Simmons & Simmons is praised for its 'technical expertise and real knowledge and understanding of their clients’, with extensive expertise in shareholder disputes and joint venture matters. Novel cases are another strength of the team, notably acting on the first opt-out class action to reach trial in the UK. Patrick Boylan heads a team noted for its ‘combination of technical excellence, cross-disciplinary strength, and culture of pragmatic, client-focused advice’. Minesh Tanna stands out for his tech expertise, particularly related to AI, while Adam Brown is praised for ’leaving no stone unturned’. Tech specialist Jayne Bentham is also key to the practice, along with Eleanore Di Claudio and William Dunning.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Adam Brown is an absolute master of the smallest detail in any case. Leaves no stone unturned. Knows the papers better than counsel. Always comes up with a great strategy.’
‘The Simmons & Simmons commercial litigation team delivers magic-circle level strategy and advice, while remaining pragmatic and outcome-oriented.’
‘Extremely able team with technical expertise and real knowledge and understanding of their clients.’
‘Adam Brown is a superb litigator - exceptionally intelligent with a real understanding of his clients and what they want to achieve.'
‘The commercial disputes team at Simmons & Simmons stands out for its combination of technical excellence, cross-disciplinary strength, and a culture of pragmatic, client-focused advice. The team comprises exceptionally high-calibre lawyers, from talented associates to stand-out partners, all of whom are adept at managing the most complex and sensitive matters with assurance and clarity.'
‘I have worked most closely with Adam Brown, who stands out as a clever, pragmatic, and highly effective partner. He has a clear understanding of the competing demands of a major commercial dispute—balancing the expectations and resourcing needs of the client, the internal Simmons team, and the external counsel team with great skill. His strategic oversight and calm, commercial judgment are invaluable in complex matters.'
Key clients
- Hashim Ali Alesayi
- Three former shareholders of MP & Silva Holding SA
- Princess Aljawarah Bint Ibrahim Abdulaziz Al Ibrahim (the “Princess”)
- Petrofac Limited
- Bergen Asset Management LLC
- BT Group
- Sushovan Hussain – the former Chief Financial Officer of Autonomy Corporation plc
Work highlights
Successfully defended a prominent Saudi businessman in a US$55m High Court claim against an entity established by his brother, relating to the ownership and control of a third of their late father’s estate.
Representing three former shareholders in the defence of claims interlinked with a complex high-value claim concerning allegations of fraud, bribery and unlawful means conspiracy in the awarding of international media rights in sports.
Defending Petrofac against actions threatened by two claimant groups, each comprising c.100 shareholders, for alleged breaches of statutory duties to shareholders.
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.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Patrick Boylan
Other key lawyers
Minesh Tanna; Adam Brown; Jayne Bentham; Eleanore Di Claudio; William Dunning