Regularly working on both the buy and sell side of high-value private equity transactions, Latham & Watkins is routinely called upon to manage cross-border M&A and strategic investments. The firm’s corporate coverage is extensive, including complex take-privates, carve-outs, and joint ventures between sponsors and corporations. The practice is jointly led by Tom Evans and Thomas Forschbach, both of whom are key contacts for some of the firm’s leading asset management clients, while David Walker is particularly noted for his work in the sports sector. Paul Dolman concentrates on leveraged acquisitions and minority investments, while ‘exceptional negotiator’ Kem Ihenacho is noted for his track record in deals spanning a range of sectors, from entertainment to consumer goods. Mike Bond is particularly experienced in portfolio company mandates. Farah O’Brien is noted for her focus on later-stage growth investors, Linzi Thomas is highly regarded for her expertise in high-value transactions, and Huw Thomas is well regarded for his capabilities in restructuring mandates. Ross Allardice, who recently joined the team from White & Case, is an expert in joint investments and management equity arrangements.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Fantastic team to work with. They just have a knack for making things look easy. The team chemistry is second to none. Joy to work with our entire relationship team.'
- 'Kem Ihenacho is an exceptional negotiator. True trusted advisor. Flawless execution, always. Easily one of my favourite lawyers in London.'
- 'Linzi Thomas is another exceptional practitioner. Laser focused on client delivery.'
- 'Latham has built an exceptionally strong team brimming with talent from the most junior associates right up to the most senior partners. They understand client service and never fail to deliver to their own high standards.'
- 'Strong bench of partners with deep breath of knowledge and ability to navigate complex, cross-border transactions.'
- 'Katie Peek delivers technical and commercially focused advice in a user-friendly manner. Highly efficient and a safe pair of hands that you would want leading your transaction. '
Key clients
- Ares Management
- Advent International
- Astorg Partners
- BC Partners
- Blackstone
- Bridgepoint
- Brookfield
- CPP Investments
- CVC Capital Partners
- EQT
- Equistone
- Epiris
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.
Tom Evans
Farah O'Brien
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Tom Evans; Thomas Forschbach
Other key lawyers
David Walker; Paul Dolman; Kem Ihenacho; Mike Bond; Farah O’Brien; Linzi Thomas; Huw Thomas; Suneel Basson-Bhatoa; Neil Campbell; Jon Fox; Maarten Overmars; Katie Peek; Chris Cox; Michael Houlder