A&O Shearman continues to field a first-rate team that counts debtors, creditors, and bidding companies in its client base and regularly works cross-practice to provide integrated expertise on transactional matters, insolvency proceedings, and out-of-court restructuring. The team particularly stands out for its transactional expertise, regularly working for buyers and sellers on distressed M&A, and also draws on the expertise of experienced litigator Thales Mertens to offer clients standout advice in restructuring and insolvency disputes. Mertens co-leads the practice with Filip Tanghe, who maintains close relationships with a large number of major banks and acts primarily on debt restructurings and corporate reorganisations. Further key contacts in the team include Bart De Bock, who has represented lenders and investors in high-profile contentious matters, as well as banking and finance expert Matthias Purnal.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Great team to work with that is very responsive and client-focused.'
- 'They're responsive, are pragmatic and are solution-focused.'
Key clients
- BNP Paribas Fortis
- Borealis
Work highlights
- Represented the Mirage Retail Group in proceedings brought by the trustee of a bankrupt outlet chain, Megaworld.
- Acted for two creditors on the bankruptcy of a leading Belgian cash-and-carry retail chain called Makro.