Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP
Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP’s restructuring team collaborates with colleagues across various departments, providing assistance to international bondholders, key shareholders, debtors, and corporations in navigating intricate and substantial restructuring mandates. Under the leadership of cross-border restructuring expert Lionel Spizzichino, the practice has recently played a pivotal role in significant debt restructuring cases within the French market, including the high-profile Casino and Orpea cases. Additionally, the team has been instrumental in guiding debtors through France’s largest bankruptcy case this year, offering counsel to GoSport and GAP France in their insolvency proceedings. Among the firm’s notable experts is Audrey Nelson, renowned for her experience in complex out-of-court restructuring matters, as well as her expertise in LBO debt and lender-led restructurings.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The main strength of Willkie's team lies in its excessively commercial approach; they are very close to customers and extremely responsive.'
'The team is there to find solutions and not create problems or impose unnecessary constraints. Very commercial in approach, extremely respected by her clients and outstanding negotiators.'
'They are a key player and reference on the market.'
‘Lionel Spizzichino is always at ease and extremely agile in negotiations and resolving tense situations.'
Key clients
- Air France Group and Air France KLM (holding)
- Cheyne Capital
- Fidera
- HLD
- JPMorgan Chase & Co – Global Special Situations
- OpenGate Capital
- Anchorage Capital Group, Carmignac, Schelcher Pringe Gestion, Boussard & Gavaudan
- Strategic Value Partners
- Carronade, M&G, Jupiter
Work highlights
- Advised the Steering Committee of the unsecured creditors of Orpea S.A. in its EUR 9 billion debt restructuring and one of Europe largest debt for equity swap.
- Advised the Steering Committee of the unsecured creditors of Casino Guichard Perrachon in its EUR 7.5 billion debt restructuring.
- Advised GoSport and GAP France on their insolvency proceedings.
Lawyers
Rising stars
Leading individuals
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Lionel Spizzichino