Nicholson Ryan Lawyers

Nicholson Ryan Lawyers is a specialist boutique corporate law firm based in Melbourne, established in 2017. The firm serves mid-market enterprises (ASX-listed and family owned), entrepreneurial businesses, and high-net-worth individuals in core areas of expertise: corporate transactions, financial services, and dispute resolution.

Core Services

The firm provides comprehensive legal support across corporate advisory and M&A, capital markets, debt financing, financial services, dispute resolution, and startup and venture capital matters. The team is particularly recognized for their expertise in the financial services sector, including fund management, consumer credit, and cryptocurrency regulation.

Web3 and Cryptocurrency Expertise

Nicholson Ryan Lawyers has established itself as experts in the space of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. They regularly represent Australia's pre-eminent cryptocurrency exchanges and funds, advising on:

• Blockchain and cryptocurrency related transactions
• Establishment of cryptocurrency exchanges and funds
• AFS licensing for crypto asset service providers
• Custody and investment arrangements for digital assets
• Regulatory compliance for crypto asset secondary service providers (CASSPrs)
• Australian credit licensing for crypto businesses

The firm has demonstrated thought leadership in crypto regulation, providing analysis and guidance on key regulatory developments such as the Federal Government's Consultation Paper on crypto asset secondary service provider licensing and custody requirements.

Key Strengths

The firm operates with streamlined, focused teams that are director-led, ensuring clients receive quality supervision and tailored solutions. Their philosophy is to partner with clients to understand their commercial objectives and deliver exceptional results through flexible and cost-effective legal services. The team comprises highly capable lawyers who adopt a humble, empathetic outlook while maintaining technical excellence and commercial acumen.

Notable Experience

The firm has advised on significant transactions including:

• Proptech Group Limited's $93.4 million take private by MRI Software LLC
• AMA Group Limited's $420 million acquisition of Capital S.M.A.R.T Group
• Praemium Limited's takeover of Powerwrap Limited ($70 million)
• Multiple cryptocurrency exchange and fund establishments
• Regulatory compliance matters for crypto asset service providers

Why Choose Nicholson Ryan Lawyers

With specialized expertise in cryptocurrency regulation, financial services licensing, and corporate transactions, Nicholson Ryan Lawyers offers clients the advantage of a boutique firm with deep domain knowledge in emerging financial technologies. Their lean cost structure enables them to provide best-of-breed services at compelling rates. The firm is a member of World Link for Law, an international network of law firms with 70 members in 47 countries, providing clients with global reach when needed.