Displaying key cross-border capabilities — especially in M&A transactions and major funding rounds —  Ropes & Gray LLP earns client praise as both ‘exceptional’ and ’highly responsive’ across international markets. The firm demonstrates particular strength in healthcare, AI, and software transactions, with notable activity on the buy-side of private equity deals. Elizabeth Todd, praised for her 'deep expertise and excellent client service', co-leads the team alongside John Newton. David Blittner is a prominent team member based in New York, while in London, Paul Armstrong primarily concentrates on growth investments mandates. Angela Becker handles leveraged buyouts, while other key figures include the ‘exceptionally talented’ Shona Ha; and the ’top-notch’ Victoria McGrath, noted for her focus on minority investment deals.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The Ropes corporate team under John Newton and Shona Ha has provided us with exceptional support over a number of years across some particularly complex projects, and has become trusted advisors that bring a depth of industry experience to the table. They are responsive, adaptable and able to readily tailor their approach, advice, and work product to the audience and business needs to ensure we are getting true value every time.’

  • ‘Shona Ha is an exceptionally talented partner with a wealth of experience to bring to the table, alongside a very sensible and pragmatic view of risk. I know I can call Shona anytime and talk through a particularly thorny issue, and get thoughtful and practical advice.’

  • ‘Exceptional team, very knowledgeable and able to provide tangible recommendations to navigate deal dynamics. Breadth of capabilities and expertise.'

  • ‘Very knowledgeable and committed: always available and very responsive. On top of things.’

  • ‘Top-notch legal advice by Victoria McGrath and her team with deep industry knowledge, which enables Victoria to act and react quickly, always being on top of any matter that arises.’

  • ‘Elizabeth Todd is an exceptional partner with deep expertise and excellent client service. She is extremely well-spoken and handles a large volume of diverse issues with ease. Charlie Shephard is an excellent attorney with a very client-focused practice. He has great expertise and resolves detailed issues quickly.’

Key clients

  • 3i
  • Advent International
  • American Industrial Partners
  • Bain Capital
  • CVC Capital
  • EQT
  • GHO Capital
  • GIC
  • HIG Capital
  • Inflexion
  • Lee Equity
  • PAI Partners

Lawyers

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.

Shona Ha

Practice head

Elizabeth Todd; John Newton

Other key lawyers

David Blittner; Paul Armstrong; Angela Becker; Shona Ha; Victoria McGrath; Dan Oates; Ciara Stratford; Phoebe Glenister-So