Praised for its ‘extremely commercial and client-oriented’ approach, Macfarlanes LLP is engaged by a range of blue-chip corporates and ultra-wealthy individuals, for its work on high-end, often cross-border transactions. The team is particularly known for its ability to straddle corporate and private client work, regularly advising on complex acquisitions, disposals, and joint ventures across the US, Europe, and Australasia. The practice is jointly steered by the ’outstanding’ Howard Corney, who has a particular focus on private and cross-border M&A, and Jessica Adam, who is a key port of call for private equity houses, asset managers, and large financial institutions. Harry Coghill is a go-to adviser for listed companies facing complex governance issues, particularly in relation to shareholder activism.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Extremely commercial and client-oriented. I have found them to be forward-looking and spotting challenges coming down the road.’
‘Howard Corney is outstanding. Available, insightful, and gets things done. We trust him.’
'Our go-to firm for UK matters.'
'Tom Rose, who led the transaction, is exceptionally clever and thorough in his work. He is also an excellent communicator, both with the home team and in negotiations with the other side.'
Key clients
- Alchemy
- A.P. Moller Holding
- Ancala Partners LLP
- Anglo American Platinum Limited
- Argus Media
- Elta Group
- Evelyn Partners
- Hayfin
- Joshua Alliance/Falcon 24 Topco Limited
- Jupiter Asset Management
- Kennedy Wilson
- Peter Hargreaves
Work highlights
Advised Preqin Holding Limited on the sale of its entire issued share capital to an affiliate of BlackRock, Inc for £2.55bn.
Advised Evelyn Partners (ultimately controlled by Permira and Warbug Pincus) on the sale of its professional services business to funds advised by Apax Partners.
Advised Hayfin on its agreement with Arctos Partners to support a Hayfin management buyout of the business through the acquisition of BCI’s existing majority stake.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Howard Corney, Jessica Adam
Other key lawyers
Harry Coghill; Justin Hope; Tom Rose