Endorsements
Chambers and Partners GLOBAL – 2006
The Firm
“Sources report that this firm, which is “quietly getting on with its work”, is a force to be reckoned with in Guernsey. The practice is anchored on a rock-solid foundation of offshore investment funds work, particularly property funds. It advises on the establishment of various vehicles to be used as platforms for structured products and general offshore banking work. It is also recognised as a leader in securitisations, and capitalises on the importance of insurance to the island through its insurance business assistance. Lawyers advise on trusts, company administration and other fiduciary activities, and the team is involved in developing and reviewing the local legislation, including acting as representative for the legal industry on the drafting of Guernsey’s IP laws. The well-rounded disputes group is one of the largest and strongest on the island, and hit the headlines as Guernsey legal advisers to Westminster City Council in its proceedings against Dame Shirley Porter.”
The Lawyers
"Although best known for general corporate work, including restructuring, David Moore, has scored some notable successes in funds matters. “One of those lawyers who will get every single detail”, according to competitors, he represented Hermes as Guernsey legal adviser on the establishment of the Hermes Absolute Return Fund (Guernsey). Having stood down as Managing Partner, the well-connected Peter Harwood is now free to devote more time to providing “top level commercial advice” on setting up and restructuring investment funds. He also handles acquisition finance and LBOs of publicly listed companies. He acted for Lloyds TSB on the establishment of a Guernsey limited partnership to act as a vehicle for the property portfolio of the Lloyds TSB pension schemes. New entrant Gavin Farrell’s funds work impressed commentators. He advised on the establishment of a £500 million closed-ended listed property fund for Insight Foundation Property Trust. Peter Ferbrache is said to be “experienced in the nuances of Guernsey law - and its judges”. The “capable and consistent” Jeremy Wessels acts in regulatory, restructuring and other disputes. Regarded as “measured and well prepared” he led the team advising Westminster City Council on Guernsey aspects of its action against Dame Shirley Porter. Head of Trusts, St John Robilliard, was commended for his straightforward approach: “He doesn’t waste time and he knows what he’s doing”.”
Client / Work Highlights
“The team’s representation of Hermes on a £540 million hedge fund has led to a significant rise in instructions from that client. Ozannes assists clients such as Morgan Stanley on their structured products, and advised First Rand International on the disposal of Ansbacher Holdings to Qatar National Bank. Other clients include: Bank of America, Barclays Bank, Close Fund Management (Investments); Genesis Holdings International; Global Capital Investors II; Guernsey Financial Services Commission; Hanson Finance; Insight Foundation Property Trust; Investec European Growth & Income Trust; Jersey Fisherman’s Association; N M Rothschild & Sons; Standard Life Assurance and Westminster City Council.
Extracts taken from Chambers and Partners UK 2006 edition
PO Box 186, 1 Le Marchant Street,
St Peter Port, Guernsey, CI, GY1 4HP.
Tel: +44 (0) 1481 723466 Fax: +44 (0) 1481 714653
Email: guernsey@ozannes.com
PO Box 733, 29 Esplanade,
St Helier, Jersey JE4 0ZS
Tel: +44 (0) 1534 723466 Fax: +44 (0) 1534 723465
Email: jersey@ozannes.com