Banking & Finance | UK

A&L Goodbody houses a market-leading practice that represents lender-side and borrower-side clients. The firm is capable of handling a wide range of complex, high-value matters including recent work on acquisition financing and LIBOR transition. The team also demonstrates considerable strength in the regulatory and compliance aspects of Northern Irish banking.

Arthur Cox has a full-service banking practice capable of handling a wide range of work for banks and private equity groups. Noted for its ability to advise clients in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, the team counts several specialists dual-qualified in other jurisdictions. The firm is particularly active on structured lending, property financing and loan book sales as well as acquisition and development finance.

Carson McDowell is a respected practice active on behalf of both domestic and international banks. The law firm advises on the full range of banking matters including acquisition finance, asset-based lending and project financing. It is particularly active advising clients on real estate finance, while regularly handling high-profile mortgage portfolio sales and complex refinancing. The team is capable of practising in both Northern Ireland and England & Wales.

Tughans has a widely respected practice known for its work in corporate finance and restructuring. The law firm is also strong on property and development finance as well as acquisition finance. The team maintains a strong, largely borrower-side practice, with experience in acting as Northern Irish legal counsel for multinational investors.

Pinsent Masons offers a team of lawyers qualified across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. The team is able to handle a range of matters for both borrowers and lenders. Its notable areas of expertise include financing third sector initiatives, such as social housing and educational developments, as well as advising on LMA documentation.

The Shoosmiths banking team in Belfast is a relatively new entrant to the market, having been formed in spring 2021 when two lawyers joined the firm from TLT. The group advises corporate borrowers and lenders on everything from acquisition financing through to real estate financing and asset-based lending.

McKees has an experienced and well-regarded team with recognised capabilities across the full range of banking and finance. The firm advises a number of leading international and domestic lenders. It regularly acts on cross-border acquisition finance matters and is also experienced in advising on real estate and development finance.