Department profile
Restructuring/Insolvency
Global Guide 2026 : UK
Rankings
Ranked Individuals
Ranked Individuals
Chambers Review
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Work Highlights
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Simpson Thacher & Bartlett advised the shareholders of the TalkTalk Group on the provision of new funding and asset contributions following the companies' restructuring.
Strengths
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Simpson Thacher & Bartlett's team provides technically robust, pragmatically tailored and commercial advice on the most complex and pressured situations.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalSimpson 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 respondentGlobalSimpson 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 respondentGlobalSimpson Thacher & Bartlett are first class and responsive.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalThe 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 respondentGlobal
Notable Practitioners
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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. I 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 respondentGlobalAdam’s knowledge, experience and leadership shine through.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalAdam is incredibly commercial, user-friendly and calm under pressure.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalAdam is outstanding, unflappable and laser sharp.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalAdam is a first call for complex international transactions that need a combination of experience and creativity. There is none better.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobal
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 brings a creative and thoughtful approach to every case, with an ability to think outside the box to provide tailored solutions.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalJames is technically very strong indeed. His advice is always thoughtful and considered.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalJames is technically excellent in restructuring and also insolvency, yet still very commercial.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalJames is technically brilliant, and his cerebral approach delivers results for clients.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalJames 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 respondentGlobal
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 is very commercial and excellent at explaining strategic options in easy-to-understand terms.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalMarc is killing it at the moment and is just a really great guy and a great lawyer.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalMarc's relentless attitude to client service has been crucial in achieving our goals.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalMarc's relentless focus on client delivery is exceptional, ensuring that client needs are met with the highest level of dedication.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobal
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 Smyth is one to watch.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalToby stands out due to his thoughtful and pragmatic approach, his outstanding client service and his exceptional deal leadership.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalToby stands out for his exceptional execution skills and the investment he places on building client relationships, ensuring that every detail is managed and all concerns are addressed.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobalToby 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 respondentGlobalToby is extremely personable, easy to deal with and willing to go the extra mile.
Restructuring/Insolvency respondentGlobal
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 Europe 2026
Practice area: Restructuring/Insolvency
Location: UK
View department profile for Europe 2026Band 2 UK 2026
Practice area: Restructuring/Insolvency
Location: London (Firms)
View department profile for UK 2026
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