Dispute Resolution: Commercial - UK
Wilberforce Chambers has at its disposal a strong bench of commercial barristers with particularly impressive capability at silk level. Its members are capable of handling a wide spectrum of commercial matters, including, among others, cases arising out of company law, insolvency and civil fraud. The set's barristers are well known for their ability to represent clients in international disputes, and regularly appear in a range of jurisdictions such as Hong Kong, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands. Recently, members have acted in Tulip LLP v Bitcoin Association, a very high profile case from the crypto sector, as well as Suppipat & Others v Narongdej & Others, a claim alleging fraud and asset-stripping. Other matters handled include the Greensill litigation, a case which followed the collapse of Greensill Capital. One interviewee commented "Wilberforce Chambers is a set crammed with very skilled and sophisticated barristers, who deal with complex multi-jurisdictional litigation matters."
Client service
"Nick Luckman, practice director, and Andrew Barnes, senior practice manager, are always available. They are very practical individuals, who want the best outcome for the client."
"Stewart Cameron, senior practice manager, was a stand out. He was always available and not afraid of discussing pricing."
"The clerks have very good response times and are not afraid to deal with complex issues such as cost estimates. They are very professional in negotiation and are excellent at liaising with the court."
"The clerks instil confidence that they will be able to get you want you need in terms of counsel support."
"The clerks bend over backwards to accommodate requests."
Notable Practitioners
Alan Gourgey KC "Alan Gourgey has an eye for detail like no other and is extremely good at dealing with very difficult clients." "Alan is excellent at strategic thinking and has very clear judgement. His advocacy style is also excellent."
John Wardell KC "John Wardell is a very good listener. He is always keen to listen to the entire team and then give his advice following a hearing from everyone." "John is very passionate and very motivated." "John is a good strategist." "He is forthright in his advice and not afraid to give very robust opinions as to the chances of success." "Extremely effective in court."
Tim Penny KC "Tim Penny is a charming advocate who captivates even when dealing with difficult points. He has the ear and trust of the court." "Tim displays extraordinary attention to detail."
Jack Watson "Jack is a brilliant barrister with a huge brain who takes a very commercial approach to litigation. He is great with clients and fantastic on his feet." "Jack was very precise and his cross-examination skills were brilliant."
Marcia Shekerdemian KC "Marcia is a great technician." "She impresses with her skills, sharp mind, steadiness and composure." "Marcia is a delight to watch on her feet."
Sri Carmichael "Sri Carmichael is very thorough in her approach." "She evidently cares about the work she is doing and is always focused on getting the best outcome." "Sri is very approachable, user-friendly and incredibly astute."
Bobby Friedman "Bobby Friedman is highly intelligent and an effective communicator. He is very comprehensive in his approach, ." "A very efficient and personable barrister."
Ian Croxford KC "Exceptional. His advocacy and cross examination were masterful." "Ian's attention to detail and focus on the key issues are superb. He is ferociously hard working and is the best trial advocate." "He has great courtroom presence and is a very careful strategist."
James Bailey KC "James is outstanding is his advocacy and in particular the way he deals with issues when on his feet."
James Walmsley "James had a mastery of the thousands of documents in the case and explained complicated legal concepts in a very straightforward fashion to the clients. His understanding of the law is a sight to behold." "James' intellect is astonishing and his ability to retain huge volumes of information is phenomenal." "James is very easy to work with and he provides excellent guidance."
Terence Mowschenson KC "An effective and direct advocate, who doesn't pull punches."
Tim Matthewson "Tim Matthewson is very switched on, diligent and user-friendly." "Tim is very measured. In those situations where there is a lot of hyperbole and unnecessarily long letters are being thrown around, he's good at reining in emotions."