Druces LLP is well-versed in Sukuk issuances and Shariah capital markets transactions. The team is relied on by a diverse clientele, comprising banks, financial institutions, family offices, and high-net-worth investors. Leadership is split between Antony Cotton, Chris Axford and Suzanne Middleton-Lindsley. Cotton regularly advises sukuk issuers on Shariah-compliant finance structures, while Axford is particularly noted for his cross-border expertise, spanning the UK and the Middle East. Middleton-Lindsley is well-positioned to advise on Islamic finance real estate matters. Afsor Ullah, who joined from Hill Dickinson in November 2024, is recognised for his expertise in acting for Middle Eastern investors.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Partner level advice available where needed. Well resourced team. Very proactive and responsive. Constantly trying to help find solutions and add real value to the deal execution process.’
- ‘The Islamic finance team at Druces LLP stands out for its commercial approach, deep technical knowledge, and ability to deliver clear, Shariah-compliant solutions in complex transactions. Much of this is driven by Afsor Ullah, whose leadership, responsiveness, and ability to bridge legal precision with real-world deal execution make the practice uniquely effective compared to others in the market.’
Key clients
- RZQ Finance
- Sukuk Plc
Work highlights
Advised the Bank of London and The Middle East plc in relation to a number of commodity Murabaha transactions ranging from £10m to £30m in value.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Antony Cotton; Chris Axford; Suzanne Middleton- Lindsley
Other key lawyers
Afsor Ullah