Debevoise & Plimpton LLP fields a tax team which operates as an integrated part of the investment funds practice, advising on a broad range of complex tax structuring and planning mandates. The department is led by Richard Ward, who covers funds, finance, and transactional tax, and Matthew Saronson, a key contact for international tax issues. Saronson has particular expertise in relation to US tax issues. Cécile Beurrier is highlighted for her structuring and formation of private equity and debt funds, and, alongside Jennifer Wheater, has aptitude in the secondaries market. Paul Eastham advises on corporate and transactional tax matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Debevoise tax team are remarkably fast, technically astute and demonstrate excellent work ethics.’
‘Richard Ward is nothing short of a tax genius: Exceedingly smart, remarkably fast, and he remembers everything.’
‘Debevoise’s tax team is made out of brilliant people who have a very deep knowledge of the fund industry. They are in my opinion a market leader in this field. They are extremely committed, responsive and solution driven. I really appreciate working with them.’
‘Jennifer Wheater is brilliant. She is very committed and will not rest until solutions to complex issues are found. She gives very sensible and pragmatic advice.’
'Global, professional, commercial.'
Key clients
- Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
- Park Square Capital
- LGT Capital Partners
- HarbourVest Partners
- Leapfrog Investments
- Motor Fuel Group / Clayton, Dubilier & Rice
- University Pension Plan Ontario
- Fitzwalter Capital Partners
- StepStone Group
- Coller Capital
Work highlights
Representing CD&R in its bid for a controlling stake in Opella, the French-headquartered consumer healthcare company held by Sanofi. The bid values the company at c.$17 billion.
Advised Park Square in relation to tax aspects of the formation of its second European direct lending fund, European Loan Partners II (“ELP II”). ELP II and its associated vehicles closed at €3.4bn of investable capital.
Advised LGT Capital Partners (“LGT”) in relation to tax aspects of the fundraising of their third dedicated direct secondaries fund, Crown Secondaries Special Opportunities III (CSSO III), which provides liquidity solutions for private equity-owned companies.
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.
Practice head
Richard Ward; Matthew Saronson
Other key lawyers
Cécile Beurrier; Jennifer Wheater; Paul Eastham; Matthew Pincus