H1 2026 Private Equity Spotlight

Practice Snapshot
170+
Total Deals Across 25+ Industries
$80+ Billion
Total Global Deal Value
400+
Private Equity Lawyers Globally
Deal Characteristics
Team Expansion
H1 2026 saw the addition of five strategic lateral hires, strengthening the group’s capabilities and expanding its ability to support clients globally. Welcome to Anu Balasubramanian, Larissa Cespedes-Yaffar, Jamie Holdoway, Cory Lewis, and Chetan Sheth.
Awards & Accolades
#1 Most Active Law Firm Globally for M&A
Ranked the most active law firm for M&A by deal count by LSEG.
Tier 1 for Private Equity Worldwide
Named a top law firm for Private Equity by The Legal 500.
Leading Firm for Private Equity Globally
Recognition from leading publications such as Chambers, Mergermarket, Best Lawyers and ILFR100.
Individual Recognition
John LeClaire - Legal 500, Hall of Fame: Private Equity Buyouts (Middle Market)
Anu Balasubramanian - Private Equity News, Top Twenty Most Influential Private Equity Lawyers 2026
Katherine Baudistel - Los Angeles Business Journal, Leaders of Influence: M&A
Thought Leadership
Navigating Babel: When Global Growth Meets Local Rules in Equity Incentives
An analysis of the challenges private equity-backed companies face when implementing equity incentive plans across multiple jurisdictions.
How Generative AI Is Changing the Game for Deal Lawyers
An expert perspective on how generative AI is streamlining due diligence, drafting, and deal execution.
Deal Highlights
To stay up to date on our recent transactions, visit our Private Equity page under our News & Events section.
Contacts
- Brian C. McPeake

Brian C. McPeake
PartnerCo-Chair, Private Equity - Yash A. Rana

Yash A. Rana
PartnerCo-Chair, Private Equity - Chris Nugent

Chris Nugent
PartnerCo-Chair, Private Equity - John R. LeClaire

John R. LeClaire
PartnerCo-Chair, Private Equity - Chris Wilson

Chris Wilson
PartnerCo-Chair, Healthcare