Press Release

Haynes and Boone CDG Improves Rankings in Legal 500 UK 2019

October 31, 2018

Haynes and Boone CDG, LLP was again recognized in the 2019 United Kingdom edition of The Legal 500, published by Legalease. The firm improved its rankings in Oil and Gas and Shipping and also was ranked among recommended law firms in International Arbitration.

The Legal 500 series analyzes the capabilities of law firms across the world, based on feedback from 300,000 clients worldwide, law firm submissions and interviews with leading private practice lawyers.

“I am delighted with the additional recognition we have received from Legal 500 UK, as it reflects the fact that we have been able to add many capable lawyers in our London office and have been able to represent clients in a broader array of significant matters,” said Brad Richards, administrative partner of the London office.

The directory also singled out eight London lawyers for commendation: Senior Partner Simon Curtis and Partners James Brown, William Cecil, Andreas Dracoulis, Markus EslyGlenn Kangisser, Andreas Silcher and Melanie Willems.

In its overview of Haynes and Boone’s Oil and Gas Practice, which ranked among the top 34 energy practices in the region, The Legal 500 quoted clients who described the firm as “a major player in the energy market” and as “very client-focused and capable,” with “an ability to manage cases efficiently and effectively.” Glenn Kangisser was recognized for his “excellent legal and practical knowledge and considerable client skills.” Simon Curtis was also noted for his depth of experience in the energy sector.

The firm’s Shipping Practice, which ranked among the top 23 in the UK, also improved its standing in the latest Legal 500 UK listing. The publication quoted clients who recognized Haynes and Boone’s “diligent” team of lawyers who possess significant knowledge and experience in shipbuilding contracts and disputes. Simon Curtis was listed as a leading lawyer for Shipping and was commended for being “very experienced.” Clients cited William Cecil for being “calm and experienced”; Andreas Dracoulis for “building an excellent reputation for careful case management”; Andreas Silcher for being “very pragmatic and [providing] hands-on advice.” James Brown was also described as a “key figure” in the practice.

The Legal 500 complimented Haynes and Boone’s “excellent” international arbitration team and cited Partners Melanie Willems, Markus Esly, William Cecil, James Brown, Glenn Kangisser and Andreas Dracoulis as key names in the practice. The Legal 500 said: “The team received a significant boost with the hire of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP's international arbitration group in June 2018. This team is led by 'very experienced and capable' Partner Melanie Willems who focuses on the energy, engineering and construction sectors, and also includes Partner Markus Esly, who is rated by clients as 'very thorough and organised and a good team player', Counsel Robert Blackett and Associate Ryan Deane. Additionally, Legal 500 said: “Partners in the original Haynes and Boone team include William Cecil, James Brown, who is 'highly attentive and keeps clients informed'; and Glenn Kangisser who 'stands out for his heavyweight experience in the energy sector'. Andreas Dracoulis is also a key name. “

Haynes and Boone entered the market in 2016 by merging with Curtis Davis Garrard LLP. The firm has doubled its partner headcount in London since the merger, hiring lawyers with experience in arbitration, mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, finance, energy, and shipping.

To view the rankings, click here.