SILK PROFILE

Michael Ashcroft KC

UK Bar 2026

Twenty Essex

Ranked in 3 practice areas

Shipping & Commodities

London (Bar)

21 years ranked

Energy & Natural Resources

London (Bar)

5 years ranked

International Arbitration: General Commercial & Insurance

London (Bar)

9 years ranked

About

Provided by Twenty Essex

UK Bar

Practice Areas

Michael is an experienced silk with a broad commercial practice, specialising in high-value and complex (often highly technical) commercial contractual disputes. He has experience in shipping, commodities, insurance, commercial litigation, construction and international arbitration.

He appears regularly in the High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. Michael has a wide range of experience of cases before, and on appeal from arbitration tribunals in various jurisdictions (including Singapore, mainland China, Dubai, France, Hong Kong, Sweden, Malaysia, Paris and New York) and he has been admitted to the Bar of St Kitts and Nevis (on an ad hoc basis).

Michael accepts appointments as an arbitrator both in London and abroad.

Career

Read a full summary of Michael's career on the Twenty Essex website

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

UK Bar

Shipping & Commodities - London (Bar)

Band 1

Individual Editorial

Michael Ashcroft KC is a distinguished barrister with an enviable reputation for his work across shipping and commodities, especially in disputes relating to superyachts and the petroleum industry. He has represented clients in the Supreme Court and is an expert in construction disputes. He is particularly highlighted for his ability in complex arbitrations.

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Energy & Natural Resources - London (Bar)

Band 3

Individual Editorial

Michael Ashcroft KC is a knowledgeable silk highlighted for his courtroom advocacy. He is skilled in matters involving complex issues, such as contractual disputes and project delays. He has particular strength in oil and gas disputes.

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International Arbitration: General Commercial & Insurance - London (Bar)

Band 3

Individual Editorial

Michael Ashcroft KC is a hugely intelligent practitioner with impressive credentials across a range of markets, including energy and shipping. His work often involves very high-stakes and extremely technical legal points. He has additional expertise challenging arbitration awards.

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Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Michael is an absolute pleasure to deal with and a first-class senior advocate.
Shipping & CommoditiesUK Bar
Michael is a class act.
Shipping & CommoditiesUK Bar
Michael’s attention to detail and methodical control of disputes is very effective. He has a fine track record at court and is easy to work with.
Energy & Natural ResourcesUK Bar
He is very clear with his opinions and inspired confidence becasue he knows what he is doing.
International Arbitration: General Commercial & InsuranceUK Bar
Michael was technically strong, responsive and a pleasure to work with.
International Arbitration: General Commercial & InsuranceUK Bar