James M. Schell

James M. Schell heads the interdisciplinary team in the Investment Management Group at Skadden, Arps that focuses on private equity funds, including leveraged buyout, venture capital and other merchant banking funds, as well as funds of funds and tailored or hybrid fund structures that combine features of traditional private equity and hedge funds.

The author of the leading book on the business and legal aspects of private funds, Mr. Schell has participated in the establishment of numerous private equity funds, representing a diverse mix of sponsors, lead investors and placement agents. He is also expe­ri­enced in repre­sent­ing U.S. and off­shore funds designed to invest in particular loca­tions such as Latin America, Europe, China, India, Australia and the Pacific Rim, and private equity funds formed to invest in particular industries such as bank holding companies, gaming, communications and infrastructure.

Mr. Schell also has extensive experience in representing clients who wish to organize or invest or participate in private companies that sponsor and manage private equity and hedge funds. His work in this area encompasses established private equity and hedge fund firms that need to be restructured to address succession, governance or ownership issues, as well as new investment management firms being established by individuals, family offices or traditional financial institutions.

Mr. Schell has been repeatedly selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America.

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