Harbottle & Lewis LLP‘s commercial litigation team acts for a diverse range of clients, including multinational corporations and public companies, to private individuals and entrepreneurs. With expertise in the media, technology, and entertainment sectors, the team is able to leverage these strengths to assist clients with a cross-departmental approach. Sandi Simons leads the group with a wide range of experience. Simons is supported by a strong team, with Louis Castellani noted for his work advising international businesses and individuals on cross-border litigation and enforcement issues, and Lizzie Williams well-regarded for her work in the technology sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They have a huge bench of talent.’
‘Commercial awareness and efficiency.’
‘Excellent rapport with clients.’
‘Louis Castellani - always a twinkle in his eye and a new strategy in his mind.’
‘I have worked with a number of individuals at Harbottle & Lewis and on many cases. They are unfailingly diligent with sound litigation instincts. Their correspondence is always a pleasure to put before a Judge.’
‘Louis Castellani has excellent strategic vision, with a constant eye on the client's ultimate commercial interests. He also has an excellent feel for how a judge is likely to react to particular points.'
Key clients
- iSAM group
- Fabric Ventures Group
- NBC Universal
- Live Nation & Ticketmaster
- Virgin Atlantic Airways
- Victoria Beckham Limited
- Tutreke OU
- Gordon Ramsay Holdings International Limited
- Liverpool Football Club and Athletic Grounds Limited
- Maybourne Hotels Limited
Work highlights
Instructed by the majority shareholders of ZAUM UK Ltd (ZAUM), as respondents to a petition brought by the minority shareholders, seeking for the company to be wound up on the just and equitable ground under s122(1)(g) Insolvency Act 1986.
Acted for all five client companies, which are part of the LiveNation-Ticketmaster group of companies, defending a claim recently issued against them by Performing Right Society Limited and PPL PRS Limited (PRS), in respect of alleged under-accounting of royalties payable under “Tariff LP” (“live popular”, encompassing all pop and rock music), in connection with live performances of music at festivals and concerts in the UK.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Sandi Simons
Other key lawyers
Louis Castellani; Lizzie Williams; Matthew Leverton