The team at Hogan Lovells is ‘very experienced in handling insolvency and related matters’ and has been actively advising on defaults and disruptions in the China real estate sector, leveraging its pan-Asian capabilities to provide guidance on various restructuring and insolvency issues, with a particular focus on special situation engagements. Meticulously aligning its operational strategy with the needs of global creditors, the firm has curated a unique cohort comprising accomplished practitioners spanning diverse domains, including finance, real estate, and litigation. In a testament to this dynamic engagement, the team has been also actively engaged in seizing opportunities arising from Vietnam, representing investment funds channeling resources into this burgeoning market. Heading the team is Jonathan Leitch, renowned for his adept handling of a spectrum of restructurings, including the intricate frameworks of both US and UK restructuring plans. Leitch’s advisory proficiency extends to diverse stakeholders, including funds, bondholders, and alternative capital providers, underscoring his preeminence in steering non-contentious deliberations across the multifaceted landscape of Asia. Chris Dobby, an experienced litigator, is another key name to note. Dobby’s reputation is perpetuated through his representation of court-appointed liquidators tasked with navigating some of the most high-profile corporate collapses woven into the fabric of Hong Kong’s commercial history.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Very experienced in handling insolvency and related matters; great know how; very practical and down to earth.'
‘Chris Dobby has combined legal learning with sound common sense; always seeks to advance clients' interests to the maximum extent possible.'
‘Hogan Lovells restructuring team are truly seamless, and HK, VN, and Singapore offices work well together and bring differing personalities, expertise and experience. I really enjoy working with the Hogans teams.'
‘Jonathan Leitch having worked across the region is in my view the leading restructuring lawyer in HK and throughout the region. His ability to bridge personalities and drive results in contentious situations is remarkable. Jonathan's can-do attitude and relentless pursuit in order to obtain the best possible results for his clients is one of his one of many outstanding attributes.’
'Delivery of advice on complex restructuring matters in a commercial and concise manner.'
'As one of the few stand-alone restructuring teams in the market, Jonathan Leitch leads an excellent practice. They work seamlessly with their banking and finance and litigation colleagues and present a very joined up offering.'
'Jonathan Leitch is an extremely hard-working, thorough and calm practitioner. he is a pleasure to work along-side. He knows the Asia market very well and I would highly recommend him.'
'Derrick Lau is very thorough and knowledgeable and has an enviable ability to pivot between the finance deals and the restructuring practice seamlessly.'
Key clients
- Madison Pacific
- Ares SSG
- Kroll
- Oaktree Capital Management
- Argentem Creek Partners
- FTI Consulting
- Linden Associates
- Greater Bay Area Homeland Investments
- PricewaterhouseCoopers
Work highlights
- Advising an adhoc group of bondholders on the US$300m 5.25% convertible bonds due 2026 issued by No Va Land Investment Group Corporation, a real estate developer listed in Vietnam.
- Advising Madison Pacific as the Club Loan facility agent on the successful completion of the creditor-led restructuring of the China Fishery Group, one of the world’s largest producers of fish oil and fishmeal.
- Advising an adhoc group of holders of the US$300m due 2022 and US$200m due 2025 sukuks guaranteed by the Malaysian listed oil and gas services business, Serba Dinamik Holdings.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Jonathan Leitch