Goodwin's 'best-in-class' private equity practice combines deep expertise in middle-market and growth equity transactions with a strong global presence. The firm advises sponsors and investors on structuring complex deals, fund formations, and buyouts. Helming the practice from Boston is John LeClaire, a seasoned partner valued by both financial sponsors and growth companies who rely on his advice regarding M&A, investments, and restructurings. Co-chair Brian McPeake has an extensive cross-border practice and covers a range of sectors including financial services, fintech, software and healthcare from San Francisco. New York co-head Chris Nugent underpins his transactional pedigree with skill in corporate governance, while Chris Wilson is noted for his healthcare and tech-focused practice. Joshua Klatzkin is well-regarded for his work across small-cap and mid-market buyouts and is another key name for early stage growth instructions. Amy Keller also comes recommended for her broad practice.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The Goodwin private equity team is best-in-class. They have bench-depth - there are several partners whom we trust to quarterback our transactions. They provide advice that is both technically sound and strategic. They are able to handle various types of transactions and the ability to scale to help us when many transactions move forward at the same time.'

  • ‘Josh is able to discern and/or anticipate his clients' particular concerns and tackle them thoughtfully and with urgency. With Josh, you always feel like your legal matter is in good hands. Brian McPeake combines excellent client service and sophisticated legal advice. His demeanor that instills confidence that a steady hand is at the helm.’

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Key clients

  • TA Associates Management, L.P.
  • Webster Equity Partners
  • Great Hill Partners
  • Bregal Sagemount
  • Marlin Equity Partners
  • DST Global
  • JMI Equity
  • Frazier Healthcare
  • InTandem Capital
  • Arlington Capital Partners

Work highlights

  • Advised Novo Holdings in its entry into a merger agreement with Catalent, Inc., under which Novo Holdings will acquire Catalent in an all-cash transaction valued at $16,500,000,000.
  • Advised Thoma Bravo in its acquisition of NextGen Healthcare, Inc., a leading provider of innovative healthcare technology solutions, for $1,800,000,000.
  • Advised TA Associates and Warburg Pincus, alongside the Epassi Group, on their agreement to acquire the Exercite Group, a provider of employee health and fitness benefits solutions to businesses in Germany and the Netherlands.

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.

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

John LeClaire; Brian McPeake; Chris Nugent

Other key lawyers

Chris Wilson; Joshua Klatzkin; Amy Keller