Overview

Independent sponsors' influence is on the rise, due to the investment flexibility, diversity and project control they provide. We have been advising independent sponsors since they arrived on the M&A scene decades ago, providing the tools these market pioneers need to compete.

Leadership builds deal-to-deal strength

As early legal advisors to independent sponsors and the mezzanine lenders, committed funds and family offices that back them, we understand the unique challenges of these selective deals. We draw on the lessons of the past to create strong structures for the future. Our annual deal analysis features experience-based insights and benchmarking information. Investors and mezzanine lenders depend on this practical market snapshot to evaluate pricing and other terms.

Our high activity level in leveraged buyouts, add-on acquisitions, divestitures and other middle-market transactions gives independent sponsors a window on the preferences of their capital sources. We know what family offices, mezzanine lenders and private equity funds are looking for and how to keep them at the table. Experienced at representing all parties, we advise independent sponsors on:

  • Advisory and management fees
  • Commercial finance
  • Employment, benefits and compensation
  • Promote and carried interest
  • Tax planning
From initial investment to fund formation

As more investors embrace the independent sponsor model, our clients continue to break new ground. When raising a committed fund becomes an attractive option, our team uses decades of private equity experience to structure funds that align with investment objectives and long-term goals.