Department profile
Restructuring/Insolvency
Europe Guide 2026 : UK
Rankings
Ranked Individuals
Ranked Individuals
Chambers Review
Provided by Chambers
Work Highlights
Provided by Chambers
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett advised the shareholders of the TalkTalk Group on the provision of new funding and asset contributions following the companies' restructuring.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
Simpson Thacher are very adept at handling complex international cases, particularly involving international capital providers. They're very commercially aware and creative in making trade-offs.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeThe team’s strategic approach, proactive communication and willingness to go the extra mile are second to none. It's hard to see any improvements when they're the best in the business.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeSimpson Thacher & Bartlett's team provides technically robust, pragmatically tailored and commercial advice on the most complex and pressured situations.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeSimpson Thacher & Bartlett are first class and responsive.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeSimpson Thacher have a very strong team of lawyers who are experienced in complex restructurings. They have highly talented lawyers coming through the ranks and are incredibly responsive to questions.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEurope
Notable Practitioners
Provided by Chambers
Band 1 
Band 1 Adam Gallagher
Adam Gallagher is head of the Simpson Thacher & Bartlett London practice. He is well versed in complex multi-jurisdictional restructuring matters, with experience acting for debtors and insolvency practitioners on administrations. He is also well positioned to act on high-profile mandates. Adam is a first call for complex international transactions that need a combination of experience and creativity. There is none better.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeAdam’s knowledge, experience and leadership shine through.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeAdam is incredibly commercial, user-friendly and calm under pressure.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeI have worked with Adam as my go-to adviser over many years. He is, in my view, the best in the market. He is always available and anticipates the issues in the most complex of situations.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeAdam is outstanding, unflappable and laser-sharp.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEurope
Band 4 
Band 4 James Watson
James Watson is a partner at Simpson Thacher who is highlighted for his expertise in complex restructurings and formal insolvencies. His experience includes both domestic and cross-border mandates. James is technically excellent in restructuring and also insolvency, yet still very commercial.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeJames is technically brilliant, and his cerebral approach delivers results for clients.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeJames is technically very strong indeed. His advice is always thoughtful and considered.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeJames is an excellent attorney who knows how to manage a complex stakeholder group. He is very commercially adept and is able to get transactions over the line when time is of the essence.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeJames brings a creative and thoughtful approach to every case, with an ability to think outside the box to provide tailored solutions.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEurope
Band 6 Band 6 Marc Hecht
Marc Hecht is often seen representing ad hoc groups in complex restructurings and recapitalisations. His advice to clients extends internationally.
Marc's relentless attitude to client service has been crucial in achieving our goals.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeMarc is killing it at the moment and is just a really great guy and a great lawyer.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeMarc's relentless focus on client delivery is exceptional, ensuring that client needs are met with the highest level of dedication.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeMarc is very commercial and excellent at explaining strategic options in easy-to-understand terms.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEurope
Up and Coming 
Up and Coming Toby Smyth
Toby Smyth has a growing reputation in the restructuring space. He regularly advises investors on cross-border matters.
Toby stands out due to his thoughtful and pragmatic approach, his outstanding client service and his exceptional deal leadership.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeToby is a great lawyer to work with as he has excellent client management skills and deep legal knowledge, and he gives trusted advice to all clients I work with.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeToby Smyth is one to watch.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeToby stands out for his exceptional execution skills and the investment he makes in building client relationships, ensuring that every detail is managed and all concerns are addressed.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEuropeToby is extremely personable, easy to deal with and willing to go the extra mile.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentEurope
Ranked Individuals at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP (4)
UK
Adam Gallagher
Restructuring/Insolvency
View profile James Watson
Restructuring/Insolvency
View profile Marc Hecht
Restructuring/Insolvency
View profile Toby Smyth
Restructuring/Insolvency
View profile
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP has rankings in the following guides
Band 2 Global 2026
Practice area: Restructuring/Insolvency
Location: UK
View department profile for Global 2026Band 2 UK 2026
Practice area: Restructuring/Insolvency
Location: London (Firms)
View department profile for UK 2026
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