Simmons & Simmons is a 'strong and reliable resource' for hedge fund managers and startups alike, offering fund structuring and launch expertise across a range of asset classes. Leading the team is Devarshi Saksena, who assists funds from launch onwards, with particular expertise in supporting startup managers. Lucian Firth is the key contact for seed deals and spinouts, and is also a specialist in ESG matters as they pertain to funds, including the UK's SDR. Hybrid structures are the domain of Sarah Crabb, whose expertise extends to digital assets, while Iain Cullen brings his considerable experience to bear when advising on the launch and structuring of new funds. Tom Pointer  and Kate Tracey advise fund managers on the establishment of co-investment and revenue-sharing platforms.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'The Simmons team is able to provide pragmatic and measured legal advice.'
  • 'The team is knowledgeable and prepared to take a risk-based view. The team has a strong bench and senior associates are able to step in and provide advice if their respective partners are not available.'
  • 'Availability, willingness to have brainstorming discussions and consider practical aspects and support to finding pragmatic solutions.'
  • 'The firm has a long-standing commitment to the alternatives/hedge fund sector which means it is a strong and reliable resource both for specific advice on pressing matters but also for longer term strategic preparation to meet global regulatory developments.'
  • 'When you need advice on a high stakes, bet-the-ranch type issue, Iain Cullen is who you need in your corner. Devarshi Saksena is a strong and reliable counsel for day-to-day complex fund projects. He takes the time to learn and understand our business and its people and also ensures that our favoured associates, notably Tom Pointer, are available to help out.'
  • 'Proactive advice with a wide view across the business. They help us function as a business and as a service provider in house.'
  • 'Devarshi Saksena is knowledgeable, responsive, discreet and wise counsel.'
  • 'Strong industry knowledge and connections, commercial approach, responsive, great depth in regulatory matters too.'

Key clients

  • Brevan Howard Capital Management LP
  • Man Group
  • GSA Capital Partners LLP
  • East X LLP
  • Theleme Partners LLP
  • Laser Digital Holdings AG
  • Forteus Investment Management UK LLP
  • Kite Lake Capital Management (UK) LLP
  • LMR Partners LLP
  • AKO Capital LLP

Work highlights

  • Acted as lead counsel on the second iteration of Brevan Howard’s co-investment program.
  • Advised the Man Group on the launch of a Cayman Islands domiciled master fund trading momentum-based trend following signals applied to the commodities market.
  • Acted as lead counsel to Ossington Investments, including negotiating an SMA with a large US allocator, launching its first fund, a Cayman master-feeder and advising on the establishment of its management structure.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame
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Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
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Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Devarshi Saksena

Other key lawyers

Lucian Firth, Sarah Crabb, Iain Cullen, Tom Pointer, Charlotte Thomas