Noted for its cryptocurrency focus, Cooke, Young & Keidan LLP is a key port of call for crypto asset clients navigating regulatory risks, advising on FCA engagement, financial promotions, and AML registration. Clients praise the team for being ‘on the cutting edge of financial services advisory and non-advisory’. The group is headed by the ’sharp and pragmatic’ Stephen Elam, who brings litigation and regulatory knowledge to complex, contentious issues, representing both crypto clients and a range of financial services corporates and individuals. Sam Roberts is recognised for his expertise in cross-border issues involving brokerage, platform compliance, and regulatory enforcement in both traditional and digital asset markets, with a focus on crypto-related litigation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Elizabeth Meade is very competent for her level and often stood in for Sam when he was not available. No negative impact was felt when she stood in.’

  • ‘CYK have carved out a real niche for themselves. They are able to provide commercial law expertise to rival any of their larger competitors. And yet they do so at a fraction of the cost. They are a true boutique outfit.’

  • ‘Sam Roberts is a star. He has a brain the size of a planet and is an astute strategic thinker. Top drawer material.’

  • ‘Jon Felce is the solicitor every client dreams of. He is extremely precise in his explanations of the law, has a commanding understanding of the law, is familiar with the crypto industry, predicts the opponent's moves, and is very sharp in drafting witness statements. He knows the right barrister to represent the case in court and the right insolvency practitioner where this is required. He also makes great use of his team, who share his dedication to the matter. At the same time, he is extremely humble, reliable, and witty, and an absolute pleasure to work with.’

  • 'Kajal Patel is an excellent senior associate, would trust her as a partner on a matter without hesitation - very clever, client-focused and tenacious.’
  • ‘One of the few UK firms, let alone boutiques, operating on the cutting edge of financial services advisory and non-advisory. CYK has a range of first-rate operators operating in the space, particularly Steve Elam and Liz Meade. As well as offering magic circle performance at boutique rates, CYK has always impressed with their litigation strategy and focus on client outcomes.’

Key clients

  • Tether
  • JNFX Limited (Giwa)
  • JNFX Limited (Ploutheos)
  • iFinex Inc (trading as Bitfinex)

Work highlights

Acting for Tether in relation to a number of cryptoasset related claims and recovery proceedings in which relief or damages is sought from Tether.
Acting for two defendants in the £6 billion claim brought by Tulip Trading Ltd, a corporate alter ego of Australian computer scientist, Craig Wright. in relation to the alleged hack of Dr Wright’s home network and theft of private keys for approximately 110,000 bitcoin and related digital assets.
Acting for JNFX in relation to claims brought by a Nigerian currency broker who has taken assignment of claims of MultiChoice Nigeria.

Practice head

Stephen Elam

Other key lawyers

Sam Roberts; Elizabeth Meade; Jon Felce; Kajal Patel