high quality of work and very efficient, we feel they are part of our team; not external counsel. Always available and never disappoint.’
Key clients
LaSalle
IFM Investors
Chimera Capital
VSQ Capital II
OMERS Infrastructure
OMERS Capital Markets
Azimut Alternative Capital Partners
Flashpoint Venture Capital
I Squared Capital
Work highlights
Real estate > Property finance Tier 3
Latham & Watkins‘ practice is led by Jeremy Trinder, who is an expert in commercial mortgage loan transactions, including the servicing and restructuring of mortgage debt. With a balanced equity and debt practice, Quentin Gwyer handles acquisitions, and sale and leaseback transactions across Europe, particularly on portfolio acquisitions and data centres, and acting for sponsors and lenders on the origination of loans. Counsel James Beeson concentrates on cross-border acquisition and development financings.Practice head(s):
Jeremy Trinder
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They provide outstanding advice on real estate finance topics, and have a strong multinational network of partners they can pull in. They also cover complex transactions such as loan on loans which is very helpful. They’re not the cheapest but you get top-quality legal advice and they’re also very commercial.’
‘Apart from the top-quality legal advice they are very good in negotiations, often defusing otherwise tense situations.’
Key clients
Blackstone Real Estate Advisors
Blackstone Mortgage Trust
TDR Capital
Asda
Cerberus Capital Management
Ares Management
KSL
Brookfield
Partners Group
Barclays
Work highlights
- Advised Goldman Sachs on its term loan, bridge, and revolving credit facilities in connection with Clayton, Dubilier & Rice Holdings’ £6.6 billion take private of WM Morrison Supermarkets Plc.
- Advising Blackstone Mortgage Trust, Inc on the acquisition and development financing in respect of seed assets comprising two warehouse facilities in England.
- Advised ASDA on the financing aspects of its acquisition of EG Group’s UK and Ireland operations for an enterprise value of c.£2.27bn.
Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates) Tier 3
Counting publicly listed companies, global investment firms, and foreign governments amongst its key clients, the ‘very pragmatic’ team at Latham & Watkins is highly regarded for its handling of multi-jurisdictional investigations involving broad corruption issues. The practice has developed strong relationships with domestic and international enforcement agencies, ranging from the SFO and FCA to the US DOJ, with co-head Nathan Seltzer regularly representing recognisable brands in the US and globally in high-stakes proceedings. Fellow co-head Stuart Alford KC, is an expert on financial crime and regulatory matters, whilst Clare Nida focuses on allegations of anti-bribery and corruption laws.Practice head(s):
Nathan Seltzer; Stuart Alford KC
Other key lawyers:
Clare Nida; Mair Williams
Testimonials
‘Clare Nida is a brilliant lawyer in this area.’
‘The Latham team is lithe and very responsive, with experts spanning the international gamut of compliance program risks. Latham has been an invaluable advisor and continues to be a voice of experience and key collaborator as we build out our team and scope.’
‘The Latham team has deep legal and compliance experience and the ability to scale their knowledge to our mission, which they leverage to guide us in right-sizing our program, which in turn helps wisely streamline our investment around key areas of risk. The entire team is fantastic, and Clare Nida has provided invaluable counsel and support, and assisted in coordinating additional resources as we need them.’
‘The team is very pragmatic with their advisory and doesn’t try and “boil the ocean”. They look for efficient ways to perform work and also do not suggest fruitless tasks.’
‘Everyone on the team is very intelligent and brings diverse experience to the table. Additionally, they have great personalities which make them enjoyable to work with and are the type of people you’d welcome dinner or drinks with.’
‘Stuart Alford KC, former SFO, is highly skilled in advising boards on SFO investigations, proceedings and settlement agreements.’
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport Tier 3
Steered by Patrick Mitchell - regarded as a ‘leading lawyer for international sport and media deals’ - Latham & Watkins regularly advises on sponsorship, media rights and commercial deals involving football clubs, social media companies, broadcasters, as well as a number of high-value sponsors. The team, which includes vice-chair of the global M&A practice Edward Barnett and corporate practitioners Sam Newhouse and Farah O’Brien, is also known for its work on investments and M&A deals in the industry, regularly working with internationally renowned football clubs and rugby teams. Counsel Rachael Astin is a key figure for competition hosting arrangements and media rights acquisitions. Stewart Robinson is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Patrick Mitchell
Other key lawyers:
Ed Barnett; Rachel Astin; Farah O’Brien; Stewart Robinson
Testimonials
‘Patrick Mitchell provides excellent commercial advice on all aspects of sports agreements and ancillary/connected matters. The level of expertise and internationally joined up nature of the offering is first-rate compared to other firms.’
‘Patrick Mitchell is a standout.’
‘Patrick Mitchell is a leading lawyer for international sports and media deals. Tremendous knowledge of European football and sports projects. Team leader and accessible.’
‘Patrick Mitchell is a go-to for complex sporting or media matters.’
Key clients
DAZN
International Olympic Committee
Todd Boehly
Eldridge
Clearlake
Chelsea Football Club
Endeavor
IMG
Red Bull Racing Formula 1 Team
TeamViewer
Meta Platforms
Dapper Labs
Formula E
World Surf League
Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix
Unagi
Ultimate Champions
Saudi Arabian Football Federation
Silver Lake Capital Partners
CVC Capital
MSD UK Holdings
Fortress Investment Group
888 Holdings
Goldman Sachs
HSBC
European Clubs Association
International Olympic Committee
Work highlights
- Acted as the lead legal counsel to the consortium led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital on its £4.25 billion acquisition of Chelsea Football Club.
- Advised Silver Lake on its investment into the New Zealand All Blacks and the Australian Professional Leagues (APL).
- Advised Red Bull Racing Formula One Team on various of its premium sponsorship deals.
Industry focus > Life sciences and healthcare Tier 4
Led by Robbie McLaren, the team at Latham & Watkins is noted for its ‘great sector knowledge‘ and strength in handling the full spectrum of corporate matters, including IPOs, licensing transactions, and financing issues. McLaren primarily handles cross-border M&A, in addition to venture and growth capital investments. Senior associate Oliver Mobasser primarily focuses on assisting biotech, medtech, and pharmaceutical companies with strategic transactions and divestments.Practice head(s):
Robbie McLaren
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great sector knowledge. Very responsive. Creative thinking and well resourced teams.’
Key clients
Abcam
Acino Pharma
Amgen
Astellas Pharma
Atai
Baxter
BenevolentAI
BC Partners
Collplant
CVC Capital Partners
Eleusis
Exscientia
GlaxoSmithKline
KKR
Ligand Pharmaceuticals
Meira GTx
Mereo BioPharma
Nordic Capital
Norgine
Novo Holdings
Oasmia
Osler Diagnostics
Permira
Pharmanovia
Pharmaseeds
Pharmathen
ProPharma Group
Silverlake Partners
Sobi
Soundbite
Synthon
Theramex
Zogenix
Investment fund formation and management > Fund finance Tier 4
The cross-departmental fund finance team at Latham & Watkins, described by one client as the ‘preeminent lender counsel,’ is well versed to advise on the structuring and drafting of NAV facilities and credit funds, capital call financings and hybrid facilities. The team is jointly headed by Jeremiah Wagner, who specialises in advising banks on NAV facilities and credit funds in the European market, offering ‘strong technical expertise,’ and ‘standout lawyer’ Alex Martin, who advises fund sponsors and credit funds on NAV-based facilities and asset-backed lending arrangements, from regulatory matters to the structuring of transactions. Noted by the market, ‘rigorous and clever’ senior associate Daniel Marcus is ‘responsive, has excellent experience and is always on top of his brief’, and is heavily involved in managing fund financing transactions involving banks and lending funds across various asset classes.Practice head(s):
Jeremiah Wagner; Alex Martin
Other key lawyers:
Daniel Marcus; Jana Zupikova
Testimonials
‘With regard to the deals on which we have worked together, it appears that the Structured Finance & Securitisation Practice of Latham is advising highly sophisticated finance institutions with their financing arrangements including notably asset-backed and hybrid facilities to fund structures. They have an in-depth knowledge of the market practice, know their client’s expectations and always make sure the interest of their clients come first. They also make sure to understand the evolution of the legal landscape of foreign jurisdictions appearing in their deals.’
‘I would mention Dan Marcus who is very rigorous and clever when it comes to tackling legal points in a transaction and moving forward to closing. As a lead counsel, he demonstrates both leadership and team spirit, always with the aim to achieve the best deal for the client.’
‘The team is very responsive and quick to come back with feedback. Jana Zupikova is a very hard working individual, is always ready to help get the deal across the line and can be commercial to work with. Jana can be trusted to act in the best interest of the client at all times’
‘The Latham & Watkins team are the preeminent lender counsel for direct lending fund financing facilities. The quality of their drafting and advice is top drawer and they have seen practically every nuance before and devised elegant solutions. Jeremiah Wagner is arguably the best lender counsel in the market for direct lending leverage facilities. His depth of experience and attention to detail is very impressive. He has strong technical expertise and the ability to provide wise counsel and practical solutions to all complicated issues. Dan Marcus is a very strong senior associate and must be knocking on the partner door soon. He is very responsive, has excellent experience and is always on top of his brief.’
‘This is a very high performing team with great commitment to their client and finding a win win solution. Alex Martin is a standout lawyer that is always caring for the best outcome for his clients.’
‘This is a market leading securitisation team involved in a vast majority of fund financing securitisations.’
‘The team has responsive, innovative and decisive individuals who are very comfortable to give a well thought out view. Namely Jeremiah Wagner and Dan Marcus stand out.’
Investment fund formation and management > Real estate funds Tier 4
Featuring both James McCrory and Nick Benson, the funds team at Latham & Watkins advises high-profile clients on fund formations, joint ventures and strategic partnerships, acting for investors in relation to their investments into private funds. Counsel Clare Scott is a key name to note for global fundraising, capital deployment, operational matters and secondary transactions.Other key lawyers:
Key clients
LaSalle
IFM Investors
Chimera Capital
VSQ Capital II
OMERS Infrastructure
OMERS Capital Markets
Azimut Alternative Capital Partners
Flashpoint Venture Capital
I Squared Capital
Flashpoint Venture Capital
Work highlights
Germany > Information technology > Data protection
Latham & Watkins LLP‘s data protection practice covers transactions, strategic advice (especially digital economy matters) and data privacy litigation. The team recently demonstrated its strength in major disputes, including in proceedings before the data protection authorities, in fines and civil proceedings related to possible data breaches, as well as damage compensation. European data protection law expert Ulrich Wuermeling regularly advises technology companies as well as organisations from the direct marketing, healthcare and financial services sectors. The practice is led by renowned Tim Wybitul, who is among the leading figures in German data protection law; he took the lead in the successful defence against the highest German GDPR fine to date before the ECJ.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent professional competence and pragmatic solutions.’
‘High know-how; clear guidance; willingness to discuss; clear expectation management.’
‘Absolute know-how; good interaction between the various specialist departments within the law firm; sufficient capacity for timely completion; already the first drafts with a good outcome; absolute reliability in appointments/coordinations.’
‘Tim Wybitul is excellent at putting his excellent specialist knowledge into practice and can present complex topics in a way that is absolutely understandable and concise even for non-experts, speaks a language that is understandable for all levels, is extremely well networked and always up to date.’
‘Wolf Tassilo Böhm has excellent and broad expertise and always has the right solution ready.’
‘Dr. Isabelle Brahms can present complex issues in an absolutely understandable way and has a wide range of specialist knowledge.’
Key clients
IQVIA Commercial GmbH & Co. OHG
Meta
Panasonic
Daimler AG
SCHUFA Holding AG
MediaMarkt Saturn Retail Group
Deutsche Wohnen
Work highlights
- Successful representation of Daimler as a defendant in proceedings before the Federal Labor Court (BAG) regarding the right of employees to information and data copies.
- Defense of Deutsche Wohnen before the ECJ in connection with various issues regarding the highest GDPR fine to date in Germany. This is the first procedure on the current German GDPR fine practice before the ECJ.
- Advising Meta in relation to a series of multi-jurisdictional governmental inquiries and investigations into alleged data breaches and compliance with data protection laws generally, and related litigation.
United States > Finance > Restructuring (including bankruptcy): corporate
Latham & Watkins LLP’s broad and multidisciplinary restructuring and special situations practice has a well-established reputation for its senior secured lending expertise as well as significant debtor- and creditor-side experience. With extensive experience representing creditor groups and investors in relation to in- and out-of-court restructurings, George Davis in New York is global chair of the group, with vice chair Jeff Bjork based in Los Angeles. The practice has been involved in several recent high-profile mass tort bankruptcies, with Davis having led teams representing major biopharmaceutical company Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals in connection with its Chapter 11 bankruptcy involving several billion dollars of asserted tort, regulatory, and antitrust liabilities, a case which also saw a key role for New York-based Anupama Yerramalli. Notably, Keith Simon in New York has recently led a team representing Citi, as agent and subrogated lender, in connection with the chapter 11 reorganization of cosmetics company Revlon, and specifically its $500 million mistaken payment. Caroline Reckler in Chicago also stands out for her bankruptcy litigation work.Practice head(s):
George Davis; Jeff Bjork; Bruce Bell
Other key lawyers:
Adam Goldberg; Amy Quartarolo; Anupama Yerramalli; Caroline Reckler; Helena Tseregounis; Jason Gott; Kimberly Posin; Keith Simon
Testimonials
‘The team is laser focused on a successful strategic conclusion of the matter at hand and has a remarkably deep understanding of the opposing talent and tactics. The team works together very well. It’s overall approach and its dealing with the opposition is anchored in achieving a successful commercial outcome.’
‘Latham has one of the industry-leading groups, along with Paul Weiss, Kirkland, and Weil. The group is very experienced, frequently appears in large, complex matters, and is very well-regarded in the field. Its debtor-side work is particularly well thought of, although the firm also does significant creditor-side engagements as well.’
‘Jeff Bjork has assembled a highly competent team. On an individual basis, unlike some, he approaches difficult litigation matters with the strategic view that commercial agreements among the parties ultimately drives successful outcomes; and not specific steps in the bankruptcy process which are less important.’
‘George Davis, the group head, is exceptionally able and experienced. He is a superb team leader who has led many of Latham’s largest and most complex engagements. He brings years of experience, good judgment, and a very high profile within his field. Jeff Bjork, the deputy group head, is likewise very highly regarded. Like George Davis, he has led many of the group’s largest and most complex engagements. Caroline Reckler is a outstanding mid-level partner who has gained increasing recognition and stature from her leadership roles in a number of Latham’s most prominent matters.’
‘Kim Posin is a very talented and knowledgeable Partner. Posin is a tough negotiator but is grounded in reaching commercial agreement. Always responsive.’
‘The quality starts at the top. George Davis is practical, reasonable, persistent, insightful and an excellent leader. He is tough without coming across as aggressive. He has access to top-notch litigation department help and excellent young partners, among whom Anupama Yerramalli and Jason Gott stand out for me. The firm handles many matters at once but everything seems to have appropriate levels of partner involvement.’
‘The team was excellent and cohesive. Jeff Bjork and Adam Goldberg provided excellent leadership. They knew the other players, outlined an aggressive but workable strategy, and executed it with the team with great skill.’
‘Jeff Bjork and Adam Goldberg with the principal partners. They are bright, personable, knowledgeable, creative, connected, and responsive.’
Key clients
Ad Hoc Committee of GTT Noteholders
Axalta Performance Coatings
Citibank, N.A.
Credit Suisse
DBI Intermediate Holdco LLC
Electric Last Mile Solutions, Inc.
GE Corporate Financial Services
Huachen Energy Co.
Huron Consulting Group
Imerys Talc America, Inc.
Lloyds Bank plc (“Lloyds”)
Lucky Brand Dungarees
Lumileds Holding B.V.
Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals
Oaktree Capital
Orion Energy Partners
Paddock Enterprises (formerly Owens-Illinois Inc.)
Pemberton Strategic Credit
Pembina Pipeline Corporation
Philadelphia Academic Health Holdings, LLC
Searchlight Capital Partners
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Three Arrows Capital Ltd.
UBS Securities
Work highlights
- Advised Mallinckrodt in the company’s recently announced completion of its Chapter 11 proceedings in the Delaware Bankruptcy Court to resolve several billion dollars of asserted tort, regulatory, and antitrust liabilities, and thousands of opioid-related lawsuits.
- Advised Huachen Energy Co., Ltd on a bond restructuring and the first-ever US Chapter 15 recognition of a PRC bankruptcy reorganization plan.
- Advising Citi, as agent and subrogated lender, with respect to the Chapter 11 proceedings of Revlon, Inc.
India > Foreign firms
With notable expertise in handling transactions covered by US and English law, the India practice at Latham & Watkins LLP acts for local, regional, and international clients on the full range of high-value capital markets, M&A, private equity, and finance matters. Leveraged financing transactions are a key focus for the team, as are public offerings and foreign investments. Rajiv Gupta heads the team from Singapore and is a seasoned commercial transactions, spin-offs, and joint ventures expert. Another key name on the corporate side is Sidharth Bhasin, also in Singapore, as well as London-based Sam Newhouse, global vice chair of the firm’s M&A practice.Practice head(s):
Rajiv Gupta
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
The Adani Group
Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board
Adani Enterprises Limited
WNS Global Services (UK) Limited
Searchlight Capital Partners
Sutherland Global Services UK Ltd
CVC Capital Partners
Delhivery
Citigroup
Merrill Lynch (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
Morgan Stanley
Oravel Stays Limited (dba OYO)
API Holdings
Adani Green
Blackstone
Baring Private Equity Asia
Hyundai Motor India
SparkCognition, Inc.
Rivulis Pte Ltd
TotalEnergies
Acuity Knowledge Partners
Latin America: International firms > International arbitration
Latham & Watkins LLP continues to impress the market with its notable experience in representing both Latin American states and private parties in investment treaty arbitrations; this includes a series of cases for the Republic of Colombia involving ICSID arbitrations brought by claimants relating to legislative, administrative and judicial measures introduced by the government – particularly as regards environmental and community matters. The firm is also noted for commercial arbitrations and enforcement proceedings with Paris-based global co-chair of the international arbitration practice, Fernando Mantilla-Serrano, who ‘stands out for his quick grasp of the essence of the matters’ and has long been a senior name in the region, leading on the vast majority of the firm’s Latin America cases. The hire of John V H Pierce as global co-head of the arbitration practice -from WilmerHale– in mid-2022, gives the practice considerable additional heft; and while not solely focused on the region, he does handle Latin America-related mandates. Pierce is based in New York, as is dual qualified (Colombia/New York) counsel Santiago Bejarano (‘always up-to-speed on the advice and willing to answer questions’) who is a key team member on many of the practice’s Latin America arbitration engagements; as is London-based Samuel Pape, who was elected to the partnership in January 2023. Paris associates Esperanza Barrón-Baratech (a Spanish national), Hugo Varenne and Diego Romero (who is qualified in Colombia, New York and Paris) are also key members of the team. Eugenie Caroit moved to Campos Mello Advogados in cooperation with DLA Piper as Of Counsel in mid-2023.Practice head(s):
Fernando Mantilla-Serrano
Testimonials
‘The Latham & Watkins arbitration group is characterised by its thoroughness and organisation. In-house counsel should know that this is a highly compliant task force that normally gives task teams reasonable time to make reviews. These qualities have been consistently manifested in over five arbitrations in which we have had the opportunity to work with LW.’
‘They have a large and exceptionally committed work team. The wealth of human and logistical resources available to the firm, favours excellence in the production of results.’
‘The experience of the partner who leads, is very important for the company as well as his knowledge of the sector and the market (knowledge of the sector in several Latin American countries was required).’
‘Fernando Mantilla-Serrano’s experience is exceptional and the knowledge of the precedents that are related to the case study. The service is very good and fast, they meet the established times and are always available to the client. The relationship with Santiago Bejarano was very close, always up-to-speed on the advice and willing to answer questions.’
‘Excellent team where also young people get a good chance to gain experience and are involved (for example at hearings) at an early stage.’
‘Fernando Mantilla-Serrano stands out for his quick grasp of the essence of the matters, and his attention to detail.’
‘L&W has a very competent arbitration team. They are very good lawyers with a lot of attention to detail.’
Key clients
Republic of Colombia
Norman Sorensen, Matthew Turner and Joseph Zappala (Independent Board Members of CODERE)
Dominican Republic
Novenergia II Energy & Environment, (SCA), SICAR
Grupo PRISA; Cadena SER
Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ)
WWM Logistics
The GICOM Consortium formed by GE; Andritz, Voith, Siemens
Live Nation
Work highlights
- Represented the Republic of Colombia in ICSID arbitration brought by Eco Oro Minerals relating to certain legislative, administrative and judicial measures introduced by Colombia to protect environmentally sensitive páramo ecosystems.
- Represented the Republic of Colombia in ICSID arbitration brought by Aris Mining Corp, relating to Colombia’s alleged failure to evict members of the local communities engaged in artisanal and small-scale mining activities from certain gold mining titles.
- Representing the Dominican Republic in ICSID Additional Facility Rules arbitration relating to alleged violations of an investment agreement entered into by parties for the reprocessing of the gold and silver refractory tailings dam of the Puerto Viejo (open-pit) mine.
Latham & Watkins > Firm Profile
Latham & Watkins is a leading international law firm with renowned practices across a wide spectrum of transactional, litigation, corporate and regulatory areas.
The firm: Latham boasts an award-winning London office recognised for its handling of complex cross-border matters for corporates, investment banks, private equity houses and governments in the UK and throughout the world.
Types of work undertaken
Banking and leveraged finance: Latham has a leading finance practice known in the market for its unique ability to be able to transition seamlessly between all forms of senior and subordinated loan, bond, ‘bank and bond’ and hybrid capital structures. The group regularly advises arrangers, lenders, sponsors and/or other borrowers on all types of leveraged and acquisition finance whether the governing law is English, New York, French, German, Italian, Russian or Spanish.
Capital markets: Latham is one of the world’s most active capital markets firms, with vast experience representing underwriters and issuers in debt and equity financing transactions, and is recognised as a market leader in high-yield debt work. Latham’s lawyers handle rights offerings, IPOs, eurobond financings, senior note offerings, high-yield, senior secured debt, and other global equity and debt-related issues.
Derivatives: Latham’s practice is both transactional and advisory. The group acts for both financial institutions and non-financial corporate clients with respect to the full range of over-the-counter (OTC) and exchange-traded derivative products.
Dispute resolution: the London practice boasts market-leading experts who specialise in complex cross-border litigation, arbitration, public international law, intellectual property and white-collar disputes.
EU and competition: Latham’s premier competition law team operates at both EU and member state levels. In London, Latham has an extensive merger control and antitrust investigations and counselling practice. Latham is one of the few firms with a market-leading criminal cartel defence and civil antitrust litigation experience.
M&A and private equity: a market-leading practice that specialises in advising leading corporates, private equity sponsors, funds and investment banks on complex cross-border transactions.
Project finance: consistently ranked among the world’s top global projects firms, Latham’s lawyers have represented sponsors, lenders (including ECAs, IFIs, conventional and Islamic debt providers) and governments in more than 1,000 projects over the last 20 years.
Restructuring and insolvency: the top-ranking practice represents debtors and creditors on workouts, restructurings and insolvencies. Latham is one of the few firms to combine leading finance capabilities with a knowledge of the high-yield bond and private placement markets, with comprehensive cross-border restructuring expertise.
Structured finance: a diverse practice representing financial institutions and issuers on complex and ground-breaking structured finance transactions across a wide spectrum of asset types, with specialist advice on Basel II and the new Basel III framework.
Tax: Latham offers integrated, multi-jurisdictional tax capabilities, developing practical solutions to complex international tax problems, including advising on cross-border M&A, private equity and securities offerings, planning for multinationals and international tax controversies.
Technology and outsourcing: recognised for the strength of its legal and commercial expertise in expert IT outsourcings, the team counsels leading clients in relation to the acquisition, development, protection, exploitation, licensing and sale of technology.
Environmental: the practice provides advice to clients on the environmental aspects of corporate transactions, contaminated land and regulatory issues, product-related issues, environmental risk and climate change.
Investment funds: the practice advises sponsors and investors on the structuring, marketing and operation of investment funds across a variety of strategies (including buyout, growth, credit, infrastructure and real estate) and jurisdictions.
Other offices: Abu Dhabi, Barcelona, Beijing, Boston, Brussels, Century City, Chicago, Doha, Dubai, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hong Kong, Houston, Los Angeles, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, Munich, New York, Orange County, Paris, Riyadh, Rome, San Diego, San Francisco, Shanghai, Silicon Valley, Singapore, Tokyo, Washington DC
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing partner | Stephen Kensell | ||
Banking and leveraged finance | Tania Bedi | ||
Banking and leveraged finance | Dan Maze | ||
Capital markets | James Inness and Chris Horton | ||
Derivatives | Dean Naumowicz | ||
Dispute resolution | Martin Davies | ||
Employment and benefits | Catherine Drinnan | ||
EU and competition | Jonathan Parker | ||
High yield | Brett Cassidy | ||
International arbitration | Philip Clifford KC and Sophie Lamb KC | ||
IT and outsourcing | Andrew Moyle | ||
Litigation | Oliver Browne | ||
Mergers and acquisitions | Mike Bond | ||
Private equity | David Walker | ||
Public international law | Charles Claypoole | ||
Real estate | Jeremy Trinder | ||
Restructuring and insolvency | Bruce Bell | ||
Scandinavia practice | Sam Hamilton | ||
Securitisation and structured finance | Sanjev Warna-kula-suriya | ||
Tax | Sean Finn | ||
Venture capital and investment funds | Nick Benson |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Mr Conrad Andersen | Conrad Andersen is an infrastructure partner in the London office of Latham… | View Profile | |
Rachael Astin | Counsel | View Profile | |
James Burnett | James Burnett is a partner in the London office of Latham &… | View Profile | |
John Colahan | John Colahan is a partner in Latham & Watkins’ London office. Prior… | View Profile | |
Gail Crawford | Partner | View Profile | |
Ms Rebecca Crowley | Rebecca C. Crowley is a member of the Finance Department who focuses… | View Profile | |
Stuart Davis | Partner | View Profile | |
Thomas Forschbach | Thomas Forschbach is a partner in Latham & Watkins’ London and Paris… | View Profile | |
Jeffrey Lawlis | Jeff Lawlis, Global Vice Chair of Latham & Watkins’ Capital Markets Practice,… | View Profile | |
Fiona Maclean | Partner | View Profile | |
Andrew Moyle | Partner | View Profile | |
Lisbeth Savill | Partner | View Profile | |
Ms Seonaid Todisco | Seonaid Todisco is a partner in the Finance Department of the London… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK fee-earners : 250Student (Future Lawyers )
The Legal 500 Future Lawyers Verdict
Latham & Watkins ‘was the only firm to meet all my criteria, such that I wouldn’t have to make any sacrifices regarding calibre of work, prestige, culture or quality of training’. Recruits were drawn to the firm’s full-service nature, an offering which is ‘not a given for US firms in London’. Indeed, when deciding where to apply, trainees had been bowled over by Latham’s ‘position in the market across so many different practice areas’, which means that they ‘do not feel like we are competing for the crown jewel department of the firm’. An impressive client pool comprising ‘some genuinely very well-known organisations, plus some lesser-known, but very interesting, businesses’ is the cherry on the cake. Latham has been awarded two Future Lawyers Winner medals for quality of work and international secondments. Despite several complaints that the trainee salary ‘has not risen in line with competitors’, the generous NQ salary received high praise. Colleagues are ‘awesome’, and it didn’t go unnoticed that ‘literally everyone I met during my vacation scheme was positive and seemed to enjoy their job’. The main gripe recruits have with Latham is the hours which, although ‘no different to any other US firm’, can be ‘long, and without foreseeability at trainee level’. Recruits do appreciate that ‘working at a top international law firm comes with the need to provide the best service for clients’ but are keen to point out that ‘this means Latham lawyers are sometimes needed to be available out of business hours in order to service client needs’. The smaller annual leave allowance (20 days instead of the usual 25) is also an annoyance. To train at a large US firm with a significant UK presence and a larger trainee cohort than most other US firms’, which boasts ‘very good transactional and disputes practices', consider Latham & Watkins.Legal Briefings
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Transacting with troubled companies: navigating stressed, distressed, and insolvent acquisitions
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought about significant challenges for many businesses, and a heightened risk of financial difficulty and insolvency. While the number of formal insolvencies has been relatively low thus far, troubled businesses may be forced to pursue accelerated asset disposals, or may themselves present an attractive investment opportunity for new equity stakeholders capable …
Comparative Guides
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United States: Lending & Secured Finance
Published: April 2023
Authors: Lisa Collier Nicole FanjulDan SealeAlf XuePreeta Paragash
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Lending & Secured Finance laws and regulations applicable in United States.
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United States: Acquisition Finance
Published: January 2024
Authors: Brandon AndersonPaul BonewitzDan SealeAlf Xue
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Acquisition Finance laws and regulations applicable in United States.
- Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets – mid-large cap
- Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions – high-value deals (£250m+)
- Finance > Acquisition finance
- Finance > Corporate restructuring & insolvency
- Finance > High yield
- Industry focus > TMT
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Infrastructure: M&A and acquisition financing
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Oil and gas
- Real estate > Environment
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory
- Corporate and commercial > M&A: Upper Mid-Market And Premium Deals, £750m+
- Corporate and commercial > Venture capital
- Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail
- Dispute resolution > International arbitration
- Dispute resolution > Public international law
- Finance > Debt capital markets
- Finance > Securitisation
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Infrastructure: Project finance and development
- Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Film & TV
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Media finance
Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax
- Corporate and commercial > EU and competition
- Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: premium
- Dispute resolution > Competition litigation
- Employment > Employee share schemes
- Finance > Bank lending: investment grade debt and syndicated loans
- Finance > Derivatives and structured products
- Insurance > Insurance: corporate and regulatory
- Investment fund formation and management > Private funds
- Real estate > Property finance
- Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates)
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport