Chambers & Partners 2020

Wilberforce Chambers enjoys a sterling reputation both for its “depth of talent” and its well-honed credentials in commercial chancery work, with fellow practitioners labelling the set a “serious rival” in highly contested commercial disputes. The set also exhibits considerable skill in a broad range of non-contentious advisory work, alongside additional expertise in pension, professional liability, trusts and property-related mandates. The pedigree of its members is amply demonstrated in their appearances in some of most complex and challenging disputes of recent years, including AHAB v Saad, the largest trial ever heard in the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands, and in claims launched by the Libyan Investment Authority to recoup funds from a number of Western financial institutions.

Client service: “Very efficient.” “A very slick operation with responsive clerking.” “I find the clerks to be polite, constructive, effective and easy to deal with.” The team is led by head clerk Mark Rushton.

Alan Gourgey QC
A strong advocate with a commanding reputation at the Chancery Bar. He is highly sought after for shareholder disputes, banking matters, and international commercial work.
“Highly intelligent and analytical.” “Experienced and highly capable.” “Someone who is on top of their game.”
Recent work: Appeared successfully on behalf of the claimant in JSC BM Bank v Kekhman, following allegations against the defendant oligarch of deceit and unlawful means conspiracy in respect of a loan made to a Russian group of companies.

Andrew Mold
A well-liked junior with a broad chancery practice, who is effective in fraud and breach of fiduciary duty cases. He is admired for the quality of his advice and advocacy. His work also includes property, pensions and partnership disputes.
“Superb.” “Super clever and a really nice guy. He’s extremely hard-working, with a massive eye for detail.”
Recent work: Successfully acted for an investment manager in resisting an application to wind up an investment fund in proceedings in the Cayman Islands.

Anna Littler
A talented junior with a direct and focused approach to commercial chancery work, who shines in civil fraud and insolvency work. Interviewees praise her for her ability to work through a complicated question and produce a reliable answer. She has considerable experience in offshore work, including in the Isle of Man and the Caribbean.
“In paperwork, she has a gift for finding the key points out of the mountain of detail and presenting them clearly and concisely.” “She’s an absolute pleasure to work with, she’s extremely thorough, leaves no stone unturned and is responsive and reassuring.”
Recent work: Acted for a defendant in claims brought by the Libyan Investment Authority against a number of financial institutions over investments it alleges were procured by bribery and corruption under the Gaddafi regime.

Clare Stanley QC
A respected silk whose broad-ranging commercial chancery practice includes fraud, insolvency and asset tracing both domestically and abroad. She is regularly instructed on high-value and complex matters.
“Clare is always very helpful, down to earth and friendly. She tries to find practical solutions.”
Recent work: Instructed by Argyle Funds as an appellant to successfully set aside an anti-suit injunction made against it at first instance, restraining Argyle from suing the affiliates of BDO in New York for alleged audit negligence and fraudulent concealment for failing to spot and alert Argyle to a large-scale fraud by its credit advisers.

Edward Sawyer
A respected junior with a straightforward approach to commercial chancery matters. He is sought-after for cases with a large volume of documentary evidence, and for matters with some international element.
“A bright and effective chancery and commercial junior.” “He is massively in demand for a reason – he is absolutely brilliant. He’s very smart, clear, and fantastically good on paper. Very good.”
Recent work: Defended three former trustees against claims brought by a current trustee, alleging breach of trust by failing to collect a debt owed to the trust.

Emer Murphy
Has a varied practice that encompasses property, trusts and professional negligence cases. Sources describe her as an effective advocate who produces especially attractive paperwork.
“Very bright, hard-working and user-friendly – a future star of the Bar.” “Simply the best junior we have used. Her attention to detail and knowledge of the papers was frankly astounding and her work on a complex and lengthy set of closings in a very short space of time was highly impressive. She really assisted in driving the case along.”
Recent work: Represented the European Medicines Agency in a highly publicised dispute with Canary Wharf over its lease of an office space, alleging the consequences of the United Kingdom’s vote to leave the European Union will frustrate the lease.

Fenner Moeran QC
A well-known silk who is particularly experienced in chancery matters with both traditional and commercial aspects. He is frequently instructed on high-value and high-profile work.
“Fenner is commercially minded, pragmatic, unflappable, excellent on his feet and always available to give direct, insightful advice when required.”

Graeme Halkerston
A noted junior with a respected commercial chancery practice, particularly global freezing litigation. He was a litigation partner in the Cayman Islands for six years, and as a result is an exceptionally good choice for international, offshore and cross-border matters.
“Always a favourite for complex, high-value litigation. Professional clients like his brisk punchy style. He’s a street fighter.”
Recent work: Acted for Turkish individual defendant in response to proceedings brought by a liquidator of a Romanian bank to enforce a USD130 million Romanian judgment arising from the collapse of the bank, which the Romanian courts found was the result of a criminal fraud by the defendant’s father.

Iain Pester
A respected junior who is highly sought-after for company litigation, partnership disputes, and conflict of laws matters. He is also noted for his work in civil fraud. His strong command of Russian makes him an unusually fine choice of counsel for matters with some Russian element.
“He listens and responds astutely to problems given or created. He’s very strong, he’s a very good advocate and will go far.”
Recent work: Acted for the fifth and sixth defendants in a case brought by Brent Council in a case involving allegations of unlawful means conspiracy, knowing receipt, breach of fiduciary duty and misfeasance in public office.

Ian Croxford QC
A powerful advocate with a good deal of experience in the commercial chancery world. His practice has a particularly prominent civil fraud strand. He also has extensive experience of dealing with high-profile professional negligence cases against solicitors, accountants and stockbrokers.
“An absolute genius. He loves court work and is brilliant at it, tactics are always spot-on. Just a really, really good cross-examiner.” “An excellent advocate, very capable. A great courtroom lawyer.”

James Ayliffe QC
Has a broad commercial chancery practice and has handled many joint venture and real property cases. He is regarded as very thorough and measured in his approach and is also recognised for his work on professional negligence, real estate and contentious trust matters.
“He’s simply outstanding; he’s very bright and user-friendly. He provides measured and balanced advice and is a persuasive advocate.” “He’s a very good, strong QC. He’s shown himself to be pretty adept at handling the commercial strategy as well as the law.”
Recent work: Acted on behalf of a group of 169 claimants who, alongside additional investors, invested USD45 million in the acquisition of interests in a failed St Lucia resort development, seeking to recover their monies from a trustee company which wrongly released the monies before the development had been satisfactorily completed.

James Bailey QC
A new silk who is building on a respected junior practice. He is most often instructed on long-running and high-profile cases and appears in the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court.
“James is my first choice of counsel for matters being dealt with in London. He is first class and well deserving of his recent elevation to silk. He can always be relied upon to meet deadlines, he’s proactive when it comes to developing overall strategy, he has the confidence of the clients, and he is a brilliant advocate in court.”
Recent work: Acted for a consortium led by Canadian billionaire Lawrence Stroll in acquiring the business and assets of the Force India racing team.

James McCreath
A bright and well-regarded junior with a broad commercial chancery practice. Sources praise him for his technical ability and his willingness to work hard. His cases often involve property, pensions or trusts.
“A real rising star who is a real team player and has amazing judgement and knowledge.” “He displays a valuable and unerringly reliable intuition about how courts will respond to arguments both in interim applications and more generally. He is unflappable and makes himself available when you need him. He wears his considerable intellect lightly and is genuinely a pleasure to work with.”
Recent work: Instructed by the appellant in Frederick v Positive Solutions, following the appellant’s investment in a failed property venture with a real estate-backed loan via a mortgage broker who had submitted a fraudulent application.

Joanna Smith QC
Highly respected silk with a wide-ranging commercial chancery practice. She is sought after for commercial matters, including shareholder disputes, insolvency, professional negligence and other high-profile and high-value work.
“A great lawyer and a very good advocate in court. She was outstanding in her mastery of legal concepts and delivery as an advocate. She’s incredibly hard-working, but really nice to work with.”
Recent work: Instructed in a claim against two firms of lawyers and leading counsel for £60 million arising out of the conduct of litigation.

John Wardell QC
A widely renowned silk whose broad commercial chancery practice includes company, joint venture and partnership matters. He is sought after by a wide range of clients, including banks and high net worth individuals.
“He is one of an increasingly rare breed of advocates who do not just turn up to deliver a prepared speech but can and do react to developments fully and have an instinct about when and when not to go in for the kill. There have been times during Wardell’s cross-examination which have contained moments of sublime drama which have been better than anything I have seen at the Royal Shakespeare Company and in those moments I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else but in that courtroom.”
Recent work: Defended RBS in an £80 million claim brought by the liquidators of a number of companies caught up in a VAT fraud involving carbon credit, alleging RBS traders dishonestly assisted breaches of fiduciary duty committed by the directors of those companies and that they were knowing parties to fraudulent trading.

Lawrence Cohen QC
An experienced commercial chancery silk who leads substantial and complicated matters to successful conclusions. His recent caseload has involved a significant element of shareholder dispute work and an international aspect.
“A highly experienced commercial chancery silk, with an excellent feel for trial strategy and dynamics.”
Recent work: Acted for the claimant in Planck Holdings v Tinsel Group, in proceedings for breach of Dutch shareholders’ agreement and to overturn a corporate redesignation of shares in company stripping future profit rights.

Lexa Hilliard QC
A former academic whose exceptional depth of expertise is widely respected throughout the Commercial Chancery Bar. She is frequently instructed on both litigation and advisory work and is noted for her confident handling of insolvency matters.
“She’s bright and she gets to the commercial centre of the point quickly. She’s responsive and straightforward, and clients like her.” “She has incredible depth of knowledge and experience in the insolvency field. Her approach is refreshingly considered and measured, and she is also very strategic and robust.”
Recent work: Appeared in Barrowfen Properties v Stephens & Bolton, a claim launched against a law firm alleging negligence, conspiracy and dishonest assistance.

Max Mallin QC
A former investment banker whose respected and wide-ranging commercial chancery practice often includes international and cross-border matters. He is noted for his particular expertise in commercial fraud and financial markets disputes.
“He gives the court the route-map it wants and needs to get to the heart of a matter, and the court loves him for it. He’s strong but empathetic with clients.”
Recent work: Instructed by the claimant in KSGL v King and others, in a Part 8 claim for an order for the sale of shares in a private company.

Terence Mowschenson QC
A respected and highly experienced silk with a depth of expertise in company, banking, insolvency and commercial matters. He handles both litigation and advisory work and is noted for his dispute resolution in mediation and arbitration as well as court.
“Terry is a fantastic lawyer. He has incredible passion for both the law and the facts, is truly inventive and is a very convincing advocate, both in writing and orally. And he is always available to discuss matters.” “He’s very good and very effective at taking the court with him in his argument.”
Recent work: Acted for the claimant in Qunar Cayman Islands v Blackwell Partners in proceedings to establish the fair value of shares in relation to the power of the court to grant interim payments to dissenting shareholders.

Thomas Lowe QC
An able advocate who is respected for his handling of high-value and high-profile matters across the full scope of commercial chancery. He is particularly fine choice of counsel for matters in the BVI and the Cayman Islands, as he has full practising certificates in both jurisdictions.
“An incredible advocate and great strategist. He’s the real deal in the offshore world.” “An outstanding intellect, an amazing advocate and great at strategy. Very approachable, always responds in a timely fashion, always gets everything done – a solicitor’s dream.”
Recent work: Acted in a USD100 million claim for breach of fiduciary duty and knowing receipt in relation to the collapse of the Abraaj Group.

Thomas Robinson
A well-liked junior with an aptitude for technically complicated legal issues. His practice includes both pensions and insolvency cases, as well as other general commercial chancery work. Robinson regularly appears in offshore cases.
“An excellent junior with a very collegiate approach.” “He’s incredibly tenacious and a really good opponent. He’s straight with his arguments and very, very impressive.”
Recent work: Appeared as sole counsel for the defendants in Courtwood Holdings v Woodley Properties, over allegations of knowing receipt in sums of almost £3.5 million.

Tiffany Scott QC
A recent silk with a depth of experience in commercial chancery matters, particularly fund and partnership disputes and work with some international element. She is noted for her calm and confident client-management and practical approach to advisory matters.
“A very capable counsel who provides clear and succinct advice.” “She’s a very able chancery practitioner, a good advocate and an excellent team member.” “Tiffany managed the clients well in conference, established their trust quickly and addressed a number of difficult issues with them. Tiffany was accessible and responsive when at times faced with tight timeframes.”
Recent work: Acted on behalf of the defendant in Andusia Recovered Fuels v GBN Services, in a dispute over an agreement to supply fuel. The claimant claims the agreement was suspended due to a significant shutdown of a supplier’s plant and should resume now that the plant is operational.

Tim Penny QC
A popular commercial chancery silk with a depth of experience in commercial fraud and partnership disputes. He is particularly respected for his work on freezing orders and is often sought after for cross-border matters.
“He’s clear, well liked by clients and very quick.” “He’s extremely user-friendly and has sound judgement. He’s an impressive advocate and very likeable.”
Recent work: Appeared in a claim by joint receivers of Sebastian Holdings for dishonest breach of duty and in constructive trust in England and the Turks & Caicos Islands.

Wilberforce Chambers is a highly respected traditional chancery set. Its broad array of silks and juniors are instructed on a diverse range of matters, including trusts, pensions and disputed wills. The barristers are noted for their strength in offshore matters. “Counsel there are reliable, with a real star quality,” says one source, adding: “There is a fantastic choice at silk level.” Another enthuses: “They are the first people I pick up the phone to, with a vast array of people you can call in on short notice, many of whom are specialists in the area.”

Client service: “Easy to deal with and always helpful. They are very accessible.” “The service is outstanding and the clerks are responsive and helpful.” The practice director is Nicholas Luckman, and the head practice manager is Mark Rushton.

Andrew Child
Enjoys a commanding reputation in the field of traditional chancery. He is regularly sought after for high-value matters domestically, offshore and in cross-border situations.
“Forceful and clear in his advice.” “A force in the field.” “He has a great analytical brain and is excellent in court.”
Recent work: Acted in a multimillion-pound recovery action in which an estate sought to potentially recoup very large sums that a deceased had given away to family members during her lifetime.

Andrew Mold
Has a wide-ranging traditional chancery practice. Sources highlight his particular expertise in matters with some matrimonial trust aspect. He also advises on complex fraud and pensions matters.
“He has a fantastic academic pedigree and is very clear in his oral and written advice. There is a complete logical clarity to his thinking; he makes it easy for lay clients.” “He works extremely hard and is all over the detail of the matter.”
Recent work: Successfully acted for an investment manager in resisting an application to wind up an investment fund in proceedings in the Cayman Islands.

Brian Green QC
A respected silk whose depth of experience in both contentious and non-contentious matters is widely recognised. He works on a range of challenging cases both domestically and offshore.
“Absolutely outstanding.” “Really pre-eminent.” “A private client oracle – a real authority.”
Recent work: Acted for Barnardo’s in the Supreme Court on the principles of construction to be applied to a UK occupational pension scheme with provisions drafted in a particular Inland Revenue approved context.

Clare Stanley QC
Acts in a wide range of private client and trust litigation, regularly handling highly complex disputes. She is frequently instructed in high-value matters both onshore and offshore.
“She has a mastery of trusts disputes. She is very straightforward to deal with and very pragmatic, with a ‘no panic’ approach. She’s an excellent advocate, and is extremely thorough and well prepared.” “She’s very solid and very sound. She gives a firm view and sticks to it.”
Recent work: Acted for the parents and sisters of an individual who brought a proprietary estoppel and constructive trust claim alleging that he had worked on the family farm in reliance on promises from his father that the farm would belong to him.

Emily Campbell
Well-known junior with a highly respected traditional chancery practice, encompassing both advisory and contentious trusts matters and estate planning. She is noted for her capability with extremely detailed or complex cases.
“Really, really bright.”

Fenner Moeran QC
Particularly focused on pensions and associated trusts, although he is also regularly instructed on other contentious trusts. He has a substantial advisory practice both onshore and offshore.
“He’s incredibly quick-thinking, and very straight-talking. He establishes a good rapport with clients and can explain things to them in understandable terms.” “He is passionate and enthusiastic. If you want someone who will fight and give it everything, he’s your man.”

Gilead Cooper QC
An eminent silk whose respected chancery practice is focused on contentious property and trusts. He attracts a wealth of praise for his advocacy.
“An extremely sage advocate; he is always very considered in his approach.” “He has an enormous amount of experience in chancery trial advocacy.” “He is exceptionally bright. He is regularly instructed on the more complex claims in this area.”
Recent work: Instructed in a claim brought in the Jersey Royal Court by a Kenyan company against the trustees of a Jersey trust. The allegation is that the purpose of the trust was to siphon assets out of a company, and that the trustees are liable for knowing assistance in a breach of trust committed over several decades by the former directors of the company.

Jonathan Davey QC
Frequently sought after for high-value and high-profile traditional chancery matters. He is noted for his expertise in charities and pensions matters, and for handling highly complex tax litigation.
“He’s responsive, thoughtful, and open-minded. He listens to the client and the solicitor and is very collaborative in his approach.”
Recent work: Instructed in a test case regarding the inheritance tax provisions relating to ‘gifts with reservation’ in relation to family homes. The case concerned the late Lady Hood’s arrangement with her son for a home in Chelsea.

Jonathan Hilliard QC
“Extremely bright” silk who has a broad traditional chancery practice, including a wide array of trusts matters and a substantial amount of advisory work. He is widely respected for his depth of technical knowledge.
“He has a ferocious work ethic, an incredible attention to detail and a creative sense.” “He makes complicated things sound simple and easy to follow.”
Recent work: Acted successfully before the Bermuda Court in a contested trust claim for authority for a company to enter into an investment.

Judith Bryant
Advises on a range of trusts work on both the contentious and non-contentious sides, and is instructed both onshore and offshore. She is also noted for her considerable experience of alternative methods of dispute resolution.
“She has a huge wealth of experience to draw on and she applies that in a very pragmatic way. She’s very calm under pressure.”

Michael Furness QC
A deeply respected silk who is the head of chambers at Wilberforce. He has an impressive depth of knowledge across the board in traditional chancery, and is highly respected for his offshore and overseas litigation.
“He’s very to work with and, for a senior QC, he’s very accessible. He is personable and responsive, happy to muck in and get stuff done. He’s also very thorough, and has an encyclopedic knowledge of trust law.” “Clear and authoritative.”

Robert Ham QC
Focuses his practice on trusts and other private client work, including tax matters, both contentious and non-contentious. He is regularly instructed in cases which go to the Supreme Court.
“A leading authority for years; he is very forceful and persuasive without overstepping the mark.” “He has a great aura and presence about him whatever he does.”
Recent work: Instructed in a Court of Appeal case concerning a registered charity, which sought approval of a grant of USD360 million to a new charity established by one of its trustees.

Tiffany Scott QC
Recent silk who has a depth of experience in both contentious and non-contentious trusts matters, and is frequently instructed by charities, high net worth individuals and estates. She is also noted for her offshore work.
“She’s extremely diligent, with a good strategic focus. She comes from a broad practice background, so she’s comfortable with all different types of matters and robust in court.” “She is confident and inspires confidence, respectful and inspires respect.”
Recent work: Instructed in a claim by a cohabitee seeking reasonable financial provision from the estate of her deceased partner, who died at the Isle of Man’s TT race, for herself and the couple’s two young children. The deceased’s will left his estate to his adult children from a previous marriage.

Charities (Band 3)

THE SET

A well-regarded chancery and commercial set that offers a compact team of charities practitioners. Its individuals’ charities practices are well complemented by chambers’ strong showing in tax, private client and UK and offshore trusts work. Members regularly act for trusts and charitable organisations in tribunals.

Client service: Mark Rushton is head practice manager. He is “excellent, responsive, and knowledgeable on which barristers are appropriate for which matters.”

Noted for its astounding breadth of expertise, Wilberforce Chambers has members who can represent clients in a variety of jurisdictions, including Bermuda, Singapore and Hong Kong. They handle an array of different disputes, from shareholder and company matters to partnership, professional negligence, pensions, insolvency, fraud and conspiracy cases. Recent clients have included oil corporations, banks and even foreign governments. One highlight of the chambers’ latest work has been the Supreme Court case of Frederick v Positive Solutions Financial Service Limited, which examined the law of vicarious liability in the context of fraudulent conduct. Sources remark that Wilberforce Chambers has “a fine range of technically excellent barristers at different levels of call, who can provide superior advice across different areas of law both domestically and internationally.”

Client service: “Anything I need is done. The clerks foster very good relationships and their service is seamless –  they really know what they’re doing.” “The clerks are efficient, friendly and responsive.” Mark Rushton is the head practice manager.

Alan Gourgey QC
“Cuts through complex issues and gets to the key points with apparent ease, and proves willing to explore different avenues of argument.” “He combines a superb legal brain with a no-nonsense attitude.”
Recent work: Acted for the Russian JSC BM Bank, which was awarded over USD150 million in its claim against ‘banana king’ oligarch Vladimir Kekhman for deceit and unlawful means conspiracy.

Ian Croxford QC
“Always incredibly well prepared and good at keeping the confidence of the court, he has an answer to every question they ask of him.” “Ian’s a real student of advocacy and a tactical thinker.”

James Walmsley
“His analytical skills and his ability to get up to speed with really complex matters are terrific.”
Recent work: Advised in the ‘Project Asia’ case, a contractual termination dispute relating to the administration of a major pension scheme.

John Wardell QC
“John takes input from all parties in a very collaborative manner, and is an extremely good cross-examiner with a very good forensic style.” “He’s a really brave advocate who’s clear in his advice.”
Recent work: Acted in AHAB v Saad Investments Company, the biggest fraud case ever heard in the Cayman Islands. The claim was for over USD4 billion.

Marcia Shekerdemian QC
“Her technical knowledge is second to none, and she’s user-friendly.” “She gets straight to the heart of a matter, is very good at picking out things that really matter, and really works as part of the team.”
Recent work: Acted for the claimant and majority shareholders in re Jabac Finance Ltd, which included breach of statutory and fiduciary duty and conspiracy to injure claims, alongside two minority shareholder oppression petitions.

Terence Mowschenson QC
“He’s technically very good indeed, commercial and no-nonsense. His wisdom and pragmatism are spot-on, and he’s extremely user-friendly.”
Recent work: Acted for the second to fifth defendants in O’Keefe and another v Caner and others, where joint liquidators of Jersey companies in England alleged breach of directors’ duties and misfeasance relating to company account payments.

Wilberforce Chambers is a strong set of chambers whose company work is held in high regard. It offers expertise in a broad range of issues, including shareholder disputes and directors’ duties matters, and has strength in cases involving offshore jurisdictions. Recent work includes acting in Qunar Cayman Islands v Blackwell Partners, a shareholder dispute with proceedings in the Cayman Court of Appeal.

Client service: “The clerks are amazing and so helpful. They build a relationship with you, understand your needs and make you feel very important.” “The clerks are efficient and communicative.” Mark Rushton is the head practice manager.

James Bailey QC
Has a broad commercial chancery practice and often appears in company disputes, displaying considerable expertise in litigation involving hedge funds and private equity houses. He receives regular instructions to act in cross-border cases, including those concerning interests in the Cayman Islands, the USA and Hong Kong.
“James gives good advice and is excellent in court.”
Recent work: Appeared in The Swimming Teachers Association v Millward, a case concerning allegations of fraud and breach of directors’ duties.

Lexa Hilliard QC
A well-regarded silk who frequently handles claims relating to company and insolvency law. She regularly acts in cross-border shareholder disputes and offshore litigation, and has made appearances in the Isle of Man, the Channel Islands and the Caribbean. Hilliard exhibits further strength in fraud, professional negligence and banking matters.
“Lexa is a phenomenal counsel. Not only is she highly intelligent, she is also commercial.”
Recent work: Advised the guarantor of rent due on leases taken out by New Look after the New Look company voluntary arrangement.

Marcia Shekerdemian QC
Enjoys a busy company practice which is complemented well by her work in insolvency and restructuring cases. She regularly advises on domestic and international disputes. Most recently, she has been engaged in several high-profile shareholder litigation matters and issues concerning breach of director’s duty.
“What stands out is that Marcia gets straight to the heart of a matter, and she’s very easy to deal with, which is huge.”
Recent work: Acted for the claimant and majority shareholders in three sets of proceedings regarding Jabac Finance, including a breach of fiduciary duty and two minority shareholder oppression petitions.

Wilberforce Chambers offers a wealth of expertise in civil fraud claims. The set is regularly called upon to act for its clients in complex and high-value disputes involving allegations of breach of contract, deceit, bribery and conspiracy. Members are frequently instructed in both domestic and international disputes, and have experience of  acting in matters involving Europe and Asia, as well as several offshore jurisdictions. Recent cases handled by the set include JSC BM Bank v Kekhman, a claim brought by a Russian bank against a ‘banana oligarch’ for damages for deceit and unlawful means conspiracy, and National Trust Bank v Yurov and others, a USD1 billion claim for dishonest breach of duty brought against shareholder directors arising from the collapse of Russia’s 16th largest bank.

Client service: “The clerks are professional, organised and conscientious.” “The clerking team is very responsive.” Practice director Nicholas Luckman is “a very smooth operator.” Mark Rushton is head practice manager.

Alan Gourgey QC
Routinely called upon to deal with difficult, fast-moving fraud litigation and arbitrations involving such allegations as breach of contract, deceit, bribery and misappropriation. He is successful at obtaining freezing and search orders. His instructions come from across the globe.
“He is superb on paper, gives lightning-fast advice and is adept at working with foreign lawyers on complex matters.” “He’s user-friendly and willing to get his hands dirty.” “A terrific leader who marshals his team well.”
Recent work: Instructed in JSC BM Bank v Kekhman, a claim brought by a Russian bank against a ‘banana oligarch’ for damages for deceit and unlawful means conspiracy in respect of a loan made to a Russian group of companies.

Iain Pester
Has worked on a number of high-profile civil fraud cases and, being a fluent Russian speaker, is an expert in work emanating from that country. He acts for both claimants and defendants. He is noted for his skills in obtaining injunctive relief. His cases frequently involve allegations such as unlawful means conspiracy, bribery and manipulation of a trading account.
“He never misses anything in a document and uses it to his client’s advantage.” “He has excellent judgement and quickly gets on top of complex factual and legal issues.”
Recent work: Acted for the fifth and sixth defendants in Brent London Borough Council v Alan Davies and others, a case alleging an unlawful means conspiracy in connection with the running of a foundation school.

Ian Croxford QC
Tenacious and experienced silk regularly engaged in high-profile commercial disputes and professional negligence matters in which fraud is alleged.
“An excellent cross-examiner and an absolutely fearless advocate who can strike fear into the other side.” “He’s always incredibly well prepared.”

John Wardell QC
An outstanding leader with a wide-ranging practice who is accustomed to fighting complex fraud disputes. Many of his instructions originate abroad in such places as the Middle East and the Caribbean. He bolsters his civil fraud offering with complementary knowledge in commercial chancery and professional negligence law.
“A very strong, forensic advocate who gets on well with clients and speaks a language they understand.” “His advocacy is impeccably well prepared and his cross-examinations are stellar.”
Recent work: Instructed in AHAB v Saad Investments Company, the biggest fraud case ever heard in the Cayman Islands.

Jonathan Hilliard QC
Skilled silk who practises civil fraud as part of thriving commercial litigation practice which also includes pensions, offshore trust and regulatory work. His cases concern a variety of allegations including dishonesty and misappropriation.
“He is technically excellent.” “Very personable and level-headed in his advice.”

Max Mallin QC
Instructed in heavyweight fraud claims, especially those with international or banking elements. Allegations he has dealt with include conspiracy and fraudulent misappropriation of funds. He has an expert understanding of financial markets owing to his background as an investment banker.
“He has a huge amount of financial services knowledge and really gets into the numbers.” “He’s extremely approachable, user-friendly and always sees the bigger picture.”
Recent work: Acted for the claimant in Tillman v Lloyds Bank and others, a claim involving allegations of conspiracy arising out of the sale of shares in a private company at an undervalue.

Wilberforce Chambers is a high-quality offshore set with expertise across all the major offshore jurisdictions. Members act in high-value cases, including commercial disputes, professional liability claims, and fraud and trusts litigation. The set was recently instructed in AHAB v Saad, a Ponzi scheme case which is the largest trial ever heard by the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands. One impressed solicitor states: “It is a stellar chambers. It does both commercial litigation and contentious trusts matters to an excellent level.”

Client service: “The clerks are friendly, efficient, accommodating and receptive to a client’s needs in terms of fees.” “The clerks always do their best to find availability and get matters in front of counsel.” Nick Luckman is the practice director and is described as “hands-on, efficient and committed to offering great service.”

Andrew Child
Has a strong offshore practice and noted experience of handling civil fraud and trusts matters. He is also involved in asset transfer disputes and is active in Guernsey and the Cayman Islands. Child has further expertise in private client matters including estate management and family disputes.
“Extremely tough and very bright.”
Recent work: Continued to act in the Lo litigation, a family dispute regarding interests in a leading Hong Kong property company valued at USD3.55 billion.

Andrew Mold
Adroitly handles a diverse range of traditional and commercial chancery matters, demonstrating considerable strength in cases concerning trusts, professional liability and company law. His practice has led him to litigate or advise on matters in the Cayman Islands, Jersey, the Isle of Man, Bermuda and Singapore. He is experienced in intra-family disputes including high-value divorce proceedings.
“He works extremely hard and is all over the detail of the matter.” 
Recent work: Acted in Re Star Poland, a case involving claims made by a liquidator in Gibraltar against the directors of a company within a Gibraltar-based trust structure.

Brian Green QC
A market leader in chancery work who is regularly instructed by solicitors due to his ability to handle the most complex and high-profile litigation. He has a wide-ranging practice but proves particularly adept at cases concerning trusts and pensions. He has recently handled matters in Bermuda, Hong Kong and Jersey.
“He is my top trusts barrister. He is incredibly clever, has a good court manner and will see the problems in a situation that lesser mortals haven’t spotted.” “He has an extraordinary mind and is focused and extremely persuasive on his feet and in conference.”
Recent work: Continued to act for a branch of a family in the Hong Kong Court of Appeal, advising on disputes relating to the adminstration of the estate of a wealthy family member.

Clare Stanley QC
Noted for her commercial and company law practice, encompassing the likes of insolvency and fraud matters. She is well versed in the intricacies of acting in a number of offshore jurisdictions, including the Cayman Islands.
“She is very thorough and imaginative in the points she can come up with.” “An extremely user-friendly, very thorough and effective advocate.”
Recent work: Acted for Argyle Funds SPC in an attempt by BDO to restrain Argyle from suing BDO for audit negligence. Stanley successfully overturned the anti-suit injunction awarded to BDO at first instance.

Gilead Cooper QC
Has a great standing in offshore litigation, and noted ability in trusts, fraud, breach of fiduciary duty and professional negligence disputes. He also handles property disputes. Cooper has appeared in court proceedings in the BVI, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands and Hong Kong.
“A brilliant advocate and a thorough practitioner. He is very hands-on and responsive.” “He has a great strategic mind.”
Recent work: Continued to act for the defendants in CMC v Forster, a claim in Jersey regarding an allegation that the purpose of a trust was to siphon assets out of a company and that the trustees are liable for knowing assistance in a breach of trust.

Graeme Halkerston
Very well acquainted with the offshore market, having worked for several years as a partner in a leading firm in the Cayman Islands. The bulk of his work is BVI or Cayman Islands based. He maintains a diverse and dynamic commercial litigation practice and has strengths in banking and financial disputes, restructuring proceedings and cross-border fraud.
“He knows his stuff as a technical lawyer extremely well.” “He is very imaginative and a deep thinker with extremely good understanding of cross-border laws.”
Recent work: Appeared before the Cayman Islands Grand Court and as an expert witness in court in New York regarding USD100 million proceedings brought by a shareholder in a Bermuda reinsurance company.

Jack Watson
A talented up-and-coming junior with a strong practice in the offshore commercial space. He has particular experience of acting in the Cayman Islands in a range of disputes, including civil fraud, trusts, breach of fiduciary duty and property cases.
“Provides excellent written work and is really good with clients.” “He is very thorough and commercially-focused.”
Recent work: Appeared as sole counsel in Richards v Bodden, a case heard in the Court of Appeal of the Cayman Islands relating to a failure to complete an instalment contract for the purchase of a property.

John Wardell QC
Has a strong commercial and company law practice and a broad range of expertise, including in fraud and breach of fiduciary duty cases. He is admitted to the Bar in the BVI and has further experience in the Cayman Islands.
“John is very responsive, incredibly thorough and an extremely commanding advocate.” “He is very approachable and easy to talk to.”
Recent work: Acted in the high-profile AHAB v Saad litigation, a USD4 billion fraud case heard in the Cayman Islands.

Jonathan Hilliard QC
Has an excellent reputation for trusts and commercial litigation work. His practice has led him to act in the Isle of Man, Gibraltar, the Channel Islands and the BVI, among other jurisdictions.
“Jonathan is an extremely commercial and savvy trusts operator. He’s really passionate about his subject and knows it inside out.” “He’s a creative thinker and very clever.”

Michael Furness QC
An impressive silk who is especially knowledgeable in trusts and tax disputes, as well as contentious and non-contentious pension scheme work. His practice regularly leads him to appear in Bermudian trust cases, and he has experience of acting in Hong Kong’s Court of Final Appeal. He also provides counsel on professional negligence claims.
“Michael is focused, driven, highly intelligent and wears his learning lightly.” 
Recent work: Acted for the defendants in litigation regarding a Hong Kong family trust.

Nikki Singla QC
A highly regarded performer with experience of appearing for clients in the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, Dubai and the Channel Islands. Solicitors turn to him for advice on a wide range of commercial and business cases, and admire him for his specialist trusts expertise. His clients include high net worth families and trustees. He regularly handles shareholder disputes, negligence and joint venture ownership disputes, among others.
“He is very down to earth, commercial and gets to the points very quickly.” “He takes a very practical and adaptable approach and is very user-friendly and responsive.”
Recent work: Acted for the claimants in Pavilion v Radcliffes LeBrasseur, a case regarding allegations that Radcliffes breached its retainer in failing to retire the claimants from three family settlements.

Robert Ham QC
A star of the trusts world who receives effusive praise for his outstanding efforts in private client work, tax law and pensions. He acts in cases in Guernsey, the Caribbean and the Isle of Man, among other jurisdictions.
“He has a lovely manner and is incredibly easy and straightforward to work with.” “He is technically very good and good to bounce ideas off. He is also very pragmatic as he doesn’t see a case through the lens of a dry trusts law problem, but as a problem that the client needs to have solved.”

Terence Mowschenson QC
A popular and much-admired chancery silk who has undertaken a range of banking, finance, company and insolvency cases worldwide. His practice also encompasses joint ventures and partnerships. He has appeared in a wide range of jurisdictions, including Gibraltar, the Isle of Man, the Cayman Islands and the BVI. He has additional expertise in alternative dispute resolution proceedings.
“Technically very good, very commercial and no-nonsense. He is also extremely user-friendly.”
Recent work: Acted in a breach of fiduciary duty case which involved complex limitation period issues under Jersey law.

Wilberforce Chambers is a market-leading pensions set that offers expertise in the full gamut of pensions law work. Members have experience of acting at all levels of the judicial system, right up to the Supreme Court. Barristers at Wilberforce often act in cases on the cutting edge of industrial change. These include high-value pensions cases for clients including large-scale employers and the Pensions Regulator. Members recently acted in British Airways v Airways Pension Scheme Trustees, a case which has had wide-reaching implications regarding the powers wielded by pension trustees. The set has also acted in the Lloyds pensions case regarding the equalisation of the Guaranteed Minimum Pension. One source says: “The barristers are reactive and commercial in terms of their advice, which is very welcome in the pensions world.”

Client service: Mark Rushton is the head practice manager. “The clerks are very efficient, dependable and responsive.”

Andrew Mold
Highly regarded junior who often appears unled in significant pensions cases and specialises in professional negligence and regulatory aspects. He is experienced in appellate matters, including those before the Supreme Court.
“He has a strong analytical ability and quickly masters large amounts of information.” “He is very methodical and clear in his analysis and keeps in mind the commercial aspects of a case.”
Recent work: Continued to act for Lloyds Bank in a high-profile case regarding Guaranteed Minimum Pensions equalisation.

Benjamin Faulkner
Quality junior with a broad commercial chancery practice. He specialises in pensions and related professional negligence disputes. He has notable experience of high-stakes, document-heavy matters.
“He is absolutely excellent and has a great manner with clients. He is good on detail but also has very good client-handling and court skills.”
Recent work: Acted for the Box Clever trustee in the Upper Tribunal to resist ITV’s efforts to overturn a financial support direction.

Bobby Friedman
A respected pensions junior with considerable regulatory experience. He has acted in some of the most high-profile pensions disputes and trials. He has advised on high-value financial support direction actions, and related allegations of professional negligence. He is particularly known for his work defending clients against regulatory action.
“He is exceptional – very user-friendly, incredibly hard-working and accommodating.” “He has a strong analytical mind with a valuable ability to distil down and explain complex technical legal issues in plain English.”
Recent work: Acted in professional negligence proceedings in the High Court, part of the long-running issues surrounding the Wandel & Goltermann pension scheme.

Brian Green QC
One of the leading lights in the pensions industry, he is frequently seen on some of the most high-profile and significant pieces of litigation. He brings well-honed advocacy skills to his litigation and offers expertise in tax and trusts law. He is noted for his experience advising on charity and legacy public sector schemes.
“Brian effortlessly combines sharp analytical skills with a powerful sense of having seen it all before. He has a great manner in meetings with clients and has an imposing courtroom presence.” “Brian is masterful in his approach. He gives clarity and ensures that no stone is left unturned when seeking solutions.”
Recent work: Acted for Barnardo’s in the Supreme Court in a case regarding the construction of a UK occupational pensions scheme.

Edward Sawyer
A gifted and experienced pensions barrister who has appeared in several high-profile cases affecting the industry. He is often involved in long-running litigation with international elements concerning pension schemes and the Pensions Regulator. He also has prior experience of advising on professional negligence allegations.
“He always gives the impression of having considered your questions thoroughly, even under time pressure.” “Edward has a first class mind, with a considerable grasp of technical pension issues and the finer points of court procedure.”
Recent work: Continued to act in the Lloyds pension scheme case regarding unequal Guaranteed Minimum Pensions.

Emily Campbell
Maintains an impressive reputation for her handling of pension matters that contain financial, actuarial or tax aspects. She is also experienced in regulatory, professional negligence and rectification issues. She is additionally noted for handling matters with an international dimension.
“She has a sharp intellect and notable attention to detail while maintaining a strategic overview. She has an outstanding ability to grasp and argue technical financial and actuarial issues.”
Recent work: Acted in a claim by the operating partner in an oil joint venture against the other partners for pensions costs.

Emily McKechnie
A well-reputed chancery lawyer whose expertise in pensions is complemented by her burgeoning reputation in professional negligence. Her client roster includes representative beneficiaries, company sponsors and the Pension Protection Fund.
“She is very user-friendly and bright. She goes the extra mile, providing excellent client service.” “Thorough, authoritative and approachable.”
Recent work: Acted for a representative beneficiary in response to an employer’s claim for rectification of the trust deed and rules, which mistakenly introduced generous pension increase rates.

Fenner Moeran QC
An impressive advocate, particularly well versed in pension liberation, fraud and moral hazard disputes. He frequently represents trustees, insurance companies and employers, as well as the Pensions Regulator and the government.
“He is pragmatic, cuts to the chase and delivers opinions in the clearest terms.” “He goes the extra mile and provides commercial advice with a great down-to-earth manner.”

James McCreath
Acts for employers, trustees and scheme members in a variety of pension disputes. He has gained particular exposure to Section 75 debt claims and regulatory cases, as well as professional negligence allegations in the pensions arena.
“He’s an incredibly hard-working and technical lawyer. He has an approachable manner and a sharp intellect.” “One to watch in the future.”
Recent work: Appeared in the Court of Appeal for the BT Pension Scheme members regarding BT’s attempts to switch annual increases from RPI to CPI, which is less favourable for the members.

James Walmsley
An established pensions junior who is highly reputed for his diligent work ethic. He is well versed in regulatory investigations and rectification actions.
“He brings a very well-rounded commercial litigation knowledge to a pensions case.” “He has a phenomenal ability to absorb vast quantities of information and distil it all to provide clear, client-friendly, strategic advice. He is always thinking many steps ahead and has vast experience of regulatory issues.”
Recent work: Acted for the Pensions Regulator in proceedings against ITV regarding the pension deficit of Box Clever, a collapsed joint venture.

Jonathan Hilliard QC
Widely regarded as the go-to barrister for technical pensions issues, he represents parties in a broad array of cases. He has significant experience in liberation, moral hazard and professional negligence matters. He is sought after by the Pensions Regulator, as well as sponsors and trustees. He has appeared in courts at all levels of the British judicial system, as well as the CJEU.
“He is very intelligent, hard-working and a pleasure to deal with. He always provides sensible advice and is able to turn matters around speedily.” “Simply superb – he examines cases forensically and presents issues clearly.”
Recent work: Acted in the European Court in a case testing whether the Pension Protection Fund’s cap on compensation was compatible with the Insolvency Directive.

Michael Furness QC
Enjoys broad expertise in occupational pensions and other relevant areas, including tax law and trust litigation. He is well known for engaging in international litigation in offshore jurisdictions. Trustee boards and large household-name employers seek out his counsel.
“He is efficient and provides definitive advice on complex matters.” “Michael is decisive and authoritative. It is very reassuring to have him in your corner.”
Recent work: Acted in a case concerning whether ITV is liable for a deficit in the Box Clever Pension Scheme, a scheme for a former ITV business.

Michael Tennet QC
One of the leading silks for pensions, he is a master in regulatory matters and additionally specialises in actuarial issues. He is regularly seen in some of the pension industry’s most high-profile and contentious cases. His broad experience includes advising trustees, employers and representative beneficiaries.
“Mike is an extremely sharp and capable barrister, with a keen understanding of the key battlegrounds of a case. He is persuasive and to the point with his advocacy, always emphasising the crucial issues.” “He is hugely knowledgeable and a brilliant strategist.”
Recent work: Acted for British Airways in the Court of Appeal in a claim for a declaration that certain unilateral powers wielded by the British Airways Pension Trustees were invalid.

Paul Newman QC
Highly regarded in the industry, he acts on the full range of pension matters and is particularly recommended for high-profile, intricate cases. He acts for a diverse set of clients, including a number of FTSE 100 companies, trustees, the Pensions Regulator and the Pension Protection Fund. He is also an accomplished adviser on allegations of professional negligence.
“He provides crystal clear analysis. He’s emotionally intelligent and therefore very client-friendly.” “He provides very robust advice and a willingness to stand behind it.”
Recent work: Acted in Keymed v Hillman, a claim against former company directors for breach of duty and unlawful means conspiracy by a company in relation to contributions made to the company’s pension scheme.

Robert Ham QC
An experienced silk with a very strong reputation in the field of chancery and associated trusts work, both at home and overseas. He is frequently sought out to provide counsel on complex pension scheme matters. He also offers expertise in associated professional negligence issues.
“He is pragmatic, clear and commercial.”

Sebastian Allen
A well-regarded junior with experience in the full spectrum of pensions cases. He has advised and advocated on some of the most large-scale pensions matters including benefits indexation, equalisation and moral hazard proceedings.
“He is dynamic, incisive and inspires confidence in clients. He has an impressive grasp of hugely complex technical issues, including actuarial issues.” “He has got a real eye for detail and a very good ability to take on a huge amount of information and distil it down for clients.”
Recent work: Acted in large moral hazard power proceedings brought by the Pensions Regulator against the Silentnight business and and private equity firm HIG Capital.

Thomas Robinson
Enjoys a wealth of experience in regulatory, moral hazard and insolvency cases all the way up to the Supreme Court. Highly valued by the Pensions Regulator, especially for moral hazard cases. He also has experience in professional negligence cases.
“He’s a real team player, in command of the detail and surefooted in discussing strategic and substantive issues.”