The ‘fantastic team’ at Schulte Roth & Zabel International LLP tackles the full spectrum of hedge fund challenges, supporting new and established funds with the launch of new investment vehicles targeted at a variety of asset classes, including fintech and cryptocurrencies. The team is spearheaded in tandem by ‘absolute star’ Josh Dambacher, whose expertise spans hedge fund structuring and associated regulatory regimes in the UK and US, and Christopher Hilditch, a specialist in fund formation, regulation and fundraising. Lee Smith is a key contact for managers looking to restructure their operations and is also sought after for clients looking to launch managed accounts. Amy MacDonagh oversees the lifecycle of hedge funds in addition to providing general corporate advice.

Simmons & Simmons is a 'strong and reliable resource' for hedge fund managers and startups alike, offering fund structuring and launch expertise across a range of asset classes. Leading the team is Devarshi Saksena, who assists funds from launch onwards, with particular expertise in supporting startup managers. Lucian Firth is the key contact for seed deals and spinouts, and is also a specialist in ESG matters as they pertain to funds, including the UK's SDR. Hybrid structures are the domain of Sarah Crabb, whose expertise extends to digital assets, while Iain Cullen brings his considerable experience to bear when advising on the launch and structuring of new funds. Tom Pointer  and Kate Tracey advise fund managers on the establishment of co-investment and revenue-sharing platforms.

Akin's funds team advises hedge fund managers on the structuring and launch of their investment vehicles, working across the firm's network to provide support to clients operating across the globe. The practice is also well positioned to assist clients as they navigate a variety of regulatory regimes, including those in the US, UK and UAE. Jointly heading the team are Ian Meade, whose practice revolves around the structuring and launch of funds, and Tim Pearce, who assists hedge and credit managers, including startups, on fund launches and investment negotiations. Both are also able to provide regulatory advice. Hamish Annandale assists with the day-to-day issues affecting hedge and other alternative investment funds in addition to providing advice on fund launches and restructurings.

Dechert LLP is tasked with the restructuring of cross-border hedge fund structures, working alongside the firm’s teams in the US, Luxembourg and Ireland. The team, under the leadership of Gus Black, is particularly adept at handling new fund launches, including those being set up by start-ups, while also acting for seed funders in seeding deals. Abigail Bell takes the lead on such transactions and is also experienced in setting up revenue-sharing agreements, while Craig Borthwick assists with the structuring and launch of hedge funds. Mikhaelle Schiappacasse is also a name to note for fund launches, with further expertise in the regulations governing the marketing of funds and in the EU’s SFDR regime.

A&O Shearman specialises in advising hedge fund managers on the regulatory challenges they face in their day-to-day operations, including AIFMD and other EU regimes, in addition to the UK post-Brexit regulatory framework. Practice head John Adams supports clients with the structuring of investment vehicles and subsequent launches and is particularly well versed in the UK's ESG funds rules, having assisted in drafting them.

Arnold & Porter‘s hedge fund practice assists established funds in navigating regulatory regimes, notably AIFMD and MiFID, and is also able to support the launch of new fund structures and managed accounts. Practice head Simon Firth maintains a broad practice, advising clients on fund launches and their daily operations, in addition to providing regulatory guidance.

Startups and small hedge funds form the core of Haynes and Boone CDG, LLP 's client base, assisting with the drafting of fund launch documents and taking managers through regulatory considerations. James Tinworth has stepped into the role of practice head following the March 2024 departure of Ben Watford, advising on both corporate and regulatory issues affecting hedge funds, including assisting with matters tied to managed accounts. Christopher Orford is a name to note for fund transactions.