
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'The depth of experience is invaluable for developing tactics, understanding what the takeover panel will do, and giving our board confidence in the process.’
‘David Johnson's experience on top end M&A deals is invaluable for developing strategies on our own transactions. He has an uncanny ability to distil the complexities of English takeover laws into a language that resonates with CEOs and directors. I wouldn't contemplate doing a large M&A transaction in London without having David by my side.'
'Alex Dustan has extraordinary energy and with experience beyond his years. Destined to be one of the City's preeminent M&A lawyers.’
‘Team is market-leading in terms of public company work.’
‘We are hugely impressive by Paul Dickson and Alex Durstan; both leaders in their field.’
‘The firm has great depth and experience in the areas related to our business. If one associate has to step away, another steps in seamlessly.'
‘James Cook is lead on our transactions and he is very responsive and pragmatic and finds creative solutions to roadblocks.’
‘Simon Nicholls is an immensely impressive thought leader, combining deep technical knowledge and expertise with pragmatic judgment. Hugely credible and authoritative in high pressure situations.'
Key clients
- Allianz SE
- Ascential plc
- Aviva plc
- John Wood Group plc
- INEOS Enterprises
- Coca-Cola Europacific Partners plc
- LKQ Corp
- Next plc
- Pennon Group plc
- Redrow plc
Work highlights
- Advised Aviva plc on the acquisition of AIG Life Limited from Corebridge Financial, Inc., a quoted subsidiary of American International Group, Inc., for consideration of £460 million.
- Acted for Vodafone Group Plc in relation to a combination of their UK telecommunication business with Three UK (Vodafone will own 51%, and CK Hutchison will own 49%, of the combined business).
- Acted for Redrow in relation to a recommended all-share offer for the combination of Barratt Developments plc and Redrow, pursuant to which Barratt will acquire the entire issued and to be issued ordinary share capital of Redrow.
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.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Richard Smith; Simon Nicholls
Other key lawyers
Rebecca Cousin; Roland Turnill; Paul Dickson; Sally Wokes; Victoria MacDuff; Claire Jackson; Andrew Jolly; Robert Innes; James Cook; Harry Hecht; Alexander Dustan; David Johnson; Usman Sawar