Competition Law

Thomas Cassels is well regarded for defending clients in competition damages claims, including acting on high-profile collective action proceedings. He also represents clients in challenges to CMA decisions and applications to strike out damages claims. He acts as the head of the firm's competition litigation practice.

"He's got lots of ideas and is willing to be thoughtful and creative but also sensible and pragmatic for the client."

"He is a soft-spoken but very perceptive and insightful litigator, who has a talent for distilling complex litigation matters down to the most critical components to deepen understanding and drive decision-making."

Bruce Kilpatrick represents clients in CMA investigations into potential breaches of competition law and in phase II merger clearance reviews. He also has experience advising on market studies, approval under the NSIA and appeals before the CAT.

"He is really user-friendly and takes time to understand the business."

"Bruce's advice is very sensible and he clearly knows his area of law particularly well."

"He is  just a very down-to-earth chap and a really lovely guy."

"Bruce does a fabulous job identifying merger control risks, and has a relentless focus on gathering the key evidence. He then strikes the right balance on calling the risks: Bruce gives proper risk-based advice."

Natura Gracia rises in the rankings this year following strong feedback and impressive work advising on CMA merger reviews. In addition, she has notable experience in investigations into possible anti-competitive conduct and assists clients with the UK's new subsidy control regime. She often acts on matters involving the providers of natural resources.

"She's been a pleasure to deal with. She is very smart, has got good points and knows what's important."

"She has a fantastic knowledge of our sector and interactions with the regulator so is able to provide great insight."

"She shows strong strategic leadership and is a clear and effective communicator, who quickly builds trust with clients and collaborators."

Sarina Williams enters the rankings this year on the back of impressive work defending clients in high-profile class actions before the CAT. She often acts on damages claims arising from investigations into possible abuses of dominance.

"She is the kind of person you want to trust."

"She is absolute dynamite in terms of taking on big, heavyweight cases."

"She is a skilled and astute litigator, who has a real command of all the salient aspects of CAT litigation and strategy."