Withers LLP > London, England > Firm Profile

Withers LLP
20 Old Bailey
LONDON
EC4M 7AN
England

Living Wage

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 1

A ‘fantastic firm with quality from top to bottom’, Withers LLP is ‘very well placed to deal with commercial disputes’. The sizeable practice represents family offices, HNW individuals and large corporate entities in multi-jurisdictional disputes, including asset recovery and enforcement matters, and contract, company and financial services disputes. The team is also highly experienced in disputes involving fraud, white-collar crime, professional negligence, insurance, and insolvency. It is additionally experienced in challenging decisions through judicial review claims. Company disputes specialist Peter Wood is global dispute resolution CEO and the ‘excellent’ Stephen Ross is civil fraud head. Roberto Moruzzi is an expert in domestic and international contractual disputes, mis-selling claims, fraud and asset tracing and Andrew Wass is also experienced in financial mis-selling work. The practice further showcases Eleni Polycarpou, who acts in commercial litigation claims alongside her commercial arbitration work, commercial disputes practitioner Sinead Harris, and financial services, banking and corporate litigation expert Henry Farris. Lesley Timms is experienced in contractual and shareholder disputes, and fraud and asset recovery matters. ‘Great strategistTatiana Menshenina is a specialist in disputes involving Russia, Ukraine and the wider CIS region. Daniel GoreJoshua Swift and Ruzin Dagli are also experienced litigators.

Practice head(s):

Peter Wood

Testimonials

Withers is a fantastic firm with quality from top to bottom. They have a strong international presence and are very well placed to deal with commercial disputes. Strongly recommended!’

‘Knowledgeable, on top of issues, thorough, responsive, respectful, and diplomatic. Punctual and will send follow-up chasers. The team is also multilingual, and incredibly efficient at managing very difficult time differences. They also have cross-subject expertise, which is very important, and they all operate very effectively.’

‘Very effective litigators with a collaborative approach. Partners and associates work well across multiple offices. Communication is excellent, and there is real depth of knowledge and experience. ’

‘Tatiana Menshenina is a great strategist. She never loses sight of the bigger picture and is extremely knowledgeable about particular issues that can arise in connection with Russia and Ukraine-related disputes (including sanctions).’

A standout partner is Lesley Timms who is very competent and a pleasure to work with.

‘Eleni Polycarpou is a fabulous strategist and incredible manager of very complicated global litigation – works very quickly in fast-moving cases.’

‘Stephen Ross is excellent. He is very experienced in fraud claims, and maintains a very calm head in challenging moments.’

‘Daniel Gore is definitely one to watch. Knowledgeable and committed, he drives cases forward. Ruzin Dagli is a commercial litigator, who is thorough and incisive and very well versed in procedure. She works all hours to get a result.’

Key clients

Blackmoor Investment Partners

The Family (Holdings)

The Family (Fellowship)

The Family (Consigliere)

The Family (SPV-III)

The Family (SPV-III BIS)

The Family (SPV-III TER)

The Family (Global Godfathers)

Church Bay Trust Company

Transomas

Transomas Investments

Whitechurch Lane

Decisive Capital Management

Barrowfen Properties

Der Mond Oil

Locafrique Holdings

Athena Capital

WRM

Cobaltair (in liquidation)

EUR

Prequin Holdings

Preqin

Valhalla Ventures

Employment > Senior executives Tier 1

Boasting ‘unrivalled experience of the very senior executive market‘, Withers LLP is extremely skilled in a range of senior executive employment matters, especially corporate reshuffling. Meriel Schindler heads up the group and is a key port of call for senior executives seeking advice on moving jobs, the negotiation of their service agreements and crisis situations. The group is ably supported by Elaine Aarons, who has wide-ranging sector expertise; Claire Christy, who manages complex exits and negotiations of settlement terms; James Hockin, who is experienced in disciplinary investigations; employment litigation expert Melissa Paz; Hugh More, who focuses on the contentious work; and Lisa Lewinsohn, a key contact for clients in the financial services space.

Practice head(s):

Meriel Schindler

Testimonials

‘I found the practice to be extremely professional. It certainly lives up to its reputation. Clearly it is more expensive than local firms but the service, experience and response you get cannot be faulted. The differentiator for me were my contacts – the partners who I worked with were both highly skilled but also sensitive to the issues which were overwhelming at times.’

‘Claire Christy was my key partner. She is detail orientated, and highly skilled in clarifying the route through sone complex issues. In addition to her competency, she is also uniquely thoughtful, sensitive, and totally dedicated to supporting me in whatever way required. I feel very grateful to have found her – she has helped me through an incredibly difficult time.’

‘Very efficient in dealing with all aspects of legal issues. Easy access to different specialists if needed.’

‘Melissa Paz gained a thorough yet rapid understanding of my situation and objectives, wasting no billable hours on superfluous information. She provided an outstanding service which left me feeling protected at every stage. She was engaging, and there was a real sense of care and understanding which left me feeling that I would not hesitate to recommend her for any employment-related matter.’

‘Strong knowledge and experience of senior personnel departures from financial services firms.’

‘James Hockin is responsive and creative.’

‘They have unrivalled experience of the very senior executive market, and they do respondent (employer) work.  All to an extremely high standard.’

‘Elaine Aarons is an exceptionally gifted lawyer. She and her team and fellow partners always go above and beyond. They are accessible, constructive and clear.’

Key clients

Gillian Tett OBE

Stuart Kirk

Max Lewis

Diego de Giorgi

Jo Sykes

Work highlights

Private client > Agriculture and estates Tier 1

Under the joint leadership of Bertie Hoskyns-Abrahall and Matthew Woods, the stellar team at Withers LLP acts for over 130 landed estates across England and Wales. These clients range from historic landowners to successful individuals from around the world. It is also increasingly acting for buyers who are purchasing rural land for rewilding purposes. Another growth area is advising clients who are looking at carbon capture opportunities and biodiversity offsetting. The team is well-regarded for its ability to advise on all aspects of rural property transactions. Edward Jarron plays a pivotal role in the department, frequently acting for national and international private individuals, family offices, and corporate clients. David Holland is recommended for his work with various individuals, trusts, and companies on the acquisition and disposal of rural property.

Practice head(s):

Bertie Hoskyns-Abrahall; Matthew Woods

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Large team with great experience.’

‘Good experience and practical knowledge of the subject and the law.’

‘Leading the way in the rural sector, with a deep understanding of country property. Offer confident, competent advice, with a pragmatic approach to issues and they look for solutions rather than problems.’

‘Bertie Hoskyns-Abrahall is an outstanding professional with a calm, highly intelligent approach to all legal matters. Always easy to recommend Bertie to clients who want the highest levels of service and advice.’

‘Very technical, in-depth knowledge of their field providing truly expert advice. Providing practical solutions is a strong point. ’

‘David Holland is very responsive, with an excellent grasp of the practical application of his advice. A good sounding board.’

‘Matthew Woods is very well respected and astute. An excellent private client advocate.’

Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 1

The ‘attentiveChris Priestley heads a ‘very experienced’ team at Withers LLP, which is lauded for its ‘pragmatic support and advice across a wide range of issues’. The practice acts for many of the largest operating charities in the country, and is a leading firm nationwide in advising NHS charities. Another key strength is its considerable expertise in strategy and governance matters, and it frequently engages at a senior level with the Charity Commission. Given its international reach, it is regularly instructed on charity matters spanning multiple jurisdictions. Philip Reed advises charities, not-for-profits, and philanthropists on a wide range of charity law matters, with a particular specialism in the education and arts sector. Alison Paines is vastly experienced in advising charities and other non-profit bodies, and those who contract with or donate to them. Roger Waite, who was promoted to the partnership in July 2024, works with all types of charities, foundations, and non-profits on an array of charity law, governance, fundraising, and regulatory matters. Amy Carter and Emma Flower are both well-regarded.

Practice head(s):

Chris Priestley

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The standout partner here is Chris Priestley. We often describe him as our ‘phone a friend’ in times of need! He goes the extra mile to fully understand the needs of his clients and to provide practical advice and solutions to complex problems.’ 

‘A stand-out associate is Amy Carter. Amy is very diligent and highly organised and is able to deliver at the highest level. She is very approachable and attentive.’

‘The team bring together a range of disciplines, all of high calibre, that means we have excellent advice on tap across the range of issues with which we are concerned. The pragmatic but authoritative approach of the team is reassuring and instils confidence.’

‘Philip Reed is just great! He can always be relied upon to provide sound advice, quickly and sensitively. He is always willing to be available as a sounding board, to help check understandings and to flag up issues that need greater attention. His advice has always been excellent.’ 

‘We have enjoyed working with Hugo Walford and Alison Paines and found their advice very helpful.’

‘Chris Priestley has fantastic knowledge of the voluntary sector. Hugh More has great knowledge in employment law and is brilliant at translating this into pragmatic solutions which work for people and the organisation.’

‘The unique experience of very complex legacy and probate cases involving charities is notable. The innovation includes the global team who can operate on global charity estates, whilst advising on charity law specific to each country.’

‘The standout lawyer is Alison Paines, who is simply excellent. Philip Reed, Hugo Walford and Roger Waite are also very good.’

Key clients

British Refugee Council

Omaze

NHS Charities Together

Cancer Research UK

British Red Cross Society

Castle Howard

Tate

RSPCA

NCVO

NHS Charities Together

Work highlights

  • Supporting NHS Charities Together with the work flowing from its £150m Covid appeal and supporting on a range of fundraising, charity law, and NHS issues.
  • Advised Omaze on its ground-breaking fundraising partnerships with a range of UK charities which have raised £34m for good causes.

Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1

Withers LLPis at the top of the tree in terms of private client work and trust related matters. It has a wealth of experienced lawyers in its ranks and a well-earned reputation for being very client focused and diligent’. It has ‘great strength in depth in its lawyer bench’. Led by Suzanne Todd, it has continued to attract a variety of complex and high-value cases from around the globe. The entire team is adept at handling cross-border and complicated trusts, estate, inheritance, and Court of Protection disputes. It has a solid grounding in charity legacy disputes, and in domestic work too. Paul Hewitt continues to be recognised as one of the top contentious trusts and probate practitioners, along with Steven Kempster. Stephen Richards is increasingly advising families of which a vulnerable member, often with cognitive decline, has suffered financial abuse. Natasha Stourton has a particular interest in the succession and trusteeship of digital assets and cryptocurrencies. Senior Counsel Dawn Goodman is recommended, along with Alice TomlinSarah Aughwane, and Alexandra Dix.

Practice head(s):

Suzanne Todd

Testimonials

‘This is one of the strongest contentious trusts and probate teams in the country. Paul Hewitt is a master of strategy and tactics and not someone you would want to face on the other side.’

‘Stephen Richards is an excellent solicitor and litigator. He is calm and unflappable, providing clear and measured advice to clients, even in very difficult and challenging circumstances and is excellent at identifying a clear strategy for a case.’

‘Natasha Stourton provided seamless support for me and my junior. Other excellent work in the team was done in particular by Richard Walker and Alexandra Dix.’

‘A huge and talented team that is industry leading in its scope, knowledge, and experience. Paul Hewitt is one of the big names. A tenacious and highly effective litigator.’

‘Paul Hewitt is one of the best in this area; an astute tactician, unflappable, clever and hugely experienced. Natasha Stourton is sensitive to the client’s needs, calm, experienced and strategic. Sarah Aughwane is very calm, has a wealth of knowledge and above all a strategic approach.’

‘Steven Kempster is exceptional in his attention to detail, his calmness and clarity of thinking and his manner with clients. He comes without any ego or airs and graces and provides excellent service.’

‘Natasha Stourton and Dawn Goodman are arguably the finest trusts and estates team in London; there is nothing they do not know and nothing they cannot do. Real strength at all levels.’

‘Paul Hewitt is an outstanding practitioner. Extremely knowledgeable and super experienced; a consummate litigator. Stephen Richards is both one of the finest and also one of the nicest litigators around. Sarah Aughwane is clever, approachable, and diligent.’

Key clients

GP Hinduja and Family

Beneficiary of trusts

Two Private Trust Companies

Bond

Trident Trust Company (Singapore) Pte Ltd

S Etroy and RBC

Macmillan Cancer Support and Marie Curie

Chan

Work highlights

  • Acted for three of the Hinduja brothers, one of Britain’s wealthiest families, in Court of Protection proceedings involving over 20 hearings (at First Instance and the Court of Appeal) arising from the incapacity of the family’s patriarch.
  • Advising two of the children of a multimillionaire tyre magnate and racehorse breeder on challenging the validity of his purported last will.
  • Advised the trustees of two high-value BVI trusts holding assets in Hong King, Singapore, Japan, and Australia on the successful court blessing of their decision to partition and distribute the trust assets against a highly acrimonious family background which included a dispute over parental rights arising out of international surrogacy arrangements.

Private client > Court of protection Tier 1

There are ‘brilliant partners’ at Withers LLP who are ‘backed by top-quality associates and trainees. Everyone at Withers is intelligent and personable.Stephen Richards and Julia Abrey co-head the ‘excellent team’, which acts for the families and appointed representatives of older and vulnerable people. It regularly acts for trustees, executors, charities, and other professional groups. In addition, the team is recommended for its work on disabled trusts, and for its advice on advance decisions to refuse medical treatment. The team has particular strength in advising on cross-border mental capacity issues. Natasha Stourton is another known name for her advice on a broad array of Court of Protection matters, such as lifetime gifts, statutory wills, and powers of attorney. Alice Tomlin acts for charities, private individuals, and institutions on all aspects of contentious trust and succession disputes, with a particular focus on Court of Protection matters. Paul Hewitt is another leading name in the department.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Richards; Julia Abrey

Testimonials

‘Having Stephen Richards and Alice Tomlin in your corner gives you the confidence that every detail will be addressed and you won’t be out thought by the other side.’

‘The CoP team have a well-deserved reputation as experts in the sector and a niche in complex cross-border mental capacity matters. Julia Abrey is the specialists’ specialist: her expertise and enthusiasm are impressive and she is a great and engaging public speaker.’

‘Stephen Richards is an excellent solicitor and litigator. He is calm and unflappable, providing clear and measured advice to clients, even in very difficult and challenging circumstances and is excellent at identifying a clear strategy for a case.’ 

‘Stephen Richards and Natasha Stourton demonstrated their ability to formulate a clear strategy and provide strategic and commercial advice to their client.’

‘One of the few firms able to take on the really big cases, but give the same attention and service down to the smallest cases. As adept at acting for HNW families and national charities as they are in small family disputes.’

‘Stephen Richards is perhaps first amongst a small handful of lawyers who know how, can, and do take on really big Court of Protection litigation. He is great at pivoting from the strategic big-picture to the micro and tactical. He has a real feel for how a judge will see a case. Hugely dedicated.’

‘Alice Tomlin is very bright and extremely diligent – she understands the area extremely well and has a great eye for detail. She is extremely client responsive.’

‘Sensational team with real depth and skill. Stephen Richards is a standout individual in the team. Julia Abrey is excellent.’

Key clients

GP Hinduja and Family

Private client > Family Tier 1

Without doubt one of the top London firms‘, Withers LLP fields a family team with ‘a strength in depth, from the most junior trainee to the most senior partner, which is unparalleled‘. The group’s non-court dispute resolution offering, including the firm’s Uncouple model, is a standout element: Claire Blakemore and Diana Parker are key to the model’s development, and Adele Pledger is also noted for her mediation work. ‘Superb‘ team head Suzanne Todd has notable experience in Anglo-Italian matters and multijurisdictional pre-nups, while Michael Gouriet regularly acts for entrepreneurs and land owners. Katharine Landells is recommended as ‘a cut above‘ in financially and emotionally complex cases, and Brett Frankle‘s practice spans financial disputes and private law children work, including international relocations. Julian Lipson‘s work often features tax and trust concerns, which are also a strength for the ‘bright and effective’ Jennifer Dickson. Alexander Breedon has a growing practice in jurisdiction/forum disputes, and Sarfraz Ali is praised for his ‘keen eye for detail‘.

Practice head(s):

Suzanne Todd

Testimonials

‘Jennifer Dickson is a rising star and has a very bright future ahead of her. She is very bright and effective and will look for creative and pragmatic solutions for her clients. She always has her clients’ interests front and centre.’

‘Katharine Landells is a pleasure to work with. She plays with a straight bat, cuts to the chase, and is solution focused for clients. That is a breath of fresh air when acting against London firms. She’s a cut above.’

‘Sarfraz Ali works efficiently, has a keen eye for detail and welcomes an open dialogue on resolving issues for clients. He is a rising star.’

‘Without doubt one of the top London firms. A well-deserved reputation for providing an elite service.’

‘In my opinion, Withers is the standout family law team in London. They have a strength in depth, from the most junior trainee to the most senior partner, which is unparalleled.’

‘Withers are an exceptionally strong team – they have good people with a broad range of strengths and abilities and are exceptionally good at pulling together teams of personnel at different levels of experience.’

‘Suzanne Todd is superb – she is very adept at communicating complex issues in a straightforward way. She is extremely good working in a team and is good at getting the best out of people – both lawyers and clients.’

‘A strong and deep team involved in the biggest cases. Put real effort into technical knowledge and have a wide breadth of experience. Their uncoupling offering is novel and being copied by others.’

Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 1

Withers LLP fields a large team, which acts for 74% of the individuals and families in the Sunday Times Top 100 UK Rich List. It also has a dedicated US-qualified private client team in London. Senior partner Christopher Groves heads the firm’s European private client practice. Patricia Milner is a highly experienced practitioner whose focus is on tax, trust, and estate planning for both UK and non-UK resident and domiciled individuals, and their families. Philip Munro is highly regarded for his expertise in succession planning for international families. Another key member is Charlie Tee, who has a strong reputation in the market for his work on UK and international tax and trust issues, as well as advising on wills and succession planning. Richard Cassell advises on US and international tax, trust, and estate planning matters. Also recommended is Ceri Vokes, who regularly advises on complex cross-border tax planning, and who continues to work closely with many family offices. Claire Harris heads up the European family office team.

Practice head(s):

Christopher Groves; Ceri Vokes

Testimonials

‘Incredible strength in depth, all lawyers are industry leaders. They have great experience with clients from all different nationalities and backgrounds.’

‘Philip Munro – my go-to for complex private client matters. He’s incredibly intelligent and has a great way with clients. He identifies problems and works out solutions.’

‘Depth of experience, knowledge and resource on offer across all aspects of personal, company and trust needs.’

‘Great people skills. Empathetic and responsive to our needs.’

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Cambridge Tier 1

The Cambridge office of Withers LLP serves as its main UK hub for work in the technology and life sciences sector, which encompasses advice to established healthcare and tech businesses, start-ups and market disruptors, venture capital investors, family offices, charities, and university spin-outs in the local Cambridge ecosystem and around the world. 'The team is brilliant and we feel like we're always in safe hands', remarks one client. Lead partner Susanna Stanfield and senior associate Mary Harley are the key contacts in Cambridge, where IP specialist Richard Penfold, global head of venture capital James Shaw and other VC partners frequently work. Stanfield recently advised Molten Ventures on its £5m investment into Zaptic.

Practice head(s):

Susanna Stanfield

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The Withers team provided us with very prompt and thorough analysis that showed an excellent understanding of the sector. Their comments on documents were practical and pragmatic, while also making sure our interests were protected. We felt comfortable that we were receiving quality advice despite working across time zones from Australia to the UK.’

‘Incredibly knowledgable – we had a relatively complex transaction, and we felt incredibly well covered. Pace of work is incredibly high, with rapid turn around on documents, and questions. Team was constantly available, with minutes to reply to emails throughout the day and late into the evening. High-pressure project, team delivered very well under changing and complex circumstances with a diverse set of stakeholders.’

‘We’ve been with Withers for many years through several rounds of funding and various other situations where we’ve needed their help. For such a large firm, you would expect things to be less personal, but they are not. The team are brilliant and feel like we’re always in safe hands and they spot issues and gaps where others might not. They’ve saved our bacon a number of times – a great firm.’

Key clients

Clean Energy Finance Corporation

Emerge Ventures

Guider App

Kaikaku.ai Limited

Knok Healthcare

Mangrove Capital Partners

Marvel Prototyping

Molten Ventures

Nationwide Engineering Research and Development

Nature Metrics

Plumerai Limited

Project Provenance

Roslin Technologies

Skiller Whale

Levidian

Akamis Bio

Automata

Searo Labs

Opto Biosystems

ETF (Environmental Technologies Fund)

Early Health

Fluidstack

Farmer J Limited

Caprera (Collectiv Food)

Mirzyme Therapeutics

Quaisr

Racketpal Limited

CellCentric Limited

VaxEquity

Lodgify (Codebay Solutions)

Vinterior

Spektrix

Kynos Therapeutics

Aztec (Spilsbury Holdings)

MEVOX Limited

GoWorkabit

Eternygen

With Roam

Stress Point Health

Bond Financial Technologies Limited

Limonaia

Lyfstone AS

Start Codon

Phantom Technologies

Signatur Bioscience

Work highlights

  • Advised Molten Ventures, leading European venture capital fund, together with Cambridge Innovation Capital and Amadeus Capital on a £15M Series B funding round of Riverlane, a University of Cambridge spin-out, that develops software and algorithms for quantum computers.
  • Advised ETF (Environment Technologies Fund), an international syndicate of impact investors, making a $50m equity investment into Open Cosmos Ltd, a global satellite and space technology company.
  • Advised Nature Metrics Ltd, global nature intelligence technology company, in respect of its £9.5 million Series A extension round from existing lead investors; 2150 Urban Tech Sustainability Fund I SCSp, Ananda Impact Fund IV GmbH & Co KG, SLP Blue Ocean, BNP Paribas Solar Impulse Venture Fund S.L.P.

Corporate and commercial > M&A: Smaller Deals, £10m-£100m Tier 2

The corporate team at Withers LLP covers the sports, automotive, hospitality, and real estate sectors, as well as the creative industries, assisting founders and business stakeholders on a range of corporate transactions such as M&A, joint ventures, and investments. Leading the team is Paul McGrath, who concentrates on M&A transactions, demergers, and reorganisations. McGrath is frequently instructed by both domestic and international companies and investors. Private equity and luxury brand authority Graham Webster has extensive experience advising on M&A deals, early stage development capital, and joint ventures, while Sharon Whitehouse focuses on equity investments in private companies, fundraisings, M&A, and restructuring. The group also benefits from the cross-border expertise of Philip Watkins and Victoria Rodley, both of whom are adept in handling complex, multijurisdictional matters for multinational companies.

Practice head(s):

Paul McGrath

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Paul McGrath was unflappable, bright, and able to filter the issues we needed to consider as trustees. He presented and articulated himself in a way that was clear and relevant.’

‘Withers has truly exceeded my expectations. Their deep expertise and innovative practices shine through in every interaction.’

‘They consistently deliver tailored legal strategies across a wide range of sectors, and their comprehensive knowledge in investment, corporate law, and international business matters is impressive. Working with their team has given me invaluable clarity on complex issues.’

‘Despite being a large firm, their approach to collaboration and communication makes each experience feel personal and attentive. Their commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive environment speaks volumes about their values. Plus, they leverage technology to make the process efficient and seamless.’

‘I couldn’t be happier with their service and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone in need of legal assistance.’

‘Sharon Whitehouse has been absolutely amazing to work with. My understanding of legal matters was limited, but she has always been patient and willing to dedicate time to ensure I fully grasp everything.’

‘What sets Sharon apart is that she genuinely cares, treating me as a person rather than just a client. Her willingness to offer personalised advice and her unwavering support make her stand out among competitors.’

‘Sharon’s expertise, empathy, and dedication have made navigating legal challenges a much smoother process, and I couldn’t ask for a better partner than Sharon. She truly is the best!’

Key clients

Galileo Global Education group

EMLyon Business School

EastHORN

Mullin Automotive Museum

Weinstock family trust

Lacroix family trust

Work highlights

  • Advised Galileo Global Education group and EMLyon business school on their respective investment in The London Interdisciplinary School.
  • Advising EastHORN group on their sale to Novotech.
  • Acted for the trustees of two family trusts on the disposal of a substantial minority interest in Troy Asset Management Limited.

Dispute resolution > Public international law Tier 2

In addition to Withers LLP‘s credentials in state-state and treaty disputes, the practice consistently litigates international law issues in the courts of England and Wales, in relation to sovereign immunity. The ‘fantastic team’ is also experienced in human rights disputes and sanctions. The only Solicitor-Advocate to take silk in 2024, ‘outstanding’ practice head Hussein Haeri KC advises on the gamut of public international law matters, including sovereign immunity issues arising out of the enforcement of judgments and awards against states, as well as The Law of the Sea, human rights, and international sanctions; and former Attorney General of England and Wales, Sir Geoffrey Cox KC, represents states in international disputes. The ‘technically skilled and commercial’ practice additionally showcases Robert Kovacs, a specialist in public international law, international arbitration, and business and human rights; Camilla Gambarini, who represents individuals, companies, states and state-owned entities in international arbitrations involving the energy, aviation, metal, waste management and media sectors; former Member of the UN International Law Commission Aniruddha Rajput; and dual-qualified (Turkey and England and Wales) Ruzin Dagli, whose workload covers the application of treaties, and disputes concerning human rights, sovereign immunity, and international trade and investments.

Practice head(s):

Hussein Haeri KC

Testimonials

‘This team has a very unique international approach to its work, and its knowledge of legal contexts is incredible and very useful.’

‘Clients are very pleased with the commitment and professional skills of those involved in their work.’

‘The team is technically skilled and commercial. They take a commercial approach that is much appreciated.’

‘The firm’s commitment to pro bono, especially in the international sphere, really places it a cut above others.’

‘Withers has a fantastic team that specialises in both public international law and international arbitration.’

‘Led by the outstanding Hussein Haeri KC, they offer one of the best practices in this area in London.’

‘Hussein Haeri KC is an excellent lawyer and a rare combination of intellectual prowess and commercial nous. Very impressive, as clients do not often get one with the other.’

‘Hussein Haeri KC displays his exceptional intellect and experience to good effect for his clients throughout the preparation and hearing of a case.’

Key clients

Government of Equatorial Guinea

Qatar National Bank

Gruppo Piccini

Oxfam America

Avaaz

Gesenu

Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co

The Government of the Virgin Islands

Clooney Foundation for Justice

Task Force on Accountability for Crimes Committed in Ukraine

Center for Reproductive Rights

Work highlights

  • Representing the Government of Equatorial Guinea in The M/T Heroic Idun (No. 2) case before the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea.
  • Acting for Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Co in the global enforcement of an approximately $70m investment treaty award against the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
  • Represented the Government of the (British) Virgin Islands in a Commission of Inquiry, which was tasked with establishing whether corruption, abuse of office or other serious dishonesty in relation to officials (whether statutory, elected or public) may have taken place in recent years.

Private client > Art and cultural property Tier 2

Withers LLP has ‘one of the preeminent art teams for the big cases’. The ‘extremely able’ Sarah Barker heads the department, and the ‘talented‘ team is skilled at advising on fine art sales and purchases, as well as art and heritage-related tax issues. Other areas of focus include advising on charity law relating to museums and art foundations, as well as art-related money laundering. The team also excels in handling complex matters with an international dimension. Eleni Polycarpoui is recommended for her work on stolen art cases, restitution cases, title disputes, authenticity disputes and consignment disputes. Key clients of the practice include artists, museums, art galleries, and private collectors.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Barker

Other key lawyers:

Eleni Polycarpou; Natalie Sherborn

Testimonials

‘The team has broad knowledge and experience in art law and related subjects. Sarah Barker and her colleagues are extremely attentive, responsive and experienced.’

‘Eleni Polycarpou gets great results. She understands the art world and knows what works and what doesn’t when dealing with people from the art world.’

‘Sarah Barker is quite possibly the lead partner on transactional and advisory art law in London having had her specialist firm bought out by Withers. She is also extremely able.’

‘Eleni Polycarpou is a fabulously strategic litigator, managing this very complicated multi-jurisdictional litigation with all the conflicts and problems that brings, heading a team of many, many lawyers.’

‘Eleni Polycarpou is on top of her game, aware of every detail in this complex piece of litigation, which is rare at this level. Very quick on her feet and very astute strategically, with an exceptional eye to find a commercial solution for the client.’

‘Sarah Barker is very approachable, highly attentive and extremely knowledgeable. Assisted by Natalie Sherborn, she returns calls in good time, garners information and provides advice clearly, efficiently and where possible without delay.’

‘Eleni Polycarpou was extremely professional and took charge of the case as expected and required.’

‘A top-rate practice with a huge knowledge of the market and the key institutions and players. Eleni Polycarpou is brilliant. She really knows the market and how it operates.’

Key clients

Vortic

Hope 93

Castle Howard

Tate

Victoria Miro

National Gallery of Scotland

Private client > Family: mediation Tier 2

The mediation practice within Withers LLP's family team is spearheaded by Suzanne Todd, who is sought after for her expertise in Italian cases. Diana Parker's longstanding mediation experience is bolstered by her qualification as a family arbitrator. Along with Claire Blakemore, Parker has developed the firm’s ‘Uncouple’ offering, combining mediation and arbitration to minimise conflict and find common ground for separating couples. The team often handles matters for high-profile clients, and emphasises privacy, acting in both financial and children-related mediation.

Practice head(s):

Suzanne Todd

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Withers have one of the leading family teams in London, supported by trust, tax and other private client support teams of the highest quality. A stand out firm for HNWs.’

‘Suzanne Todd is exceptional. She leads a strong team and is a fabulous mediator who can get to the heart of an issue and resolve it, seamlessly, for clients. She is wise, experienced and fantastic to work with.’

‘The mediators in this team are very good mediators but also amongst the best lawyers in the country, so clients get the best of all worlds; skilled mediators to help them discuss options but also legal knowledge.’

‘Claire Blakemore and Suzanne Todd are top of their game and the clients I refer to them report back that they are very happy with them. They are practical, sensible and also very personable so clients are put at ease which is incredibly important in mediation.’

Work highlights

Real estate > Residential property Tier 2

The team at Withers LLP advises on the full spectrum of residential property transactions, regularly collaborating with the firm’s construction team. Pervaze Ahmed acts for adiverse client base of overseas investors, high-net-worth individuals and their companies, trust companies and banks. Bertie Hoskyns-Abrahall is a seasoned private client practitioner whose focus is on farms and estates. Practice head Nicholas Vaughan frequently assists clients with acquiring and selling prime central London residential property, lease extensions, freehold enfranchisement and refinancing.

Practice head(s):

Nicholas Vaughan

Other key lawyers:

Pervaze Ahmed; David Holland; George Coleman; Bertie Hoskyns-Abrahall; Edward Jarron

Testimonials

‘Prompt and very knowledgeable in residential and commercial real estate.’

‘David Holland – Does a fantastic job on residential properties and works patiently with clients to understand their situation.’

‘Wide ranging expertise and real attention to detail on more complex matters. But are also very easy to work with, accessible and communicative with clients.’

‘Nick Vaughan is one of the best in the business; a positive and engaging partner.’

‘George Coleman is head and shoulders above many of his peers, particularly on leasehold reform matters. Excellent at keeping clients informed and manages to make even the most complex matters far less overwhelming.’

‘Leading the way in the rural sector, with a deep understanding of country property. Offer confident, competent advice, with a pragmatic approach to issues and look for solutions, rather than problems.’

‘Bertie Hoskyns Abrahall – outstanding professional with a calm, highly intelligent approach to all legal matters. Always easy to recommend Bertie to clients who want the highest levels of service and advice.’

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Reputation management Tier 2

Withers LLP‘s media and reputation practice regularly works with international corporates, charities, and HNWIs, particularly in the art, entertainment, and sports sectors. Highlighted for its ‘excellent legal knowledge’, the ‘strongly practical’ and ‘professional’ team specialises in defamation, breach of confidence, and data protection cases. Co-led by Jo Sanders in London and Amber Melville-Brown in New York, the team offers robust expertise in privacy, blackmail, and harassment matters, often collaborating with the firm’s white-collar crime specialists. Caroline Thompson regularly engages with the media on behalf of her clients at the pre and post-publication stage.

Practice head(s):

Amber Melville-Brown; Jo Sanders

Other key lawyers:

Caroline Sanders; Andrew Fremlin-Key

Testimonials

‘Excellent legal knowledge; strongly practical, professional. They exude confidence. Good client management. Cross-departmental services are delivered in a joined-up way. Incomparable client support- better than any other private client firm.’

‘I had a very positive outcome with this team. My core objective was to de-escalate a potentially difficult and distressing situation and avoid litigation. The team listened to my concerns and gave sound advice, and their legal approach delivered the outcome I desired. Their strength is their ability to minimise and then eliminate a crisis situation and cauterise the threat.’

‘Jo Sanders was outstanding. She listens to the client’s needs and advises an approach which will protect and deal with the threat in the fastest way possible, whilst creating the least amount of noise, which is crucial when seeking to protect reputations.’

’Withers have a strong practice, headed by Jo Sanders who is excellent. She has built (and is growing) a team with strength at all levels. They are a sensible, measured unit, who I am very happy to refer clients to on conflicts.’

‘Jo Sanders is very experienced, and sensible. Andrew Fremlin-Key is an up-and-coming partner, who comes across as very knowledgeable and personable.’

‘Andrew Fremlin-Key: highly intelligent, well educated, with a deep and broad knowledge. Highly practical and very experienced.’

Key clients

Raffaele Mincione

Novak Djokovic

Aston Martin Racing

Members of the Hinduja family

Dr David Starkey MBE

Founders of SGT Capital

A crypto-currency founder

Several individuals in football management

Two leading cardiologists

Hedge fund

A well-known fashion model

Several well-known artists (including fine art and photography) and writers

Mr Geyer and Mr Pacini

Several members of the House of Lords

Several founders of crypto businesses

Senior executives in healthcare

Work highlights

  • Represented British historian Dr David Starkey MBE in a case of mistaken identity in an article published by The Telegraph.
  • Represents the claimants (two individuals from private equity) in their claims over inaccuracies against the Wall Street Journal.
  • Acted pro bono for two academics to ensure the integrity of their paper and defend their right of expression.

Employment > Immigration: personal Tier 2

The ‘exceptional‘ group at Withers LLP is dedicated to the personal immigration needs of HNW individuals and families, and is particularly proficient in matters that sit at the intersection of immigration, private client, employment, corporate and tax law. As part of an international private client firm, the team can draw on the global expertise from its colleagues in the US, Asia and Europe. Key figures include practice head Nicolette Bostock, whose ‘knowledge and expertise in immigration matters is remarkable‘, and who advises individuals, families and businesses on all aspects of UK immigration law, such as EU Settlement scheme issues, settlement applications, British citizenship and passport applications; and private client immigration specialist Ana Nicorici.

Practice head(s):

Nicolette Bostock

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team provided expert and extremely helpful advice and support.’

‘The team was extremely effective in dealing with my case and all my inquires with care and attention to detail. They have always felt my issues at the heart and felt they made a very convoluted and stressful bureaucratic process much more human and surmountable.’

‘Tracy Evlogidis and Ana Nicorici made enormous contributions to me feeling safe and cared for here in the UK.’

‘Their knowledge in the sector is commendable and we feel we have the best people handling our case.’

‘Tracy Evlogidis and Anna Nicorici are kind, courteous, efficient, sympathetic, patient, professional and give the personal touch. And they know their sector well and are up to date with the latest news, rules and guidelines.’

‘Withers has been exceptional.’

‘Nicolette Bostock has been absolutely exceptional. Her knowledge and expertise in immigration matters is remarkable. She makes it very easy for you to understand the laws and processes.’

Corporate and commercial > Venture capital Tier 3

Covering early-stage investment rounds, high-value equity investments, and complex corporate restructuring, the Withers LLP team has a ‘good handle of various sectors’, demonstrating significant strength in the AI and biotech spheres. Splitting his time between London and Cambridge, the practice is headed up by James Shaw, who specialises in assisting start-ups, primarily in the environmental biology arena. Also based in Cambridge, Susanna Stanfield is an expert on spin-outs and venture capital issues, while Sarah Melaney concentrates on scaleups and exits. Phil Robinson acts on both the company and investor sides. Neil Jones is also recommended. All lawyers are London-based unless otherwise stated.

Practice head(s):

James Shaw

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team were able to support me with international enquiries and put me in touch with other legal counsel in other territories really quickly. When it came to a deal with a US company they were quickly able to get US counsel on board and get the information I needed within 24 hours to continue my deal. Expertise across countries and strong in technology and startups.’

‘I work with Sarah Melaney. She is incredibly responsive and gives me confidence with each exchange. A very strong can-do attitude and aligns the priorities with mine to keep everything slowing. High standards of work and control of deals. Sarah can tackle anything and is always around to give sound advice. What I believe being true legal counsel is about rather than transaction in nature.’

‘Phil Robinson is accessible, thoughtful, considerate to my business needs and budget limitations. He gives our venture excellent practical advice.’

‘Susanna Stanfield heads the corporate practice in Cambridge and is highly regarded, having advised on the drafting of the newly revised BVCA model venture investment documentation.’

‘Fluidity to the team’s deal making ability, born out of a deep understanding of the dynamics of a VC lead investment round.’

‘Sarah Melaney has to be one of, of not the best in this space. She’s like having a great co-founder with deep VC experience rather than external legal counsel.’

‘While we have a primary point of contact, there is always a team supporting our work, and unbelievably almost round the clock access to an individual collaborating with us. The team is well versed beyond the UK, has a good handle of various sectors, is considered with their projects, and efficient when liaising with us.’

‘Sarah Melaney has truly been a partner beyond legal. She thinks strategically at a firm level for us as well as how to best protect our interests while being fair to founders in our portfolio. She’s very commercial, works well with other lawyers / firms when necessary, and is always available. She’s been very helpful across both UK and US law, and we trust her to always take a good look at the fine print.’

Key clients

ETF Partners

Generation Phoenix

Molten Ventures

Lede.AI

Early Health

Ananda Ventures

Nature Metrics

Lick Home Ltd

At One Ventures

WNWN Food Labs

EntoCycle Inc

Orderly Transition

Nature Alpha

Opto Biosystems

Work highlights

  • Advised ETF Partners – the international syndicate of impact investors – on a $50m equity investment into Open Cosmos Ltd, a global satellite and space technology company.
  • Advised Molten Ventures as lead investor in Cambridge-based Riverlane’s £15 million Series B funding round, with participation from Cambridge Innovation Capital and Amadeus Capital.
  • Advised Generation Phoenix, an advanced sustainable materials company, on its corporate restructuring as well as their subsequent Series B investment round.

Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 3

Withers LLP‘s London team is particularly well known for international arbitration work involving Africa, Asia and the Middle East, along with Russia and CIS countries. The practice is co-led by Hussein Haeri KC, who is ‘a leading figure in international arbitration’, and Eleni Polycarpou, who regularly takes arbitrator appointments. The group further comprises Russia, Ukraine and CIS disputes expert Tatiana Menshenina, disputes head Peter Wood, and commercial arbitration specialist Roberto MoruzziLesley Timms ‘ caseload frequently contains Italian elements, and public international law expert Geoffrey Cox KC and recently-promoted partner Robert Kovacs are other names to note. Camilla Gambarini and Ruzin Dagli are also key figures.

Practice head(s):

Hussein Haeri KC; Eleni Polycarpou

Testimonials

‘Brilliant team – absolutely top notch for complex arbitration and arbitration-related court applications.’

‘They field very high-quality teams of lawyers from top to bottom. They also have wide experience of disputes emanating from many different parts of the world, including Russia and the former Soviet Union, the Middle East, and Africa.’

‘An excellent team. Their work is always of very high-quality, and their client engagement is outstanding. They are very strong in investment treaty arbitration, and complex high-value commercial arbitrations.’

‘Hussein Haeri KC is a leading figure in international arbitration. Equally comfortable in investment treaty arbitration and in commercial arbitration, he is a strong advocate who is very strategic.’

‘Eleni Polycarpou is a standout partner – she has excellent judgement and tactical nous and brings the best out of everyone in her teams. She has impressive expertise in arbitration practice and procedure across numerous jurisdictions and uses it to devise very successful strategies.’

Robert Kovacs has a bright future in arbitration. He is a very intelligent advocate who is good with clients and has a strong legal mind.

‘Roberto Moruzzi is super-easy to work with and gives clients a real sense of reassurance that he has everything under control.’

‘Ruzin Dagli is a standout star in the firm, with fantastic people skills and great attention to detail. Thinks out of the box and very hard-working.’

Key clients

Gruppo Officine Piccini

Qatar National Bank

Frazer Solar

Gesenu

Work highlights

  • Representing Qatar National Bank in ICSID arbitration proceedings against the Republic of South Sudan and the Bank of South Sudan, in connection with a failure to repay an approximately $800m loan under a facility agreement.
  • Representing Gesenu in ICSID arbitration proceedings against Egypt under the Italy-Egypt bilateral investment treaty.
  • Representing Gruppo Officine Piccini in ICSID arbitration proceedings against Cameroon under the Italy-Cameroon bilateral investment treaty, the matter stemming from the expropriation of the Yaoundé stadium construction project.

Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious Tier 4

Under the leadership of ‘absolute superstar’ Harvey Knight, Withers LLP provides ‘clear and well-intended advice’ to senior executives facing regulatory scrutiny. Recognised as ‘one of the few lawyers who really understands how to defend individuals against the bulwark of the regulator’, Knight continues to regularly elicit excellent wins before the FCA and PRA in potentially career-threatening cases.

Practice head(s):

Harvey Knight

Testimonials

‘They provide clear and well-intended advice, combined with a good understanding of their client’s objectives and constraints.’

Harvey Knight is very well experienced and considered.’

Harvey Knight is an absolute super star. He is one of the few lawyers who really understands how to defend individuals against the bulwark of the regulator.’

‘Global, innovative and embracing many legal disciplines.’

‘Exceptional experience and services. Personal approach and high level of responsibility.’

‘Very well thought-of practice for representing individuals. Very purposeful defence of their clients’ interests.’

‘Harvey Knight is very well known in the sector. We acted in parallel to him on a significant FCA Enforcement matter during this past year and he defended his client very well.’

Work highlights

Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil Tier 4

With ‘real civil fraud expertise’, Withers LLP‘s London team is experienced in large-scale international fraud cases that involve private capital. Its expertise covers art and cultural asset frauds, matters concerning financial services and trust structures, and asset tracing across the world. Heading the global civil fraud practice, Stephen Ross specialises in international asset freezing and recovery cases, heavyweight commercial litigation, and regulatory disputes; Peter Wood is ‘a brilliant tactician’; and Tatiana Menshenina is experienced in cross-border fraud disputes.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Ross

Other key lawyers:

Peter Wood; Tatiana Menshenina; Eleni Polycarpou; Andrew Wass; Roberto Moruzzi; Lesley Timms; Daniel Gore; Laura Mattar; Joshua Swift; Ryan Borley

Testimonials

‘Very user friendly, responsive and knowledgeable. Particularly good at guiding clients through the process, and supporting them to engage in and understand the process, while providing excellent legal knowledge and judgement.’

‘Hugely experienced, multifaceted and multilingual litigation firm.’

‘Very capable team with real civil fraud expertise.’

‘Stephen Ross is incredibly calm, but sees three moves ahead of everyone else, so that there are no unpleasant surprises.’

‘Peter Wood is a brilliant tactician and litigation powerhouse.’

‘Roberto Moruzzi is a delightful and client-friendly partner to work with.’

‘Andrew Wass and Laura Mattar make clients feel secure and understood, and they come up with good solutions.’

‘Andrew Wass is hugely experienced and incredibly capable, while Laura Mattar is a great associate – super-smart and dynamic.’

Key clients

Church Bay Trust Company

The Family (Holdings)

The Family (Fellowship)

The Family (Consigliere)

The Family (SPV-III)

The Family (SPV-III BIS)

The Family (SPV-III TER)

The Family (Global Godfathers)

Transomas

Transomas Investments

Barrowfen Properties

Feta t/a Ping Business Solutions

Work highlights

  • Successfully defended Kalliopi Lemos against a claim brought under s.423 Insolvency Act 1986 (transactions defrauding creditors).
  • Acted for Malaysian businessman Say Chong Lim (and investment vehicles) in a successful fraud dispute with a former business partner over the misappropriation of monies in property developments across England.
  • Represented members of a high-profile ultra-HNW family (Jatin Mehta and family), in relation to allegations of civil fraud valued at over $1bn.

Employment > Immigration Tier 4

Drawing on its strength as an international private client firm, Withers LLP excels in work at the intersection of immigration, employment and tax law. The group has particular expertise advising tech companies and their founders, and is also experienced with immigration matters such as acquiring and re-instating lost Sponsor Licences, Global Mobility and a broad range of work visas. Practice head Nicolette Bostock advises private clients and businesses on all aspects of UK immigration.

Practice head(s):

Nicolette Bostock

Testimonials

‘I really appreciate their kindness, helpful , great people, for me I would recommend them to all people that I know if they need help.’

Public sector > Education: institutions Tier 4

With particular strength in charity law, Withers LLP‘s education team advises a range of higher and further education institutions on issues such as US-UK dual qualified charitable structures, data protection, regulatory, employment, immigration, and governance. Practice head Philip Reed‘s broad charity law practice includes a range of matters, including governance and strategic advice. Chris Priestley leads the wider charities and philanthropy team at the firm and is adept in national and international commercial projects. Consultant Alison Paines   specialises in assisting education charities; and Hugh More advises on contentious and non-contentious employment matters, while Jo Sanders  is contact for all aspects of reputation and privacy law.

Practice head(s):

Philip Reed

Other key lawyers:

Chris Priestley; Alison Paines; Hugh More; Jo Sanders

Testimonials

‘The Withers team is highly responsive, expert and my ‘go-to’ firm. The team’s knowledge across universities and higher education (public and private) has noticeably grown over the last few years and they are able highly capable.’

‘Chris Priestley is exceptional. His grasp of issues is superb and he spends time thinking through the right answer for clients, not just the easy way forward that is seen in some of the contemporary teams.’

‘The Withers’ team are very knowledgeable and helpful. Plus they combine an extensive charity law practice which we call upon from time to time. Good client updates on charity law.’

‘Hugo Walford – a very knowledgeable and user-friendly senior associate.’

Key clients

Two academics at leading London university

London School of Architecture

Regent’s University

Galileo Global Education

Work highlights

  • Acted a long-standing dispute with between a multi-national publisher of an academic paper co-authored, and the two leading academic professors who authored it.
  • Advised the LSA on various mission critical matters including its move to new premises in London, matters of academic governance and student arrangements, and more.

Public sector > Education: schools Tier 4

Embedded in the firm’s charity department led by Chris Priestley , Withers LLP‘s education practice provides charity law and crisis management advice to educational trusts, charities, and foundations on various strategic and governance matters. The education group, which is led by charity law expert Philip Reed, covers contentious employment and student issues and acts in school disciplinary proceedings and investigations. Natalie Sherborn advises schools on highly sensitive internal investigations. Alison Paines and Emma Flower, who regularly act for independent schools are key members.

Practice head(s):

Philip Reed

Other key lawyers:

Chris Priestley; Natalie Sherborn; Alison Paines; Emma Flower

Testimonials

‘A deep knowledge of the topic and the ability to effectively highlight and explain the risks of adopting various courses of action following their advice.’

‘Philip Reed on charity matters pertaining to the education sector is outstanding.’

Key clients

A leading residential music summer school

Girls’ Day School Trust

Work highlights

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 4

Praised for a ‘wealth of experience’, Withers LLP’s broad caseload encompasses AI technology solutions, infrastructure service agreements, and Saas licensing agreements. With more than two decades of experience, Richard Penfold oversees the practice and is proficient in IP, life sciences, and technology matters, while Ben Williams is commended for his ‘knowledge of IPR and contracts.’ Other key members of the team include Richard Stebbing, who is well-versed in a breadth of commercial contracts.

Practice head(s):

Richard Penfold

Other key lawyers:

Ben Williams; Richard Stebbing; Kenneth Mullen; Alex Taylor

Testimonials

‘The partners are extremely competent and knowledgeable about their specialist areas. They are able to offer high quality strategic advice that is readily understandable by those less familiar with the legal concepts involved. I have had good feedback from clients that have worked with them. They have also introduced a number of innovations, such as AI-tools for reviewing large numbers of contracts, which provide significant efficiencies for clients.’

‘They are great people who empathize and provide rational guidance to help make decisions.’

‘They have a wealth of experience across the team with the ability to support globally with pretty much anything you can imagine.’

‘They are easy to work with, super rational, and thoughtful.’

‘Ben Williams’ knowledge of IPR and contracts within our industry proved to be very valuable. His advice was spot on, and he paid attention to the most efficient, i.e. cost-effective, way of achieving our goals, and was able to explain all options clearly and succinctly without burdening us with law lectures. He was also always available when we needed him.’

‘I have worked closely with Ben Williams on a number of projects and with several mutual clients. I am always confident when introducing my clients to him that they will receive high quality advice that takes into account their specific situation and requirements. He often has novel ideas and has introduced a number of innovations to provide cost effective services to clients, such as AI tools for analysing a companies portfolio of contracts and providing insights on points of strength and weakness.’

‘Ben Williams partner at Withers is an all round great human.’

Key clients

Fluidstack

Diligent Boardbooks Ltd

European Computer Telecoms Ltd

Automata

Pepper Advantage

Levidian Nanosystems

Aston Martin Racing

Akamis Bio

The Royal Society

Quix Analytics

Chaddenwych Services Ltd

Nature Metrics

Atlas Co-Pilot Ltd

Work highlights

  • Advised Fluidstack on a range of commercial contracts with customers and vendors regarding the provision of business critical services.
  • Advised Diligent Boardbooks on an IT-driven business transformation project that involved the entire suite of its 45k customer contracts.
  • Advised Levidian Nanosystems on preparing a suite of framework contractual documents to support the launch of its “decarbonisation as a service” technology to energy sector clients located in the EMEA region.

Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: white-collar crime (advice to individuals) Tier 5

The dedicated practice at Withers LLP adeptly advises high-net-worth individuals, politicians, and private clients on cross-border financial crime matters, with notable emphasis on compliance issues, sanctions and trade control issues, and money laundering regulations. Carl Newman and Harvey Knight jointly lead the team; Newman is a seasoned white-collar specialist with a focus on representing ultra-high-net-worth individuals facing allegations of financial crime and misconduct, while Knight takes point on FCA enforcement cases and financial services regulatory work. Other key figures include litigator Natalie Sherborn, who acts for directors and politicians across all stages of criminal prosecutions.

Practice head(s):

Carl Newman; Harvey Knight

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Breadth and depth of experience across the team. Really star quality individuals.’

‘Natalie Sherborn – great within this team.’

‘Carl Newman – your rock when it comes to aggressive litigation.’

‘Led by Carl Newman, they’re top of their game in the work they undertake. He is super knowledgeable and personable.’

‘Carl Newman – very engaging, easy to understand and really knows how to present a case for all to digest and progress.’

‘Well-rounded team capable of dealing with all white-collar crime cases.’

‘Natalie Sherborn – client focused and plain talking. Able to make the complex digestible. Excellent advocacy and client care.’

Employment > Employers Tier 5

Withers LLP fields an agile team, which acts for many organisations of various sizes and structures. Its client base includes founders, start-ups and entrepreneurs, as well as large household names. It is best known for its expertise in the luxury brand market, and the financial sector. The group is also recognised for its work with national charities. In addition, it has a wealth of experience of working with family-owned businesses and family offices. The practice is collectively led by Meriel Schindler ; Claire Christy and Hugh More.

Practice head(s):

Meriel Schindler; Claire Christy; Hugh More

Other key lawyers:

Alex Thompson; James Hockin; Libby Payne

Testimonials

‘We have found the employers team at Withers to be very flexible and responsive – they recently assisted us with an investigation /complaint and were able to bring in additional resources to advise on reputational management and with respect to the governance of a charitable body.’

‘Hugh More and Alexandra Thompson gave robust and very timely support to the appointed complaint investigator and myself about how to address a very difficult situation. They listened, clarified issues as requested and advised us throughout the investigation process.’

‘The employment team are expert, responsive and commercial. They are good at considering the human angle alongside the legal.’

‘James Hockin is my go-to for all people related matters. He is highly expert and gives pragmatic and commercial advice. Highly recommended.’

‘Claire Christy is a very astute employment lawyer.’

‘Claire Christy – An excellent communicator, Claire is able quickly to analyse difficult cases and get straight to the point. She gets a great deal for her clients and knows where all the pressure points are on the other side. A problem-solver par excellence.’

‘Claire is well-worth her salt. Libby Payne – Incredibly clever, but always measured and has excellent judgment. Clients love her, and rightly so.’

‘Alex Thompson has been a brilliant partner to us, and at points an extension of our team. She has done a great job in understanding our business and is able to tailor her advice accordingly.’

Key clients

Henkel

Omerta

Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team (formerly Racing Point UK Limited)

Guide Dogs

The Edward James Foundation

Work highlights

  • Advised Omerta on a significant bonus clawback case. The decision was appealed to the High Court on the basis that the bonus clawback was a restraint of trade and/or represented a penalty.
  • Advising UK charity Guide Dogs on employment, immigration and pensions issues affecting its large (c1,500 employees) and varied workforce.
  • Advising Aston Martin Racing Aramco Cognizant Formula One Team on all aspects of employment law, including its contracts, day-to-day HR issues and post-termination restraints.

Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 5

The professional negligence practice at Withers LLP has experience representing both claimants and defendants. The team advises on claims against a range of professionals, including investment advisors, solicitors, architects, and accountants. The practice is co-headed by Caroline Thompson and Eleni Polycarpou. Owen Talfan Davies joined the firm in August 2023 from Fieldfisher; he is particularly experienced in handling professional negligence claims within the real estate sector.

Practice head(s):

Eleni Polycarpou; Caroline Thompson

Other key lawyers:

Stephen Ross; Joshua Swift; Owen Talfan Davies

Testimonials

‘They are very experienced and great communicators.’

‘Eleni Polycarpou is very experienced and brilliant with clients.’

‘Caroline Thompson and Josh Swift are both excellent and highly effective lawyers, who are also both charming and pleasant to deal with.’

‘Stephen Ross is very experienced. He is extremely calm under the most ferocious of fires, which instills confidence in all clients.’

‘Stephen Ross is a heavy weight commercial litigator and very experienced in pursuing and defending professional negligence claims against solicitors.’

‘Joshua Swift is very bright, savvy, and all over the detail.’

‘Caroline Thompson has great judgement.’

‘In the conduct of professional negligence claims, this firm is able to bring to bear its particular experience in private client and trusts matters.’

Key clients

Bar Mutual Indemnity Fund

RBC Trust Company

Barrowfen Properties Limited

Ferrybridge Capital Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted in high-value and complex claims against various of Bar Mutual’s insureds, which have been resolved by way of strike out and/or settlement.
  • Acting for Ferrybridge Capital Limited in claims against firms of solicitors in negligence and breach of trust following a fraudulent property transaction.
  • Acting for an individual in a negligence claim against his former solicitors who did not adequately advise as to the tax liability that would arise on the transfer of trust assets into a new trust.

Risk advisory > Regulatory investigations and corporate crime (advice to corporates) Tier 5

Carl Newman and Natalie Sherborn jointly oversee the white-collar defence and investigations practice at Withers LLP. Newman acts for both individual and corporate clients, handling FCA, PRA, SFO, and HMRC investigations, while Sherborn is the name to note for cross-border and multi-agency investigations. The duo works alongside financial services regulatory expert Harvey Knight.

Practice head(s):

Carl Newman; Natalie Sherborn

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Great team with breadth and depth of experience. They are fantastic at dealing with high-profile clients in a discrete and sensible way.’

‘Carl Newman holds the whole team together with charisma and style – he’s very well thought of in this field and is both a great lawyer and very valued by his client base for sensible and pragmatic advice.’

‘Anthony Hanratty and Natalie Sherborn are great within his team.’

‘They all have significant defence experience which is an enormous strength when advising corporate clients as the team understands an investigation from cradle to grave and all the pitfalls and potentials outcomes.’

‘Carl Newman is a tour de force, as is Natalie Sherborn.’

‘Well-resourced team able to advise corporate crime and investigations. Making their mark in this area and competing with the more traditional firms.’

‘Natalie Sherborn – Able to present to boards and senior management with ease. Natalie gives advice in a calm and strategic manner. Very strong on internal investigations. ’

Worldwide > Tax Tier 1

East Anglia > Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Cambridge

The Cambridge office of Withers LLP serves as its main UK hub for work in the technology and life sciences sector, which encompasses advice to established healthcare and tech businesses, start-ups and market disruptors, venture capital investors, family offices, charities, and university spin-outs in the local Cambridge ecosystem and around the world. 'The team is brilliant and we feel like we're always in safe hands', remarks one client. Lead partner Susanna Stanfield and senior associate Mary Harley are the key contacts in Cambridge, where IP specialist Richard Penfold, global head of venture capital James Shaw and other VC partners frequently work. Stanfield recently advised Molten Ventures on its £5m investment into Zaptic.

Practice head(s):

Susanna Stanfield

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The Withers team provided us with very prompt and thorough analysis that showed an excellent understanding of the sector. Their comments on documents were practical and pragmatic, while also making sure our interests were protected. We felt comfortable that we were receiving quality advice despite working across time zones from Australia to the UK.’

‘Incredibly knowledgable – we had a relatively complex transaction, and we felt incredibly well covered. Pace of work is incredibly high, with rapid turn around on documents, and questions. Team was constantly available, with minutes to reply to emails throughout the day and late into the evening. High-pressure project, team delivered very well under changing and complex circumstances with a diverse set of stakeholders.’

‘We’ve been with Withers for many years through several rounds of funding and various other situations where we’ve needed their help. For such a large firm, you would expect things to be less personal, but they are not. The team are brilliant and feel like we’re always in safe hands and they spot issues and gaps where others might not. They’ve saved our bacon a number of times – a great firm.’

Key clients

Clean Energy Finance Corporation

Emerge Ventures

Guider App

Kaikaku.ai Limited

Knok Healthcare

Mangrove Capital Partners

Marvel Prototyping

Molten Ventures

Nationwide Engineering Research and Development

Nature Metrics

Plumerai Limited

Project Provenance

Roslin Technologies

Skiller Whale

Levidian

Akamis Bio

Automata

Searo Labs

Opto Biosystems

ETF (Environmental Technologies Fund)

Early Health

Fluidstack

Farmer J Limited

Caprera (Collectiv Food)

Mirzyme Therapeutics

Quaisr

Racketpal Limited

CellCentric Limited

VaxEquity

Lodgify (Codebay Solutions)

Vinterior

Spektrix

Kynos Therapeutics

Aztec (Spilsbury Holdings)

MEVOX Limited

GoWorkabit

Eternygen

With Roam

Stress Point Health

Bond Financial Technologies Limited

Limonaia

Lyfstone AS

Start Codon

Phantom Technologies

Signatur Bioscience

Work highlights

  • Advised Molten Ventures, leading European venture capital fund, together with Cambridge Innovation Capital and Amadeus Capital on a £15M Series B funding round of Riverlane, a University of Cambridge spin-out, that develops software and algorithms for quantum computers.
  • Advised ETF (Environment Technologies Fund), an international syndicate of impact investors, making a $50m equity investment into Open Cosmos Ltd, a global satellite and space technology company.
  • Advised Nature Metrics Ltd, global nature intelligence technology company, in respect of its £9.5 million Series A extension round from existing lead investors; 2150 Urban Tech Sustainability Fund I SCSp, Ananda Impact Fund IV GmbH & Co KG, SLP Blue Ocean, BNP Paribas Solar Impulse Venture Fund S.L.P.

British Virgin Islands > Dispute resolution

At the helm of the disputes practice at Withers, Sara-Jane Knock ‘brings her substantial experience in commercial and trusts litigation to the table‘. She is the key senior contact at the BVI office and co-leads the department with London-based Sinead Harris, who is admired as ‘direct on the relevant legal matter‘. The team is counsel to HNWIs, trustees, corporates, insolvency practitioners, national governments and financial instructions. Lauren Peaty in Tortola is another ‘impressive‘ contact to note.

Practice head(s):

Sara-Jane Knock; Sinead Harris

Other key lawyers:

Lauren Peaty; Jan Alessandrini

Testimonials

‘Withers worldwide have a very strong global footprint in the private client arena, including in the BVI. Withers is one of the few London firms to have a substantial presence in the BVI. This allows Withers to handle private client mandates and disputes which cut across London, the BVI and other offshore jurisdictions. The team is efficient and diligent, and always responsive.’

‘Sara Jane-Knock is a first-rate private client and disputes partner. She brings her substantial experience in commercial and trusts litigation to the table, with an intimate knowledge of BVI law and court practice. She and her team are very adept at cross-border disputes with a London and BVI nexus. Jan Alessandrini also deserves praise for his legal research and document management skills.’

‘Sara-Jane Knock has been invaluable for our mutual client in a multi-jurisdictional and complex enforcement matter. She is very hands on, strategic and her grasp of the BVI system, and the players in it, has been critical to the case.’

‘I have worked with Withers BVI for over 5 years on a number of matters. In contrast to a number of firms in BVI, they have low turnover of associates and people tend to stay there, which makes for a friendly team with consistently high quality associates. They are a lean outfit, with no ‘dead weight’. They also link up seamlessly with their other teams to offer round the clock client care on a matter – e.g. I am currently working on an investment dispute where the funds subscribed in are Hong Kong-based. It is staffed by both the BVI and HK offices which works really well for both the counsel team and the client in getting support.’

‘Sara-Jane Knock is a longstanding member of the BVI legal community, who has impressive depth of knowledge about the BVI laws and procedures and real insight into how a point will play with particular judges, which is invaluable. She is very responsive and a pleasure to work with. Lauren Peaty is also impressive.’

‘Sinead Harris is easy to reach and useful when you do. She is direct on the relevant legal matter and seeks to guide you aware from those that don’t serve the main goal. She is proactive and comfortable working with a wider team of professionals. We would use her again should the need arise.’

‘Sara-Jane Knock is a superb partner who is great fun to work with and completely on top of the most complex trust disputes. She manages the relationship between the local BVI office and wider team in London and elsewhere with consummate ease.’

‘The team are really approachable and easily accessible. They are knowledgeable and offer sensible advice. Their focus remains on the end goal not winning satellite points which don’t progress the matter; they are adept as avoiding these issues.’

Key clients

Kiran Taneja

Tai Feng Investments Limited

Sinowest

Zhongshan Fucheng Industrial Investment Company Limited

Goods Technology Starting International Limited and G-Force Investors Limited

Robert Tchenguiz

Hemchand Chaturbhuj Das Ghandi

Work highlights

The firm: Withers is one of the world’s first international law firms dedicated to the business, personal and philanthropic interests of successful people, their businesses, families and advisers. With over 220 partners and more than 1,000 other staff members in 17 offices across Europe, the US, Asia Pacific and the Caribbean, Withers has unparalleled expertise in the key legal issues facing individuals, their families and their businesses. Its clients’ interests span over 100 countries and the firm has acted for 74% of the top 100 UK ‘Sunday Times Rich List’, and a significant number of the US ‘Forbes List’ of Richest Americans and the Asian ‘Hurun Rich List’.

Principal areas of work
Private client: Withers has one of the largest and most comprehensive private client practices in the UK. Whether you require advice on legal and tax structuring for your business and investments, family and business governance, tax and estate planning, immigration, pensions or help with a vulnerable person in your family, Withers will deliver tailored solutions to meet your specific needs. Many of its clients’ interests are purely domestic, whilst others are international families with interests in a number of locations. In a fast-moving and increasingly compliance focused world, the need for integrated advice that reaches across borders has never been greater. Withers’ clients have achieved success in many fields, from senior executives to multi-generational families, owners, managers and investors in private capital.

Family: As one of the largest, longest established and most experienced teams in the world, there are few situations the practice has not handled. The family team predominantly acts for high-net-worth individuals, founders and senior professionals, frequently advising on cross border and complex financial cases. A central aim is to help clients avoid a traumatic and protracted court battle, securing the best possible outcome and a fair and appropriate settlement. Withers has also been instrumental in shaping and setting precedents in family and divorce law in the UK and Hong Kong.

Dispute resolution: The firm has defended the interests of successful individuals, businesses and brands for many years, pursuing matters swiftly and robustly where necessary. With over 180 lawyers globally, Withers has an established international dispute resolution practice acting in complex multi-jurisdictional cases and is well known in the art, sport, fashion, luxury assets and natural resources sectors. Specialisms include international arbitration, public international law, tax controversy, media and reputation management, employment and regulatory, white collar investigations, professional negligence, board and shareholder disputes, insolvency and fraud. Their BVI office is a particular strength in cross border litigation, focusing on insolvency, asset tracing and recovery. With a disputes portfolio valued at $11bn, it has pioneered the use of arbitration and mediation for commercial disputes and, more recently, trust disputes.

Real estate: Withers’ real estate team has completed commercial, residential and non-profit deals for some of the most prominent individuals, families and institutions in the world, helping them to expand both domestically and internationally, offering specialist insight into both day-to-day real estate investments, as well as complex development projects. The firm’s dedicated team also assists with tax structuring, dispute resolution and finance.

Corporate: Clients benefit from the team’s depth and diversity of knowledge when advising on issues that arise over the entire life cycle of a company, from securing investment, to structuring executive equity incentives and completing mergers and acquisitions. Working with successful people and organisations around the world means that the team understands the unique legal issues surrounding private capital, which can range from investment, structuring and control of cross border investments to the corporate and personal tax issues created.

Charities: The charities and philanthropy team actively engages with and shapes legal reform and developments in the charity sector. Withers has one of the largest portfolios of charity clients in the country, acting for over 50% of the UK’s top 50 charities by income. Clients range from leading national charities to small private foundations. The firm has worked in the not-for-profit sector for decades and has one of the most comprehensive teams in the UK legal sector, who also offer US/UK, cross border charity advice.

Technology: The technology team known as Withers tech includes professionals from across the globe in areas including intellectual property, corporate restructuring, venture capital, employment law and finance. The team’s comprehensive legal offering is designed to meet the unique needs of entrepreneurs, a diverse range of investors and high growth technology companies in a number of industries including life sciences, fintech, cleantech, adtech and emerging technology sectors such as blockchain, crypto, and artificial intelligence.

Department Name Email Telephone
Chairman Justine Markovitz
Chief executive officer Margaret Robertson
Agricultural and rural affairs Bertie Hoskyns-Abrahall
Agricultural and rural affairs Matthew Woods
Art and cultural property Eleni Polycarpou
Banking Xanthe Lok
Charities Alison Paines
Charities Chris Priestley
Civil fraud Stephen Ross
Commercial litigation and dispute resolution Stephen Ross
Commercial property Jeremy Wakeham
Contentious trust and probate Stephen Richards
Construction Pauline Page
Corporate (AIM) Azlinda Ariffin-Boromand
Corporate finance Ben Simpson
Court of protection Stephen Richards
Contentious trusts and probate Paul Hewitt
Data protection Kenneth Mullen
Data protection Richard Penfold
Employment Meriel Schindler
Family Suzanne Todd
Financial services and funds Harvey Knight
Immigration Tracy Evlogidis
Intellectual property Kenneth Mullen
Intellectual property Richard Penfold
International arbitration Hussein Haeri
International arbitration Eleni Polycarpou
Life sciences Susanna Stanfield
Luxury brands Graham Webster
Luxury brands Lesley Timms
M&A Graham Webster
Partnership Tim Taylor
Partnership Paul McGrath
Personal tax, trust and probate Dora Clarke
Personal tax, trust and probate Christopher Groves
Privacy law and defamation Jo Sanders
Professional negligence Eleni Polycarpou
Property litigation Owen Talfan Davies
Public international law Hussein Haeri
Residential property Henry Stuart
Restructuring and insolvency Roberto Moruzzi
Sponsorship Richard Penfold
Tax investigations Maurice Martin
Technology James Shaw
Venture capital James Shaw
White collar defense and investigations Carl Newman
White collar defense and investigations Natalie Sherborn
Photo Name Position Profile
Elaine Aarons photo Elaine Aarons Partner. With over 35 years’ experience, Elaine is an acknowledged leader in…
Julia Abrey photo Julia Abrey Head of elder law. Partner dealing with probate, succession and post-death tax…
Pervaze Ahmed photo Mr Pervaze Ahmed Pervaze advises on all aspects of residential property in England and Wales.…
Azlinda Ariffin-Boromand photo Azlinda Ariffin-Boromand Azlinda is a Consulting Partner in the Corporate Group at Withers Worldwide.…
Sarah Aughwane photo Sarah Aughwane Sarah is a partner in the trust, estate and inheritance disputes team.…
Sarah Barker photo Sarah Barker Sarah is deeply immersed in the art industry, having worked for almost…
Claire Blakemore photo Claire Blakemore Partner. Claire’s predictions of outcome are spot on and she delivers the…
Ryan Borley photo Ryan Borley Ryan is an associate in the dispute resolution team. Ryan’s practice spans…
Nicolette  Bostock photo Nicolette Bostock Nicolette is a Partner at Withers LLP. Nicolette is an expert in…
Paul Brecknell photo Paul Brecknell Head of real estate department specialising in commercial property (in particular acting…
Alexander Breedon photo Alexander Breedon Alex advises clients on all aspects of family law including divorce, financial…
Amy Carter photo Amy Carter Amy advises charities, philanthropists and businesses on charity law and commercial matters, as…
Richard Cassell photo Richard Cassell Partner in wealth planning group specialising in US and international tax and…
Claire Christy photo Claire Christy Claire advises individuals and organisations on employment, shareholder and partnership law across…
Dora Clarke photo Dora Clarke Dora specialises in all aspects of probate, succession and tax planning, both…
Iain Cockburn photo Iain Cockburn Iain is head of Withers tech innovation and client delivery. He has…
Christopher Coffin photo Christopher Coffin Christopher is a commercial litigator with 30 years’ experience of major and…
James Copson photo James Copson Partner.  James has far-reaching experience in all areas of family breakdown, with…
Clive Cutbill photo Clive Cutbill Now occupying a management role but continuing to provide conultancy on charities’…
Ruzin Dagli photo Adv Ruzin Dagli As a dual-qualified lawyer (Turkey and England & Wales) who has previously…
Hugh Devlin photo Hugh Devlin Consultant dealing mainly with businesses in the luxury goods, fashion and retail…
Jennifer Dickson photo Jennifer Dickson Jennifer specialises in legal issues arising from the breakdown of a relationship.…
Alexandra Dix photo Alexandra Dix Alexandra is a senior associate in the trust, estate and inheritance disputes…
Sophie Dworetzsky photo Sophie Dworetzsky Sophie advises on all aspects of sophisticated private client planning, with an…
Tracy Evlogidis photo Tracy Evlogidis Tracy is a partner in the UK immigration team and leads the…
Henry Farris photo Henry Farris Henry has a broad commercial litigation practice, working on complex disputes in…
Emma Flower photo Emma Flower Emma’s practice involves advising charities on their governance and operational issues. She…
Brett Frankle  photo Brett Frankle  Brett advises clients on all aspects of family law, including divorce, cohabitation,…
Andrew Fremlin-Key photo Andrew Fremlin-Key Andrew is a partner in the litigation and arbitration team. Andrew has been…
Camilla Gambarini photo Camilla Gambarini Dual qualified as an Avvocato (Italy) and as a Solicitor Advocate (England…
Camilla Gambarini  photo Camilla Gambarini  Dual qualified as an Avvocato (Italy) and as a Solicitor Advocate (England…
Dawn Goodman photo Dawn Goodman Partner. Dawn has a wealth of experience litigating and working proactively with…
Daniel Gore photo Daniel Gore Daniel is an experienced litigation solicitor specialising in commercial disputes and arbitration. Daniel…
Michael Gouriet photo Michael Gouriet Partner.  Michael advises on all aspects of divorce and family law (including…
Christopher Groves photo Christopher Groves Partner in the funds, investment, tax and trusts group, dealing particularly with…
Hussein Haeri KC photo Mr Hussein Haeri KC Hussein is a Partner at Withers LLP in London, Head of Public…
Claire Harris photo Ms Claire Harris Claire advises on tax, trust and estate planning for individuals and families,…
Sinead Harris photo Sinead Harris Sinead is a dual qualified and practising lawyer (England & Wales and…
Paul Hewitt photo Paul Hewitt Partner. Paul specialises in domestic and international trust and succession disputes. Described…
James Hockin photo James Hockin James is a partner in the employment team. James is an adviser,…
Bertie Hoskyns-abrahall photo Bertie Hoskyns-abrahall Partner in the real estate department, specialising in the sale and purchase…
Edward Jarron photo Mr Edward Jarron Edward is a partner in the real estate team. He deals with…
Steven Kempster photo Steven Kempster Partner.  Steven specialises in the resolution of disputes relating to trusts and…
Harvey Knight photo Harvey Knight Partner.  With some 30 years’ experience, including 6 years advising the Financial…
<div>Robert</div> Kovacs photo Dr
Robert
Kovacs
Dr Robert Kovacs specialises in public international law, international arbitration and business…
Katharine Landells photo Mrs Katharine Landells Partner. Katharine has an abundance of energy, which drives her efficient and…
Joanna Lazarus photo Joanna Lazarus Joanna is a senior associate in the divorce and family team. She works on…
Lisa Lewinsohn photo Lisa Lewinsohn Lisa is a consultant in the employment team. She has a wealth…
Julian Lipson photo Julian Lipson Partner.  Julian is considered one of the best family lawyers of his…
Maurice Martin photo Maurice Martin Maurice is of counsel in the white collar defence and investigations team,…
Laura Mattar photo Laura Mattar Laura is an associate in the commercial litigation and media and reputation…
Paul McGrath photo Paul McGrath Paul is a partner in the corporate team. He advises on a…
Sarah Melaney photo Ms Sarah Melaney Sarah is a partner in the Withers tech corporate team. She has over a…
Amber Melville-Brown photo Amber Melville-Brown Amber leads the global media and reputation team. She is uniquely placed…
Tatiana Menshenina photo Tatiana Menshenina Tatiana is an experienced commercial litigator, working on both court cases and…
Patricia Milner photo Patricia Milner Patricia is co-head of our wealth planning department in Europe. She focuses…
Hugh More photo Hugh More Hugh advises employees and employers at all stages of the employment relationship,…
Roberto Moruzzi photo Roberto Moruzzi Roberto is experienced in dealing with commercial litigation and arbitration involving international…
Kenneth Mullen photo Kenneth Mullen Partner dealing with intellectual property (non-contentious); data protection; technology and outsourcing; e-commerce…
Philip Munro photo Mr Philip Munro Philip is a partner in the private client and tax team. He…
Niki Olympitis photo Niki Olympitis Niki has over 30 years of legal experience. Niki advises on all…
Alison Paines photo Alison Paines Alison is a partner in the charities team. She has over 25…
Diana Parker photo Diana Parker Partner.  Diana is well known as one of London’s divorce lawyer elite.…
Libby  Payne photo Libby Payne Libby is a partner in the employment team. A former competitive fencer,…
Adele Pledger photo Adele Pledger Adele deals with all aspects of family law, including divorce and financial…
Eleni Polycarpou photo Eleni Polycarpou Partner and co-head of International Arbitration. Eleni is a commercial litigation and…
Chris Priestley photo Chris Priestley Head of the firm’s charities & philanthropy practice.  Particular areas of expertise…
Aniruddha Rajput photo Dr Aniruddha Rajput Dr. Aniruddha Rajput is a Member of the UN International Law Commission…
Philip Reed photo Philip Reed Philip advises charities, not-for-profits and philanthropists on a wide range of charity…
Stephen Richards photo Stephen Richards Partner.  Stephen heads the trust and succession disputes team at Withersworldwide.  He…
Margaret Robertson photo Margaret Robertson Managing director. Experienced in fraud and international asset tracing (particularly offshore); termination…
Victoria Rodley photo Victoria Rodley Victoria is a partner in the corporate team. Victoria’s broad experience extends…
Stephen Ross photo Stephen Ross Partner. Stephen heads the global fraud team and is described as ‘imaginative…
Jo Sanders photo Jo Sanders Partner and head of UK media, reputation and privacy team.  Jo joined…
Pauline Sandler photo Pauline Sandler Paulina works as special counsel in the divorce and family team. She works in…
Meriel Schindler photo Meriel Schindler Meriel is head of the global employment team and advises both employers…
James Shaw photo James Shaw James is a partner in the corporate team and a leading transactional…
Natalie  Sherborn photo Natalie Sherborn Natalie is a partner in the white collar defence and investigations team with…
Ben Simpson photo Ben Simpson Ben works as special counsel in the corporate team. He advises on…
Susanna Stanfield photo Susanna Stanfield Susanna has more than 20 years’ experience as a corporate and venture…
Natasha Stourton photo Natasha Stourton Partner Natasha advises on a wide range of trust and succession disputes…
Henry Stuart photo Henry Stuart Head of residential property team dealing with high-value residential transactions of London…
Joshua Swift photo Joshua Swift Joshua is experienced in dealing with complex and high-value international and domestic…
Owen Talfan Davies photo Owen Talfan Davies Owen is a partner, and leads our real estate dispute resolution team.…
Tim Taylor photo Tim Taylor Tim is a partner in the corporate team. He advises businesses and…
Julie Teal photo Julie Teal Partner.
Alexandra Thompson photo Alexandra Thompson Alex is a senior associate in the employment team. Alexandra advises both…
Caroline Thompson photo Caroline Thompson Caroline is a Special Counsel in the litigation team. She is a…
Lesley Timms photo Lesley Timms Lesley trained with Withers and became a member of the Commercial Litigation…
Suzanne Todd photo Suzanne Todd Suzanne is one of the most highly accoladed family lawyers of her…
Alice Tomlin photo Alice Tomlin Alice advises on matters for charities, private individuals and institutions in relation…
Nicholas Vaughan photo Mr Nicholas Vaughan Nicholas is a partner in the private property team. Having undertaken his…
Ceri Vokes photo Ms Ceri Vokes Ceri is a partner in the private client and tax team. She…
Hannah Wailoo photo Ms Hannah Wailoo Hannah is a specialist succession and personal tax planning lawyer whose clients…
Jeremy Wakeham photo Jeremy Wakeham Jeremy specialises in commercial real estate. He advises investors, developers and landowners…
Richard Walker photo Richard Walker Richard is a consultant in the trust, estate and inheritance disputes team. He…
Andrew Wass photo Andrew Wass Andrew is a commercial litigator, focusing on financial services disputes. After university,…
Graham Webster photo Graham Webster Graham advises on a broad range of UK and international corporate transactions…
Penelope Williams photo Penelope Williams Partner specialising in cross-border estate planning for private clients in both the…
Peter Wood photo Peter Wood Peter has 30 years of experience and is currently the lead partner…
Matthew Woods photo Matthew Woods Joint head of the landed estates group. Focuses on the mitigation of…
Number of global partners : Over 220
Number of UK partners : 90
Number of other UK lawyers : 194
More than 60