The ‘calm, considered and very talented’ team at Baker McKenzie LLP is known for providing UK tax advice to some of the largest family offices for UK resident and non-UK domiciled families. It continues to provide advice to significant institutions and other private clients at the top end of the private wealth market globally. In addition, the team enjoys a significant inflow of work from the Middle East. The focus of the group’s Middle Eastern practice is centred around ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and Bahrain. Ashley Crossley has particular experience in establishing private trust companies. Crossley is also skilled at advising on the establishment of international asset-holding structures, family offices, and tax efficient venture capital structures. Phyllis Townsend is also highly recommended.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Excellent team, very responsive and able to deal with complex scenarios and restructurings.'
‘Very good availability, the people on the team are very knowledgeable and experienced.’
‘Christopher Cook and Ashley Crossley are extremely professional and knowledgeable, available at all times, very engaged, and provide high-quality advice.’
‘Very professional and as they are able to provide cross border advice this is extremely useful.’
‘Approachable and knowledgeable in their field.’
‘We find the Baker McKenzie team competent across multiple jurisdictions, using them in South East Asia, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and the Middle East. There are very few private client firms who are able to offer this coverage with skilled lawyers in each location.'
'We really enjoy working with Baker McKenzie, they connect well and are happy to work with us as partners in a genuine team for the client. It's a great way to work!’
‘Phyllis Townsend is just great - she knows her law backwards and brings real sophistication to the table - her language skills are impressive and she has a good sense of humour - no hint of ego, just pragmatism and a highly professional approach.'
Lawyers
Hall of fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Ashley Crossley; Phyllis Townsend
Other key lawyers
Alfie Turner; Christopher Cook