Commodities: Physicals
UK Guide 2025 : UK-wide
Band 3
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
(020) 7329 4422Chambers Review
Stephenson Harwood has a strong physicals practice with expertise across hard and soft commodities, including metals, minerals, coal and oil. The firm represents large international clients across the industry on a range of issues and has additional prowess in sanctions and fraud. It maintains close relationships with major trading houses. The firm's other clients include international banks, mining, power, oil and agribusiness companies.
Strengths
Provided by Chambers
"We appreciate their ability to reduce complexity by identifying the relevant facts and legal questions and providing clear answers and options for the way forward."
"The team spans the spectrum as a one-stop shop for trade-related work, from shipping to disputes to finance."
"Their responsiveness and the turnaround times on their work are incredible. This is one of their strongest points as a team, and something that really sets them apart from their industry peers."
"Stephenson Harwood provides a quick response and it has deep knowledge of the market and great authority in the legal issues involved."
"We appreciate their ability to reduce complexity by identifying the relevant facts and legal questions and providing clear answers and options for the way forward."
"The team spans the spectrum as a one-stop shop for trade-related work, from shipping to disputes to finance."
"Their responsiveness and the turnaround times on their work are incredible. This is one of their strongest points as a team, and something that really sets them apart from their industry peers."
"Stephenson Harwood provides a quick response and it has deep knowledge of the market and great authority in the legal issues involved."
Notable Practitioners
Jonathan Spearing is noted for his expertise in contentious commodities matters, with experience advising clients on arbitration, contractual disputes and fraud-related matters. His practice also spans a range of transactional matters including supply and distribution agreements.
"Jonathan Spearing is an excellent lawyer who understands the needs of his clients. He can provide useful and effective advice concerning complicated matters in a time-critical manner."
"He is a safe pair of hands and a pleasure to work with, especially in stressful situations."
"He has a strong depth of knowledge in commodities transactions."
Peter Bennett has a wealth of experience in litigating and arbitrating commodities disputes. He also advises clients on commercial contracts and trade agreements.
"Peter Bennett is really an expert in this area, and he is particularly skilled in strategy and tactics. He is always available, reliable and, above all, effective."
"Peter is ready to tackle very complex issues. He is very bright and works tirelessly for his clients."
"He is well trusted and highly appreciated."
Haris Zografakis is head of the commodities practice at the firm. He has considerable experience in dispute resolution and regularly acts for clients in arbitrations. He regularly advises on contractual disputes and has significant cross-border expertise.
"Haris is very strong on cross-border litigation."
Ranked Lawyers at
Stephenson Harwood LLP
UK-wide
Members
Provided by Stephenson Harwood LLP
Emma Skakle
Jameel Tarmohamed
Head of Department
Philip Prowse