ALB ASIA MAY JUNE 2024 (INDIA EDITION)

3 ASIAN LEGAL BUSINESS – INDIA E-MAGAZINE WWW.LEGALBUSINESSONLINE.COM METHODOLOGY Several key factors are considered in the selection process for the listing: • Firms must have a demonstrably established presence in the Indian legal landscape, focusing primarily on the legal complexities of PE/VC deals and related matters. • Preference will be given to boutique firms with smaller partnership structures, as this fosters nimble responsiveness and personalised client attention. • Extensive experience and successful track record in handling complex legal matters across various sectors relevant to PE/VC transactions are essential. • Recognition and standing within the legal community for excellence in PE/VC-related matters is significant. • Emphasis is placed on firms with a reputation for prioritising client satisfaction and achieving successful outcomes in dealing with complex PE/VC legal challenges. This firm drives innovation and economic growth, ensuring India remains a key player in the global start-up ecosystem. Established in 2019, AP & Partners helps Indian tech start-ups navigate critical transactions like mergers and acquisitions (exits) and securing funding (fundraising). Its experienced team tackles complex deals across industries. A recent success includes facilitating $17 million in Series A funding for Toddle, a company developing tools for teachers. Its commitment extends beyond the tech sector. AP & Partners recently advised SitusAMC, part of the Stone Point Capital portfolio, on a complex $250 million business transfer involving the commercial real estate valuation business of Situs Group to Altus Group. This transaction impacted over 100 Indian employees who transferred to Altus Group. Specialising in PE/VC, M&A, and technology law, LawKNIT Partners is a fast-growing Indian law firm founded in 2022. With offices in Bangalore, Mumbai, and Indore, it advises a diverse clientele across various investment stages. Its PE/ VC practice advises clients across investment stages (early, growth, bridge) and sectors. It has represented Mount Judi Ventures in a $7 million investment in an education technology company (Convie Genius) and advised Cbrex Technologies on investor rights during their funding round. Established in Mumbai in 2018, Lex Consult tackles PE/VC complexities with a seasoned team. Its proactive approach guides clients through intricate deals, crafting tailored solutions for success across alliances, acquisitions, and domestic/international investments. This expertise is evident in its work with prominent players like Ivanhoe Cambridge (real estate) and Ascendas (warehousing) and extends to propelling start-ups like Snapmint (funding rounds) and fintech ventures like MYSA (investment). A Mumbai boutique firm established in 2016, LexStart Partners supports startups, venture capitalists, and incubators. Focusing on early and growth stages, its 35-person team tailors legal services for each client. It goes beyond legal counsel, leveraging its start-up ecosystem knowledge to offer strategic guidance throughout a start-up’s journey. Recent successes include guiding start-ups in securing funding rounds exceeding INR 120 crore across the B2C, FemTech, AdTech, as well as the fashion and apparel sectors. NovoJuris Legal, founded in 2008, operates in both India and the U.S. The firm provides advice on PE/VC players across various investment stages. It offers guidance on a wide range of investments, from seed funding to IPOs, for both investors and companies. NovolJuris Legal’s expertise is demonstrated in complex deals, such as Aurum’s recent $1.25 million acquisition. The firm conducted thorough due diligence, structured an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) for the acquired entity’s founder, and ensured a seamless property transfer. Its strategic advice and meticulous document drafting secured a successful integration for Aurum. Mumbai-based Pioneer Legal, established in 2019, provides comprehensive PE/VC legal services across diverse sectors like technology, education, and healthcare. It advises investors and target entities throughout the deal cycle, from structuring to post-closure compliance. Pioneer Legal differentiates itself with sector-specific expertise, proactive guidance, and support for both early and growth-stage companies. Its focus on customised solutions and leveraging its network within the Indian startup ecosystem positions it to deliver value for clients. This is evidenced by its work on high-value deals like advising the Arora family (promoters) in TA Associates’ $125 million investment in Synokem Pharmaceuticals and advising the seller in Carlyle’s $300 million acquisition of a majority stake in VLCC. Spanning four Indian cities and established in 2018, Triumvir Law focuses on early- to mid-stage start-ups, particularly in technology and media. It differentiates itself through a collaborative approach with partners directly involved in every client matter. This ensures personalised service and meticulous attention to detail. Its seasoned team provides clients with the agility and precision needed to navigate the competitive landscape. Triumvir Law’s expertise extends to venture debt funding, as evidenced by its work with Amber Internet Solutions on a recent round, and seed funding, exemplified by its successful representation of WLDD Private Limited in securing $1.25 million.

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