Clifford Chance LLP maintains a standout presence in administrative and public law, with a longstanding reputation in complex judicial review and high-level advisory work. The firm acts for both public and private sector clients across a wide spectrum of policy areas, offering strategic guidance on judicial reviews and navigating public law risks in the context of major corporate transactions and infrastructure projects. The team is also well-versed in advising on government engagement, including compliance with lobbying and electoral law requirements. The practice is co-led by Samantha Ward, who brings deep experience in commercial litigation, regulatory investigations, and high-stakes judicial review. Jessica Gladstone co-leads alongside her, contributing recognised strength in public law, international arbitration, and public international law.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Good combination of subject matter expertise and broader commercial awareness.’
‘Oliver Carroll is great.’
‘They are the subject matter experts on election laws and political donations and are our go-to firm for such matters.’
‘Jessica Gladstone and Oliver Carroll have all advised us on various matters, and their insights have been invaluable.’
‘Fantastic team, especially for complex judicial reviews and/or public law cases that raise commercial and regulatory issues.’
'The team has a great range of expertise across a broad range of topics.'
‘Oliver Carroll punches well above his level of seniority. Happy running cases himself. Great legal knowledge and is dedicated to his clients.’
'The breadth of the team is excellent.'
Key clients
- Sizewell C
- Belize Bank Limited
- Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
- Network Rail
Work highlights
Acting for a major international investment bank on judicial review proceedings against HMRC concerning complex retained EU law and tax issues.
Advising on the development and financing of the new Sizewell C nuclear power station, including on judicial review risk, freedom of information and environmental regulatory compliance.
Acting for a sports trade association in negotiations with a government enforcement agency over the rollout of new guidance and enforcement of existing rules in the context of UK labour law.
Lawyers
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
Samantha Ward; Jessica Gladstone
Other key lawyers
Oliver Carroll