Restructuring/Insolvency
Global Guide 2024 : UK
Band 4
Email address
[email protected]Contact number
(020) 7842 1200Chambers Review
Twenty Essex is noted as "a very strong set on technical and complex matters," regularly advising on both complex restructuring schemes and contentious insolvencies. The set acts for a diverse client base which includes administrators, liquidators, trustees and lenders. Cross-border insolvencies are a key area of strength for the team, and its members have experience appearing before the courts in several offshore jurisdictions such as the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands and Turks & Caicos Islands. The set has continued to attract high-profile, international instructions including advising a consortium of investors into a travel company in the Genting group as well as advising on proceedings relating to the £1 billion bankruptcy of high net worth individual Vijay Mallya.
"They are excellent, and always available on direct email or phone."
Arron Zitver, Christopher Theobald and Anthony Carroll are the practice directors.
Notable Practitioners
Stephen Atherton KC is a highly experienced silk who routinely tackles both domestic and cross-border matters. He excels in cases containing fraud elements and is a familiar face in offshore jurisdictions. He counts trustees, liquidators and administrators among his varied clientele.
"Stephen is simultaneously mind-blowingly clever and incredibly down to earth."
"Very strong both on and off his feet."
"The extent of his insolvency knowledge is phenomenal."
Blair Leahy KC has a practice centred on international and domestic insolvencies. She remains popular among clients for cases involving allegations of fraud and breach of duty. She frequently features in high-profile cases in the Supreme Court and Privy Council, and has appeared as sole counsel in major misfeasance trials.
"We go to her for her commercial judgement."
"Blair is very much on top of the detail and is also a good leader."
"She is incredibly intelligent and gives her work a forensic quality."
Tony Beswetherick KC concentrates his busy practice on corporate and personal insolvency cases, demonstrating particular prowess in those containing a fraud element. He counts administrators, liquidators and lenders among his clients.
"He gives clear advice and is well respected in the insolvency field."
"He is very approachable and user-friendly."
"He's very clear and very good at explaining concepts simply."