Best Private Equity Lawyers in London

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Founded in 2007
30 people in their team
English
Urdu
Panjabi
Hindi
DV Solicitors is a multi-disciplined law firm delivering expert counsel to all its clients, whether they are businesses, entrepreneurs, or individuals. We offer legal and strategic support, as well as personal reassurance and guidance and we strive to find the perfect solution to the challenges you...
Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 1931
1,100 people in their team
English
Founded in 1931, Weil has provided legal services to the largest public companies, private equity firms and financial institutions for the past 90 years. Widely recognized by those covering the legal profession, Weil’s lawyers regularly advise clients globally on their most complex Litigation,...
Bond Adams Solicitors
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 2007
50 people in their team
English
We have in house expertise and structures drawn from experience.Our reputation for quality and service is combined with an excellent practical minded approach, which is coupled by a high level of investment in information technology. We carry out transactions with clients all over the world, with...
Taylor Emmet Solicitors (Sheffield)
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 1865
500 people in their team
English
Let's talk about usTaylor Emmet has served people and businesses for more than 150 years and is the largest independent firm in the Sheffield City Region.Built on long-lasting relationships, Taylor Emmet is a trusted firm with a reputation for being approachable, experienced, and able to get the...
istlondon legal ltd

istlondon legal ltd

15 minutes Free Consultation
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 2018
5 people in their team
English
Turkish
IstLondon Legal Ltd. originated in Turkey and has since grown into a globally respected law firm that provides progressive legal and business services. Our firm specialises in supporting startups secure investors, offering legal assistance throughout investment rounds, and providing business and...
Dalir Law Firm
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 2017
5 people in their team
English
French
DALIR is an international law firm authorised by the UK Solicitors Regulation Authority. The firm was founded by Dr Irena Dajkovic. She and her team have a combination of more than 20 years of private practice and in-house experience in commercial, corporate and regulatory laws. The firm's...
Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer LLP
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 1946
2,057 people in their team
English
At Arnold & Porter, we are client-driven and industry-focused. Our lawyers practice in more than 40 practice areas across the litigation, regulatory and transactional spectrum to help clients with complex needs stay ahead of the global market, anticipate opportunities and address issues that...
Lawlex Solicitors
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 2020
10 people in their team
English
Georgian
Russian
Urdu
Persian
Chinese
At LawLex Solicitors, we offer you a range of legal services that are built around what you need. Our team has worked with hundreds of people across the UK in most areas of UK Law. We know how important it is to looking after & guiding your case. LawLex’s specialist solicitors have the...
Extradition Law Firm
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 2014
17 people in their team
English
Russian
Belarusian
Ukrainian
Extradition Law Firm is a boutique law firm specializing in the areas of extradition defense, criminal defense, human rights and migration law in the Russian Federation, Ukraine, and internationally. Our English-speaking criminal attorneys also represent our clients in countries abroad, including...
Clarke Willmott Solicitors Bristol
London, United Kingdom

Founded in 1888
50 people in their team
English
Our solicitors in BristolWelcome to Clarke Willmott, BristolWith views of Bristol Bridge and Castle Park, Bristol is our largest office and we’ve been at home here since 1986. We’re an established part of the community and our central location helps us keep our ear to the ground. Over the...
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About Private Equity Law in London, United Kingdom

Private equity is a distinct area of investment involving the acquisition and management of companies that are not publicly traded. London is considered a leading global center for private equity, hosting a wide range of funds, investors, advisers, and regulatory experts. Private equity transactions in London typically involve pooled investments from institutional and high net worth individuals, which are then used to acquire, grow, and eventually sell or list businesses. The legal landscape for private equity in the United Kingdom is complex and highly regulated, requiring tailored legal support to structure deals, manage risks, and ensure compliance.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Private equity transactions are typically high-value and involve significant risk and complexity. People and businesses may require legal assistance for several reasons, including:

  • Structuring investment funds and negotiating fund documentation
  • Advising on regulatory compliance with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)
  • Handling complex merger, acquisition, and disposal processes
  • Diligence and negotiation of investment terms
  • Establishing partnerships and shareholder arrangements
  • Managing employment, management incentives, and tax considerations
  • Resolving disputes between investors or stakeholders
  • Ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering and anti-bribery laws

A lawyer can help guide you through every stage of the private equity process, from initial fund formation through to exit and beyond, providing peace of mind and protecting your interests.

Local Laws Overview

Private equity activities in London are governed by a blend of United Kingdom laws and European regulations. Key aspects include:

  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Regulates fund managers, placement agents, and advisers ensuring they comply with regulatory obligations.
  • Companies Act 2006: Sets out the legal framework for company administration, directors’ duties, and shareholder rights within private equity structures.
  • Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive (AIFMD): Impacts fund structure, investor disclosure, and risk management for private equity funds operating in or marketing to European investors.
  • Takeover Code: Applies to certain transactions involving UK public companies and may affect exit strategies or bolt-on acquisitions.
  • Tax Legislation: Governs matters such as capital gains tax, carried interest, stamp duty, and VAT liabilities for private equity work.
  • Employment Law: Key for dealing with management team matters, incentives, and any restructuring during or after acquisition.

Given the complex and often changing legal requirements, it is essential to stay informed and seek professional advice in relation to any private equity activity in London.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is private equity?

Private equity refers to investment in companies that are not listed on public stock exchanges. It often involves buying out or investing in privately held businesses, improving them, and later selling them for a profit.

What types of entities invest in private equity?

Private equity investments are commonly made by institutional investors such as pension funds, insurance companies, endowments, and high net worth individuals alongside private equity firms.

How does a private equity deal typically work?

A private equity firm raises funds from investors, identifies suitable target companies, negotiates investment transactions, helps grow the business, and eventually sells the investment through an exit event such as a sale or public listing.

What legal documents are required for a private equity transaction?

Common legal documents include investment agreements, shareholder agreements, loan notes, due diligence reports, and regulatory filings. Each transaction will have specific requirements based on the structure and parties involved.

Do private equity firms need regulatory approval in the United Kingdom?

Yes, private equity firms and related entities are generally required to be regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and comply with relevant UK and European financial legislation.

What are the main risks involved with private equity?

Risks include investment losses, regulatory breaches, disputes with partners or management, tax liabilities, and compliance failures. Proper legal advice helps to manage and mitigate these risks.

Can a lawyer help with cross-border private equity deals?

Yes, lawyers experienced in private equity can coordinate multi-jurisdictional transactions, address local law requirements, and collaborate with foreign advisers to ensure international compliance.

How is management incentivized in private equity-backed companies?

Management teams are often incentivized through share options, carried interest, or bonus structures to align their performance with the growth and profitability targets of the company.

What are the exit options in private equity?

Exit options for private equity investments include trade sales, secondary buyouts, initial public offerings (IPOs), or recapitalisations.

How are disputes typically resolved in private equity?

Disputes may be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation depending on the nature of the issue and the terms of the contracts involved.

Additional Resources

Several resources and organizations provide guidance and oversight for private equity participants in London:

  • Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) - The principal regulator for private equity funds and advisers
  • British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (BVCA) - Offers industry guidelines, standards, and training
  • Companies House - Resource for company registrations and filings
  • HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) - Tax guidance for investors and companies
  • Law Society of England and Wales - Find accredited private equity lawyers

Next Steps

If you require legal advice about private equity in London, start by identifying your specific needs, such as fund formation, regulatory compliance, or transaction support. Gather all contracts, correspondence, and background information relevant to your matter. Seeking an initial consultation with a qualified private equity lawyer in London is recommended. They can assess your situation, explain your options, and guide you on the next legal steps to take. Always check that your lawyer is experienced in private equity law and regulated by the appropriate professional body in the United Kingdom.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in London through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Private Equity, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in London, United Kingdom - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.