Chambers & Partners

CHAMBERS AND PARTNERS UK BAR DIRECTORY

2023 RECOMMENDATIONS

XXIV Old Buildings and its members are recommended in all the following areas:

Art & Cultural Property Law International Arbitration: Arbitrators
Aviation International Arbitration: General Commercial & Insurance
Banking & Finance Mediators
Chancery: Commercial Offshore
Chancery: Traditional Partnership
Charities Real Estate Litigation
Commercial Dispute Resolution Restructuring/Insolvency
Company Sport
Financial Services Travel: Regulatory and Commercial
Fraud: Civil Trusts

 

ART & CULTURAL PROPERTY

Edward Cumming KC

“He has an incredible intellect and knowledge of the law. He leaves no stone unturned in his investigations and advice, and his written work and tactical approach are sublime.”

 

AVIATION

Steven Thompson KC, Bajul Shah, Erin Hitchens, Heather Murphy and Tom Stewart Coats are all recommended.

XXIV Old Buildings deploys a wealth of expertise across a broad range of aviation matters. The set’s strong silks and juniors are recognised for their handling of complex product liability, negligence and insurance claims in the industry. Members here regularly handle high-value litigation both for and against major operators, airports and owners in matters pertaining to aircraft leases, repossessions and contractual disputes. Barristers at the set are particularly adept at advising airlines on compensation claims and other insolvency issues. Recent work highlights for the set include acting for Cathay Pacific in a long-term maintenance contract dispute related to 27 of its jet engines and representing Wallis Trading in a $30 million lease-related claim against Air Tanzania. One commentor notes: “The barristers show real knowledge and depth of understanding of the aviation sector and emerging trends.”

Client service: “The clerks are helpful and attentive.” “The clerking team are excellent and very responsive.”

SILKS

Steven Thompson KC

Steven Thompson KC acts in aviation cases as a significant part of his broader commercial practice, with disputed leases and maintenance contracts forming the core of his workload. He has a wealth of knowledge in relation to insolvency cases in the aviation sector and has notable expertise in handling complex technical matters. “He is very able to handle witnesses, he very effectively cross-examines and manages to keep the court’s respect whilst eviscerating the evidence of a particular witness.” “He is very detail-orientated, but is also able to present complex details in a clear and comprehensive manner.”

JUNIORS

Bajul Shah

Bajul Shah is an experienced junior whose strong market profile is built out of his broad experience in the aviation sphere. He is regularly instructed to handle cases related to leasing, contractual and insolvency disputes, a number of which involve difficult points of law. An impressive client roster includes bodies from across the spectrum of the industry, including lessors, lessees and airlines. “Bajul is a highly competent and sensible barrister with excellent technical knowledge and an easy, calm style.” “He is excellent, very experienced and his preparation is very through. He is very strong on aviation matters.” “He is able to consider huge amounts of technical and legal information and provide advice not just on the legal position, but also on the commercial issues.”

Erin Hitchens

Erin Hitchens is increasingly sought out as junior counsel in difficult commercial disputes. She has notable experience in complex leasing and insurance matters and is often instructed in significant cases in the aviation sector by aircraft leasing and airline clients. “She has been a tremendous asset. She gets to the heart of the matter very quickly, which saves time and costs.” “Erin is very sharp and practical. She is also very strong on paper and a really good team player.” “Erin has a great eye for detail and can come up with very creative legal arguments. In court, she fights points well and is tenacious.”

Heather Murphy

Heather Murphy is an esteemed junior counsel in the realm of aviation. She has a wide range of experience acting in matters involving leasing and economic distress. Heather has experience at all levels of court including the Supreme Court. “Heather is incredibly astute and provides advice in a very commercially aware and client friendly way.” “Heather is bright and has a deep knowledge of her subject area which she can apply adeptly to the client’s issue.” “Heather is a tenacious and quick-thinking advocate.”

Tom Stewart Coats

Tom Stewart Coats handles a range of complex disputes in the aviation industry. He is noted for his work defending airlines in claims for compensation for delays and cancellations under EU regulations. “Tom is an exceptionally effective advocate, with a great depth of understanding and knowledge when it comes to claims within the aviation sector.” “He is efficient, hard-working and knows his stuff.”

 

BANKING & FINANCE

Edward Cumming KC

Edward Cumming KC is regularly called upon by banks and other financial institutions to advise on a wide range of financial matters. He advises clients on all manner of cases, including those involving complex derivatives and matters with elements of fraud. “Edward Cumming is ferociously hard-working, and always a delight to deal with. He is clever, energetic and good at getting to the heart of the problem.”

 

CHANCERY: COMMERCIAL

Alan Steinfeld KC, Stephen Moverley Smith KC, Francis Tregear KC, David Brownbill KC, Elspeth Talbot Rice KC, Edward Cumming KC, Marcus Staff, Stuart Adair, Bajul Shah, Adam Cloherty, Andrew Holden, Daniel Warents, Hugh Miall and Tim Sherwin are all recommended.

XXIV Old Buildings is highly regarded for its expertise in complex cases arising in offshore jurisdictions, earning praise from instructing solicitors who say: “It is clear they’re one of the leading sets in this area.” The set’s members undertake a wide range of commercial chancery matters, and are frequently instructed in high-value commercial litigation, especially civil fraud and insolvency disputes. The team is also well versed in commercial matters involving elements of professional negligence, trusts and partnership law, drawing on the set’s established strengths in these areas.

Client service: “The clerks are excellent. They deal with queries quickly and are commercial in terms of fees, trying to reach an agreement which satisfies all parties.” “The clerking team, particularly James Ladbrook, is exceptional. James is responsive and commercial, he is easy to work with and goes out of his way to help.” “The clerks have a very helpful and hands-on approach.” Paul Horsfield leads the clerking team, which also includes, amongst others, Perry Brown, who is “exceptionally easy to deal with and knows how to build up good relationships.”

SILKS

Alan Steinfeld KC

“Stunningly intelligent. He is incredibly charming in court.” “Hugely experienced and has a great courtroom style and is prepared to fight for his client.” “An excellent practitioner with great gravitas.”

Stephen Moverley Smith KC

“Brings an assured gravitas to the courtroom.”

Francis Tregear KC

“A pleasure to work with. Francis is charming, unflappable under pressure, and someone who has the ear of the court. He is also very good with clients.”

David Brownbill KC

“A hands-on advocate with a seemingly tireless drive to achieve a positive result for his client.”

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC

“She provides clear and concise advice and is brilliant with difficult clients.” “Elspeth is exceptional. She commands the room, whether that be the courtroom or the conference room.” “She has the ability to get the best out of everyone around her and has the most incredible work ethic.”

Edward Cumming KC

“He is very knowledgeable and strategic. A hugely popular choice.” “Edward is extremely effective.”

JUNIORS

Marcus Staff

“A man with a remarkable intellect and great breadth of knowledge, who is excellent at communication and recognising the interrelation of very complex matters.”

Stuart Adair

“He is realistic and gives good, practical advice.” “Stuart deals with complex points that he expresses well. A formidable and fair opponent, who is very capable.”

Bajul Shah

“Bajul is very helpful approachable and responsive, and he provides very clear and cogent advice.” “He is technically superb.”

Adam Cloherty

“Very thorough and a man who produces impressive written work.”

Andrew Holden

“A fine advocate with strong legal and advocacy skills.” “He turns work around very quickly and has a great work product.”

Daniel Warents

“I have no doubt that he will be a real star at the Bar. He is great to work with and clients love him.” “He produces very good quality work and is very confident, rightly so.”

Hugh Miall

“Hugh is on top of the detail, his written work is of high quality and his advocacy is very measured and persuasive.” “He is incredibly easy to work with as he gets up to speed quickly and approaches cases with a sharp commercial mind. Clients are always impressed by him.”

Tim Sherwin

“Very sharp-witted, and nice to work with.” “A responsive junior, who really becomes part of the team rather than taking a stand-offish approach. A good, solid practitioner who is well ahead of the field in his call range.”

 

CHANCERY: TRADITIONAL

Alan Steinfeld KC, Francis Tregear KC, David Brownbill KC, Elspeth Talbot Rice KC, Edward Cumming KC, Elizabeth Weaver, Bajul Shah, Adam Cloherty, Andrew Holden, Daniel Warents and Tim Sherwin are all recommended.

XXIV Old Buildings is an established and highly respected traditional chancery chambers. It is “an exceptional set with accessible, expert barristers combined with prompt and talented clerks and practice managers,” comments a source, while another states that “the barristers are traditional chancery specialists and cover all dimensions of this category.” Chambers is also noted for its depth of expertise in offshore matters and its ability to tackle complex commercial cases.

Client service: “A really great bunch of clerks, who are pragmatic, sensible and nice to chat with.” Paul Horsfield is head clerk.

SILKS

Alan Steinfeld KC

Alan Steinfeld KC is frequently instructed in the most high-profile and complex traditional chancery matters, and someone with extensive experience of trust cases. He is also highly sought after for offshore work. “Alan is first class. As well as having a wealth of legal knowledge and judgement, he perceives the heart of the issue readily, and knows instinctively which points to take and which to leave.” “A more personable and easy-going counsel you would be hard pushed to find.”

Francis Tregear KC

Francis Tregear KC is a respected silk with a well-established traditional chancery practice. He is a recognised authority on offshore and overseas matters, and has been called to the Bar of the Eastern Caribbean. He has an impressive depth of experience in trust and estate matters, and is particularly noted for his expertise in contentious proceedings. “Francis is great to work with and has a nice calm approach.”

David Brownbill KC

David Brownbill KC is a highly respected silk whose broad traditional chancery practice includes frequent instructions in complex matters both onshore and offshore. He is also noted for the depth of his technical knowledge. “Technically excellent, with an ability to see the whole picture, however complicated. He is a go-to for knotty trusts issues.”

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC has an exceptional reputation at the traditional Chancery Bar and is also noted for her skilful handling of large offshore matters. She is frequently sought after for the most complex, high-profile and high-value matters. “I have run out of superlatives for her – she is a brilliant person to have on your team. Her energy is unbelievable and her focus is steadfast. She also has a great rapport with the judge.”

Edward Cumming KC

Edward Cumming KC is respected for his handling of high-value cases across the full breadth of traditional chancery law. He regularly acts for very wealthy individuals. His recent work has included complex trust litigation. “He has an incredible intellect and knowledge of the law. He leaves no stone unturned in his investigations and advice, and his written work and tactical approach are sublime.”

JUNIORS

Elizabeth Weaver

Elizabeth Weaver is an eminent junior with a broad traditional chancery practice, who is frequently instructed in high-value matters, including cross-border cases. She handles a wide array of work, including trust disputes. “Liz has a very calming demeanour. She is unflappable and provides coherent and well thought through advice.”

Bajul Shah

Bajul Shah maintains an excellent reputation at the traditional Chancery Bar, regularly assisting charities, trustees and high net worth individuals on a wide range of matters. He is noted for his handling of both onshore and offshore matters. “He is a lovely guy, he’s a really clever man. Sharp as a tack and knows chancery stuff backwards. He’s a very effective advocate, a softly spoken individual but he gives off an endless air of reason.”

Adam Cloherty

Adam Cloherty is a respected junior with a wide-ranging practice who is frequently instructed in wills, trusts and estates matters. He has established impressive expertise in cross-border funds and charities litigation, and is also known for his work handling financial services and insolvency disputes. “Adam is really good to work with as he is good with clients and has a unique personal approach. He delivers succinct points.”

Andrew Holden

Andrew Holden is noted for his skilful handling of a wide variety of matters, including complex trusts, disputed wills and estates work. He attracts instructions in both UK-based and offshore cases, and is particularly well known for his handling of matters concerning protectors. “Andrew is a top trusts lawyer. He is an extremely agile thinker about issues and an extremely good lawyer, who works very hard. He is top of the bunch for juniors.”

Daniel Warents

Daniel Warents assists in sizeable trusts and probate disputes. “Brilliant with clients, he always goes the extra mile and is very much a team player.”

Tim Sherwin

Tim Sherwin has a traditional chancery practice that sees him undertaking contentious trusts, probate and succession cases, as well as Court of Protection matters. He has appeared in a number of important cases of late, some of them stretching in value into the hundreds of millions of pounds. “Tim is future silk material and is very robust in the opinions he gives. I am always confident that he will help to achieve the best potential outcome.”

 

CHARITIES

Edward Cumming KC

Edward Cumming KC is respected for his handling of high-value cases across the full breadth of traditional chancery law. He regularly acts for very wealthy individuals. His recent work has included complex trust litigation. “He has an incredible intellect and knowledge of the law. He leaves no stone unturned in his investigations and advice, and his written work and tactical approach are sublime.”

 

COMMERCIAL DISPUTE RESOLUTION

Alan Steinfeld KC, Stephen Moverley Smith KC, Elspeth Talbot Rice KC, Steven Thompson KC, Edward Cumming KC, Stuart Adair, Adam Cloherty, Steven Reed and Hugh Miall are all recommended.

XXIV Old Buildings possesses significant talent in the commercial litigation sphere at both silk and junior level, and has barristers who are praised by interviewees for being “able to handle complex and sophisticated matters with ease.” It is regularly involved in key cases across the sector. By way of example, recent matters handled by the tenants include Advinia Care Homes Limited v Bupa Care Homes Investments (Holdings) Limited & Others, a commercial dispute arising from the takeover of various care homes by another healthcare provider. Barristers here are not only experienced in handling disputes in the UK, but also frequently act in cases overseas, and have noteworthy experience in jurisdictions in the Middle East and the Caribbean, among many others. Instructing solicitors praise XXIV Old Buildings barristers as being “exceptionally able to digest, analyse and clearly articulate their advice, even when faced with the most complex cases.”

Client service: Paul Horsfield is the head of clerking, working alongside senior practice managers James Ladbrook and Perry Brown, who are both “exceptionally easy to deal with.” Horsfield runs a wider team that is “collegiate, pleasant and friendly.” “The clerks are without exception responsive and diligent.”

SILKS

Alan Steinfeld KC

“Alan is not only excellent on paper but has the ability to carry the court with him.”

Stephen Moverley Smith KC

“Stephen is very knowledgeable and very commercial. He has a real feel for the commercial reality of the cases he works on.”

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC

“Elspeth is an incredibly concise, practical and clear barrister.”

Steven Thompson KC

“Steven is a reassuringly measured and experienced presence for both the solicitor and the client.” “Great at handling witnesses, he very effectively cross-examines and manages to keep the court’s respect whilst eviscerating the evidence of a particular witness.”

Edward Cumming KC

“Edward is an incredibly good silk, who is fast, effective and efficient.”

JUNIORS

Stuart Adair

“Stuart is very capable and impressive. He is a formidable opponent.”

Adam Cloherty

“Adam is an extremely capable and very user-friendly barrister.” “He is very sharp-witted and very commercial.” “Adam is a great tactician, who is robust and thorough, and has an exceptional knowledge of his subject matter.”

Steven Reed

Steven Reed is a highly regarded barrister who focuses his commercial practice on disputes involving jurisdictional issues, consumer law, finance and litigious IP and media matters. “Steven is very knowledgeable and has a lot of experience.”

Hugh Miall

“He consistently impresses with his strategic approach and creative and careful legal analysis.” “Hugh is very approachable. He gets to the point quickly and inspires confidence.” “He is a superb extension of any team that has to deal with heavyweight commercial and corporate work.”

 

COMPANY

Alan Steinfeld KC, Francis Tregear KC, Edward Cumming KC and Stuart Adair are all recommended.

Market sources are quick to highlight the strength of the company offering at XXIV Old Buildings, and reserve particular praise for the strength of its expertise in connection with offshore matters. A number of the market’s leading barristers practise at the chambers and receive instructions in a variety of company matters. Commentators state: “This is a set with great heft, full of very professional advocates.”

Client service: Paul Horsfield is the head of clerking. “The clerks are responsive and very helpful.” “Always quick to come back to you, they understand the information you give them instantly and provide a great service.”

SILKS

Alan Steinfeld KC

Alan Steinfeld KC is an impressive practitioner who is frequently involved in high-profile cases. He has a wealth of experience in shareholder disputes, having made appearances in all the UK courts and those of the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, the BVI and the Channel Islands. His broad practice also takes in a host of commercial chancery and partnership matters. “Stunningly intelligent, he answers judges’ questions beautifully and simply.” “Alan is particularly good on difficult, challenging matters.”

Francis Tregear KC

Francis Tregear KC is regularly instructed by well-known City and offshore firms for both litigation and advisory work. He has a specialism in hedge fund and structured investment vehicle-related matters, as well as those concerning cross-border insolvency. His company offering is complemented by his experience in fraud, asset recovery and professional negligence work. “A pleasure to work with, he’s charming, unflappable under pressure, and someone who has the ear of the court.” “A brilliant lawyer.”

Edward Cumming KC

Edward Cumming KC is an impressive company silk who receives routine instructions from a number of top City law firms. His company work benefits from wider capabilities in commercial chancery and civil fraud. “Knowledgeable, creative, hard-working and responsive, he has a huge range and depth and is a pleasure to work with.”

JUNIORS

Stuart Adair

Stuart Adair is instructed in a variety of company law disputes, and has strong credentials in minority shareholder actions and claims against directors. His practice is international in scope, and includes further expertise in insolvency and fraud matters. “Very good with clients and so nice to work with.”

Daniel Warents

Daniel Warents is a talented company and commercial disputes lawyer. He has appeared before the Privy Council as well as cross-border matters within Bermuda. Daniel is highly experienced in BVI matters. “Incredibly assiduous, and a barrister who takes a mature approach to his cases.” “Great to work with and loved by clients.”

 

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Oliver Assersohn

Oliver Assersohn of XXIV Old Buildings is a highly regarded junior who is an expert at handling complex issues relating to mis-sold investments and breaches of the perimeter. Having been on secondment to the FCA, he has highly valuable insight into the workings of the regulator.”Oliver Assersohn is regarded very highly.” “He is very user-friendly and very experienced in financial services regulation.” “He is extremely knowledgeable about financial regulation in the UK and is clearly outstanding.”

 

FRAUD: CIVIL

Alan Steinfeld KC, Stephen Moverley Smith KC, Elspeth Talbot Rice KC, Steven Thompson KC and Edward Cumming KC are all recommended.

XXIV Old Buildings is regularly instructed in fraud-related disputes involving offshore jurisdictions such as the BVI and the Channel Islands. The set is also noted for its expertise in domestic disputes, and its members are experienced in the handling of cases involving allegations of conspiracy, misappropriation and fraudulent transactions. The team is also well versed in obtaining and opposing applications for injunctive relief, such as disclosure, freezing and search orders. Recent work for the set’s tenants includes acting in a claim brought by the US Bankruptcy Trustee to recover monies lost in a Ponzi scheme.

Client service: “James Ladbrook goes above and beyond to make sure assistance is always available. The clerks really invest time in keeping us up to date on legal developments.” “Paul Horsfield and Perry Brown are at the top of their game and provide a really good service.” “The clerks are very professional, helpful and commercial.”

SILKS

Alan Steinfeld KC

Alan Steinfeld KC is a respected silk well known for his work in the fields of offshore trusts, company law and civil fraud. He has conducted actions in a host of jurisdictions beyond the UK for many years. “Alan is incredibly intelligent and charming.” “He is experienced, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.”

Stephen Moverley Smith KC

Stephen Moverley Smith KC handles substantial civil fraud litigation as part of a practice that also covers trusts, finance and insolvency. He has acted in numerous international cases, relating to such jurisdictions as the BVI, Russia and Gibraltar. “Stephen has such a strategic and creative eye.” “Stephen is very creative with his strategy and good with his assessment of which arguments will run and which will not. He gives practical and expedient advice.” “He is very experienced and knowledgeable.”

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC is effective at dealing with large, multimillion-pound fraud and asset-tracing claims. Her practice also encompasses general commercial dispute resolution and traditional chancery. Many of her instructions have an international aspect. “Elspeth is direct, down to earth and commercial.” “Elspeth is unflappable and a very safe pair of hands.”

Steven Thompson KC

Steven Thompson KC has run a successful commercial practice in silk since being appointed in 2015, appearing in cases arising out of fraud in a number of jurisdictions. He has dealt with various allegations including breach of fiduciary duty and dishonest assistance. He is respected for his international experience in such jurisdictions as Russia, China, the BVI and Switzerland. “Steven has exceptional attention to detail and an analytical eye.”

Edward Cumming KC

Edward Cumming KC is a talented silk with a busy commercial practice, which includes frequent civil fraud instructions. He boasts extensive experience in acting as sole counsel. He is well regarded for his handling of matters involving banks. “Edward is a phenomenal barrister who cuts through the issues.” “He is very forensic.”

 

INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION: ARBITRATORS

Michael Black KC

Michael Black KC of XXIV Old Buildings is noted for his experience arbitrating complex disputes in the Middle East. He is well regarded for his ability to master the facts of challenging arbitrations and calm handling of tribunals. He has recently acted as arbitrator in DIFC, LCIA and ICC arbitrations. “Michael Black is an excellent arbitrator with superb knowledge of the law and exceptional case management skills.”

 

INTERNATIONAL ARBITRATION: GENERAL COMMERCIAL & INSURANCE

Michael Black KC

Michael Black KC of XXIV Old Buildings is known at the International Arbitration Bar for his longstanding experience in different types of disputes including those relating to company law and energy. His expertise in Middle Eastern matters is well recognised within the market, as is his ability to represent national and international clients in arbitrations under the auspices of various arbitral bodies including the LCIA, ICC and DIFC. “He’s got a very strong knowledge of the Middle East.” “He’s very clever and straight.”

 

MEDIATORS

Michael King

Michael King of XXIV Old Buildings is a well-known chancery barrister who brings his vast experience of contentious trusts matters to mediations. A solicitor says that he is “very, very good,” and continues: “He has the technical knowledge and client-handling skills. His judgement is very, very good, and he is highly emotionally intelligent.”

 

OFFSHORE

Alan Steinfeld KC, Stephen Moverley Smith KC, Francis Tregear KC, David Brownbill KC, Elspeth Talbot Rice KC, Edward Cumming KC, Elizabeth Weaver, Marcus Staff, Bajul Shah, Nicole Langlois, Adam Cloherty, Andrew Holden and Daniel Warents are all recommended.

XXIV Old Buildings maintains a superb reputation for its handling of an array of offshore work, with members frequently appearing in trusts, funds, fraud and restructuring disputes. The set is able to offer significant expertise in the Channel Islands, the BVI and the Cayman Islands, as well as in the Middle and Far Eastern jurisdictions. Members appear in high-profile cases including Wong v Grand View. One source highlights: “All the lawyers at the set are brilliant in what they do. Their offshore practitioners are leaders in their field.” A solicitor comments: “XXIV Old Buildings have exceptional barristers who we can always match to our particular needs.”

Client service: “It’s always a pleasure dealing with the clerks at XXIV Old Buildings. James Ladbrook, senior practice manager, and Paul Horsfield, head of clerking, are always prepared to go the extra mile.” “The clerks are a really great bunch. They are pragmatic, sensible and nice to chat with. James Ladbrook is a standout clerk, but in general they are all great.” “Perry Brown, senior practice manager, is an amazing clerk with incredible communication skills.”

SILKS

Alan Steinfeld KC

Alan Steinfeld KC has wide commercial and traditional chancery expertise and a profound knowledge of trust disputes. He has broad offshore experience across the Channel Islands, the Caribbean and Hong Kong. Steinfeld is well versed in hedge fund, investment fund and property disputes. He is also active on behalf of private clients in family and estate disputes. “He is highly regarded and well known.” “Alan Steinfeld is always someone I would consider for difficult, challenging trusts matters. He is one of the most respected and talented senior barristers in practice.”

Stephen Moverley Smith KC

Stephen Moverley Smith KC is well versed in a range of commercial cases, including those concerning restructuring, fraud and insolvency. He also specialises in fraud and corruption cases. “He is one of the most experienced offshore lawyers. Stephen is particularly good for difficult cases because he is very creative with his strategy and gives practical and expedient advice.” “He is a legend in the offshore world.” “He brings a kind of assured gravitas to the courtroom. Barristers and judges who are looking for someone to say something sensible will look to him.”

Francis Tregear KC

Francis Tregear KC is well known for his liquidation work, and he has acted for clients in Bermuda, the BVI and the Cayman Islands. He offers additional expertise in trust disputes and has been active in Jersey. Tregear regularly acts for shareholders and liquidators. “Francis Tregear is well regarded in the traditional chancery space and is a name in the offshore market.” “He is very strong and great to work with.”

David Brownbill KC

David Brownbill KC is a natural choice for the most complex and contentious trusts litigation. He is frequently called upon to handle work in the Channel Islands, the BVI and the Cayman Islands. His specialism lies in multi-jurisdictional and high-value traditional and commercial chancery work. Brownbill is particularly sought after for claims arising out of liquidation and insolvency. “David Brownbill is a very forceful advocate and has a strong reputation in the offshore jurisdictions.” “He is a hands-on advocate with a seemingly tireless strive to achieve a positive result for the client.”

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC is a highly regarded and much sought-after expert who handles a full spectrum of commercial and traditional chancery work. She has experience of acting in jurisdictions spanning the BVI, Bermuda and the UK Crown Dependencies, and acts for both claimants and defendants in significant trust and estates disputes. She has particular experience in cases concerning asset transfers and restructuring. “Her knowledge is second to none. She commands the courtroom and goes the extra mile for her clients every time.” “As a team leader she has an amazing ability to get the best of everyone around her and has the most incredible work ethic. She leads by example.” “She is incredibly sharp in her approach and really thinks about things commercially.”

Edward Cumming KC

Edward Cumming KC is highly regarded among peers for his excellent advocacy skills. He frequently appears in trust, company and general commercial litigation. He has a substantial offshore practice and appears in Singapore, South Africa and Mauritius, alongside more traditional jurisdictions in the Caribbean and Channel Islands. Cumming is instructed on behalf of multinational corporates in addition to high net worth private clients. “He is hard-working and has tons of trial experience. Clients enjoy his advocacy.” “He is our go-to KC. Edward Cumming is exceptionally bright, affable and a team player.” “He is fantastic. He is pragmatic and advises on what we should do strategically and what the most sensible approach may be.”

JUNIORS

Elizabeth Weaver

Elizabeth Weaver is a deeply experienced junior barrister, well versed in professional negligence and general chancery matters. She is routinely called upon for her expertise in international trusts disputes, high-value commercial litigation and asset recovery, and also frequently acts for ultra high net worth families. She has been called to the Bar of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court and has been active in the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

Marcus Staff

Marcus Staff is particularly active in the Caribbean jurisdictions, having appeared in the Cayman Islands and the BVI. He is frequently instructed in contentious trust disputes, handling such issues as the removal of trustees and tax-related matters. He has also been involved in matters relating to investment funds and civil fraud. “Marcus Staff provided clear and concise advice in technically tricky cases.” “He is knowledgeable, user-friendly and client-focused.”

Bajul Shah

Bajul Shah has an enviable offshore practice and handles cases in Dubai, Cyprus, the Caribbean and the Channel Islands. He offers expertise in a broad range of commercial chancery areas, including insolvency, trusts, probate and civil fraud, and is frequently called upon by liquidators and trustees. “Bajul Shah has encyclopedic intelligence and he will see through the cracks to tell you the route you should be taking. He is a very soothing and eloquent advocate and judges just love him.” “He is a superb barrister, who always gets things done and is always on top of the detail.”

Nicole Langlois

Nicole Langlois is a respected junior with considerable credentials in commercial contractual and trust litigation, whose other areas of expertise include insolvency and fraud. She is called to the Bar in both the UK and Jersey. She regularly handles cases with professional negligence and breach of trust allegations. “She is a very good advocate.” “She is well regarded for Channel Islands work.”

Adam Cloherty

Adam Cloherty impresses sources with his courtroom advocacy skills, and has particular experience of BVI and Cayman Islands cases. His clients, who include beneficiaries and shareholders, benefit from his extensive trust knowledge. He has also handled matters in Jersey, Guernsey, the Isle of Man and Gibraltar. “Adam Cloherty is excellent. He comes up with new points and is not afraid to argue them. A valuable addition to any team and has real expertise in fraud.”

Andrew Holden

Andrew Holden receives consistent praise for his deep level of experience in trust litigation work. He also handles pension and liquidation disputes. His experience extends to Bermuda, the Channel Islands, the BVI and the Cayman Islands, among others. Holden acts on behalf of high net worth families and individuals as well as commercial entities. “Andrew Holden is a promising advocate with strong legal and advocacy skills.” “He does a good and very sensible job for his clients.”

Daniel Warents

Daniel Warents is highly regarded for his expertise in handling chancery and commercial cases. He is instructed on a range of issues including fraud, company wind-ups and trust matters. He is called to the BVI Bar and has extensive experience in the Cayman Islands, Bermuda and the Isle of Man. “He is highly rated and an utter pleasure to work with.” “Daniel Warents is very clever, has a good manner and is down to earth whilst also being intellectually rigorous.” “He is a real workaholic. Daniel Warents is fantastic and works tirelessly.”

 

PARTNERSHIP

Alan Steinfeld KC, Elspeth Talbot Rice KC and Helen Galley are all recommended.

XXIV Old Buildings is a set that offers a strong bench of partnership practitioners on both the contentious and non-contentious sides. Its members act for financial services clients, property developers and traditional family-owned partnership structures, among others, and have particular strength in partnership cases in offshore jurisdictions. Members here are noted for being “very switched on and very commercial.” Key cases in the past year include Lawlor & Others v Medivet Group, where around 50 separate claims were made against Medivet, one of the largest veterinary services providers in the country. Each claimant was in partnership with one of the Medivet entities, and alleged that Medivet had been improperly charging their practices with costs Medivet had incurred in running its own business.

Client service: Head of clerking Paul Horsfield leads up a team of clerks who are “always willing to help and clearly very well trained. They’re very clued up and will do everything they can when things are urgent.” “Tommie Drury, practice manager, is really friendly. He is willing to go the extra mile for you.”

SILKS

Alan Steinfeld KC

Alan Steinfeld KC commands tremendous respect as one of the London Bar’s most active and redoubtable commercial and chancery silks, being particularly well known for his handling of partnership matters with a strong commercial or financial services aspect. He regularly acts in complex partnership issues considered in the courts of a number of British offshore territories. “Alan is extremely impressive – he has great gravitas and is someone who commands the courtroom.” “He is immensely intellectually capable.”

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC is noted for combining a formidable courtroom presence with widely admired clarity of thought when dealing with especially complex and highly contentious partnership matters. Her experience covers the full range of partnership types, and she has particular familiarity with issues affecting commercial, financial services or family-owned structures. “Elspeth is a very effective advocate.” “Anyone who comes up against her has a real fight on their hands.”

JUNIORS

Helen Galley

Helen Galley is a seasoned senior junior with a robust practice that covers both general chancery law and partnership law. She is notable for her expertise in property development and farming partnership disputes. Galley also provides advice on partnership dissolution. “Quick-witted and sensible, she takes a pragmatic approach in order to drive forward a settlement or reach a satisfactory conclusion.”

 

REAL ESTATE LITIGATION

Helen Galley

“Helen Galley is very experienced and is able to have the tough conversations with clients, particularly when they need to know the hard truths.” “Helen is a safe pair of hands.”

 

RESTRUCTURING/INSOLVENCY

Alan Steinfeld KC, Stephen Moverley Smith KC, Stuart Adair and Hugh Miall are all recommended.

XXIV Old Buildings offers expertise in both domestic and international insolvency matters, and its members are highly regarded for their handling of cases arising in offshore jurisdictions such as the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands and the Isle of Man. Areas of expertise for the team include complex administrations, liquidations and both company and individual voluntary arrangements. The set’s barristers are also well versed in directors’ disqualification proceedings and asset tracing and recovery matters.

Client service: Paul Horsfield is head of clerking.

SILKS

Alan Steinfeld KC

Alan Steinfeld KC stands out for his active practice in offshore jurisdictions, notably the British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands. He also routinely advises clients in significant domestic litigation.

Stephen Moverley Smith KC

Stephen Moverley Smith KC attracts major international instructions owing to his deep experience in cross-border matters. He frequently appears in courts in the British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands, as well as the Privy Council. He has a particularly robust reputation in the area of offshore work and trusts.

JUNIORS

Stuart Adair

Stuart Adair is a popular choice for clients seeking high-quality advice on both contentious and non-contentious matters in the insolvency arena. He is frequently instructed in the most litigious disputes and has expertise in cases concerning claims of misfeasance, fraudulent trading and setting aside prior transactions. “Stuart is able to think outside the box.”

Hugh Miall

Hugh Miall is a well-regarded junior with a broad insolvency and restructuring practice spanning both contentious and non-contentious work. He is particularly adept at advising on cross-border matters and foreign insolvencies. He also offers expertise in asset recovery after bankruptcy or liquidation, claims involving antecedent transactions and misfeasance, IVAs and CVAs, and winding-up proceedings. “Hugh is a good technical barrister. He is user-friendly and commercial.”

 

SPORT

Ian Meakin

Ian Meakin of XXIV Old Buildings is a Formula 1 expert who frequently acts in highly contentious contractual matters involving the motorsport industry. He has also acted in cases concerning football and a range of high-profile doping cases. “Ian Meakin is a well-regarded barrister.”

 

TRAVEL: REGULATORY & COMMERCIAL

Bajul Shah

Bajul Shah undertakes commercial disputes in the aviation industry, and has substantial aircraft leasing and maintenance knowledge. He also advises on product liability and potential engineering negligence issues. “Bajul is outstanding. He is an excellent advocate and is very personable.”

 

TRUSTS

SILKS

Alan Steinfeld KC

Alan Steinfeld KC is active across a wide array of practice areas and has a substantial focus on trust law. He is experienced in offshore, as well as domestic, trusts disputes, and is recognised for his familiarity with international arbitrations in connection with contentious trust matters. “A formidable opponent who gets up to speed very quickly.”

David Brownbill KC

David Brownbill KC is noted for his strong track record in private client litigation and has specific expertise in trust law. He is the editor of leading textbook ‘International Trust Laws’ and is often instructed in high-profile offshore disputes. His expertise also extends to trust issues in the context of investment funds. “David is a very talented trusts lawyer. He is very competent and inspires a lot of confidence in the people that work with him.” “Very bright, accessible, and client-friendly.”

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC

Elspeth Talbot Rice KC is a widely admired barrister with a very strong track record in trusts litigation. She is frequently instructed by many leading solicitors in this field and often acts in very significant and high-value disputes, both onshore and offshore. Peers recognise her as a leading silk who deals with the most high-profile cases in the trusts world. “She is an incredibly concise, practical and clear barrister.”

JUNIORS

Marcus Staff

Marcus Staff is a former head of the set’s Geneva office. A man with long experience of handling trusts-related work, he counts a number of key solicitors firms among those that instruct him. He demonstrated his credentials in the trusts sphere by appearing in Schmidt v Rosewood Trustees, the leading trusts case heard in the Privy Council in the last 20 years. “Hugely impressive and a delight to work with.”

Andrew Holden

Andrew Holden appears in a wide variety of both domestic and international trusts matters, acting both as a litigator and in an advisory capacity. He is an expert in trust structuring and trust protectors. Holden is particularly adept at handling large offshore disputes and often acts in high-profile, multibillion-dollar disputes in key jurisdictions. “Andrew is very knowledgeable and is easy to work with He delivers.”

Tim Sherwin

Tim Sherwin has a strong chancery practice which includes taking instructions in contentious trusts and estates matters, as well as handling company and insolvency disputes. He also advises in respect of non-contentious trust matters. “Tim has built up a really strong practice and reputation in the contentious trusts field and is starting to make a name for himself in offshore work. He is a good, solid practitioner and is operating well ahead of the field in his call range.” “He is very responsive and has a clear, crisp drafting style.”