Manolete Welcomes New Era Under Mena Halton
Steven Cooklin, founder and CEO of Manolete Partners, has stepped down after a remarkable 40‑year tenure in the litigation funding sector, marking the end of a defining leadership era for…
Steven Cooklin, founder and CEO of Manolete Partners, has stepped down after a remarkable 40‑year tenure in the litigation funding sector, marking the end of a defining leadership era for…
Theo Ai has elevated litigation strategist Sarah Johansson to Head of Legal Product, a move the Palo Alto-based start-up says will help turn its AI-driven prediction engine into an everyday…
Fieldfisher has recruited litigation-funding specialist Verity Jackson-Grant to the newly created post of Head of Commercial Pricing, underscoring the firm’s intent to capitalize on sophisticated fee and finance structures in…
Boutique disputes firm CANDEY has made a strategic addition to its partnership ranks, bringing on former Burford Capital executive Robin Ganguly. With a career that spans high-stakes litigation and cross-border…
Marking a significant expansion of its European footprint, Geradin Partners has announced the opening of new offices in Berlin and Cologne, bolstered by the arrival of Thomas Höppner from Hausfeld…
Victory Park Capital (VPC), a global alternative asset manager specializing in private credit, has announced that Justin Maleson will expand his role to Managing Director, co-heading the firm’s legal credit investment strategy. The promotion underscores VPC’s ongoing investment in its legal finance capabilities and follows Maleson’s initial appointment in 2024 as Assistant General Counsel.
An announcement from Victory Park Capital details Maleson’s new responsibilities, which include sourcing, analyzing, and managing investments across legal assets, while maintaining oversight of the firm’s legal operations. He joins Chad Clamage in co-leading the strategy, working alongside team members Hugo Lestiboudois and Andrew Pascal, under the continued oversight of VPC CEO and founder Richard Levy.
Maleson brings a strong background in litigation finance and commercial law to the position. Before joining VPC, he served as a director at Longford Capital, where he specialized in originating and managing litigation funding transactions. His earlier tenure as a litigation partner at Jenner & Block further deepened his exposure to complex legal matters, equipping him with the expertise needed to navigate the nuanced legal credit space.
VPC’s legal credit team emphasizes an asset-backed lending model, prioritizing downside protection and predictable income streams. The firm aims to capitalize on inefficiencies within the legal funding market by leveraging its internal expertise and broad network of relationships. With Maleson’s appointment, VPC signals its intent to further scale its legal credit strategy, positioning itself as a key player in the evolving legal finance sector.
Maleson’s elevation comes at a time of increasing sophistication in litigation finance, where experienced legal minds are playing a pivotal role in portfolio construction and risk management. As VPC bolsters its leadership, the move may foreshadow further institutionalization of legal asset investing and heightened competition in a maturing market segment.
Siltstone Capital, a leading multi-strategy alternative investment firm, is pleased to announce that Jim has joined the firm as a Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of its legal finance strategy. Jim brings extensive experience in legal finance and strategic investment management, enhancing Siltstone Capital’s capabilities in deploying sophisticated, high-value legal investment opportunities globally.
Jim previously served as the Chief Operating Officer at Westfleet Advisors and was Co-Chief Investment Officer – US at the global dispute finance company, Omni Bridgeway. In that role, he played a key role in developing the firm’s U.S. presence, co-leading its investment strategy, and building out a top-tier legal finance team. At Siltstone, Jim will utilize this extensive experience to guide investment strategy, identify high-quality opportunities, and foster team growth to achieve strong returns for investors.
Robert Le, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Siltstone Capital, stated: “We are delighted to welcome Jim to our leadership team. His deep expertise in legal finance investment strategy, combined with his proven ability to build exceptional teams, positions Siltstone strongly as we launch our next fund. Jim’s arrival marks an exciting phase for our firm, enhancing our capacity to execute sophisticated investment strategies and deliver outstanding results for our investors.”
Jim commented, “I’m excited to join the Siltstone team and collaborate closely with Robert and the outstanding professionals at Siltstone Capital. Our combined expertise positions us exceptionally well to pursue compelling investment opportunities in the global legal finance market. I look forward to leading our investment strategy and contributing to the growth and success of an excellent team at Siltstone.”
For more information about Siltstone Capital and its investment strategies, visit https://siltstonecapital.com.
In an announcement posted by Invenio LLP, the law firm revealed the appointment of Drew Kelly in an Of Counsel role. Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge to the Invenio…
Angeion Group, a leading provider of legal notice and settlement administration services, today announced the addition of three independent members to its Board of Directors. This milestone underscores Angeion’s strategic growth trajectory and commitment to strong governance, innovation, and operational excellence.
The newly appointed board members are three highly accomplished executives whose leadership has shaped the modern legal and professional services industries:
“This board brings together an exceptional combination of legal acumen, business strategy, and operational expertise,” said Lee Minkoff, Managing Director at Renovus Capital Partners, the private equity sponsor of Angeion Group. “Angeion is operating at the forefront of legal administration, and this step reinforces our confidence in the company’s leadership, vision, and continued trajectory of operational excellence and growth.”
Our growth has always been fueled by bold thinking and relentless execution, and the addition of Rich, David, and Lou takes that to the next level,” said Steven Weisbrot, President and CEO of Angeion Group. “Each has fundamentally shaped the way legal services are delivered – from litigation finance to legal tech and professional services at scale. Their insights will help us sharpen our strategy, deepen client impact, and push the boundaries of legal administration.
About Angeion Group
Angeion Group is an industry leader in legal notice and settlement administration, known for its use of technology, analytics, and hands-on client support to execute efficient, compliant, and effective legal administration services. With a proven track record in class action, mass tort, and bankruptcy administration, Angeion continues to redefine industry standards through precision, transparency, and innovation.
In a post on LinkedIn, the Australian litigation funder Clover Risk Funding announced the appointment of Lisa Brentnall as Chief Investment Officer. Brentnall joins Clover Risk Funding from CASL, where…
Recent years have been described as a time of substantial growth and expansion in the global litigation funding market, yet new reporting suggests that one of the industry’s most well-known…
Court House Capital is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Hourn as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 14 April 2025. This strategic leadership transition marks an exciting new chapter for the company as Michelle Silvers, who has served as CEO since 2020, steps into the role of Chairman of the Board.
Michelle Silvers has been instrumental in Court House Capital’s growth, innovation, and performance since its inception. Her move into the Chairman position reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to visionary leadership and long-term success.
“Leading Court House Capital has been an incredible journey, and I am proud of what we’ve built. I look forward to continuing to support the company’s future in a strategic capacity as Chairman.” Michelle Silvers, Chairman, Court House Capital
Incoming CEO Matt Hourn brings over 25 years of experience in commercial litigation and is cofounder of Court House Capital. His strong commercial insight and legal expertise, leadership capabilities, and innovative vision make him well-suited to drive the next phase of growth.
“I am honoured to step into the role of CEO and build on the strong foundation Michelle has established,” Matt Hourn, Chief Executive Officer, Court House Capital.
This transition underscores the firm’s commitment to continuity and strategic evolution, positioning Court House Capital for sustained success.
ABOUT COURT HOUSE CAPITAL
Court House Capital is a leading litigation funder focused on cases in Australia and New Zealand. Led by industry founders, with Australian based capital, the team is renowned for expertise, agility and collaboration. courthousecapital.com.au
Rachel McCarthy has announced that she is taking on a new role as Executive Director of The Milestone Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that helps people suffering due to a…
Manchester-based litigation finance firm IQuote Limited has bolstered its senior leadership team with the appointment of a new Director of Campaigns, reinforcing its commitment to expansion and innovation in the sector.
Stepping into the role is Katie Doherty, an experienced litigation finance specialist with a track record of driving growth and operational success.
She has held senior positions at various law firms prior and has worked alongside IQuote CEO Craig Cornick for over 15 years across multiple roles.
Katie said she was both delighted and grateful for the opportunity and expressed a keen desire to get started as soon as possible.
“It’s an incredibly exciting time for IQuote as we continue expanding our legal tech partnerships and investing in new opportunities,” Katie said. “This is a fast-moving industry, and I’m looking forward to leading campaigns that will drive the firm’s next stage of growth.
“I can’t wait to get stuck in. IQuote has evolved massively in respect of its business offerings, the firms we are investing in, and the different campaigns we are now exploring. You have to be constantly thinking on your feet; there’s never a dull moment.”
Originally aspiring to become a solicitor, Doherty began her career in legal administration before transitioning into finance and business strategy. She first collaborated with Craig in 2010, playing a key role in business operations, asset management, and claims handling.
Katie thanked her team at IQuote for all their help and support.
“They have all been fantastic, and I have so much admiration for Craig,” she said.
“For him nothing is impossible; if you say, ‘it can’t be done,’ he will immediately tell you that it can and how you can make it happen.”
Craig Cornick, CEO of IQuote Limited, said: “Katie has been instrumental in the success of multiple businesses I’ve led, and her ability to think strategically while keeping operations running smoothly is unmatched.
“She knows how to build and execute campaigns that deliver real results, and that’s exactly what we need as we continue to scale. Her expertise in litigation finance, combined with her hands-on leadership style, makes her a perfect fit for this role.
“She’s got an incredible work ethic also. From the very start, Katie has always been willing to roll up her sleeves and do whatever it takes to get the job done.
“Whether it was managing complex operations or jumping in to solve unexpected challenges, she’s always been a problem-solver. That kind of determination is what sets her apart and why I’m confident she’ll drive real impact in this position.”
In an announcement posted on LinkedIn, Gallagher announced the appointment of Harshiv Thakerar as Head of Disputes Risk based in the firm’s Middle East office. Thakerar’s new position will see…
Litigation finance leader, Nera Capital, has reinforced its executive team with the appointment of legal heavyweight James Benson as General Counsel, marking a significant milestone in the firm’s expansion.
Benson, an Oxford-educated solicitor with a formidable track record in banking and financial law, brings decades of expertise to the role.
His career includes key positions at Gately PLC and most recently, Handelsbanken, where he served as Head of Legal, shaping complex financial strategies and high-stakes legal frameworks.
James said: “Joining Nera Capital is an incredible opportunity, and I look forward to leveraging my experience to drive innovation and deliver impactful solutions for our clients.
“In my profession, I’ve seen firsthand how strategic legal funding can unlock access to justice. At Nera Capital, I’m excited to play a key role in making that happen on a larger scale.
“Litigation finance is more than numbers – it’s about people, access to justice, and creating opportunities where they’re needed most. I am excited to bring my expertise to Nera Capital and work alongside a team that shares this vision.”
He continued: “Nera Capital stands at the forefront of the sector, and I’m honoured to be part of such a dynamic team. Together, we will continue to set new standards in the industry.”
During his career, James has become an expert in navigating financial services, developing tailored specialisms including loan arrangements, deal structuring, fixed and floating security and intercreditor agreements.
The new hire is the latest in a series of milestones for Nera, who last month surpassed $100 million in investor returns within 28 months, thereby firmly establishing itself as a leading light in the legal finance sector.
The company has numerous other legal and financial successes under its belt, including funding a plethora of highly successful cases across the globe.
Director of Nera Capital Aisling Byrne highlighted that she was pleased and honoured to welcome James to the management team.
“James’ depth of experience in both legal and financial services makes him an invaluable addition to our leadership team as we continue to drive innovation in litigation finance,” she said.
Certum Group, the first and only company in America providing both litigation finance and insurance solutions for companies facing the uncertainty of litigation, has added Patrick Dempsey as Director of Commercial Litigation Strategy. Mr. Dempsey will oversee all facets of Certum’s commercial litigation business, including originating, structuring, and monitoring single-case financing products and portfolio solutions for law firms, corporates, and other litigants. Mr. Dempsey will also help build out Certum’s consulting services for companies that are looking to invest in or value legal assets but may not have the requisite underwriting expertise.
A veteran of the legal finance industry, Mr. Dempsey joins Certum from Burford Capital, where he served as a director responsible for originating new investments with law firms and corporates alike. Prior to Burford, Mr. Dempsey served as the Chief Investment Officer of Therium Capital Management’s U.S. operations. In private practice, Mr. Dempsey was a litigator at Hogan Lovells and Proskauer, where he regularly took cases through to trial and arbitral hearings across a broad number of industries.
“We are thrilled to have Patrick join our team,” said Joel Fineberg, Certum’s founder and managing director. “His extensive experience across multiple industries and complex commercial areas, along with his ability to build strong relationships with counterparties, will be a very valuable asset as we continue to innovate in the ever-evolving world of litigation funding.”
“I am excited to join the fantastic team at Certum,” said Mr. Dempsey. “I believe the opportunity is substantial. With its full suite of funding solutions and insurance products, Certum is extremely well-positioned for this next phase of growth within the industry. I’m looking forward to helping more clients figure out how Certum can help them achieve their litigation and business goals.”
Certum Group created the first and only litigation risk transfer platform that combines insurance, premium finance, and litigation funding to provide tailored solutions for companies, litigants, and law firms. Founded more than 10 years ago, the team is comprised of former litigators, judicial clerks, actuaries, and financial professionals who design risk transfer and funding solutions to meet legal, business, and financial objectives.
Mr. Dempsey earned his J.D. from Tulane University Law School and his B.S. from the University of New Orleans.
About Certum Group
Certum Group provides bespoke solutions for companies facing the uncertainty of litigation. We are the leader in providing comprehensive alternative litigation strategies, including class action settlement insurance, litigation buyout insurance, judgment preservation insurance, adverse judgment insurance, contingency fee insurance, capital protection insurance, litigation funding, and claim monetization. Our team of experienced former litigators, insurance professionals, and risk mitigation specialists helps companies remove the financial and operational volatility arising out of litigation by transferring the outcome risk. Learn more at www.certumgroup.com.
An announcement from Omni Bridgeway confirms the appointment of David Breeney as Global Chief Financial Officer (GCFO), having officially taken over the role on 1 March 2025. The appointment sees…
The beginning of 2025 has already been a busy few months for Heirloom Fair Legal, with the funder expanding to the UK through its acquisition of Hayes Connor Solicitors last…
The involvement of litigation funders in intellectual property and patent disputes has never been without controversy, with the President’s choice of nominee to lead the country’s patent office only serving…
In a series of posts on LinkedIn, The Association of Litigation Funders of Australia (AALF) announced that it has welcomed HKA Global and Vie as its newest Associate Members. With…
Deminor announced that Bertrand Beauchesne has been appointed as Group Finance Director, bringing over 20 years of experience in financial management and strategic planning across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the…
In a series of posts, Litigation Lending announced the new appointments of Leo Argy and Maximilian Heffernan, who are both joining the funder as Investment Managers. Argy brings over 25…
Victory Park Capital (“VPC”), a global alternative investment firm specializing in private credit, today announced that Hugo Lestiboudois has joined the firm as Principal. Mr. Lestiboudois, who brings over 10 years of experience in developing and operating legal finance strategies, will work alongside Richard Levy, VPC CEO, CIO & Founder, and Chad Clamage, Managing Director, to advance the firm’s legal credit strategy.
“We welcome Hugo to the firm with great excitement,” said Levy. “I am confident that his experience will help us unlock further momentum in the rapidly expanding market for legal investing and address the growing demand for innovative funding solutions.”
VPC’s legal credit team, comprised of veteran litigators, legal finance investors, and seasoned private credit professionals, takes an asset-backed lending approach to the legal asset class, emphasizing downside protection and current income streams. With its deep expertise and extensive industry relationships, VPC is well-positioned to capitalize on market inefficiencies and pursue opportunities across the full spectrum of legal asset types and structures.
“I am thrilled to join the VPC team and help further scale the legal credit strategy,” Lestiboudois said. “With a highly diversified portfolio of asset-backed legal assets and robust risk management controls, VPC’s disciplined and innovative approach creates resilience against market volatility and enables us to excel in the legal credit market.”
Previously, Mr. Lestiboudois was a principal at Syz Capital where he oversaw the firm’s legal finance strategies. Prior to that, Mr. Lestiboudois led the Illiquid Investments Desk at IVO Capital Partners where he focused on European distressed and structured credit transactions. Earlier in his career, Mr. Lestiboudois focused on asset-backed financing in his role at AgFe and held analyst positions at Capital Management and BlackRock.
About Victory Park Capital
Victory Park Capital Advisors, LLC (“VPC” or the “Firm”) is a global alternative asset manager that specializes in private asset-backed credit. In addition, the Firm offers comprehensive structured financing and capital markets solutions through its affiliate platform, Triumph Capital Markets. The Firm was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Chicago. In 2024, VPC became a majority-owned affiliate of Janus Henderson Group. The Firm leverages the broader resources of Janus Henderson’s 2,000+ employees across offices in 24 cities worldwide. VPC is a Registered Investment Advisor with the SEC. For more information, please visit www.victoryparkcapital.com.
As LFJ reported last month, Heirloom Fair Legal began the year by announcing that it is acquiring Hayes Connor Solicitors and launching its own law firm, HFL Law. Since then,…
In a series of posts across LinkedIn yesterday, Burford Capital announced a range of promotions and appointments across its operations in the U.S. and UK, with promotions handed out in…
In the ongoing struggle to carve out opportunities within the competitive legal funding market, smaller regional funders are increasingly looking to technology-oriented strategies to try to grow their operations and…
Leading litigation finance firm Nera Capital is bolstering its already flourishing team, with several senior hires. A new In-House General Counsel, Managing Director of Commercial Claims Division and Financial Controller are currently being recruited to bolster the management team with new experienced talent.
In addition, the firm has already acquired a new financial analyst and the firm’s audit team is also branching out, with new hires expected to join its Manchester and Dublin offices. Nera’s success comes after a period of sustained growth in the litigation finance market.
Director of Nera Capital Aisling Byrne shared her thoughts on the expanding team:
“At Nera Capital, we believe that strong leadership and diverse talent are the cornerstones of our success. We don’t just work together – we grow together. Nera Capital is a place where passion, strategy, and collaboration meet, creating an environment where every team member can thrive and make a meaningful impact. I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved so far. Our expansion isn’t just about numbers – it’s about nurturing a vibrant culture of collaboration and innovation that empowers us to take major steps forward in the litigation finance space.”
The firm ended the year on an undoubtable high with the introduction of its Access to Justice Fund to assist those in need of legal assistance or financial support.
In yet another successful funding deal, Nera also managed to procure a further $25 million to boost UK consumer protection claims and ensure increased access to justice for individuals seeking redress. The firm also recently announced the opening of its Dutch office in Amsterdam as it takes on more work in the Netherlands, adding to its locations in Dublin and Manchester.
Aisling added: “With every fresh perspective we welcome, we are igniting a powerful movement in litigation finance – one driven by passion, purpose, and an unwavering dedication to ensuring that justice is within reach for all.
“Together, we will continue to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible in litigation finance. But most importantly, we will continue to make a difference and increase access to justice for all.
She added: “I’d like to thank our amazing team and partners in the UK, US and across Europe for greatly contributing to our success. We look forward to what the future holds.”
Stephen Kyriacou, Managing Director and Senior Lawyer at Aon, is stepping down from his role effective immediately. Kyriacou has joined Willis Tower Watson as Head of Litigation and Contingent Risk…
Thomas Jones announced that he has joined TRGP Capital as a Managing Director. Prior to his arrival at TRGP, Jones served as Managing Director at Legis Finance, a lawyers merchant…