Ashurst has ‘one of the market’s strongest and most experienced teams', especially in relation to energy international arbitration. Particularly experienced in gas pricing and supply disputes, the London team’s recent mandates include several major final merits hearings. Former global international arbitration head Matthew Saunders is an expert in renewables and oil and gas conflicts; Philip Chong is ’an outstanding lawyer for energy sector disputes’; and Dyfan Owen acts in proceedings under a range of arbitration rules. The next line of practitioners are Emma Johnson, who has renewable energy sector expertise; commercial and investor-state dispute specialist, Myfanwy Wood; and Christina Lawrence, who primarily focuses on natural resources-related international arbitrations. Additional names to note are Elinor Thomas, Maria Scott and Lucy McKenzie, along with Aimee Ward, Joseph Harrington and Matthew Harnett. Harsh Hari Haran was made partner in May 2025, while Thomas Karalis and Amy Cable left during July 2024 and July 2025, respectively.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Emma Johnson brings a calm authority and strategic focus that sets the tone for the team.’
- ‘Emma Johnson and Georgina Warden are both highly engaged, setting up regular sessions with the client and expert team to get to the heart of the issues. Their diligence and clarity allow clients to provide robust, independent advice, which in turn helps the client make informed decisions on a range of complex matters.’
- ‘Dyfan Owen is very knowledgeable, prompt, and brings a useful commercial approach to matters.’
- ‘Philip Chong provides thorough and thoughtful legal advice, respects and understands clients' positions and requirements, and is a highly trusted professional adviser.’
- ‘Philip Chong is an outstanding lawyer for energy sector disputes. He is intelligent, professional, and highly experienced. Friendly and approachable, he pays great attention to details and responds swiftly to clients' needs.’
- ‘They always respond promptly and efficiently, providing clients with timely advice and suggestions. They respect the client's views, understand their situation and needs, and offer thoughtful, comprehensive and meticulous support.’
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.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Matthew Saunders
Other key lawyers
Philip Chong; Dyfan Owen; Emma Johnson; Myfanwy Wood; Christina Lawrence; Elinor Thomas; Maria Scott; Lucy McKenzie; Aimee Ward; Joseph Harrington; Matthew Harnett; Harsh Hari Haran; Georgina Warden