Under the leadership of Matthew Taylor, Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP handles complex and high-profile commercial disputes, with additional focus on reputation management matters, guiding clients through critical PR issues. Taylor brings years of commercial dispute resolution expertise, advising clients on contractual claims, including those arising from M&A transactions, commercial fraud, warranty, and negligence claims. Philip Duignan is a key contact for shareholder disputes, professional negligence, procurement issues, and business protection litigation, with strong experience in the aviation and airports sector, as well as consumer and retail, while Thomas Whitfield is noted for handling complex disputes involving reputational and sensitive information issues, with experience in breach of confidence, defamation, fiduciary and directors’ duties, public interest winding-up petitions, and misfeasance in public office.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- The team stands out for its combination of strong technical litigation capability and practical, commercially grounded advice. They are responsive, easy to work with, and good at distilling complex issues into clear options for decision-makers. Potential clients would want to know that the team is personable, sensible in its judgment, and focused on achieving workable outcomes rather than escalating issues unnecessarily.
- The ES team helped support my public authority's in-house legal function at short notice in a very large piece of expedited litigation. Their client skills were exceptional, including their availability and their calm and thoughtful presence.
- The commercial litigation team at this firm has consistently provided pragmatic, business-focused advice that reflects a clear understanding of both legal risk and commercial realities. They are approachable and responsive, offering guidance that is grounded, practical, and tailored to the needs of the business rather than overly theoretical or procedural. They take the time to understand the wider context in which decisions are being made and are always willing to discuss issues informally without immediately formalizing instructions or treating every interaction as chargeable time. This builds trust and encourages open dialogue, which in turn leads to better outcomes.
- Matt Taylor, in particular, stands out for the quality of his support. He is trusted for his judgment. He knows when to push a point and when a more measured approach is appropriate, which helps avoid unnecessary escalation. The strength of the relationship with the firm is based on the relationship with him, and I rely on him with confidence.
- Luisa Zukowski is an up-and-coming partner with excellent client management skills and strong instincts.
- Matt Taylor is a standout - a brilliant litigator. Other notable members are Rebecca McCourt and Shanie Glen.
- Tom Whitfield is a first-rate litigator and is extremely good at finding the right approach for different disputes, balancing risk versus reward. He always thinks deeply about the issues faced and combines tactical savvy with exceptional client care and responsiveness.
- The team is extremely proactive, commercially aware, and excellent tactically.
- Mark Howarth is a first-rate partner, and Alex Cook is also excellent. Tom Whitfield is also extremely good.
- Tom Whitfield (partner) displays outstanding leadership and sure handling of complex disputes, especially those engaging contentious questions of corporate reputation or confidential/privileged information. He is charming, rigorous, and deeply intelligent. Sam Bumby (senior associate) is notable for his commerciality, excellent client handling, and rigorous coordination of a litigation team.
Key clients
- Morrisons
- Dyson
- Aviva
- Air Liquide
- Santé Global
- Next
- Thames Water
- IATA
- adidas
Work highlights
Advising Santé Global LLP and Mornington 2000 LLP on proceedings against the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with a total claim value of £500m.
Advising the Serious Fraud Office on Commercial Court proceedings seeking USD270m.
Advising K.D. Pharma Bexbach GmbH on its English Commercial Court claims against Apotex Inc., valued at USD57m.
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
Matthew Taylor
Other key lawyers
Philip Duignan; Thomas Whitfield


