Macfarlanes LLP fields a continually growing team active in the full array of tax matters, including advising on tax risk management, tax policy, and valuation, in addition to covering tax aspects of M&A and real estate transactions. Clients include prominent asset management and private equity firms, with demonstrable expertise in high value and multijurisdictional mandates. James McCredie leads the team, and is a specialist in private capital taxation with aptitude in fund establishment and investment structuring. Former team lead Damien Crossley remains active within the group, which additionally includes Sophie Donnithorne-Tait and Mark Baldwin, who further strengthen the group’s private capital tax offering. Jeremy Moncrieff is a key name for high value M&A, while Gregory Price covers tax issues relating to group structurings. Joe Robinson made partner in April 2024. Lawrence Parkin is a name to note.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Particularly good on tax policy and private client matters.’
- 'Damien Crossley is extremely client-centric, strong technically and super responsive. He is truly a valuable and trusted adviser, particularly for clients in the investment funds space. Florence Barnes is an associate to watch. She has a keen eye for detail, is able to skilfully handle complex topics and is wholly focussed on the client and their needs.'
- 'Macfarlanes has an excellent tax team, populated by individuals that are all technically very strong and also offer practical advice and solutions.'
- 'Jeremy Moncrief is excellent; his unflappable approach and ability to break down a problem to tackle it and to use his technical expertise to find practical solutions is unique.'
- 'The Macfarlanes corporate tax team has a very commercial approach, always ensuring they understand a transaction or request in the round rather than giving tax advice in a vacuum. They understand our risk appetite and provide advice that fits that, while highlighting other options and relative risks.'
- 'Jack Slater has an approach which quickly puts you at ease, and he will always work through a question with you in a patient and methodical manner. His communications are clear and thorough, and I always trust I am going to get the right level of service from Jack if the partner is not available.'
Key clients
- Hayfin
- Cale Street
- Preqin
- Joshua Alliance
- Evelyn Partners
- Charterhouse Capital Partners
- Duke Street Capital
- Signal Capital Partners
- Legal & General
Work highlights
Advised Hayfin on its agreement with Arctos Partners to support a management buyout of the business, acquiring British Columbia Management Corporation’s majority stake.
Advised Preqin, a leading data solutions provider on its sale to global investment manager BlackRock for £2.55bn.
Advised Evelyn Partners on the sale of its Professional Services business to funds advised by Apax Partners LLP.
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
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Lawrence Parkin
Practice head
James McCredie
Other key lawyers
Damien Crossley; Mark Baldwin; Sophie Donnithorne-Tait; Jeremy Moncrieff; Gregory Price; Alicia Thomas; Sarah Shucksmith; Lawrence Parkin; Florence Barnes; Jack Slater