Baker McKenzie (Gaikokuho Joint Enterprise)‘s offering assists banks, financial institutions, private equity funds and sponsors across the full spectrum of banking and finance mandates. Key areas of speciality across the team include handling acquisition, project, structured, and real estate finance transactions in both domestic and cross-border contexts. Practice head Shinichiro Kitamura is noted for his ’extensive experience in the field of acquisition finance’, and advises therein on both the borrower and lender side. Fintech sector specialist Gavin Raftery represents both Japanese and international clients on transactional and regulatory matters. Pierre Chiasson is recommended for his experience advising arrangers and lenders in project finance contexts, while Naoaki Eguchi has expertise in PFI and PPP matters. Haruhiko Ogasawara is also a name to note.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Baker McKenzie Japan team brings a unique combination of deep local market knowledge and international perspective that sets them apart from competitors. Gavin Raftery exemplifies this blend.'
'The team creates a partnership dynamic rather than a traditional client-service provider relationship.’
‘The firm is one of the earliest international firms in Japan, with a significant Bengoshi workforce. Their rooted international culture and collaboration enable them to follow the international standard as well as be best suited for cross-border transactions.’
‘Shinichiro Kitamura is the best veteran in the finance practice in Japan. He is very experienced and has extensive knowledge on both borrower and lender sides, as well as both international and domestic practices. Moreover, due to his management and teamwork skills, he can mobilise his team quickly and effectively.’
‘In terms of the breadth of global expertise, it is positioned as one of the top-tier legal firms in Japan, particularly being a highly reliable entity in cases involving collaborating with foreign private equity funds.’
‘Shinichiro Kitamura and Gavin Raferty have extensive experience in the field of acquisition finance. Their advice, backed by a wealth of knowledge accumulated through numerous cases, is extremely valuable.’
‘Baker McKenzie continues to provide high-quality legal advice and strong commercial understanding, as reflected in the calibre and cohesion of the wider team.’
‘Pierre Chiasson stands out for his clear communication, and his ability to navigate complex legal matters with confidence and clarity. He has consistently demonstrated a strong understanding of the industry and Japanese law.’
Work highlights
Advised on the financing of its JPY 510bn acquisition of PJC Investments Co., Ltd., which operates as Accordia Golf, from Fortress.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners: Bengoshi
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates: Gaiben
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Pierre Chiasson
Leading associates: Bengoshi
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Shinichiro Kitamura
Other key lawyers
Gavin Raftery; Pierre Chiasson; Naoaki Eguchi; Haruhiko Ogasawara