Corporate/M&A

Christo Els maintains an outstanding reputation for his work as lead M&A counsel, acting for major clients in the retail, telecoms and banking sectors. He continues to advise his clients in addition to his responsibilities as the firm's senior partner.

"Christo Els is an excellent corporate lawyer. He is very practical and reasonable."

Gareth Driver is regularly engaged by an array of high-profile clients, including those in the financial services and IT sectors, for advice on M&A transactions, delistings and corporate restructurings.

"Gareth Driver is an excellent corporate lawyer."

Johannesburg-based Colin du Toit has experience encompassing a broad range of corporate issues, including high-value M&A, governance and BEE.

"Colin du Toit demonstrates knowledge, constructive arguments and excellent negotiation skills. He has a great ability to present issues and propose solutions as well as having stamina and focus."

"Colin du Toit is a world-class M&A lawyer. He is deeply strategic and thoughtful in how he structures complex agreements. He is also a really strong and experienced negotiator."

Warren Drue has a solid portfolio of clients featuring private investors, financial institutions and multinational companies. His experience covers all manner of transactions, including acquisitions and corporate finance.

Lilia França stands out for her work on complex deals involving JSE-listed companies. In addition to general M&A, she has notable experience in disposals and BEE transactions.

"Lilia França is proactive and provides a balanced view with regards to various complex issues."

"She has excellent experience and expertise in dealing with corporate law."

"Her broad range of technical skills, in-depth knowledge of the law, problem-solving abilities and incredible attention to detail are perfectly matched with her overarching commercial mind set and understanding of commercial strategy, objectives and imperatives."

Mark Phillips is routinely consulted by a range of clients, from PE houses and financial institutions to listed corporate entities. Based in Johannesburg, he has experience in M&A, private investments and share subscriptions, among other areas.

"Mark Phillips is a phenomenal lawyer and a problem solver. He really knows how to think strategically in M&A and is a very good negotiator."

"He is very knowledgeable in the complete spectrum of M&A. He has strong drafting skills and a quick turnaround."

Safiyya Patel assists with a range of corporate deals and commercial agreements, including joint ventures, mergers and reorganisations. She is particularly respected for her counsel on BEE transactions and related corporate structuring.

"Safiyya Patel is readily available to handle queries and matters as they arise, and she drafts shareholder agreements with a quick turnaround."

"She is relatable and can simplify matters for a layman to understand fully."