'Committed to getting great results for clients', boutique practice CANDEY consistently acts for both large corporations and entrepreneurs in major shareholder and joint venture disputes; and it regularly assists with disputes involving the CIS, US, British Virgin Islands and Cyprus. In London, most of the firm's work is predominantly in the High Court, but the team's experience also includes appearances in the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Managing partner and 'amazing' litigator Ashkhan Candey has a particular interest in lawyers’ rights and access to justice; 'exceptional lawyer' Andrew Dunn is a specialist in shareholder disputes; and Muhammed Haque KC is sought out for significant company and commercial disputes. The track record of senior solicitor Mei Wong includes acting for corporations and high-profile individuals in company-related disputes, particularly minority shareholder and boardroom fallouts.

DAC Beachcroft LLP‘s London commercial litigation group has considerable experience in assisting companies, corporations and high-net-worth (HNW) individuals with high-value, complex litigation that frequently features cross-border dimensions; and representative work ranges from contractual and shareholder disputes, to contested share purchase agreements and corporate control issues. John Bramhall is experienced in acting in disputes involving the mis-selling of complex financial products; Richard Highley is ‘thoughtful and wise‘; Jonathan Brogden assists with contractual claims, banking and finance disputes, financial services regulatory investigations, and white-collar crime: Campbell Dye‘s practice is increasingly focused on TMT work; and Ken Forsyth acts in commercial disputes across the financial services, health, real estate, technology, leisure, and industrial goods and services sectors. Also highly regarded are multi-jurisdictional disputes expert Clarissa Coleman; Laura Berry, who acts in banking, finance, contractual and employment disputes; and senior associate and ‘clear thinker‘ Lisa Skipp.

Farrer & Co fields a go-to practice for high-profile, high-value, complex corporate and commercial litigation, particularly cases involving complex company structures and asset holdings, shareholder disputes, and cross-border commercial contracts. Clients additionally benefit from the group's ability to leverage the expertise of the firm's civil fraud and international trusts disputes practices, as well as experience in defamation/reputation management, IP, employment and real estate litigation. The principal figures are highly experienced commercial and corporate litigator Kate Allass, who is 'fantastic with clients'; Jolyon Connell, who 'provides outstanding expertise, advice and service'; John Wilkinson, a fraud and asset tracing expert; and Ben Longworth, who focuses on complex contractual claims. Within the associate pool, Oliver Blundell is a complex international litigation specialist; Sally Mantell acts in a significant range of commercial disputes; and Victoria Atkins assists both claimants and defendants with high-value contentious matters.

Between them, Keystone Law‘s bench of disputes lawyers a strong track record in litigation on behalf of both SMEs and major global organisations. Among the firm’s numerous litigators, Alex Ferrari acts in both domestic and international disputes; Elaine Chan is a commercial and insurance litigator; Matthew Reach is ‘a standout litigator‘; and Matthew Hennessy-Gibbs acts in commercial disputes and fraud cases. Other highly rated litigators are: Joanna Mckenzie, who assists with debt recovery, and professional negligence and breach of contract claims; media litigator Lawrence Abramson; Patrick Elliott, a corporate recovery and insolvency specialist; and Gagan Ranu, who is ‘a formidable and unflappable opponent‘. Growth during 2021 included the recruitment of: Louise Abbott, Howard Kennedy LLP‘s former commercial litigation and civil fraud head; Middle East disputes expert Joseph Kosky from Greenwoods GRM ; and aviation litigator James Healy-Pratt from Stewarts Law LLP. Recent additions of note include professional discipline and healthcare regulatory specialist Andrea James, who joined from Brabners LLP.

Osborne Clarke LLP's 'hardworking and focused' London commercial litigation practice has particular expertise in complex cross-border matters; and it is regularly instructed on major disputes involving the technology, projects, and energy and natural resources sectors. Practice head Tom Ellis has considerable experience in representing major corporations in commercial disputes, corporate investigations and fraud-related matters; Andrew Bartlett is a specialist in cross-border work and conflicts-of-laws; and Jane Park Weir acts across national and international commercial and corporate disputes and investigations. The second line of key litigators showcases Russia and CIS disputes head Artem Doudko, who 'has excellent strategic thinking'; and legal director Alfred Church, who assists with technical disputes involving contract scope, construction and interpretation, as well as shareholder and company disputes. At associate director level, Nick Price, acts in commercial disputes, high-value financial litigation and contentious regulatory investigations, while Nina Lazic is a technology sector disputes expert.

Following its 2021 combination with Memery Crystal LLP (now a sister brand handling non-contentious, advisory and transactional matters), Rosenblatt houses sector specialisms in financial services, partnerships, natural resources, retail and leisure, along with private wealth, international trade, and media and entertainment. The ‘incredibly capable‘ senior partner Tania MacLeod leads the dispute resolution practice, which showcases ‘litigation-savvy‘ Anthony Field; Danielle Carr, whose experience includes obtaining urgent injunctive relief and freezing orders; and Dean Nicholls, an expert in banking, finance, director and shareholder disputes, and professional negligence claims. Also integral to the group are commercial litigator Justin Nimmo; business, commercial and contractual disputes specialist Laura Clatworthy; Mark Whelan, who ‘immediately sees how a case will evolve‘; and the ‘stellar‘ Simon Walton.

Squire Patton Boggs' London litigation practice is routinely instructed to act in large-value cases that are frequently multi-jurisdictional; and among the group's several specialist areas are commercial and contractual disputes, shipping and commodities litigation, and corporate and shareholder conflicts. Other areas of expertise range from banking litigation, to fraud and asset tracing, the enforcement of English awards and judgments, and international sports disputes. Stephen Sampson is a widely respected sports and entertainment disputes practitioner; Chris Webber acts in financial services, corporate and commercial disputes; and Katie Pritchard is 'an exceptional fighter'. Within the director pool, Stephen Cole is noted for High Court litigation and multi-jurisdictional disputes, while Ian Debbage maintains a broad commercial litigation practice. At associate level, senior Michael Davar and Katherine Wakeham are also experienced team members.

Watson Farley & Williams LLP‘s ‘very effective team‘ is constantly involved in some of the English Courts’ highest profile commercial litigation; and the fielding of dispute resolution teams from Europe, Asia, the US and the Middle East (in addition to London) facilitates the coordination of complex cross-jurisdictional cases. The practice also stands out for its expertise in large-scale, commercial and corporate litigation in the transport, energy and real estate sectors. The team is jointly led by transport sector expert Andrew Ward; and construction, engineering, petrochemical and energy disputes specialist Rebecca Williams. Also integral to the group are Charles Buss, who focuses on maritime litigation, as well as general commercial and banking disputes; Rob Fidoe, who is ‘building a very strong commercial litigation practice‘; and commercial and financial disputes expert Andrew Hutcheon. At senior associate level Mark McAllister-Jones and Jemma Dhillon both have extensive commercial litigation practices.

Withers LLP's London team 'has a standout cross-cultural, cross-jurisdictional ability that is unique in the mid-market'. Acting for HNW individuals, major brands and large corporate entities, the commercial litigation practice has longstanding experience in complex, international disputes; and the group's expertise ranges from banking litigation, white-collar matters, and fraud and asset recovery, to insurance claims, professional negligence, insolvency, and contract and company disputes. Peter Wood is the firm's global dispute resolution CEO; Roberto Moruzzi is a 'vastly experienced senior-level partner'; Tatiana Menshenina acts in cross-border disputes, shareholder and construction claims, and the enforcement of judgments and arbitral awards; and Andrew Wass is a financial mis-selling claims expert. Also highly regarded are civil fraud leader Stephen Ross; Eleni Polycarpou, who has a specialist practice in art-related disputes; the 'extremely hands-on' Lesley Timms; and contentious insolvency, fraud, asset recovery and enforcement expert Sinead Harris.

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP‘s ‘excellent litigation team‘ acts for a wide range of private banks, major corporations, sports companies, regulators, foreign governments and individuals, including celebrities and ultra-HNW individuals; and the group regularly works alongside the firm’s highly rated private client practice on disputes involving privately-owned companies or shareholders. Clients additionally benefits from the team’s sectors strengths in technology, telecoms, sports and financial services, along with mining, energy, aviation and retail. Charlotte Pender is the recently-appointed commercial dispute resolution head; Stewart Hey leads the firm’s broader litigation and dispute resolution division; Rhys Novak  is a business and economic crimes specialist; Edward Craig is ‘determined to get the best results for clients‘; and, a partner since 2021, Caroline Greenwell is a multi-jurisdictional disputes expert. The senior associates to note are Lucy Wicksteed and recently promoted Stephanie Duncan.

Providing 'a very able and experienced team for substantial commercial litigation', Gowling WLG is consistently sought out for large international and domestic commercial disputes, particularly Chancery and Commercial Court cases. 'A super lawyer and a great team player,' senior litigation partner James Sidwell also co-heads the firm's financial services sector group; Catherine Naylor, 'an exceptional litigator,' is particularly focused on complex, multi-jurisdictional cases; and 'star litigator' Andrew Smith's track record includes large amounts of work in the automotive, food and drink, Pharma, property development and telecoms industries. At legal director  level, Verity Barker acts in a variety of cross-border commercial litigation, while Susannah Fink is on hand for both general commercial litigation and insurance disputes. Within the principal associate pool, Tom Cox's experience includes three successful heavyweight High Court trials in a recent five-year period, while Alexander Wrixon combines his litigation expertise with insurance market experience.

Heavyweight litigation boutique Humphries Kerstetter LLP routinely handles large and complex commercial disputes; and, consistently acting for and against investment banks, private equity houses and fund management companies, it has a particularly strong banking and financial services client base. Kristopher Kerstetter is a highly regarded international disputes specialist; consultant Christopher Braithwaite is 'a measured, tactically astute litigator'; and Toby Starr is a complex commercial disputes expert. In 2021, financial services litigator Joanna Pearson was recruited from Simmons & Simmons, and Robert Javin-Fisher, whose track record includes disputes in the TMT, Pharma, energy and natural resources sectors, was elevated to partner. More recently, in April 2022, founder and former senior partner Mark Humphries became a consultant at the firm, with Kerstetter being promoted to senior partner and James Russell, who is experienced in financial disputes involving company law issues and breaches of fiduciary duty, becoming the new managing partner.

K&L Gates LLP's 'excellent team of highly skilled individuals' operates across key sectors that reflect the firm’s core strengths, including aviation, policy holder insurance claims, and media, gambling and sport. It is also a go-to practice for disputes concerning corporate transactions and joint ventures, energy, funds, finance, fintech, and manufacturing and distribution. International disputes specialist John Magnin heads the complex commercial litigation and disputes group in London; Ian Meredith's workload covers disputes before the national courts, as well as commercial and investment arbitration; and Martin King specialises in sport, commercial life sciences, technology, betting and gaming disputes. The special counsels to note are Clare Tanner, who focuses on insolvency, banking, finance and professional negligence litigation; and Tim Fox, who 'ensures he secures positive results for clients'. Senior associate Jonathan Graham divides his practice between High Court litigation and international arbitration.

Routinely attracting big-ticket corporate and commercial litigation, Kingsley Napley LLP is able to leverage the firm's widely respected criminal law and media/reputation management expertise. Other key areas are civil fraud, contentious insolvency, banking and trusts; and the practice's clients include listed companies, professional football clubs, casino operators and trustees in bankruptcy, along with offshore trust companies, Middle Eastern banks, Formula 1 companies, HNW individuals, and high-profile entrepreneurs. Team head Richard Foss consistently acts for directors and management teams in civil litigation; Ryan Mowat is 'one of the finest commercial litigators currently in practice"; Sue Thackeray is a specialist in complex cross-border actions;  William Christopher focuses on civil fraud-related commercial litigation; and Fiona Simpson represents companies and directors in relation to frauds and breaches of duty committed by company directors. Also key to the group are Mary Young, who 'can pluck fantastic settlements out of thin air'; and insolvency-related litigation expert Michael Mulligan.

‘An excellent firm for commercial litigation‘, Lewis Silkin‘s dispute resolution team routinely works alongside its employment and corporate colleagues, particularly in relation shareholder disputes. The practice additionally regularly acts with other law firms on multi-party disputes. Dispute resolution head Mark Lim focuses on complex contractual disputes and corporate issues, including shareholder and joint venture-related claims, along with issues concerning board control and directors’ duties. Other highly regarded partners include Andrew Wanambwa, ‘a first-rate lawyer with terrific judgement‘; Clive Greenwood, who has longstanding experience in commercial and corporate disputes; and media, entertainment and technology disputes specialist, Neil Parkes, a 2021 hire from Foot Anstey. Within the managing associate pool, Nigel Enticknap acts in international, commercial disputes; Fraser McKeating‘s cases often involve high-value commercial and corporate issues; and Frances Simm‘s main areas cover corporate/M&A disputes, professional negligence claims, and breach of fiduciary duty.

The 2021 merger of Byrne & Partners LLP and PCB Litigation has given the combined team at PCB Byrne 'a critical mass capable of handling the largest of commercial disputes', with the practice particularly well known for its civil fraud and asset recovery credentials. Focused on fraud, dishonesty and corruption matters, Nicola Boulton is an international litigator with longstanding commercial disputes experience; Anthony Riem is 'first-rate with clients'; Nick Ractliff is 'an asset on any major case'; and 'one of the very best commercial litigators in London', Trevor Mascarenhas acts across a range of industry sectors, from banking and insurance to construction and real estate. Growth within the team includes the April 2022 elevation of Charlotte Bhania, who has particular knowledge of Middle East-related disputes, to partner; and at senior associate level, Rachel Turner is particularly focused on asset recovery and the cross-border enforcement of judgments and awards, including injunctive relief.

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP‘s practice is active in several specialist areas beyond general commercial litigation, including international disputes; group actions involving professional negligence and financial mis-selling; banking and finance litigation; defamation and reputation management; and digital asset disputes and cybercrime. Additional key areas are insolvency, health and safety/product liability claims, HNW-related disputes, and IP/IT matters. Clare Arthurs heads the litigation team, which features international litigation leader Richard Marshall, who is ‘fiercely bright‘; IP & IT disputes head Phillip D’Costa; and cross-border disputes expert Alex Fox. The second line of partners showcases Michael Brown, who acts in financial services-related commercial disputes; David O’Brien, who ‘sees points that others would not‘; and Kamran Rehman, a 2021 recruit from Shakespeare Martineau LLP. Charlotte Hill, Oliver Cooke and Laura Coleclough are experienced senior associates, while former practice head Rustam Dubash retired from the partnership during 2022, but remains a consultant.

In addition to its widely respected fraud expertise, Peters & Peters Solicitors LLP's commercial disputes team routinely acts in high-value and internationally flavoured cases that are complex and politically sensitive. Department head Jonathan Tickner also leads the firm's fraud and commercial disputes group; international head Keith Oliver and Sarah Gabriel both have longstanding commercial litigation experience; and Jason Woodland represents both individuals and corporates in complex disputes that frequently involve fraud allegation. Growth within the team includes commercial litigation expert Emma Ruane being elevated to the partnership.

Following the 2021 merger of DWFM Beckman and Axiom Stone Solicitors and the 2023 acquisition of Ince out of administration, Axiom Ince's team includes Daniel Gleek, who handles corporate and commercial claims, cross-border matters, insolvency litigation, negligence claims and injunctive relief matters. Demetris Dionissiou heads the insolvency and property dispute resolution teams, while Sharokh Koussari is active in defence-side commercial disputes.

Bristows LLP 'stands out as a high-end, mid-market litigation firm'.  The commercial and technology disputes team has enviable litigation experience in the technology, life sciences, industrial and consumer products sectors; and its specialisms include contractual matters, commercial law and confidentiality issues. The key figures are life sciences, pharma and digital content disputes expert Mark Brown; and Anna Cook, who acts in disputes arising from commercial contracts, software and large-scale technology projects. Also key to the team are Angela Fouracre, who handles commercial contract-related disputes; of counsel Robert Graham, an expert in technology contract-related claims; and 'outstanding senior associate' Westley Walker.

DWF's 'very good' London team handles a significant volume of international work, including construction, energy, IT and telecoms disputes, as well as cases in the Commercial Court over shareholder and transactional disputes. Stefan Paciorek is global dispute resolution head; Richard Twomey leads the London commercial litigation practice; Jonathan Isaacs 'has excellent strategic vision'; and Jonathan Moss specialises in multi-jurisdictional commodities, shipping and logistics litigation. Also in London, Joshua Fineman is 'an exceptional partner', while commercial disputes specialist Natasha Gunney is a key director, In Birmingham, Andrew Leach is CIS desk head, while Darren Kenny focuses on commercial fraud disputes.

Fladgate LLP's disputes department handles a range of commercial disputes, including contractual claims, misrepresentation actions, shareholder/partnership disputes, freezing injunctions, search orders, group litigation and warranty claims. It is also expert in jurisdictional challenges. John Evans is 'superb'; Tom Bolam specialises in company, commercial and fraud matters; Mark Buckley has 'good knowledge of the Indian market'; Eugene Matveichuk is an energy/natural resources, real estate and financial disputes expert; Garbhan Shanks is 'outstanding'; and Alexander Wildschütz is a cross-border specialist. In April 2022, commercial disputes expert Leigh Callaway was made partner, while Will Thompson is an experienced senior associate.

Harbottle & Lewis LLP's commercial litigation group routinely acts for the firm’s well-known core media, technology and entertainment sector clients. It is also active in disputes involving the retail and financial sectors, and consistently represents HNW clients from the firm’s enviable private capital practice. Sandi Simons is commercial litigation head; Louis Castellani is 'a very astute strategist'; Matthew Leverton has significant experience in expert determination, arbitration and mediation matters; and Sofie Hoffman acts in international contentious trust and probate matters. Georgina Long and Lizzie Williams are 'both very able senior associates who should go far'.

With 'all the skill of a Magic Circle firm', Howard Kennedy LLP's commercial litigation practice covers contractual disputes, misrepresentation, warranty claims, shareholder and partnership disputes, M&A conflicts, joint venture-related contentious issues, and corporate governance issues. Commercial dispute resolution head Dominic Offord specialises in contractual disputes, cross-border fraud matters and contentious insolvency; Joel Leigh is an expert in complex professional negligence and civil fraud claims; and Duncan Bagshaw has niche expertise in Africa-related energy disputes. India group chair Arish Bharucha joined as partner from Cooke, Young & Keidan LLP during 2021, while Ayesha Salim and James Wingfield are experienced legal directors.

The ‘dynamic, hardworking, innovative and client-focused‘ Keidan Harrison specialises in commercial dispute resolution and insolvency; and the 2020-launched boutique firm acts for international and UK businesses, and HNW individuals including directors, partners and shareholders, as well as insolvency practitioners, pension trustees and other fiduciaries. Marc Keidan (former co-founding partner of Cooke, Young & Keidan LLP) has a broad corporate and commercial disputes practice; Luke Harrison is ‘determined to go the extra mile for clients‘; and commercial litigation, international arbitration and civil fraud specialist Dipti Hunter is a 2021 partner hire from PwC LLP. Kit Smith was promoted to managing associate in April 2022.

Housing ‘a stream of talented lawyers‘, King & Wood Mallesons‘ dispute resolution and litigation team has a strong reputation for both domestic and international litigation. Clients particularly appreciate the firm’s enviable international network throughout Asia Pacific, Europe, the US and the Middle East. The experience of London commercial litigation head Darren Roiser typically involves multiple jurisdictions and urgent interim relief; Andrei Yakovlev assists with disputes over M&A, foreign investments, and sovereign and corporate finance; and Wilson Antoon acts in large and complex proceedings. James McKenzie is ‘a first-rate counsel‘, while Chloé Bakshi is an experienced managing associate.

A large proportion of the work of specialist disputes practice LK Law LLP involves acting for or against banks and other financial institutions, particularly in relation to fraud allegations; and the team routinely litigates before the English courts, while also being experienced in bringing and defending claims in offshore jurisdictions. Andrew Ford focuses on large international disputes, fraud, and asset tracing, while Caroline Phipps, who was promoted to principal in 2022, specialises in multi-jurisdictional disputes.

Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe (UK) LLP‘s London litigation team is sought out by HNW individuals, multinationals and nation states for heavyweight disputes across the firm’s core sectors of finance, technology and innovation, and energy and infrastructure. ‘A determined advocate for his client‘, Simon Willis‘ commercial disputes expertise covers financial and professional services institutions, contentious regulatory work, and professional negligence; and in addition to his international practice Mark Beeley acts in cross-border disputes in the English courts. Recent additions to the partnership include Amanda Voss and Adam Rizzo during 2021, and Sarah Stockley in 2022. Marcus Holmstroem is the senior associate to note.

'A hidden gem in the London litigation market', Payne Hicks Beach LLP's commercial and corporate litigation team handles disputes involving HNW individuals, corporations, funds and banks; and its expertise ranges from financial services, international trade, fraud, contentious insolvency and professional negligence, to corporate governance/shareholder issues such as unfair prejudice claims. Dominic Crossley acts for private individuals and commercial organisations in significant disputes; Lucas Moore is 'always looking for innovative approaches to cases'; and Ane Vernon has a growing education and regulatory sector-related disputes practice. During 2021, partners Georgina Bayley and Paul Dorrans joined from Withers LLP and Simmons & Simmons respectively.

Providing ‘first-rate skills at every level‘, Shoosmiths LLP‘s disputes offering covers corporate litigation, technology disputes, cyber incident-related matters, coverage claims, banking disputes, and marine and aviation litigation. Corporate and commercial disputes expert Bill Molloy has ‘strong knowledge of tech disputes‘; Susie Wakefield leads the commercial insurance team; and Philip Tansley heads the cyber incident response practice. Other active litigators are ‘standout partner‘ Elliot Bishop and experienced senior associate Matthew MacLachlan. Birmingham-based Alex Bishop is national dispute resolution and litigation head, while Daren Allen joined the London team in September 2021 from Dentons, where he was business crime and investigations head.

The commercial and corporate disputes expertise of Steptoe and Johnson UK LLP covers fraud claims, contract disputes, white-collar crime, competition, and construction and property disputes. Neil Dooley assists with cross-border fraud claims; Jonathan Raynes is a complex disputes expert; Angus Rodger ‘has excellent instincts for a winning point‘; and Ivan Gordienko is a cryptocurrency expert. ‘Brilliant and hands-on‘ partner Leigh Mallon is a 2021 hire from Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP; and within the firm’s associate pool, Alex Green focuses on disputes involving clients from Central and Eastern Europe, while Natalia Gofman regularly works alongside Dooley on major commercial cases.

Trowers & Hamlins LLP's department is best known for its experience in Middle East-related matters and substantial commercial disputes, including litigation involving public sector bodies. National commercial litigation head Lucy James acts in disputes involving complex contracts, defamation, fraud, IT claims, professional negligence and partnerships; Alex Burton is a cross-border disputes specialist; Navinder Grover co-heads the firm's contentious insolvency practice; and Charlotte Clayson is a commercial and public law disputes expert. The London team also features experienced managing associate James Lancaster, along with key senior associates Cara Gillingham, Laura Pennells, Michael Rhode and Rebecca Lawrence.

'An outstanding alternative to the Magic Circle firms in London', Willkie Farr & Gallagher (UK) LLP's litigators are well known for major transactional and shareholder-related disputes in the private equity, insurance and asset management sectors. The team also has significant experience in high-value fraud cases involving multiple jurisdictions. London litigation, compliance and enforcement practice chair, Peter Burrell, is a 'remarkable litigator', who  focuses on cross-border matters; and Simon Osborn-King is active in commercial litigation comprising parallel UK and US aspects. Promoted to partner in January 2022, Jerry Healy is 'a very sharp lawyer', while associate Giles Harvey is 'a future star'.

The commercial litigation practice of Armstrong Teasdale (which recently acquired UK firm Kerman & Co) acts in natural resources, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and sports-related disputes. Robert Paydon is UK commercial litigation head; Robin Pickworth is civil fraud leader; James Thorndyke is ‘very commercial‘; and senior counsel Andy Kerman is ‘a hugely experienced and savvy litigator‘. At associate level, senior Molly Ahmed and Emma Shaw are also active litigators. In June 2022, Fraser Mitchell was made partner.

Boodle Hatfield LLP's litigation department 'consistently demonstrates excellent strategic judgement and commercial insight'. It regularly assists international families and businesses with cross-border disputes, while clients also benefit from the firm's specialisms in the art and luxury assets, agrochemicals and family business sectors. A 'truly outstanding commercial litigator', Simon Fitzpatrick's recent track record includes acting in contractual disputes, breach of fiduciary duty matters, professional negligence claims, and partnership, shareholder and property disputes; and Kellie Jones frequently represents HNW individuals, particularly from the Middle East. An 'outstanding senior associate', Rebecca Foden is experienced in art-related disputes.

Burges Salmon LLP‘s ‘excellent‘ Bristol-based disputes group comprises experts in transport, financial services, insurance, energy and natural resources, agricultural and rural affairs, and business crime and regulatory matters. The group is jointly led by David Hall and Ann Metherall, while Andrew Burnette acts in contractual, banking, company and shareholder disputes. Also highly regarded are ‘trusted‘ food litigation expert Sian Edmunds; Chris Jackson, a transport and procurement specialist; Michael Ward, who is ‘tireless and creative‘; and rail regulatory expert Ian Tucker.

Cohen & Gresser (UK) LLP's 'outstanding' London practice acts in a broad range of complex commercial, business and financial disputes throughout the UK and internationally. UK commercial litigation head Jumana Rahman's recent workload spans various industries, including the financial services, energy, and hospitality sectors; John Gibson heads the firm’s UK white-collar and investigations practice; and Richard Kovalevsky KC is London criminal defence head. At counsel level, Thomas Shortland 'adds value to whatever he is working on'.

Dorsey & Whitney‘s London trial department 'always delivers what clients need'. The team's litigation clients particularly appreciate the group's ability to draw upon the experience of the London office’s wide-ranging corporate practice, in addition to the firm's enviable US and Asian network. Team head Tim Maloney is a specialist in high-profile and complex commercial litigation, while Matthew Blower is 'a very good lawyer and excellent with clients'. Commercial and real estate litigation expert Joseph Lewin is a recently-promoted special counsel.

Edwin Coe LLP’s London commercial litigation team is 'particularly experienced in group litigation matters'. The track record of litigation and dispute resolution head, Ali Zaidi, includes bankruptcy and corporate Ponzi frauds; and senior partner and 'exceptional strategic thinker' David Greene leads the group action and finance litigation team. Also key to the practice, Zahira Hussain regularly handles contractual disputes; and at senior associate level, barrister Thomas Johnson is 'frighteningly efficient', and Fred Sheppard acts in commercial and civil litigation.

The recent track record for Forsters LLP's 'seriously competent, astute group of lawyers' includes shareholder litigation, investment claims, professional negligence matters, and corporate and post-transactional litigation. The team is also well known for funded litigation. Practice head Benedict Walton is 'a standout partner with terrific instincts', while Andrew Head's experience includes large trials that frequently comprise international elements. In April 2022, Caroline Harbord and Bryan Shacklady, who both act in cross-border matters, were promoted to partner and counsel, respectively.

Fox Williams LLP's 'deeply experienced mid-market litigation outfit' is particularly expert in civil fraud; shareholder, partnership, M&A, insurance and investment banking disputes; securities litigation; and High Court employment disputes. Gavin Foggo is 'a tremendous litigator'; Tom Custance is a financial services sector-related employment disputes specialist; David Butler is a civil fraud, shareholder litigation and insolvency expert; and Andrew Hill specialises in securities litigation. In May 2022, Evie Meleagros and Rebecca Richardson were elevated to partner and legal director, respectively.

McDermott Will & Emery UK LLP’s litigation department is well known for high-value disputes that are frequently internationally focused; and its experience covers contract disputes, security enforcement and insolvency, along with whistleblower claims, economic torts, and privacy and data breach. Andrew Savage focuses on commercial and finance disputes, along with international arbitration; recently promoted counsel Armando Neris is a former Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan, LLP lawyer; and senior associate Kimberley Smith is experienced in energy, commodities and construction-related contractual disputes.

'Populated by highly talented, committed lawyers', McGuireWoods London LLP's litigation team advises on a broad range of English and cross-border litigation matters. Simon Hems has longstanding experience in representing US and European oil and gas industry clients in litigation, arbitration and ADR; and William Boddy has substantial experience in acting in complex, fraud-related multi-jurisdictional disputes. In January 2022, the 'absolutely great' Chloe Steele was made partner, while in late 2021, former partner Hardeep Nahal departed for Constantine Cannon LLP

ONTIER LLP‘s London office houses experts in multi-jurisdictional commercial litigation, arbitration and insolvency work; and the ‘strong team‘ is notably active in blockchain, cryptocurrency and cybercrime disputes. Oliver Cain is ‘a highly experienced, efficient litigator‘; and during 2022, Felicity Potter and Simon Cohen were promoted to partner and managing associate, respectively, while disputes specialists Aoife Keane and Amy Harvey joined as partners from Seddons and Peters & Peters Solicitors LLP, respectively. Former litigation head Paul Ferguson recently departed for Addleshaw Goddard.

Operating from London, Manchester and Exeter offices, Ronald Fletcher Baker LLP has a highly robust commercial litigation practice; and its workload covers high-level international contractual and corporate disputes, as well as art law-related disputes. The department's co-heads are 'outstanding litigator' Rudi Ramdarshan; and 'strategic thinker' David Burns, an expert in matters involving fraud, arbitration, confiscation and complex financial transactions. The second line of partners features commercial disputes specialist Benjamin Frost, Jonathan Chan, who 'fights hard', and 'superb litigator' Victoria Huxley.

Rosling King‘s majority-female partner team is well known for its expertise in shareholder and partnership disputes, claims involving breach of directors’ duties, breach of contract, negligence and mis-selling; and during 2021, the firm’s disputes offering was bolstered by its merger with boutique shipping litigation firm, Lax & Co. Practice head Georgina Squire is ‘very impressive‘; Hannah Sharp acts in commercial and financial services-related litigation; and Lauren Pardoe assists with company disputes. Kate Rigby and Laura Matthews were made partners during 2021.

Russell-Cooke LLP‘s ‘very commercial and sensible‘ commercial litigation practice covers civil fraud, professional negligence, construction disputes, insolvency, contractual claims, and director and shareholder conflicts. John Gould‘s practice includes commercial litigation and public law disputes; Lee Ranford is insolvency group leader; Elliot Elsey ‘gives great practical advice‘; Michael Stacey assists charities and regulators with disputes; and Mark Fletcher is a ‘good tactician‘. At senior associate level, Emily Mitcheson is ‘one to watch‘ and Ricky Cella is ‘particularly strong‘.

Wallace LLP fields 'an exceptional team of top-quality lawyers', who are regularly instructed on complex corporate and commercial disputes that involve cross-border issues. Property litigator Simon Serota heads the litigation department, which showcases Alexander Weinberg, an expert in shareholder, joint venture and corporate disputes; and Oli Goldman, who has 'an extraordinary tactical mind'. Within the firm's senior associate pool, Elizabeth Asher focuses on commercial and insolvency litigation; Josephine Mathew has a broad disputes practice; and Philip Blyghton is 'technically excellent'.

Launched in early 2021, litigation-only firm Alius Law specialises in high-value, complex commercial litigation. Former Fladgate LLP dispute resolution head Bree Taylor has a strong track record in fraud cases and company disputes that feature cross-border aspects; and representing offshore trust companies and ultra-HNW individuals, John Ford's caseload includes claims involving world-famous brands. At associate level, Reece Davison is a commercial disputes specialist, while former disputes partner Victoria Prince  left the firm for Lloyds Banking Group in July 2022.

Ashfords LLP's disputes practice covers contractual issues, emergency relief, contempt of court proceedings, fraud, asset and tracing claims, and company and partnership disputes. The team also assists with claims against company directors, multi-jurisdictional disputes, professional negligence and debt recovery. London dispute resolution head James Crighton is increasingly sought out for contempt of court proceedings; and Rory Mac Neice in Bristol is the firm-wide practice head. Senior associate Chris Freeman is a specialist in professional negligence and technology sector disputes.

BDB Pitmans' commercial litigation practice is experienced in disputes involving group claims, major commercial contracts, professional negligence, and shareholder, partnership and joint venture conflicts. The firm also acts in banking and finance litigation, debt and asset recovery matters, and IT disputes. Commercial litigation head Sinéad Lester 'has a really sharp and analytical mind'; Richard Langley is a contractual and corporate litigation specialist; and Irwin Mitchell's former London commercial litigation leader, Jonathan Sachs, is an international litigation expert.

Acting for national and international corporations, financial institutions and high-profile individuals, Blake Morgan LLP's 'lean and effective team' handles litigation across multiple jurisdictions. Sarah Rees focuses on business, finance, retail, leisure and media disputes; Justin Weare is 'quite simply a superb lawyer'; and recently promoted partner Alex Shirtcliff acts in the pursuit and defence of assets within civil fraud scenarios. At legal director level, commercial and insolvency disputes expert Conor Daly is 'a commercially-minded, determined and detail-driven litigator'.

Charles Fussell & Co LLP's 'excellent, niche commercial litigation practice' predominantly represents claimants in commercial disputes, fraud and professional negligence. It is also increasingly active in defence-side matters. Charles Fussell is an expert in high-value, multi-party litigation involving the financial services and energy sectors; Simon Winter's practice covers commercial fraud, professional negligence, and disputes involving commercial contracts and shareholders; and banking and finance, competition, IP and IT disputes specialist Jonathan Cohen is 'an exceptional litigator'.

Collyer Bristow LLP's practice covers contracts, torts, civil fraud, trusts, insolvencies and cross-border claims. The team also assists with boardroom, partnership, shareholder and joint venture disputes. Robin Henry is disputes head; Jeff Roberts acts in commercial disputes and company litigation; and Janine Alexander assists with banking, finance and litigation funding disputes. In May 2022, the practice hired Shakespeare Martineau LLP's former London disputes head David Vaughan, while former commercial disputes leader Richard Viegas departed during 2021 for Taylor Wessing LLP.

Achieving 'excellent results at a low cost', DaySparkes' diverse commercial litigation practice covers professional negligence claims, director and shareholder disputes, market abuse claims and insolvency-related matters. It is also active in cryptocurrency disputes, property litigation, VAT fraud, and cases involving freezing injunctions. The 'highly effective' John Day acts in a wide variety of complex, commercial and banking litigation disputes; and the track record of 'impressive' Michael Sparkes includes disputes against major international banks. Director Gopi Binning is 'one to watch'.

Demonstrating 'an excellent ability to manage large complex cases', Freeths LLP houses experts in group actions, corporate/M&A litigation, and contractual and commercial disputes. Other specialisms include fraud, confidential information, insolvency, debt collection, gaming, and funding/insurance claims. Team head Philippa Dempster acts in domestic and international disputes, as well as defamation and data claims. At director level, Vickie Williams' practice includes professional negligence, insolvency, contractual and partnership disputes, and warranty and insurance claims; and Imogen Randall is 'great to work with'.

Hamlins LLP‘s ‘agile commercial litigation team‘ handles an array of disputes, including claims involving contractual issues, torts, breach of fiduciary duties and civil fraud. Promoted to equity partner during 2021, Martin Ochs focuses on contentious IP and commercial disputes. At associate level, senior Laura Daly, as well as Lola Dawson and Lauren Twidale are also key team members. Amanda Burge departed to join Hill Dickinson LLP in July 2023.

With 'strong commercial litigation expertise', boutique firm iLaw specialises in high-profile international and commercial disputes. Core areas for the practice are IT and IP,  but it is increasingly active in matters involving the cryptocurrency, beverage and film sectors. Commercial litigation department head Mark Culbert is 'a superb lawyer and litigator'; and the cases of fellow-director and 'standout practitioner' Tom Clark are frequently internationally flavoured. Newly appointed litigation director and 'superb commercial practitioner' Jenny Lau heads the firm’s arbitration practice.

Specialising in complex UK and cross-border matters, Kennedys' commercial litigation practice has widely recognised insurance and reinsurance sector expertise, but it is also active in financial services and manufacturing-related commercial disputes. Group head Ben Aram focuses on high-value, complex cases with international dimensions; Danny Steel 'has an excellent feel for the best course to victory'; Darren Bradshaw is a recently promoted legal director; and senior associate Rhys Tebbett's clients include UHNW individuals, family offices, global corporations, and insurers and reinsurers.

Michelmores LLP's 'very talented litigators' have strong financial services credentials, while recent work includes COVID-19-related insurance coverage matters, competition investigations and commercial disputes. Exeter-based practice leader Jonathan Kitchin is 'excellent'. In London, Peter Sigler, 'an outstanding litigator with excellent strategic vision', is head of international; and the practice of 'excellent litigator' Marie-Louise King, a recent partner hire from Winckworth Sherwood LLP, covers breach of contract claims, company and shareholder disputes, conflicts arising out of corporate transactions, and contentious insolvency.

In May 2022, Royds Withy King merged with Goodman Derrick LLP to form RWK Goodman, which fields a combined team that is experienced in breach of contract and shareholder conflicts, along with large-value claims that feature multi-jurisdictional aspects. Stewart Wilkinson has longstanding commercial disputes experience; Stephen Welfare's broad practice includes niche UK jewellery sector expertise; and Milan Kapadia acts in commercial, banking and insolvency disputes. Former Goodman Derrick disputes head Nigel Adams moved to Druces LLP in February 2022. 

Simons Muirhead Burton‘s commercial litigation team is led by managing partner Razi Mireskandari, whose practice covers contractual matters, negligence, shareholder issues, IP claims, and misrepresentation; Martin Soames focuses on publishing-related commercial disputes; Stephen Shotnes is an experienced commercial and media litigator; and Antony Perlmutter is a commercial litigation and property-related disputes expert. At consultant level, Peter Gould ‘always pulls in interesting cases‘, while Dina Shiloh has broad trial experience in complex commercial cases.

Fielding one of the largest commercial litigation teams in the south of England, Guildford firm Stevens & Bolton LLP consistently acts in high-value disputes that are frequently cross-border in nature. Specialist areas for disputes head Sarah Murray are commercial and insurance claims, fraud and asset recovery work; Michael Frisby is active in life sciences, engineering and energy-related disputes; and Andrew Quick assists with corporate and franchising disputes, along with professional negligence. Catherine Penny also plays a key role within the practice.

Key areas for Teacher Stern LLP‘s commercial litigation team are contractual and shareholder actions, professional negligence, fraud/asset tracing claims, and mis-selling disputes against institutional defendants. Commercial litigation team head Jack Rabinowicz specialises in significant cross-border litigation and arbitration claims; Rajesh Pabla acts for clients from the property, IT, sports, media, fashion, banking, fintech and real estate finance sectors; Clare Toomer focuses on corporate and shareholder disputes, in addition to contentious IP; and Sarah Emerson is an insurance disputes expert.

The London office of US-based litigation boutique Constantine Cannon LLP, which has financial payments services, healthcare, pharmaceuticals and transportation sector expertise, recruited high-profile litigation partner Hardeep Nahal from McGuireWoods London LLP in October 2021. Providing further partner-level support is competition litigation head Richard Pike, who 'achieves practical and commercial outcomes'.

Providing 'a bespoke service to clients', Costigan King is best known for construction disputes, but the team additionally assists with a range of commercial disputes, both nationally and internationally. George Menzies is a disputes specialist, while Julian Critchlow and Arianne King are 'highly experienced lawyers'. Consultant Amanda Lee is 'excellent'.

Housing providers comprise a large part of Devonshires Solicitors LLP's client base. In addition to day-to-day commercial disputes work, the 'fantastic' team focuses on insolvency, debt recovery, public inquiries and coroners inquests. James Dunn is a fraud, regulatory and inquiry specialist, while Philip Barden is a commercial disputes expert.

In addition to its transport and automotive sector disputes expertise, the London dispute resolution practice of US firm Duane Morris LLP, led by commercial litigator Alex Geisler, acts in disputes involving shareholders, group actions, and franchise and distribution agreements. Fellow partner Vijay Bange assists with construction, engineering and energy disputes.

Greenwoods Legal‘s disputes department comprises specialist sub-teams in commercial claims, construction, property disputes and regulatory. Team head Huw Wallis' cases frequently feature complex, high-value or international elements; and Euan Palmer focuses on oil and gas matters. Marine law and international trade head Russell Strong joined in 2021 from Zaiwalla & Co.

GSC Solicitors LLP's team routinely acts in litigation in the Commercial Court, as well as in other business and property courts, and the Court of Appeal. Michael Shapiro is a commercial, contractual and shareholder disputes expert, while senior consultant Barry Samuels 'does not stop working until he gets results'.

gunnercooke LLP's 'proactive' bench of advisers handle complex disputes involving financial services, technology, media, real estate, IP, and SME and owner-managed businesses. Shilpen Savani is a commercial disputes and contentious corporate specialist; Philip Rubens assists with contentious financial services matters; and Fergus Buckley 'has great litigation instincts'.

Irwin Mitchell‘s key commercial disputes figures are recently promoted Katie Byrne in Gatwick, who acts in high-value international and financial services (including insurance) disputes; and London-based solicitor Samantha Leung, who is ‘hardworking, diligent and extremely able‘. Providing additional partner-level support are Manchester-based Duncan Hope and Dorrien Peters in Sheffield.

Joelson's disputes expertise covers IP and IT matters, along with employment-related claims. The 'particularly impressive' Jo Gregory leads the practice, in which Jennifer Maxwell- Harris is increasingly active in contentious employment work involving cross-over shareholder and director issues.

Locke Lord LLP is well known for its expertise in cards and payments, asset finance, contentious insolvency, offshore matters, art law, and privacy and cybersecurity. The commercial litigation group is headed by Kevin Heath, 'a very able negotiator and strategist', while David Herbert acts in heavyweight international disputes and insolvencies.

Regularly acting in disputes with international dimensions, Marriott Harrison LLP's recent track record includes major High Court trials. The practice of disputes head Tamar Halevy covers breach of contracts, trust-related claims, director/shareholder disputes, fraud and professional negligence; and fellow partner Jim Mackie 'deploys superb litigation and dispute resolution strategies'.

Seddons acts in defence-side matters for foreign governments, along with steel mining, fashion and real estate clients. Marvin Simons has a broad litigation practice; Christian Smith and Rebecca Arnold  both have extensive commercial litigation experience; and John Melville-Smith is 'very pragmatic'.

Growing areas for Shakespeare Martineau LLP's nationwide dispute resolution and litigation practice, led by London and Birmingham-based Barry Jervis, include financial services litigation, contentious insolvency and cross-border litigation. In May 2022, India desk head Sneha Nainwal was made partner; former London disputes head David Vaughan joined Collyer Bristow LLP.

Highly active in the funding market, Shepherd and Wedderburn ‘provides an exceptional service‘. John MacKenzie leads the group from Edinburgh; and in London, Philip Sewell‘s practice covers financial and shareholder disputes, professional negligence, and food and health and safety litigation, and Ben Pilbrow is a commercial disputes specialist.

Solomon Taylor & Shaw LLP's 'exceptionally lean and efficient team' frequently works on cross-border matters, and is increasingly active in international arbitration. Dispute resolution head Mark Summerfield focuses on partnership and shareholder disputes, in addition to insolvency and banking-related matters. Fellow partner Jeremy Harris leads the real estate dispute resolution practice.

Velitor Law was launched in 2021 by hedge fund disputes specialist Seamus Andrew, a former barrister and founder of law firm SCA Ontier. Andrew, who is 'one of the most effective lawyers around', is partnered by 'fantastically talented lawyer' Christopher Lillywhite, a former Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP associate.

Weightmans LLP acts for insolvency practitioners and individuals in the financial, legal, construction, property, energy and insurance sectors. Charles Boyne is an insolvency specialist; Andrew Cromby is 'a skilled commercial litigator'; and James Denison acts in professional and management liability claims. Principal associate Simon Adam is London litigation team manager.

Wiggin LLP's commercial litigation team is well known for its media, technology, sports, and betting and gaming sector expertise. Consultant Caroline Kean is litigation head; Alan Owens is 'outstanding'; and Matthew Dando specialises in contentious commercial and media industry publication disputes.

'Cost-effective and shrewd law firm' Zaiwalla & Co routinely handles heavyweight commercial litigation work involving India, South America and the Middle East. A 'leading light in litigation', name partner Sarosh Zaiwalla has longstanding experience in high-value multi-jurisdictional cases, while IP and administrative law specialist Leigh Crestohl oversees the litigation department's work.