England - West Midlands • Finance
Gateley Legal team of ‘excellent communicators’ has extensive experience in handling both the contentious and transactional aspects of insolvency and restructuring. On the contentious side, headed by Mark Wilson, the firm has undertaken recent work that includes auditor liability, fraud claims and risk work, as well as actions against insolvency practitioners and officers. On the transactional side, headed by ’true market-leader’ Daniel French, the firm handles a variety of matters, including, but not limited to, security structures, regulatory issues and director’s duties matters. Its spectrum of clients ranges from equity funds, accountants, secured lenders and creditors. Victoria Portman adds to the depth of the team with her litigation expertise.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team at Gateley Legal are excellent communicators who go above and beyond to ensure the efficient progression of the cases in which they provide legal advice.’
‘Victoria Portman has an ability to cut through the issues on a case and get to the key points in order to find a resolution. She is responsive and very much puts her all into getting a positive result.’
‘Very experienced and commercial in approach. Good communication style and organised - they make it clear in advance the timelines, deadlines and set expectations for delivery or input.’
‘Responsive, technically strong. Always on hand to discuss through topics and cover practical application.’
‘Attention to detail and personal service set the firm apart in the local area. They can mobilise a diverse and multifaceted team to deal with the largest of matters when required to.’
‘The friendly and personal nature of communication. They are all razor sharp as well, which helps.’
‘Gateley's restructuring practice is a highly pragmatic and commercial business, whilst also being technically strong. They understand the wider commercial position on a transaction rather than focusing on unimportant legal points, which is essential to us where we typically complete a deal under significant time pressure.’
‘Daniel French is the reason we use Gateley, he is a true market leader and always "has the back" of his client, with risk always appropriately considered whilst demonstrating a clear understanding of the commercial position of any engagement.’
Leading individuals
Daniel is an expert insolvency and business restructuring advisor to insolvency practitioners, institutional lenders and major corporates. She has many years’ experience in the corporate restructuring and recovery market, with a particular interest in real estate issues arising within an insolvency context. He has experience in advising in many sectors such as property, manufacturing, retail, leisure and professional services.
Mark is Head of Gateley’s Complex and International Recovery Work unit. He has over 25 years of experience in all aspects of corporate insolvency, turnaround and restructuring acting for banks, venture capitalists, insolvency practitioners and corporates. She specialises in contentious insolvency matters often involving offshore entities and allegations of fraud or breach of duty. He also has a niche practice in bringing claims against and defending insolvency practitioners.
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Mark Wilson, Daniel French