‘Widely recognised for its strength in construction law’, 39 Essex Chambers is well-geared to handle a wide variety of domestic and international disputes arising out of energy projects, PFI and PPP developments, and the fire safety disputes. Kate Grange KC led a large team, advising on the Grenfell Inquiry on all construction matters. Adam Robb KC has an active international practice, representing Spanish Contractor TSK Elctronica y Electricidad in a cross-border dispute involving elements of English, Finnish, and Indonesian law. Adrian Hughes KC and Karim Ghaly KC have led on a number of international arbitrations across Asia and the Middle East. Marion Smith KC appeared in the TCC leading David Hopkins examining the design if a plant in the energy from waste sector.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'This set has a very strong cohort of counsel specialising in construction law from KCs through to junior juniors.'
'Harvey Scott is a great clerk. He is quick to respond, commercial in dealing with fees and always keen to build and develop a good working relationship.'

Lawyers

Leading Silks

KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.

Adrian Hughes KC

‘Adrian’s advocacy is clear, persuasive, and well-calibrated to both technical and legal audiences. He is particularly effective in managing expert evidence and complex contractual frameworks, and he brings a calm authority to proceedings.’

Adam Robb KC

Marion Smith KC

Kate Grange KC

2026 Silks

David Sawtell KC

‘David is always on hand to assist the clients understanding on what was going on in a complicated situation, and advocated superbly at trial leading to a successful application for the clients and an excellent result for them, including on several previously undetermined points of law.’

Leading Juniors

Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.