Dispute Resolution: Commercial (Bar) | Global

3 Verulam Buildings' market-leading reputation arises out of its involvement in headline-grabbing commercial cases. It is well regarded in the fields of banking and finance, financial services and fraud. Recent highlights include major cases: Skatteforvaltningen (The Danish Customs and Tax Administration) v Solo Capital Partners LLP (in special administration) and others, a £2 billion Commercial Court fraud claim bought by the Danish Tax Authority; Various claimants v Serco Group, a securities group action brought under Section 90A of FSMA; and The Eclipse litigation, which concerned a failed film tax relief scheme. One source comments: “They really are the go-to set for banking and finance disputes.” Another adds: “From top to bottom, the set features responsive, commercial and, most importantly, highly talented barristers.”

Stephen Penson and Stuart Pullum are the joint senior practice managers.

Twenty Essex has excellent commercial litigation capability and barristers who are experienced in arguing matters in all of the highest courts. Barristers here have skill in a number of areas, including intellectual property, insurance, shipping, international arbitration and energy, and are particularly noted for their expertise in private international law. Recent examples of the set's work include: the Russian airline claims (insurance and reinsurance claims following Russia's invasion of Ukraine); Diag Human v Czech Republic, an international commercial court action; and Deutsche Bank AG v Sebastian Holdings Inc, a cross-border banking dispute. One solicitor remarks: “Twenty Essex is one of the best commercial sets. It has significant depth and breadth across the spectrum of commercial issues and sectors.”

Arron Zitver, Christopher Theobold and Anthony Carroll are the Practice Directors.