Praised for its deep bench and market knowledge, Kirkland & Ellis International LLP works with a wide array of sponsor clients on matters concerning fund formation, transaction structuring, liquidity and regulatory guidance. The team covers the full product range, including closed- and open-end funds, separate managed accounts, continuation funds, co-investments and joint ventures. The practice is co-led by Paul Sampson, noted for his ‘pragmatic advice’ and ’effective execution’ on fund structuring, formation and operation – including funds-of-one, joint ventures, GP-led transactions and separate managed accounts. Fellow co-chair Jonathan Tadd acts for global asset managers and mid-market clients on fund formation, structuring, and sponsor-side M&A, with experience across blind-pool and open-ended structures, co-investment and carried interest arrangements. Alex Brodkin handles complex European fundraising, while Nicole Mitchell, who joined from Macfarlanes LLP in March 2024, brings expertise in strategy, operations and markets. Louisa Cobbe, Benjamin Harding and Catherine Gokah are no longer at the firm.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They know the market, have a deep bench of very good lawyers at all levels, and they just get things done efficiently and without fuss.’
'The K&E team has a deep bench and a huge amount of experience and expertise. The team also has access to vast amounts of data, which can be crucial in determining how to proceed with key fund terms and bespoke investor requests. The team is always available to respond to questions and requests and offer its assistance in all manner of fund formation and administration matters.'
'Great knowledge of the market.'
‘Paul Sampson is at the top of his game, combining pragmatic advice and effective execution.’
'Available and proactive.'
Key clients
- Antin Infrastructure Partners
- ARDIAN
- Arrow Global
- Basalt Infrastructure Partners
- BC Partners
- Blue Owl
- Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners
- Dream Asset Management
- Edelweiss
- EQT
- GIC
- GLP (acquired by Ares)
Work highlights
Advised on the formation of GREYKITE Investment Management and on the launch and raising of its first fund, GREYKITE European Value Fund I, a €1 billion target, European-focused value-add fund.
Advised Starwood Capital on its European Real Estate Debt Finance II fund.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Jonathan Tadd; Paul Sampson
Other key lawyers
Alex Brodkin; Nicole Mitchell