Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘s litigation and arbitration practice is praised for its ’ability to handle disputes across various sectors with efficiency’, and acts for corporations and individuals on international mandates in the financial services, media, and maritime sectors. The team handles a range of commercial matters before the DIFC Courts, including shareholder disputes, asset recoveries, and injunctions. ‘A very strong strategist’, Matthew Showler often leads on unique, precedent-setting litigation, and is also an experienced arbitrator. Nikita Patel has a background in international arbitrations and investigations alike, and Daniel Smith has acted in commercial litigation for multinationals, insurance companies, high-net-worth individuals, and family offices.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Trowers & Hamlins has deep knowledge of the DIFC and broader UAE legal systems, both in litigation and arbitration. What stands out is the significant past experience on the ground and real familiarity with the process and particularities of work in the region.'
- ‘Matthew Showler is a very strong strategist. He sees the bigger picture and has excellent judgment. He is also convincing and firm with clients when advising taking particular course of action that is in their interests, but contrary to what they believe they should do – one of the most challenging tasks.'
- ‘A team with good experience internationally and a solid group of associates to support the partners.'
- ‘Matthew Showler: A key rainmaker, able to bring in disputes for the firm. Has a good manner with clients.’
- ‘The team’s ability to handle disputes across various sectors with efficiency, navigating different courts, and working seamlessly with counsel by combining local expertise with international standards, is a defining strength of their practice.’
- ‘I would specifically name Matthew Showler, Nikita Patel and Daniel Smith. I have worked with all of them and found them to be approachable, responsive, and highly knowledgeable. They take a realistic approach in managing client expectations, handling cases, and delivering their services, which is a rare and valuable quality.'
Key clients
- Antler Innovation Pte Ltd
- Arquitectonia
- Astra Tech Ltd
- Contessa Marine LLC
- Dan Oiknine
- Exact Power Ltd
- Millennium Capital Management Ltd
- Oleg Fidelischii
- Page Southerland Page Ltd
- Planters Horticulture LLC
- Roman Abramenko and Vadim Misevich
- Sharlene Shaikh
Work highlights
Advised the Administrator of The International Banking Corporation in its claims against Ahmed Hamad Algosaibi Brothers Company (AHAB) worth USD 2.5 billion and involving highly complex multi-jurisdictional proceedings with claims in the DIFC, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Switzerland, the USA and other jurisdictions.
Acted for the trustee and beneficiary of a trust governed by DIFC law in respect of their claim against the former trustee that has sought to claim the ownership and control of trust assets. The assets in the trust include corporate shareholdings, real estate properties, bank accounts, intellectual property rights etc. indirectly owned by the founders of a global online games business.
Acting for an individual in a dispute regarding commercial and family assets. The proceedings are taking place in the Courts located in the Gulf, Caribbean, Europe, and Southeast Asia. The value of the dispute is c. USD 1bn and involves civil and criminal law issues of the diversion of funds out of a family estate.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Daniel Smith
Practice head
Matthew Showler
Other key lawyers
Nikita Patel; Daniel Smith