K&L Gates LLP > London, England > Firm Profile
K&L Gates LLP Offices
ONE NEW CHANGE
LONDON
EC4M 9AF
England
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K&L Gates LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets – small-mid cap Tier 2
Praised for being ‘very attentive to client needs’ and ‘very knowledgeable on subject matter’, K&L Gates LLP is a key name in the marketplace for AIM transactions, advising complicated corporate structures, international tax and securities issues, and multiple international stock exchanges. Other defining characteristics of the practice include its focus on international cross-border work and strength advising US companies, alongside deep sector expertise in energy, mining, financial services, fintech, technology, life sciences, and real estate. Practice leader Paul Tetlow has extensive experience acting for companies, sponsors, NOMADs and brokers – particularly in the energy sector. James Green is another important contact within the group for energy and natural resources-driven work.Practice head(s):
Paul Tetlow
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very attentive to client needs. Very knowledgeable on the subject matter.’
‘James Green has been our counsel for the last 7 years, and he has always delivered.’
‘Extremely commercial, very easy to work with and brilliant service.’
‘Paul Tetlow is a very human, quick-witted and personable individual.’
Key clients
Dianomi Group PLC
Longboat Energy PLC
Panmure Gordon (UK) Limited
CML Microsystems PLC
finnCap Ltd
ProPhotonix Ltd
Cenkos Securities plc
Singer Capital Markets
Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited
Amaroq Minerals Limited
Fonix Mobile plc
Deltic Energy plc
Peel Hunt LLP
Canaccord Genuity Limited
Axonics, Inc.
Work highlights
- Advised Cenkos on the admission to AIM on Neometals Ltd.
- Advised Amaroq Minerals Ltd on its placing and subscription to raise £30 million and its listing on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market in Iceland.
- Advised long-standing client Deltic Energy PLC on its placing and open offer.
Insurance > Insurance litigation: for policyholders Tier 2
The insurance recovery and counselling team at K&L Gates LLP is led by Sarah Turpin, who navigates ‘the greatest issues with a steady hand’. It has experience assisting policyholders not only in dispute resolution but also with non-contentious advice including policy wording. The firm’s international reach supports its cross-border work in this area, including expertise regarding Bermuda Form claims, an area in which Ian Meredith specialises. The team also has experience in D&O liability, professional liability, cyber risk and property and business interruption – including claims arising from the Covid-19 lockdown. Matthew Smith has particular expertise regarding the construction industry.Practice head(s):
Sarah Turpin
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Smith; Ian Meredith; Matthew Walker; Andrew Connelly; Bilal Khattab
Testimonials
‘Sarah Turpin has the class, expertise and leadership to navigate the greatest issues with a steady hand.’
Key clients
Hyve Group plc
Republic of France
Far East Façades (UK) Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Hyve Group plc on insurance claims under an Event Cancellation insurance policy following the postponement/cancellation of a number of market leading exhibitions and events and as a result of government imposed restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Representing the Republic of France in a series of court and arbitral proceedings that arise out of the loss of the oil tanker the M/T Prestige in Nov 2002 and the resulting major oil spill.
- Representing FEFUK in two proceedings issued urgently out of the High Court’s Technology and Construction Court and Insolvency and Companies List.
Investment fund formation and management > Retail funds Tier 2
K&L Gates LLP‘s funds team acts for fund managers with the operation of both regulated and unregulated structures, including UCITS and NURS funds, with particular expertise in assisting funds domiciled in Ireland and Luxembourg in addition to the UK. The practice has also supported clients with regulatory challenges, advising on AIFMD and various ESG regimes in addition to digital assets regulation. Practice head Michelle Moran frequently liaises with UK and EU regulators on behalf of clients, whom she also assists with the authorisation and operation of retail structures. Philip Morgan is a regulatory specialist, advising on AIFMD and MiFID II in addition to ongoing Brexit-related matters, while Andrew Massey specialises in matters concerning UCITS structures.Practice head(s):
Michelle Moran
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Dimensional Fund Advisors
Federated Hermes
Independent Franchise Partners
John Hancock Financial Services
Principal Asset Management
Transport > Rail Tier 2
‘Overall K&L Gates LLP are a pleasure to work with, cost-effective and provide first class legal advice.’ Led by Matthew Smith, the team garners praise for its expertise in light rail metro and mass transit systems, in particular. It has been active advising on issues such as platform screen doors and complex systems contracts, as well as complicated signalling procurements. It is also well-placed to advise on operational railway issues and on other matters relating to rolling stock. In addition, it is skilled at advising on contracts for transmission based and communication based train control systems. Nicola Ellis is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Matthew Smith
Other key lawyers:
Nicola Ellis; Inga Hall; Daniel Lopez de Arroyabe
Testimonials
‘The team possess significant experience in contentious and non-contentious matters. It is equally adept at drafting conditions and dealing with disputes in the UK and internationally. The partner engagement is outstanding’.
‘Matthew E Smith has a vast amount of experience in rail and works for many of the major players in the sector. He is responsive and gets to the core of a dispute quickly, is a brilliant tactician who provides pragmatic advice to his clients’.
‘Matthew is equally adroit at providing non-contentious advice. He has a calm, measured and pragmatic approach’.
‘Nicola Ellis has a great eye for detail and works seamlessly with clients undertaking complex infrastructure projects. She really knows her stuff and provides excellent advice’.
‘Inga K. Hall has extensive experience in rail and gives excellent, considered advice on contentious and non-contentious matters. She understands the detail of the matter, is never flustered and works tirelessly for her clients.’
‘Overall, K&L Gates LLP are a pleasure to work with, cost-effective and provide first class legal advice’.
‘Matthew is very impressive he is clever, personable with a breadth of experience and is focussed on the best commercial outcomes for his clients, he is a valued adviser to both the internal legal team and the wider business clients’.
‘Nicola is clever and very knowledgeable, she is great at running projects and works brilliantly with the client teams and is extremely hard working. Dan is a very good lawyer with a great attention to detail’.
Key clients
Hitachi Rail Ltd
Transport for London
Crossrail Ltd
Qatar Rail
Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn Bhd (“MRT Corp”)
Tube Lines Limited
Rail for London Limited
RKH Limited
Corporate and commercial > Commercial contracts Tier 3
Luxury fashion and beauty work forms the cornerstone of the practice at K&L Gates LLP, with clients such as Coty and Gucci regularly instructing the firm on high-profile, landmark advertising, marketing and supply chain agreements. Beyond this sphere of work, the team combines strong regulatory and multi-jurisdictional capabilities to advise on distribution arrangements and compliance issues for leading tech, manufacturing and automotive names, as well as particularly prominent contractual work in the entertainment and life sciences sector – an area which Richard Dollimore is well-versed in. Practice head Catherine Adam is routinely sought out in the wake of growing e-commerce related mandates, and is well-positioned to handle the full range of commercial issues whilst acting as the key-contact to retail, fashion and beauty clients. Jennifer Marsh is singled out for her distribution, agency and reseller contractual expertise, while Arthur Artinian leverages strong IP knowledge to advise on licence reviews and disputes, global advertising campaigns, and consumer sales terms and privacy policies. Gabriela Da Costa has worked closely with Maytronics to guide them through updating their distribution and reseller commercial terms, and was recently promoted to partner. Other individuals to note are associate Georgina Rigg, who has been very active supporting the full wealth of practice mandates, and senior associate Noirin McFadden, who has a strong background in technology and data protection matters. Associate Anna Sikora joined from an in-house position at Vodafone in 2022 to further bolster the group’s expertise.Practice head(s):
Catherine Adam
Other key lawyers:
Jennifer Marsh; Richard Dollimore; Arthur Artinian; Gabriela da Costa; Noirin McFadden; Georgina Rigg
Testimonials
‘Straightforward, honest and easy to deal with. Make clients feel extremely comfortable when discussing legal terminology which they may not normally be subject to or fully understand. Very supportive business in all aspects of their work. Would highly recommend.’
‘Jennifer Marsh – Outstanding in regard to work carried out. Delivery of information in a format that is relevant and clear. Supportive with all aspects of the work, easily contactable and always available and sometimes at short notice. Information delivered in a manner that is easy to digest.’
Key clients
Kinship Partners Inc.
Coty Inc.
SharkNinja Europe Limited
Gucci
Cummins Inc.
WWE
Maytronics
Design Museum
Work highlights
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 3
K&L Gates LLP's 'smart, strategic and flexible' team consistently acts in major commercial disputes involving the firm's core specialisms, such as corporate transactions, energy, construction, funds, finance and Fintech. Other disputes specialisms cover technology, sport, gambling, consumer products, commercial life sciences, manufacturing, and logistics. The team is headed by 'excellent litigator' John Magnin, who is particularly focused on corporate, joint venture, finance, crypto and sports-related disputes; and Martin King, who has longstanding experience in the resolution of commercial disputes. At special counsel level, Clare Tanner is an expert in corporate, banking, finance, professional liability, insolvency, and offshore-related litigation.Practice head(s):
John Magnin
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Extremely quick and accurate grasp of the relevant facts, as well as the ability to focus on the key issues.’
‘K&L Gates has a very versatile team, which is able to handle a broad variety of matters.’
‘Clients love working with John Magnin, who is very strong intellectually, and also firm and calm.’
‘John Magnin is an excellent litigator, especially for complex and high-value disputes.’
‘John Magnin understands both commercial and technical issues very well.’
‘Clare Tanner is extremely diligent and careful.’
‘Smart, strategic and flexible – great individuals.’
Key clients
The Racing Partnership
Arena Leisure
Arena Racing Corporation
Crescendo Real Estate Debt Fund
Change Agronomy
Grant Thornton
China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings
Republic of France
Work highlights
- Acted for The Racing Partnership and Arena Racing Company in business-critical litigation concerning issues of contract, confidentiality, and conspiracy, to stop the unauthorised use and commercial exploitation of live sports data.
- Representing an individual defendant in a claim brought by a Syrian individual and eight anonymous claimants, in respect of an alleged conspiracy to fund a terrorist group in Syria.
- Acting for crypto investment vehicles and DeFi platforms/apps in a number of crypto/digital asset disputes.
Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 3
K&L Gates LLP acts for fashion and sport retailers, luxury brands, and consumer electronics, with notable strength in intellectual property and competition matters. The team is jointly led by Arthur Artinian, Catherine Adam and Jennifer Marsh. Artinian is a seasoned intellectual property expert, handling disputes, transactions, and strategy advice. Adam is recommended for commercial and logistics mandates, while Marsh specialises in advising consumer brands on competition issues, go-to-market strategies, and commercial agreements. Gabriela Da Costa was elevated to the partnership in March 2022, and also works on competition matters.Practice head(s):
Arthur Artinian; Catherine Adam; Jennifer Marsh
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Coty
SharkNinja
CTD Tiles (owned by Aurelius Group)
Nike
GHD
Ergotron
Wella Company
Kinship
Fiskars Group and various brand businesses (Waterford, Wedgwood, Royal Copenhagen, Iittala, Royal Doulton, and Fiskars tools)
Modibodi
Work highlights
- Advising Prada, Waterford and GoPro on the design and competition law compliance of their D2C retail presence and activities.
- Advising on CTD’s acquisition of 13 Tile Giant branches.
- Advising producers such as Coty, ghd and Jabra on consumer protection and product compliance laws in relation to the sale of products to consumers.
Public sector > Electoral Tier 3
K&L Gates LLP boasts a record of advising elected officials, political parties, and campaigns groups on a range of issues related to elections conduct, post-Brexit legal concerns, electoral finance matters, and lobbying rules. The team is led by Dylan Moses, who has handled Electoral Commission investigations and notably advises on political, cultural, and campaigning regulations in relation to the return of UK-held cultural artefacts. Investigations lawyer Rosie Naylor is also recommended and has experience advising campaign groups on their formations and activities during regulated election periods.Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 3
Bolstering its hospitality and retail expertise, the ‘efficient, skilled, commercial and diverse’ practice at K&L Gates LLP excels in big-ticket development, investment, and regeneration matters. Head of real estate Christian Major advises institutional funds on the acquisition, letting and management of commercial and residential assets and portfolios. Steven Cox and Joanna Williams thrive in the corporate occupiers arena and often handle landlord and tenant mandates. Williams is also noted for her expertise in property finance. Chiara Del Frate is adept in logistics, restaurant, shopping centre and student housing property mandates, both in the UK and Italy, and ‘exceptional’ Tim Webb assists real estate private equity funds. Wayne Smith and Christopher Swallow primarily act for institutional investors, and Emma Maher is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Christian Major
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The real estate team provide high level legal advice, is multidisciplinary and offers a unique global platform. The team is also commercial and able to anticipate the needs and problems of our business.’
‘The team were very professional and provided excellent advice throughout the complex project.’
‘The leadership and knowledge shown by the individuals was excellent. They were able to help us deal with a very complicated transaction in a very straight forward fashion.’
‘Chiara Del Frate is experienced with an excellent commercial and practical sense. She is a skilled negotiator, very responsive, able to deal with complex cross-border matters, accurate and well organised.’
Key clients
Abrdn Plc
Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA)
Coty Inc.
Edinburgh St James Limited Partnership
European Estates Plc
Hakkasan
Home House
LRC Group
Nuveen Real Estate
Optiver
Royal Academy of the Arts
Slalom Consulting
The Guinness Partnership
Unity Software
Workspace Group Plc
Work highlights
- Advised global super brand Hakkasan on landlord and tenant matters.
- Advised Optiver on their new headquarters in London and adapting the space to meet specific requirements.
- Advising Slalom Consulting in relation to their expansion across the UK.
Real estate > Commercial property: investment Tier 3
Bolstering its hospitality and retail expertise, the ‘efficient, skilled, commercial and diverse’ practice at K&L Gates LLP excels in big-ticket development, investment, and regeneration matters. Head of real estate Christian Major advises institutional funds on the acquisition, letting and management of commercial and residential assets and portfolios. Steven Cox and Joanna Williams thrive in the corporate occupiers arena and often handle landlord and tenant mandates. Williams is also noted for her expertise in property finance. Chiara Del Frate is adept in logistics, restaurant, shopping centre and student housing property mandates, both in the UK and Italy, and ‘exceptional’ Tim Webb assists real estate private equity funds. Wayne Smith and Christopher Swallow primarily act for institutional investors, and Emma Maher is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Christian Major
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘We have been working with K&L Gates for ten years and are fully satisfied by the high quality of the legal services they provide.’
‘They have a great global platform and are able to deal with complex investment and cross borders matters. They are efficient, skilled, commercial and diverse.’
‘The team were very professional and provided excellent advice throughout the complex project.’
‘The leadership and knowledge shown by the individuals was excellent. They were able to help us deal with a very complicated transaction in a very straight forward fashion.’
‘An exceptional team.’
‘Chiara Del Frate is available, accurate, skilled, and commercial with great communication and management skills. She is able to anticipate our needs and support our business.’
Key clients
Abrdn Plc
Avanton
Beehive Affordable Homes
Caisson Investment Management LLP
Coty Inc.
Cromwell Property Group
Edinburgh St James Limited Partnership
European Estates Plc
The Guinness Partnership
Hakkasan
LRC Group
Nuveen Real Estate
Patrizia AG
Stroud District Council
Workspace Group Plc
Work highlights
- Advising Edinburgh St James Limited Partnership and Nuveen Real Estate on the real estate construction aspects of the St James Quarter Development.
- Advising Guinness Homes/The Guinness Partnership on a sale of a 28 storey ‘Build To Rent’ units.
- Advising Patrizia on the purchase of residential build to rent units from Berkeley Homes.
Real estate > Construction: contentious Tier 3
K&L Gates LLP excels in resolving complex disputes related to major projects both in the UK and internationally, leveraging varied resolution procedures like adjudications, international arbitrations, mediations, and expert determinations. The firm is proficient in advising on UK infrastructure projects and real estate developments, along with a growing international practice spanning the Middle East and Asia Pacific. The team is led by Matthew Smith, whose expertise is advising on UK and international transport, energy, and infrastructure disputes, and Kevin Greene, who acts for institutional investors, developers, owners, funders and contractors. Jeremy Farr stands out with his focus on offshore energy and EPC, while Clare Kempkens offers her expertise as an experienced offshore construction lawyer. Matthew Walker’s practice extends to the Middle East, working from both the London and Doha offices.Practice head(s):
Kevin Greene; Matthew Smith
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘K&L Gates provide a premium service with genuine sector expertise and international reach.’
‘Matthew Smith is a genuine construction law expert in both the international and UK domestic markets. He is also a pleasure to deal with.’
‘The team consists of bright, attentive lawyers who are led by seasoned, experienced practitioners. They quickly get to the nub of the issues involved, which enables them to give timely, sound, practical, commercial advice. They understand the various dispute resolution and give clients excellent advice to navigate them. The team is responsive and a delight to work with.’
‘Matthew Smith has a vast amount of experience and gives considered, informed and pragmatic advice. He understands the industries he works in and is a commercial lawyer with a great eye for detail who gets to the core of a dispute quickly. Matthew leads his team with aplomb and is a great communicator and tactician who always has an eye on the bigger picture.’
‘Matthew Walker is a first-rate, knowledgeable construction lawyer. He has excellent client management and communication skills. Matthew has considerable experience in the Middle East, he understands the laws and culture. He thrives on understanding and unpicking the factual matrix, so he can put the best case possible forward.’
‘Excellent client communication and prodigiously hard-working team. Good “hands on” partner involvement.’
‘Matt Smith is a powerhouse on construction disputes. Compared to other firms, I think the team’s strongest point is how efficient they are.’
‘The team was professional, skilled and experienced.’
Key clients
Nuveen Real Estate
Edinburgh St James Limited Partnership
Halcrow Ltd
Augusta Ventures
General Electric
Nuveen
Hitachi Rail Ltd
Transport for London
London Underground Limited
LUL Nominee SSL Ltd
LUL Nominee BCV Ltd
Rail for London
Crossrail Limited
Qatar Rail
Laing O’Rourke Group
Renfe
Corinth Pipeworks Holdings S.A
Angola LNG
Crown Commercial Services
Patrizia
Jacobs
GE Grid Solutions
GE Renewables
Ferrovial Construction UK
Breakshore Limited
Far East Façades (UK) Limited
Westinghouse Electric Company
Engie
Work highlights
- Advising Westinghouse on its AP1000 nuclear projects across Europe.
- Advised Breakshore, a developer, in relation to disputes with its contractor in relation to a residential development project in Kent.
- Representing FEFUK in two proceedings issued urgently out of the High Court’s Technology and Construction Court and Insolvency and Companies List.
Real estate > Construction: non-contentious Tier 3
K&L Gates LLP provides advisory services on high-profile UK real estate development and transport infrastructure projects, with an expanding international practice. Kevin Greene, leading the London department, acts on behalf of institutional investors, developers, owners, funders, and contractors, bringing expertise in negotiating and drafting complex construction, procurement, and engineering contracts. Matthew Smith, as the global head of construction, focuses on advising clients in the UK and internationally on transport, energy, and infrastructure projects. Matthew Walker, a partner based in both the Doha and London offices, offers non-contentious construction advice specifically within the rail sector.Practice head(s):
Kevin Greene; Matthew Smith
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Nuveen Real Estate
Hitachi Rail Ltd
Transport for London
Crossrail Limited
Qatar Rail
European Metals Holdings
Mass Rapid Transit Malaysia
Angola LNG
Crown Commercial Services
Greater London Authority (GLA)
Patrizia
Ministry of Municipality and the Environment, Doha
London River Services Ltd
Ferrovial Construction UK
Ferring Pharmaceuticals
Westinghouse Electric Company
Work highlights
- Advising on the construction aspects of the St James Quarter Development, an extensive mixed-use regeneration project in Edinburgh with a value of £850 million.
- Advised on the FIDIC-based contract forms for initial feasibility studies and the most efficient project structure for the client, taking into account local law issues. On this project we are working with our local Czech counsel, Kamil Blažek of Kinstellar.
- Representing Westinghouse, the nuclear technology provider, in relation to a series of high value nuclear projects across the globe.
Corporate and commercial > M&A: Lower Mid-Market Deals, £100m-£750m Tier 4
Working with local and US corporate clients on a host of cross-border acquisitions and divestitures, the ‘extremely commercial’ K&L Gates LLP offers a ‘brilliant’ service across a number of key sectors, including technology, industrials, real estate, energy, infrastructure and sport. Beyond his position as practice head, the ‘quick witted and personable’ Paul Tetlow maintains a diverse practice, covering public takeovers, main and AIM market flotations, M&A, and family office investments across a range of industries. Tom Wallace handles a broad range of transactions in the financial services and technology space, while automotive industry specialist Howard Kleiman is experienced in M&A, IPOs, reorganisations, fundraisings and private equity transactions. James Green - a specialist in mining, oil and gas and renewable energy work - is noted for his expertise in international public and private M&A, including in emerging markets, while James Cross is recommended for his focus on private equity transactions.Practice head(s):
Paul Tetlow
Other key lawyers:
Tom Wallace; John Elgar; Howard Kleiman; James Green; James Cross; Richard Dollimore
Testimonials
‘The team are extremely commercial, very easy to work with and provide brilliant service.’
‘Paul Tetlow is a very human, quick witted and personable individual.’
‘Paul Tetlow was able to assemble a knowledgeable team that enabled us to navigate the various landscapes and jurisdictions to close the transaction at short notice.’
‘Paul Tetlow is a very commercially oriented and knowledgeable lawyer that helped us cross the finish line. Our executive team were delighted with his and his team’s exceptional support. This team was extremely helpful and the guidance they provided was key in getting the deal done.’
Key clients
Shelf Drilling Ltd.
Pearson Plc
Lesha Bank
Global Resale, LLC
Amaroq Minerals Limited
The Shareholders of Bilboes Gold Limited
CML Microsystems PLC
Orangewood Partners
Soho Square Capital
Sealaska Corporation
Confluence Technologies, Inc.
Axonics, Inc.
Fiserv, Inc.
D.D.Williamson & Co.
Go Instore
Brightstar Device Protection LLC
The Shareholders of The Segen Group Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Shelf Drilling, Ltd. on its acquisition to acquire five jack-up rigs from various subsidiaries of Noble Corporation.
- Advised a U.S. subsidiary of Pearson PLC, a London-based leading global EdTech and workforce solutions provider, in connection with its acquisition of Personnel Decisions Research Institute, LLC, the market leader in talent management and workforce assessments.
- Advised Lesha Bank (previously known as Qatar First Bank) on the acquisition by a consortium of Qatari investors of a minority interest in Ennismore, a global hotel management company.
Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £500m) Tier 4
Working with a growing roster of domestic and international sponsors, K&L Gates LLP is a popular choice for a number of funds across the mid-market space. The London office is headed up by James Cross, a prolific transactional adviser who leads the firm’s relationships with many of its key sponsor, investor, and portfolio company clients. Cross is regularly supported by Andrew Poole, a similarly active deals lawyer whose recent engagements include investment transactions in the professional services and tech sectors.Practice head(s):
James Cross
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Soho Square Capital
Orangewood Partners
Pearson Plc
Aurelius
August Equity
Averroes Capital
Inspirit Capital
TriSpan
AGIC Capital
Flywheel Partners
Work highlights
- Advised Soho Square Capital on its investment and partnership with Oliver James.
- Advised Orangewood Partners on its investment in Barrington James.
- Advised a U.S. subsidiary of Pearson PLC in connection with its acquisition of Personnel Decisions Research Institute, LLC for approximately $185m from Exponent Private Equity.
Finance > Transport finance and leasing Tier 4
Despite the departure in October 2022 of Sidanth Rajagopal to Morgan, Lewis & Bockius UK LLP, K&L Gates LLP maintains considerable market visibility among lessors, in particular, across a range of new money and restructuring mandates. Peter O'Hare handles much of this work and has expertise across a range of financing transactions, including capital markets-related matters and large portfolio trading and warehouse financing transactions. 'One of the best, most knowledgeable legal professionals in aviation field', Philip Perrotta co-heads the team alongside O'Hare, regularly handling complex matters for parts suppliers and manufacturers.Practice head(s):
Pete O’Hare; Philip Perrotta
Other key lawyers:
Max Griffin
Testimonials
‘It is the involvement and passion….. Transmits confidence and that client is not just a “time sheet filling provider.”…’
‘You really fell that they are there for your case and will do all they can to get the best for your project/intentions/case.’
‘As a client we value the professionalism of the team as well as high communication skills and responsiveness.’
‘ Philip Perrotta has a unique skill of providing high-quality legal advice and is one of the best most knowledgeable legal professionals in the aviation field.’
Key clients
Abelo Capital Aviation Management Limited (formerly Elix Aviation Management Limited)
JLPS Ireland Limited
LCI
Work highlights
- Advising the borrower on the Balthazar backed limited recourse financing of an A350 aircraft leased to a European flag carrier pursuant to a Japanese operating lease (a first-in-kind transaction).
- Advising the lessor on the sale and leaseback of A320NEO aircraft with an Indian airline (one of the largest sale and lease back transactions completed in the market in 2022).
- Advising a joint venture on a master term loan agreement secured on a portfolio of helicopters.
Projects, energy and natural resources > Oil and gas Tier 4
K&L Gates LLP acts for clients across the upstream, midstream and downstream oil & gas sectors on both non-contentious and contentious matters. Corporate partner Paul Tetlow leads the team alongside experienced oil & gas lawyer Jeremy Farr who is praised as ‘a first class lawyer with a strong commercial, solution-orientated approach’.Practice head(s):
Paul Tetlow; Jeremy Farr
Other key lawyers:
Ben Holland; Charles Lockwood; Clare Kempkens; James Green
Testimonials
‘International reach. Breadth of experience across the team. Strong on use of technology (information and billing) hubs which shares openly with client.’
‘Jeremy Farr is a standout partner. A first class lawyer with a strong commercial, solution- orientated approach. Works easily with all members of the client team and management. Highly responsive and always adds value to the question at hand.’
‘Charles Lockwood also worth a special mention.’
‘Ben Holland is great consultant. He is very knowledgeable, highly educated and well versed in the energy sector.’
‘Extremely commercial, very easy to work with and brilliant service.’
‘Paul Tetlow is very human, quick witted and personable individual – you would be happy to be stuck in a lift with him.’
‘The team is know for: fast feedback on enquiries with preliminary analysis even in the first email; direct contact with executive lawyer not only with partner which is speed up the process; advise and support on first stages even before commercial issues agreed; and support from colleagues in other jurisdictions in trans border cases even in countries where the firm does not have own offices.’
‘Ben Holland is a very responsible and have wide outlook and knowledge in technical matters which is important in cases where high tech equipment is the subject.’
Key clients
Longboat Energy Plc
PKN Orlen S.A.
Stifel Nicolaus Europe Limited
Deltic Energy PLC
Glencore Energy UK Ltd
Shelf Drilling Ltd
Novomet ZFE
Halliburton
Uniper Global Commodities
Bumi Armada Berhad
Wood Plc
Work highlights
- Advised Shelf Drilling on the USD375 million acquisition of five jack-up drilling rigs from Noble Corporation.
- Advised Deltic Energy PPLC on its placing and open offer funding.
- Advised Uniper Global Commodities on the urgent preparation and negotiation of a Terminal Use Agreement and related documentation for the Wilhelmshaven FSRU LNG terminal.
Real estate > Commercial property: development Tier 4
Bolstering its hospitality and retail expertise, the ‘efficient, skilled, commercial and diverse’ practice at K&L Gates LLP excels in big-ticket development, investment, and regeneration matters. Head of real estate Christian Major advises institutional funds on the acquisition, letting and management of commercial and residential assets and portfolios. Steven Cox and Joanna Williams thrive in the corporate occupiers arena and often handle landlord and tenant mandates. Williams is also noted for her expertise in property finance. Chiara Del Frate is adept in logistics, restaurant, shopping centre and student housing property mandates, both in the UK and Italy, and ‘exceptional’ Tim Webb assists real estate private equity funds. Wayne Smith and Christopher Swallow primarily act for institutional investors, and Emma Maher is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Christian Major
Other key lawyers:
Steven Cox; Joanna Williams; Chiara Del Frate; Tim Webb; Wayne Smith; Christopher Swallow; Emma Maher; Richard Dollimore
Testimonials
‘The team were very professional and provided excellent advice throughout the complex project.’
‘The leadership and knowledge shown by the individuals was excellent. They were able to help us deal with a very complicated transaction in a very straight forward fashion.’
‘In BTR investment/development, the team is extremely strong.’
‘Tim Webb is exceptional. He is polished, cool headed, and gets stuck in. He knows what I want and delivers.’
‘Emma Maher is exceptional. She is in control of all the workstreams and assists Tim to ensure all bases are covered. She’s also very proactive.’
Key clients
Abrdn Plc
Avanton
Beehive Affordable Homes
Caisson Investment Management LLP
Coty Inc.
Cromwell Property Group
Edinburgh St James Limited Partnership
European Estates Plc
The Guinness Partnership
Hakkasan
LRC Group
Nuveen Real Estate
Patrizia AG
Stroud District Council
Workspace Group Plc
Work highlights
- Advising Edinburgh St James Limited Partnership and Nuveen Real Estate on the real estate construction aspects of the St James Quarter Development.
- Advising Guinness Homes/The Guinness Partnership on a sale of a 28 storey ‘Build To Rent’ units.
- Advising Patrizia on the purchase of residential build to rent units from Berkeley Homes.
Real estate > Planning Tier 4
The ‘incredibly efficient and focused’ planning team at K&L Gates LLP acts on both sides of development matters, working across a range of sectors for both public and private clients. The team handles regeneration and infrastructure projects, urban redevelopment, and strategic planning, as well as some cross-border transactional work. Practice head Feroze Abbas ‘provides consistently strong advice’ and has developed expertise in niche areas of the planning sphere, including vires and transactional structuring. ‘Diligent’ and ‘knowledgeable’ senior associate Rebecca Daniels plays an active role in the majority of the team’s planning projects.Practice head(s):
Feroze Abbas
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team have expert skills in all aspect of planning law. As a local authority client, the most value of the K&L Gates team is the confidence it distils in advocating on our behalf, especially in high-value and complex cases. The team have advanced the skills of the wider time and ensured we remained equipped with latest case law and legislative developments.’
‘Feroze Abbas, Rebecca Daniels, and the team have always stood out as fantastic lawyers, but are also able to engage with a variety of partners and stakeholders – from developers to local councillors. They have excellent sector knowledge and are highly respected. They go the extra mile to ensure they understand the position prior to entering negotiations and have been intimately involved in developing new and bold ways of securing additional value. They are strong advocates.’
‘The people in the K&L Gates team are the best of the best.’
‘K&L Gates always provide insightful, excellent advice which is easily digestible and go above and beyond to help explain to junior members of the client team when needed. They are renowned for being personable and enjoyable to work with, but robust in defence and all advice given.’
‘Feroze Abbas is exceptionally personable and will make himself available to help.’
‘Rebecca Daniels is extremely through, whilst also very friendly and approachable, which helps to mark her out from other firms.’
‘The team is incredibly efficient and focused, providing robust and well-constructed advice to the client.’
‘Feroze Abbas provides consistently strong advice and exceptional client care.’
Key clients
Avanton
Coty Inc
Elysian Residences
London Borough of Hounslow
London Borough of Bromley
London Newcastle
LRC Group
Nuveen Real Estate
Patrizia AG
Stroud District Council
Workspace Group PLC
Work highlights
- Advising the London Borough of Hounslow on all aspects of planning, including negotiation of section 106 agreements on multiple development sites.
- Advising Workspace Group PLC on the re-development of the Chocolate Factory in Wood Green, now part of an area wide regeneration scheme.
- Continuing to advise Avanton on its strategic Old Kent Road project, as well as Avanton’s new Culvert Close, London development which is currently in planning.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 4
K&L Gates LLP’s IP practice routinely handles trade mark portfolio management for household name brands, as well as litigation and copyright strategy, among other matters. The department is active across an array of sectors, including luxury goods, technology and consumer electronics. Practice head Arthur Artinian acts for high profile brands on global IP strategy, transactions and disputes. Associate Simon Casinader’s expertise includes the prosecution and enforcement of IP protection strategies, while associate Serena Totino, who is dual qualified in Italy and England, is active on transactional IP matters. Fellow associate Georgina Rigg is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Arthur Artinian
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Nike
Coty
Aman Hotels Group
TripAdvisor
Wella Company
Ralph Lauren
Tateossian
Furla
Renzo Piano
Cardtronics
Coinbase
Work highlights
- Acting as Nike’s sole design counselling firm in the UK, to manage all design matters for all Nike business units including NIKE, JORDAN and CONVERSE, including prosecution, enforcement, litigation and strategy.
- Advising Coty on the global rollout of the Kylie Skin and Kylie Cosmetics businesses, following from our representation of the client in its $600m licensing and collaboration deal with Kylie Jenner.
- Acting as global IP counsel for Aman Hotels Group and managing the company’s entire global IP portfolio of trade marks and designs as well as advising on enforcement, domain name, litigation and licensing matters.
Transport > Aviation Tier 4
K&L Gates LLP acts for airlines and lessors on a range of transactions, including sales, purchases and leases, with contentious matters including issues of non-payment and aircraft seized in Russia also forming part of the practice’s capabilities. Heading the group are aviation financing specialists Philip Perrotta and Peter O’Hare, with Peter Morton co-ordinating the firm’s international arbitration practice and taking the lead on aviation sector disputes. Former practice heads Sidanth Rajagopal and Manuela Krach moved to Morgan, Lewis & Bockius UK LLP in October 2022 and March 2023 respectively.Practice head(s):
Philip Perrotta; Peter O’Hare; Peter Morton
Testimonials
‘They have a significant number of partners with deep expertise in aviation and transport-related disputes, including financing and leasing, regulatory and technical matters.’
‘As a client, we value the professionalism of the team as well as high communication skills and responsiveness.’
‘The whole team is supportive, including but not limited to partners, paralegals and the financial department etc.’
‘Philip Perrotta has a unique skill of providing high-quality legal advice and is one of the best knowledgeable legal professionals in the aviation field.’
‘Philip Perrotta has the best understanding of business needs and finds the best solutions to meet the customer’s needs.’
‘Peter Morton is a highly qualified legal professional, very responsive and a true expert in his field.’
Key clients
Abelo Capital Aviation Management Limited
JLPS Ireland Limited
Lease Corporation International (LCI)
Vietjet
Avation PLC
China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC)
AMRA Leasing
Work highlights
- Represented AMRA Leasing in obtaining a default judgment for over $10m in respect of sums due under an aircraft lease, and thereafter in 2022 successfully defeating an application to set aside the judgment.
- Acted for aircraft lessor China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC) in parallel Commercial Court proceedings against defendants Asia Aviation Capital Limited and AirAsia Berhad, leading to a successful resolution of the dispute in 2022.
- Acted for a leading provider of air cargo services in ICC arbitration proceedings with an Asian national flag carrier airline regarding a long term hard block cargo capacity agreement.
Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 5
K&L Gates LLP advises on a broad range of matters concerning ESG, AIFMD, MiFID II, EMIR, payment services, fintech and cryptocurrency, with demonstrable capability in handling pan-European and transatlantic mandates. Michelle Moran spearheads the London-based practice and advises on the establishment, authorisation and management of retail and institutional investment funds in the UK, Ireland, Luxembourg and Jersey. Other key contacts in the group include Philip Morgan and Andrew Massey.Practice head(s):
Michelle Moran; Michael Caccese
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘K&L Gates cover the financial services regulatory landscape with professionals in the UK and Europe.’
‘The entire team provides real-time and practical advice on financial market regulation and enforcement matters.’
‘Andrew Massey is always ready to provide thorough, comprehensive advice.’
‘Very knowledgeable about UK and EU remuneration regulations applicable to regulated companies.’
‘Andrew Massey is approachable, experienced and responsive.’
Key clients
Dimensional Fund Advisors
Federated Hermes
First Sentier Investors
Manulife Investment Management (Europe)
Securitas
Work highlights
- Representing Dimensional Fund Advisors, a global investment manager with approximately US$637bn in assets under management.
- Representing Federated Hermes a global investment manager operating in Europe through regulated entities in the UK and Ireland.
- Representing First Sentier Investors (formerly Colonial First State) a global asset management business which manages assets of US$180bn.
Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals) Tier 5
Counting CEOs, senior managers, and company directors amongst its key clients, the K&L Gates LLP practice specialises in handling internal investigations, serious and complex fraud, and money laundering. The team has a strong presence in the sanctions and extradition space, regularly defending individuals in proceedings brought by domestic enforcement agencies including the SFO, FCA, and FRC. Practice head Dylan Moses displays ‘excellent knowledge’ on white-collar crime and regulatory matters, while Michael Ruck is a ‘first-class advisor’ on multi-jurisdictional criminal investigations. Rosie Naylor handles bribery and corruption proceedings, while Annabel Goulding focuses on fraud issues.Practice head(s):
Dylan Moses
Other key lawyers:
Brian Saulnier; Michael Ruck; Rosie Naylor; Annabel Goulding
Testimonials
‘Dylan Moses is a very highly regarded practitioner who has acted on significant mandates.’
‘Dylan Moses is cool, calm and collected in his approach. A fantastic operator with years of experience as a criminal lawyer.’
‘Has recently emerged as strong team with real experience of white-collar trial work. Both partners Dylan Moses and Michael Ruck have both been involved in significant SFO and FCA trials respectively. That kind of experience is not so common in the market these days so they can properly claim proper trial experience.’
‘The team are very strong but also able to call very easily on expertise from across the firm where needed.’
‘Dylan Moses has excellent knowledge, sensible and pragmatic judgement and I’d great at breaking down issues to the fundamental matters. He also listens to and values the input of his team, which I felt was very important.’
‘Rosie Naylor has a really strong knowledge of the material and a great eye for detail. She adds a different view to many discussions, which is always valuable.’
‘A full commercial offering with exceptional financial regulation experience and expertise.’
‘Michael Ruck is by far one of the leading regulatory defence lawyers for FCA enforcement investigations and both civil and criminal proceedings.’
Key clients
Former CEO of Balli Group Plc
Former CFO of Redcentric
Senior Manager of KPMG
Work highlights
- Representing the former CEO of Balli Group PLC in connection with the SFO’s investigation of UK registered companies Balli Group plc, Balli Steel and Balli Trading Ltd in relation to suspected fraud offences.
- The firm has been instructed by former Redcentric CFO Tim Coleman. The instructions are in connection with Mr Coleman’s alleged criminal conduct whilst working at Redcentric, in the accounting periods leading up to the 2016 interim and year-end results.
- Representing a senior manager of KPMG in connection with the FRC’s investigation into the FRC’s Audit Quality Review into aspects of the audits of Carillion (year end 2016) and Regenersis (year end 2014).
Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 5
K&L Gates LLP‘ 'global team is led by exceptional partners'. The London practice's arbitration instructions incorporate a range of industries, including insurance coverage (policy-holder side), energy, technology, media, aviation, and construction and infrastructure. Ian Meredith is experienced in insurance, energy and investment disputes; John Magnin has longstanding international arbitration expertise; Peter Morton is an aviation and energy disputes specialist; and Ben Holland handles multi-jurisdictional large-scale claims for energy sector clients.Practice head(s):
John Magnin; Ian Meredith; Peter Morton
Other key lawyers:
Ben Holland; Jeremy Farr; Clare Kempkens; Matthew Walker; Nita Mistry; Tim Gavigan; Theo Hall; Louise Bond; Jack Salter
Testimonials
‘A diverse and knowledgeable team.’
‘The firm’s global team is led by exceptional partners, enabling them to work 24/7 on extremely complex, very high-value international arbitrations.’
‘The level of service and their technical knowledge are exemplary.’
‘All are technically superb, always available, proactive, and a pleasure to deal with.’
Key clients
Republic of France
Glencore Energy UK
Arconic
Howmet Aerospace
Formula 1®
Work highlights
- Represents the Republic of France in a series of court and arbitral proceedings, which arise out of the loss of oil tanker M/T Prestige and the resulting oil spill.
- Acting for an Indian foreign investor in an investment treaty arbitration against a Middle Eastern sovereign, arising from a PPP infrastructure project.
- Acted in a Dubai International Arbitration Centre arbitration, concerning a major infrastructure project in the Middle East.
Investment fund formation and management > Private funds Tier 5
Recommended for advising clients on complex private equity fund structures as well as spin outs, K&L Gates LLP is led by Daniel Greenaway who leverages his prior experience working in the tax field to advise GPs on impact-linked carried interest structures.Practice head(s):
Daniel Greenaway
Other key lawyers:
Jin Enyi; Laura Price
Testimonials
‘This is an excellent team with deep experience and a very commercial approach.’
‘Exceptionally professional, responsive and courteous.’
‘We have worked with Daniel Greenaway and his team in fund structuring using Scottish Limited partnerships and find him and his team are exceptionally good at what they do and hard wording. They are also incredibly responsive and on the ball on technical issues.’
‘We have worked with Daniel Greenaway – he offers strong commercial knowledge, a comprehensive understanding of funds and excellent technical knowledge.’
‘We have worked with Laura Price who is an associate in Daniel’s team. We have been impressed by her responsiveness and eye for detail.’
‘The firm boasts a team of highly skilled and personable lawyers with extensive experience covering many industries and practice areas. Their deep understanding of the unique dynamics and intricacies of private equity transactions enables them to provide tailored legal advice and solutions.’
‘Collaboration is a hallmark of K&L Gates globally and its their global footprint that allows them to serve clients like us in multiple jurisdictions.’
‘Great team to work with. Very responsive, highly personable, exceptional output.’
Key clients
TriSpan
Future Business Partnership
Flywheel Partners
Astarte Capital
Seek Ventures
Inspirit Capital
Work highlights
- Advising TriSpan on raising its new Rising Stars fund.
- Advising Future Business Partnership, which invests in sustainable brands through raising ethically-motivated capital.
- Advising Inspirit Capital on its second fund.
Real estate > Environment Tier 5
Feroze Abbas leads the planning and environment cohort at K&L Gates LLP, which has a particular focus advising namely local planning authorities on the environmental aspects of urban regeneration projects and corporate transactions.Practice head(s):
Feroze Abbas
Other key lawyers:
Georgina Rigg
Key clients
AMBIPAR PARTICIPAÇÕES E EMPREENDIMENTOS S.A.
Workspace Group plc
International Molybdenum Association
London Borough of Hounslow
Nortek Inc.
Coty Inc.
LRC Group
Nuveen Real Estate
Work highlights
- Advising the Council as Local Planning Authority on environmental aspects of significant development and regeneration schemes including carbon offset programs, sustainable travel links and green travel plans.
- Providing development advice to a longstanding client on a number of schemes including all environmental elements of agreements such as contaminated land and remediation.
- Acting for Brazil-based Ambipar Participacoes E Empreendimentos S.A. on its corporate acquisition of Enviroclear Site Services Limited, a UK-based waste management service.
Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates) Tier 5
Counting multinational corporations and FTSE 250 companies amongst its key clients, the K&L Gates LLP practice draws upon its ‘wealth of experience’ to offer bespoke advice on regulatory matters and cross-border business crime cases. The team has a strong track record in high-profile SFO and FRC investigations, using its network of US offices when addressing AML, fraud, and bribery proceedings spanning across many different jurisdictions. The ‘bright, practical’ Dylan Moses leads the practice, frequently dealing with complex health and safety prosecutions, while Brian Saulnier focuses on corruption-related issues. Michael Ruck handles regulatory compliance, working closely with domestic and foreign regulators. Rose Naylor is also noted.Practice head(s):
Dylan Moses
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Dylan Moses leads the team in the UK and is a very highly regarded practitioner who acts on significant mandates.’
‘Fantastic team which covers both regulatory and criminal issues.’
‘Dylan Moses and Michael Ruck are brilliant. Michael brings his FCA “in house” experience to his clients.’
‘I have known Michael Ruck for some years, although have not yet worked together with him on a case as co-defendant. I know him reasonably well however and my sense is that he is an up-and-coming lawyer, steeped in the world of financial services regulation, with a keen sense of how to run regulatory investigations well. He also brings the added dimension of having previously worked at the regulator.’
‘The Risk Advisory team at K&L Gates has a wealth of experience in advising and representing corporate clients on risk management and regulatory investigations. The firm’s international presence enables it to address cross border investigations effectively and to provide advice beyond the confines of domestic legislation.’
‘Dylan Moses is at the forefront of the firm’s practice in this field. His deep knowledge of corporate crime is informed by many years of practice as a criminal barrister and a continuing raft of experience in regulatory investigations. He is bright, practical and extremely hard working. His down to earth approach make him popular with corporate clients at all levels. Associate solicitor Rosie Naylor is a highly committed lawyer in this field with excellent judgement and a thorough approach to every aspect of her substantial case load.’
Key clients
Balli Group Plc
Laing O’Rourke
Qatar Free Zone Authority
Work highlights
- Representing various Balli entities, including Balli Group plc, in connection with the SFO’s investigation of UK registered companies Balli Group plc, Balli Steel and Balli Trading Ltd in relation to suspected fraud offences.
- Advising Laing O’Rourke (and two of its subsidiaries) on a number of criminal matters and Health and Safety Executive investigations into breaches of health and safety law.
- Drafting anti-money laundering and counter terrorism, anti-bribery policies and health and safety regulations for the free zone in the state of Qatar.
Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 6
The ‘proactive’ team at K&L Gates LLP attracts considerable praise from clients, who turn to the team for its wide-ranging capabilities in transactional and behavioural competition matters. The practice has a particular emphasis on the vertical space, providing advice on the full gamut of vertical rules including RPM, online and cross-border restrictions and performance pricing. The ‘very diligent’ practice head Jennifer Marsh advises on all aspects of competition law and is regularly engaged by a diverse portfolio of consumer goods heavyweights. Gabriela Da Costa is noted for expertise in EU and UK vertical competition law, having provided assistance to some of the world’s largest consumer brands in sectors such as fashion, luxury, electronics, and sports.Practice head(s):
Jennifer Marsh
Other key lawyers:
Gabriela da Costa; Michal Kocon; Niall Lavery; Georgina Rigg; Anna Sikora
Testimonials
‘They listen to your needs, are proactive, to the point, clear and great value for money. Provide non-legal lingo to non-lawyers, are creative, and adapt to the risk appetite.’
‘Jennifer Marsh and Michal Kocon are very diligent and aware of their subject matter. They make the time for you and are prompt and clear when completing tasks. Friendly and personable.’
Key clients
Royal Copenhagen, Waterford, Wedgwood, Iittala of the Fiskars Group
Jemella Ltd, trading as ghd hair
Westinghouse Electric Company
SharkNinja Europe Limited
Securitas AB
Shelf Drilling, Ltd
Kaman Corporation
GoPro
Aurelius (Ceramic Tile Distributors)
Marshall Amplification PLC
Work highlights
- Advised Microsoft on its multi-billion investment in OpenAI (creator of ChatGPT).
- Advising major consumer brands across the spectrum of complex vertical competition law aspects of their go-to-market strategies in Europe and the UK, including GoPro, Prada/Church’s, SharkNinja, Jabra/GN, Waterford, Wedgewood, Royal Copenhagen, ghd, Osprey, Wella, POC Sport, Gucci, Diesel, Ferragamo, and Mölnlycke.
- Securing acquirers’ suitable purchaser approvals from antitrust and national security regulators in the context of multi-billion transactions, including for Shelf Drilling (Noble/Maersk) and Kaman Corporation (Parker/Meggitt).
Real estate > Property finance Tier 6
Richard Hardwick is the practice head at K&L Gates LLP, and is a trusted adviser to finance parties, sponsors and borrowers on cross-border transactions, CMBS loan restructuring and insolvency. Michael Anderson is experienced in origination, syndication and restructuring of real estate debt.Practice head(s):
Richard Hardwick
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Overall strong leadership and strong input from all the team.’
‘Richard Hardwick – Strong leadership as partner.’
‘The property finance team are very experienced and have a good understanding of the client’s requirements.’
‘The individuals we work with are always proactive and quick to respond to any queries, providing solutions which protect the client’s position.’
Key clients
Northern Trust Group Limited
Threestones Capital Management S.A.
UK Retail Warehouse Fund
Work highlights
- Advised Northern Trust Group, the property investment, development and land regeneration company, in relation to a £270 million facility.
- Acted on the English, German and Luxembourg finance aspects of a syndicated euro 53.5m real estate facility secured on real estate in Germany and Spain.
- Acted on the English and Luxembourg finance aspects of a syndicated euro 16,650,000 real estate facility secured on real estate in Spain.
Finance > Corporate restructuring & insolvency Tier 7
The 'highly responsive and personable' team at K&L Gates LLP provides 'legally tight and commercially insightful advice' to IPs, creditors, funds and corporates on both solvent restructurings and insolvency matters. 'Empathetic and technically excellent' team head Jonathan Lawrence continues to handle a considerable amount of distressed M&A-related work for US funds, and is also well-versed in restructurings with a nexus to the Middle East. Special counsel Clare Tanner is the other main practitioner in the team and has a focus on contentious insolvency matters.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Lawrence
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team delivers legally tight and commercially insightful advice.’
‘The team is highly responsive and personable.’
‘Jonathan Lawrence is experienced, client-centric, empathetic and technically excellent.’
‘Proactive, responsive – the team are a real pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
Travel & General Insurance Services
Chembio Diagnostics
CBRE
CTD Tiles Limited
Mount Street Mortgage Servicing Limited
Work highlights
- Advised CTD Tiles Limited on the acquisition of Tile Giant assets out of administration.
- Advised CBRE on the receivership of a UK commercial real estate asset.
- Advised Travel & General Insurance Services Ltd in respect of its obligations and duties with regard to the re-negotiation of its debt and equity structure and on the rights and obligations of its directors.
Investment fund formation and management > Hedge funds
United States > Dispute resolution > General commercial disputes Tier 4
K&L Gates has a robust track record in trials, arbitrations and mediations, with the group’s expertise extending across cases related to securities, construction, bankruptcy, and banking litigation, among many others. In Pittsburgh, Melissa Tea predominantly represents public and private companies in the manufacturing, technology, and health care sectors. Tea co-chairs the practice alongside Boston-based antitrust and financial services litigation expert Jeffrey Patterson as well as Dallas lawyer Artoush Varshosaz, whose practice emphasizes commercial disputes, internal investigations and financial services litigation.Practice head(s):
Melissa Tea; Jeffrey Patterson; Artoush Varshosaz
Other key lawyers:
Thomas Birsic; Thomas F. Holt, Jr; Michael Stortz; Pallavi Mehta Wahi
Testimonials
‘The team at K&L Gates is extremely versatile, and has the capacity to identify subject matter experts in virtually any field.
‘Breadth of legal areas covered, experienced and knowledgeable team’
‘Very hands on, attentive, pragmatic, strategic – results driven. Pay for work delivered not for lots of bodies to touch a particular matter.’
‘Approachable, talk in easy to understand language, not loads of legal jargon. ’
‘Legal acumen, creative approaches to complex issues, and excellent customer service. They are a pleasure to work with. ’
‘The team nails the concept of bespoke client service.’
‘Pallavi Mehta Wahi redefines law firm-in house partnerships.’
Key clients
Kroger
Koss Corporation
Draken International, LLC
University Health Systems of Eastern Carolina, Inc. and East Carolina Health-Chowan, Inc.
Safe Step Walk-In Tub Company
Samaritan Housing Foundation, Inc.
Cumberland County Hospital System, Inc.
Cape Fear Valley Ambulatory Surgery Center, LLC
Gildan USA, Inc.
PPG Industries, Inc.
United States Steel Corporation
Arkema Inc.
Work highlights
- Represented Kroger in the Washington Courts in an action brought by the Attorney General of Washington to block Albertsons issuance of a $4bn dollar shareholder dividend ahead of its merger with Kroger.
- Represented Draken International in litigation in Delaware relating to a contractual dispute with L3Harris Technologies over the customization and procurement of radar equipment.
- Advised PPG Industries as national coordinating counsel on the company’s nationwide asbestos liabilities, which includes development and implementation of strategic defenses, expert witness development, and management of a large network of local counsel firms.
Qatar > Dispute resolution
The dispute resolution team at K&L Gates is made up of ‘extremely talented lawyers‘, offering a ‘depth of capability at all levels‘. Its arbitration capabilities are particularly praised, with sector expertise across construction and engineering, oil and gas, and banking and finance matters. Team head Matthew Walker works across Doha and London, while Burak Eryiğit is noted for his ‘extraordinary‘ attention-to-detail.Practice head(s):
Matthew Walker
Other key lawyers:
Burak Erygit
Testimonials
‘K&L Gates have a strong and diversified arbitration team that has a proven record in the arbitration field. they have handled complex cases with efficiency, using the latest technology. They are very organised and efficient.’
‘Burak Erygit’s focus and attention-to-detail is extraordinary. His analysis of contractual matters and ability to see issues which were previously not apparent is particularly notable. Burak has relentless focus and work ethic, and ensures the strongest possible position is advanced in pleadings. Burak is a pleasure to work with and I look forward to working with him again.’
‘The members of the team are individually good performers and together highly efficient. They stand-out in the market and maintained the quality of their work and their growth. Their leader Matthew Walker is very good lawyer and team leader with high ethics.’
‘K&L Gates’ has a team of extremely talented lawyers and depth of capability at all levels. Their attention-to-detail and commitment to develop the strongest possible case is clearly evident – and they do so in an affable and exceptionally professional manner.’
‘Matthew Walker’s knowledge of construction law is exceptional and highly commendable. He is able to quickly grasp complex and technical construction issues and develop these into compelling arguments in support of our case. Furthermore, Matthew is a true gentleman and a pleasure to work alongside.’
Key clients
QFC Employment Standards Office
Work highlights
- Acting as counsel to the QFC Employment Standards Office in respect of two related appeals from the decision of the Commissioner of the QFC ESO in respect of unlawful deductions of salary from two employees.
United States > Real estate > Construction (including construction litigation)
K&L Gates assists clients across a wide range of construction issues, ranging from contract negotiation and administration, and construction project support to construction disputes. The group also regularly advises clients in the alternative energy and clean tech sphere. In the firm's London office, Matthew Smith jointly leads the team alongside Nashville-based Slade Sevier, who has experience in construction litigation and contract negotiations. In Pittsburgh, Richard Paciaroni handles cross-border construction-related disputes, while Nashville-based Rob Dodson advises on healthcare, energy and hospitality projects. Other key members of the team in the Nashville office include Ryan Lee and Emma Wolfe, while Pittsburgh-based Jason Richey’s practice covers construction disputes, transactions and bid protest procurement mandates.Practice head(s):
Matthew Smith; Slade Sevier
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is fantastic and very knowledgeable.’
‘They are friendly, knowledgeable and willing to do what it takes for a successful outcome.’
‘Good trial team; reasonable rates and good collaboration.’
‘Rob Dodson is an excellent trial lawyer.’
‘Emma Wolfe is a solid collaborator and strong strategist.’
‘The multi-jurisdictional construction practice at K&L Gates stands out, particularly the interface between construction lawyers in the US and construction lawyers in Europe and MENA.’
‘Richard Paciaroni stands out for his substantive knowledge of construction law and trial skills.’
‘The construction disputes practice at K&L Gates is highly competent and professional. They have the ability to manage a variety of disputes from local construction disputes to international arbitration matters involving various international parties.’
Key clients
Arlanxeo Canada, Inc., Arlanxeo Switzerland, and Arlanxeo Singapore
Alstom Transport USA Inc.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC)
Balfour Beatty Construction, LLC
Enel North America Inc
CHSPSC, LLC
Novelis
IPEX, Inc.
Ørsted Wind Power North America, LLC
Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc
Hankook Tire Manufacturing Tennessee LP
Dollar General Corporation
State of Idaho
K&L Gates LLP > Firm Profile
The Firm: K&L Gates’ London office is known for providing integrated legal teams to address the particular needs of a client, whether a complex global transaction, a corporate investigation, or a major dispute resolution exercise. The firm provides comprehensive international, domestic, and cross-border advice across a broad range of areas, and much of the advice the firm provides involves a combination of practice areas, bespoke to the needs of clients and the particular matter in hand.
K&L Gates is one of the largest law firms in the world with more than 45 offices located in key capital cities and world commercial and financial centres spanning five continents. Its many offices operate as one firm, offering clients local market knowledge and access to both national and international capabilities.
Main areas of practice
Corporate: K&L Gates advises on the full range of corporate and commercial matters, with extensive experience advising on all aspects of domestic and cross-border, public and private M&A transactions; debt and equity capital markets; private equity and venture capital; and the full spectrum of commercial contracts.
Real Estate: The Real Estate team has a wealth of transactional and advisory experience, delivering strategic and practical advice on corporate and joint venture matters, the financing of transactions, tax structures, acquisitions, developments, dispositions, leasing, construction issues (contentious and noncontentious), planning and environmental issues, and dispute resolution. The team also represents funders and investors on all aspects of commercial real estate investment, financing, and mainstream lending.
Finance: K&L Gates’ Finance practice advises banks and borrowers on all aspects of mainstream lending, structured finance and securitisation, commercial real estate financing, and restructuring transactions. The firm also has a dedicated Aviation Finance team with extensive experience representing airlines, financial institutions, and leasing companies around the globe.
Intellectual Property: The Intellectual Property team works on a wide range of commercial, regulatory, data protection, privacy and security, technology transactions, and intellectual property matters, particularly in the technology, retail, luxury, sports, consumer products, and gambling sectors. The team has a market reputation for trademark, design, copyright, and licensing, with expertise in cross-border counselling, registration, clearance, portfolio management, licensing, enforcement (opposition/cancellation proceedings), and disputes.
Asset Management and Investment Funds: Members of the practice advise on the organisation and day-to-day operations of investment advisers of all sizes, open and closed-end investment companies, exchange-traded funds, private funds companies, broker-dealers, retirement plans, family offices, operating platforms, and other service providers to the investment management and broader financial services industries. The team also advises on a broad range of United Kingdom and European Union regulatory matters. The London team is known for its work at the cutting-edge of emerging issues in the field and routinely advises on the establishment of innovative financial markets participants.
Energy, Infrastructure, and Resources: The lawyers in K&L Gates’ London Energy, Infrastructure, and Resources practice work together with colleagues across the globe to guide clients through strategic decisions, policy initiatives, commercial transactions, project financing and development, regulatory compliance, tax matters, credit trading, and litigation across all areas of energy, infrastructure, and resources, including renewables, offshore, maritime, oil and gas, transport and rail, and corporate energy sourcing and sustainability. In relation to construction and infrastructure, the team is known for its role in high-value projects and disputes. The team prides itself on maintaining a thorough grounding in both the legal and business dimensions of the energy and utilities industries.
Litigation and Dispute Resolution: The Litigation and Dispute Resolution team has the depth of experience and capability to deal with the most complex and difficult engagements efficiently and cost effectively, working with clients across a variety of industries and dispute types, including aviation, insurance, energy, finance and funds, media, gambling, sports, construction, and corporate transactional and joint venture disputes. Members of the practice manage cases in the English courts and in all major arbitral forums with a leading international arbitration practice. The team also handles fraud, white-collar defense, and corporate crime matters, and undertakes proceedings before regulatory and administrative bodies. The London office also has a dedicated Insurance Coverage practice, with extensive experience representing policyholders in presenting and pursuing claims against the London insurance market and beyond.
Labor, Employment, and Workplace Safety: The London Labor, Employment, and Workplace Safety team advises on the full range of employment issues, frequently working with colleagues across the firm’s European and other global offices to manage cross-jurisdictional employment projects and advice for clients. The firm’s cross-jurisdictional and cross-disciplinary Global Employer Solutions® also offers clients a single point of contact to access the global experience of lawyers throughout the firm, including in employment, workplace health and safety, immigration, benefits, tax, executive compensation, compliance, and investigations.
Competition and Regulatory: The Competition and Regulatory team provides advice on all European Union and United Kingdom competition and trade laws, including merger control and distribution issues, and represents clients’ interests before the European Commission.
London Managing Partner: Tony Griffiths (Managing Partner, London, Brussels, Dubai, and Doha Offices and Managing Partner, Europe and Middle East)
Offices
Europe: Berlin, Brussels, Dublin, Frankfurt, London, Luxembourg, Milan, Munich, Paris. Middle East: Doha, Dubai. United States: Austin, Boston, Charleston, Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas, Fort Worth, Harrisburg, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, New York, Newark, Orange County, Palo Alto, Pittsburgh, Portland, Raleigh, Research Triangle Park, San Francisco, Seattle, Washington, D.C., Wilmington. South America: Sao Paulo. Asia: Beijing, Hong Kong, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Taipei, Tokyo. Australia: Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney.
Comparative Guides
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Taiwan: Mergers & Acquisitions
Published: April 2024
Authors: Jacqueline FuJoseph TsengYoting Lin
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Mergers & Acquisitions laws and regulations applicable in Taiwan.
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Taiwan: Employment & Labour Law
Published: April 2024
Authors: Jacqueline FuCecilia Lee
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Employment & Labour laws and regulations applicable in Taiwan.
- Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets – small-mid cap
- Insurance > Insurance litigation: for policyholders
- Investment fund formation and management > Retail funds
- Transport > Rail
Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Commercial contracts
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market
- Industry focus > Retail and consumer
- Public sector > Electoral
- Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers
- Real estate > Commercial property: investment
- Real estate > Construction: contentious
- Real estate > Construction: non-contentious
- Corporate and commercial > M&A: Lower Mid-Market Deals, £100m-£750m
- Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £500m)
- Finance > Transport finance and leasing
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Oil and gas
- Real estate > Commercial property: development
- Real estate > Planning
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design
- Transport > Aviation
- Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals)
- Dispute resolution > International arbitration
- Investment fund formation and management > Private funds
- Real estate > Environment
- Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates)