Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is renowned for its borrower-focused practice and global reach. The team’s deep understanding of private equity sponsors has been shaped by its activity on leveraged finance transactions. Working behalf of multiple high-profile clients, the team also assists with ESG-linked facilities, collateralised loan products, as well as other innovative deals. The team is spearheaded by Thomas Smith who has led some of the practice’s most significant transactions, including a €6bn ESG subline. Pierre Maugüé’s international perspective is welcomed on the team’s cross-border structured transactions. Within his fund finance and leverage-focused practice, Alan Davies regularly receives instructions from global private equity sponsors and lenders. Other key figures include Almas Daud and Felix Paterson, both of whom have amassed considerable experience working with the firm’s big-ticket client base.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘I work across Tom Smith on various complex NAV financings, who is a pleasure to work with and understands to fight the commercial points that matter rather than every issue at hand. A highly effective deal lawyer, and a very good collaborator in the industry, both as an adversary but also as a market participant and fellow NAV counsel. ’
- 'Almas Daud is an excellent senior associate ripe for promotion.'
- 'Felix Paterson is reasonable in his negotiation and able to see both sides of an issue.’
- 'What sets Debevoise apart is their collaborative culture. They are adept at working closely with clients and other advisors, ensuring strategies are well-aligned and integrated, which maximises the effectiveness of their legal solutions.'
‘The individuals at Debevoise & Plimpton stand out remarkably in the legal field due to their distinct qualities and expertise.'
- 'Alex Bell is a standout lawyer in fund finance. His deep understanding of complex financial structures and proactive client engagement make him an exceptional asset. Eoin Molloy and Tereza Batlova also bring vital enthusiasm and commitment to our team, enhancing our overall success.'
- 'At the helm, partner Tom Smith showcases exceptional advisory skills. His strategic guidance, underpinned by deep market insight, reliably navigates us through challenges, earning my complete trust.'
‘The team is highly commercial and well plugged into the market, often leading new initiatives in the space. There is a deep bench of talent across the team and many top performers across both the partner group and associate group. ’
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Felix Paterson
Practice head
Thomas Smith
Other key lawyers
Pierre Maugüé; Alan Davies; Almas Daud; Felix Paterson