
Praised for its ‘broad spectrum of expertise’, the team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has strong expertise advising clients in construction disputes related to fire safety defects. It handles both domestic and international disputes regarding renewable energy projects, redevelopment projects, and student accommodation projects. David Savage leads the team, and is known to act for governments, employers, contractors, and consultants. Steven Carey leads on disputes related to London refurbishment projects, while Kevin Forsyth handles wind farm disputes. Michael O’Connor and James Worthington have strong knowledge of building safety matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- With a broad spectrum of expertise, the team is built to handle the full lifecycle of legal and advisory needs. They are agile—equally adept at delivering clear, proactive guidance on simple contracts as they are at leading high-stakes tribunal cases to successful resolutions. No matter the scale or complexity, they deliver.
- James Souter - Always personable and assists in breaking down what can be very complex issues for the understanding of his clients. Provides sound advice on risk management and communicates concisely. James Worthington - Provides sound contract advice in an efficient and proactive manner. Oliver Park - Very knowledgeable, providing sound advice in an efficient and proactive manner. Mark Barley - Provides concise advice and is always able to review strategy and provide alternative ways of looking at issues and cases. He is highly skilled and is able to communicate efficiently with counsel to deliver a case at Tribunal.
- Good engagement with clients and understanding that general commercial claims are settled on a commercial basis rather than legally.
- Kevin Forsyth - Clear thinking and the ability to think holistically and focus on the key points. Understanding that regardless of the legal position, the settlement must match clients' goals. Chris Hadnutt - good and effective engagement with clients.
Key clients
- United Living Group
- RWE Wind Services (UK) Ltd
- AtkinsRealis
- Mulalley & Company Ltd
- The Howard de Walden
- GIG Fassaden GmbH
- C Spencer Ltd
- GMC
- Sipral
- Bellway Homes
- Dover Harbour Board
Work highlights
Advising the client on more than 45 projects involving fire safety remedial works pursuant to their obligations under the Self Remediation Terms.
Advising the client in defending a claim for a remediation contribution order in respect of cladding remediation work carried out by the Urban Splash group.
Advising a client in relation to the recovery of its losses associated with certain aspects of remedial works.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head
David Savage
Other key lawyers
James Souter; Michael O'Connor; James Worthington; Oliver Park; Mark Barley; Steven Carey; Kevin Forsyth
