The team at Gowling WLG is primarily based in London, but draws on the experience of the firm’s other private wealth practitioners in Singapore and Toronto. Practice head Catherine Naylor has a particular focus on complex multi-jurisdictional cases. The department has a solid reputation for its experience in all aspects of trust litigation for its predominantly international client base. Andrew Witts concentrates on international and offshore cases, while James Sidwell is another eminent practitioner.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Very very good at what they do, without shouting it from the rooftops. Safe hands.’
‘Stand out partner is Catherine Naylor. Cool calm and collected, totally unflappable, and an absolute delight to work with. Knows her stuff and quietly controls the case.’
- 'The practice is particularly strong, combining deep technical knowledge with a highly strategic and client-focused approach.'
- 'What sets the team apart is their ability to handle complex, high-value disputes with clarity and confidence, while also being attuned to the sensitive personal dynamics that often accompany these matters.'
- 'Catherine Naylor is a standout practitioner, known for her ability to navigate complex, emotionally charged disputes with both authority and empathy. She’s legally sharp, tactically astute, and consistently brings clarity and calm to high-pressure situations.'
- 'James Sidwell brings strong intellectual rigour and commercial awareness to the team. An excellent communicator, he combines strategic thinking with a practical, solutions-focused approach.'
Key clients
- TMF Group (Equity Trust (Jersey) Limited)
Work highlights
Successfully defending Equity Trust (Jersey) Limited, a subsidiary of TMF Group, and one of its former employees, who was a director of English asset-holding companies that formed part of one of the Z Trusts, in proceedings brought by the asset-holding companies (acting by their liquidators), including to the Court of Appeal.
Acting on a case concerning a Greek shipping family in proceedings against Bermudian trustees and others.
Defending proceedings brought by a Jersey trustee alleging unfair prejudice.
Practice head
Catherine Naylor
Other key lawyers
Andrew Witts; James Sidwell