The Legal 500 guide has recognized eight Haynes Boone practice areas and 15 lawyers in its 2026 U.K. guide, an increase in both categories from last year’s guide. Partners William Cecil, Nick Davis, Andreas Dracoulis, Emily Fuller, Lesley Gregory, Glenn Kangisser, Ellen McGinnis, Andrew Pannell, Jennifer Passagne, Mark Payne, Karma Samdup and James Tinworth, Counsels Fiona Cain, Mette Duffy and Teena Grewal, and Associate Chris Orford were all recommended by Legal 500 for their client credibility, strong technical abilities and strength in their fields.
Legal 500 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.
Davis, Gregory and Willems were also included in Legal 500’s “Hall of Fame,” which highlights “lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.”
Below is a list of the ranked practice groups along with client testimonials Legal 500 received:
Investment Fund Formation and Management – Hedge Funds
- “James Tinworth is an outstanding lawyer and leader, ably supported by his team.”
- “The team provides a solid combination of technical expertise and commercial awareness. They effectively translate complex legal concepts into practical business solutions while maintaining focus on commercial objectives. Their responsiveness is reliable, with consistent partner-level attention and efficient use of their broader team's expertise. The firm successfully delivers the capabilities of a larger practice while maintaining the agility and responsiveness of a boutique firm.”
Investment Fund Formation and Management – Fund Finance
- “Haynes Boone is one of three key lender-side FF practices in the U.S., and the London office is fast carrying that legacy into the U.K./European market. Ellen McGinnis' presence in London over the last year has added depth to the London bench. The London team is very able with Jennifer Passagne, and Emily [Fuller]'s connections in the industry (both clients and FFA/WFF) give her a great perspective on market trends and developments in the FF space.”
- “We predominantly work with Emily Fuller on lender-side transactions. Emily leads … with attention to detail but a commercial approach, which is the reason she's trusted by many of the banks and alternative lenders in the London market. She has an excellent pedigree in fund finance and therefore expertise far beyond other junior partners in the industry.”
Projects, Energy and Natural Resources – Oil and Gas
- “The team has significant experience in the oil and gas sector, both in the U.K. and abroad, and their incisive, helpful and prompt response to queries is always appreciated.”
- “Glenn Kangisser and Fiona Cain are always quick to respond with helpful advice. Their experience in the sector means they can be pragmatic as well as providing legal solutions for the situations you face.”
Transport – Shipping
- “They are well knowledgeable in their respective sectors and readily available when needed.”
- “William Cecil is detail-oriented, has a commercial way of thinking, and is knowledgeable and readily available when needed.”
Corporate & Commercial - Venture Capital
- “What differentiates the team is that they don’t approach issues solely from a legalistic standpoint—they engage with us like strategic advisors who understand our business goals. That level of alignment has been critical for us in fast-paced, often ambiguous situations.”
- “What has consistently stood out is a combination of commercial judgement, responsiveness and a deep understanding of the venture capital ecosystem—particularly in the U.K. and European markets.”
Corporate & Commercial - Equity Cap Mkts: Small & Midcap
Real Estate – Construction: Contentious
Dispute Resolution: International Arbitration
Investment Fund Formation: Private Funds – Firm to Watch
Projects, Energy & Natural Resources: Mining & Minerals – Firm to Watch
