Goodwin’s experienced practice advises fund sponsors on private real estate funds spanning pan-European, regional, and single geography strategies, across a broad range of real estate asset classes and thematic strategies, including both equity and debt structures. The ‘business-oriented’ and ’proactive’ team is experienced in closed-end, evergreen and open-end funds. Practice head Justin Cornelius is engaged by fund managers to advise on the establishment and operation of unlisted closed and open-end funds. The ‘strong bench’ also includes Bhargavi Mudakavi, recognised for her expertise advising investment managers on private equity, real estate, and real estate debt fund establishment, as well as supporting institutional investors on investments in such structures. Niall Dickson focuses on the structuring, formation, and management of funds and joint ventures.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Goodwin have a strong bench of partners in both funds as well as key specialisms (such as tax and regulatory). They are proactive and practical when advising clients and combine legal advice in context and with market colour.’

  • ‘Goodwin has developed a broad client base that helps provide it with an in-depth understanding of the real estate fund management industry and any current trends. It engages high-quality team members.’

  • ‘Good technical legal knowledge and very business-oriented advice. Not afraid of taking a position.’

  • ‘Breadth of experience and client service is outstanding.’

  • ‘Bhargavi Mudakavi is a very strong junior partner and manages our matters well. She is always available and responsive and delivers on the agreed timeframe. Laura Charkin is an exceptionally good tax lawyer with a strong technical understanding but also a very pragmatic and commercial approach to application.’

  • ‘Justin Cornelius is very experienced and provides holistic advice. Adnan Bhaiji has been the driving force in making sure deliverables are delivered within the project timeline.’

Key clients

  • NREP (Urban Partners)
  • Patron
  • Frogmore
  • Kennedy Wilson
  • Global Student Accommodation
  • Cabot Properties
  • Ares Management
  • BentallGreenOak
  • ICG
  • Clearbell

Work highlights

Advised Ares Management on the structuring, fundraising and closing of its flagship opportunistic real estate equity fund, Ares European Real Estate Fund VI. The fund raised of $2.45 billion in aggregate capital.
Acting for BentallGreenOak on the fundraising and final close of its Europe IV Value Add Strategy, which has raised €1.98 billion in aggregate capital, including €1.46 billion for the fund and €520 million in co-investment capital.
Advised Patron Capital on the closing of its seventh flagship fund, raising in excess of €860 million, including more than €200 million of Patron discretionary co-investment capital for larger opportunities.

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.

Practice head

Justin Cornelius

Other key lawyers

Bhargavi Mudakavi; Niall Dickson; Laura Charkin; Adnan Bhaiji; Indy Sohal