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Joseph A. Smith

Overview


Co-Head of Private Equity Funds. Represents private equity fund sponsors in connection with fund formation, the acquisition of portfolio investments and the implementation of exit strategies.

Joe represents private equity fund sponsors in connection with fund formation, the acquisition of portfolio investments and the implementation of exit strategies. In this capacity, he advises clients on securities, governance, compliance, operational and structural issues. Joe has extensive regulatory knowledge, and wide-ranging experience with all alternative asset classes, including LBO funds, venture capital and later-stage growth equity funds, energy and infrastructure funds, credit funds, real estate funds and joint ventures, fund restructurings and other complex secondary transactions, including GP-led recapitalizations and the disposition of large institutional portfolios. He has also represented many fund managers in connection with stakes deals, spinoffs and consolidations.

In addition to domestic representations, Joe has advised private equity clients in connection with the acquisition and structuring of portfolio investments throughout Europe, Latin America and Asia. His representation of asset managers in the real estate sector includes advice concerning REIT offerings and privatizations, partnership roll-ups and cross-border investments.

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Recognitions


  • Chambers Global
  • Chambers USA
  • Expert Guide to the World’s Leading Banking, Finance and Transactional Law Lawyers – Investment Funds, Private Equity
  • The Legal 500 US
  • New York Super Lawyers
  • Business Today Lawyer Awards
  •  Top 10 Pioneering US Private Equity Fund Formation Lawyers, 2023

Community


  • American Bar Association
  • New York City Bar Association
  • Queen Elizabeth II Garden at Hanover Square
  • Directorship: Theatre for a New Audience, 1990-2000

Credentials


Education
New York University School of Law, JD
Columbia University, AB

Admissions
New York

Prior Experience
Global Chair, Private Equity, Dewey & LeBoeuf
Chair, Private Equity, Dewey Ballantine