39 Essex Chambers

A ‘go-to’ set for construction and arbitration work, 39 Essex Chambers boasts arbitrators experienced in a wide range of contexts, including acting as sole-arbitrator or chair of a tribunal. Adrian Hughes KC is well-versed in arbitrations at the LCIA, SIAC and DIFC-LCIA, with a particular focus on construction and energy. Peter Rees KC is regularly appointed in cases under ICSID rules. A former Master of the Rolls, Lord Dyson is appointed across a broad array of disputes and has been particularly sought after for sports arbitrations. Lindy Patterson KC focuses on energy and construction disputes in the Middle East, Scandinavia and Africa. Karim Ghaly KC, Marion Smith KC and Richard Wilmot-Smith KC are other key names.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'The Chambers are very proactive and manager their barristers well.'
'39 Essex Chambers is one of my go-to sets of chambers for construction and arbitration work.'
'They are a strong set with an excellent reputation.'
'The clerks are a pleasure to deal with. Professional and approachable.'

Lawyers

Leading arbitrators

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.

David Bateson

He is highly intelligent, extremely hardworking, and absolutely determined to ensure that the parties not only have but feel as if they have had a scrupulously fair and considered hearing of their disputes. He has the relatively unusual ability to synthesise extremely complex and extensive evidence and submissions into succinct, comprehensive and clearly expressed decisions.‘

Adrian Hughes KC

‘A careful, considered and fair arbitrator and with the breadth of experience in construction and infrastructure disputes makes Adrian a go to for large scale arbitration.’

Peter Rees KC

‘When it comes to presiding arbitrators in complex construction disputes, Peter is one of the best.'

Lord Dyson

Karim Ghaly KC

‘Karim is one of the smartest members of the construction Bar, with a work ethic to match. Without doubt, a future leader in the field of international construction arbitration.’