Hill Dickinson LLP is known for its ‘fantastic legal expertise with a commercially astute approach’. The firm has vastly experienced practitioners with in-depth knowledge across the full range of commodities markets. Jeff Isaacs, who is the market’s leading expert on sugar matters, co-leads the practice with Paul Taylor, whose recent work includes significant sanctions-related matters, as well as his usual flow of oil and gas trading disputes. ’One of the top names for GAFTA and FOSFA arbitration’, Darren Wall is also a prominent adviser on cases concerning ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ores and concentrates, and he frequently acts in LME arbitration and High Court litigation. Claire Messer is an expert in commodities and dry shipping proceedings, and Amy Walmsley has a rapidly growing profile across the commodities space. Trade and commodity finance specialist Mark Aspinall is also called upon to assist with contentious matters. Clients also pick out Lucy Wickham as ‘reliable, efficient and definitely going places’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'Hill Dickinson's commodity and shipping team is a tight-knit group - not part of an overly large firm - but approachable and responsive. Each partner and associate are highly professional and knowledgeable and instills confidence.'
- 'Jeff Isaacs is head of the group and assured in his abilities. The complete package. Darren Wall- without doubt an all-rounder whose knowledge and people skills are outstanding. Lucy Wickham- reliable, efficient and definitely going places.'
‘The team at Hill Dickinson is second to none. The have an unrivalled approach; fully engaging with the customer and the case, giving pragmatic, high quality advice with an excellent understanding of the industry. Their strengths include outstanding customer engagement, a pragmatic approach both to the issue and to the depth of the advice given. Particularly the high level of understanding and engagement are unrivalled.'
- ’Darren Wall- Darren's approach is 100%. He has an excellent understanding of the industry, outstanding commercial acumen and gives exemplary advice. Amy Walmsley- Amy gives high-quality, solid advice with an excellent understanding of the industry. Lucy Wickham - Lucy is highly capable and is an up-and-coming star.’
‘Paul Taylor is an outstanding commodities lawyer, understanding and meeting clients' needs.’
‘I work with Olga Newman - she is a professional. Her consultations and works are very detailed and clear. She answers all my questions. Friendly, polite. I can see her individual approach to each client.’
Key clients
- Addax
- ADM
- COFCO
- Czarnikow
- Gerald Metals
- Gunvor
- HDI Global
- Wilmar
- MS Amlin
- Nibulon SA
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.
Andrew Meads
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Amy Walmsley
Practice head
Jeff Isaacs; Paul Taylor
Other key lawyers
Darren Wall; Claire Messer; Amy Walmsley; Mark Aspinall; Lucy Wickham; Olga Newman