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.’
‘The individuals I’ve worked with at Druces LLP stand out for their clarity, speed, and commercial mindset — qualities that are invaluable in fast-moving transactions.'
'Afsor Ullah brings a rare balance of legal precision and practical judgment, always focused on delivering solutions and getting deals over the line efficiently. Christopher Axford complements this with his strategic oversight, responsiveness, and ability to see the bigger picture while maintaining meticulous attention to detail.’
Key clients
- RZQ Finance
- Sukuk Plc
- Offa
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.
Advised Propiteer Capital Plc on a Sukuk Listing on Gibraltar Stock Exchange
Advised RZQ Finance on a Sukuk programme listing on Vienna Stock Exchange
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