McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes (MB&H) stands as one of the most prominent and longstanding law firms in The Bahamas, with a legacy dating back to 1945. Established by Donald McKinney, Sir Oswald Bancroft, and Sir Leonard Knowles, the firm has grown from a modest practice into a full-service legal powerhouse. Headquartered in Nassau, with additional offices in Lyford Cay and Freeport, MB&H offers a comprehensive range of legal services to both local and international clients. Its affiliation with Lex Mundi, the world’s leading network of independent law firms, further underscores its global reach and expertise.
Firm Overview
Over the decades, McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes has expanded its practice to encompass over 35 distinct areas of law. The firm’s commitment to excellence is evident in its diverse clientele, which includes multinational corporations, financial institutions, government entities, and high-net-worth individuals. MB&H’s attorneys are renowned for their deep industry knowledge, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication to client success.
Core Practice Areas
MB&H’s extensive practice areas include
- Corporate & Commercial LawAdvising on mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance.
- Banking & FinanceProviding counsel on banking regulations, loan structuring, asset finance, and financial restructuring.
- Litigation & Dispute ResolutionRepresenting clients in complex commercial disputes, insolvency proceedings, and judicial reviews.
- Trusts & Private ClientOffering estate planning, wealth management, and fiduciary services to individuals and families.
- Financial Services & RegulationGuiding clients through the intricacies of financial services laws and regulatory frameworks.
- Real EstateAssisting with property transactions, land development, and real estate finance matters.
- ImmigrationProviding services related to work permits, residency applications, and citizenship matters.
- Labour & EmploymentAdvising on employment contracts, workplace disputes, and labor laws.
- Family LawHandling matters such as divorce, child custody, and prenuptial agreements.
- Tax & TradeOffering counsel on tax planning, trade regulations, and customs compliance.
- Admiralty, Shipping & AviationProviding legal services related to maritime and aviation law, including vessel registration and air traffic regulations.
- Competition LawAdvising on antitrust issues, market competition, and regulatory compliance.
Notable Attorneys
MB&H boasts a team of distinguished legal professionals, including
- John F. Wilson, K.C.Senior Partner with extensive experience in litigation and dispute resolution.
- Sean N.C. Moree, K.C.Partner specializing in trusts, private client services, and estate planning.
- April N. TurnerPartner with expertise in financial services and regulatory matters.
- Kimberley A. RollePartner focusing on corporate and commercial law, recognized as a leading female lawyer in The Bahamas.
- Venessa L. SmithPartner known for her work in real estate and property law.
- Gia R. SandsPartner specializing in litigation and dispute resolution, recently elevated to Rising Star Partner status.
Global Reach and Affiliations
As the exclusive Bahamian member of Lex Mundi, MB&H has access to a global network of over 21,000 lawyers across more than 100 countries. This affiliation enables the firm to provide clients with seamless legal services for cross-border transactions and international disputes. Additionally, MB&H’s corporate services affiliate, MB&H Corporate Services Ltd., offers a range of offshore services for wealth management, further enhancing the firm’s capabilities.
Recent Transactions and Highlights
MB&H has been instrumental in several high-profile transactions, including
- Advising a major global company on a $1 billion credit agreement secured by various vessels operated by a Bahamian entity.
- Assisting in the development of a $200 million project in The Bahamas, creating innovative structures to meet the requirements of all parties involved.
- Representing executors in a $150 million cross-border estate with beneficiaries in diverse jurisdictions.
- Advising the second-largest cruise line company in the world on the acquisition of property in key locations in The Bahamas, facilitating the expansion of its touristic ventures.
- Negotiating and drafting agreements for the development of a private island owned by the cruise line company, with an investment of approximately $200 million.
- Assisting a New York-based fintech company in establishing a cryptocurrency exchange in The Bahamas, collaborating with government and regulators to explore this cutting-edge venture.
Commitment to Excellence
McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes is dedicated to providing high-quality legal services tailored to the unique needs of each client. The firm’s client-focused approach, combined with its extensive legal expertise and global affiliations, positions it as a leader in the Bahamian legal landscape. Whether navigating complex corporate transactions, managing wealth through trusts, or resolving disputes, MB&H offers innovative and effective solutions to meet the challenges of today’s dynamic legal environment.
Contact Information
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact
McKinney, Bancroft & Hughes
Mareva House, 4 George Street
P.O. Box N-3937
Nassau, The Bahamas
Phone +1 242-502-9750
Fax +1 242-328-2520
Email info@mckinney.com.bs
Website www.mckinney.com.bs