About

Provided by St John's Chambers

Our Company team has extensive experience acting for companies, directors and shareholders in a broad range of disputes. Several members are ranked in the top tiers of Chambers UK and The Legal 500, reflecting the team’s depth of expertise and reputation.

We are regularly instructed in shareholder disputes, including unfair prejudice petitions under section 994 Companies Act 2006, as well as disputes concerning Share Purchase Agreements, warranty claims and restrictive covenants. Our barristers frequently advise and act in cases involving directors’ duties, including breaches of statutory and fiduciary obligations, and in derivative actions.

The team has represented companies in high-value and complex claims involving bribery, secret commissions, and the misuse of confidential information and trade secrets. We also advise on insolvency issues and company administration matters such as general meetings and governance disputes.

Our barristers are recognised for pragmatic, commercially-focused advice that is clear, timely and aligned with clients’ business goals. We act for businesses of all sizes, from SMEs to FTSE-100 companies, across sectors and industries, and are instructed by leading law firms across the South West, South Wales and nationwide. With experience at every level of the courts, we are well equipped to handle urgent applications for freezing orders, search orders and injunctions.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Company - Western (Bar)

2
Band 2

What the Team is Known For

The barristers at St John's Chambers offer significant expertise in a variety of company law matters, including unfair prejudice petitions and shareholder disputes. The set also has considerable experience in breach of warranty claims, breaches of fiduciary duty cases and trade secrets disputes. Its members advise a range of domestic and international clients. A recent work highlight was Re HLHP Oriental Food Ltd [2024] EWHC 497 (Ch), an unfair prejudice petition concerning a series of companies set up to operate Chinese restaurants in the UK. A source regards St John's Chambers as "a great set with approachable, dependable and knowledgeable lawyers".

Rob Bocock is the practice manager.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

1
Charlie Newington-Bridges
1
Band 1

Charlie Newington-Bridges is known for his work in company and chancery litigation, with a particular skill for understanding complex financial details and Section 994 petitions. He has experience appearing before both the High Court and the Court of Appeal.

Charlie Newington-Bridges is highly commercial and down to earth. He is excellent with clients and a sharp and intelligent advocate.

2
James Pearce-Smith
2
Band 2

James Pearce-Smith has a broad practice spanning commercial litigation, company disputes and insolvency cases. He draws on his experience as a commercial litigation solicitor as well as handling traditional chancery work. He is noted for his expertise in professional negligence cases. He is particularly adept at handling shareholder disputes and claims involving share purchase agreements.

James is very thorough, very prepared and very focused. He puts the clients at their ease. He has very nice client care skills.

James Pearce-Smith is an excellent barrister who is thorough and committed.

Ranked Barristers at
St John's Chambers

Provided by Chambers
Filter by
Band

Juniors

Western (Bar)

Company

1
Charlie Newington-Bridges
1
Band 1
2
James Pearce-Smith
2
Band 2

Members

Provided by St John's Chambers