Commercial Dispute Resolution

Hugh Sims KC is a formidable barrister who handles all manner of contentious commercial issues, from contractual disputes to high-profile fraud claims. He is instructed across a broad range of sectors, including technology, sports and financial services. He is also noted for his expertise in professional negligence, company and insolvency matters.

"Hugh is very proactive and on top of the facts, strategy and legal issues involved."

"Hugh is outstanding. He's always good at finding an angle and coming up with solutions, and his client-handling skills are excellent."

"Hugh is exceptional in every way and is particularly calm and effective in court, even in the most challenging of circumstances."

"Hugh isn't afraid to challenge clients when needed and brings a really good perspective as a judge, as well as counsel. He is very supportive to his instructing solicitors and incredibly accessible."

"He is involved in the really high-profile cases."

James Wibberley's practice includes disputes arising from professional negligence and breach of contract. He specialises in the financial services sector. He is also adept at handling contractual disputes concerning fraud and misrepresentation, and offers expertise in joint venture disputes.

"James is very easy to deal with. He provides great attention to detail, extensive knowledge and sound tactical advice."

"He is experienced, confident and reliable."

"James wears his intelligence easily. He is a pleasure to deal with and particularly calm and effective in court."

"James is the pick of the bunch; very bright, thorough and a great team player."

"James becomes really involved and immerses himself in the legal team. He is available constantly and incredibly committed to the cases he is working on, and also builds great rapport with clients."

Jay Jagasia advises on a broad range of commercial disputes, including those arising from breach of duty, mis-selling of financial products and supply chain issues. He is also regularly instructed to act in business venture disputes. He is frequently called upon to act both for and against large financial institutions.

"As an advocate, Jay is very confident and knows the authorities like the back of his hand. He doesn't seem to get flustered easily either."

"Jay is very committed to the cause and combative when he needs to be."

"His previous experience in private practice is a massive bonus in helping Jay deliver excellent client service and usability."

"Jay is well rounded, reliable and hard-working, with great attention to detail."

John Virgo focuses on financial product mis-selling, including pensions, investments and interest rate swaps, as well as related regulatory work. He is also frequently instructed in commercial contract disputes and is sought after for his knowledge of litigation in the banking sector.

"John always has the ear of the court; he's a realistic adviser and advocate. He is hugely experienced and capable in many different areas."

"Given his seniority, it is always surprising that he is prepared to take on a case and jump onto it with the same level as someone more junior."

Richard Ascroft's practice encompasses breaches of agreement, restrictive covenants and insolvency law. He is particularly adept at handling claims that involve breaches of warranty, interference with goods and professional negligence.

"Richard is a capable practitioner and he is always very pleasant to deal with."

"He has lots of experience in company matters."

"Richard is always very approachable, very user-friendly and good with clients; he always brings added value."

John Churchill is sought after for his expertise in areas including insolvency, property litigation and contractual disputes.

"John is an excellent junior; remarkably bright and a pleasure to work with."

"Churchill overdelivers, you ask a question and he goes above and beyond."

Stefan Ramel is an active barrister whose practice covers directors' disputes, professional negligence claims and insolvency. He is also experienced in handling shareholder disputes, breaches of contract and sale of goods claims. He is frequently instructed in disputes involving applications for urgent injunctions. He regularly acts on behalf of major banks and other lending institutions.

"Stefan prepares very thoroughly and is a very calm, effective and wise advocate, even in challenging circumstances."

"Stefan is thorough, well prepared and diligent, and has a good bedside manner with clients."

"Stefan is very good in court. He is good in cross-examination and very good with judgments, and he has recently been appointed as a part-time judge, so he knows the demeanour and skill set required."