A Client’s Guide to the UK Legal Profession 2012: Investment Funds

On an annual basis, Chambers & Partners conducts extensive research and analysis in compiling its objective list of talent available at the highest level of UK legal practice. Its research methodology has been independently audited and confirmed to be thorough, robust and complete.

In Chambers' 2012 review of legal talent in the area of Investment Funds, our Firm is listed among the best in the UK.

Chambers' comments:

Investment Funds: Private Equity

UK-wide Ranking: Tier 1

The Firm: This firm's private equity funds practice is consistently singled out as among the very best. One example of its recent work is its representation of Vision Capital on its funds-related work, including the launch of Vision Capital Americas.

Client Service: "They are fantastic and their international presence definitely helps. We don't want to throw lawyers at a case, we want thoughtful responses and they help us achieve that."

Commercial Awareness: "They are thoughtful and creative on how we deal with the investors. They are also brutally honest and are not afraid to disagree."

Key Individuals: Head of the team Mark Mifsud is "technically smart, on the ball and responsive." His colleague Kate Downey is "very client-friendly, technically strong and a go-to lawyer for fund manager clients." Mifsud and Downey recently worked together to advise Candover on the work that continues from the restructuring of Candover 2008 Fund. Senior partner Richard Watkins is noted for his flexibility and creative approach to client service. He advises on private equity fund structuring, carried interest, co-investment and other private fund incentive schemes. He also advises on private equity transactions including secondaries, spin-offs and mergers of private equity houses.

Reprinted with permission from Chambers UK, A Client's Guide to the UK Legal Profession 2012 — www.chambersandpartners.com.