Fenwick Elliott LLP‘s multi-faceted contentious construction practice regularly represents clients in international arbitrations, litigation, and adjudications. The team boasts an extensive client list encompassing domestic and international contractors, developers, and investors. Managing partner Tony Francis acts for a diverse client base across the real estate, utilities, and transport sectors. Leading the contentious offering, Karen Gidwani is relied on for her vast experience in international arbitrations and at all levels of the UK courts. Simon Tolson has an established practice representing clients at the Technology and Construction Court and in international arbitrations, while Richard Smellie specialises in disputes arising out of high-value energy projects. Nicholas Gould acts for domestic and international clients as a mediator, adjudicator, and arbitrator. Katherine Butler supports the firm’s advice to contractor and developer clients.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Simon Tolson has a real love for construction law, and he brings an unwavering energy to all his cases.'
- 'Jeremy Glover is extremely knowledgeable, and masters the detail of all of his cases incredibly quickly.'
- 'Nicholas Gould is very charismatic and quickly builds the trust and respect needed for a good working relationship with clients.'
‘Karen Gidwani is always devoted to her cases and leaves no stone unturned. Wise, experienced and practical in her approach. Lyndon Smith is easy to work with and excellent at dealing with clients.’
‘Richard Smellie - great instinct for a tribunal; master tactician. Tom Young - unflappable, on top of everything.’
‘Lyndon Smith and Ben Smith are incredibly client-friendly and strategically astute partners.’
Key clients
- Kingspan Group PLC
- VolkerFitzpatrick Limited
- Laing O’Rourke
Work highlights
Advising Kingspan on a variety of issues concerning their products, including the implications of the Building Safety Act 2022 and the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report.
Acting for VolkerFitzpatrick Limited in a large dispute in the Technology & Construction Court.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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
Karen Gidwani; Tony Francis
Other key lawyers
Nicholas Gould; Jeremy Glover; Richard Smellie; Lyndon Smith; Ben Smith; Toby Randle; Simon Tolson; Tom Young; Lucinda Robinson; Huw Wilkins; Katherine Butler