Restructuring/Insolvency

3 Verulam Buildings is noted as having "very strong expertise across the set in banking and insolvency litigation." The set is well regarded for its handling of contentious commercial insolvencies, and its tenants are regularly called upon to act for insolvency practitioners in high-value, cross-border recovery actions. 3VB's representation of Lehman Brothers Holdings in ongoing disputes about the distribution of surpluses within the Lehman estate is one such example. Members were also instructed by Dubai Islamic Bank and Noor Bank to defend their interests in litigation arising out of the collapse of NMC Healthcare.

Stephen Penson and Stuart Pullum, joint senior practice managers, "provide a very smooth pleasant and professional experience. When there is a problem, they will find a solution."

"The clerking team are approachable and always willing to help."

Adrian Beltrami KC
Adrian Beltrami KC acts for insolvency clients as part of his broader commercial practice, which also encompasses banking, financial services and fraud. He is known for his expertise in handling domestic work, while he is equally adept at handling multi-jurisdictional concerns. "Adrian is a real superstar. He has great judgement and great court presence." "He is extremely bright and also an excellent advocate."

Ewan McQuater KC
Ewan McQuater KC is a renowned barrister who is regularly instructed in big-ticket insolvency cases. His broader areas of associated expertise include commercial dispute resolution and civil fraud, among others. He is adept at handling matters with an offshore slant, regularly appearing in courts in the Cayman Islands, the British Virgin Islands and the Isle of Man. "Ewan is a go-to silk for heavyweight cases, hugely experienced in complex trial cases, very strategic and strong in court - including in cross-examination." "Once he is in full flow, he is the most amazing advocate to sit and listen to."

Philip Hinks
Philip Hinks is an esteemed barrister with a broad-ranging practice. He regularly handles high-value, major insolvency disputes, demonstrating particular skill in matters containing a fraud element. His insolvency practice is complemented by his broader expertise in financial services matters. "He is pragmatic, gets to the heart of an issue and is easy to work with."

Angharad Start
Angharad Start is a junior who is recognised for her high-quality contribution to a number of high-profile insolvency cases. She demonstrates expertise across the board, regularly acting in matters such as shareholder disputes, wrongful trading litigation and misfeasance claims. She is called on by a diverse client base that includes large corporates, banks and government bodies. "She is very thorough, commercial and thinks outside the box."

Jamie Riley KC
Jamie Riley KC is especially well regarded in the area of corporate insolvency. He is equally adept at handling domestic and offshore cases, and has featured in a number of significant matters. He is regularly instructed by international investment funds and leading banks, predominantly appearing in the High Court. "He can convey complex messages in a clear, concise and compelling way and he is a great trial lawyer."

Matthew Hardwick KC
Matthew Hardwick KC is roundly praised by market commentators for his strength in court and his client service. He habitually appears in both contentious cases and non-contentious insolvency matters for a diverse range of clients. He is a go-to for offshore insolvencies and has noted experience handling disputes in the British Virgin Islands. "Matthew is an incredibly strong advocate." "He is super responsive, extremely hard-working, very flexible and always finds time for us." "He is off the chart in terms of the detail he goes into; he is very thorough."

William Day
William Day is an exceptionally well-regarded up-and-coming junior adept at advising on a range of insolvency proceedings. He has been instructed on liquidations, administrations and bankruptcies which often involve unusual and novel issues. Recent instructions have also seen Day appear at all levels up to the Supreme Court. "Clients really like him and he is very sought after to provide an expert opinion." "He is just a natural." "He is extremely bright and very competent. He is a go-to junior."