Helena Berman > Stephenson Harwood > London, England > Lawyer Profile

Stephenson Harwood‘s team works together with the firm’s non-contentious, private wealth, contentious trusts, and regulatory teams to assist clients with the full spectrum of pensions dispute resolution. Headed by Helena Berman, the ‘all-round excellent‘ practice is experienced in construction and rectification applications, FCA investigations, and moral hazard cases. Jenny McKeown is particularly well-known for her work with insurers, whilst May 2023-promoted partner Chris Edwards-Earl, who is lauded by clients as a ‘very impressive litigation lawyer‘, is a key contact for RPI and CPI disputes. Associate Maria Chami is recommended for her work in professional negligence cases in a professional context.

‘This is a supremely impressive team’ at Stephenson Harwood, comments one client. ‘They are led from the top by very strong, hands-on leaders and the strength and depth amongst the juniors is superb’. Jenny McKeown ‘has become the Grande Dame of the contentious private client world.’ It predominantly acts for ultra-high-net-worth entrepreneurs and business owners and their families, as well as trustees from around the globe. Its focus is on the most complex and high-value trust and family disputes, and the team has continued to expand its focus into the Asian market. The group also excels in advising domestic dynastic families. Helena Berman had another strong year advising on various substantial contentious trusts disputes. Peter Gillis is also a key figure.

Stephenson Harwood has an ‘excellent team which is fully committed to obtaining the best outcomes for their clients.’ The firm takes both claimant and defendant work and boasts a strong client roster, including KPMG, Deloitte, and BDO. Kate Cordery, ‘just the person you want to have by your side’, heads the practice alongside Roland Foord, who has deep experience in the professional services and fine art sectors. Helena Berman ‘combines technical expertise with dedication and supreme commercial judgement’ and has over twenty-five years of experience in both the claimant and defendant side of professional negligence. Adam Culy is another name to note.