Dedicated solely to litigation, Advocates Smith Taubitz Unsworth Ltd focuses on commercial litigation and regulatory concerns alike. The group is led by the experienced advocate Vicki Unsworth, whose broad practice covers matters under the Proceeds of Crime Act, freezing orders, asset disputes, and a range of other contentious civil and commercial claims, as well as Darren Taubitz whose practice spans cases concerning road traffic offences to white-collar crime. Lydia Mulligan was promoted to director in January 2025, and Victoria Watson qualified as an Advocate in December 2024 and assists with litigation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Vicki Unsworth is a no-nonsense litigator who gets the job done efficiently and with directness, which gets results.'
- 'Astonishing energy levels and really commercial and sensible advice.'
- 'Vicki Unsworth and Darren Taubitz have created a really thriving and energetic team. They are very client focused. They're also very focused on training and getting the best out of the newer lawyers.'
- 'The firm provides both excellent criminal and civil litigation services. Its lawyers have excellent client service skills, are very down to earth, approachable and knowledgeable.'
- 'Very high quality team specialising in POCA matters. Vicki Unsworth is a standout practitioner.'
- 'Vicki Unsworth is outstanding: versatile, clever, pragmatic, able to turn her hand to anything. A very cool head in a crisis.'
Key clients
- Sondica Inc
- DWF Claims
- MRP International Limited
- VTB Bank
- Cornerstone Architects
- Liberty Global Group
- Begbies Traynor
- Sulby Collaborations Limited
- Illumination International LLC
- JNS Gaming Limited
Work highlights
Achieved the discharge of a restraint order issued under the Proceeds of Crime Act, involving £45m for a Chinese national who appears to have been racially profiled.
Secured disclosure following the issuance of a property freezing order against a local e-gaming company.
Advising Sondica Inc in relation to a negligent misstatement, negligence and misfeasance in public office claim against Isle of Man Government and a UK property consultancy firm as part of a tendering process.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Vicki Unsworth; Darren Taubitz; Lydia Mulligan
Other key lawyers
Victoria Watson