Levine Leichtman Capital Partners Expands Portfolio with Signature Resolution Acquisition

In a strategic move, Levine Leichtman Capital Partners (LLCP), a renowned private equity firm based in Los Angeles, has officially acquired Signature Resolution, LLC. This acquisition marks a significant milestone as Signature stands out as a leading provider of high-complexity private dispute resolution services.

Signature Resolution has cultivated a robust network, connecting law firms, insurance carriers, and corporations with a diverse range of about 100 mediators and arbitrators. This company's growth in the private dispute resolution market is fueled by its unique, neutral-centric platform, designed to draw top-tier professionals for intricate cases across multiple practice areas.

The integration of LLCP's investment is expected to propel Signature's geographic expansion, enhance its platform capabilities, and broaden equity participation among its affiliates. Crucially, the four founders—Dario Higuchi, Michael Latin, Louis Meisinger, and Richard Stone—will continue to lead Signature and maintain significant stakes in the company, ensuring continuity and expertise in its operations.

Matthew Rich, a partner at LLCP, expressed excitement about the partnership, noting, "We are thrilled to partner with Signature, a true industry leader with one of the strongest panels of mediators and arbitrators in the country. The founders have built an exceptional platform by prioritizing service, support, and quality for each neutral, which has driven nearly a decade of uninterrupted growth. We look forward to supporting the team as they continue to invest in their neutrals and expand Signature's footprint beyond California."

Ethan Caskey, Managing Director at LLCP, emphasized the compelling value proposition Signature offers to both clients and neutrals. He highlighted that the attractive growth prospects made this partnership ideal for LLCP, reinforcing the firm’s focus on outsourced legal services as a core investment vertical. "We're excited to leverage our experience in the sector to accelerate Signature's continued expansion and long-term success," Caskey remarked.

Dario Higuchi, Co-Founder and CEO of Signature, reiterated the positive alignment between LLCP's mission and Signature's growth strategy. "We believe LLCP is the right partner to support our next phase of growth. Their experience scaling professional services platforms aligns well with our plans to expand beyond California while remaining deeply committed to our neutral-focused model. With LLCP's support, we can further invest in our platform and continue to deliver the highest level of service our neutrals rely on to resolve the most complex disputes," he said.

This acquisition also marks the tenth platform investment made through LLCP's Lower Middle Market Fund III. The firm has a commendable history of investing in the legal services sector, with previous engagements including Expert Institute, Law Business Research, and Resolution Economics, among others. Such investments underline LLCP's strategic approach to enhancing its portfolio and impact within the legal domain.

LLCP was advised in this transaction by Honigman LLP, while Signature received counsel from Stubbs Alderton Markiles LLP.

About Levine Leichtman Capital Partners

Levine Leichtman Capital Partners is a globally recognized middle-market private equity firm. With a track record spanning 41 years, LLCP has developed an investment strategy that combines structured private equity with debt and equity capital, facilitating growth in targeted sectors such as business services, franchising, and engineered products manufacturing.

Over its existence, LLCP has efficiently managed approximately $18.3 billion across nearly 20 investment funds and invested in around 120 portfolio companies. The firm currently holds assets worth $12.6 billion and operates from various locations, including Los Angeles, New York, and London, demonstrating its established presence in the global market.