Paul Sampson

Kirkland & Ellis International LLP

Overview

Creative, tireless, always looking for a solution, and very good at explaining tactical things to clients. Paul knows how chess pieces move: he's two to three steps ahead.”
- Legal 500, 2023–24

Paul is an investment funds partner in the London office of Kirkland & Ellis International LLP. Described by clients as the “go-to partner for complex transactions…and large-scale fundraisings” and “a compelling negotiator”, Paul represents sponsors in relation to the structuring, formation and operation of a broad range of private investment funds, across all the major alternative asset classes, with a focus on real estate, infrastructure, transportation and credit.

Praised by clients for being “a true pleasure to work alongside” and having “an incredibly sharp mind”, Paul has extensive experience in relation to a variety of commingled and fund-like structures, including funds-of-one, separate managed accounts, co-investments and joint ventures.

Recognised as someone who has “always provided real value-add to our business”, Paul also frequently advises sponsors in connection with GP-led transactions (continuation funds, recapitalizations, secondaries etc.), asset management M&A, new platform establishments and co-GP arrangements. 

Representative Clients

Arctos Partners, Arcus Infrastructure Partners, Ardian, Axa Investment Managers, Basalt Infrastructure Partners, Clear Sky Capital, CQS, Dream Asset Management, DWS, Fortress Investment Group, Heitman, JPMorgan Asset Management, King Street Capital, KKR, M&G, Macquarie Capital Principal Finance, NLC, Oaktree Capital, Pegasus Capital, PGIM, Queensland Investment Corporation, Realterm, Schroders, Slate Asset Management, Starwood Capital, Tishman Speyer, Triple Point and UBS Asset Management.

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Recognition

Paul is widely recognised as a leading funds lawyer in the European market. In Chambers UK 2025, clients praise Paul for his “experience, depth of knowledge and ability to see swiftly to the heart of commercial objectives”, as well as his delivery of “clear and timely advice, often with a warm sense of humour and always with a real sense of partnership in problem solving”. The publication also notes that clients appreciate Paul’s ability to “communicate very well with non-lawyers, make complex things seem simple…and ensure that we are being serviced to the highest standards at all times”.

In addition, Paul is ranked as a ‘Leading Partner’ by Legal 500 UK, Investment Funds (2024–25), following several years as a ‘Next Generation Partner’. He is described as being a “top-notch partner [who is] always searching for ways to improve his client’s position”. One source comments that Paul is a partner who “thinks about matters from the perspective of the client…and is exceptionally responsive, technically sound and great at client management”. Another observes that Paul has “an excellent grasp of the technical aspects of investment funds” and is someone who “may always be relied upon to go the extra mile”.

Paul was also recognised by Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star” (Financial and Investment Services Law) in 2013, 2014 and 2015.

Credentials

Admissions & Qualifications

  • 2010, Admitted to practice as a Solicitor of England and Wales

Education

  • The University of Law, LondonLL.B.First Honors2007
  • The University of Law, LondonLegal Practice Coursewith Distinction2007
  • The University of Law, LondonGraduate Diploma in Lawwith Distinction2006
  • University of BirminghamB.A., EnglishFirst Honors2005