Private Equity
Europe Guide 2024 : Germany
Band 2
Contact number
+49 89 2030 6000About
Provided by Kirkland & Ellis
Kirkland has one of the most active and highly regarded private equity practices encompassing all aspects of this rapidly changing field. Our team of private equity attorneys has extensive experience in the formulation of innovative strategies for structuring acquisitions and financings of private and public companies, negotiated as well as unsolicited acquisitions, going private transactions, stock-for-stock acquisitions, spin-off transactions, and acquisitions of minority interests. Kirkland's private equity practice involves representing clients in many different industries, including buyers and sellers of both private and public companies. We also represent multiple private equity investors in “club” transactions.
Chambers Review
Kirkland & Ellis houses a renowned private equity practice based in Munich. Prominent and often international high-end private equity funds mandate the law firm for its strength in acquisitions and divestments of German targets. The team also assists investment banks and asset managers on bidding processes and public takeover offers. Its excellent connections in the USA and UK render Kirkland & Ellis a strong candidate for international investors and deals. The practice's sector coverage ranges from technology to manufacturing and retail, with the firm taking a prominent position in large-cap transactions.
Work Highlights
- Kirkland & Ellis advised Oakley Capital on the partial sale of its stake in Wishcard Technologies to EMZ Partners and IK Partners.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"They are excellent at explaining legal concepts clearly."
"The team are always available and very client-focused."
"Kirkland & Ellis has the most focused team in the German private equity market, with a deep and broad bench exclusively covering private equity."
"They are excellent at explaining legal concepts clearly."
"The team are always available and very client-focused."
"Kirkland & Ellis has the most focused team in the German private equity market, with a deep and broad bench exclusively covering private equity."
Notable Practitioners
Benjamin Leyendecker handles a large number of prominent transactions for well-known clients. He is particularly active for international private equity houses on acquisitions of German assets as well as public takeover tenders.
"He is always working towards the best commercial outcome for the client while keeping the risk perspective in balance."
"Benjamin is highly commercial, structured and clear in his drafting and thinking. He is also a very experienced tactician in negotiations."
"Benjamin has 100% dedication to his job, is always available and has a great commercial understanding."