Herbert Smith Finance

Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) Finance is a core practice group within the global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills. It represents a significant part of the firm’s overall business and is recognized for its expertise across a wide spectrum of financial transactions and advisory services.

The practice focuses on advising a diverse clientele, including banks, financial institutions, private equity firms, corporates, and governments. Their lawyers possess in-depth knowledge of both domestic and international finance laws and regulations, enabling them to handle complex cross-border deals effectively. This global reach is a key differentiator for HSF Finance, allowing them to support clients with projects spanning multiple jurisdictions.

HSF Finance’s service offerings are broad and encompass various aspects of finance law. These include:

* **Acquisition Finance:** Advising lenders and borrowers on the financing of mergers, acquisitions, and leveraged buyouts. This often involves structuring complex debt packages and navigating regulatory hurdles. * **Asset Finance:** Providing legal counsel on the financing of specific assets, such as aircraft, ships, and infrastructure projects. They assist with structuring transactions, drafting agreements, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. * **Corporate Lending:** Acting for banks and companies in relation to general corporate lending, revolving credit facilities, and other forms of corporate debt financing. * **Debt Capital Markets:** Advising issuers and underwriters on the issuance of bonds, notes, and other debt securities. This includes assisting with prospectus preparation, regulatory filings, and transaction structuring. * **Restructuring and Insolvency:** Representing creditors and debtors in distressed situations, including debt restructurings, workouts, and formal insolvency proceedings. They help clients navigate complex legal and commercial issues to maximize recovery or achieve a successful turnaround. * **Project Finance:** Advising on the financing of large-scale infrastructure projects, such as power plants, transportation systems, and natural resource developments. This involves structuring complex financing arrangements, negotiating with government entities, and managing risk. * **Real Estate Finance:** Providing legal advice on the financing of commercial real estate transactions, including acquisitions, developments, and refinancings. * **Structured Finance:** Advising on the creation and implementation of complex structured finance products, such as securitizations and collateralized loan obligations.

HSF Finance is consistently ranked highly in legal directories, reflecting the quality of its legal services and the strength of its team. The practice is known for its innovative approach to deal structuring and its ability to provide practical and commercially focused advice. They are also committed to staying ahead of the curve on emerging trends and regulatory changes in the financial markets, such as sustainable finance and the impact of fintech.

The firm’s commitment to innovation and client service ensures that Herbert Smith Freehills Finance remains a leading player in the global finance legal market.