Department profile
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

Restructuring/Insolvency

UK Guide 2026 : London (Firms)


Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

Rankings

About

Provided by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

Simpson Thacher's London restructuring team has established itself as a leading team in the European market. As consistently reflected in client feedback, we are recognised for our pragmatic, collaborative and solutions-oriented approach to the most complex stressed refinancings, liability management transactions and restructurings.

In keeping with the firm’s strong private equity heritage and platform, we advise a number of the world’s largest sponsors on distressed portfolio company situations. Alongside our sponsor work, we are trusted advisor to credit funds, banks and insolvency practitioners on some of the market’s most significant restructuring mandates. Given the inherently multidisciplinary nature of restructurings, we embrace the strength of Simpson Thacher's globally recognised practice areas and industries to deliver seamless, commercially-focused solutions. Our team is fully integrated with the firm’s heavyweight offerings in Banking & Finance, Competition, Infrastructure, Private Equity, Capital Markets, Funds, Funds Finance and Real Estate Finance and M&A. By virtue of our multidisciplinary strength, we are a one-stop shop that drives solutions and outcomes for our clients.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Restructuring/Insolvency - London (Firms)

Band 2

Band 2


What the Team is Known For

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett has a burgeoning reputation in the London restructuring and insolvency market. With strong roots in the US market, the team is often instructed by private equity clients on high-value, cross-border restructurings and distressed refinancings. The team also acts across the spectrum of liability management, stressed and distressed transactions – including for liquidity providers, credit funds and banks – and for insolvency practitioners and corporates on administrations and liquidations.

Work Highlights

Provided by Chambers

  • Simpson Thacher & Bartlett advised the ad hoc group of Quatrim Noteholders in the restructuring of the French headquartered international supermarket group, Groupe Casino.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • The 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 respondentUK
  • Simpson Thacher & Bartlett are first class and responsive.

    Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
  • Simpson 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 respondentUK
  • Simpson Thacher & Bartlett's team provides technically robust, pragmatically tailored and commercial advice on the most complex and pressured situations.

    Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
  • 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 respondentUK

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Band 1Adam Gallagher
    Band 1Adam Gallagher

    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’s knowledge, experience and leadership shine through.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
    • Adam is outstanding, unflappable and laser sharp.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
    • Adam is a first call for complex international transactions that need a combination of experience and creativity. There is none better.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
    • 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 respondentUK
    • Adam is incredibly commercial, user-friendly and calm under pressure.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
  • Band 4James Watson
    Band 4James Watson

    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 respondentUK
    • James is technically excellent in restructuring and also insolvency, yet still very commercial.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
    • James is technically very strong indeed. His advice is always thoughtful and considered.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
    • James 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 respondentUK
    • James is technically brilliant, and his cerebral approach delivers results for clients.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
  • Up and ComingToby Smyth
    Up and ComingToby Smyth

    Toby Smyth

    Toby Smyth has a growing reputation in the restructuring space. He regularly advises investors on cross-border matters.

    • Toby 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 respondentUK
    • Toby is extremely personable, easy to deal with and willing to go the extra mile.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
    • Toby 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 respondentUK
    • Toby Smyth is one to watch.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK
    • Toby stands out due to his thoughtful and pragmatic approach, his outstanding client service and his exceptional deal leadership.

      Restructuring/Insolvency respondentUK

Ranked Individuals at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP (3)

London (Firms)

Members

Provided by Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP

Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP has rankings in the following guides

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