'A very strong commercial set', Essex Court Chambers is adept at handling property rights, dealer commission, authenticity and purchasing syndicate disputes. Emily Wood KC is regarded for her expertise in property rights and private sale disputes. Joe Smouha KC acts for art dealerships and auction houses in disputes involving misrepresentation, breach of contract and negligence. Smouha is commended by clients as a 'star of the bar and utterly brilliant to work with'. Lauded by clients as 'extremely client friendly and highly knowledgeable,' Claudia Renton is frequently instructed in authenticity disputes, auction house matters, and high-profile cross-border cases.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Profile
Position
Has a broad-based commercial practice with a particular emphasis on appearances in international arbitration, the Commercial Court, Court of Appeal, House of Lords and Privy Council. Regularly appointed as arbitrator. In the commercial law field he acts regularly for major international corporate clients in all sectors (particularly the financial, energy, insurance and reinsurance, film, television, music, art and advertising sectors). Also acts for many governments and government-related organisations. Has appeared in arbitrations in many jurisdictions outside England and has appeared in the courts of the Cayman Islands, the British Virgin Islands and the Bahamas.
Career
Called 1986, Middle Temple; silk 2003.
Languages
French (fluent).
Education
Magdalene College, Cambridge (BA Hons; MA).
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Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Essex Court Chambers is a very strong commercial set.'