Newton Legal has become a fixture on Bahrain’s local legal market. It is also registered as a foreign legal consultant, a license it has held since 2012. The firm was founded by
Joseph Huse, a former partner of a global elite firm, and operates out of Manama. The deal team is led by Bahraini lawyers, most notably managing partner
Aamal Al Abbasi, who upholds a strong reputation in the local market. The team is especially well known for its corporate practice, where it has a notable record on top M&A, joint-ventures, and corporate restructurings.
Highlights
Newton Legal has repeatedly acted as counsel to Ahli United Bank. In October 2022, working alongside Linklaters, the team represented the bank on its takeover by Kuwait Finance House (IFLR Middle East Awards 2023, M&A Deal of the Year), which led into supporting the bank with post-acquisition advice. Just over 12 months later, the team closed another deal for the bank, advising it on the sale of its two insurance subsidiaries, Al Hilal Life and Al Hilal Takaful, to Solidarity Bahrain. The deal comprised a public M&A and required complex regulatory advice and corporate transactional support.
Testimonials
“We have used the firm for its legal opinion on various complex matters. They are an excellent team led by a very professional partner.” (banking client)
“The team advised us on the legal documentation and regulatory process for the divestment of regulated business. Their knowledge, client service and approach to work stands out.” (M&A client)
“Aamal Al Abbasi is very good in client management” (banking client)
“I would recommend Ahmed Fardan for his work laying down a regulatory plan and drafting of transaction documents.” (natural resources client)
Key clients
Ahli United Bank, National Bank of Bahrain, Gulf Aluminum Rolling Company (GARMCO)
