Private Equity: Buyouts: £500 million and above

David Higgins is widely acclaimed as a foremost talent in the UK private equity market. His leading practice is routinely engaged to advise in connection with major cross-border transactions. Higgins also sits on Kirkland's executive committee.

David is extremely hard-working, responsive and commercial.

Adrian Maguire is the subject of acclaim from across the market owing to the superlative standard of his private equity practice. He represents clients in a range of sophisticated deals, often involving European and US sponsors.

He is a fantastic lawyer with a friendly and approachable demeanour, making it all the more pleasant to work alongside him. I feel confident every time I put a delicate matter in Adrian’s hands.

Adrian is a standout in terms of his commercial acumen, the ability to help navigate complex situations and in driving a negotiation forward.

He is experienced, commercial, hard-working and always available.

Matthew Elliott maintains an excellent practice concentrated on the representation of private equity funds in a host of transactions. His reputation is particularly emphasised in the real estate space.

Matt is the most sought-after adviser in our industry, and embodies the focus and performance that Kirkland prides itself on.

Matthew and his team provide unparalleled service and commercial, pragmatic and strategic advice.

Matthew is extremely committed and dedicated. No problem is too large or too small, no situation is unsolvable and no deadline is impossible to meet.

Matthew is excellent at managing high-performing teams that work seamlessly together to achieve client objectives.

Alvaro Membrillera is widely respected for his close relationships with some of the foremost US-based sponsors in the market. Membrillera's matters have included acquisitions, disposals, minority investments and carveouts in a variety of European jurisdictions.

Alvaro is a world-class lawyer. He continues to offer nuanced advice, focused on market insights and deep experience-based knowledge.

Alvaro is incredibly commercial and technically able.

Stuart Boyd displays strength in representing private equity and other investor clients in a broad range of transactions. He is particularly known for his ability for take-privates, carveouts and acquisitions.

Stuart is very commercial, calm under pressure and creative in terms of solutions.

Stuart is knowledgeable and easy to work with.