Restructuring/Insolvency

Serle Court is a highly regarded set for insolvency and restructuring matters, and is well positioned to handle cases arising in offshore jurisdictions such as the Channel Islands, the Cayman Islands and the Caribbean. Members are regularly instructed in both contentious and non-contentious matters, and are well versed in corporate and personal insolvencies. Insolvency litigation involving allegations of fraud is also a key area of strength for the set, drawing on the set's enviable reputation in civil fraud matters, and its barristers have experience appearing before both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Recent cases of note include advising individuals on the insolvency aspects in relation to the Post Office IT scandal while also continuing to act for the administrators of Lehman Brothers.

"All the clerks I have dealt with are very efficient and helpful."

Nicholas Hockney is the practice director.

Philip Jones KC
Philip Jones KC is a well-known advocate who is highly praised by market commentators for the breadth of his expertise, encompassing insolvency, fraud and financial services. He remains a particularly popular choice in complex offshore insolvency cases and counts government departments among his diverse clientele. His additional expertise in company law encompasses cases concerning directors' disqualification proceedings and winding-up petitions. "He is a star."

Philip Marshall KC
Philip Marshall KC is an impressive silk who routinely receives instructions in offshore cases in addition to complex domestic disputes. He frequently appears as an expert witness in foreign courts concerning English law issues and in arbitrations before the LCIA and ICC. He is highly recommended for his strength in restructuring and insolvency matters, which is buttressed by wider expertise in areas such as company, civil fraud and banking. "He goes to the heart of the matter and is very thorough."

Daniel Lightman KC
Daniel Lightman KC is widely admired for his vast experience and adept representation of all parties in bankruptcy and insolvency cases. He has experience representing litigants in disputes with insolvency office holders and is noted for his expertise advising on cases involving a novel or unusual point of law. "Daniel always seeks to find solutions and does creative and clever work." "His skeleton argument was very clear and persuasive."

Jennifer Meech
Jennifer Meech is a talented junior with experience appearing both led and unled in a wide range of insolvency disputes. She acts for all manner of clients including banks, corporates and liquidators. "Jennifer is a very reliable and meticulous junior." "She is very polished and technically very strong."

Lance Ashworth KC
Lance Ashworth KC is a respected silk noted for his broad knowledge of restructuring and insolvency matters. He has particular expertise in directors' disqualification cases as well as administrations of failed energy companies. "He is responsive and navigates difficult issues on behalf of the client but is also mindful of their concerns." "A very strong advocate who fights your corner." "He is a strategist who is mindful of the bigger issues and measured and focused in submissions."