Information Technology
UK Bar Guide 2025 : London (Bar)
Band 2
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
(020) 7404 0102Chambers Review
Atkin Chambers is host to several highly respected practitioners in the field of IT contractual disputes. Its barristers offer deep experience in matters associated with large-scale technology projects, including breach of contract and early termination, and frequently represent global IT service providers and major consumers in the energy, telecommunications and public spheres. Members of the set have recently appeared in Capita Life v Pearl Group Management Services, a case concerning payment for insurance administration support IT services. Capita claimed for £16 million in unpaid invoices, while Pearl Group counterclaimed for £60 million in respect of alleged failures in the service it received.
David Barnes is the director of clerking, while Justin Wilson is the senior clerk.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The clerks provide a smooth service."
"The clerks provide a smooth service."
Notable Practitioners
David Streatfeild-James KC is a very highly regarded practitioner who has acted for some of the most significant players in the IT market. He is praised for his ability to represent a broad range of clients in this sector including contractors, government bodies and private employers. He additionally acts as an arbitrator and is experienced in cases involving overseas parties including foreign governments.
"David is phenomenally intelligent and is very diligent."
James Howells KC is especially recognised for his skill in handling energy and power disputes on an international scale, with attendant technological and technical complications. His practice also covers IT issues such as software licensing and data protection, and he is well versed in alternative dispute resolution methods such as arbitration and mediation. He is an accomplished adviser to overseas companies.
"James is a go-to silk. He is very bright, very easy to work with and very knowledgeable."
"James is very calming influence and advises in a straightforward, accessible way. He also very much gets involved in the detail of a case."
"James is phenomenal. His ability to show complete mastery of the detail while at the same time being able to help articulate and explain the bigger picture is truly outstanding."
Patrick Clarke's work in this field is particularly focused on disputes involving project-based IT outsourcing agreements. He is especially noted for handling high-stakes work involving public authorities and global technology companies.
"Patrick Clarke is very experienced and is able to cut to the heart of the matter. He is also a pleasure to work with - clients love him."
"His legal knowledge is impeccable and he produces great arguments that are punchy but not overstated."
Nicholas Maciolek is recommended for his skill in handling contentious IT and telecommunications cases. He expert at guiding clients faced with contractual issues stemming from distressed projects.
"Nicholas is very responsive and hard-working. He is also meticulous in his preparation and great on the detail."
"Nicholas is a very good junior counsel who is able to process large volumes of information rapidly. He is very proactive and easy to work with."
"He provides timely advice and produces excellent drafting."