RPC > London, England > Firm Profile
RPC Offices

TOWER BRIDGE HOUSE
ST KATHARINE'S WAY
LONDON
E1W 1AA
England
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RPC > The Legal 500 Rankings
Corporate and commercial > Commercial contracts Tier 1
RPC offers pragmatic advice rooted in strong sector experience, with notable expertise in matters pertaining to tech and media, sport, and insurance. The firm has been engaged with substantial commercial projects over the past twelve months, including reviewing and updating company policies, counselling on master services agreements, and acting on sector-first partnerships, such as their advisory role for Saracens Rugby Club partnership with Socios that looks to bring tailored crypto-assets to fans. Furthermore, the team continues to establish itself as a leading player in the hospitality retail industry, adding the landmark brewing and distribution deal between Shepherd Neame and Boon Rawd to its matter portfolio. Department head Tom PurtonPractice head(s):
Tom Purton
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team are very commercial and pragmatic, they understand real world challenges rather than theoretical legal issues.’
‘Olly Bray is always very enthusiastic and up to speed with the latest developments challenging the commercial business, and finds pragmatic solutions for every issue.’
‘Tom Purton is exceptional, and we trust his advice.’
‘Subject-matter experts.’
Key clients
Shepherd Neame
Meta
Office Space in Town Limited
McArthurGlen UK Limited
Zensar Technologies UK Ltd
Saracens
Gist
BOC Limited
ClubHouse Group
Kisters
We Buy Any Car Limited
HP Enterprise Services
Comcast
Computacenter
LINK
SITA
eClerx
Dialog Semiconductor
Foolproof
Serco
Avert IT
Habanero Systems
News UK
The Financial Times
Associated Newspapers
Mirror Group Newspapers
Bloomberg News
The Spectator
Which?
Dow Jones
Fever Tree
Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola Enterprise Partners
Sports Direct
JUUL
New Look
Linde plc
Wincanton
MMD
Four Marketing
QBE
Vax
Innocent drinks
NCP
Waterstones
Ardonagh
EY
The Corporation of Lloyd’s
The Lloyd’s Market Association
Chaucer Syndicates
Canopius Managing Agents
AIG Europe
Markel International Insurance
Direct Line Group
Arch Insurance
WaveOptics
Travel Ledger
Work highlights
- Advised Shepherd Neame on the re-negotiation of its warehousing and distribution agreement with GXO under which all its beer products are transported to its pub and hotel estate, the free trade and off trade.
- Advised LINK on a highly complex and much publicised project on its role as “Co-Ordinating Body.”
- Advising Meta on a vast range of commercial agreements (often business critical and high value) as well as ground-breaking projects in crypto, AI and the Metaverse.
Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 1
Fielding a ‘group with real sector expertise‘, RPC runs the gamut of contentious, advisory, and cross-border retail matters. The team is regularly instructed by clients from a broad range of industries, with an emphasis on the fashion and beauty, as well as the food and beverage sectors. Karen Hendy and Jeremy Drew jointly head up the practice; the former advises listed companies and their subsidiaries, with notable expertise in distressed purchases and acquisitions, while the latter is the key contact for multi-jurisdictional arbitrations, as well as for contentious and non-contentious intellectual property mandates. ‘Standout’ Ciara Cullen oversees the firm’s food and drink sub-group, and is an experienced intellectual property and technology specialist with a particular focus on sustainability, and consumer regulations and compliance. Simon Edwards is recommended for his commercial contract negotiation expertise. 2023 saw IP specialist Sarah Mountain and banking and finance specialist Edward Colville promoted to the partnership.Practice head(s):
Jeremy Drew; Karen Hendy
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is responsive and knowledgeable in their field. Thorough.’
‘Simon Edwards is always responsive and the work product is always on point.’
‘This is a group with real sector expertise; they get it. As well as high-end legal advice, I am consistently impressed by the insights I get from their experience elsewhere.’
‘Ciara Cullen is a standout lawyer – smart, thoughtful and an absolute pleasure to work with.’
‘A very personable, interested and interesting firm that has a keen awareness of the commercial and business context in which legal questions, problems and opportunities play out. They broker the necessary skills within the team while focusing via the industry leads on your broader business questions.’
‘Very responsive, easy to work with, and experts in their field.’
‘Ciara Cullen – very experienced and proactive in finding business solutions.’
Key clients
Sports Direct / Frasers Group / Flannels / Studio Retail
Stella McCartney
Beyond Bamboo
Daks Simpson
Charlotte Tilbury
Shepherd Neame
Tartine et Chocolat (part of Kidiliz Group)
Corbin & King
Fever-Tree PLC
The Halo Group
AB InBev
Irish Distillers / Pernod Ricard UK / Absolut Vodka / Chivas Brothers
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
McArthurGlen
Saracens
PizzaExpress
Work highlights
- Advised Frasers Group on multiple transactions, including its £48m acquisition from JD Sports Fashion of 15 companies comprising various premium fashion brands.
- Instructed to represent Budweiser Brewing Group in Commercial Court litigation which has commenced between Budweiser and Wetherspoons, relating to bar share obligations under the agreement and the requirements of Wetherspoons to ensure that a specific ratio of Budweiser brands are present across the estate of over 800 outlets.
- Advising Beyond Bamboo on its B2B and B2C commercial contracts, especially with various hotel chains, as well as assisting with its corporate restructuring, including several rounds of new capital raises.
Risk advisory > Corporate governance Tier 1
The cross-practice governance group at RPC is led by Patrick Brodie, Jeremy Drew and Matthew Griffith and advises on a range of issues, from board-level matters to remuneration policies, regulatory issues, data protection and diversity. It has a strong investigations practice which advises on high-profile contentious issues and related governance matters and is particularly strong in financial crime. Brodie is recommended for reputation management and regulatory governance, Drew deals with governance, culture and conduct issues, and Griffith is a name for regulatory and post-Brexit issues with a focus on the insurance and financial services sectors. Sam Tate is a contact for white-collar crime and anti-bribery and anti-money laundering initiatives, while Karen Hendy advises on corporate governance, directors’ duties and AGM matters.Practice head(s):
Patrick Brodie; Jeremy Drew; Matthew Griffith
Other key lawyers:
William Hogarth; Karen Hendy
Testimonials
‘This firm has advanced hugely over the last few years to become one of the go to firms in the country for corporate governance, corporate and economic crime and defamation. A mid-sized but accessible firm that never fails to produce the goods.’
‘The team had previous experience in implementing an anti-corruption compliance programs at a multinational. This experience was invaluable in resolving the practicalities of rolling out our third party risk management process framework. They also understood the technology aspect through their previous experience in working for a due diligence service provider. They were able to utilize their previous experience to design a best in class TPRM process.’
‘Sam Tate has literally written the book on anti-corruption (UK Bribery Act) because of his vast experience in the field of anti-corruption compliance. I could not have found a better partner to help steer this project. His hands on approach and also his pragmatic resolution of issues helped us to successfully launch our TPRM process in a timely manner.’
‘Ability to genuinely tailor their approach and provide advice to be bespoke to a company’s needs.’
Key clients
Fraser Group (previously Sports Direct)
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Dialog Semiconductor Plc
Ceres Power Holdings Plc
Egon Zehnder
ArcelorMittal
NCP
The Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia
Studio Retail Limited
Beat Capital Partners Limited
Flannels Limited
England Lacrosse
Work highlights
- Acting for the diplomat of a Gulf state in a Supreme Court case (Basfar -v- Wong, UKSC) that related to human trafficking and diplomatic immunity.
- Representing the Federal Republic of Nigeria (FRN) in its claim against JP Morgan (JPM), arising out of the bank’s role in transferring $875m to a company, Malabu Oil & Gas Limited.
- Acting for Newcastle United Football Club (NUFC) in respect of one of HMRC’s most high-profile criminal investigations into suspected non-payment of Income Tax, NI Contributions and VAT in respect of agents’ fees paid by NUFC in relation to the transfer of players.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Digital content & social Tier 1
RPC‘s comprehensive client roster – including major social media platforms and digital content publishers – benefits from the firm’s broader expertise in media, data protection, commercial, advertising, IP and litigation. Practice head Oliver BrayPractice head(s):
Oliver Bray
Other key lawyers:
Rupert Cowper-Coles; David Cran; Jon Bartley; Alex Vakil; Joe Byrne
Testimonials
‘RPC’s pragmatism and experience, particularly regarding their eagerness to get stuck into cutting-edge tech spaces, is truly unique.’
‘Oliver Bray is quite simply the lawyer for complex data-heavy commercial terms. Joe Byrne is a rising star.’
Key clients
Meta
YouTube
TikTok
OliveX
Darabase
Square Mile Sports
Badoo
Blogger
Stereo
Sega
The Esports Awards
Square Enix
Game Insight
Betconstruct
Feedconstruct
Ubisoft
Associated Newspapers Limited
Times Newspapers Limited
News Group Newspapers Limited
Reach plc
Bloomberg LP
BBC
Channel 4
Work highlights
- Representing Google in a high-profile litigation involving Epic Games and the world-famous esports title ‘Fortnite’ before the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
- Advising Darabase on immersive location-based AR and Metaverse projects concerning the monetisation of digital rights in both the mixed reality and virtual reality space.
- Advising OliveX – a digital health and fitness company – on delivering unique user experiences through fitness gamification, AR, and play-to-earn experiences.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Theatre, publishing and other media Tier 1
RPC is a regular advisor to leading national and local newspapers, web and book publishers, broadcasters, magazines, tech and freelance journalists, and media liability insurers. Team head Keith MathiesonPractice head(s):
Keith Mathieson
Other key lawyers:
Rupert Cowper-Coles; Alex Wilson; Alex Vakil; Samantha Thompson; Nadia Tymkiw; Mafruhdha Miah; Alex Pollock
Testimonials
‘Strong media defence practice, particularly with regard to newspapers.’
‘Keith Mathieson has enormous experience and is an extremely able lawyer.’
‘Rupert Cowper Coles is highly recommended.’
‘Keith Mathieson is an extremely experience elder statesman whose advice is always spot on,’
‘Alex Vakil is ambitious and charismatic – his advice is clear and he does not shy away from a challenge.’
‘We have been very impressed with quality of the up-and-coming Alex Pollock’s work.’
‘RPC has more strength in depth on issues such as libel, privacy and data protection than any other London law firm.’
‘Keith Mathieson is the most experienced media defence solicitor in London, having worked the sector for decades, with many high-profile national and international publisher clients.’
Key clients
Associated Newspapers Limited
Times Newspapers Limited
News Group Newspapers Limited
Reach plc (Mirror Group Newspapers)
Bloomberg L.P.
Peter McCormack
Channel 4
Realtid Media AB
The Bureau of Investigative Journalism
Carole Cadwalladr
Work highlights
- Defending Associated Newspapers in an ongoing libel claim brought by the Duke of Sussex.
- Advising MGN on the long-running and high-profile phone hacking litigation.
- Defending Carole Cadwalladr in a libel claim brought by Arron Banks which was subject to a Court of Appeal decision.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Reputation management Tier 1
As ‘one of the most experienced’ defendant-focused media teams, RPC comprises specialists in defamation, privacy and editorial advisory services; the firm acts for clients across all areas of the media, including national and local newspapers, broadcasters, magazines and freelance journalists. Practice head Keith MathiesonPractice head(s):
Keith Mathieson
Other key lawyers:
Rupert Cowper-Coles; Alex Wilson; Alex Vakil; Samantha Thompson; Nadia Tymkiw; Mafruhdha Miah; Thomas Otter
Testimonials
‘The leading defendant firm, with a superb team which has great strength at every level.’
‘Alex Vakil is a great all-rounder with a cool head under pressure.’
‘The RPC reputation management team is one of the most experienced in London.’
‘Keith Mathieson is a veteran partner who has seen the press through some of the most important defamation and privacy litigation. His judgement is second to none, as is his legal knowledge.’
‘Rupert Cowper-Coles and Alex Wilson are relatively new partners, but already experienced in handling important media cases.’
‘Samantha Thompson is very good and a pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
Associated Newspapers Limited
Times Newspapers Limited
News Group Newspapers Limited
Reach plc (Mirror Group Newspapers)
Bloomberg L.P.
The BBC
Peter McCormack
Channel 4
Realtid Media AB
The Bureau of Investigative Journalism
Carole Cadwalladr
Work highlights
- Defending Associated Newspapers against an ongoing libel claim brought by the Duke of Sussex.
- Representing MGN in long-running phone hacking litigation.
- Defending Carole Cadwalladr against a libel claim brought by Arron Banks which was subject to a Court of Appeal decision.
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 1
RPC is experienced in investigating, defending and settling professional negligence claims, where the firm is active on behalf of an enviable client roster that includes global insurers and their insured. Rhian Howell acts as head of the Bristol office and focuses on defending solicitors and barristers against negligence claims. Matters relating to pensions are frequently handled by Rachael Healey, while Ben Goodier is a first point of contact for clients in the construction sector. Will Sefton‘s specialist areas include acting for solicitors and directors.Practice head(s):
Rhian Howell; Will Sefton; Ben Goodie; Robert Morris; Dan Guilfoyle
Other key lawyers:
Rachael Healey; David Allinson; Kirstie Pike; Scott Ashby; Claire Revell
Testimonials
‘A quality group of lawyers with a superb understanding of and reputation within the professional indemnity market.’
‘A sound firm with a strong brand image and great reputation in the market in which they operate.’
‘Will Sefton and Claire Revell are both experts in their field. Their calm and measured response is always appreciated at what can often be quite a troubling time.’
‘The whole team are extremely competent.’
‘A strong regional insurance practice with personable lawyers.’
‘Client-focused team who understand pressures that businesses are under when delivering professional services.’
‘Extremely friendly and approachable, solid reliable commercial advice, sensible.’
‘Friendly and approachable individuals. Supportive, really feel like they are on your side. Particularly Kirstie Pike, Scott Ashby and Will Sefton in Bristol.’
Key clients
Ince Gordon Dadds
Thomas Snell & Passmore
The Bar Mutual
Higgs & Sons, now Higgs LLP
Work highlights
- Defending Reynolds Chartered Surveyors in a claim being brought by a retired valuer relating to two alleged negligent valuations.
- Acted for Thomson Snell & Passmore LLP in a claim against it for negligence, corruption, fraud, material non-disclosure and perjury relating to long-running divorce proceedings.
- Defending a client in the criminal prosecution brought against him in relation to his role as a trustee of a pension scheme, arising out of employer related loans and investments made by the scheme.
Corporate and commercial > Customs and excise Tier 2
RPC acts for a range of clients, from SMEs to PLCs, on regulatory and compliance matters, as well as contentious issues, such as civil and criminal HMRC investigations, and litigation. Adam Craggs heads the practice with over 30 years’ experience in both direct and indirect tax dispute resolution mandates, including customs and excise disputes and is supported by Michelle Sloane, who has represented clients before the Tax Tribunals, Court of Appeal, Supreme Court and CJEU; she acts for corporates and high-net-worth individuals. Robert Waterson is another contact for tax disputes, including those with multi-jurisdictional aspects, and the team was recently bolstered at the junior level with the arrival of Liam McKay, who joined as senior associate from HMRC Solicitor’s Office in May 2022.Practice head(s):
Adam Craggs
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘An outstanding team with a deep knowledge of customs and excise’
‘Robert Waterson – a superb strategist with excellent client skills and remarkable attention to detail.’
‘Michelle Sloane – one of the few lawyers who can truly claim specialist expertise in customs and excise matters, she is a fount of knowledge’
Key clients
Frasers Group PLC (Sports Direct)
Universal Cycles Ltd
Work highlights
- Advising a PLC on a high-value excise duty dispute concerning alcohol exports.
- Representing Universal Cycles in a high-value dispute regarding Anti-Dumping Duty, Customs Duty and VAT.
- Advising members of the Bonded Warehousekeepers Association on customs and excise duty issues.
Corporate and commercial > VAT and indirect tax Tier 2
RPC has an ‘extremely hard working and disciplined team’ that supports clients across the full range tax disputes, encompassing the whole spectrum of VAT and indirect tax work, including mandates with multi-jurisdictional elements. The group has also witnessed in increase in judicial review cases against HMRC, as well as investigations. Adam Craggs chairs the team with significant experience in tax disputes involving VAT fraud. Robert Waterson is another tax dispute expert, having represented clients before all levels of the UK courts and Tax Tribunals, as well as the CJEU. In team news, senior associate Liam McKay joined the team in June 2022 from HMRC.Practice head(s):
Adam Craggs
Other key lawyers:
Robert Waterson; Keziah Mastin; Michelle Sloane; Constantine Christofi; Harry Smith; Alice Kemp
Testimonials
‘RPC is an absolutely phenomenal firm. It is second-to-none in terms of the full service it can offer to large multinational clients, and small clients alike. It has a broad range of specialisms, particularly in tax, where it can offer value for money.’
‘They are an extremely hard working and disciplined team, with an extraordinary ability to achieve great results for their clients, long before a contentious dispute arises. Even when a contentious dispute arises, they are formidable in trying to secure the best result. They have strategic awareness which is second to none.’
‘Adam Craggs is a master of technical tax. He is gifted and easy to get along with. He really understands the needs of his clients to help them achieve the best outcome he can.’
‘Michelle Sloane provides an absolutely brilliant service in the indirect tax and criminal tax cross-over space. She is a one-stop-shop to ensure that the client’s needs are being met, and that they are insulated from any associated criminal proceedings that may be being considered by HMRC. She is feared for her strategic brilliance, and can outmanoeuvre even the most savvy opponent.’
‘Alice Kemp is the most enthusiastic and hard working individual that a client could hope to have. She is like a blood hound scouting out forensically important evidence that are game changers for her clients.’
‘Outstanding team with excellent knowledge across VAT and other indirect taxes, alongside a wealth of experience in litigating in the Tax Tribunals and appeal courts.’
‘Robert Waterson is a superb strategist and a client favourite with an eye for overall strategy, as well as being all over the detail.’
‘Michelle Sloane is deeply experienced and knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
Metropolitan International School Ltd
TSB plc
Universal Cycles
Work highlights
- Representing TSB in a VAT dispute regarding a transitional services agreement following the bank’s split with Lloyds.
- Acting for the Metropolitan International Schools Ltd in an appeal before the First-tier Tribunal regarding a VAT dispute with HMRC concerning the supply of blended distance learning courses for the VAT periods 2015-2017 – value £10m.
Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil Tier 2
Comprising a large specialist team, RPC is well-equipped to take on complex and multi-jurisdictional cases. With notable experience in Russian/FSU fraud disputes, the firm is developing innovative approaches to crypto fraud and asset recovery. The team is led by Tom HibbertPractice head(s):
Tom Hibbert
Other key lawyers:
Dan Wyatt; Tim Potts; Jonathan Cary; Chris Ross; Parham Kouchikali; Alan Williams
Testimonials
‘The team at RPC is excellent. They have a real depth of knowledge in civil fraud, banking and international arbitration. Their banking and civil fraud practices overlap offering real synergies between the two areas.’
‘We contacted the RPC team based on their strong reputation in commercial dispute cases. The team came highly recommended by other lawyers and were quick to connect us with the appropriate partner to lead the case.’
‘RPC has a very experienced civil fraud team, with strengths at all levels. It is particularly good at looking at unexplored angles, legal and factual, which can unlock the case. The team is highly motivated and hard-working.’
‘This is a large, but very approachable team – everyone pulls their weight and they are particularly strong at gearing up and resourcing for big matters.’
‘Dan Wyatt is an excellent junior partner, well versed in all matters of fraud litigation and particularly strong in crypto work. He’s flying in the fraud and crypto arenas and is profiling amazingly for someone of his level.’
‘Parham Kouchikali is excellent to work with and provides a tier one service to his clients: he is thoughtful, hard-working and strategically minded. He runs a brilliant team of associates, barristers and experts.’
Key clients
Federal Government of Nigeria
Siam Commercial Bank Public Company Limited
Loreley Financing (Jersey) No. 30 Limited
Kostyantin Zhevago
Bank St Petersburg
Libra Holdings Limited
Leonid Khanukaev
Apollo Ventures Co Ltd
Hua She Asset Management (Shanghai)
Work highlights
- Represented the Federal Republic of Nigeria in its claim against JP Morgan (JPM), arising out of the bank’s role in transferring $875 million to a company, Malabu Oil & Gas Limited, which was the vehicle for a disgraced former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum, Chief Etete, pursuant to a fraudulent and corrupt scheme relating to the acquisition of an oil prospecting licence (OPL 245) by the oil majors Shell and Eni for the sum of $1.3 billion.
- Representing Siam Commercial Bank Company Ltd in its defence of Commercial Court proceedings brought by a Thai businessman (and his associated companies), currently living in political exile in France. The US$2 billion claim arises from the sale of the claimants’ majority interest in a Thai group of companies specialising in largescale wind energy projects.
- The team acts for the Ukrainian billionaire businessman Kostyantin Zhevago in relation to claims arising from the insolvency of Bank Finance and Credit (BFC) brought by the UK incorporated company WWRT Limited (WWRT). WWRT alleges that it has claims against Mr Zhevago under certain loans assigned to it from the Deposit Guarantee Fund of Ukraine.
Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail Tier 2
RPC’s banking litigation practice has ‘strengths across all levels of seniority’, with expertise in contentious insolvency and restructuring situations. The firm is able to act for sovereign states, European regional banks, pension funds, hedge funds, and high-net-worth individuals, on disputes linked to loan facilities, cryptocurrencies, and fraud. ‘Top-class banking litigator’ Simon Hart is head of the team, with vast experience in multi-jurisdictional litigation linked to complex fraud and asset tracing. Tom HibbertPractice head(s):
Simon Hart
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Simon Hart is a top class banking litigator. He is managing some of the biggest claims in England against banks. An absolute cool head no matter the temperature of the case. Massive levels of stamina which are needed for big trials. A very effective team leader.
‘Tom Hibbert: he heads the department and is an extraordinarily impressive lawyer, with real insight and strategic flair. He is exactly who you would want in a negotiation. He has huge experience of banking litigation from both sides, stretching back over 30 years.’
‘Emma West is a great talent: capable of moving from the detail to the big picture with ease; intelligent and a delight to work with.’
‘Christopher Wheatley is another great talent; tough and dogged; excellent draftsman; very impressive lawyer.’
‘Alexandra Shearer is very hard-working, very clever and has a bright future in banking litigation.’
‘Strength across all levels of seniority. An approachable and communicative set of lawyers with good market insight and legal knowledge.’
‘Davina Given is experienced, knowledgeable and insightful lawyer with an ability to understand her clients and relate to them with sensitivity.’
Key clients
Federal Government of Nigeria
Loreley Financing (Jersey) No 30 Limited
Bank St Petersburg (BSP)
Siam Commercial Bank Public Company Limited
Work highlights
- Representing Loreley in a claim for fraudulent misrepresentation and unlawful means conspiracy against various Credit Suisse entities in relation to a £100m tranche of a synthetic Collateralised Debt Obligation purchased in 2007.
- Representing Siam Commercial Bank Company in its defence of Commercial Court proceedings brought by a Thai businessman (and his associated companies), currently living in political exile in France.
- Represented the Federal Government of Nigeria in its claim against JP Morgan, arising out of the bank’s role in transferring $875m to Malabu Oil & Gas Limited, which was the vehicle for a disgraced former Nigerian Minister of Petroleum, Chief Etete.
Dispute resolution > Tax litigation and investigations Tier 2
RPC offers a full-service tax disputes practice with expertise in the full range of areas, from dawn raids and criminal investigations to tax litigation and transfer pricing disputes. Department head Adam Craggs has over 30 years’ experience in direct and indirect tax disputes and is an accredited mediator. Robert Waterson‘s practice is focused on multijurisdictional disputes, including those involving issues of public and EU law. Michelle Sloane advises on both civil and criminal tax matters, with experience at the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. Senior associate Harry Smith has broad sector expertise and advises on both domestic and international tax matters.Practice head(s):
Adam Craggs
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
TSB
Frasers Group PLC
Universal Cycles
Metropolitan International Schools Ltd
Newcastle United Football Club
Clipperton & Lloyd
AML Tax (UK) Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised TSB in relation to a complex VAT dispute concerning the correct treatment of services provided to it under a transitional services agreement arising out of its split with Lloyds.
- Led on major litigation for Universal Cycles Limited concerning the application of additional duty following an investigation by the EU anti-fraud body, OLAF.
Employment > Health and safety Tier 2
RPC houses a regulatory focused practice which regularly handles corporate manslaughter, gross negligence and fatal accident related work. The team consists of numerous insurance experts. Practice head Gavin Reese has vast regulatory expertise, and acts in numerous notable inquiries. Standout individual in the team Mamata Dutta ‘always achieves the best results’, provides advice across the remit of health and safety matters and was promoted to partner in May 2023. Bristol-based Fiona Hahlo is well-equipped to handle high-profile work.Practice head(s):
Gavin Reese
Other key lawyers:
Fiona Hahlo; Mamata Dutta; Steven Aitken
Testimonials
‘A premier health and safety firm with unrivalled expertise in fatal and catastrophic injury accidents – one of the best defendant firms practising in this area of law.’
‘Gavin Reece is a master tactician – his huge experience means that he is adept at handling the most difficult and sensitive cases.’
‘Mamata Dutta always achieves the best results – her clients respect her clear and focused advice and opponents admire her attention-to-detail and mastery of every case.’
‘The teams strengths are far-reaching from representation in court hearings to the provision of general day-to-day advice. On every occasion they provide pragmatic, sensible and clear-to-understand advice and guidance. They take the time to clearly understand my needs, researching my sector in order to full understand its challenges.’
‘I’ve felt intimidated working with senior legal professionals before, I have never felt that at any point in any of my dealings with RPC. They are good company. I instruct them for their expertise but each time they take the time to ensure I am fully briefed and aware of what their advice is and why.’
‘The team is open to challenges and always ensure that they are deliver the best service they can.’
‘Gavin Reese and Mamata Dutta are a pleasure to work with, they are good company, supportive, engaging and extremely knowledgeable.’
Key clients
AXA XL
Work highlights
- Acting for a client who was involved in the refurbishment works at Grenfell Tower, from the immediate aftermath, and on an ongoing basis through the Police investigation and the Inquiry proceedings.
- Represented the client during the course of an investigation by an Environmental Health Officer following an incident involving a forklift truck which caused injuries to an employee.
- Representing a client in relation to a prosecution by the HSE following a fatality at a customer’s site.
Industry focus > TMT Tier 2
RPC acts for leading digital platforms, insurance providers and retail businesses on matters relating to media, tech and outsourcing. On the contentious side the team handles disputes while non-contentious work involves providing regulatory advice, commercial agreements and acquisitions. Jeremy Drew is experienced in representing large tech platforms and leads the team while Oliver BrayPractice head(s):
Jeremy Drew
Other key lawyers:
Oliver Bray; David Cran; Keith Mathieson; Mark Crichard
Key clients
Meta
Youtube
Wave Optics
Bloomberg
LINK Scheme
eClerx
Zensar Technologies UK Ltd
Travel Ledger
Royal & Sun Alliance
Ebury
Ceres Power
Work highlights
- Advised Google in respect of its defence of the highly publicised claim brought by Epic Games.
- Advised WaveOptics on a number of contracts relating to the development and licence for highly technical nano-technology.
Insurance > Insurance and reinsurance litigation Tier 2
Simon Laird heads up RPC‘s global insurance practice and is an expert at handling onshore and offshore commercial disputes, supporting clients in the financial services sector. The team have a strong offering in financial, liability and professional lines, property, power generation, aviation, energy and marine insurance and reinsurance lines. Property market head Victoria Sherratt handles a range of coverage disputes, with particular expertise in complex business interruption issues and fraudulent claims, while for political risk and trade credit insurance, Naomi Vary is the main contact. Financial lines market head James Wickes is a go-to for D&O, crime, warranty and indemnity claims. Other recommended individuals include Toby Savage and Gary Walkling, both of whom are authorities in energy matters; and Lucy Dyson for casualty exposures in the US, Caribbean and Latin America.Practice head(s):
Simon Laird
Other key lawyers:
James Wickes; Victoria Sherratt; Toby Savage; Gary Walkling; Naomi Vary; Lucy Dyson; Ben Gold; Oliver Knox
Testimonials
‘Commercially strong with excellent response times.’
‘Victoria Sherratt is a staunch defender of her client’s interests and isn’t afraid to give bad news if required.’
‘They are handling D&O and W&I claims for us very competently.’
‘I recommend Ben Gold, Oliver Knox and James Wickes.’
Key clients
Probitas 1492
QBE
Arch
AIG UK
Liberty
Hiscox
Axis
AXA XL
Hamilton
Chaucer
Work highlights
- Pursuing a high-profile multi-party subrogated recovery following a fire in an elderly care residence involving allegations of defective design and construction of a timber frame building with a “stay put” fire strategy.
- Acting as coverage counsel for the primary and excess civil liability insurers of one of the world’s largest asset managers in relation to high profile liability driven investment strategies.
Insurance > Insurance: corporate and regulatory Tier 2
RPC possesses capabilities to both handle major transactional mandates for clients while also being capable in handling day-to-day matters; the firm’s core transactional strengths extend to the Lloyd’s space and legacy transactions in addition to a knowledge of both M&A and private equity in the insurance sector. The firm also has a regulatory offering which is led by practice head Matthew Griffith, being the head of the wider financial institutions regulatory group, who brings his valuable experience in-house at major financial service companies. James Mee works across corporate and private equity who is ‘deeply embedded in the sector‘, leading on a number of the firm’s most complex and high-profile transactions in this space. William Hogarth has a broad insurance practice, but also possesses particular niches in insurtech, parametric insurance, and bespoke reinsurance.Practice head(s):
Matthew Griffith
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Deep industry expertise and connections.‘
‘James Mee is deeply embedded in the sector.’
Key clients
MS Amlin
Asta Capital
Catalina
Howden
Assured Partners
Mosaic
AIG
Beat Capital Partners
Optio
Markel
RSA
Aviva
Ardonagh
Work highlights
- Advised MS Amlin Underwriting on its £1.2 billion business transfer and reinsurance with Riverstone.
- Advised Asta Capital on its sale to Davies Group.
- Advised Catalina on setting up their Lloyd’s syndicate.
Insurance > Product liability: defendant Tier 2
RPC is known for its work for insurers and insured with experience of handling life sciences claims, de-fending manufacturers and suppliers of medical devices. The practice has experience of products in a range of sectors including automobile, construction, packaging, telecoms, food and drink. Gavin Reese deals with product claims with an international element and co-heads the team with Dorothy FlowerPractice head(s):
Gavin Reese; Dorothy Flower
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Highly regarded team with strength and depth, engaged in some of the most complex and specialised cases in the sector.’
Key clients
AXA XL
Bard Pharmaceuticals Ltd
British Standards Institution Group
Heidelberg Engineering Ltd
Make Yourself Amazing (MYA)
Medisoft Ltd
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 2
RPC is a defendant-focused firm which covers all areas of professional negligence. The firm has a strong profile in the financial sector, with instructions from numerous major insurers and accountancy firms. Construction is a key area of strength for the firm, with a client list which includes a significant number of major consultants and contractors. Nick BirdPractice head(s):
Nick Bird; Alan Stone; James Wickes; Richard Breavington
Other key lawyers:
Karen Morrish; Tim Bull; Michael Newham; Davina Given; Graham Reid; Simon Laird; Richard Breavington; Alexandra Anderson; Ben Gold; Tom Green; Eleanor Kilner
Testimonials
‘The teams are run extremely well by the partners and there is evidently good support and development because even junior lawyers are confident in their views and know that their opinions are valid.’
‘Alan Stone must have learned to clone himself because he is “everywhere” on his cases. Brings on teams of young lawyers who very quickly progress to senior associate and partner level. A great cultivator of legal talent.’
‘The professional negligence team is strong. The partner I know and work with most regularly is Nick Bird. Nick and his associates are always technically strong and combine technical excellence with good litigation instincts in order to achieve the best solution.’
‘Nick Bird is intellectually excellent and thoughtful in his approach.’
‘RPC have been my “go to” choice for external advice for 30 years. Their personal qualities along with their professional skills make them easy to deal with on what can be highly sensitive matters’
‘Alexandra Anderson has encyclopedic knowledge of insurance, PI law, surveyors, architects, solicitors and engineers’ negligence. She is a leader in joined up thinking between claims, law and the impact on insurers and the market.’
‘The team has huge experience and knowledge of the law and practice.’
‘Tom Green – excellent sector knowledge, commercial approach.’
Key clients
Kingsley Napley
AXIS
Hiscox
AIG
QBE
Sompo
Arch
CBRE
HDI
CNAH
Amtrust
AXA XL
Folgate
Markel
Liberty
Work highlights
- Appointed to act for Studio E Architects Limited, the architect appointed in relation to the refurbishment works at Grenfell Tower. The case concerns potentially systemic issues with Building Regulations and the regulations of building products.
- Acting for architect, Broadway Malyan, in a claim brought by Balfour Beatty in relation to fire safety and allegedly defective cladding, alleged defective ventilation and roofing and windows defects at a mixed-use development of student residences in Bethnal Green, London.
- Appointed jointly by Zurich and the defendant directors against an allegation that the directors of ESMS Global had personal liability to the employees of the company to ensure that 20% of the company’s shares were put into an Employee Benefit Trust (EBT).
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2
RPC advises on technology contracts, outsourcing matters, regulatory issues, fund raising mandates and M&A transactions, in addition to technology-related disputes. The practice is also able to assist clients on innovative projects, with industry knowledge in emerging technologies, such as NFTs, AI and InsurTech. Jeremy Drew, who advises on contentious and non-contentious technology matters, jointly leads the team alongside Mark Crichard, who focuses on mandates concerning procurement and outsourcing. Tom PurtonPractice head(s):
Jeremy Drew; Mark Crichard
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Meta
Google and YouTube
WaveOptics
LINK Scheme
eClerx
Zensar Technologies UK Ltd
Travel Ledger
RSA
Gist
Ebury
Travel Ledger
[King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust]
Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
McArthur Glen
Work highlights
- Advising Google in respect of its defence of a claim brought by Epic Games, concerning the Google Play Store and Epic’s battle royale game ‘Fortnite’.
- Advising WaveOptics on a number of contracts relating to the development and licence for nano-technology, including the “growing” of organic nano electronic circuit boards for its augmented reality technology.
- Advising the LINK Scheme, the UK payment system and cash machine network, on the management and resolution of issues under its outsourcing agreement with its key suppliers and negotiating LINK’s internal IT and security contracts.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Advertising & marketing Tier 2
RPC houses a 'brilliant, yet friendly and personable' team, which assists a number of notable clients, namely Shiseido, New Look,and Dreams. The 'impeccably pragmatic' group frequently acts in campaigns, handling endorsement and giveaway related issues, and green claims. Practice head Oliver BrayPractice head(s):
Oliver Bray
Other key lawyers:
Hettie Homewood; Rachael Ellis; Tom James
Testimonials
‘Impeccably pragmatic, their advice enables swift navigation of black letter law and applicable regulations.
‘Conclusive output from a brilliant, yet friendly and personable team.’
‘Oliver Bray always goes above and beyond.’
‘Rachael Ellis is an expert level advisor.’
‘Tom James is a rising star.’
‘The team is very knowledgeable, pragmatic and approachable. There is always a very prompt response to any queries, and they always have a sensible approach.’
‘Oliver is an expert in the field of marketing and advertising, he is always available to discuss potential issues or concerns. Olly always gives a perspective which evidences his years of experience.’
Key clients
Youtube
PizzaExpress
Shiseido
Techtronic Industries
Jet2 Holidays
New Look
Dreams
News UK & Ireland
Which?
Darabase
News UK
Work highlights
- Advising Google on advertising and marketing and legal clearance work, including international campaigns.
- Advising PizzaExpress on its advertising and marketing campaigns, including prize draws; competitions; contests; rules around influencer marketing; endorsement and meal giveaways; direct marketing; data compliance; and copy review.
- Advising Dreams on sports and entertainment-related endorsements, sponsorship and creative arrangements, including those relating to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games.
Employment > Health and safety Tier 2
RPC‘s ‘strength and depth allows the team to effectively offer a seamless service‘ which spans both the contentious and regulatory sides. The group regularly deals with fatal cases, including gross negligence and corporate manslaughter investigations. Gavin Reese and Fiona Hahlo are the key contacts; the former is singled out by one client as a ‘perfect practitioner‘, while the latter, who made partner in May 2022, is described as ‘a terrific asset in every case in which she is instructed‘.Practice head(s):
Gavin Reese; Fiona Hahlo
Other key lawyers:
Steven Aitken
Testimonials
‘RPC has a very strong health and safety team with huge experience in representing both individuals and companies facing serious health and safety prosecutions.’
‘Their strength and depth allows the team to effectively offer a seamless service covering regulatory prosecutions, civil claims and inquests.’
‘Gavin Reese is the perfect practitioner. Outstanding judgment and tactical acumen, allied with a forensic eye for detail, always ensures great results.’
‘Fiona Hahlo is a terrific asset in every case in which she is instructed. Works extremely hard and especially adept at understanding technical, expert evidence. Adds real value into every case.’
‘Really in-depth team covering a range of sectors.’
‘Gavin Reese leads with calm authority.’
‘Fiona Hahlo marshals the expert evidence superbly.’
Key clients
AXA XL
Work highlights
- Represented the director of a structural engineering company in a prosecution for health and safety offences following a fatality resulting from a wall collapse.
- Acted for a window frame manufacturer following an accident on a construction site which led to an employee being very seriously injured.
Crime, fraud and licensing > Gaming and betting Tier 3
RPC leverages its expertise in sports, esports, digital and technology matters to handle commercial, intellectual property, data and disputes work. Jeremy Drew co-heads the practice and is a key contact for sports database rights disputes. Fellow co-head Josh Charalambous assists sports betting companies, B2B betting technology providers, and brands with a wide variety of gaming and betting mandates.Practice head(s):
Jeremy Drew; Josh Charalambous
Testimonials
‘RPC has a remarkable depth of experience in the gaming and betting sector, with a range of clients and a track record of success in litigating in the sector.’
‘Jeremy Drew has a huge following and is the king of strategy.’
‘Joshua Charalambous is bound for greatness, a really great new addition.’
‘RPC’s gaming practice is unique in its ability to provide clients with a full range of legal services across the sector.’
‘I have been particularly impressed by their investment in and commitment to diversity and inclusion.’
Key clients
LeoVegas
Soft Construct
VBet
FeedConstruct
Royal Panda
Game Digital
Work highlights
- Acting for Soft Construct in relation to High Court proceedings brought by Genius Sports concerning live sports data.
- Advising a leading esports platform provider on gambling licensing requirements for free to play watch-along prediction games for competitive gaming competitions.
- Advising GAME in respect of the ongoing operation of the BELONG Esports gaming arenas in the UK.
Employment > Employers Tier 3
RPC‘s London practice head Patrick Brodie is regularly engaged for employment integration, outsourcing and restructuring projects. He also possesses very notable niche expertise, including on the cross-over between employment rights and the engagement of state immunity. A further central part of the team is Kelly Thomson, who handles workplace equality matters as well as post-M&A employment restructuring work. The firm provides assistance to a broad spectrum of clients operating in industries ranging from sport to shipbroking and media to metallurgy.Practice head(s):
Patrick Brodie
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is dynamic, lively, warm, friendly and listens! They are sensitive to the individual’s circumstances.’
‘Patrick Brodie – outstanding intellect, creative thinker, engaged. Kelly Thomson – wonderful, dynamic.’
‘Patrick Brodie is outstanding in terms of his commercial advice. He has so much empathy and is able to provide great insights into complex employment matters combining legal excellence with a deep understanding of human psychology which makes him stand out from the crowd. ‘
‘They go the extra mile and are so experienced they are unflappable. I would highly recommend the whole RPC employment team.’
Key clients
ArcelorMittal Group
Associated Newspapers
SportsDirect.com
The Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia
Frasers Group plc
NCP
Essity
BOC
Zensar Technologies
Agent Provocateur
GIST
Studio Retail Limited
Coventry Arena Limited
Evans Cycles
Link Scheme Ltd and Link Scheme Holdings Ltd
Shepherd Neame
Braemar Shipbroking Limited
Missguided Retail Limited
Vantage Power
Egon Zehnder
Times Media Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for the diplomat of a Gulf state in a Supreme Court case and decision that are of international and global importance and effect. It changes the law on diplomatic immunity in the UK and internationally. The case defined the extent to which diplomatic immunity could be maintained in relation to employment where there are allegations of human trafficking.
- Acting for the AA plc in a case where the former CEO and Chair of the AA plc was sacked for gross misconduct and sued the company for over £100million.
- Advising England Lacrosse, the National Governing Body for lacrosse in England, on the critical and charged issue of gender participation in sport, and the sport’s transgender policy.
Insurance > Clinical negligence: defendant Tier 3
RPC’s medical and life sciences team is led by Dorothy FlowerPractice head(s):
Dorothy Flower
Other key lawyers:
Sian Morgan; Florence Page; James Davies; Genevieve Isherwood
Testimonials
‘An incredibly knowledgeable team with fantastic client care. The defence has been thoroughly investigated and thought through before input is requested from counsel.’
‘Sian Morgan is intuitive, incredibly knowledgeable and delivers fantastic client care. Able to manage complex cases and look at issues from all angles.’
‘I have been consistently impressed with the service from the clinical risk team – professional, approachable, responsive, proactive, clear and thorough.’
‘I don’t know of a firm that has such a range of talented solicitors, which stretches across both their Bristol and London offices. The team is thorough and will often try to nip cases in the bud quickly, with a good track record of sniffing out spurious or weak claims and ensuring they do not go past the response stage. A superb firm.’
‘Sian Morgan is highly personable and an excellent team leader. Always keen to put up a good fight for her client.’
‘James Davies is very personable and knows his subject. James gets the brokers’ perspective as well, which is a standout quality.’
‘Genevieve Isherwood is someone who really gets the insurance industry and knows when a commercial deal makes sense. Very intelligent and, as with most RPC solicitors, very personable.’
Key clients
Avenues Healthcare Ltd
Axis
Beazley
CNA Hardy
Corvelia
Exemplar Healthcare
GTD
HCRG Care Group Limited
Hiscox
MS Amlin
MYA Clinics Ltd
QBE
Renaissance Re
Royal Hospital for Neuro-Disability
Royal Sun Alliance
Spire Healthcare plc
18 Week Support
Work highlights
- Advising CNA Hardy and their insured on the alleged negligence of a GP resulting in a fatality.
- Acting for insurers and their insured in the defence of a claim arising from the death of a 44-year-old patient.
- Defending an orthopaedic surgeon against two claims of negligence during surgery, resulting in the need for further revision surgery and a poor functional outcome.
Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity Tier 3
RPC counts major tech, social media, and newspaper companies among its impressive roster of clients, handling the full range of contentious and non-contentious matters for clients including Meta, Google, TikTok, and the BBC. Jon Bartley leads on data advisory matters, with a sector focus on retail and technology. Richard Breavington takes point on cyber matters, while Rupert Cowper-Coles and David Cran are the key names for data and tech disputes. Also in the core team is Oliver BrayPractice head(s):
Jon Bartley; Richard Breavington; Rupert Cowper-Coles; David Cran
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘I value my firm’s relationship with RPC very highly. Oliver Bray leads a great team that is keen to learn about our business and work with us as true partners. The team’s willingness to get underneath the bonnet and really understand the business is a huge asset.’
‘The stand-out names for me are Oliver Bray and Joe Lippitt.’
‘Oliver Bray is a trusted adviser and a great ally. Olly has a genuine interest in our business and has tackled many complex data protection issues for me. He makes a real effort to understand not just the legal issues, but also the business dynamics.’
‘Joe Lippitt is outstanding. Joe manages a significant workload of complex work for us around data sharing contracts. Joe has also dealt incredibly well with a series of high profile contracts that have been particularly time-pressured due to media interest in the topic. I have complete trust in Joe to represent the interests of my organisation with the same tenacity as my own team members.’
Key clients
Meta (including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp)
News UK
BBC
Frasers Group
Associated Newspapers
Times Newspapers Limited
Reach (formerly Mirror Group)
techUK
Hiscox
Chubb
Work highlights
- Advised a household name insurer on a significant project to review 50 data-heavy and complex vendor agreements and revise, update and renegotiate as needed.
- Advised a national newspaper group on two separate ICO investigations into the content of newspaper articles.
- Provided full support to a major software provider on the issues arising from a ransomware attack that had the potential to impact national transport infrastructure
Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates) Tier 3
With the investigations technology and client data team being fully integrated into RPC’s white-collar crime practice, the ‘commercially minded’ team offers strong tech-related financial crime advice to a global client-base. The firm also demonstrates a growing presence in the financial trade sanctions arena, acting in the first case before the Commercial Court regarding the interpretation of Russian trade sanctions. The head, Sam Tate, is a ‘walking encyclopedia’, routinely being instructed on political financial crime matters and negotiating DPAs with the SFO, whilst Adam Craggs has expertise in criminal tax proceedings. Davina Given focuses on sanctions and regulatory matters, and Jonathan Cary concentrates on finance disputes. Michelle Sloane is an expert on financial crime litigation, the ’unflappable’ senior associate Lucy Kerr covers all aspects of compliance and policy matters.Practice head(s):
Sam Tate
Other key lawyers:
Adam Craggs; Davina Given; Jonathan Cary; Michelle Sloane; Lucy Kerr; Kate Langley; Tom Jenkins; Alice Kemp
Testimonials
‘This is the go-to firm for any high net worth individual or corporate experiencing difficulty with the Revenue. They have really high-quality lawyers who fight for the client. Alice Kemp is a brilliant young associate who has a huge legal brain and is an outstanding litigator.’
‘Adam Craggs is top lawyer in this field. He has particular expertise in seeing off HMRC investigations and preventing criminal prosecutions. He knows the ways and procedures of the Tax Tribunal inside out. he is also a very canny and strategic thinker. A former HMRC lawyer many years ago, he knows how the system works and how to see off the Revenue.’
‘Sam Tate is a walking encyclopedia about the law of corporate crime and leads a great team of enthusiastic and hardworking associates. They are fast but careful, good and responsive.’
‘The team is led by an excellent and highly approachable lawyer, Sam Tate. To me, that’s its key strength. It has a wide variety of complementary experience amongst members from former senior in-house specialists to those who have previously worked at the SFO as well as members of the Bar. This blend results in wide expertise from investigations to and litigation to advisory work and risk assessments.’
‘I have particularly worked with Sam Tate who is hugely skilled, experienced and (disarmingly) intelligent. He has is able to apply deep experience from working in-house, from monitorships with businesses under DPA as well as from private practice. He makes solving problems appear easy, such is his communication ability, and he is affable and always a genuine pleasure to work with.’
‘A commercially minded team with strong leadership and a positive approach to dealing with issues. The team are excellent collaborators, meaning you do not suffer from “associate holiday syndrome”. This is a tight team with a good breadth of skills who provide considerable bang for your buck.’
‘The type of work they do means clients are often making high stakes decisions on limited information, and the team bring a cool eye to what can be a pressure-cooker situation. No matter the complexity, Sam Tate will have seen the issue before and his in-house experience means he can cut to the nub of a problem with an eye to the need to bring stakeholders on the journey.’
‘Lucy Kerr is an associate on the rise, balancing deep knowledge of the subject with an unflappable demeanor and a positive outlook. When the going gets tough, you want her on your team.’
Key clients
The Federal Republic of Nigeria
Compass Group Plc
Bloomberg News
Jones Lang LaSalle
NEOM
Warner Music Group
Newcastle United Football Club
Al Dahra
McArthurGlen Group
Work highlights
- Advised Jones Lang LaSalle and its subsidiaries in relation to a Serious Fraud Office (SFO) investigation into bribery and the negotiation of two deferred prosecution agreements (DPAs) that were entered into with the SFO in July 2021.
- Instructed by the NEOM Ethics and Compliance department to support in the development and implementation of an optimised, end-to-end third-party risk management process.
- Instructed by the Federal Republic of Nigeria to seek millions in compensation from Glencore, a global natural resource and trading conglomerate, following its admission of offences under the UK Bribery Act 2010 regarding its corrupt activities in the Nigerian oil industry.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 3
Noted for its ‘ability to navigate complex legal and regulatory issues’, RPC’s areas of expertise include IP disputes, global trade mark portfolio management, as well as recent involvement in copyright infringement claims. The team is particularly active in the retail, tech, media and sport sectors. Co-lead and ‘great strategist’ Jeremy Drew is well-versed in both contentious and non-contentious IP, and fellow co-head David Cran strengthens the team with his capabilities across a broad array of sectors, from telecoms to retail. ‘Highly pragmatic’ Ciara Cullen has represented various clients in disputes, with particular experience in the food and drink and retail arenas. ‘Hard-working and talented’ Ben Mark’s strengths lie in handling trade marks and passing off matters.Practice head(s):
David Cran; Jeremy Drew
Other key lawyers:
Ciara Cullen; Ben Mark; Sarah Mountain
Testimonials
‘Ciara Cullen is highly pragmatic and puts her litigation skills to good use when negotiating complex agreements and resolving difficult disputes.’
‘Jeremy Drew is a great strategist and a pleasure to work with.’
‘Ben Mark is among the best of the best. He is among the wisest, hard-working, and talented lawyers.’
‘RPC have in-depth knowledge of the law and offer practical advice, in keeping with our business objectives.’
‘RPC’s practice is unique in its ability to provide clients with a full range of legal services across the TMT sector. They have a deep understanding of the issues that are relevant to clients in this space and are able to provide clear, commercially-minded advice.’
‘They take the time to understand their clients’ businesses and objectives and are able to provide tailored advice that is aligned with those objectives. They are also known for their ability to navigate complex legal and regulatory issues and are able to provide practical solutions that help clients to manage risk.’
‘I have been particularly impressed by their investment in and commitment to diversity and inclusion. RPC remains the only firm where I have actually been aware of a conscious and deliberate strategy of creating a balanced and diverse team working on each piece of litigation with which I have been involved.’
‘I have been consistently impressed with the individuals I work with at RPC in this space. They are talented, dedicated, and able to provide the highest level of service to their clients.’
Key clients
Être Cecile
SSP (Upper Crust, Millie’s Cookies and Ritazza)
Associated Newspapers
Soft Construct
Saracens R.F.C.
News UK
Frasers Group / Sports Direct
AB InBev
Irish Distillers
Which?
Kout Food Group
Work highlights
- Acting SoftConstruct in High Court litigation involving allegations of IP infringement concerning live sports data, and a defence and counterclaim involving competition law infringements.
- Acting for a major player in the cryptocurrency sector in passing off proceedings relating to Bitcoin brought by a high profile litigant.
- Providing ongoing advice to one of the world’s largest brewers on the IP and regulatory aspects of product launches and campaigns.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport Tier 3
RPC‘s sports group and commercial division chief Jeremy Drew is a key contact for a range of clients - including rugby teams, sports data companies, sports investors, sports consultancy companies and football clubs - on a diverse array of matters that includes litigations and commercial agreements. Oliver BrayPractice head(s):
Jeremy Drew
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team has a deep knowledge of the sector, exceptional strategic nous, and is lovely to work with.’
‘Josh Charalambous, who has just become a partner, is superb. He is responsive and clever, with a real gift for focussing on what is important (both in terms of the litigation and the client’s commercial aims). He’s also very fun to work with.’
‘Jeremy Drew is a standout partner. He is very popular with clients and is always on top of the issues. He also has an excellent commercial approach to his cases, giving practical advice to clients.’
‘A brilliant range of highly talented youth and experience. Great degree of proactivity and ability to see trouble ahead. Prompt and well versed on the every changing commercial market of sport. Very impressed with their work to date.’
Key clients
Mike Ashley
webuyanycar
Saracens RFC
Soft Construct
Sports Direct
Meta
Sport Industry Group
England Lacrosse
Mavericks Netball
The Esports Awards
Square Mile Sport
thinkBeyond Sport
OliveX
Newcastle United FC
National Student Esports
Sports Podcast Group
Dreams
Work highlights
- Instructed by Soft Construct in the long running sports data dispute in the High Court which included intervening in the Sportradar v Genius Sports and Football DataCo competition case around the rights to collect, distribute and own rights in respect of live sports data.
- Advised Saracens on a host of commercial and regulatory matters throughout the year including the first ever rugby partnerships by Socios.
- Acting for webuyanycar in its new and high-profile broadcast sponsorship of Sky Sports’ coverage of the Premier League.
Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious Tier 4
Corporate and commercial > M&A: Lower Mid-Market Deals, £100m-£750m Tier 4
With ‘super experience in M&A’ and a ‘great knowledge of industry,’ the team at RPC regularly works with a series of household names across various sectors, private equity and financial sponsors. Team leader Karen Hendy also co-leads the retail practice, handling listed company matters including takeovers, restructuring and M&A. The ‘client focused’ James Mee leads on insurance and financial services M&A mandates, while the highly experienced Neil Brown frequently handles large transactions in the insurance, technology and retail sectors. Senior corporate lawyer Nigel Collins has a growing Japanese client base and advises on a range of matters including investments, acquisitions, disposals and restructuring. Jeremy Cunningham is recommended for his work in the tech and media sectors. Other names to note include Ben Magahy, who acts as lead associate on M&A and corporate transactions involving private equity and financial sponsors.Practice head(s):
Karen Hendy
Other key lawyers:
James Mee; Neil Brown; Nigel Collins; Jeremy Cunningham; Ben Magahy; Marsha Williamson
Testimonials
‘They are really happy to tackle problems head on and give very well-rounded advice. They have great knowledge of industry and always there to tackle troubles ahead. They have super experience in M&A and a real voice of reason!’
‘Neil Brown was the lead and brilliant at pulling in right people at the right time.’
‘The team has a very client focused and commercial approach.’
‘James Mee is very client focused and goes above and beyond. Marsha Williamson is a fantastic associate.’
‘They team has a very commercial, transparent and open approach. The lawyers are responsive.’
‘I value Jeremy Cunningham’s responsiveness and that he is always looking for solutions and helping me analyse risk in the right way. He is very good at unpicking what matters and what does not. He is also excellent at managing and weaving in interaction from other disciplines e.g. employment, tax etc.’
Key clients
Frasers Group
Howden Group
MS Amlin
Ernst & Young
Ebury
Shepherd Neame
Saracens Rugby Club
Triumph
Dellner Woodville
Ceres Power
Agribriefing
Berkshire Hathaway
Aviva
Mosaic Insurance
Assured Partners
DG Innovate
Milk Visual Effects
Work highlights
- Advised global top ten insurer MS Amlin on a Lloyd’s insurance market deal valued at £1.2 billion.
- Advised the management team of Agribriefing on the sale of Agribriefing to Five Arrows Principal Investments and Synova backed Mintec.
- Advised Ebury Partners and acted on multiple matters worth $21 billion altogether in the last 12 months.
Corporate and commercial > Partnership Tier 4
Offering ‘great breadth and depth’ in partnership law, the ‘contemporary practice’ at RPC offers ‘talented’ lawyers that are ‘excellent client handlers’ with ‘technical expertise’ and experience in cross-border matters. Practice chair Patrick Brodie, who has a contentious and non-contentious practice, focuses on partnership terminations, mergers and corporate reorganisations. The team’s broad client roster includes architects, solicitors, accountants, actuaries and patent agents. Instructed on various matters affecting the legal service sector is the ‘technically astute’ Graham Reid, who offers extensive expertise in regulatory matters for professional services firms. The team expanded in January 2023 with the hires of the ‘good communicator’ and ‘technically solid’ Tom Wild from Mayer Brown International LLP and the ‘excellent, capable, down to earth’ Eleanor Kilner from Weightmans LLP.Practice head(s):
Patrick Brodie
Other key lawyers:
Graham Reid; Tom Wild; Eleanor Kilner; Matt Evans
Testimonials
‘The RPC team is the model of a contemporary practice. They are focused, they are excellent client handlers, they are very talented, and they are very agile.’
‘I have worked with Eleanor Kilner for a number of years and she is excellent, capable, down to earth and a real joy to work with. I have also worked with Matt Evans who is also down to earth, humble and a brilliant star of the future.’
‘RPC’s team offers great breadth and depth. Their technical expertise is second to none whilst their communication and availability is always something that can be relied on too.
‘They very much understand the commercial aspects of client goals, and are not just focused on delivering the law.’
‘Graham Reid is very technically astute, quick thinking and a good problem solver. Tom Wild is solid technically and also a very good communicator.’
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: premium Tier 4
RPC is for one client, ‘an excellent choice for heavyweight and complex commercial litigation’ acting on work related to shareholders, joint ventures, complex financial instruments, warranty breaches, insolvency, and professional negligence. The team frequently acts on matters stretching across multiple jurisdictions, and benefit from the established non-contentious practices of the firm. ‘Veteran litigator’ Geraldine ElliottPractice head(s):
Geraldine Elliott; Tom Hibbert
Other key lawyers:
Charlotte Henschen; Davina Given; Simon Hart; Matt Evans; Alan Williams; Dan Hemming; Dan Wyatt
Testimonials
‘RPC is an excellent choice for heavyweight and complex commercial litigation. They have considerable expertise and experience across the team. They are able to handle the largest and most complex matters in an efficient manner.’
‘Geraldine Elliot is a veteran litigator with considerable experience of a wide range of commercial disputes. She excels at client handling and taking the big strategic decisions.’
‘Davina Given is an experienced partner for art-related commercial disputes. She has excellent knowledge of the industry and sound judgment.’
‘Geraldine Andrews and Simon Hart are highly experienced and work well with clients and counsel. Matt Evans is energetic and thorough, super to work with.’
‘Charlotte Henschen is an outstanding litigator. She is clever, pragmatic, calm under pressure and with excellent judgment; the full package!’
‘Tom Hibbert is an extraordinarily impressive lawyer, with real insight and strategic flair. He is exactly who you would want in a negotiation. He has huge experience of banking litigation from both sides, stretching back over 30 years.’
‘I am particularly impressed by Simon Hart and Alan Williams. Simon Hart is very down to earth and easy to work with – he really knows banking litigation and has a fantastic instinct for case strategy. Alan Williams is always across the detail and phenomenally clever.’
‘Of the younger partners, Dan Hemming stands out as a future star in the market. Alan Williams and Dan Wyatt also should be mentioned.’
Key clients
The AA
Triumph Group Inc
Steinhoff International Holdings
Federal Government of Nigeria
Ingenious Media
Siam Commercial Bank Public Company Limited
Bonhams
Work highlights
- Acting for German and Austrian companies within the furniture retailer Steinhoff International Holdings N.V. in their claim against Formal Holdings Limited.
- Acted for the AA in a successful strike out of a claim for £60m that reached the Court of Appeal in November 2022. The claimants alleged fraudulent or negligent misrepresentation and/or for breach of contract, in relation to a failed joint venture.
- Represented the Bonhams Group in an £80 million claim which alleged conspiracy, breach of contract and breach of fiduciary duties against 7 defendants, including the Bonhams entities and current and former directors. The claim related to the sale of a collection of vintage cars.
Dispute resolution > Competition litigation Tier 4
The ‘incredibly hardworking‘ group at RPC exhibits varied knowledge of class actions within the retail and technology sectors. Chris Ross leads the team, having broad experience in handling follow-on damages claims, in addition to collective proceedings. Counsel Melanie Musgrave has vast expertise in merger control and investigation issues, in addition to damages claims; and senior associate Leonia Chesterfield has ‘bags of experience‘ in High Court warrant applications and CMA infringement decisions.Practice head(s):
Chris Ross
Other key lawyers:
Melanie Musgrave; David Cran; Leonia Chesterfield
Testimonials
‘The RPC team thinks creatively about issues to find the best solution for clients. They listen carefully and are transparent in their reasoning.’
‘Incredibly hardworking, they know their client’s cases backwards.’
‘David Cran is a good leader who can see the bigger picture.’
‘Leonia Chesterfield is a very good solicitor with bags of experience.’
‘Chris Ross is very on the ball.’
‘Well-resourced and seriously engaged with an ability to speak the language of international technology clients and manage matters in the English courts.’
‘David Cran is an exceptional communicator who is very engaged with the detail and able to keep a large team motivated.’
Key clients
Frasers Group plc
LINK Scheme
LINPAC
NHS Scotland & DHSSPS and RHSCB in Northern Ireland
Soft Construct
Work highlights
- Advising Google on its defence of collective proceedings pursued by the class representative on behalf of millions of UK consumers in relation to Play Store fees.
- Advising Google on its ongoing global dispute with Epic Games (Fortnite) regarding Play Store billing.
- Representing NHS bodies in Scotland and Northern Ireland in an action for competition law damages brought against Servier, the manufacturer of the cardiovascular drug Perindopril.
Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 4
RPC's international arbitration group is co-led by Shai Wade, a May 2022 partner hire from Stephenson Harwood , who is an expert in the upstream oil and gas and energy sectors, as well as joint venture, shareholder and partnership claims, and cases involving IT, telecoms, construction, and mining; and the 'outstanding' Jonathan WoodPractice head(s):
Shai Wade; Jonathan Wood
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Already a dominant presence in the international arbitration sphere, RPC was bolstered by the addition of Shai Wade who partners up with Tatiana Minaeva. The pair are incredibly impressive and a real force to be reckoned with.’
‘Shai Wade has an excellent reputation.‘
‘Tatiana Minaeva is superb and real arbitration specialist. She is ably supported by Adam Forster, who is one of the best senior associates around.’
‘Jonathan Wood is outstanding. A calm, authoritative and extremely likeable character.’
‘A firm which has really made efforts to grow its international arbitration offering in recent years through careful lateral hiring and impressive organic growth.’
‘Kirtan Prasad is well regarded for international arbitration, especially India matters.‘
‘Paul Baker – collaborative, and with an eye to furthering client objectives.’
‘RPC has considerable experience across the full range of international arbitration disputes. A tight unit that is sensible and very pleasant to deal with.’
Key clients
Kout Food Group
Hua She Asset Management
OMV
Work highlights
- Representing Kout Food Group in a dispute over the alleged ongoing use of the brand of a restaurant operating in the Middle East.
- Acting for Hua She Asset Management (Shanghai) in the enforcement in England of a £21m arbitral award made by the Shanghai International Economic and Trade Commission in October 2020.
Dispute resolution > Professional discipline Tier 4
RPC‘s 'professional discipline team has the resources and skills to handle the biggest cases'. The team advises on the regulatory aspects of legal services, insolvency practitioners, architects and accountants. Graham Reid 'stands out', while Robert Morris provides additional partner-level support. Senior associate Emma Wherry specialises in construction-related professional discipline.Practice head(s):
Graham Reid; Robert Morris
Other key lawyers:
Emma Wherry; Davina Given; Ben Goodier; Eleanor Kilner; Tom Wild
Testimonials
‘Graham Reid stands out head and shoulders above his peers.’
‘Eleanor Kilner comes across as very capable, driven, and yet approachable.’
‘RPC’s professional discipline team has the resources and skills to handle the biggest cases in this field.’
‘Fee earners with the knowledge and understanding to provide high-quality representation that is informed by a good appreciation of the underlying dispute.’
‘Emma Wherry – clever and on top of the detail, but also exceptionally good at working out what needs to be done and identifying the best person to do it. Her project management of cases is fantastic, and the clients really like her.’
‘Davina Given is immensely hardworking and on top of the minute details of every case. She is unflappable, calm and has a fantastic demeanour with clients.’
‘A lot of bench strength and really deep understanding of the relevant issues in solicitors’ negligence and regulatory enforcement cases.’
‘Tom Wild is a standout senior associate who combines deep technical expertise with a client-friendly approach. He sees the points others miss and can untangle the knottiest legal problems.’
Work highlights
- Acted for a former KPMG employee, who was investigated by the FRC regarding allegations that he (and others) misled the FRC in relation to information provided for the FRC’s review of KPMG’s final audit of Carillion.
Industry focus > Life sciences and healthcare Tier 4
The broad practice at RPC assists clients with a broad array of issues, including inquests, risk management work, and insurance coverage matters. Practice head Dorothy FlowerPractice head(s):
Dorothy Flower
Key clients
Sonablate
Allied World Assurance Company
Work highlights
- Representing Sonablate before the National Institute for Healthcare and Excellence.
- Assisting Allied World Assurance Company with the review and analysis of its clinical trial policy wording.
Insurance > Personal injury: defendant Tier 4
RPC‘s general liability team is led by 'down to earth operator' Gavin Reese, who splits his time between London and Bristol. Mamata Dutta is recommended for her ‘mastery of every case’. The team specialises in difficult and complex cases, often involving life-changing injuries including brain injury and amputation, and has specific sector expertise regarding industrial workplaces, new technological industries and claims from incidents on TV and film sets.Practice head(s):
Gavin Reese
Other key lawyers:
Fiona Hahlo; Steven Aitken; Mamata Dutta
Testimonials
‘Gavin Reese is quality. A down to earth operator with an easy charm which conceals his market knowledge. Underestimate him at your peril. Fiona Hahlo is hard working and efficient, she gets great results for her clients.’
‘Well respected full-service defendant team. Has the strength and depth to deal with the entire spectrum of litigated cases in this arena – including catastrophic and complex cases.’
‘Mamata Dutta is particularly well known for dealing with cases involving complex medical causation. I’ve benefited from her conscientious case preparation.’
‘Gavin Reese has excellent negotiation skills – always gets favourable results in JSMs and mediations. Well regarded in the insurance sector.’
‘RPC has a strong PI team, which is able to cover the full range of industrial and catastrophic accidents. Outstanding partners lead a strong team of associates in order to provide a premier service to their insurance clients.’
‘Gavin Reese has immense experience and tactical judgment. Always adds real value to every case in which he is instructed. An outstanding lawyer.’
‘Mamata Dutta is brilliant in her mastery of every case and beloved by her clients for always providing the best case strategy.’
‘Steven Aitken is a hugely capable solicitor. Combines forensic attention to detail with clear and cogent advice which keeps him in huge demand by top insurers.’
Key clients
AXA XL
Work highlights
- Acting for a French cycling organisation and its insurer in connection with the death of a participant in an elite amateur cycle event.
- Acting for an arboricultural company which had carried out a survey of a tree months before it fell, causing severe injuries.
- Acted for a contractor, securing a favourable agreement on liability following traumatic injury of an employee while using a tree-stump grinder on a construction site.
Private client > Art and cultural property Tier 4
Under the leadership of Davina Given, the practice at RPC is growing and carving out a specialism in art-related disputes and other matters involving art and technology. It continues to advise clients on the sale of NFTs, and assists clients in negotiating licence agreements. Given frequently handles a myriad of disputes on issues such as provenance, attribution and authenticity.Practice head(s):
Davina Given
Testimonials
‘Davina Given is very experienced indeed in art market litigation, and brings particular qualities to cases in this field – deep knowledge of culture and history, a brilliant brain, natural calmness and patience, and complete commitment to the client’s cause’.
‘RPC’s art and cultural property team have deep links with clients in the field’.
‘Davina Given is enthusiastic about art and cultural property law, hard working and with particular knowledge in the area’.
‘Fantastic team – good with strategy and the client, the law, very diligent and all members have a real interest in art law’.
‘Davina Given was a pleasure to work with and very committed. She produced high quality work and maintained composure even under pressure with tight court deadlines. She has a real interest in art law. Excellent client-handling skills – sensitive and perceptive’.
‘Davina Given is the full package: seriously clever, great attention to detail, pragmatic and very experienced. One of the very best in the area’.
‘Davina Given is a tireless worker. I was impressed with her attentiveness and prompt responses. Davina is very smart, kind, thoughtful, a good listener, and always gracious’.
‘Davina Given is extremely thorough, always interested, and had a good command of the subject (the art market, art market practices, and the specifics of the case) and the material (case documents, etc.)’.
Key clients
The Bonhams group
Trustees of the Wemyss Heirlooms Trust
Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 4
RPC is entrusted by a range of corporate occupiers with headquarter establishments, office moves and portfolio management, in addition to sales and leasebacks. Elizabeth Alibhai leads the team’s Bristol and London offices and acts for developers in the residential and retail sectors; Alibhai's recent work highlights include Frasers’ acquisition of Coventry Building Society Arena. Catherine Young advises on the property aspects of corporate and finance transactions, while Ben Malone is another key contact in the group. Partners Arash Rajai and Jon Ely joined from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP and Capital Law, respectively.Practice head(s):
Elizabeth Alibhai
Other key lawyers:
Catherine Young; Ben Malone; Arash Rajai; Jon Ely; Sukh Ahark
Testimonials
‘Liz Alibhai genuinely understands and cares about our business, makes seamless introductions to specialist colleagues and is always motivated to support and add value.’
‘I have been dealing with Ben Malone, as well as Elizabeth Alibhai. I was able to get exactly what I need, and their communication is always very clear.’
‘They have been very thorough and have all the resources we need. Also, they were very prompt with responses to queries.’
Key clients
Frasers Group
Lockguard Limited
St Modwen
AVIVA
Hasib Holding Company Establishment
Howden Group
Kout Food Group
Triumph Group
Shepherd Neame
NASUWT
Downing LLP
Adderstone Group
Berkshire Hathaway
Office Space in Town
Essity
Dellner Woodville
Mosaic Insurance
Darabase
Work highlights
- Acting for Frasers Group on its acquisition of the Coventry Building Society Arena.
- Advised Office Space in Town on acquiring full ownership of its portfolio of four high-end City based serviced office blocks at New Broad Street.
- Assisted Darabase on their project to set up a property digital rights registry.
Real estate > Construction: contentious Tier 4
RPC provides comprehensive advice for various players in the construction supply chain, from contractors to quantity surveyors. Their expert guidance extends to a diverse range of infrastructure and energy risks. Team leader Alan Stone manages disputes across arbitration, adjudication, and litigation, while Alexandra Anderson specialises in defending claims against surveyors and valuers. Tom Green excels in payment notice and defects disputes and provides guidance on broader construction market aspects. The team has seen the addition of Arash Rajai in August 2022, from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP.Practice head(s):
Alan Stone
Other key lawyers:
Tom Green; Alexandra Anderson; Oliver Bulleid; Ella Crawley-Till
Testimonials
‘Quite simply, the best contentious construction team in the market.’
‘Alan Stone is hugely knowledgeable and is definitely someone you want on your side, rather than against you. Tom Green is extremely thorough and has an encyclopaedic knowledge of anything relating to cladding.’
‘This firm has an excellent level of expertise, and the people I have dealt with are a pleasure to work with.’
‘Very strong associates.’
‘Oliver Bulleid and Ella Crawley-Till are very responsive and thorough.’
Key clients
Berkley Homes
Buro Happold
Ridge and Partners LLP
NHBC
St James Group Limited
Laing O’Rourke Wales & West Limited
Laing O’Rourke PLC
McLaren Construction (UK) Limited
Orchard Plaza Management Company Limited
Vinci Construction UK Limited
Integrity International Group
Work highlights
- Advised BDL on a £13.2million claim concerning alleged health and fire safety defects in the external walls of a student accommodation development by building owner, against Berkeley and its cladding subcontractor, BDL Group Limited.
- Instructed to defend a claim brought against NHBC by a number of companies within the Morris Group, including Morris Homes. At its heart was an allegation that the NHBC wrongly oversaw the undertaking of very significant remedial works to a development, at a cost of circa £4.5m.
Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 5
Leveraging its widely-recognised expertise in the insurance arena, RPC frequently advises on the interpretation and implication of regulatory reform, while continuing to bolster its payments, consumer credit and general financial services regulatory practice. Counting insurance companies and brokers among his key roster of clients, team leader Matthew Griffith is also noted for his expertise in post-Brexit-related mandates. Of counsel Whitney Simpson is another key contact in the group.Practice head(s):
Matthew Griffith
Other key lawyers:
Whitney Simpson; Jonathan Charwat
Testimonials
‘The team are extremely professional, knowledgeable, and I have every confidence in them, they work well together as a team.’
‘Jonathan Charwat is an excellent representative of RPC. Jonathan has helped us with a variety of topics this year and can always be relied upon to be professional and help us to find an appropriate solution.’
Key clients
LINK Scheme
Frasers Group
Aviva
Integra
AIG
Inigo Managing Agent
Markel
Hiscox
QBE
RSA
Work highlights
- Acting as sole legal adviser to LINK Scheme.
- Provided general regulatory advice throughout the year to Inigo Managing Agent Limited, a new managing agent at Lloyd’s of London, including broker remuneration advice and assistance and advice in respect of Inigo’s insurance distribution agreements.
- Acting for Markel in carrying out reviews of over 60 distribution agreements and over 120 insurance policies.
Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £250m) Tier 5
‘Responsive and engaged‘, RPC‘s sector coverage most notably spans the insurance, tech, and financial services sectors. Practice head David Wallis is a prolific adviser with considerable market experience in sponsor and management-side work, handling sales, acquisitions, and investment deals. James Mee is particularly noted for his capabilities in the insurance sector, while Jeremy Cunningham’s wide-ranging cross-border practice covers insurance, engineering, and film production. Jeremy Cunningham is praised by clients for his financial services and insurance acumen.Practice head(s):
David Wallis
Other key lawyers:
James Mee; Jeremy Cunningham; Chris Brierley
Testimonials
‘The team is responsive and engaged. Chris Brierley will handle queries and calls directly without the need involve a broader team, but when a larger team is required, he is very prompt in delivering.’
‘Chris Brierley is responsive, has excellent judgement and clearly explains technical legal matters to non-legal investors.’
‘James Mee is excellent – one of our favourite people to work with.’
‘Very capable and thoughtful team – very commercial and user friendly.’
Key clients
Agribriefing
Asta
Ebury (Santander and Vitruvian-backed)
Axcel
JRJ
Preservation Capital Partners
Keyhaven Capital
Paine Schwartz
Beat Capital Partners
Asahi Kasei
Work highlights
- Advised the management team of Agribriefing on the sale of Agribriefing to Five Arrows Principal Investments and Synova-backed Mintec.
- Advised the management team of Asta Capital on its sale to Davies Group.
- Advised Ebury Partners on the further issuance of shares worth £173m to Santander, and the combination of these shares with a purchase of existing shares.
Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals) Tier 5
Recommended for its ability to defend clients against allegations of tax fraud brought by HMRC and other domestic enforcement agencies, the RPC team is ‘tenacious, innovative, and brilliantly aggressive’. The practice is well equipped to represent individuals from the art, real estate, and extractive industries, with considerable expertise in handling financial crime matters and internal investigations. Adam Craggs and Sam Tate co-head the group; Craggs is an expert on criminal tax prosecutions, while Tate specialises in political financial crime issues. Davina Given concentrates on money laundering and sanctions compliance, while Michelle Sloane focuses on HMRC criminal investigations.Practice head(s):
Adam Craggs; Sam Tate
Other key lawyers:
Davina Given; Michelle Sloane; Alice Kemp
Testimonials
‘Tenacious, innovative and brilliantly aggressive. They are completely unafraid to take novel points, often with great success.’
‘Adam Craggs is calm but brilliantly runs the team. He is a creative lawyer who fights doggedly for his clients.’
‘This is the firm you should go to if you are facing a Revenue criminal or civil investigation or you are or you are on the wrong end of a tax assessment/penalties. This team will fight your corner. They know how the Tax Tribunal works . They are very experienced in seeing off criminal investigations and settling cases.’
‘RPC is an absolutely phenomenal firm. It is second to none in terms of the full service it can offer to large multinational clients, and small clients alike. It has a broad range of specialisms, particularly in tax, where it can offer value for money. It compares more favourably than with other firms principally because of the can-do attitude and responsive nature of the service given to its clients.’
‘Michelle Sloane is a first-rate lawyer in this space. What she does not know in the tax/crime cross-over is not worth knowing. Her clients interests are extremely well protected, and she can ensure that whatever difficulty her client is facing, she will improve their position. She has a strong corporate understanding, and is widely recognised as a leader in her field. She was instructed in the Rangers football raid involving HMRC. She is tremendous. A strategic genius.’
‘The tax and white collar crime team headed by Adam Craggs and with Michelle Sloane as a senior partner, provide exceptional legal advice, investigation services and representation to corporate and individual clients across the board. This specialist team consistently deal with high profile and complex cases, with particular strengths in international business crime and white collar cases. The team are incredibly bright and highly effective at winning cases, applying a no nonsense determined approach. For counsel they provide intensive support which obtains results for clients.’
‘Adam Craggs is a tremendous solicitor and team leader. His legal analysis is superb. He is a masterful tactician, and always remains calm and pragmatic delivering first-class results for his clients. You want Adam on your side.’
‘Michelle Sloane is widely recognised as a leading solicitor in business crime and fraud. She provides outstanding representation to corporate and professional clients. Michelle is an all-round standout performer when advising clients through complex investigations and court proceedings.’
Work highlights
- Act for a former employee of KPMG who has been investigated by the FRC regarding allegations that he (and others) misled the FRC in relation to information provided to it as part of the FRC’s review of KPMG’s last audit of Carillion Plc.
Finance > Bank lending: investment grade debt and syndicated loans Tier 6
RPC's team of 'experts in bank lending' is led by Sukh Ahark, who is known for his 'excellent client and matter management skills'. He works alongside recently promoted partner Edward Colville, who also leads the firm's insurance finance practice. Key client sectors include retail and leisure, technology and insurance - the team has recently been advising AIG on financing arrangements encompassing multiple facilities from six international banks.Practice head(s):
Sukh Ahark
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Experts in bank lending.’
‘Sukh Ahark – a real leader in his field. Excellent client and matter management skills and a trusted expert.’
‘Edward Colville – an truly great up and coming lawyer.’
Key clients
AIG
Frasers Group
Beat Capital Partners Limited
Demica
Ebury Partners
FRP Advisory
Integrity International Group
Angel Care
Beyond Bamboo
Work highlights
- Advising insurance giant AIG on their financing arrangements for the Lloyd’s syndicate.
- Advising Frasers on multiple strategic transactions, from financing on investments and acquisitions to advice on partnerships and business collaborations,
- Advising Zebra on the accession documentation in relation to their previous acquisition of Tiger UK(Midlands) Limited.
Public sector > Administrative and public law Tier 6
RPC handles a diverse range of complex challenges against public bodies, with recent highlights including judicial reviews spanning issues such as the legality of search warrants and powers of arrest, as well as a ground-breaking class action against HMRC’s anti-avoidance powers and pensions law. The practice is headed up by the significantly experienced Adam Craggs, who has particular expertise in challenging the decisions of regulatory and investigative bodies.Practice head(s):
Adam Craggs
Other key lawyers:
Robert Waterson
Testimonials
‘They really fight for their clients. They bring a commercial approach to the litigation that they manage.’
‘The team are very knowledgeable and diligent. The team are able to navigate complexities in a pragmatic fashion which, while involving the clients in the decisions and approach being adopted, does not unnecessarily confuse and complicate things.’
‘Adam Craggs carries an air of authority and calm which is an asset in any situation. He has an enviable ability to cut through the chaff and get to the heart of an issue.’
‘Highly capable team with a wide range of ability.’
Key clients
Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation
Metropolitan International Schools Limited
Newcastle United Football Company Limited
Stephen Hoey and others
Castco Testing Centre Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for Newcastle United Football Club in an HMRC investigation into suspected non-payment of Income Tax, NI Contributions and VAT in respect of agents’ fees paid by NUFC in relation to the transfer of players.
- Acted for Stephen Hoey and a large number of other taxpayers in a judicial review challenge to the way in which HMRC operates certain PAYE provisions to collect tax for certain historic income tax liabilities from employers.
- Successfully defended the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation against a judicial review claim.
Finance > Corporate restructuring & insolvency Tier 8
Led by Finella Fogarty , RPC provides a ‘highly technical and cost-effective’ service to a range of stakeholders, including IPs, on domestic and multi-jurisdictional contentious and non-contentious corporate and personal insolvencies. Leveraging the firm’s overarching longstanding insurance credentials, the team is a natural choice for clients involved in insolvencies in this highly regulated sector. The retail sector is another area of strength, with Tim Moynihan, who is appreciated for his ability to provide ‘comprehensive and efficient advice’, regularly engaged from a distressed M&A and insolvency perspective.Practice head(s):
Finella Fogarty
Other key lawyers:
Paul Bagon; Tim Moynihan; Danielle Bennett
Testimonials
‘They are highly technical and cost-effective.’
‘Tim Moynihan provides comprehensive and efficient advice, and is pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
The Joint Administrators of Vapourcore Retail Limited
Dr Vijay Mallya
LINK
The Joint Trustees of the insolvent estate of a deceased bankrupt
Thomas Miller Group
Frasers Group
Various
FRP
Work highlights
- Advised Frasers Group on its highly publicised pre-pack acquisition of the business and assets of Arena Coventry Limited and all of its subsidiaries (all in administration).
- Advising LINK on all aspects of its resolution planning obligations and arrangements, in conjunction with its regulator (the Bank of England).
- Advising the FRP joint administrators on the pre-packaged administration sale of the business and assets of Mark Harris Furniture, an online furniture retailer and wholesaler.
South West > Insurance > Professional negligence
RPC is experienced in investigating, defending and settling professional negligence claims, where the firm is active on behalf of an enviable client roster that includes global insurers and their insured. Rhian Howell acts as head of the Bristol office and focuses on defending solicitors and barristers against negligence claims. Matters relating to pensions are frequently handled by Rachael Healey, while Ben Goodier is a first point of contact for clients in the construction sector. Will Sefton‘s specialist areas include acting for solicitors and directors.Practice head(s):
Rhian Howell; Will Sefton; Ben Goodie; Robert Morris; Dan Guilfoyle
Other key lawyers:
Rachael Healey; David Allinson; Kirstie Pike; Scott Ashby; Claire Revell
Testimonials
‘A quality group of lawyers with a superb understanding of and reputation within the professional indemnity market.’
‘A sound firm with a strong brand image and great reputation in the market in which they operate.’
‘Will Sefton and Claire Revell are both experts in their field. Their calm and measured response is always appreciated at what can often be quite a troubling time.’
‘The whole team are extremely competent.’
‘A strong regional insurance practice with personable lawyers.’
‘Client-focused team who understand pressures that businesses are under when delivering professional services.’
‘Extremely friendly and approachable, solid reliable commercial advice, sensible.’
‘Friendly and approachable individuals. Supportive, really feel like they are on your side. Particularly Kirstie Pike, Scott Ashby and Will Sefton in Bristol.’
Key clients
Ince Gordon Dadds
Thomas Snell & Passmore
The Bar Mutual
Higgs & Sons, now Higgs LLP
Work highlights
- Defending Reynolds Chartered Surveyors in a claim being brought by a retired valuer relating to two alleged negligent valuations.
- Acted for Thomson Snell & Passmore LLP in a claim against it for negligence, corruption, fraud, material non-disclosure and perjury relating to long-running divorce proceedings.
- Defending a client in the criminal prosecution brought against him in relation to his role as a trustee of a pension scheme, arising out of employer related loans and investments made by the scheme.
RPC > Firm Profile
The firm: At RPC we have a single goal: to help you achieve your ambition. We’ll do this through quality legal advice, knowledge of your market and a deep understanding of you, your business and your goals.
Accredited as Best Legal Adviser every year since 2013, we know the value of building trust and providing a great client service. We specialise in insurance, technology and media, regulatory, commercial and financial disputes and retail and consumer.
You’ll find organisations of all types and size among our clients, including large multinationals, growing corporates, financial institutions and other professional practices. All of them choose RPC for the outcomes we’re known for in contentious and non-contentious matters.
Brilliant lawyers and stellar international service. As a member of the TerraLex global network, we’re connected to more than 600 offices with 19,000 lawyers in over 100 countries. All that as well as the 850 people and 124 partners at our offices in London, Bristol, Hong Kong and Singapore. And as a founding member of Global Access Lawyers, we’re also part of a group of 400 insurance law specialists in 43 offices worldwide.
Principal areas of work
Advertising and marketing: Be noticed for the right reasons. We’ll guide you through the complexities of advertising regulation, data collection/ exploitation, consumer regulation, digital/new media, sponsorship, licensing, agency agreements, UK and international copy clearance and brand-protection strategies.
Banking and financial markets disputes: A conflict-free banking litigation practice, we specialise in investment banking and funds management – particularly the capital markets. We can act against large investment banks and work ‘off-panel’ in disputes between banks where one party’s usual firms are not able to do so.
Civil fraud: If you need to investigate the cause and scope of wrongdoing, mitigate the damage, pursue the wrongdoers and trace the asset, we’re on your side.
Commercial contracts: Get your agreements delivering more. We advise on drafting and negotiating a broad range of industry agreements. These range from the largest outsourcing deals to smaller, yet business-critical, supply contracts and consumer-facing terms and conditions.
Commercial disputes: We know litigation inside out. At any one time, more than half of our lawyers are handling complex, large-scale global disputes.
Competition: Merger control, compliance, cartels, antitrust and competition litigation. We’re here to advise you on all aspects of EU and UK competition law. Whether you’re a claimant or a defendant.
Construction: We defend negligence claims against engineers, architects, designers, contractors, mechanical and electrical engineers, and quantity surveyors. Insurance plays a big part in the management of construction risk. We resolve complex construction disputes cost-effectively.
Corporate/M&A: We will support your growth and development through industry-best corporate transaction advice, be it M&A, private equity investments, refinancing or joint ventures, internationally.
Employment, engagement and equality: Restructuring your business? Realigning your workforce? We’ll advise you on all the employment issues. Such as navigating TUPE and large-scale redundancy programmes, including collective consultation.
Finance: We advise on leveraged and acquisition facilities, to commercial loans and banking facilities, we offer a full range of banking and lending services including all aspects of corporate funding, and support growing corporates, start-ups, funds, and private equity clients.
Insurance and reinsurance: For over 70 years, we’ve been helping insurers achieve their ambitions internationally. From complex claims to high-stakes transactions, our expertise ranges from insurance disputes, coverage, defence and monitoring across all business lines, to recoveries, policy wording and a range of insurance products and services.
IP, technology and outsourcing: Technology drives all businesses. Our dedicated team provides technology-specific advice on intellectual property, outsourcing, data protection, M&A, regulatory matters and dispute resolution.
Media: We are defendant-focused and handle all manner of disputes involving media companies from defamation and privacy complaints, to data protection, contempt and reporting restrictions issues, including advice on content risks to the various press regulators.
Real estate: If you’re looking to acquire new premises, dispose of property or revamp your rental arrangements, talk to us. We act on investment purchases and sales (direct and “wrapper” basis), sales and leasebacks and development projects.
Regulatory: Many of the world’s largest financial, corporate and professional services firms come to us for robust compliance strategies. Our regulatory team can meet your growing needs for joined-up advice across regulatory regimes. We will help you stay compliant and adapt to regulatory change.
Retail: Turn challenges into opportunities with our award-winning retail team. Over 70 people at RPC advise retailers through every stage of their lifecycle. We are a preeminent and long-standing advisor to many of the leading retailers, internationally.
Restructuring and insolvency: The consequences of financial distress and insolvency are far-reaching. Our insolvency team provides expert advice and wide-ranging expertise to everyone affected.
Tax: Our specialist tax lawyers deal with all corporate tax affairs for corporate and commercial transactions; including tax enquiries, tax litigation, criminal investigations/ managing dawn raids and defence of prosecutions for tax fraud.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing partner | James Miller | ||
Senior partner | Oliver Bray | ||
Advertising & Marketing | Oliver Bray | ||
Banking litigation | Tom Hibbert | ||
Commercial disputes | Geraldine Elliott | ||
Competition | Lambros Kilaniotis | ||
Construction | Alan Stone | ||
Corporate/M&A | Karen Hendy | ||
Corporate and Insurance | Matthew Griffith | ||
Corporate and business crime | Sam Tate | ||
Employment, Engagement and Equality | Patrick Brodie & Kelly Thomson | ||
Food & Drink | Ciara Cullen & Ben Mark | ||
Finance | Sukh Ahark | ||
Insurance and reinsurance | Simon Laird | ||
Intellectual property, technology and outsourcing | Jeremy Drew | ||
International arbitration | Jonathan Wood | ||
Media | Keith Mathieson | ||
Real estate | Elizabeth Alibhai | ||
Regulatory | Gavin Reese | ||
Retail | Jeremy Drew & Karen Hendy | ||
Restructuring and insolvency | Paul Bagon & Finella Fogarty | ||
Sports & Entertainment | Jeremy Drew & Josh Charalambous | ||
Tax | Adam Craggs & Ben Roberts |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
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Sukh Ahark | Sukh heads RPC’s banking and finance team and handles a wide variety… | View Profile |
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Elizabeth Alibhai | Partner and head of Real Estate. Elizabeth advises a wide variety of clients including… | View Profile |
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Alexandra Anderson | Alexandra is an insurance lawyer with particular expertise in both construction and… | View Profile |
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Tim Anderson | Corporate Partner: M&A in media; technology and retail sectors; corporate governance. Cases… | View Profile |
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Helen Armstrong | Partner. Helen is an experienced litigator specialising in resolution of complex technology… | View Profile |
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Paul Bagon | Paul is a restructuring and insolvency partner and has extensive experience advising… | View Profile |
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Paul Baker | Legal Counsel. Paul advises London and overseas insurers in the political risk… | View Profile |
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Jon Bartley | Partner Jon Bartley specialises in digital technology and e-commerce, data protection, cybersecurity… | View Profile |
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Will Beck | Will is an Of Counsel in the Restructuring and Insolvency team at… | View Profile |
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Nick Bird | Professional liability defence litigation. Acts for magic circle and leading firms in… | View Profile |
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Rupert Boswall | Partner; commercial litigation and arbitration; corporate and regulatory investigations. | View Profile |
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Oliver Bray | Senior Partner. Oliver is Senior Partner at RPC and a recognised specialist in… | View Profile |
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Richard Breavington | Partner. Richard leads the Cyber & Tech Insurance team. He has been… | View Profile |
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Chris Brierley | A Partner in RPC’s Corporate team, Chris advises clients on strategic corporate… | View Profile |
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Patrick Brodie | Head of RPC’s Employment, Pensions and Incentives practice, Patrick Brodie is often… | View Profile |
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Neil Brown | Partner. Neil is an experienced corporate lawyer, advising on M&A, joint ventures… | View Profile |
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Tim Brown | Partner with specialism in commercial contract disputes and arbitration. Tim has recognised… | View Profile |
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Charles Buckworth | Partner. Charles is an experienced non-contentious technology and outsourcing lawyer within the… | View Profile |
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Tim Bull | Tim is a partner in the Professional and Financial Risks team of… | View Profile |
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Connor Cahalane | Connor is a partner who advises listed and pre-IPO companies on M&A,… | View Profile |
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Jonathan Cary | Jonathan is a Partner specialising in banking and financial markets disputes and… | View Profile |
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Mr James Channo | James is a corporate and business law specialist, who advises on AIM… | View Profile |
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Mr Joshua Charalambous | Josh is a sports, disputes and commercial lawyer, and is a Partner… | View Profile |
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Mr Jonathan Charwat | Jonathan Charwat is a corporate, commercial and regulatory Senior Associate in the… | View Profile |
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Mr Marlon Cohen | Marlon is an experienced commercial lawyer, specialising in complex strategic work for… | View Profile |
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Nigel Collins | Partner, Head of Japan Desk. Nigel is a senior corporate lawyer with extensive… | View Profile |
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Edward Colville | Ed is a Legal Director in the RPC corporate team, specialising in… | View Profile |
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Rupert Cowper-Coles | Partner in the media team, specialising in media litigation, most often in the… | View Profile |
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Adam Craggs | Adam is a partner and head of RPC’s tax disputes group. He… | View Profile |
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David Cran | Partner and Head of IP and Tech. Experienced and commercially focussed, David… | View Profile |
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Mark Crichard | Partner and lead technology lawyer within the IP, technology and outsourcing group.… | View Profile |
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Ciara Cullen | Partner. An IP and technology litigation specialist, Ciara is dual qualified in… | View Profile |
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Jeremy Cunningham | Partner Jeremy Cunningham is a corporate transactional lawyer focused on delivering commercial… | View Profile |
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Georgia Davis | Georgia is a Legal Director in RPC’s IP & Technology group and… | View Profile |
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Jeremy Drew | Partner and Head of RPC’s IP and Technology Group and the Retail… | View Profile |
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Mamata Dutta | Partner. Mamata is a Partner in the General Liability and Medical team.… | View Profile |
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Lucy Dyson | Lucy Dyson is a partner and insurance and reinsurance lawyer who specialises… | View Profile |
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Simon Edwards | Simon is a Partner in RPC’s Commercial team, with over 15 years’… | View Profile |
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Geraldine Elliott | Partner and leader of the commercial disputes group of the firm. Practises… | View Profile |
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Jon Ely | Partner. Jon is a Partner in RPC’s real estate team, advising property… | View Profile |
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Matthew Evans | Of Counsel. Matthew has a broad practice within RPC’s commercial disputes department,… | View Profile |
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Dorothy Flower | Partner specialising in clinical negligence claims, health law advice and representation, and… | View Profile |
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Finella Fogarty | Partner. Finella specialises in advising banks, insolvency practitioners, funds, corporates and all… | View Profile |
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Adam Forster | Specialising in commercial dispute resolution and international arbitration, Adam Forster’s practice encompasses… | View Profile |
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Davina Given | Davina advises corporates, financial institutions and individuals on a range of complex… | View Profile |
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Ben Gold | Partner specialising in directors’ and officers’ liability and financial institutions and professional… | View Profile |
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Simon Goldring | Advises London market insurers on all issues arising out of claims against… | View Profile |
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Tom Green | Partner. Tom typically defends construction professionals, with a particular emphasis on architects,… | View Profile |
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Mr Matthew Griffith | With a wealth of experience gained over more than 20 years, Matthew… | View Profile |
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Jake Hardy | Partner. Experienced banking and financial services litigator, with a particular focus on… | View Profile |
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Simon Hart | Simon is a litigation partner and Head of Financial Disputes. He specialises… | View Profile |
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Daniel Hemming | Daniel is a litigation partner with a particular focus on banking and… | View Profile |
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Karen Hendy | Partner and Head of Corporate. Karen Hendy is an insightful and pragmatic… | View Profile |
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Charlotte Henschen | Charlotte is a Senior Associate in RPC’s Commercial and Banking Litigation Group.… | View Profile |
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Tom Hibbert | Tom Hibbert is Global Head of RPC’s Commercial Disputes practice and a… | View Profile |
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Toby Higginson | Partner. Toby has extensive experience of advising insurers on a variety of… | View Profile |
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Ben Hillman | Legal Director Ben is a litigator with particular expertise in property-related disputes.… | View Profile |
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Mr William Hogarth | A partner in RPC’s transactional and regulatory insurance team, William has over… | View Profile |
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Hettie Homewood | A Senior Associate in RPC’s Commercial, Technology & Outsourcing team, Hettie advises… | View Profile |
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Rhian Howell | Partner Rhian Howell is a leading professional negligence expert with significant experience… | View Profile |
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Genevieve Isherwood | Associate. Genevieve defends medical malpractice and product liability claims and has experience… | View Profile |
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Matthew Jones | Partner. Matthew Jones specialises in high-value UK and cross-border patent disputes, with… | View Profile |
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Paul Joukador | A leading partner in commercial, outsourcing and technology matters who delivers pragmatic… | View Profile |
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Alice Kemp | Alice is a Senior Associate and Employed Barrister with significant trial experience,… | View Profile |
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Lucy Kerr | Lucy Kerr is part of the Regulatory Group and advises clients on… | View Profile |
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Simy Khanna | Simy Khanna is a Partner in the Professional Indemnity team. She specialises… | View Profile |
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Parham Kouchikali | Parham is a litigation partner specialising in banking disputes, financial markets litigation… | View Profile |
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Suzan Kurdi | Of Counsel. A highly versatile lawyer with experience of a broad range… | View Profile |
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Simon Laird | Head of Insurance. Partner dealing with insurance, professional negligence and commercial litigation.… | View Profile |
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Toby Lamarque | Toby is a Managing Consultant in RPC’s Regulatory and White Collar Crime… | View Profile |
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Kate Langley | Senior Associate Kate Langley is part of the Regulatory Group and advises… | View Profile |
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Ben Mark | Ben is a Partner in RPC’s Intellectual Property and Technology group and… | View Profile |
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Keziah Mastin | Keziah is an Associate in RPC’s Tax Disputes, Financial Crime and Regulatory… | View Profile |
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Keith Mathieson | Partner. An expert in defamation and privacy law, Keith Mathieson has been… | View Profile |
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Emily McGregor | Partner. Emily is a Partner in RPC’s corporate team, focussed on delivering… | View Profile |
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Mr James Mee | James Mee is an award-winning transactional lawyer who has been instrumental in… | View Profile |
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James Miller | Managing Partner. An international property and international casualty insurance lawyer by background,… | View Profile |
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Tatiana Minaeva | Partner Tatiana Minaeva specialises in complex international commercial and sovereign arbitrations. She… | View Profile |
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Ms Sian Morgan | Sian Morgan is a Partner in the medical and life sciences team,… | View Profile |
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Karen Morrish | Partner. Karen is a highly regarded insurance lawyer specialising in the defence… | View Profile |
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Sarah Mountain | Partner. Sarah is a Partner in the IP and Technology team. With… | View Profile |
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Tim Moynihan | Partner. Tim provides support and expertise to clients involved in financially distressed… | View Profile |
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Melanie Musgrave | Of Counsel. With experience advising clients across a variety of industries, Melanie… | View Profile |
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Mike Newham | Partner. Mike’s practice focuses on advising London market non-marine insurers on complex… | View Profile |
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Catherine Percy | Partner. Insurance lawyer and commercial litigator. Expertise in property insurance, casualty claims… | View Profile |
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Kirtan Prasad | Associate. Kirtan is a commercial disputes lawyer with a focus on international… | View Profile |
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Tom Purton | Partner. Tom combines over 25 years of experience, business acumen and legal… | View Profile |
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Arash Rajai | Partner. Arash is a Construction & Engineering Partner in RPC’s Real Estate… | View Profile |
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Gavin Reese | Gavin has been advising insurers and corporates for over 30 years. He… | View Profile |
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Graham Reid | Partner who specialises in all aspects of legal services, lawyers and law… | View Profile |
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Ben Roberts | Ben is a partner in the RPC Corporate team. He advises clients on… | View Profile |
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Chris Ross | Partner. Chris Ross is a highly experienced litigator specialising in commercial, banking… | View Profile |
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Toby Savage | Partner. Toby is a dispute resolution and litigation lawyer based in London. He… | View Profile |
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Victoria Sherratt | Victoria Sherratt is head of RPC’s UK Property Team and is one… | View Profile |
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Ms Whitney Simpson | Whitney Simpson is an Of Counsel who specialises in non-contentious consumer finance… | View Profile |
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Michelle Sloane | Partner. Michelle Sloane specialises in the resolution of tax disputes and white… | View Profile |
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Mr Harry Smith | Harry is a Senior Associate in RPC’s Tax Disputes team. He advises… | View Profile |
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Laura Stocks | Partner specialising in defending claims against leading law firms and other professionals in… | View Profile |
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Alan Stone | Partner. Alan is an insurance lawyer specialising in construction disputes and professional… | View Profile |
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Felicity Strong | Felicity Strong is a Partner in the Construction team. Felicity specialises in… | View Profile |
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Mr Sam Tate | An expert in white-collar crime, Sam Tate is a partner with extensive… | View Profile |
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Kelly Thomson | Partner. Kelly advises on complex international and national employment matters, with particular… | View Profile |
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Mr Alex Vakil | Partner. An experienced litigator and solicitor-advocate with a particular focus on media,… | View Profile |
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Naomi Vary | Partner. Naomi Vary specialises in resolving political risk and trade credit disputes. She… | View Profile |
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Mr Shai Wade | Shai Wade is a Partner and Head of International Arbitration at RPC.… | View Profile |
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Gary Walkling | Position: Partner specialising in onshore and offshore losses and liabilities of all… | View Profile |
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David Wallis | Head of private equity. Corporate partner with particular expertise in private equity,… | View Profile |
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Robert Waterson | Robert is a highly experienced regulatory disputes lawyer specialising in tax disputes,… | View Profile |
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James Wickes | Partner in RPC’s insurance group; specialising in financial risks. Advises London market… | View Profile |
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Alan Williams | Commercial disputes partner with a particular focus on banking and finance disputes.… | View Profile |
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Tania Williams | Partner. An experienced lawyer advising both customers and suppliers on a broad… | View Profile |
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Leigh Williams | Partner Leigh Williams is a commercial dispute resolution lawyer who deals in… | View Profile |
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Nigel Wilson | Nigel is a senior lawyer, Of Counsel, specialising in IT, technology projects,… | View Profile |
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Mr Alex Wilson | Alex Wilson is a highly experienced media lawyer and litigator, dealing with… | View Profile |
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Mr Jonathan Wood | Jonathan Wood has deep rooted experience supporting clients in a wide number… | View Profile |
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Dan Wyatt | Dan Wyatt is an experienced commercial litigator with particular expertise in complex,… | View Profile |
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Jonathan Wyles | Legal Director specialising in claims against professionals – legal, financial and construction. | View Profile |
Solicitor Profiles
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Rathi Thiagamoorthy | Partner. Rathi is a general commercial litigator who has acted on a… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 93 Number of other UK fee-earners : 254Memberships
Terralex NetworkDiversity
At RPC, people are at the heart of everything that we do. And that is critical to our success.
We’ve put into place a number of initiatives and development programmes to not only support our people as they progress through their careers, but to also ensure that our population and our culture is as reflective of society as possible.
Internally, our all-encompassing allies network, allies@RPC, spans our UK and Asia offices and underpins our eight I&D networks (we call them “Work Streams”) covering gender, ethnicity, disability, social mobility, faith, mental health, LGBT+ and caring responsibilities. The firm runs a particular Work Stream spotlight every six months. Meanwhile, RPC RAIN, the firm’s LGBT+ network, spans the firm’s London and Bristol offices and supports and advocates for the LGBT+ community (both within the firm and externally).
Externally, we partner with a number of different networks and organisations, including the 30% Club, Cityparents, Stonewall, Business Disability Forum, Aspiring Solicitors and SEO. We are also a signatory of the Race at Work Charter, the Law Society’s Women in Law Pledge, the Mindful Business Charter and Rare’s Race Fairness Commitment.
We also have an established CSR Taskforce, our governing body overseeing our three separate Work Streams for Pro Bono, Charity & Community and Environment.
Our Pro Bono Work Stream, which is made up of members from across our four offices, focuses on working with a range of underprivileged groups, financial crime and student pro bono outreach and training. Our lawyers also volunteer their time and expertise on a range of other projects including Launch It, Justice Without Borders and Liberty Advice Line.
They anticipate there will be more requests for pro bono support later in the year and are considering whether there is appetite to support or join an additional pro bono focused project in an area significantly impacted by Covid-19, eg legal advice for the newly homeless or those being removed from rented accommodation.
Our Charity & Community Work Stream have narrowed down a proposed shortlist of new charity partnerships for our London office, for consideration by our Executive Committee, following which it will be put out to the firm for a vote. The Work Stream have previously been organising charitable fundraising on an ad hoc basis, arranging for the firm to participate in initiatives such as Jeans for Genes and the National Macmillan Coffee Morning. Our Bristol office has partnered with Duchenne UK and have participated in a number of fundraising activities over the past year – including a lockdown version of the ‘Duchenne Dash’ (a 300km cycle ride from London to Paris) and an Insurance Partner dyeing her hair pink to raise money for the charity.
The Environment Work Stream have teamed up with the Planet Mark which has carried out a review of our practices and has produced a report for us with recommendations on additional things the firm can do to minimise its environmental impact. The Work Stream are in the process of considering the findings, actions and next steps.
Student (Future Lawyers )
The Legal 500 Future Lawyers Verdict
RPC’s standout features are a ‘big disputes practice which operates across a range of sectors’, ‘a specialism in insurance law’, and ‘the tech and media clients it works with, and its strategy of developing this as one of its core pillars’. And beyond the work, a ‘reputation for very friendly and approachable lawyers’ prevails. One respondent explains: ‘I worked at RPC as a paralegal and really valued the people and the culture – I decided I would not want to train anywhere else’. Colleagues ‘genuinely care about you as an individual and your development as a trainee’. A smaller intake means ‘increased access to higher-quality work and more responsibility’. What’s more, the work/life balance is ‘great; supervisors usually encourage us to log off at a reasonable time in the evening’. RPC is a Future Lawyers Winner for supervisor approachability and work-from-home policy, which is ‘very flexible’ and is considered one of the best things about the firm. There is ‘always a social, training opportunity or diversity & inclusion initiative going on, and people from across the firm (from lawyers to business services) are encouraged to get involved’. It’s not all roses at RPC though: ‘the firm seems to be a bit split’ as 'the work, people and general attitude differs quite a bit from team to team’ according to some respondents. Other complaints are that the ‘remuneration arguably lags behind where the market is at right now’ and that the ‘benefits and expenses policies aren’t as generous as at other places’. Best moments include ‘going to court to attend a successful strike-out hearing on a matter I had worked on’, ‘attending two mediations in the first few weeks of my seat’ and ‘going on secondment to Meta’. Worst moments were ‘a period of back-to-back trials which warranted very long and stressful hours’ and ‘a lull in work in the industry overall, meaning that I had nothing to do for a couple of months. That caused very low motivation’. For ‘high-end work’, a ‘friendly culture’ and a ‘good work/life balance’, consider RPC.Legal Briefings
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Employment in Hong Kong
Although Hong Kong’s employment laws are relatively straight forward and similar to the UK, there are a number of unique provisions that companies hiring workers should be aware of. We spoke with the employment team at RPC to understand more. What is the importance of employment status in Hong Kong? Whether a worker is an … -
New building safety requirements
The Building Safety Act 2022 (the Act) is the central plank in the government’s response to the Grenfell Tower disaster. The Act was enacted with the aim of improving the standard of buildings in England and securing the safety of people in or about those buildings, with a particular focus on fire safety. -
Financial crime: legislative predictions for the year ahead
2022 proved to be another unprecedented year. It began with the creation of further and increasingly complex sanctions against Russia which set in motion a number of other legal and policy initiatives to combat kleptocracy. The coupling of extreme economic and political climates and the constantly evolving threats from financial crime also served to feed …
Comparative Guides
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United Kingdom: Capital Markets
Published: July 2023
Authors: Connor Cahalane
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Capital Markets laws and regulations applicable in United Kingdom.
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Hong Kong: Data Protection & Cybersecurity
Published: April 2023
Authors: Jonathan CromptonFlora Leung
This country-specific Q&A provides an overview of Data Protection & Cybersecurity laws and regulations applicable in Hong Kong.
- Corporate and commercial > Commercial contracts
- Industry focus > Retail and consumer
- Risk advisory > Corporate governance
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Digital content & social
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Theatre, publishing and other media
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Reputation management
- Insurance > Professional negligence
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Customs and excise
- Corporate and commercial > VAT and indirect tax
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil
- Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail
- Dispute resolution > Tax litigation and investigations
- Employment > Health and safety
- Industry focus > TMT
- Insurance > Insurance and reinsurance litigation
- Insurance > Insurance: corporate and regulatory
- Insurance > Product liability: defendant
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media: Advertising & marketing
- Employment > Health and safety
Firm Rankings
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Gaming and betting
- Employment > Employers
- Insurance > Clinical negligence: defendant
- Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity
- Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates)
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport
- Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious
- Corporate and commercial > M&A: Lower Mid-Market Deals, £100m-£750m
- Corporate and commercial > Partnership
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: premium
- Dispute resolution > Competition litigation
- Dispute resolution > International arbitration
- Dispute resolution > Professional discipline
- Industry focus > Life sciences and healthcare
- Insurance > Personal injury: defendant
- Private client > Art and cultural property
- Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers
- Real estate > Construction: contentious
- Corporate and commercial > Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory
- Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £250m)
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals)
- Finance > Bank lending: investment grade debt and syndicated loans
- Public sector > Administrative and public law
- South West > Insurance > Professional negligence