Leveraging its ‘exceptional depth of legal knowledge’, Clifford Chance LLP specialises in complex matters involving parallel criminal and civil elements, including sanctions breaches, tax fraud, bribery and money laundering. The team advises major corporates and financial institutions on cross-border investigations and enforcement actions, supported by integrated forensic accounting capabilities and a well-established global network. Luke Tolaini heads the team, drawing on his ’technical expertise’ and ‘calm, strategic perspective’ to assist on internal investigations and defence in regulatory and criminal proceedings, with experience engaging with UK and foreign enforcement agencies and securing DPAs. Michael Lyons leads the firm’s sanctions and export control practice, supporting on financial crime investigations, enforcement and compliance, while Christopher David focuses on cross-border matters involving fraud, bribery and corruption.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Client satisfaction: NPS ®
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Excellent team of talented individuals who are experienced and with great vision.'
- 'What sets this practice apart is the exceptional depth of legal knowledge across the team. Their ability to grasp complex issues quickly and provide clear, strategic advice makes them a true partner in legal matters, not just a service provider. They have strong commercial acumen, attention to detail, and a client-oriented approach.'
‘Chris David is superb. A real delight to work with.'
'High-profile practice with strong cross-jurisdictional capabilities.'
‘I think it's one of the best practices in this sector in the world. I recommended them for work on two occasions, very successfully. You get all the might of a major international law firm with remarkable deftness of touch in their London team.’
'Diverse experience, excellent time-sensitive actionable advice. Michael Lyons from the London office is very responsive and brings value to each project we work on together.'
‘The individuals I work with at this firm consistently demonstrate a rare blend of deep legal expertise, commercial awareness, and personal commitment that truly sets them apart from competitors. What distinguishes them is not only their technical excellence but also their ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a clear, pragmatic manner, always with our business objectives in mind.'
‘The CC team distinguishes itself through its strong international footprint, combined with a deep bench of experienced practitioners who bring commercial acumen and legal rigor to every matter.’
‘Luke Tolaini brings not only technical expertise but also a calm, strategic perspective that we deeply value, particularly in high-stakes situations. His leadership fosters a culture of integrity, innovation, and trust that permeates the entire team.’
'Luke Tolaini is one of the very best manages of very complicated hostile litigation in the sector and his team walk in his footsteps.'
Key clients
- National Westminster Bank Plc
- Credit Suisse
- An international commodities trading company
- Serco Group Plc
- Glencore plc
- InterGen
- Swedbank
- Lloyds
Work highlights
Acting for an international company in a complex multijurisdictional internal investigation into allegations of bribery, corruption and sanctions breaches.
Acting for a global financial institution in a large-scale investigation in the Netherlands into historic tax reclaims, involving the UK-based entity and coordinated with colleagues in Amsterdam.
Acting for several global financial institutions based in London in relation to the German 'Cum-Ex' investigation and prosecution into historic tax reclaims, alongside colleagues in Frankfurt.
Lawyers
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.
Practice head
Luke Tolaini
Other key lawyers
Michael Lyons; Christopher David