About

Provided by Debevoise & Plimpton LLP

Debevoise is one of the preeminent dispute resolution firms in the world. Our London office boasts an exceptional commercial litigation practice, which handles the full range of commercial disputes that our clients face in the courts, both in England and elsewhere.


Our experience covers a wide range of disputes, including:


  • Managing complex litigation, including appellate work 
  • Preventative advice and risk assessments around commercial decisions and transactions
  • Leading cases in the English courts at all levels
  • Leading cross-border disputes in foreign courts 
  • An integrated offshore litigation capability


In England & Wales, our team guides clients through disputes at all stages, from initial assessment of the merits, through litigation strategy, to successful representation and advocacy of cases in front of the English courts at all levels. 


Our experience extends internationally as well, appearing n foreign courts around the world on behalf of our clients.


Our commercial litigation team in London is overseen by a team of senior lawyers.

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers
Commercial and Corporate Litigation - UK
2
Band 2
What the team is known for

Debevoise & Plimpton boasts a distinguished team with impressive international capabilities. The London office has substantial experience acting on high-value, complex cases in the Commercial Court. The team also possesses notable expertise in post-M&A disputes and is experienced at handling matters relating to corporate control. It is highly active on contractual and joint venture disputes concerning natural resources.

Work Highlights

Provided by Debevoise & Plimpton LLP
  • Debevoise & Plimpton acted for Shell International Trading and Shipping Company and Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company in four separate High Court claims for damages in relation to an oil spill which occurred 120 kilometres of the Nigerian coastline in December 2011.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers
Patrick Swain
1
Patrick Swain
1
Band 1

Patrick Swain is a leader in the field of commercial and corporate litigation, handling large-scale contractual, shareholder and company ownership disputes. He regularly represents leading corporates and financial institutions on complex litigation, often involving foreign jurisdictions.

"Patrick is one of a kind."

"He is an experienced senior litigator."

"He picked up the facts and key points quickly when coming on board the case."

Peter Goldsmith KC
3
Peter Goldsmith KC
3
Band 3

Peter Goldsmith is the chair of European and Asian litigation at Debevoise & Plimpton, as well as co-managing partner of the London office. He regularly appears as an advocate before the courts on behalf of HNW individuals and large corporate entities involved in major commercial disputes.

"Peter Goldsmith deserves his reputation as a courtroom heavyweight."

"His court performance is excellent."

Christopher Boyne
4
Christopher Boyne
4
Band 4

Chris Boyne handles a variety of highly contentious disputes relating to shareholder and joint venture agreements. He frequently represents leading private equity funds as well as major clients in the oil and gas sector.

"Chris has exceptionally strong legal and analytical skills tempered with an astute understanding of the commercial background to the matters. He also manages stakeholders extraordinarily well."

"Chris has excellent judgement and retains a high degree of objectivity."

"He is always looking to secure an expedited and commercial outcome."

Ranked Lawyers at
Debevoise & Plimpton LLP

Provided by Chambers
Filter by
Band

UK

Commercial and Corporate Litigation

Patrick Swain
1
Patrick Swain
1
Band 1
Peter Goldsmith KC
3
Peter Goldsmith KC
3
Band 3
Christopher Boyne
4
Christopher Boyne
4
Band 4

Members

Provided by Debevoise & Plimpton LLP