Company
UK Bar Guide 2025 : Western (Bar)
Band 1
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
(0117) 930 9000Chambers Review
Guildhall Chambers is one of the leading sets on the Western Circuit, and its members act in a wide range of company and commercial disputes. The barristers regularly act in cases connected to shareholder disputes, breaches of directors' duties and insolvency matters. As well as company directors and shareholders, the team also advises those involved in partnerships and unincorporated associations. The set has significant experience handling unfair prejudice disputes and director disqualification proceedings. Recent work includes MDW Holdings Ltd v Norvill & Norvill & Norvill, an appeal regarding damages relating to a company share purchase warranty dispute. A source reports: "Guildhall Chambers barristers' advice on complex matters is always delivered in considered and methodical manner."
Joe Stayte is the practice manager.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"The clerks are very responsive and they are always able to accommodate and respond quickly, which is a big plus."
"The clerks are very responsive and they are always able to accommodate and respond quickly, which is a big plus."
Notable Practitioners
Hugh Sims KC is a highly regarded commercial and insolvency silk with significant expertise in company disputes. He has extensive experience in unfair prejudice disputes, derivative claims and breach of fiduciary cases, acting both for and against directors.
"Hugh is a star. He is a very strong barrister."
"Hugh is highly regarded and intelligent."
Richard Ascroft is well respected for his deep experience in company law disputes, with particular expertise in shareholder disputes. Ascroft's practice covers unfair prejudice petitions, challenges to the validity of distributions to members, and internal mismanagement cases.He is also adept at handling claims involving directors' duties.
"Richard provides excellent written advice and he delivers well in person."
"Richard gets on incredibly well with clients and his advocacy is very good."
"The service Richard has provided is fantastic. He is extremely thorough and very confident."