Simmons & Simmons is active across programmatic and standalone securitisation transactions in both the public and private markets, as well as SRT and synthetic structures, and loan-on-loan financings. Michael Lorraine is noted for his extensive experience across asset-backed structures such as securitisations, covered bonds, warehouse facilities and asset-backed lending, particularly in the speciality finance space. Consumer loan securitisations are a key area for Kathryn James, whose practice centres on public and private securitisation transactions. Further depth is provided by Amer Siddiqui, who advises on a range of asset-backed finance and securitisation matters, with a particular emphasis on residential mortgage-backed financing.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- What makes the Simmons & Simmons practice unique is its ability to operate as a genuine strategic partner rather than just an external legal advisor. While many firms possess technical expertise, this team, under Amer Siddiqui's leadership, distinguishes itself by combining top-tier legal knowledge with an innate understanding of our business objectives. They function as a true extension of our in-house team. Their advice is not delivered in a vacuum; it is commercially astute, pragmatic, and always aligned with our strategic goals.
- For our most complex and critical structured finance and securitization matters, Amer Siddiqui is, without question, our go-to legal partner, and Amer himself is a key reason for this. He has become a deeply trusted advisor to our institution. Amer is a Partner and Global Head of the Financial Institutions (FI) Sector. Amer's technical expertise in areas like asset-backed financing and securitizations is second to none. What truly sets him apart, however, is his ability to combine this deep legal knowledge with an exceptional commercial and pragmatic approach. He doesn't just identify legal risks; he proactively proposes workable, business-oriented solutions that allow us to navigate challenges effectively. His ability to stay on top of multiple workstreams and anticipate issues before they arise is invaluable and mirrors the praise he has rightly received for being 'super strong technically' and 'very commercial' over the years. Beyond his technical prowess, Amer provides a level of client service that is rare. He is calm, reassuring, and demonstrates an unwavering commitment to our objectives, making us feel that our transactions are always a top priority. This ability to build trust and provide clear, confident guidance on the most challenging matters is why we consider him an essential legal partner. He embodies the qualities of a strategic advisor who is instrumental to our success in the market.
- Michael Lorraine (partner) is a stand-out individual in structured finance and has the respect of all parties in transactions.
- Market leading and very dependable.
- We have worked closely with Kathryn James and Jen Aubry on our motor securitisation work. We've also worked with David Toole on work connected with the BBB ENABLE scheme. All have been extremely attentive and accessible - they are good at being available at short notice. We like the fact that they are directly involved, delegate as appropriate, and provide pragmatic and tailored advice. Kate, in particular, has been great at building the relationship and making sure that our initial aspirations in engaging with Simmons on securitisation work have been met.
- I feel that Simmons & Simmons has built a team that matches the provision of Magic Circle firms in terms of their knowledge of the securitisation market. They are able to give us a level of service in terms of document turnaround and attendance on calls and meetings that gives us assurance that our transaction is important to them and that we will meet our timing requirements.
Key clients
- European Investment Fund
- Citibank Europe plc
- Cynergy Bank
- British Business Bank
- StrideUp Homes Limited
- Pollen Street Capital
- TalkTalk
- Lendco
- Paratus AMC
- Close Brothers Group plc
- Atelier Finance
- Sunsave Group Ltd
Work highlights
Advised on a securitisation for EIB Group, enabling over €1 billion in SME lending through a risk-sharing agreement between EIB Group and ABN AMRO, supporting Dutch economic growth and climate transition.
Advised Cynergy Bank on its inaugural £450m RMBS securitisation, covering English law, tax and regulatory aspects, and incorporating innovative features to achieve capital relief on a revolving portfolio of buy-to-let mortgages.
Advised Legal & General on a £475m sale and securitisation of lifetime mortgage loans.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Michael Lorraine; David Toole
Other key lawyers
Kathryn James; Amer Siddiqui