Keystone Law
Rankings
Leading firm in High Net Worth 2025
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Contributions and articles
Provided by Keystone Law
- Articles, Press releases, highlights
Overview
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Firm Details:
Managing Partner: James Knight
Number of partners: 472
THE FIRM:
Keystone Law is a pioneering platform law firm, driven by the belief that the traditional model needed to evolve. By designing a firm that puts clients first, we created something fundamentally different and dynamic, giving top-tier lawyers the freedom, tools and support to deliver an exceptional service.
Our unique structure allows experienced lawyers to work more flexibly and efficiently by using cutting-edge proprietary technology so they can focus on what really matters: their clients. By removing unnecessary overheads and bureaucracy, our lawyers can build closer, more collaborative relationships.
As well as advising on key private client services such as employment, family, immigration tax, succession planning and wealth structuring, our UHNW Family Office team offers a cohesive, bespoke service through collaboration with Keystone’s corporate and commercial, construction, dispute resolution, planning and real estate teams.
Our dynamic team of partner-level practitioners can offer proactive solutions, guidance and contacts to manage the family’s household, business and outside interests relating to lifestyle needs such as dealing with the buying, selling and protection of jets, yachts and bloodstock. We also maintain strong networks in the international marketplace, meaning we are perfectly placed to collaborate with external advisers including accountants, wealth managers, personal assistants, Family or Private Office members, House Managers and household principals whether based in the UK or abroad.
Ranked Offices
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UK - Head office
Greater London
48 Chancery Lane , London, Greater London, UK, WC2A 1JF, London
Ranked Departments
Ranked Individuals
Articles, highlights and press releases
329 items provided by Keystone Law
High-value commercial debt recovery through the courts
Disputed high‑value commercial debts are an unavoidable reality for many businesses. Where sums of £100,000.00 or more are outstanding, commercial debt recovery is rarely just about non‑payment: cashflow, risk exposure, and leverage are all in play.
SRA investigations: what should you expect from the SDT process? Part 4
In Part 3 of this series, Professional Discipline solicitor Hannah Pilkington looked at what cases may be referred to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT). In this Keynote, Hannah outlines what to expect from the SDT process.
SRA investigations: what happens if you are referred to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal? Part 3
In this Keynote, we focus on referral to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT), including which cases are most likely to be referred and what that process looks like.
SRA investigations: what happens after the initial investigation? Part 2
In this Keynote, Professional Discipline solicitor Hannah Pilkington focuses on the SRA decision-making process, internal sanctions which can be imposed, and opportunities to influence the outcome and mitigate risk to you or your firm.
SRA investigations: what should you do if you are under investigation? Part 1
The Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA) has broad investigatory powers in relation to individual solicitors, law firms, and those managing or even working within firms.
Do golden shares really protect control?
A golden share is a special class of share that grants its holder – for example, a government department, state-owned entity, or founding shareholder – enhanced rights beyond those of ordinary investors.
A reminder of jury inquest requirements for notifiable diseases
Healthcare providers and professionals are often required to attend inquests as witnesses or interested persons (IPs). A recent inquest highlights the importance of carefully considering whether the cause of death may trigger a mandatory jury inquest under the Coroners and Justice Act 2009(CJA 2009)
Preparing for family proceedings: narrowing the dispute
In the second of a two-part series, Family partner Grainne Fahy and senior associate Yasmin Khan-Gunns explain how preparation differs depending on if the dispute is a children case or a financial remedy case.
Why preparation matters in family proceedings
When people think about family court, they often imagine the hearing itself: the judge, the courtroom, the submissions being made, and the moment when decisions are reached.
Do the UK’s Cryptoasset Regulations apply to you?
The UK’s new Cryptoasset Regulations are suddenly upon us. If you are already in the crypto business in the UK, you’ll need to start the process of applying for authorisation now in order to file the application with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) between 30 September 2026 & 28 February 2027.
How is carried interest treated on divorce?
Carried interest (“carry”) can be one of the most complex assets to deal with on divorce. For those working in private equity, venture capital, or fund management, it may represent a significant part of their overall wealth. For the other spouse, it may appear to be a valuable matrimonial resource.
Is your UK family office FCA-authorised?
Family offices come in many shapes and sizes. For the person responsible for a family’s investment activities, a question which commonly arises is whether those activities amount to regulated financial services requiring authorisation from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Digital Explainer: When is AI use acceptable for legal matters?
AI is meant to disrupt legal services, but it has also caused many concerns. In this Keynote, James Tumbridge and Robert Peake outline what the judges in the UK think is acceptable use of AI.
How can employers avoid legal risks when using AI in recruitment?
Recent reports have shown an increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other automated decision-making (ADM) in recruitment processes, and many employers will be inclined to digitalise their recruitment and selection processes.
The practical implications of age discrimination claims for LLPs and partnerships
Last year’s decision of the Employment Tribunal in Scott v Walker Morris LLP sheds light on steps that LLPs and partnerships ought to be taking in relation to their retirement provisions and how they deal with partners or LLP members who do not wish to retire.
When is a winding up petition appropriate?
A winding up petition is one of the most serious enforcement tools available to a creditor. It represents a decisive escalation in a debt recovery strategy and carries significant commercial consequences for the debtor company.
Faster, targeted SFO enquiries: what the board must be ready to evidence
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) recently launched its Business Plan 2026–-27.
Managing price increases in volatile markets
Supply chain disruption, geopolitical instability, and sustained cost inflation have made price pressure an unavoidable reality for many businesses.
Keystone Law advises on Polar Technology investment by Trive Capital
Keystone Law’s Corporate partner Will Nash has acted for the founders and senior management of Polar Technology.
Biodiversity Net Gain: recent changes and what they mean for landowners and rural development
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is now an established feature of the planning framework in England.
When is a statutory demand appropriate?
A statutory demand can be a powerful commercial tool for creditors seeking prompt payment of an undisputed debt from a limited company. In practice, it is most effective where informal chasing has stalled and the debtor has stopped engaging meaningfully.
BIOT Supreme Court quashes Removal Orders in landmark Chagossian victory
Keystone Law’s partner, barrister, and Attorney General for the Chagos Government, James Tumbridge, has successfully represented British Chagossian citizens before the Supreme Court of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), with Philip Ruke KC.
Keystone Law advises Gedeon Richter on its acquisition of Celmatix Inc’s research portfolio
Keystone Law has advised Gedeon Richter, a European multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, on its acquisition of the women’s health early-stage research portfolio of Celmatix Inc.
Keystone Law advises System1 founder on sale of 23% shareholding to Brave Bison
Keystone Law has advised John Kearon, founder and largest shareholder of System1 Group plc (AIM), on the sale of his 23% shareholding in the business to Brave Bison Group PLC through a share‑for‑share exchange.
Keystone Law advises on landmark ruling on HMRC abuse of process and fair pleading
Keystone Law’s Tax partner Martin O’Neill has represented Mr Ashley Trees before the Upper Tribunal (Tax and Chancery Chamber) in an important judgment which has set aside a Director’s Liability Notice (“DLN”) issued by HMRC to Mr Trees.
Business rates revaluation: what it means for high street businesses and landlords
A major business rates revaluation took effect on 1 April 2026, increasing costs for many high street premises.
Digital Explainer – What is the future for experts in the age of AI?
AI is all around and it is giving many the confidence to comment on things they only know about because of an AI summary. What does this mean for traditional knowledge-based expertise?
Share-for-share exchanges: what is the new anti-avoidance rule?
Share-for-share exchanges are widely used in corporate transactions, including third-party acquisitions where consideration includes shares in the buyer and internal group restructurings.
Are convertible loan notes a hidden trap in startup funding?
Convertible notes are increasingly popular in early-stage startup funding. They are essentially short-term loans that automatically convert into equity at a later financing round, often at a discount or subject to a valuation cap.
What now for creatives, rightsholders, and AI businesses in the UK?
The UK government has published a coordinated set of responses addressing how to balance copyright protection with AI innovation.
High-value commercial debt recovery through the courts
Disputed high‑value commercial debts are an unavoidable reality for many businesses. Where sums of £100,000.00 or more are outstanding, commercial debt recovery is rarely just about non‑payment: cashflow, risk exposure, and leverage are all in play.
SRA investigations: what should you expect from the SDT process? Part 4
In Part 3 of this series, Professional Discipline solicitor Hannah Pilkington looked at what cases may be referred to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT). In this Keynote, Hannah outlines what to expect from the SDT process.
SRA investigations: what happens if you are referred to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal? Part 3
In this Keynote, we focus on referral to the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal (SDT), including which cases are most likely to be referred and what that process looks like.
SRA investigations: what happens after the initial investigation? Part 2
In this Keynote, Professional Discipline solicitor Hannah Pilkington focuses on the SRA decision-making process, internal sanctions which can be imposed, and opportunities to influence the outcome and mitigate risk to you or your firm.
SRA investigations: what should you do if you are under investigation? Part 1
The Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA) has broad investigatory powers in relation to individual solicitors, law firms, and those managing or even working within firms.
Do golden shares really protect control?
A golden share is a special class of share that grants its holder – for example, a government department, state-owned entity, or founding shareholder – enhanced rights beyond those of ordinary investors.
A reminder of jury inquest requirements for notifiable diseases
Healthcare providers and professionals are often required to attend inquests as witnesses or interested persons (IPs). A recent inquest highlights the importance of carefully considering whether the cause of death may trigger a mandatory jury inquest under the Coroners and Justice Act 2009(CJA 2009)
Preparing for family proceedings: narrowing the dispute
In the second of a two-part series, Family partner Grainne Fahy and senior associate Yasmin Khan-Gunns explain how preparation differs depending on if the dispute is a children case or a financial remedy case.
Why preparation matters in family proceedings
When people think about family court, they often imagine the hearing itself: the judge, the courtroom, the submissions being made, and the moment when decisions are reached.
Do the UK’s Cryptoasset Regulations apply to you?
The UK’s new Cryptoasset Regulations are suddenly upon us. If you are already in the crypto business in the UK, you’ll need to start the process of applying for authorisation now in order to file the application with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) between 30 September 2026 & 28 February 2027.
How is carried interest treated on divorce?
Carried interest (“carry”) can be one of the most complex assets to deal with on divorce. For those working in private equity, venture capital, or fund management, it may represent a significant part of their overall wealth. For the other spouse, it may appear to be a valuable matrimonial resource.
Is your UK family office FCA-authorised?
Family offices come in many shapes and sizes. For the person responsible for a family’s investment activities, a question which commonly arises is whether those activities amount to regulated financial services requiring authorisation from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Digital Explainer: When is AI use acceptable for legal matters?
AI is meant to disrupt legal services, but it has also caused many concerns. In this Keynote, James Tumbridge and Robert Peake outline what the judges in the UK think is acceptable use of AI.
How can employers avoid legal risks when using AI in recruitment?
Recent reports have shown an increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other automated decision-making (ADM) in recruitment processes, and many employers will be inclined to digitalise their recruitment and selection processes.
The practical implications of age discrimination claims for LLPs and partnerships
Last year’s decision of the Employment Tribunal in Scott v Walker Morris LLP sheds light on steps that LLPs and partnerships ought to be taking in relation to their retirement provisions and how they deal with partners or LLP members who do not wish to retire.
When is a winding up petition appropriate?
A winding up petition is one of the most serious enforcement tools available to a creditor. It represents a decisive escalation in a debt recovery strategy and carries significant commercial consequences for the debtor company.
Faster, targeted SFO enquiries: what the board must be ready to evidence
The Serious Fraud Office (SFO) recently launched its Business Plan 2026–-27.
Managing price increases in volatile markets
Supply chain disruption, geopolitical instability, and sustained cost inflation have made price pressure an unavoidable reality for many businesses.
Keystone Law advises on Polar Technology investment by Trive Capital
Keystone Law’s Corporate partner Will Nash has acted for the founders and senior management of Polar Technology.
Biodiversity Net Gain: recent changes and what they mean for landowners and rural development
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is now an established feature of the planning framework in England.
When is a statutory demand appropriate?
A statutory demand can be a powerful commercial tool for creditors seeking prompt payment of an undisputed debt from a limited company. In practice, it is most effective where informal chasing has stalled and the debtor has stopped engaging meaningfully.
BIOT Supreme Court quashes Removal Orders in landmark Chagossian victory
Keystone Law’s partner, barrister, and Attorney General for the Chagos Government, James Tumbridge, has successfully represented British Chagossian citizens before the Supreme Court of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), with Philip Ruke KC.
Keystone Law advises Gedeon Richter on its acquisition of Celmatix Inc’s research portfolio
Keystone Law has advised Gedeon Richter, a European multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, on its acquisition of the women’s health early-stage research portfolio of Celmatix Inc.
Keystone Law advises System1 founder on sale of 23% shareholding to Brave Bison
Keystone Law has advised John Kearon, founder and largest shareholder of System1 Group plc (AIM), on the sale of his 23% shareholding in the business to Brave Bison Group PLC through a share‑for‑share exchange.
Keystone Law advises on landmark ruling on HMRC abuse of process and fair pleading
Keystone Law’s Tax partner Martin O’Neill has represented Mr Ashley Trees before the Upper Tribunal (Tax and Chancery Chamber) in an important judgment which has set aside a Director’s Liability Notice (“DLN”) issued by HMRC to Mr Trees.
Business rates revaluation: what it means for high street businesses and landlords
A major business rates revaluation took effect on 1 April 2026, increasing costs for many high street premises.
Digital Explainer – What is the future for experts in the age of AI?
AI is all around and it is giving many the confidence to comment on things they only know about because of an AI summary. What does this mean for traditional knowledge-based expertise?
Share-for-share exchanges: what is the new anti-avoidance rule?
Share-for-share exchanges are widely used in corporate transactions, including third-party acquisitions where consideration includes shares in the buyer and internal group restructurings.
Are convertible loan notes a hidden trap in startup funding?
Convertible notes are increasingly popular in early-stage startup funding. They are essentially short-term loans that automatically convert into equity at a later financing round, often at a discount or subject to a valuation cap.
What now for creatives, rightsholders, and AI businesses in the UK?
The UK government has published a coordinated set of responses addressing how to balance copyright protection with AI innovation.