Firm Profile > Allen & Overy LLP > London, England
Allen & Overy LLP Offices
ONE BISHOPS SQUARE
LONDON
E1 6AD
England
Allen & Overy LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Acquisition finance Tier 1
A 'class act', Allen & Overy LLP benefits from 'deep market insight' for financial sponsors and lenders and is able to provide 'clever solutions to complex problems', utilising the full armoury of financial products throughout the capital structure. The firm has been at the forefront of the trend towards public-to-private financings during 2019, advising on a number of high profile transactions. Co-head of the global banking practice, Philip Bowden, is well-versed in the most sophisticated techniques utilised in the leveraged finance market, as exemplified by his recent representation of lenders in a mandate which incorporated conventional infrastructure financing together with leveraged finance concepts. 'Highly experienced financing lawyer' Robin Harvey has 'truly seen it all before' and is therefore able to act with great agility and precision on behalf of his impressive cadre of private equity sponsor clients. Denise Gibson is best known for her lender side work on behalf of both commercial/investment banks, as well as a growing number of credit funds. Matt Moore is also recommended as a result of his domestic and cross-border work for the full scope of lenders, including investment banks and private debt funds. High profile former practice head Jonathan Brownson has left for the London arm of Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP alongside high yield specialist Jake Keaveny.Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
We’ve been highly impressed with the sponsor-side financing practice since entering into a panel relationship a few years ago. Both senior and junior lawyers are technically very capable, ensuring our financings are front of market and consistently delivering clever solutions to complex problems.
The individuals are also very personable and have extended the working relationship beyond simply borrower/lawyer. They are a class act.
The team has deep market insight.
A very strong team to work with when raising external debt financing for a new transaction.
Robin Harvey is a highly experienced financing lawyer and has truly “seen it all before”, meaning he is quick to deal with issues and able to deliver clever/bespoke solutions.
Key clients
Bridgepoint
PAI Partners
HG Capital
H.I.G Capital
Providence Equity Partners
CVC Capital Partners
Charterhouse Capital Partners
Ardian
Exponent Private Equity
OMERS Private Equity
Bank lending: investment grade debt and syndicated loans Tier 1
Benefiting from deeply entrenched banking ties, and also picking up a sizeable amount of work for investment grade corporates, Allen & Overy LLP has 'deep market insight' across the spectrum of big-ticket syndicated loan mandates for the purposes of general corporate lending, working capital facilities, refinancings and to facilitate M&A transactions. The global corporate lending team is effectively 'able to gather insight from the firm's broader knowledgebase', enabling it to advise on more esoteric/bespoke matters, including deals incorporating Islamic finance facilities and Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) considerations. David Campbell has deep knowledge of the syndicated loans market for borrowers and lenders, and is at the forefront of market developments, including as it relates to ESG-related mandates and lending facilities in the aftermath of LIBOR as the interest rate benchmark. Melissa Samuel excels in Nordic-related transactions and is a key member of the team that also includes Simon Roberts . Former head of corporate lending Trevor Borthwick joined Mayer Brown International LLP in April 2020.
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Key clients
Saudi Electric Company
Imperial Brands Plc
Arcadia Group
Man Group Plc
Manchester City Football Club
Pennon Group Plc
Sage Group
Neste Oyj
Gym Group Plc
Next Plc
Banking litigation: investment and retail Tier 1
With a track record for guiding leading financial institutions through a range of contentious issues from large disputes to regulatory investigations, Allen & Overy LLP 'is very often the first port of call when problems arise'. It is highlighted as 'one of the leading firms in the City for banking litigation' and benefits from the ability to leverage its transactional and non-contentious banking and finance practices both in the UK and internationally. Calum Burnett, who has a strong contentious regulatory practice, leads the team which also includes Arnondo Chakrabarti ,who combines banking litigation, contentious regulatory and corporate crime expertise. Andrew Denny has been particularly active in defending lenders involved in misselling and IBOR (Interbank lending rate) manipulation claims, while 'up and coming star' Mahmood Lone focuses on derivatives disputes. Other names to note include consultant Peter Watson and recently promoted counsel Helen Biggin, who handle aircraft finance disputes, and counsel Oliver Rule who handles finance litigation with a focus on insolvency and trustee disputes. Mona Vaswani and Marc Florent left the team to join Milbank and Baker McKenzie respectively.
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Testimonials
‘Almost certainly the top investment banking litigation practice in London. A&O has deep relationships with numerous investment banks, with the consequence that it is very often the first port of call when problems arise’
‘Very experienced and capable in banking litigation.
‘Mahmood Lone is an up and coming star in the field of banking litigation. Very hands-on, very knowledgeable and calm under pressure. Able to run large and small cases with ease’
‘Allen & Overy are one of the leading firms in the City for banking litigation’
‘Arnondo Chakrabarti is a tough litigator who fights hard for his clients’
‘Andrew Denny is very bright and hands on – a deep thinker who immerses himself in the detail of the issues’
‘Arnondo Chakrabarti is calm and unflappable, excellent at probing and evaluating the strategic options’
Key clients
Bayerische Landesbank
Caixa D’Estalvis
Citibank
Deutsche Bank
HSH Nordbank AG
ING Bank
Corporate governance Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP acts across the full spectrum of corporate governance issues, with dedicated teams handling AGMs and annual reporting, shareholder activism and board disputes, Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance reviews, and providing continuous advice to boards through its A&O Consulting platform. Additionally, the team advises corporates on issues around workplace environment, harassment, corporate culture, and environmental sustainability. The firm counts a considerable number of FTSE-listed companies as clients, including household names in financial services and retail. Richard Browne takes the lead on transactional work, including hostile takeover defence and other issues relating to takeovers and acquisitions. Global corporate chair Richard Cranfield specialises in advising financial institutions on a range of governance issues and restructurings, with David Broadley also heavily involved in the financial services sector. Paul McCarthy handles employee equity and executive renumeration, while Matthew Townsend advises on environmental, regulatory, and trade-related matters. Victoria Rankmore and Kate Astley specialise in AGMs and annual reporting, with both promoted to counsel in mid-2020.
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Testimonials
‘When the full Covid-19 crisis struck, the value of David Broadley’s team was apparent – they were able to advise with confidence and clarity how market practice was changing (which was daily). We received a high level of carefully thought-out and bespoke advice that meant we negotiated this period without missteps.’
‘Kate Astley and Victoria Rankmore have consistently exceeded expectations. The responses are fast, to the point and leave me with no further questions or doubt as to how I will proceed.’
‘Whilst the core team are very strong they also have dedicated expertise in a broad number of areas that can be called in to support complex issues.’
‘Richard Cranfield and Claire Coppel are particularly strong in both their technical abilities and their understanding of how legal matters relate to real business issues and situations – giving strong legal and pragmatic support.’
‘The team has a number of individuals who are not just highly experienced in all corporate matters but who also have extensive expertise and experience in relation to the laws and governance requirements applicable to mutual organisations, which is invaluable.’
‘It is the depth of experience and expertise across a broad range of organisations and issues that stands out in comparison to competitors. In addition, the responsiveness of the team and the commercial acumen that they apply to a range of complex situations and problems are valued greatly.’
‘David Broadley and have his team have provided pragmatic, practical, commercial advice on challenging and new ideas that has helped our business cut costs significantly.’
Key clients
Aviva
Direct Line
Great Portland Estates
Ibstock
Imperial Brands
Sage Group
TUI
Associated British Foods
Quilter (formerly Old Mutual Wealth)
Network International
Hiscox
Consort Medical
McCarthy & Stone
DWF
Electra Private Equity
Man Group
Prudential
Corporate restructuring & insolvency Tier 1
Led by Ian Field and Earl Griffith , Allen & Overy LLP's 13-partner team has the critical mass and 'high level of technical expertise' to ensure that it wins mandates advising key stakeholders in many of the most significant domestic and cross-border restructurings in the market. Active in situations throughout the capital structure, the team is able to provide integrated advice using the expertise of lawyers spread throughout the firm's network of European, Asian, Middle Eastern and US offices, enabling clients to receive the benefit of a team that can effectively implement core insolvency techniques across a range of scenarios, including US Chapter 11 reorganisations and UK schemes of arrangement. Although the firm handles work for an array of stakeholders, its strong institutional banking ties and involvement at the front end of deals, ensure that it picks up a large volume of mandates for senior creditors, including its recent role for the revolving credit facility lenders on Thomas Cook's high-profile £1.65bn restructuring. Randal Weeks is pivotal to many of the firm's banking and funds-side mandates and is a key senior practitioner in a team that also includes the 'outstanding' Jennifer Marshall, whose 'tremendous thought leadership' regularly sees her providing key strategic advice to clients on hot-button issues in the market, including as it relates to Brexit and European insolvency related legislation. Joel Ferguson continues to develop a strong creditor side practice for banks on restructurings and formal insolvencies, in addition to work in more niche areas including for swap counterparties in structured finance restructurings.
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Testimonials
The firm’s ability to deploy wide-ranging specialist resources at speed, in order to deliver even in the most condensed time frame is difficult to match.
The team provides a very high level of technical expertise combined with a strong work ethic.
The outstanding Jennifer Marshall displays tremendous thought leadership.
Key clients
KCA Deutag Group
PwC
Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority
ABM AMRO
Debt capital markets Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP is described by a client as ‘the leading firm in DCM, very pragmatic and rated very highly in everything it does'. Jonathan Melton heads up the team, which 'combines expert technical knowledge with exceptional awareness of the needs of its clients' businesses'. The firm is one of the most active for international debt issuances and MTN programmes, and it is notably prominent in liability management exercises, equity-linked bonds, regulatory capital transactions and subordinated debt. It also deals with particularly cutting-edge structures, as was evident when it acted for a large international bank on the world's first end-to-end blockchain bond issue. Theo Trayhurn (who is 'an excellent sparring partner and incredibly pragmatic'), the 'exceptional' Daniel Fletcher and Tom Grant provide 'unrivalled and top-class service'. Jamie Durham's expertise spans regulatory capital, emerging markets, Islamic finance and equity-linked transactions. US-qualified practitioner Sachin Davé advises foreign governments, issuers and investment banks on equity and debt offerings, including Rule 144A, Regulation S and other private placement transactions. Up-and-coming partner Peter Crossan is also recommended.
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Testimonials
‘It is the leading firm in DCM, very pragmatic and rated very highly in everything it does.’
‘The team combines expert technical knowledge with exceptional awareness of the needs of its clients’ businesses.’
‘The finance practice is full of industry leaders and technical experts who contribute greatly to the success of their clients. A standout performers in the past year has been Dan Fletcher who is an exceptional lawyer and importantly also a good person.‘
‘The level of service is super, the best we have ever had from a Magic Circle law firm. We often have many time-demanding projects running at the same time, and we still get top-quality service and consistency across our projects. Three of our programmes had originated with other London law firms and, after years of poor quality service, we decided to move the programmes over to A&O. We have been extremely satisfied and have given a lot of our business to A&O due to the excellent quality of work.’
‘Theo Trayhurn is our partner contact. He is fantastic! Theo is very quick to respond and is good at delegating to many of the capable members of his team while remaining in the background for the plain vanilla issues. This allows him to work on the tougher innovative projects. He is an excellent sparring partner and is very strong at drafting technical provisions. Theo is incredibly pragmatic, always trying to find a workable solution and not just problems. He definitely knows his stuff!‘
‘A&O is one of the top law firms for debt capital markets transactions which is why it is instructed on many of our transactions. It offers a great deal of expertise and the documentation is typically of a high standard. The partners and lawyers at all levels are highly professional, and have the requisite knowledge and expertise.’
‘Daniel Fletcher, Tom Grant and Theo Trayhurn are miles ahead of their peers and provide us with an unrivalled and top-class service in all matters. They are trusted advisers to in-house legal and the DCM business.’
‘It has a forward-looking team that is at the top of the market. It has great people to deal with on a professional and personal level, providing cutting-edge thinking and advice.’
Derivatives and structured products Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP has a market-leading practice in all areas of derivatives and structured finance, often playing a lead role in key market developments whether regulatory, technological or structural. 'The firm drafted most of the industry documentation in the derivatives space, particularly so with credit derivatives, so I wouldn't go to any other house for complex credit derivatives work', remarks one client. Its work spans complex financing structures for illiquid assets, portfolio transfers, regulatory advice and a high volume of traditional derivatives and structured finance transactions. It is currently leading the structured financing market for direct lending platforms, it has a busy practice for regulatory capital-driven synthetic risk transfer transactions, and is a key adviser on bank collateralised funding programmes. OTC derivatives regulation expert Emma Dwyer leads the practice. Guy Antrobus is a leading adviser on the implementation of initial margin regulations. Parya Badie is a 'standout partner' for synthetic risk transfer products. David Benton is a pre-eminent market expert on credit derivatives. Among the other leaders in their fields are Paul Cluley, structured products specialist Tony Drake-Brockman, equity finance partner Daniel Shurman; Richard Tredgett who is 'a most knowledgeable and experienced adviser on derivatives-related issues'; and the innovation-focused David Wakeling. Up-and-coming partners Tom Roberts and Suril Patel are also recommended.
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Testimonials
‘The firm drafted most of the industry documentation in the derivatives space, particularly so with credit derivatives. I wouldn’t go to any other house for complex credit derivatives work.’
‘Richard Tredgett continues to be a most knowledgeable and experienced adviser on derivatives-related issues across various asset classes.’
‘The Allen & Overy team will deliver. Parya Badie is a standout partner.’
Key clients
Deutsche Bank AG
CLO
BNP PARIBAS, BofA Merrill Lynch, HSBC, J.P. Morgan and Morgan Stanley
ISDA
International bank
EMEA Credit Derivatives Determinations Committee
NatWest Bank and NatWest Markets (NatWest)
Fidelis Insurance Ireland DAC
Goldman Sachs SPV- Luminis repackaging programme
Emerging markets Tier 1
Emerging markets work is a critical component of the global strategy of Allen & Overy LLP, which is building on its market-leading finance practice in London to handle capital markets, bank finance, project finance, corporate, private equity and, increasingly, litigation in key jurisdictions. The breadth of the firm's work goes hand-in-hand with its in-depth experience in key industry sectors, such as energy, infrastructure and natural resources. Whether for loans, bonds, debt issuances, acquisition finance or private equity work, the 'dedicated team' has a broad client base that includes export credit agencies (ECAs), development finance institutions (DFIs), investors and sponsors. Sanjeev Dhuna chairs the India group and is head of emerging markets, while Greg Brown stands out for debt financings, commodities and corporate finance. Also recommended are US-qualified capital markets partner Sachin Davé; ECA practice head Lorraine Bayliss; Africa group head Tim Scales; energy expert Andrew Castle; newly promoted partner Oleg Khomenko; and trade and commodity finance specialist Catherine Lang-Anderson.
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Testimonials
‘They are a great team who provide a thorough analysis of the matters presented and perfect output in terms of the documents produced.’
‘One can always rely on the A&O team and be sure that the resulting product will always will be at or above an acceptable level, with a minimal amount of errors or misunderstandings, and any potential issues are foreseen and dealt in a timely manner beforehand.’
‘A very dedicated team focused on problem-solving and offering a solution rather then simply following the client’s instruction.’
‘Oleg Khomenko is flexible and easily approachable.’
‘Working out of business hours is not a problem for associate Daisy Chapman and senior associate Hugh Mathison if it is really needed to meet the deadline.’
Key clients
Goldman Sachs PIA
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)
Servizi Assicurativi del Commercio Estero (SACE)
Standard Chartered Bank
Citibank N.A.
ING Bank N.V.
Metinvest
The African Development Bank
Emerging Africa Infrastructure Fund
Employers Tier 1
The employment team at Allen & Overy LLP has a standout reputation among high-profile companies from the financial services and TMT sectors. Among major team developments, Robbie Sinclair, an expert on the new regulatory regime for financial services, was promoted to partner in May 2019. Another key development was the lateral hire of Vicky Wickremeratne, who joined from Simmons & Simmons in December 2019. She brings a wealth of expertise in financial services; other strengths include cross-border matters and high-value litigation, especially in discrimination and whistleblowing. The 'one of a kind' team head Sarah Henchoz continues to be highly active on investigations of reputational importance for a number of market-leading companies. Other senior team members are Karen Seward and Mark Mansell. Alongside core work spanning litigation, strategic advisory work and transactional support, the team has grown its work in culture and conduct matters, especially in areas including bullying and sexual harassment.
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Testimonials
Gold standard attention to contentious matters which allows in-house specialists to truly rely on the cost effective management of litigation and disputes.
Incisive commercial interpretation of risks and quick out of the starting blocks with their views, always thought leaders on new challenges.
Sarah Henchoz: Almost superhuman ability to be on the detail where needed, without losing her strategic poise. One of a kind in the market.
Robbie Sinclair: highly pragmatic commercial approach
Robbie Sinclair and Sarah Hitchins are a team that can provide us with comprehensive advice on employment and related regulatory matters as well as support in employee disputes. Trusted advisers on matters that can carry significant reputational consequences. Their advice is always practical and reflects an understanding of our individual and institutional concerns.
Vicky Wickremeratne is solution orientated and pragmatic. In particular, I find that her many years working at a global investment bank before returning to private practice give her a differentiated commercial perspective.
Sarah Henchoz is a trusted partner for our team on some of our trickiest issues. She provides clear legal advice and, much more than that, thought leadership and partnership on some of our trickiest issues.
Exceptionally client focused, very pragmatic and understand our issues completely.
Key clients
Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Man Group
A number of banks, building societies and insurers (in excess of 40) and a number of FCA-only authorised firms (in excess of 35), including asset and fund managers and broker-dealers
Samsung SDS
Swansea University
WPP
Energy and infrastructure Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP's strong bench of energy and infrastructure specialists handle the full range of work for clients in the sector, with the firm's transactional and finance expertise backed up by capabilities covering environmental, regulatory, competition, tax, employment and planning issues. The global infrastructure group is led by David Lee; former energy co-head Gareth Price was recently appointed as the magic circle firm's new managing partner.Environment Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP fields a sizable standalone practice, which advises clients on a variety of environmental and regulatory law matters, including Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) work, the transportation and storage of hazardous goods, corporate governance and compliance issues, and sustainability work. Sustainable finance and ESG compliance issues are increasing areas of focus for the team, which is led by Matthew Townsend, who specialises in chemicals regulation, waste, carbon and finance mandates, and energy matters, which regularly have a cross-border element. Clients span the fossil energy, nuclear power, manufacturing, mining and renewable energy sectors. Another name to note is senior associate Tom d’Ardenne.
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Testimonials
‘Very good technical knowledge.’
‘Matthew Townsend very knowledgeable and business focused.’
‘Commercial and responsive.’
Key clients
Shell
Lenders to the Rovuma LNG Project
Macquarie
TAQA
Ramboll
Uniper
Seagate
Samsung
Phillips 66
Horizon Nuclear Power
PetroChina
Allnex
LG Electronics
ATP Media
Under Armour
Total
Mubudala
NordStream
Equity capital markets - mid-high cap Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP fields a deep bench of English and US equity capital markets experts, which advises issuers, investment banks and financial advisers on some of the largest and most complex transactions in the UK and EMEA. It is a first port of call for big-ticket listings, and other high-profile equity fundraisings and transactions. In one highlight, Michael Bloch (who made partner in 2019) and Jeff Hendrickson were among the advisers to Credit Suisse International on a €1.2bn block trade of shares and related €500m equity collar transaction. David Broadley, who is the head of the UK ECM practice, specialises in acting for issuer clients in the financial services sector. Adam Wells is the head of the US corporate finance practice. James Roe and senior associate Eimear Coady are other key names in the team.
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Testimonials
‘A&O’s ECM practice is strong, with a lot of deep experience across the board. Their experience of IPOs certainly differentiates them from other big firms.‘
‘James Roe – one of the best technicians for UK corporate and securities law. Adam Wells – very strong US securities partner, always available and very focused on finding solutions.‘
‘A&O is technically excellent, always interested in the cutting edge of practice, and responsive to commercial needs. Adam Wells and Jeff Hendrickson are the top US practitioners there – I have known them for years and always admire their US securities knowledge.‘
‘One of the go-to firms.‘
‘Large and experienced team. Innovative thinking and passion.‘
‘James Roe – a subject matter expect and great business partner on transactions.‘
Key clients
Marks & Spencer
Network International
DWF
Credit Suisse International
Sirius Minerals
Man Group plc
Naspers and Prosus
Underwriters to Astrazeneca
NMC Health
Lenders to Interserve plc
Underwriters to Investec Asset Management
Marel
Circassia Pharmaceuticals
The managers to Arima Real Estate SOCIMI, S.A.
TP ICAP
Financial services: contentious Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP provides clients with a ‘wealth of technical and practical experience' ranging from major regulatory investigations to high profile disputes, as well as multi-jurisdictional and multi-regulator matters. The firm’s regulatory and criminal expertise covers anti-corruption and bribery, anti-money laundering, antitrust and sanctions, with notable experience in the senior managers and certification regime (SMCR) . Calum Burnett leads the practice and is known for domestic and cross-border regulatory investigations and enforcement proceedings. The ‘quality of partners and associates in the team is outstanding', including Eve Giles, who specialises in cases relating to international and domestic corruption, cartels, fraud, money laundering, insider dealing, market abuse and extradition; Mahmood Lone, who focuses on high profile investigations into alleged market abuse and manipulation; and newly promoted partner Sarah Hitchins, who has particular strength in acting for financial services firms and listed companies.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘A&O are our first choice for any of our contentious regulatory issues’
‘All the team are very easy to work with and extremely responsive. A pleasure to work with’
‘Calum Burnett and Sarah Hitchins have an invaluable combination of excellent subject matter expertise and industry knowledge. They always go the extra mile’
‘Often our go to firm for advice on a wide range of contentious financial services issues’
‘Tim House is fantastic at providing strategic advice and navigating difficult issues, as well as being very intelligent and charming’
‘Mahmood Lone is an excellent lawyer, who works extremely hard to provide a high quality of service to his clients. His attention to detail and faultless work product are unparalleled’
‘Sarah Hitchins is very smart and extremely user friendly’
Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 1
The ‘experts on all areas of financial services regulation’ at Allen & Overy LLP provide an ‘incredible breadth of knowledge’. The firm’s domestic and international experience covers Brexit related matters, Fintech, bank resolution and insolvency, governance, prudential and financial market infrastructure. Damian Carolan leads the team and has ‘outstanding technical expertise which he applies in a clear and commercial manner’, particularly in derivatives, securities regulation, the development of new markets and the regulation of financial market infrastructure. Also notable are Bob Penn, who advises banks, asset managers, market infrastructure providers and financial institutions; Ben Regnard-Weinrabe, who leads the payments law group; Kate Sumpter, who handles regulatory-driven structural change projects for international banks; Etay Katz, who has Fintech and transactional experience; and counsel Joanne Owens, who is a ‘standout performer in consumer finance matters’.
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Testimonials
‘Rarely do you have a team of specialists, litigators, anti-trust lawyers, regulatory lawyers, who all are experts in their fields and at the same time have such a good understanding of the financial and derivatives markets’
‘Extensive experience and expertise in financial services regulation and how it should be applied in practice’
‘An exceptional combination of commercial awareness and intellectual engagement with the most difficult questions’
‘Great expertise, particularly in consumer finance. Capacity to handle the biggest and most complex clients. The go-to team for large corporates and investors’
‘Their resources are considerable and can handle everything from the small discrete questions through to significant regulatory change projects, as well as having a consultancy area that can help with implementation’
‘Damian Carolan is particularly strong. He is very commercial in his approach and his advice, understanding the financial context well. That really sets him apart. ‘He is also very easy to deal with’
‘Joanne Owens has excellent consumer credit expertise’
‘Etay Katz is extremely quick on the uptake, using all the resources of the firm to deliver on challenging projects’
Key clients
LCH Ltd.
The CREST Settlement banks, comprising 12 top tier banks
Refinitiv, Tradeweb, Blackstone and Thomson Reuters
BNP Paribas
SwapAgent Limited (SwapAgent) (An LCH group company)
Banking Circle
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Group (SMBC)/SMFG Group
Standard Chartered Bank Group (SCB Group)
Systemic Risk Council (SRC)
HSBC
Bacs Payment Schemes Limited (BACS), part of Pay.UK
Clearstream Banking S.A. (Clearstream)
Blackstone
BNP Paribas (BNPP)
A Japanese global systemically important financial institution
Nomura International Plc and Nomura Asset Management
Ebay
Paysafe
Amazon
Uber
A leading provider of student loans
Edenred- the Right Fuel Card Company
Fintech Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP has particularly strong credentials in financial services regulation, as well as a wealth of experience advising traditional and emerging technology platforms and services on all aspects of their operations, underlined by its high-profile Fuse tech incubator, which has now been running since 2017. The practice is also well-equipped to advise a diverse range of clients on insurtech matters, investment and fundraising. Ben Regnard-Weinrabe is co-lead on the firm's fintech initiative; he works alongside Jane Finlayson-Brown, who has a strong track record of advising companies on information technology, including data exploitation. Etay Katz specialises in assisting financial services companies with regulatory compliance in the UK and various other jurisdictions.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘A&O have a strong payments practice and are capable of advising on a host of different topics. Their strong client base means that they have powerful insights into market practice and the attitude of the regulators to our various products.’
‘A&O’s fintech practice is one of the best in London. Its members are very knowledgeable and experienced in a wide range of projects.’
‘Ben Regnard-Weinrabe is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in a wide range of financial services matters and can provide us with a great breadth of advice. We like his particular aptitude for helping us on some of our more innovative services and where there may not be such established practice. He is able to help us navigate around the associated regulatory issues with confidence.’
‘Nikki Johnstone is very affable and approachable, and she combines that with a profound knowledge of the regulations and the market. She provides pragmatic and actionable advice.’
‘The technical excellence is a given with a firm of this calibre, but what sets this team apart is its friendly manner, availability and willingness to be flexible. They understand the pace at which a small fintech business likes to work and the pressures this puts on internal counsel to deliver to tight timelines and will always endeavour to support that. They are also willing to take a pragmatic view to get a deal done, rather than labour points.’
‘Will Samengo-Turner led the first transaction we did with Allen & Overy and very quickly understood how best to work with us and management. He was a great support and ally for the in-house function, not just a trusted adviser.‘
‘Ben Regnard-Weinrabe is one of the few true PSD2 experts in Europe who has experience with a number of tech players. Ben knows the rules and knows the regulator, making him an excellent sparring partner.’
Key clients
Facebook Group
Zopa
Paysafe
Banking Circle
Skrill
Uber
eBay
SumUp
Fraud: civil Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP's team of 'excellent litigators' represents claimants and defendants, including large corporates and financial institutions, in multijurisdictional fraud cases involving bribery, embezzlement, corruption and many other areas of financial crime. Jonathan Hitchin's expertise includes representing clients in cross-border corruption cases and criminal investigations brought by the SFO. Mahmood Lone specialises in advising financial institutions facing allegations of fraud or mis-selling of financial products. Brandon O’Neil is dual-qualified in the UK and New York, enabling him to act for clients in parallel proceedings involving asset tracing and fraud. Associates Helen Biggin and Juliet de Pencier are both very active in international fraud disputes. Former partner Mona Vaswani left the practice to join Milbank in 2019.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘A&O are well known as leaders in their field for high profile complex litigation and our experience of working with them affirms this.’
‘Senior associate Juliet de Pencier is very easy to work with and is always professional in her communications with us and the Claimants. She is extremely organised and a very hard worker.’
Infrastructure (PFI and PPP) Tier 1
'Clear market leader' Allen & Overy LLP has a strong infrastructure team able to operate across the full range of work from fundraisings to acquisitions and PPP deals, but with particular strength in investment work. Global infrastructure group head David Lee is backed by a sizeable practice that includes M&A specialists Richard Evans and Sara Pickersgill, as well as Jonathan Bevan and Jocelyn Land and 'outstanding' capital markets partner Tim Conduit . The team's notable mandates include advising a Macquarie-led consortium on the UK infrastructure project Silvertown Tunnel, as well as playing a role in offshore wind projects such as advising JP Morgan Asset Management on the refinancing of the Beta and Dynamo wind farm portfolios of Ventient Energy.
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Testimonials
‘An excellent team. They are clear market leaders – the people one trusts on important and innovative transactions globally’
‘Great team that works together extremely well.’
‘Tim Conduit is outstanding. He’s very knowledgeable and technical, always providing sound and considered advice’
Key clients
Macquarie
3i Infrastructure plc
Equitix Investment Management
Cadent Gas
First State Investments
Alpha Trains
AXA Infrastructure Equity 2 SAS
Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (Europe) Limited
IIF
Allianz Capital Partners
Insurance litigation: for policyholders Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP acts for policyholders across a wide range of insurance disputes, including D&O claims, property damage matters, professional indemnity cases and construction cover work. The team's client roster includes a high volume of international businesses, and the practice works alongside the firm's global network of offices to handle cross-border matters. In addition to acting for clients in court cases, the group also has experience in arbitration proceedings. The practice is jointly led by Joanna Page and Richard Farnhill; Page is experienced in acting for clients in the Commercial Court and arbitration proceedings, while Farnhill is dual qualified in English and Wales and New York.
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Testimonials
‘They combine very inventive legal analysis with good commercial judgement.’
‘Joanna Page is hugely experienced; has great judgement; and is calm under pressure.’
‘Richard Farnhill has a compendious knowledge of the law, and is very inventive in applying to difficult situations.’
‘Russell Butland is intellectually extremely rigorous.’
‘The team can be trusted to produce an excellent piece of work. The advice is clear even when the matters are complex. They are also great people and treat you as a person, not a client.’
Key clients
The Prudential Assurance Company Limited
Intellectual property: patents (contentious and non-contentious) Tier 1
With a 'phenomenally successful' bench and regular involvement in high-end trials before UK and EU courts, Allen & Overy LLP remains a premier name for patent litigation, fielding a team whose 'brainpower and litigation firepower are not exceeded anywhere'. On the life sciences side, Marjan Noor, Marc Döring and senior associate Rafi Allos handle revocation actions and Supplementary Protection Certificate (SPC) validity proceedings, while Neville Cordell recently advanced infringement claims for transgenic mouse technology in a headline Supreme Court proceeding. Mark Heaney takes on disputes in the technology sector, including Standard-Essential Patents (SEP) and fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory (FRAND) licensing litigation for household names, while Mark Ridgway is the key name for trade secrets litigation. Jim Ford and Nigel Parker have a full-service commercial IP offering for collaboration and R&D negotiations and IP-rich M&A support. The Belfast-based Science Analyst team provides further technical know-how for complex contentious and non-contentious applications.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘This is one of London’s foremost patent litigation teams. Marjan Noor has a phenomenally successful team dealing with the biggest of cases. The brainpower and litigation firepower here are not exceeded anywhere.‘
‘A superbly well-regarded firm with an increasingly strong presence in the TMT and Intellectual Property sectors. Having acquired experienced partners from other firms in the sector in recent years, the firm’s sector reputation is going from strength to strength, successfully attracting significant international clients away from well-known firms in the sector.‘
‘With an unrivalled depth of talent Allen & Overy have built a practice that is internationally renowned and the envy of the City.‘
‘Marjan Noor is THE life science patents litigator in London. Marjan is a wily tactician, a sharp intellectual lawyer, and a warm and fun human being. The model of a law firm partner in 2020.‘
‘Rafi Allos is a brilliant associate whose ability and instincts are extremely impressive.‘
‘Mark Heaney is exceptionally skilled, experienced and perceptive, rapidly grasping the perfect strategic approach in any case. He is fun to work with and leads his high-quality team with great skill.‘
‘Neville Cordell offers a steady hand in the biggest of international disputes, effortlessly coordinating multiple streams of activities to ensure a perfectly executed multijurisdictional approach.‘
‘James Fox is a pleasure to work with and a definite star of the future.‘
Key clients
Eli Lilly & Company
Huawei
Bayer
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
MGI Tech
Airbus Operations
GN Store Nord
Merck & Co.
Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP’s IP team has impressive expertise in the field of trade secrets litigation, as evidenced by Neville Cordell and Marc Döring’s multijurisdictional defence concerning complex medical formulas in the life sciences sector . Practice head and 'IP guru' David Stone and Cordell handle big-ticket contentious matters in the digital sphere, including domain name disputes, digital copyright litigation and trade mark infringement proceedings against video game developers. Stone is also a go-to name for EU design law. Jim Ford and Nigel Parker head the commercial IP practice, handling high-value joint ventures and commercial agreements involving extensive brand name rights and licensing terms. The global client base comprises well-known names in the fast food, FMCG, media and entertainment, sports, travel and consumer electronics industries.
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Testimonials
‘Allen & Overy have significant pedigree and depth’
‘What makes this practice unique is David Stone. Multi-talented, all round nice guy, and IP guru, David is at the heart of the firm’s client-driven, multijurisdictional practice. Dealing with the firm is a pleasure.‘
Key clients
Manchester United
News UK
Marks & Spencer
Warner Bros
McDonalds
Epic Games
James Bond
Gibson Brands
Refinitiv
BNP Paribas SA
The Coca-Cola Company
Grünenthal
Islamic finance Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP's market-leading Islamic finance team in London is an integral part of the global Islamic finance practice. It serves as a one-stop shop for leading Islamic banks, export credit agencies, development finance institutions, sponsors and corporate borrowers. The group's expertise in high-profile, complex and innovative transactions spans a multitude of areas, including project finance, asset finance, derivatives and structured finance mandates. Jamie Durham is particularly knowledgeable about sukuk issuances. In 2019, notable highlights included Lorraine Bayliss and counsel Sajjad Khoshroo advising the export credit agencies (CESCE, K-Exim, K-Sure, SACE, UKEF) and banks on the $4.2bn financing of the expansion and modernisation of the Bapco refinery. Senior associate Sajjad Juma, whose practice is split between London and Dubai, is also highly recommended.
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Testimonials
‘A&O teams maintain a client-focused approach that delivers practical advice and targeted solutions to client’s legal needs. We like how A&O always delivers the theoretical background and goes on further to highlight the risks and benefits of each suggested course of action. This is incredibly valuable for clients to make an informed decision.‘
‘A&O’s Islamic Finance practice is unrivalled in EMEA and the team is well versed on a broad range of Islamic financing products. The level of client service, responsiveness and attention to detail is also fantastic.‘
‘I worked mainly with Sajjad Juma from the London Islamic financing team. Saj was simply fantastic and had a great command of the product (a Murabaha financing). He was also able to seamlessly work with Indonesian counsel to iron out any differences between the “gulf-style” Murabaha and certain Indonesian banks’ interpretation of Murabahas. A really technical operator with excellent interpersonal skills.‘
‘Mr Sajjad Khoshroo has provided very pertinent legal advice and thought leadership on a challenging and first time situation which was invaluable; it informed the decision making of the interested parties in a unique and unrivalled manner.‘
‘A&O’s Islamic Finance team draws from a wealth of knowledge and experience. We trust their expertise and can rely on them with confidence.‘
‘A&O can provide a seamless service on all financing matters, whether conventional or Islamic. They are truly a one-stop-shop.‘
‘Sajjad Khoshroo is pragmatic and solution-oriented. Nice to have on the team when trying to close the deal.‘
Key clients
Saudi Electricity Company
First Abu Dhabi Bank
Credit Agricole
Saudi British Bank
Banque Saudi Fransi
Samba Financial Group
Arab National Bank
Gatehouse Bank
Standard Chartered Bank
Oil and gas Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP fields an impressive energy and natural resources team with 'fantastic M&A expertise' and 'breadth of capabilities' throughout the entire life cycle of an asset, and particular depth in upstream and midstream oil and gas matters. Global managing partner Gareth Price is the go-to adviser for all energy sector participants on structured finance and corporate transactions. Other key partners include Andrew Castle, John Geraghty and Troy Edwards. Lorraine Bayliss has a notable reputation in international project finance and secured lending transactions, acting for both borrowers and lenders.
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Testimonials
‘Fantastic M&A expertise. Creative thinkers. Engaged partners. Breadth of capabilities to draw from across the firm is exceptional’
‘Andrew Castle – excellent team leader with broad experience.’
Key clients
Macquarie Capital/MIRA/Green Investment Group
Ørsted/Dong
Trans Adriatic Pipeline AG
Sizewell C
TAPI Pipeline Company Limited
Borealis
Aberdeen European Infrastructure GP II
Cintra Global
United Nations – The Office of the Quartet
Pensions (non-contentious) Tier 1
The 'market-leading' non-contentious pensions team at Allen & Overy LLP is headed up by Neil Bowden, who has substantive experience in liability management. More broadly, the offering is split on a 50/50 basis between employer and trustee clients and covers legal areas such as advice on major strategic decisions and high-profile rectification projects (with an emphasis on those featuring significant financial/industrial risk). A recent highlight for the firm has been representing Lloyds Banking Group Pensions Trustees against Lloyds Bank in the industry test case regarding GMP equalisation. Key personnel include Jane Higgins, who has a 'remarkable breadth of experience', the 'authoritative and very commercial' Andy Cork, and technical expert Jessica Kerslake. On the contentious side, the firm's offering includes 'very reassuring' counsel Jason Shaw. He has proficiency in litigation involving the rectification of documents, professional negligence and claims by trustees against both administrators and advisers.
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Testimonials
‘Market-leading. Frequently bring direct first-hand knowledge to help solve thorny problems. Thorough‘.
‘Exceptionally practical and accessible and helpful team, with a deep understanding of the issues‘.
‘Strong combination of technical excellence and commercial acumen‘.
‘The team has unrivalled strength in depth, not simply in relation to core pensions issues but also with respect to all key ancillary issues such as investment, banking, collateral and contingent structures, administration and so on. The team combines this knowledge and experience with a sensible and pragmatic style, supported by excellent communication skills. Communicating complex topics and concepts in accessible terms is a core strength of all team members. They are a delight to work with, at all levels of the firm‘.
‘Neil Bowden, who leads the team, has probably unrivalled experience across a wide range of schemes and circumstances. He wears this experience lightly, being down to earth and pragmatic, whilst never losing focus on the interests of members. Jane Higgins has a remarkable breadth of experience; she is incredibly hard working, with unrivalled attention to detail, completely focused on delivering for clients‘.
‘Jane Higgins and Neil Bowden are both excellent and a real pleasure to work with. They understand what is required, and produce no more and no less‘.
‘Neil Bowden has a deep knowledge of pensions law and our trustees followed him from his previous firm‘.
‘Andy Cork is authoritative and very commercial, good at explaining complex aspects of pensions law‘.
Key clients
Lloyds Banking Group Pensions Trustees Limited
The Trustee of the BT Pension Scheme
The Trustee of the ICI Pension Fund
The Trustee of the Pfizer Group Pension Scheme
The Trustee of the Thomson Corporation Pension Scheme (Thomson Reuters)
RSA Insurance Group plc
Prudential Plc
The Trustee of the IHG UK Defined Contribution Pension Plan
Co-operative Group Limited
News UK
Power (including electricity, nuclear and renewables) Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP's practice is led by Gareth Price, who is highly regarded for handling all aspects of the development, acquisition, disposal and funding of energy assets, particularly in emerging global markets. The team is able to draw on a solid network of industry specialists, including Chris Andrew, Sheila Connell, Mark Walker, Troy Edwards and John Geraghty, who have outstanding combined expertise in conventional, low carbon and thermal power matters, renewables issues and nuclear energy work. The multidisciplinary group assists with a range of mandates from consenting and planning matters through to construction, financing, operation and disposal work.
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Key clients
NNB Generation Company (SZC) Limited
UK Green Investment Rampion Limited
Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (MIRA)
Green Investment Bank (GIG)
Total
Shell
Ørsted Wind Power A/A
Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ)
Property finance Tier 1
Fielding a strong five-partner team, Allen & Overy LLP is ‘a market-leading firm’ which ‘works on the biggest and most complex transactions and provides excellent and user-friendly advice’. Arthur Dyson focuses on senior and mezzanine financings, often in a pan-European context, and Paul Flanagan has a similar focus, with a strong emphasis on advising investment banks and private equity funds. The ‘incredibly knowledgeable’ Mark Manson-Bahr is another key name in the market for Europe-wide instructions, and is able to draw upon his previous experience in the firm’s Frankfurt office. Loan portfolio sales are a key strength of both Simon Roberts, who advises a number of international banks, and David Oppenheimer, whose broad expertise also includes handling intercreditor arrangements. At junior level, senior associate Peter Mailer, who is very strong on cross-border financings, is also recommended.
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Testimonials
‘A market-leading firm. They work on the biggest and most complex transactions and provide excellent and user-friendly advice.’
‘They are commercial in their approach and are always very responsive.’
‘Mark Manson-Bahr is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, with a deep understanding of the law and the relevant issues. He is also very commercially minded.’
‘The team provides excellent legal advice and a responsive service, with the breadth and depth to execute complex deals in challenging timeframes with no compromise in service.’
‘Mark Manson-Bahr is my go-to lawyer for technically excellent advice which always takes into account the commercial reality and practical considerations.’
‘Top-notch legal professionals who provide practical advice. Forward-thinking and business-minded. Paul Flanagan, David Oppenheimer and Peter Mailer are all outstanding.’
Public international law Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP's public international law (PIL) practice 'has incredible breadth and expertise'. It is highly sought after by states and international organisations, including international financial institutions, for the full range of PIL matters. Its scope of work covers disputes arising out of bilateral and multilateral investment treaties, human rights law, WTO issues, international treaties and conventions, international sanctions regimes, and sovereign immunity. Other notable areas of strength are boundary disputes, space law, international anti-terrorism conventions, trade issues, and trafficking and modern slavery matters. Mark Levy QC heads up the PIL practice in London, which also showcases Suzanne Spears, whose contentious practice encompasses investment treaty arbitration and state-to-state disputes. Also key to the group are investment treaty specialists Kate Davies and James Freeman, human rights working group chair Andrew Denny, and Matthew Townsend, who co-heads the global sanctions practice. Sarah Garvey is a highly regarded counsel, and strong support at the senior associate level is provided by Naomi Briercliffe, Guled Yusuf and Katrina Limond.
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Testimonials
‘Kate Davies is first rate. Really thoughtful, incredibly hard-working and willing to engage in alternative fee arrangements. I have used her for several cases and she has never put a foot wrong.’
‘Allen & Overy are excellent in terms of their strength and depth in this area, and their willingness to assist junior lawyers to expand their knowledge to assist clients better. They are completely reliable, have a great depth of knowledge and are able to see alternative arguments in a dispute.’
‘The two leading partners are Suzanne Spears and Andrew Denny. Their breadth of knowledge, intelligence and care for their clients is impressive. They are also both very approachable..
‘The team has incredible breadth and expertise in public international law. I have always been impressed by the quality of their work and their excellent reputation is well deserved.’
‘We have been advised by Guled Yusuf for a number of years. He is a first class lawyer: technically brilliant, charming and a delight to work with. He has a very calm and reassuring demeanour.’
‘Allen & Overy has a very strong standing and credibility in international arbitration, their lawyers have developed a highly sophisticated technical understanding on the energy sector from renewables (Naomi Briercliffe) to oil & gas (James Freeman). Few firms can take pride on knowing so well the energy and natural resources sector and international disputes, A&O is a place to go.’
‘Naomi Briercliffe is a one of a kind arbitration counsel, she combines her technical expertise on the energy sector with her agile procedural knowledge, she is leading the new generation of arbitration practitioners in the UK and internationally.’
Key clients
The European Union and the European Investment Bank
Federal Republic of Somalia
United Arab Emirates
Government of Dubai
Kingdom of Morocco
Islamic Republic of Pakistan
UniCredit
Masdar
RREEF
Genossenschaft Elektra Baselland
RWE Innogy
Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates) Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP continues to expand its global investigations practice to meet the rise in enforcement activity by worldwide anti-corruption, sanctions, financial services and antitrust authorities. It often handles cross-border and business critical investigations for large multinationals. The practice is well regarded for its expertise in local anti-bribery laws, data privacy laws, and investigative rules and procedures. The team is headed by Arnondo Chakrabarti, who handles the full gamut of corporate crime matters and counts FTSE 100 companies and global financial institutions as clients; Jonathan Hitchin is renowned for multi-jurisdictional corruption cases, cartel investigations and related private damages claims; while white-collar expert Eve Giles handles international and domestic corruption, cartels, fraud, money laundering, insider dealing, market abuse and extradition matters.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Arnondo Chakrabarti is calm and unflappable; excellent at probing and evaluating the strategic options.’
‘Eve Giles is very sympathetic and yet gritty. She has good judgement and is open to listening and taking on board the thoughts of others. The ‘real crime’ background within a magic circle firm makes a big difference.’
‘Eve Giles has steel and judgment and a wonderful way with people.’
‘Eve Giles is relentless with opponents but with a productive and calm manner that produces outstanding results.’
‘Jonathan Hitchin is in many ways the grandfather of this area of practice.’
‘Jonathan Hitchin is a real tiger of a litigator – definitely one you want on your side.’
‘Jonathan Hitchin is fantastic – understated but highly effective, and a real delight to work with.’
‘Lawson Caisley is a class act; hard-working and known for his legal ability, a lawyer’s lawyer and liked amongst his peers.’
‘Lawson Caisley is an excellent relationship partner, proactive and keen to understand the issues we face.’
‘Calum Burnett is extraordinarily knowledgeable, experienced and unflappable.’
Securitisation Tier 1
'The clear leader in European securitisation and loan portfolios, representing the majority of bidders in competitive sale processes', remarks a client of Allen & Overy LLP. Another notes that it has 'excellent subject matter knowledge, good business expertise and dedication to meet challenging timetables'. The firm has a deep bench of talent advising all parties on precedent-setting transactions involving all asset classes, including residential mortgages, commercial mortgages, consumer loans, corporate loans and CLOs, auto loans and leases, trade receivables, public sector, project finance and infrastructure. In 2019, its cutting-edge work included River Green Finance 2020 DAC, which was the first European CMBS structured as a green bond. Salim Nathoo leads the securitisation practice, in which the leading lights are the vastly experienced Sally Onions; Lucy Oddy, who is 'always very response, which is very impressive considering how many deals she works on'; Tom Constance; and the 'smart, capable and practical' Tim Conduit. Structured finance partners Franz Ranero and Suril Patel focus heavily on CLOs as part of an integrated practice involving the London and New York offices. Angela Clist is now head of the firm's Legal Services Centre in Belfast.
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Testimonials
‘A&O is the clear leader in European securitisation and loan portfolios, representing the majority of bidders in competitive sale processes. They have more knowledge of the latest issues affecting the respective pools as a result.’
‘I have worked with Lucy Oddy on all of my deals. She has helped us negotiate excellent terms in the related documentation and is always very response to any queries, which is very impressive considering how many deals she works on.’
‘The firm has excellent subject matter knowledge, good business expertise and dedication to meeting timetables, which are often challenging.’
‘Salim Nathoo has a huge amount of experience and knowledge, and an excellent ability to explain items and bring this expertise to life.’
‘This department has Tim Conduit in it, who is smart, capable and practical. He is not a sycophant. He gives clear, helpful advice and his research is great.’
‘Tim Conduit is great. He is so practical, reliable and pragmatic. He gives you legal advice you are confident is correct and he helps you to take a considered commercial decision. He is just very, very clever.’
Trade finance Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP has a dedicated trade and commodity finance team in London, which is part of its market-leading banking group. Its work focuses on complex and innovative financings in the trade and commodity space on behalf of major banks, commodity trading houses and large corporates. As well as transactional matters, it is also prominent in the restructuring of existing structures and in litigation arising from distressed situations. Its growing workload in this area is, in part, due to the addition of private equity funds, commodity traders, borrowers and banks to its client base. Up-and-coming partner Catherine Lang-Anderson leads the practice and she has experience in structured commodity finance, trade finance, receivables purchase and supply chain structures. Banking partner Greg Brown handles a wide range of debt finance with a particular focus on trade, commodities and emerging markets. David Campbell in the firm's restructuring group is heavily involved in borrowing base and other trade finance transactions in distressed scenarios.Practice head(s):
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Key clients
Stemcor
Metinvest
Transport finance and leasing Tier 1
Led from London by the 'knowledgeable and experienced' Mario Jacovides and also able to tap into the expertise of lawyers throughout the firm's extensive global network, Allen & Overy LLP is well-positioned to provide a comprehensive service. It advises lenders, lessors, operators and funds across the spectrum of cross-border transportation asset finance matters. It is best known for its prowess within the aviation sector, where its ability to handle highly structured deals at the top end of the market differentiates it from many of its peers. 'Exceptional' aviation finance head Paul Nelson 'has deep knowledge across an array of financing structures' and regularly takes the lead on the most sophisticated and often groundbreaking mandates in the market, including his recent advice to KEB Hana Bank on its first Islamic finance transaction of aviation assets and first financing for Kuwait Airways. Harry Upcott has 'first-rate expertise across the spectrum of aircraft leasing and financing issues', including as they relate to tax-based debt and leasing structures, as well as portfolio trading and financings. While he also handles aviation deals, the 'thorough, measured and inventive' Kevin Young is best known for his financing of shipping assets, particularly on behalf of private equity funds. Jonathan Bevan leads on the rail side.
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Testimonials
‘Paul Nelson & Evgenia Erakhtina have been absolutely fantastic legal partners in closing several unique and complex aircraft financing transactions. Paul has also provided exceptional service by going over and beyond the scope of work in some cases and providing advice on transactions which may not necessarily be mandated. They have remained available at all odd hours and have turned around documents very quickly noting the urgency in some cases. I would highly recommend these individuals at A&O.’
‘Paul Nelson has put together a large, dedicated team in their work for us. This has allowed for quick, efficient work on transactions. He has deep knowledge in the aviation finance market including with respect to the array of financing structures. He provides useful guidance for us in financings and in restructuring and enforcement work.’
Key clients
British Airways
Cargolux
First Abu Dhabi Bank
AFIC Insurance
Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank
Falko
Cerberus
Oakhill
GECAS
Royal Air Maroc
Export Credit Agency (including BPI, UKEF, SACE and Euler Hermes)
Societe Generale
BNPP
Malaysian Airlines
DAE
YAMAL
Citibank
LOT Polish Airlines
Telesat
Aurun Leasing
Bank Hapoalim
AMCK
Water Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP’s team has a well-established position in the water sector and sits as part of the firm’s global infrastructure group allowing it to draw on specialists in a wide range of areas covering waste and wastewater projects. The group’s recent workload includes a number of financing matters where practice head Tim Conduit, who has vast experience in bond, bank and institutional debt markets, is the key name.
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Testimonials
‘Compares very well with other Magic Circle firms.‘
‘Always reliable and available. They’re all excellent professionals.‘
Key clients
John Laing Infrastructure Fund
Department for Transport (DfT) and HM Treasury
OTPP, AimCo and Wren House Infrastructure Management
IFM Investors
3i
Equitix
DWS
Macquarie Capital | Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets │ Green Investment Group
Borealis │ OMERS Infrastructure
Anglian Water
Thames Water
CDPQ
NatWest
ING
Commercial litigation: premium Tier 2
The commercial litigation team at Allen & Overy LLP offers 'sharp, focused and reliable' advice across a range of disputes work and is adept at navigating the crossover between commercial litigation and investigations. With the ability to leverage the expertise of its non-contentious colleagues and international network, the team deploys an integrated approach in complex and cross-jurisdictional disputes. Calum Burnett, who specialises in contentious regulatory issues, leads a team which includes Lawson Caisley, who counts fraud and white-collar crime, cybersecurity breaches and shareholder disputes among his areas of expertise, and Jonathan Hitchin who focuses on disputes arising from corporate transactions and insolvency. Alice Englehart has a breadth of expertise in commercial litigation, employment tribunal proceedings, and internal investigations while Richard Farnhill and senior associate Maeve Hanna are highlighted for their energy and technology sector expertise respectively. Counsel Sarah Garvey who has particular EU law and state immunity expertise and Helen Biggin (who was also recently promoted to counsel) are other names to note.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Lawson Caisley is an excellent relationship partner, pro-active and keen to understand the issues we face.‘
‘Maeve Hanna made a real impact, and her knowledge of what we do and how we work makes her invaluable when we need some one who can work hand in glove with us.‘
‘The service is personal – each and every member of the team truly understands and seeks to serve the needs of the client in the round.‘
‘Alice Englehart is in a class of her own. Her mastery of the law and its advocacy is matched with an unrivalled human empathy that helps her identify and secure solutions that are durable. In the white collar sphere, the approach and results of Jonathan Hitchin speak for themselves. Top honours all around.‘
‘The team are very reassuring – you can give instructions and know you will receive an excellent piece of work. As people they are also very personable and easy to get on with, so you feel as though you’re a person not a client.‘
‘Jonathan Hitchin is a real tiger of a litigator – definitely one you want on your side. Associate Rachel Donelan is destined for greatness.‘
‘Always available, sharp, focused and reliable.’
‘Lawson Caisley and associate Sophie Orwell are outstanding to work with, showing real dedication and talent in delivering results.‘
‘Susanna Charlwood is an excellent partner who is on top of all of the detail of a case. She is a true force of nature, with an incredible work ethic and is a true role model. Her grasp of the facts and legal knowledge is top notch and she always gets on top of matters very quickly’.
Key clients
Rangers Football Club
The Prudential Assurance Company Limited
The European Union
Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 2
The real estate practice at Allen & Overy LLP is home to a team of ‘very knowledgeable and rounded partners’. For investment work, the team is highly regarded for its advice on the buying, selling and lease-back of assets in addition to cross-border transaction structuring and the establishment of investment vehicles. Practice head Imogen Moss brings distinguished expertise in relation to complex offshore structures and joint ventures and also specialises in major headquarter lettings; her team works closely with the wider firm's construction, planning and litigation specialists to support at all stage of development projects. Christopher Woolf, vastly experienced in UK and European investments, is noted for offering 'innovative solutions' while counsel Emma Willoughby's broad practice which spans the retail, office and industrial sectors.
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Testimonials
‘The team is differentiated by their deep knowledge of all real estate aspects. The team is highly attentive and available to manage fast moving situations. The team is well tied into different constituencies of London’s real estate market.’
‘Imogen Moss is a dealmaker who is passionate to help her clients succeed at every turn. She is able to assess and give sage advice on the largest of issues, and equally able to go deep on any detail that arises. She has a deep bench of loyal team members working for her.’
‘A great firm, with competitive pricing compared to some of the other big names. Very knowledgeable and rounded partners. Very good integration across the various disciplines, with the ability to come across as a one-stop shop.’
‘Nick Saner and Chris Woolf are both fantastic lawyers; very commercial and interested in coming up with innovative solutions whilst still protecting their clients’ interests.’
Commercial property: investment Tier 2
The real estate practice at Allen & Overy LLP is home to a team of ‘very knowledgeable and rounded partners’. For investment work, the team is highly regarded for its advice on the buying, selling and lease-back of assets in addition to cross-border transaction structuring and the establishment of investment vehicles. Practice head Imogen Moss brings distinguished expertise in relation to complex offshore structures and joint ventures and also specialises in major headquarter lettings; her team works closely with the wider firm's construction, planning and litigation specialists to support at all stage of development projects. Christopher Woolf, vastly experienced in UK and European investments, is noted for offering 'innovative solutions' while counsel Emma Willoughby's broad practice which spans the retail, office and industrial sectors.
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Testimonials
‘The team is differentiated by their deep knowledge of all real estate aspects. The team is highly attentive and available to manage fast moving situations. The team is well tied into different constituencies of London’s real estate market.’
‘Imogen Moss is a dealmaker who is passionate to help her clients succeed at every turn. She is able to assess and give sage advice on the largest of issues, and equally able to go deep on any detail that arises. She has a deep bench of loyal team members working for her.’
‘A great firm, with competitive pricing compared to some of the other big names. Very knowledgeable and rounded partners. Very good integration across the various disciplines, with the ability to come across as a one-stop shop.’
‘Nick Saner and Chris Woolf are both fantastic lawyers; very commercial and interested in coming up with innovative solutions whilst still protecting their clients’ interests.’
Corporate tax Tier 2
The tax team at Allen & Overy LLP has a first-rate reputation in financial tax matters, and it also has a strong capability in corporate and real estate tax work. Although transactional work comprises a large part of the practice, the team is also well-versed in standalone advisory matters. Vimal Tilakapala, who heads up the UK tax practice, is well-known for his strengths in domestic and international finance-related tax. Lydia Challen is 'a true genius in the tax world' and specialises in M&A, corporate reorganisations and private equity tax. Christopher Harrison, who is the head of the global tax practice, predominantly advises financial institutions on banking tax and tax-related financing transactions.
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Testimonials
‘My experience with the A&O tax team has always been very positive, they are a very practical and pragmatic team to supplement excellent technical ability and I always enjoy working with the team there.’
‘Lydia Challen is a true genius in the world of tax and always someone you want on your side of the table and on your team.’
Key clients
Barclays
BNP Paribas
Citi
Credit Suisse
Deutsche Bank
Goldman Sachs
HSBC
Morgan Stanley
Quilter Plc.
Royal Bank of Scotland
Société Générale
UBS A.G..
Coventry Building Society
Santander
Lloyds
Marks & Spencer
Worldpay
WPP
Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP's practice is led by Jane Finlayson-Brown and Nigel Parker, who are both well regarded in the data protection and privacy space. Finlayson-Brown is 'an expert in data privacy law', while Parker is able to combine 'outstanding technical knowledge with great commercial and common sense.' The team advises clients on a wide range of key issues including data protection compliance matters, data ethics, big data work and adtech mandates. The firm is notably active in the retail, hospitality, financial services and life sciences sectors.Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The team is very knowledgeable about data privacy matters. The advice provided is very practical and business friendly.’
‘The team have strength in depth, and are responsive to queries and requests to instruct. They have worked with us for many years so have in depth understanding of our operations, which is enormously helpful.’
‘I work a lot with Jane Finlayson-Brown. Jane is an expert in data privacy law and I really appreciate her guidance. She is extremely service oriented.’
‘Nigel Parker combines outstanding technical knowledge with great commercial and common sense. He provides pragmatic and commercial advice and is always available when you need him.’
‘We work particularly closely with Jane Finlayson Brown. Jane is helpful and responsive and understands our business.’
Key clients
Co-operative Group
Four Seasons Hotels
GSK
News UK
HP
Photobox
Worldpay
Bank of Ireland
Booking.com
Royal Mail
Axis Bank
Bank of America
Employee share schemes Tier 2
The share schemes and incentives practice at Allen & Overy LLP is headed by Paul McCarthy and offers advice on all aspects of share plans, including complex cross-border issues. Comprehensive advice is offered to clients by drawing on the magic circle firm's full-service global offering, working together with the firm's local tax, securities, employment, corporate and regulatory lawyers when necessary. The team has advised on share plans in over 75 countries, ranging from Azerbaijan to Uruguay, and has seen some significant activity relating to both the domestic and international M&A market over the last year, working on a number of large high-profile acquisitions and disposals. The firm's particular expertise in the financial services sector means financial institution clients regularly turn to the team for strategic advice on sensitive, high-risk remuneration issues and for help navigating regulatory frameworks.
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Testimonials
‘There’s not been a question or issue presented to A&O by my team that has not been dealt with quickly and succinctly and with the appropriate level of background to ensure that I can act on the matter with the fullest of confidence.’
‘The whole team strikes an excellent balance between pragmatically helping us achieve the outcomes we desire without us worrying that we are doing is incorrect and/or outside of best practice.’
Key clients
Intertek plc
Network International Holdings plc
DWF Group plc
Greensill Capital
JP Morgan Chase Bank
Hiscox plc
Wm Morrison Supermarkets plc
WPP plc
Marks & Spencer plc
BT plc
Quilter plc
Man Group
Prudential Financial Inc
SIG plc
Sage Group plc
TT Electronics plc
Associated British Foods plc
TP ICAP plc
IWG plc
Nationwide Building Society
Liberty Global Inc
21st Century Fox
Imperial brands
Reckitt Benckiser plc
EU and competition Tier 2
The ‘effective’ and ‘dedicated’ competition law team at Allen & Overy LLP ‘provides the full package of services’, advising on merger control and behavioural issues, market investigations and state aid. In light of the regulator’s expanding focus on national security concerns and consumer protection considerations, the team is increasingly being instructed in relation to foreign investments and antitrust work in these areas. A&O's high profile client base includes corporations, public sector bodies and banks, with the firm's experience spanning sectors including TMT, energy and infrastructure, and financial services, among others. Mark Friend leads the UK antitrust group, where Alasdair Balfour, Philip Mansfield, Dominic Long and counsel Thomas Masterman are also standout practitioners.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘Responsiveness, high quality, thoroughness, reliability – Allen & Overy provides the full package of services in competition law.‘
‘Excellent technical knowledge, coupled with an ability to quickly and seamlessly understand the client’s business and grasp the key issues from a competition or antitrust point of view.‘
‘The team is incredibly effective, dedicated and a joy to work with.’
‘Excellent team that provides clear advice at each step of the process. Like many lawyers in this space, the team is extremely knowledgeable about the law and emerging trends; what distinguishes them is their ability to explain complex law in a straightforward manner and to provide very practical and actionable advice.‘
‘Mark Friend is a deep thinker – extremely experienced, with a great grasp of relevant case law.‘
‘Dominic Long is very smart, energetic and highly committed to fulfilling clients’ needs. I value his ability to distinguish between theoretical and real risks, as applicable in the context of my company. He puts a lot of thought into his advice and it is clear that it is tailored for our specific situation.‘
‘Counsel Thomas Masterman is a superb competition lawyer. Technically, he is very strong, but more importantly for us, he also has the ability to apply his knowledge to the specific commercial context and discern what the real risk is for the client. He quickly became familiar with the competition considerations applicable to our business and provided tailored, practical advice that adds real value to our decision-making.‘
Key clients
21st Century Fox
Refinitiv
Hitachi
Scania
Scottish Power
Marks and Spencer
News Corp / News UK
Direct Line Group
WPP
Qatar Petroleum
Netflix
Citibank
AP Moller Maersk
BTG
Reckitt Benckiser
Lloyds Banking Group
Walgreens Boots Alliance
HP Inc
Accenture
BT
ExxonMobil
BAE Systems
GSK
Mubadala Investment Company PJSC
Veon
Deutsche Bank AG
BNY Mellon
Severn Trent
Micron
The Blackstone Group
Edenred Fleet and Mobility SAS
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
Gate Gourmet
Endemol Shine Group
UK Finance
Standard Chartered Bank
Eaton Towers
Grünenthal
Symantec
Alipay
Majestic Wines
Seagate
Qatargas
Brookfield Asset Management
Cisco
Lufthansa
Macquarie
Iceland
Vue Cinemas
Total
Shell
AMP Capital
Sky
Earthport
Aviva
Cobham
Quilter
Credit Suisse
Consort Medical
Cityjet
Omers
IFM
Sirius
Virgin Money
The Gym Group
PIF
Bridge
Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals) Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP is continuing to build its profile in the white collar space following its 2018 recruitment of criminal defence lawyer Eve Giles. Giles, who heads the practice, has extensive experience of fraud, market abuse and extradition matters, with the broader practice now able to advice on a range of financial crime matters, as well as both domestic and international investigations. The team is able to call on support from its global network of offices, providing a holistic approach to multi-jurisdictional matters. It has recently acted in cases involving tax fraud, money laundering, insider dealing, market abuse, anti-bribery and corruption, data protection, cybercrime and investigations that have been brought in light of the #me too movement.
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Testimonials
‘Eve Giles has a very strong real crime/fraud background’.
‘Eve Giles is very sympathetic and yet gritty’.
‘The resources and reassurance of the Magic Circle, combined with genuine real world white-collar litigation experience and judgment’.
‘A top-tier firm in this field with a depth of understanding and skill in this market’.
‘Eve Giles pursues an in-depth analysis of her cases which is almost unparalleled in the market, and which allows her to find possible arguments or solutions that other lawyers miss’.
‘Eve is one of the best fraud/corruption and general criminal lawyers in the business’.
‘Eve Giles is calm, thorough and utterly committed to her clients’ interests’.
‘Eve’s knowledge of blue-chip civil litigation is invaluable for her white-collar clients, given the regular cross-over of issues’.
Key clients
Individual in the SFO’s investigation into G4S
Individual in the SFO’s investigation into Rio Tinto
High yield Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP is the most prominent UK-headquartered law firm in the European high-yield market, with a growing presence in high-value deals for both arrangers and managers. With a number of high-yield partners and more US-qualified partners in London who are involved in the practice as needed, it has a deep bench of talent led by vastly experienced partner and global head of high yield Kevin Muzilla. He has practised in the European high-yield market since its inception and has extensive experience in advising underwriters, financial sponsors and corporate issuers. The practice is closely integrated with the firm's market-leading banking, leveraged finance, debt capital markets, corporate and restructuring groups, enabling it to cover all aspects of the capital structure including cross-over credits and emerging market high-yield transactions. Matthias Baudisch, Jeanette Cruz, and John Kicken all stand out for bond issuance, leveraged finance and acquisition finance.
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Key clients
House of HR
Vue International
Intralot
Metinvest
SGL Carbon
IHO Holdings
Perstorp/PAI Partners
Blackstone
KCA Deutag
Sarens
Insurance: corporate and regulatory Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP’s insurance practice acts for insurers and reinsurers on the corporate and regulatory sides of non-contentious insurance mandates, with a focus on life insurance matters. The group's work in this area encompasses transactions, many of which have cross-border elements, as well as some of the largest longevity swaps and longevity reinsurance agreements in the market. On the regulatory side, the practice is engaged in advising clients on Solvency II matters. Practice head Philip Jarvis is global head of insurance and has all-round experience in the field, while Kate McInerney, who became a partner in mid-2019 and was previously seconded to the Financial Conduct Authority, has expertise in matters related to Solvency II.
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Testimonials
‘The senior lawyers in the A&O corporate insurance team are knowledgeable and bright but what marks them apart is that, in our experience, unlike most other corporate insurance teams in the City, they do not view themselves as implementors of others’ decisions but they actively and constructively contribute to the discussion and debate, albeit that they recognise the primacy of the client to make decisions. They actively seek to identify not just risk but also opportunity and bring clear thinking on not just technical but also strategic issues.’
‘Philip Jarvis – I particularly value Philip’s input and insight because he doesn’t just identify risks but proactively looks to help us factor them into our assessment by suggesting mitigation strategies or ensuring that the risks involved are well understood and so can be appropriately priced. That sort of contribution is not the norm.’
Key clients
Prudential
Aviva
Aegon / Scottish Equitable
Athene
Allianz
Rothesay Life
Lloyds Banking Group Pensions Trustees Ltd
Quilter
VIVAT
MS&AD Insurance Group
International arbitration Tier 2
The dedicated, long-established, London-based arbitration team at Allen & Overy LLP fields 'brilliant and utterly professional lawyers, who are always focused on the underlying commercial issues and best interests of the client'. The practice handles both commercial and investor-state arbitrations; its key features include advocacy expertise, arbitration-related litigation and energy disputes work, where gas price arbitration expert and co-international arbitration group head Mark Levy QC and James Freeman are notable names. The group is also active in arbitrations involving banking, finance and complex financial products, as well as disputes surrounding infrastructure and construction projects and IP disputes. Other experienced partners include Kate Davies and Suzanne Spears, while Naomi Briercliffe and Guled Yusuf were promoted to counsel in 2020, and Sunil Mawkin is the senior associate to note. Former international arbitration head Richard Smith retired from the partnership in 2019.
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Testimonials
‘The sheer calmness and professionalism of the team was just outstanding. They were able to quickly identify the key legal issues in a complex dispute in a difficult territory, and provided full confidence to us as the client.’
‘Mark Levy and Tomasz Hara make a great team on price review matters with complementary skills and personalities.Very knowledgeable in their specialism and very client-friendly. They clearly enjoy what they do.’
‘The sheer attention to detail was extraordinary, and a clear advantage against the respondent.’
‘Mark Levy is very smart, sophisticated and pleasant. Naomi Briercliffe is intelligent and hard working.’
‘Brilliant lawyers but always focused on the underlying commercial issues and on best interest of the client. Utterly professional and reliable.’
‘Mark Levy – unrivalled ability to focus on key issues, identify risks. Very commercial. Brilliant communicator, with client and at hearings.’
‘The team is very professional, detail-oriented, good at strategy planning and problem solving. Cost-efficient as well.’
‘James Freeman – exceptionally smart and clear, focused on getting the right answer and communicating it to client. Highly professional.’
Key clients
International Finance Corporation
OPEC Fund for International Development
South Stream
Gazprom
Kempinski Hotels
International Swaps & Derivatives Association
Government of Pakistan
Reliance Industries
Shell
BG
Manchester United
Life sciences and healthcare Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP's team demonstrates 'a high degree of business acumen combined with legal expertise'. Jim Ford is the global co-head of the life sciences and healthcare sector groups and he also leads the London IP practice. His expertise encompasses a wide range of IP-related transactions. Marjan Noor is well known for her successful IP litigation practice; she has handled a number of the most complex cases involving blockbuster drugs or biologics. On the transactional side, Matthew Appleton’s varied workload includes handling M&A, joint ventures and restructurings for life sciences and healthcare companies. Partners Neville Cordell and Marc Döring, and senior associate Rafi Allos, are notable patent litigators in the team. Allos is also highly-rated for his regulatory expertise.
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Testimonials
‘The standard of the work carried out by the A&O team is the absolute highest. They are working at the highest level for the busiest and most interesting of clients. The life sciences patents practice here, headed by the wonderful Marjan Noor, is second to none.’
‘The entire team has been extraordinarily responsive to every request. There is a high degree of business acumen combined with legal expertise that is difficult to be found otherwise in that specific combination. The global approach of the entire firm makes the client benefit from international synergy in multi-national litigation matters.’
‘Marjan Noor is THE life sciences litigator. She is the complete package: a skilled and experienced tactician; a thoughtful and intelligent lawyer; and a warm and thoroughly human client adviser.’
‘Rafi Allos – is a litigator wise beyond his years. Sharp and thorough with an extraordinary command of factual detail; he is already making waves and surely destined for great things.’
‘Rafi Alos has managed to become a trusted business and legal advisor in essentially no time, which is hard to be found amongst lawyers. One can truly judge his combined legal and business assessment.’
‘Marc Doring is one of the few individuals that you can be sure that any word spoken by him could be submitted and printed right away. He hardly leaves room for any improvement in his professional assessment and the conclusions and augmentations derived therefrom.’
Key clients
Grünenthal
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals
Pfizer
Exscientia
Almac
BTG
Sanofi
Zimmer Biomet
Premaitha Health plc (now Yourgene Health)
Circassia
M&A: upper mid-market and premium deals, £500m+ Tier 2
With a 200-lawyer strong corporate practice worldwide, Allen & Overy LLP has the resources to act on some of the market's highest profile transactions. As well as large public takeovers, the practice also undertakes a significant number of private M&A deals and advises roughly a quarter of FTSE 100 companies in some capacity. The firm is well placed to advise on cross-border transactions across multiple jurisdictions, as demonstrated by a role advising WPP on a disposal involving 90 jurisdictions. Dominic Morris leads the London corporate practice and has significant experience acting on domestic and international mergers and acquisitions, public takeover bids, privatisations, joint ventures and equity offerings. Corporate finance partner David Broadley is a name to note in the practice, having worked on a wide range of ECM transactions, acting for both issuers and underwriters. The team lost two partners to US rival Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP , with both George Knighton and Simon Toms leaving to join the firm.
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Testimonials
‘We used A&O on a multinational class 1 disposal. The lawyers are first rate and the size and scale of the firm meant that we did not struggle for resource, even through a very tight final weekend when we were running two deal teams and two bidders.‘
‘Seamless cross-functional expertise provided by the London team, with the highest service level paired with industry knowledge. Truly integrated team.‘
‘Pragmatic legal advise tailored to international environment with considerable industry expertise. Matthew Appleton is focusing specifically on what really matters for the business of his client far beyond legal expertise.‘
‘Team has real bench strength in UK public M&A.’
‘Seth Jones is a leading public M&A lawyer. Clients like his approachable manner and thoughtful approach. Harriet Stephenson also highly rated.‘
Key clients
WPP plc
Refinitiv
Marks & Spencer plc
Imperial Brands plc
BT plc
Quilter plc
Man Group
RBS plc
Tesco plc
Prudential plc
GSK plc
Aviva plc
SIG plc
Sage Group plc
TT Electronics plc
Associated British Foods plc
TP ICAP plc
Reckitt Benckiser plc
Royal Dutch Shell plc
21st Century Fox
Mining and minerals Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP has a global mining practice, which advises a range of businesses encompassing mining, smelting, refining, trading and semi-manufacturing companies. The practice has M&A and financing expertise across multiple key jurisdictions. Dominic Morris is a key point of contact.
Rail Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP provides advice on complex, cross-border, and high-value rail transactions, with a breadth of expertise extending to infrastructure, concessions, and rolling stock matters. It frequently acts for project sponsors, lessors, financiers, and train operating companies, as well as governments, and manufacturers. Department head Jonathan Bevan is an expert in infrastructure and transport financings, as well as matters relating to development, construction, PPPs, and construction, while partner Tim Conduit focuses on capital market financings.
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Testimonials
‘Jonathan Bevan and Tim Conduit are both extremely knowledgeable about all rail matters and financing structures. They are always there to support us when we need them.’
Real estate funds Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP provides a comprehensive service to a wide variety of market participants. Among its roster of high-calibre, longstanding clients are the largest institutional and private equity real estate sponsors, sovereign wealth funds and pension schemes. Its team's wide-ranging experience includes handling the structuring and formation of funds and joint venture vehicles, ongoing fund portfolio management issues, investments into funds, and the sale and purchase of secondary fund interests. The group also has expertise in the regulatory issues impacting the real estate funds sphere. Another significant factor in the London team's ability to deliver top advice is its access to a vast pool of resources across the firm's global network, including practitioners based in Luxembourg. Matthew Huggett, Nick Williams and Pavel Shevtsov co-head the practice. Paul Sampson and Dominic Von Wulffen were recently promoted to the partnership, and senior associate Emma Danforth is another key figure.
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Testimonials
‘The team drove this project to completion efficiently and effectively. They were quick, knowledgeable and reliable and I trusted we were in good hands.‘
‘Matthew Huggett was spectacular to work with – quick, commercial, patient, clearly knowledgeable about his craft and flexible in finding solutions to any matter which arose.‘
‘The A&O team as a whole are excellent and the quality of work they deliver is very high. Matters are always resourced well and partner engagement is there when required. The end product is always well-considered and their industry/market knowledge is a useful resource.‘
‘Nick Williams (partner) is very knowledgeable of the real estate sector and Emma Danforth (senior associate) is incredibly detail-focused, whilst remaining practical/commercial.‘
Key clients
Nuveen Management Company
Hines
Aviva Investors
CQS
Cairn Capital
International Finance Corporation
Electra Private Equity
Macquarie
Meyer Bergman
Schroders
Goodman
M&G
Cain International
Corestate
Social housing: finance Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP specialises in advising on capital markets issues in the social housing space; it has advised on the vast majority of listed bond issues in the sector over the last decade. Consultant Geoff Fuller has extensive experience of advising on debt capital markets issuance and derivatives and structured finance work. Fuller worked with senior associate Amanda Lemesle Adams to advise on 14 out of the 19 listed bond issues in the sector in 2019. Elsewhere, the broader practice covers derivatives and structured finance work. Greg Brown acts for both lenders and borrowers primarily in the context of group financing structures.
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Testimonials
‘Speed, accuracy, efficiency, knowledge and advice.
Geoff Fuller and James Avison are a superb team that always deliver within set timeframe and fees. Their knowledge is second to none.’
‘A&O real estate can be trusted to get the job done particularly on social housing bonds, which often have tight timescales and thousands of units. The team are highly experienced and are fully engaged at all times.
Kathryn Witton is my go-to lawyer – knowledgeable, experienced and always delivers. Brilliant person to have on a deal team‘
Key clients
Clarion Housing Group
Prudential Trustee Company Limited
Places for People Group
Royal Bank of Canada
Banco Santander SA
Tax litigation and investigations Tier 2
Allen & Overy LLP's contentious tax practice spans pre-litigation advice, administrative proceedings, tax litigation and HMRC investigations. Drawing on the firm's wider expertise in the area, the group stands out for handling financial tax disputes for banks and financial institutions. It is also regularly instructed in corporate and real estate tax disputes, as well as international tax investigations. Head of UK tax Vimal Tilakapala leads the team. Charles Yorke has 'outstanding commitment and involvement in the case and an excellent grasp of the technical issues', Christopher Harrison is another financial tax expert with disputes experience, while Lydia Challen is a corporate tax expert.
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Testimonials
‘A team of good lawyers with considerable technical expertise and good client relationships.’
‘The team is bright and exceptionally hard working, even at very short notice. They have an excellent grip of the facts and they are focused on ensuring that all aspects of the litigation runs smoothly. ‘
‘Charles Yorke has outstanding commitment and involvement in the case and an excellent grasp of the technical issues.’
Key clients
Investec
PWC
Lloyds
Administrative and public law Tier 3
Corporate clients in the energy, TMT and financial services sectors retain Allen & Overy LLP’s public law practice for the full breadth of public and administrative law advisory services, with an emphasis on regulatory requirements affecting global supply chains. Practice head Andrew Denny and senior associate Maeve Hanna regularly represent NGOs and independent charities in high-profile interventions; recent instructions included handling High Court applications against the Secretary of State’s policy on immigration bail. Working closely with the public procurement department, the team also represents utilities companies and regulated entities in judicial review proceedings concerning transport and energy projects.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘An excellent team. Highly responsive and committed to providing detailed but clear advice.‘
‘The practice is unique in that it provides a hands on approach and always provides practical, sensible and commercially sound advice. They also try hard to understand your specific requirements as a client and add value throughout, contemplating wider issues and ensuring they are dealt with.‘
‘Andrew Denny has broad experience of public law issues, understanding legal implications of matters for both his clients and for the law in general. He ensures his clients have a good understanding of the advice that is delivered to them.‘
‘Maeve Hanna is astute and retains an excellent understanding and awareness of a client’s history so as to be able to deliver advice that bears on a broad range of issues relating to a client’s background and concerns.‘
Key clients
The RiverLinx Consortium
Trustee of the BT Pension Scheme
Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
The AIRE Centre
Bail for Immigration Detainees
Competition litigation Tier 3
Allen & Overy LLP’s competition litigation group has a strong track record representing defendants in high-profile cartel investigations and related private damages cases. Complementing the team in London is its access to a network of offices in Asia, Europe and the US. It places a particular emphasis on cutting-edge cases in the financial services and IP sectors, among others. Mark Friend leads the London-based antitrust group. Jonathan Hitchin, who is ‘a real tiger of a litigator’, is dual-qualified to practise in England & Wales and Hong Kong.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
‘The team is incredibly effective and a joy to work with.’
‘Jonathan Hitchin is a real tiger of a litigator – definitely one you want on your side.’
‘Mark Friend is immensely skilled and experienced in competition and regulatory matters, a real deep thinker.’
‘Associate Rachel Donelan is destined for greatness.’
Key clients
Scania
Citibank
BNY Mellon
Micron
441 Trust Company
21st Century Fox
Recticel
Construction: non-contentious Tier 3
Allen & Overy LLP's team is highly active in the infrastructure and energy sectors and is praised for being 'pragmatic' and 'able to translate business needs into legal concepts'. Troy Edwards leads the practice group; he has expertise in both privately and publicly financed infrastructure projects, working with sponsors, governments and lenders. Mark Walker is also of note within the team - he is active across the UK, Europe and the Middle East on energy and infrastructure construction matters.
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‘Always available, looking for solutions. Pragmatic, able to translate business needs into legal concepts.’
Key clients
Trans Adriatic Pipeline AG
TAPI Pipeline Company Limited
Galpek Ltd
Macquarie
Sizewell C (EDF Group)
Tolaram Group
SITA
Sirius Minerals
Uniper UK Ltd
International business reorganisations Tier 3
Allen & Overy LLP uses its substantial experience in corporate and M&A work to handle complex multi-jurisdictional mandates spanning sales and acquisitions, spin offs, carve outs and international reorganisations. Alongside its notable global legal capacity, the firm also leverages its advanced delivery and solutions offering to assist with key matters; this includes its global resourcing platform for consultants, a dedicated legal project management office and technology solutions. Gillian Holgate is the lead practitioner for international business reorganisations and is well supported by counsel Rakesh Rathod. The pair focus primarily on spin offs, demergers, carve outs and group reorganisations. Individuals from the wider corporate group also contribute to the work both from the London office and the firm’s significant global network.
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Testimonials
‘Everyone on the A&O team is professional, helpful and easy to work with. They are knowledgeable from day one about your company and the reorganization being worked on. A&O team led my company through two reorganizations, with law firms around the world they are able to work closely with internal company teams world wide keeping us all organized and on-task.’
‘Gillian Holgate and her team are wonderful to work with. I worked with many people but those that specifically stand out are Rakesh Rathod, Samuel McDonald and Kristen Agnew. Day or night they were available to assist with whatever was needed.‘
‘Great coordination between A&O offices. High competence level across many practice areas.‘
‘Great balance between the cost and quality of the service, expertise, on-time advice.‘
Key clients
DWF group plc
WPP plc
TE Connectivity
Pentair
Mallinckrodt
nVent Electric
Thomson Reuters
IT and telecoms Tier 3
Allen & Overy LLP is active across a range of IT and telecoms matters, including work involving M&A, regulatory and commercial issues. Tom Levine leads the team and focuses on commercial, regulatory and IP matters, advising on stand-alone projects and corporate transactions. Also notable is counsel Andrew Kenning, who advises on strategic and transformational commercial agreements in the IT and telecoms sectors.
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Media and entertainment (including media finance) Tier 3
Particularly well-known for handling high-profile M&A and antitrust work in the media and entertainment sector, Allen & Overy LLP also fields a cross-department TMT team, which assists clients with a range of commercial matters (including content production, distribution and licensing, and IP issues) as well as contentious and regulatory mandates. The group includes IP litigators David Stone and Neville Cordell.Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Netflix
News Corporation / News UK
Metro-Goldwyn Mayer-Studios (MGM)
Warner Bros.
Discovery
Thomson Reuters
Virgin Media / Liberty Global
Danjaq / James Bond
Endemol Shine (pending its acquisition by Banijay)
Pensions: dispute resolution Tier 3
The 'market-leading' non-contentious pensions team at Allen & Overy LLP is headed up by Neil Bowden, who has substantive experience in liability management. More broadly, the offering is split on a 50/50 basis between employer and trustee clients and covers legal areas such as advice on major strategic decisions and high-profile rectification projects (with an emphasis on those featuring significant financial/industrial risk). A recent highlight for the firm has been representing Lloyds Banking Group Pensions Trustees against Lloyds Bank in the industry test case regarding GMP equalisation. Key personnel include Jane Higgins, who has a 'remarkable breadth of experience', the 'authoritative and very commercial' Andy Cork, and technical expert Jessica Kerslake. On the contentious side, the firm's offering includes 'very reassuring' counsel Jason Shaw. He has proficiency in litigation involving the rectification of documents, professional negligence and claims by trustees against both administrators and advisers.
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Testimonials
‘A first-class team both in terms of individuals and depth of knowledge’.
‘Very responsive, practical and well-informed. Does not seek to maximise drama, but rather to get to the right result.’
‘The team can be trusted to produce an excellent piece of work. The advice is clear even when the matters are complex. They are also great people and treat you as a person, not a client’.
‘Jason Shaw has great command the facts, is 100% committed to the client and always calm and focused on achieving the result for the client’.
‘Jason Shaw is a pleasure to deal with’.
‘Jason Shaw is very reassuring and can be trusted to produce great work. He can make complex matters clear, and is very personable’.
Key clients
Lloyds Banking Group Pensions Trustees Limited
The Trustee of the BT Pension Scheme
The Trustee of the ICI Pension Fund
The Trustee of the Pfizer Group Pension Scheme
The Trustee of the Thomson Corporation Pension Scheme (Thomson Reuters)
RSA Insurance Group plc
Prudential Plc
The Trustee of the IHG UK Defined Contribution Pension Plan
Co-operative Group Limited
News UK
Private equity: transactions – high-value deals (£250m+) Tier 3
Allen & Overy LLP works with a number of major domestic and international private equity houses, securing a consistent flow of buyout and exit work across sectors ranging from healthcare to financial services and retail. The team regularly works alongside A&O's finance and capital markets practices to provide a full range of transactional support. Stephen Lloyd leads the team and is recognised for his strong transactional record advising PE houses, sovereign wealth funds, and other sponsors. Karan Dinamani works with key relationship clients on cross-border transactions and investments, while newly-promoted partner Peter Banks has a growing market presence internationally.
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Testimonials
‘Karan Dinamani is responsive 24/7, always on top of all the topics, with the perfect mindset that balances legal aspects and business aspects’
Responsive and focused on my needs as a client’
‘Peter Banks is commercial, experienced and pragmatic. He seeks solutions, not disputes and protects clients’ interests.’
‘A fantastic team to work with!’
Key clients
Bridgepoint
AIMCo
Apax Partners
Ardian
Blackstone
Charterhouse Capital Partners
Exponent Private Equity
PAI Partners
HIG Capital
OMERS Private Equity
Private funds (including infrastructure funds) Tier 4
Allen & Overy LLP advises asset managers and institutional investors alongside pension provider and sovereign wealth fund clients, offering integrated support across key jurisdictions. The team draws upon the firm's presence in locations such as New York, Frankfurt, and Luxembourg. Matthew Huggett advises sponsors and investors on UK and international regulatory issues alongside fund formation matters, while Nick Williams prioritises real estate, as well as advising on joint ventures. focuses on advice to financial institutions and institutional investors on EU regulatory and licensing matters.
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Testimonials
Excellent responsiveness and turnaround times; very tuned in to market practice.
The tie to the AoSphere tools is invaluable to us, and was the original reason why we looked to A&O to coordinate all our regulatory needs across the EEA for a range of private markets fund offerings.
Pavel Shevtsov and MaameYaa Kwafo-Akoto (associate) have provided us with a consistently excellent level of service and expertise. They are exceptionally hard-working, responsive and understanding of our business and our needs.
Key clients
Aviva Investors
Electra Private Equity
Macquarie
Corestate
Property litigation Tier 4
Allen & Overy LLP's strong combination of real estate and finance expertise attracts mandates from several banks and financial institutions, property investment funds, private equity houses and large corporates. The team regularly advises on contentious property investment and valuation matters, disputes arising from property developments, the Electronic Communications Code, cladding issues and retail tenant CVAs. Imogen Moss is the overall head of the real estate practice and has a transactional focus. Consultant Jane Fox-Edwards, who is the key contact for property litigation, handles landlord and tenant disputes, use of land issues and development-related litigation.
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Testimonials
‘They are a very able team and can hold their own against any other.
Jane Fox-Edwards. She is a very knowledgeable and experienced property litigator. Very thorough, very able and very commercial.’
‘Great depth of experience and expertise handling major commercial property disputes and deals.
Jane Fox-Edwards – Consultant – a consummate professional. It is a fortunate client who has Jane in their corner. Clever, practical and a great lawyer.
Lucy Grey – Senior Associate – hugely experienced and a very safe pair of hands.’
‘The team is differentiated by their deep knowledge of all RE aspects. The team is highly attentive and available to manage fast-moving situations. The team is well tied into different constituencies of London’s RE market.
Jane Fox-Edwards – A highly intelligent lawyer in every respect, able to manage the business dynamics and support with her legal intuition in a way that “get’s deals done” whilst protecting her clients. We have the highest confidence in Jane.’
‘Commercial and responsive.’
Belgium > Banking, finance and capital markets Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP has a market-leading reputation, which is underpinned by its excellent track record across a broad range of transactions. Led by Filip Tanghe, the team is a standout performer in a multitude of areas, including corporate lending (such as refinancings and recapitalisations), export finance, acquisition finance, asset-based finance, project finance, structured finance and equity and debt capital markets. Tanghe and recently promoted senior associate Dennis Lievens are advising the European Investment Bank on the €1bn financing of the Oosterweel Connection Project; this is one of the largest infrastructure projects in Belgium. In another matter, in 2018, Tanghe and counsel Greet Vanslambrouck were part of a cross-office group which acted for GeoSea Luxembourg (and its subsidiaries and associated companies) on a €121m leasing transaction connected with the client's financing for "Apollo", a self-propelled DP2 jack-up vessel. Financial regulatory advice is another cornerstone of the work undertaken by the group, whose other key members include Sylvia Kierszenbaum, Yves Van Pul and counsel Sophie Rutten. Senior associates Julie Vander Donckt and Axel de Backer are also names to note.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Pro-active/creative/knowledgeable‘
‘Greet Vanslambrouck is a pleasant person to work with. She is solution-oriented and commercially driven‘
‘Allen & Overy distinguishes itself in its attention to quality and detail‘
‘Filip Tanghe is the ultimate problem solver. He has an extensive network in the Belgian market. Greet Vanslambrouck is very experienced; we love to work with her due to her pleasant and personal approach in deals‘
Key clients
Kharis Capital Advisory Belgium
European Investment Bank
DEME Group
Waterland Private Equity Investments BV
Otary/SeaMade
Etex Group
Elia System Operator
Natixis
Rivage Investment
Gilde Equity Management
Benelux Capital Partners
Duvel Moortgat
KBC Group
BNP Paribas Fortis
ING Belgium
HSBC Belgium
Belfius Bank
Studio 100
La Lorraine Bakery
Bank Degroof Petercam
Kartesia
Argenta Spaarbank SA/NV
Singapore > Projects: foreign firms Tier 1
Allen & Overy LLP's sizeable projects team has decades of experience in advising on complex projects throughout South East Asia. While the core focus of the team remains the energy sector, including oil and gas, renewables, and waste-to-power facitilies, it is also involved in telecoms and infrastructure projects. In addition to advising on the development of projects, the team advises on financing and re-financings. Practice head Jason Humphreys has broad experience across this area, and also has general experience in banking and finance work. Scott Lovell focuses on energy, particularly LNG and gas, while Bimal Desai transferred from A&O's Dubai office in May 2019, bringing with him strong links to the oil industry.Practice head(s):
Testimonials
‘The team is made up of fantastic individuals with solid caliber, deep experience in the region who are dedicated and most importantly, pleasant to work with even under the harshest of conditions. The team can work round the clock for days on complex legal analysis and yet stay positive and inspire others to carry on and do the best. Unlike many large international firms, their team does not have the imposing “know it all” attitude that really makes working with them a lot of fun.’
Key clients
Standard Chartered
Marubeni Corporation
Edra Power
Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC)
Pertamina
Sembcorp
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG)
Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)
Sumitomo Corporation
Asian Development Bank
Allen & Overy LLP > Firm Profile
Allen & Overy is an international legal practice comprising Allen & Overy LLP and its affliated undertakings (collectively described below as ‘Allen & Overy’).
The firm: Allen & Overy is an international law firm providing legal services for global business and industry, with approximately 5,600 staff, including some 565 partners, working in 44 offices across 31 countries serving businesses, financial institutions and governments where there is a need for decisive legal advice on complex transactions. Allen & Overy is one of the few firms that can truly claim to have integrated international law, local law and U.S. law capabilities within the firm.
Allen & Overy’s legal expertise and knowledge of key players and authorities provide a tangible competitive edge for its clients, whether they are raising capital, buying or selling businesses, or restructuring for competitive reasons.
Types of work undertaken: Allen & Overy provides a full range of legal services in the following areas: banking; business reconstruction and insolvency; telecommunications; media and technology; corporate and commercial; derivative products; EC and competition law; employment, pensions and incentives law; environmental; financial services; insurance; intellectual property; international capital markets; litigation; MBOs; mergers, acquisitions and takeovers; PFI/PPP; projects and project finance; real estate (commercial); securitisation; and land tax (corporate).
Through its network of offices, Allen & Overy advises private companies, international conglomerates, governmental agencies, banks, and other financial and commercial institutions, wherever there is a need for legal advice from experienced international practitioners.
Allen & Overy has lawyers qualified in more than 30 countries, speaking 56 languages. The combination of local expertise and experience in major international transactions ensures clients receive consistent quality. Deals can be controlled around the clock if necessary and each overseas office has a support group in London comprising lawyers with experience in that particular country, able to provide backup when required.
Other offices: Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Antwerp, Bangkok, Barcelona, Beijing, Belfast, Bratislava, Brussels, Budapest, Casablanca, Dubai, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, Istanbul, Luxembourg, Madrid, Milan, Moscow, Munich, New York, Paris, Perth, Prague, Rome, São Paulo, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo, Warsaw, Washington, D.C., Yangon
Associated offices: Bucharest, Jakarta
Cooperation office: Riyadh
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Senior partner | Wim Dejonghe | ||
Managing partner | Andrew Ballheimer | ||
Asset finance | Mario Jacovides | ||
Leveraged finance | Jonathan Brownson | ||
Banking | Philip Bowden | ||
Banking | Andrew Thomas | ||
Business reconstruction and insolvency | Ian Field | ||
Corporate and commercial | Richard Browne | ||
Derivative products | David Benton | ||
EC and competition law | Mark Friend | ||
Employment | Mark Mansell | ||
Energy | Gareth Price | ||
Energy | Jeremy Parr | ||
Environmental law | Matthew Townsend | ||
Financial services | Nick Bradbury | ||
Incentives | Paul McCarthy | ||
Insurance | Philip Jarvis | ||
Intellectual property | David Stone | ||
International capital markets | David Benton | ||
International capital markets | Simon Hill | ||
Litigation | Tim House | ||
MBOs | Stephen Lloyd | ||
Mergers, acquisitions and takeovers | Richard Browne | ||
Pensions | Neil Bowden | ||
PPP/PFI | David Lee | ||
Projects and project finance | Gareth Price | ||
Real estate | Imogen Moss | ||
Securitisation | Salim Nathoo | ||
Tax (corporate) | Vimal Tilakapala | ||
Telecommunications, media and technology | Tom Levine | ||
Telecoms finance | Philip Bowden |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 181 Number of other UK fee-earners : 783Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Acquisition finance
- Bank lending: investment grade debt and syndicated loans
- Banking litigation: investment and retail
- Corporate governance
- Corporate restructuring & insolvency
- Debt capital markets
- Derivatives and structured products
- Emerging markets
- Employers
- Energy and infrastructure
- Environment
- Equity capital markets - mid-high cap
- Financial services: contentious
- Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory
- Fintech
- Fraud: civil
- Corporate restructuring and insolvency
- Commercial litigation: mid-market
- Infrastructure (PFI and PPP)
- Insurance litigation: for policyholders
- Intellectual property: patents (contentious and non-contentious)
- Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design
- Islamic finance
- Oil and gas
- Pensions (non-contentious)
- Power (including electricity, nuclear and renewables)
- Property finance
- Public international law
- Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates)
- Securitisation
- Trade finance
- Transport finance and leasing
- Water
Firm Rankings
- Commercial litigation: premium
- Commercial property: corporate occupiers
- Commercial property: investment
- Corporate tax
- Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity
- Employee share schemes
- EU and competition
- Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals)
- High yield
- Insurance: corporate and regulatory
- International arbitration
- Life sciences and healthcare
- M&A: upper mid-market and premium deals, £500m+
- Mining and minerals
- Rail
- Real estate funds
- Social housing: finance
- Tax litigation and investigations
- Administrative and public law
- Competition litigation
- Construction: non-contentious
- International business reorganisations
- IT and telecoms
- Media and entertainment (including media finance)
- Pensions: dispute resolution
- Private equity: transactions – high-value deals (£250m+)
- Private funds (including infrastructure funds)
- Property litigation