Boasting in-depth expertise across a range of construction and engineering disputes and arbitrations, Keating Chambers is considered a ‘second to none’ for transport infrastructure, oil and gas, high-rise developments and energy related disputes with an ’exceptional bench’. Simon Hughes KC disputes arising out of energy construction projects in the region, while Marc Rowlands KC has extensive experience in rail related disputes. Timothy Elliott KC and Krista Lee KC are both experienced construction arbitrators and have an active Middle East practice. Jennie Wild and James Thompson handle energy, infrastructure and airport related disputes and James Frampton acts in projects in Qatar and the UAE.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Keating Chambers' specialist ADR Clerk Ollie Goldsmith is helpful, charming and completely on the ball.'
  • 'Sam Kennett and James Luxmoore stand out - approachable, knowledgeable, organised and hard working.  Exceptional service received from them and a pleasure to work with.'
  • 'Also very positive.  Stand out individuals are Sam Kennett and James Luxmoore. They are very approachable, they understand the issues and logistics of the case and are alive to the client's position and concerns.'
  • 'The Clerks room is stellar. James Luxmoore and Will Shrubsall are terrific leaders. They are quick to reply and always offer helpful and timely guidance.'
  • 'Keating Chambers are up there with the best specialist construction chambers.'
  • 'Keating is second to none in terms of construction sets.  They have an exceptional bench and the clerking team has an excellent knowledge of each barrister's strengths; they are always able to recommend the right person for the job.'
  • 'Keating Chambers are very helpful and proactive. James Luxmore is very good to deal with.' 
  • 'Keating Chambers is one of our go-to sets where we are instructed on a large construction project or infrastructure dispute. There are a number of strong barristers whether for counsel instructions or for appointment as arbitrators.'

Lawyers

Leading silks

KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.

1
Richard Harding KC
'Richard is a top quality lawyer and a very capable and experienced arbitrator. He is a real expert on construction and engineering law and an accomplished Arabist.'
1
Simon Hughes KC
‘An excellent grasp of construction, a superlative strategic brain, a persuasive advocate and user friendly.’
1
Marc Rowlands KC
1
David Thomas KC
David is a superb legal advocate with deep legal and technical expertise in construction and energy disputes. He has a wealth of experience in handling complex and high-value claims, arbitrations and adjudications. David is a delight to work with and rolls up his sleeves to get the job done. He is responsive, collaborative and supportive, and always strives to deliver clear, concise and effective advice and advocacy.’
2
Calum Lamont KC
'His cross examination is excellent, particularly with technical experts. Really knows his subject matter.'
2
Krista Lee KC
She provides terrific guidance, and is always accessible. In a hearing she comes across as measured but fierce. She is incredibly likeable, and a pleasure to work with.'
2
Justin Mort KC
'Justin is a high-quality operator. He is able quickly to master large amounts of complex detail and to identify the most effective and persuasive way of presenting that detail to support the client's position. He is very user-friendly with a strong work ethic, quickly assimilating himself into both the solicitor and client teams and working with them to best present any case.'
2
Marcus Taverner KC
'Marcus has endless enthusiasm for the task in hand and brings a wealth of experience of complex international construction disputes. His youthful energy belies a wise intelligence, which is just what you need to steer a steady path through the challenges of high-value, multi-issue, modern-day construction dispute resolution.'

2023 Silks

KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.

1
Paul Buckingham KC
1
William Webb KC

Leading juniors

Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.

1
James Thompson
'James is an excellent advocate able to develop a rapport with tribunal's and witnesses to produces good outcomes for clients. He is very accessible day to day and has developed an excellent working relationship on each of the disputes on which I have worked with him.'
1
Jennie Wild
'She is mature and calm, has excellent attention to detail, and deals well with clients.'
2
Paul Bury
2
James Frampton
Conscientious, dedicated and produces good work.'
2
Abdul Jinadu
Abdul is very diligent and hardworking. Abdul is quickly able to home in on the key issues and prepare for them.'
2
David Sheard
'David's written submissions were excellent. His technical knowledge and ability to understand highly technical and complex engineering issues was first class. David has a very calm and measured approach but gets his point across during cross examination.'