Construction

Keating Chambers, described by an interviewee as "possibly the finest construction set," is widely regarded as a leading construction law set and is well known for the quality of both its outstanding silks and its accomplished juniors. Members of Keating act in complex domestic cases in the TCC, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court, as well as in high-profile cases and arbitrations abroad. The set acts for clients across the construction sector in projects ranging from major energy and infrastructure developments to commercial and residential schemes. "They are fully able to handle the high-value technical disputes," says one source, while another notes that they are "especially alive to the commercial impacts of the legal issues." Recently, members of the set acted for both the claimant and the defendant in Martlet Homes v Mulalley, the first post-Grenfell case to go to trial.

"The clerking team is one of the key points of difference between Keating Chambers and other construction sets. They really understand how we operate."

"James Luxmoore, joint director of clerking, is excellent, as is Rob Garvan, practice manager. Nothing is too much trouble for them."

"No matter whether you are interacting with a senior or junior clerk, you are met with the same high level of service."

"Keating's clerks are always available to pick up queries quickly and make barristers available at very short notice."

Alexander Nissen KC
Alexander Nissen KC is a widely praised silk who acts for prominent employers and contractors in a range of disputes spanning the breadth of the construction industry. He has vast experience in high-value, multiparty matters at both the national and international levels. He is regularly instructed to represent clients in the TCC and the Court of Appeal, as well as in adjudication and arbitration. He handles litigation involving a broad array of construction projects, including those in the energy, infrastructure and housing sectors. "I think he is one of the finest barristers at the Bar and one of the biggest brains at the Bar." "A top-class advocate." "He provides masterful advocacy that really helps cases reach an earlier resolution than they might otherwise have done." "Alexander is peerless. He has a brilliant mind and is truly exceptional intellectually, strategically, tactically and commercially."

Simon Hughes KC
Simon Hughes KC has a standout reputation given his sterling work on prominent cases at both the national and international levels. He receives instructions in high-value litigation, adjudication and international arbitration cases running the full gamut of construction issues. He is highlighted for his deep knowledge of construction contracts, especially within the FIDIC framework. "A razor-smart and charming advocate." "One of the very best." "A tour de force, the best of the best at the construction Bar." "A very thorough advocate who's at the top of his game." "Simon Hughes is a first-class operator with a scary intellect."

Adrian Williamson KC
Adrian Williamson KC is a highly regarded silk with considerable experience representing contractor clients in adjudications and before the TCC. He has particular expertise in cases containing a professional negligence element, and also frequently handles high-value delay and defect claims. He also sits as a deputy High Court judge in the TCC. "Adrian Williamson KC is clear-thinking, cuts straight to the point, absorbs facts and information, and reaches conclusions swiftly."

David Thomas KC
David Thomas KC is a top-class silk with a sterling practice both in the UK and overseas. He is acknowledged as a leading expert on NEC contracts, and has significant experience appearing before the Court of Appeal, TCC, ICC and Dubai World Tribunal. He has been instructed in landmark construction cases in the UK, the Far East and the Middle East. "David's great. He has a nice, calm, authoritative manner, which is great for clients to turn to him for guidance on strategy." "He's wonderful to work with and gets brilliant results. David has always got his eye on how to make progress in a matter and get our client out on top." "David has a lot of experience of working in the Middle East. He gets the commercial aspects and nature of clients here."

Piers Stansfield KC
Piers Stansfield KC is a noteworthy silk whose practice includes frequent instruction in large and complex TCC cases. He is particularly active in disputes pertaining to infrastructure construction. He receives instructions from major contractors as well as employers in the public and private sectors. "Piers provides excellent input, comprehensive thinking and strong drafting skills." "Wonderful with clients, being considerate and thoughtful and masterful on his feet." "Piers has the calmness of a Jedi master. He is utterly unflappable, no matter the circumstances. Brilliant service, brilliant expertise and brilliant commerciality from a brilliant advocate."

Richard Coplin
Richard Coplin is an excellent junior with a growing practice in both domestic and cross-border matters. His prior employment as an engineer allows him expert insight into professional negligence cases. He is also well versed in adjudication claims, and particularly enforcement issues. He is sought out to handle a wide array of construction cases, including those arising in the energy sector. "He turns work around very quickly and is very good at drafting and strategy." "He's excellent - experienced, really strong on his feet and really pleasant to work with."

Simon Hargreaves KC
Simon Hargreaves KC is an outstanding silk who is regularly instructed in high-profile cases across a range of sectors such as residential and energy. He frequently acts in TCC proceedings, adjudications and Court of Appeal matters. He has additional experience acting for clients involved in construction-related professional negligence disputes. "Friendly, approachable, clear-thinking with a balanced approach and excellent communication skills." "A go-to silk for heavyweight and difficult disputes, he's absolutely superb for PFI/EfW disputes." "He's one of my favourite people to deal with at the Bar. He's committed, enthusiastic and good fun to work with."

Tom Owen
Tom Owen is a widely acclaimed junior who regularly appears as sole counsel before the TCC. He receives excellent feedback for his strong advocacy in construction disputes. He has experience acting in significant enforcement disputes. "He's very responsive, very good and gives great advice. Top marks for Tom all round, he's a great barrister and is my first choice if available." "Tom Owen is an absolute diamond in the construction Bar. He certainly deserves the accolades he's getting." "Tom provides a very high level of service, he is incredibly responsive and his advocacy is exceptional."

Vincent Moran KC
Vincent Moran KC is an excellent practitioner with a reputation for producing high-quality trial and tribunal work. His practice includes a focus on construction-related professional negligence and he regularly acts in large-scale cases in the TCC. He is particularly active in construction disputes involving energy and PFI projects. "Vincent Moran is a tenacious, hard-working advocate. He is very proactive in his preparation and you never have to worry that he will be underprepared." "Really a go-to. He's robust and innovative." "Vincent is very direct-speaking. He doesn't sit on the fence and calls it as he sees it, which is his best quality." "Vincent Moran KC is always my go-to. He always delivers, and his easygoing charm makes him a pleasure to work with."

Alexandra Bodnar
Alexandra Bodnar is an impressive junior who is increasingly being instructed as sole counsel in highly complex construction disputes. She offers expertise across litigation, arbitration and adjudication proceedings and regularly appears in the TCC. She offers particular expertise in insurance issues pertaining to construction projects. "Alex is one of our go-to juniors. She's extremely user-friendly and commercial, and a first-class advocate." "I've been very impressed with her thoroughness, speed of service and ability to grasp very complex issues in a short space of time."

Jonathan Selby KC
Jonathan Selby KC is an impressive silk who draws praise for his top-notch work in high-value matters, particularly before the TCC but also regarding adjudications and international arbitration. He has appeared before both the Court of Appeal and the Privy Council. He is singled out by clients for his excellent technical ability and strategic insights. "Jonathan Selby is absolutely brilliant. His advice is unparalleled and he is brilliant intellectually; you know he's left no page unturned." "An absolute star. He's a great advocate, extremely strong on the law and at the heart of the strategy." "He is extremely approachable. His advice and presentation of advice is very user-friendly and clear."

Lucy Garrett KC
Lucy Garrett KC is an acclaimed silk who is regularly instructed on high-value construction litigation and arbitration worldwide. Her sector expertise includes areas such as energy and shipbuilding, and she has also been active in disputes involving property development. She impresses clients and peers alike with her persuasive advocacy. "Lucy finds things that others don't and approaches cases in a way that changes things for the client." "Extremely user-friendly and excellent with clients." "Lucy was extremely user-friendly, very responsive, and she really grabbed the bull by the horns." "An absolute favourite - a dream to work with, the perfect client-facing counsel option, with frank, honest and insightful advice."

Marc Rowlands KC
Marc Rowlands KC has a robust construction practice and particular expertise in the transport and infrastructure sectors. He is noted for his experience advising on disputes involving rail infrastructure projects and receives praise for his strong experience in rail-related matters. He has significant experience both domestically and abroad, and has been called to the Bar of the Bahamas, the Dubai International Financial Centre and the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. "Marc is a class act." "One of the most able and bright KCs."

Rachael O'Hagan
Rachael O'Hagan is a gifted junior regularly instructed in high-value litigation and arbitration for a diverse client base including major contractors and government bodies. Her body of work includes significant matters in energy, infrastructure and residential development. She is increasingly active as sole counsel in large disputes. She offers specialist expertise in nuclear projects. "Rachael is a joy to work with. She's very smart and good on her feet, and she also works really well with her instructing solicitors." "Rachael sees the case as a whole, focusing on the most important points and achieving the outcome the client wants."

Abdul Jinadu
Abdul Jinadu is an experienced practitioner with a strong adjudication element to his practice. He regularly appears in litigation and arbitration and has advised an array of clients including public sector bodies, developers and contractors. He has been particularly active in adjudication proceedings. "Abdul is a very excellent advocate." "Abdul is very, very good. He has an excellent international presence."

Alice Sims
Alice Sims is a quality practitioner who acts in high-profile cases in the TCC and before international tribunals. Her practice spans a wide range of matters across the construction sector, with clients in the energy and commercial development spheres, among others. "She's good. A strong and thorough drafter."

Ben Sareen
Ben Sareen is lauded by instructing solicitors for his high-quality construction practice. He frequently represents major contractors in litigation and arbitrations, both in the UK and abroad, and is especially proficient in professional negligence cases. "Ben has the gravitas and the mind of a silk with a number of years more call than him. Brilliant, effective and a pleasure to work with."

Brenna Conroy
Brenna Conroy is a well-regarded barrister who is highly sought after for construction disputes. She is increasingly taking on significant litigation, adjudications and international arbitration. She is especially active in disputes arising from energy and transport infrastructure projects. "Brenna is like a general. She manages and organises a large team in complex cases extremely well. It's her ability to see the big picture and manoeuvre everyone into position in a short period of time that makes her so good." "A fantastic team player and brilliant advocate. Always willing to get into the detail, but without losing sight of the bigger picture."

Charles Thompson
Charlie Thompson is an impressive junior specialising in construction contract disputes in addition to his insurance practice. He has already gained expertise in cases relating to major infrastructure projects domestically as well as experience in Middle Eastern work. "Charlie Thompson is a highly effective senior junior. He has an affable demeanour which makes him very engaging to work with, but this belies a sharp intellect that he uses to great effect. A barrister for the modern age."

David Sheard
David Sheard is a highly regarded junior with a broad practice covering construction law and related professional negligence disputes. He has exceptional knowledge of fire safety disputes, including those arising from cladding. "David's primary strength is intellect - he is unbelievably clever."

Gaynor Chambers
Gaynor Chambers offers expert representation to claimants and defendants in complex construction disputes, drawing on her additional experience acting as an adjudicator. She is especially well versed in litigation involving water-related construction projects and disputes arising under the New Roads and Street Works Act. "Gaynor's prior experience as a building surveyor is a great asset when handling construction disputes, and her practical expertise is great at instilling confidence in clients."

Gideon Scott Holland
Gideon Scott Holland is an experienced junior whose practice includes frequent instruction in contractual disputes. He has been active in arbitration and litigation, and his extensive contractual expertise extends across JCT, ICE, NEC and PFI formats. As well as being an experienced advocate in the TCC, in the Court of Appeal and in arbitrations, he is frequently engaged as an adjudicator and mediator. "Gideon is very responsive, client-focused and quick to grasp facts. He thinks matters through and takes a clear and thoughtful approach." "A very strong all-rounder who always provides an excellent level of service and is quick to grasp complex matters. He is easy to approach and discuss difficult matters with."

James Thompson
James Thompson is a strong junior often instructed in high-value domestic construction cases and international arbitrations. He has been active in construction cases arising in the energy and property development sectors. He is increasingly instructed as sole counsel in TCC and other ADR proceedings. "James Thompson can be relied on to focus on the issues and to be able to distil complex contracts quickly." "James is a highly skilled senior junior and is always on top of the detail."

Justin Mort KC
Justin Mort KC is regularly sought out by major contractors in final account disputes. He is noted for his extensive experience in adjudications. He is regularly called upon in international disputes regarding energy projects. He has a wealth of experience acting before the TCC and the Chancery Division. "Justin Mort is an extremely strong all round advocate." "He has detailed knowledge of the case law; he's a walking encyclopedia." "A persuasive advocate who tears through detail to get to the points that really matter. First port of call for injunctions."

Paul Bury
Paul Bury receives instructions in a wide range of construction disputes as junior and as sole counsel. He has extensive experience in the TCC, including in cases relating to high-value infrastructure and development projects. "Paul Bury is consistently brilliant and a safe pair of hands who you know will never let you down. He always seems to get the right answer and explains his views clearly and concisely." "An excellent junior who is on the fast track to silk. Extremely strong in all areas and provides first-class client service." "We have found him to be very thorough. He quickly picks up the issues and is very approachable for us and clients. He has a manner which puts clients at ease while getting to the heart of the issues." "Paul is an integral part of any team. He's always willing to get into the detail and provide useful insight, not only on the legally correct route but also on the one that furthers a client's commercial interests."

Sarah Hannaford KC
Sarah Hannaford KC is a gifted silk with a diverse practice that includes a noted specialism in construction procurement. She has considerable experience acting for public sector bodies in disputes and adjudications. She also has a strong track record in the energy sector. Her experience includes advising on high-value delay and professional negligence claims. "Sarah is technically excellent and a very strong advocate. She's a very clear thinker, concise with excellent presentational skills." "A lucid and ferocious opponent." "Sarah is very good, well respected, very easy to understand and quick to cut to the chase. She's also very commercially minded."

Sarah Williams
Sarah Williams is a popular junior with a strong practice that often sees her instructed in high-value TCC litigation and international arbitration. She has a niche strength in engineering design-related disputes. Her construction practice has also seen her advise on infrastructure, utilities, housing and energy projects. "Sarah is not afraid to roll up her sleeves and do the heavy lifting, and she regularly thinks outside the box to strengthen the client's position." "Sarah has a canny ability to digest and simplify complex, intricate matters into straightforward, accurate drafting." "She is an invaluable asset in that she brings top-notch and highly skilled construction expertise to any litigating party that she acts for."

Sean Wilken KC
Sean Wilken KC is a formidable silk with a diverse practice who regularly undertakes high-profile construction disputes including complex international arbitration and litigation. His clients include public entities, contractors and developers. He regularly handles cases in the infrastructure and energy sectors and is recommended for his intimate knowledge of PFI projects. "Sean is extremely good at finding arguments; where you need a bit of genius in coming up with arguments, Sean excels." "Sean is technically and strategically excellent."

Tom Coulson
Tom Coulson has significant experience as junior or sole counsel in TCC proceedings. He is also active in domestic adjudications and arbitrations and is well versed in an array of standard form construction contracts. "Tom is a first-rate barrister. Not only is his technical analysis always spot on, he is able to deliver advice, whether in writing or verbally, in exactly the right way. He is exceptional." "An extremely able junior." "Tom is super clever, hard-working and a delight to work with." "Dazzlingly brilliant. He's such a smart guy and a pleasure to deal with."

Calum Lamont KC
Calum Lamont KC is a highly acclaimed barrister who is frequently instructed in large construction disputes both nationally and in the Middle East. He has experience in both litigation and arbitration proceedings. His excellent practice sees him advise on disputes arising from numerous high-profile infrastructure projects. "Calum is a force to be reckoned with. He is a calm influence and gets to the nub of the issues in complicated claims." "Calum is approachable and commercially aware, with the technical expertise to match." "A brilliant advocate; if you need someone to cross-examine to save your life, he's your man."

Emma Healiss
Emma Healiss is a rising star in the construction law field. She is a highly sought-after junior both as sole and junior counsel. She has broad experience of construction, energy and procurement law proceedings both in the TCC and at various adjudication hearings. "Emma is absolutely fantastic. She does exceptionally good written work for us and excellent advocacy." "She is extremely capable and instantly and seamlessly joined the team and made a difference quickly. She's very astute." "Emma is very user-friendly, great on the strategy, and her drafting is brilliant." "She is an excellent young barrister with a great future. She is tenacious and never gives up."

Fionnuala McCredie KC
Fionnuala McCredie KC is a well-regarded silk with a notable construction procurement practice who has acted in a number of valuable adjudications and TCC litigation. She often handles construction cases with professional negligence and insurance elements. "Fionnuala is excellent. She is so willing to fight the cause and fills clients with confidence to do whatever it takes."

James Frampton
James Frampton has a rapidly growing reputation and has notable expertise in contractual disputes and defect claims. He has additional experience in construction adjudications and adjudication enforcement hearings. "James is a first-rate barrister who always provides an excellent level of service." "James is great on the detail, with excellent drafting and the ability to distil documents to the important points." "James has proven to be excellent in terms of how he presents and communicates with clients and experts."

Jennie Wild
Jennie Wild is highly experienced in handling both UK-based and international construction disputes, especially in relation to energy, transport and infrastructure projects. She is well versed in acting as sole counsel, and her work has seen her tackle topical issues such as cladding and fire safety defects. "Jennie is amazing. She gets through a lot of complicated detail quickly."

Krista Lee KC
Krista Lee KC has deep knowledge across a range of construction matters. She has extensive experience of appearing before the TCC. She is noted for her deep understanding of NEC3 contracts. She is very active in energy, transport infrastructure and large commercial developments. "Krista Lee brings a technical understanding to her cases which means it's super easy to work with her. She's brilliant." "I've been really impressed with her incredible intellect and her personability. She's a brilliant strategist and her pleadings are excellent."

Matthew Finn
Matthew Finn is a specialist construction and engineering barrister who already has considerable experience in both the High Court and Court of Appeal. He has expertise in disputes arising in relation to contract terms, planning permissions and PFI arrangements. "A great adviser and a really impressive advocate. He is an unbelievably persuasive orator." "Matt is a pleasure to work with, provides excellent insight on strategy and has an impressive manner with clients."

Samuel Townend KC
Samuel Townend KC is a gifted barrister who is increasingly entrusted to act as sole counsel on high-value disputes in the TCC and arbitration proceedings. He frequently acts on behalf of engineering companies and contractors, and is especially renowned for his expertise in construction disputes involving insurance elements. "Samuel Townend is very focused on achieving the best end results for his clients. He is very personable and adopts an in-depth approach to all matters on which he is engaged." "Sam is excellent and the judges like and trust him."

Thomas Lazur
Thomas Lazur is a respected junior with a wealth of experience advising on construction disputes involving transport infrastructure and energy projects. He advises on domestic and international construction matters, and receives instructions from both contractors and employers. "Thomas is an excellent advocate who grasped the niche issues extremely quickly and offered excellent suggestions and advice on a complicated dispute." "A brilliant guy to work with."

Callum Monro Morrison is developing a strong construction practice. He regularly appears in the High Court and has experience at appellate level. He has particular expertise in complex PFI and cladding disputes. "Callum has provided excellent service." "A developing junior with real potential to become a star." "An excellent team player, Callum delivers clear, concise advice and can always be relied upon to put forward robust arguments even in difficult situations."

Harriet Di Francesco
Harriet Di Francesco is well versed in a wide variety of specialised legal disciplines which complement her construction practice, including adjudication and international arbitration, professional negligence and procurement. She brings to bear substantial experience at the TCC and in adjudication enforcement. "Harriet is definitely a star of the future. Her drafting is extremely good and she gets to grips with difficult issues and provides great service." "Harriet is very thorough and insightful. She picks up on the little details and predicts problem areas to be resolved before they arise." "Harriet is very approachable and provides timely and constructive advice."

Harry Smith
Harry Smith centres his practice on disputes in the construction and energy sectors, with work relating to infrastructure, healthcare and residential developments in particular. He is highly experienced in TCC and High Court proceedings along with adjudications. "Harry is a tenacious and ferocious advocate." "Harry is an exceptionally capable barrister. He is excellent technically, both on paper and on his feet, and is very responsive." "Very knowledgeable and user-friendly."

Paul Buckingham KC
Paul Buckingham KC is an excellent barrister whose science and engineering background informs his legal practice. He regularly acts in a range of highly technical and complex construction disputes. His sterling work in the energy and renewables sectors, both in the UK and abroad, is particularly noteworthy. He is experienced with handling international arbitration as well as proceedings in the TCC. "Paul's knowledge of not only the law but also the technical engineering aspects of matters is impressive and a valuable asset for the client." "Paul is brilliant on heavily technical disputes; he picks up stuff very, very quickly."

William Webb KC
William Webb KC frequently acts in complex construction disputes. His practice includes high-value domestic litigation and international arbitration. His experience includes cases in the Court of Appeal as well as the TCC. "Will has been absolutely fantastic." "He's very bright."