Chambers & Partners

A summary of Essex Court Chambers rankings in the current directory

Essex Court appears as a set in the rankings for 10 practice areas
In addition, individual members are recognised, but not the set, in a further 5 areas
The set is once again in the sole top tier of “leading sets” for Public International and International Arbitration: General Commercial & Insurance . We are joint first for Commercial Dispute Resolution;
The set is now ranked in the second tier of the “leading” tables for 5 categories: Energy & Natural Resources; Insurance; Shipping & Commodities; Fraud (Civil) and Indirect Tax
The set was also ranked “leading” but third tier for Banking & Finance and Employment

Commercial Dispute Resolution (Band 1)

Andrew Hochhauser QC (Band 2)
Claire Blanchard QC (Band 5)
David Davies (Band U)
David Foxton QC (Band 1)
Edmund King (Band 3)
Emily Wood (Band U)
Geraldine Andrews QC (Band 5)
Gordon Pollock QC (Band 2)
Huw Davies QC (Band 5)
James Collins (Band 5)
James Willan (Band U)
Jeffrey Gruder QC (Band 5)
Joe Smouha QC (Band 1)
John Lockey QC (Band 4)
Nathan Pillow (Band 4)
Paul Key (Band 5)
Paul McGrath QC (Band N)
Paul Stanley QC (Band 4)
Richard Jacobs QC (Band 3)Richard Millett QC (Band 3)
Ricky Diwan (Band 4)
Stephen Houseman (Band 3)
Vernon Flynn QC (Band 2)

THE SET Essex Court Chambers' contingent of "hard-working and committed" barristers is of the highest academic pedigree, and they "consistently produce excellent advice and results." Consequently, the set is frequently instructed by the City's leading solicitors on some of the most high-profile cases to be brought before the commercial courts, such as the Fiona Trust litigation and the Cherney v Deripaska case. The set's members have further appeal as they are supported by a "uniformly excellent" clerking team, led by the "efficient, well-organised and responsive" David Grief.

SILKS Joe Smouha QC excels at whichever area of commercial law he turns his hand to, and is counsel of choice for a number of the City's top solicitors. They say he is "an incisive advocate," who offers "first-class legal and commercial analysis," as well as an excellent client manner. Commentators agree that David Foxton QC "has deserved his stellar rise through the ranks to the highest echelons of the Bar." Combining his "formidable intellect" with an "extremely user-friendly approach," he epitomises the modern barrister who is favoured by judges and clients alike. His current caseload includes such heavyweight disputes as Cherney v Deripaska and Total v Shell. Also on the up, Vernon Flynn QC is someone you "always want on your side." Instructing solicitors appreciate the fact that he "puts his heart and soul into fighting a case" whilst remaining "accessible and enjoyable to work with." His diary has scarcely been empty over the last year, something which could also be said of the "incredibly diligent" Andrew Hochhauser QC. Though Hochhauser is perhaps best known for his superb employment practice, his "ferocious cross-examination skills" are also frequently sought out in commercial disputes.

Head of chambers Gordon Pollock QC has a wealth of experience in complex commercial litigation. He recently acted for Yukos Capital in its dispute with Rosneft concerning the enforcement of awards obtained in other jurisdictions relating to USD600 million of unpaid loans. Commentators report that Steven Berry QC is "so quick to understand a problem and find an answer to it that a case can be over before it's even begun." He regularly appears before both English courts and international arbitral tribunals. Richard Jacobs QC is said to be a "go-to leader" and "top-class advocate" for complicated, big-ticket disputes. He "has an excellent feel for how an argument will pan out before the court and provides clear and concise answers." Similarly impressive, Richard Millett QC "cuts to the heart of a matter" and "combines excellent legal analysis with a flair for courtroom performance." His noted areas of expertise include banking and financial markets, insurance and reinsurance, insolvency, energy, and media and entertainment disputes. Stablemate Paul Stanley QC is thriving as a new silk. An "intellectually superb" barrister, he is highly sought after for his "excellent written work" and "clear opinions."

With his excellent responsiveness and strong teamwork skills, John Lockey QC has established a strong following amongst solicitors. "He comes off the fence and provides a robust opinion that you can stick to," enthuses one interviewee. Geraldine Andrews QC is another "great team player" within chambers. Sources say she is "extremely quick on her feet and presents her arguments precisely." Like so many at the set, she has a diverse commercial practice spanning shipping, reinsurance, banking and finance, joint venture and shareholder disputes. The "commercially minded and hard-working" Huw Davies QC adopts a "hands-on", collaborative approach that eases the passage of litigation for clients. In one recent standout matter, he acted for the claimant in Digicel v Cable & Wireless, a case concerning allegations of breach of statutory duty and conspiracy in relation to the recent liberalisation of telecoms industries in various Caribbean territories. Jeffrey Gruder QC continues to impress through his involvement in high-value commercial cases. He is currently acting for a major US bank in obtaining anti-suit injunctions against Indian parties. Rival practitioners note that Claire Blanchard QC is a "fiery advocate" who "puts her opponents under pressure." Her core area of expertise lies in shipping and insurance disputes. Fully deserving of his recent elevation to silk, Paul McGrath QC is endorsed as a "real heavyweight" and "a leading light for commercial fraud work." He has been acting for Boris Berezovsky in his attempts to recover over USD1billion from the estate of Arkadi Patarkatsishvili.

JUNIORS The "hard-working and diligent" Edmund King is a first port of call for complex matters, bringing "a clear-thinking head in difficult situations." His commercial litigation expertise spans fraud, breach of fiduciary duty, economic torts and sale of goods issues. Co-tenant Stephen Houseman is a "highly commercial and responsive" junior noted for his "clear and succinct pleadings." He has recently been instructed to represent one of several defendants facing allegations of fraud by Kazakhstan's BTA Bank. Ricky Diwan's background as an attorney with a leading US firm has instilled in him great commercial acumen. He excels at multi-jurisdictional litigation, as well as international commercial arbitrations. Nathan Pillow's strong track record for producing polished advocacy is borne out through his involvement in some of the Commercial Bar's highest-profile cases. Following his representation of the defendants in the long-running Fiona Trust litigation, he has been acting for the claimant in BTA Bank v Ablyazov & Others.

James Collins is another favourite amongst solicitors, who are quick to endorse him as a "clever, commercial and user-friendly" junior. Paul Key also makes the grade this year, having been singled out for his "thorough and detailed advice" and client commitment. He has established an impressive case portfolio, with one recent example being his involvement in the Cherney v Deripaska case. At the junior junior end, David Davies is a top pick. He has remained particular busy of late advising on large-scale fraud litigation. Another up-and-coming talent worth keeping an eye on is the "intellectually brilliant" James Willan. Interviewees report that he "quickly assimilates complicated material and works out the right answer."Emily Wood similarly impresses with her "quality drafting and analysis of complex issues." On top of this, she demonstrates a tremendous ability to work seamlessly as part of a team.

International Arbitration: General Commercial & Insurance (Band 1)

David Foxton QC (Band 1)
David Joseph QC (Band 2)
David Scorey (Band 2)
Graham Dunning QC (Band 1)
Jeffrey Gruder QC (Band 2)
Joe Smouha QC (Band 1)
Paul Key (Band 2)
Paul Stanley QC (Band 4)
Richard Millett QC (Band 3)
Richard Siberry QC (Band 3)
Ricky Diwan (Band 1)
Sam Wordsworth (Band 1)
Steven Berry QC (Band 4)
Toby Landau QC (Band 1)
Vernon Flynn QC (Band 3)

Essex Court Chambers boasts an impressive collection of international arbitrators, none being more distinguished than V V Veeder QC. Unanimously seen to be "one of the stars" of the field, he continues to be in high demand for commercial and investment arbitrations across the world. Toby Landau QC is also one of the most popular arbitrators on the circuit. Sources say he has a "sophisticated understanding of different cultures" and "easily relates to whoever he might be on a panel with, whether from the English Bar or elsewhere." Testament to his profile in the market, Landau is currently UK delegate to UNCITRAL and was closely involved in the drafting of the new UNCITRAL Rules 2012. The highly regarded Michael Collins QC splits his time between the UK and the USA. He was recently a party-appointed arbitrator in a major insurance arbitration subject to California law, which led to a four-week hearing in Hong Kong. Counsel endorse Richard Siberry QC as an "authoritative, measured and courteous" arbitrator who "always gets to the right result." He has an impressive body of experience in energy-related disputes. Commentators report that Ian Hunter QC is a robust arbitrator who "doesn't suffer fools gladly." He earns particular praise for his understanding of insurance and reinsurance matters. Joe Smouha QCimpresses market observers with his wide-ranging expertise, which spans financial services, insurance and reinsurance, media, joint venture and shareholder disputes. In the last year, he has been appointed as arbitrator in more than ten cases relating to ICC, LCIA and ad hoc proceedings. New Zealand-based David Williams QC has also been in high demand of late. A "charming and decisive chairman," he inspires confidence in clients and counsel alike by firmly guiding proceedings forward whilst also retaining a relaxed atmosphere. Martin Hunter is a man of great experience, having acted as co-arbitrator, sole arbitrator or presiding arbitrator in hundreds of cases over the last 35 years.

Public International Law (Band 1)

Alan Boyle (Band 3)
Amy Sander (Band U)
Dan Sarooshi (Band 2)
Franklin Berman QC (Band S)
Malcolm Shaw QC (Band 2)
Sam Wordsworth (Band 1)
Vaughan Lowe QC (Band 1)

THE SET Essex Court Chambers is home to a considerable number of excellent public international law (PIL) barristers. With this "critical mass," sources acknowledge that the set is in "a league of its own" in the field, and well placed to handle a wide array of matters. It has a formidable reputation for investment protection work, and also regularly advises on land and maritime boundaries, state and diplomatic immunities, human rights and international trade law.

SILKS Vaughan Lowe QC is consistently singled out as one of the star performers at the PIL Bar. "Sharp and clearheaded," he elicits widespread praise for being a "wonderful advocate." Not only does he enjoy a "fantastic practice, both as arbitrator and counsel," he is also frequently called upon for advisory work. He further combines this active practice with his role as Chichele professor of public international law at Oxford University. Lowe has core expertise in international investment law and the law of the sea. Co-tenant Malcolm Shaw QC has a wealth of experience advising foreign governments and international corporations on territorial disputes and human rights issues. He often appears before the ICJ and recently advised the Republic of Serbia on the legality of the declaration of independence of Kosovo. Franklin Berman QC is long established in this field and attracts particular commendations as a "fabulous arbitrator." A former legal adviser to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, he has considerable knowledge of state and diplomatic immunities, as well as state responsibility, the law of treaties and maritime delimitation matters.

JUNIORS Sam Wordsworth is said to be "a real star," with one silk from another chambers asserting: "He is the best junior I have worked with in any field." An "incredible advocate," he is highly sought after for his prowess in investor-state arbitrations. In other PIL work, he represented the UK government in the ICJ's advisory opinion on the legality of the declaration of independence of Kosovo. Sources say Dan Sarooshi "has encyclopaedic knowledge and also takes a very pragmatic approach with clients - he is solution-oriented and will deliver on accelerated timelines." He has proved himself particularly adept at WTO matters, recently advising Tesco on regulatory disputes with two WTO member states. Alan Boyle "inspires confidence" in those who instruct him due to his "ability to meet any challenge with a robust and persuasive line of argument." He primarily advises on international environmental law, the law of the sea and international investment law. Amy Sander enters the rankings as she is a "very bright and hard-working" PIL junior. She previously taught the subject at Cambridge University and has developed a profile in the field, appearing in such matters as Georgia v Russia, a case heard before the ICJ involving the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

Energy & Natural Resources (Band 2)

Claire Blanchard QC (Band 3)
David Foxton QC (Band 1)
David Mildon QC (Band 3)
Gordon Pollock QC (Band 2)
Richard Siberry QC (Band 4)
Simon Bryan QC (Band 2)

THE SET This impressive chambers is a natural choice for heavyweight energy and natural resource litigation. The set is able to draw on its considerable expertise in commercial litigation and its extensive experience of arbitration to handle complex and sophisticated energy disputes. The clerks here are as highly regarded as the barristers and were picked out for particular praise by solicitors since they are "very responsive and know their barristers well - when you visit you always get a smooth and professional service."

SILKS David Foxton QC is a highly regarded silk with an enviable practice which takes in oil and gas disputes in both the UK and emerging markets. He is involved in many leading cases and was recently instructed by Total to act in Total Downstream UK Ltd v Shell Ltd, a case concerning economic loss arising from the Buncefield explosion. Simon Bryan QC is another popular silk with a good reputation in this field. He has had numerous high-level successes in the last twelve months. For example, he acted on behalf of ArcelorMittal in a multimillion-dollar arbitration concerning coal cargoes under contracts of affreightment. Gordon Pollock QC is head of chambers at Essex Court Chambers and is considered to be a "leading light" in the energy arena. He is particularly recommended for his excellent work on gas disputes. Claire Blanchard QC's transition to silk has gone very well and she continues to be involved in high-value cases such as Global Process Systems v Syarikat Takaful Malaysia: The Cendor MOPU in the Supreme Court. She is known for her "robust and effective advocacy." Highly regarded by his peers, David Mildon QC is praised for his deep and extensive knowledge of gas contracts. He is recommended along with Richard Siberry QC, who is particularly noted for his work on complex arbitrations. Siberry is an energetic and forceful advocate who, nevertheless, remains courteous at all times.

Fraud: Civil (Band 2)

Edmund King (Band 4)
Gordon Pollock QC (Band 3)
Jern-Fei Ng (Band U)
Joe Smouha QC (Band 1)
Nathan Pillow (Band 4)
Paul McGrath QC (Band N)
Paul Stanley QC (Band 4)

THE SET In common with its magic circle rivals One Essex Court, Fountain Court and Brick Court, this set approaches fraud work in the wider context of its tremendously impressive general commercial law practice. Well capable of going toe to toe with the cream of the profession, it has barristers who are genuine leaders in their field and "masters of presentation in court." Testament to the set's standing, it had no fewer than seven individuals involved in the recent high-profile Fiona Trust litigation.

SILKS Joe Smouha QC "is thoroughly deserving of recognition because of his outstanding judgement and unimpeachable handling of difficult parties," according to enthusiastic sources. He was one of those who acted in the Fiona Trust litigation and is widely seen as one of the best and most sought-after silks in the commercial law market today. His head of chambers Gordon Pollock QC knows what it is like to be at the pinnacle of the profession. He continues to act for marquee names such as Yukos Capital, and is known for being "trenchant, no-nonsense and an all-round excellent adviser." His stable has been augmented with another silk following Paul Stanley QC's appointment. Stanley provides "quick and clever input into a case" and is noted for his "effective advocacy." He acted for Russian high net worth individual Oleg Deripaska in a multibillion-dollar fraud claim. Interviewees describe Paul McGrath QC as "a fantastic and pragmatic performer who more than holds his own in court." Major matters for him include advising Boris Berezovsky on ongoing litigation worth in excess of USD1 billion.

JUNIORS Edmund King continues to attract positive market attention in this arena. He recently acted on the Proton Bank v UBS dispute involving allegations of misrepresentation. Nathan Pillow provides "some excellent input" on a number of notable matters, including the high-stakes Fiona Trust litigation. Younger junior Jern-Fei Ng also acted on the Fiona Trust litigation. Sources reserve particular praise for his "unwavering dedication and meticulous eye for detail."

Insurance (Band 2)

Claire Blanchard QC (Band 4)
David Foxton QC (Band 2)
David Scorey (Band 1)
Gordon Pollock QC (Band 3)
John Lockey QC (Band 1)
Paul Stanley QC (Band 3)
Richard Jacobs QC (Band 3)
Stephen Houseman (Band 3)
Steven Berry QC (Band 2)

THE SET Essex Court Chambers is "extremely commercial, stuffed with talented and approachable barristers and, in terms of its brand identity, more like a law firm than many of its rivals," according to interviewees. A thoroughly well-established set, it is a popular destination for those faced with a range of insurance and shipping disputes. It also offers expertise in high-value professional indemnity cases. The clerks win praise for their availability and command respect for their enthusiastic pursuit of international work.

SILKS Clients appreciate the "punchy, analytical and thoughtful approach" of Steven Berry QC, who "translates complex legal issues into commercial solutions." He has recently been involved in a case regarding a North Korean reinsurance fraud. The "incredibly bright, practical and calm" David Foxton QC is valued by sources for his "phenomenal grasp of detail" when handling insurance and reinsurance disputes. His recent cases have included a High Court action to determine the coverage for NatWest in the event of terrorism. The "engaging and lively" John Lockey QC adds both "considerable experience and a touch of humour" to proceedings and is widely recognised for his high-profile insurance and reinsurance disputes. He has been advising insurance brokers in a high-value claim for hail damage to a consignment of cars in Dubai.

Combining intelligence with approachability, Richard Jacobs QC is considered a "genuine pleasure to deal with" when carrying out a diverse range of work, including Bermuda Form litigation. His recent cases have included appearing as co-counsel with US lawyers on a major dispute relating to pollution in the USA. Head of chambers is the "strong and hard-hitting" Gordon Pollock QC. As part of a distinguished career, Pollock has enjoyed the luxury of choosing the highest-profile cases. In the past year, he has tackled a reinsurance dispute between two Bermudian excess insurers. Claire Blanchard QC wins plaudits for her strong marine insurance background. She is a top port of call for coverage and jurisdictional points, and recently tackled a claim against a Lloyd’s insurer for the loss of high-value goods. Finally among the silks, the "wonderful brain box" Paul Stanley QC offers clients "impressively sound judgement" on Bermuda Form arbitrations. In this area, he is considered to be a leading authority.

JUNIORS Twice a nominee for Chambers' Insurance Junior of the Year, David Scorey is considered "both an amiable and a ruthless opponent." He is widely acknowledged to have a forte in both Bermuda Form arbitration and insurance matters concerning injured sports professionals. Also recommended, the talented Stephen Houseman has been acting for a Jordanian insurance company seeking damages for negligence from its Lloyd's broker.

Shipping & Commodities (Band 2)

Christopher Smith QC (Band 3)
Claire Blanchard QC (Band 3)
David Foxton QC (Band 4)
Edmund King (Band 4)
Graham Dunning QC (Band 2)
Nathan Pillow (Band 4)
Nigel Eaton (Band 4)
Philippa Hopkins (Band 3)
Simon Bryan QC (Band 4)
Steven Berry QC (Band 1)
Vernon Flynn QC (Band 3)

THE SET Essex Court Chambers has long been associated with top-notch shipping work. It is home to well-known leading individuals who specialise in all manner of wet and dry shipping disputes. The set also has great capabilities in commodities work, having been instructed on many important cases in the area this year. Essex Court's outstanding barristers are supported by a friendly and effective team of clerks.

SILKS The “vivacious” Steven Berry QC is held in the highest esteem for his expertise across shipping and commodities work. “Brilliant and incisive,” he is considered by many of his rivals to be “a daunting opponent” although still “a pleasure to work with.” Much of his time of late has been consumed by the widely reported Fiona Trust litigation. “Shrewd tactician” Graham Dunning QC “speaks compellingly and persuasively in court,” say interviewees. They also compliment his “unusual gift for sniffing out a little bit of evidence which can make a huge difference to a case.” In addition to his involvement in the Fiona Trust litigation with Steven Berry QC, he has recently been involved in The Fedra, a commercial court case concerning the total loss of a vessel off Gibraltar. Vernon Flynn QC earns accolades for his involvement in numerous shipping arbitrations. He moves up in the rankings having received substantial praise from market commentators. Sources say: “He is an extremely able and pleasant opponent who doesn’t pull his punches.”

Another of Essex Court's expert silks is Christopher Smith QC. He has been kept busy this year advising on a variety of ship sale and purchase and construction disputes. He is widely regarded as a “strong litigator with a street fighter-type approach.” Claire Blanchard QC “fights hard for her clients' interests and consistently achieves great results.” She is further described as “punchy and fun to work both with and against.” Her recent matters include the Cendor Mopu case, and she has also been involved in several dry shipping arbitrations. Simon Bryan QC's recent work highlights include representing ArcelorMittal, a major steel-making company, in a high-value arbitration concerning shipments of coal under contracts of affreightment. He is popular with the market as is David Foxton QC, who "has forgotten more about shipping than most barristers will ever know,” according to interviewees. Over the past year, he has been instructed on several major shipbuilding disputes.

JUNIORS Philippa Hopkins climbs the rankings this year after receiving accolades for her “successful advocacy style.” "A barrister with a calm exterior," she handles dry shipping matters, insurance and reinsurance and international trade disputes. Edmund King “is getting to be one of the top names at the Commercial Bar.” Peers recognise him for his “well-rounded and impressive” practice that encompasses shipping and commodities work, but extends to other commercial disputes in addition. A new addition to the rankings, Nigel Eaton is commended for his “nice manner with arbitrators" and his "strength at identifying worthwhile arguments.” Sources also praise his written work. His practice revolves around shipping and insurance and reinsurance matters. Nathan Pillow is “a talented and polished performer” who worked alongside Steven Berry QC in the Fiona Trust litigation. This year he has taken the lead on a series of arbitrations concerning alleged fraudulent profit-sharing arrangements in respect of petroleum coke trading.

Tax: Indirect Tax (Band 2)

David Scorey (Band 1)
Edmund King (Band 3)
Jern-Fei Ng (Band U)
Paul Key (Band 2)
Roderick Cordara QC (Band *)

THE SET "The degree of VAT expertise on offer and the quality and approachability of its members" make Essex Court Chambers a popular choice among clients for indirect tax issues. Its team is a relatively small unit existing in the context of a large set that operates on a wide commercial canvas. It does, however, have individuals of noted strength who "are technically excellent, have a firm grasp of legal issues, prove responsive and are very easy to understand – they make salient points in laymen's terms." Of late they have enjoyed decent results in the ECJ on tax avoidance abuse cases.

SILKS Roderick Cordara QC is widely regarded as the strongest VAT barrister in the UK and is the real star here. His courtroom presence remains one of his key strengths, with commentators observing that "he is absolutely second to none in front of the tribunal." His recent work has included anti-avoidance cases and a number of matters involving the food and drink industry.

JUNIORS According to sources, David Scorey is "always 100% committed to his case and someone who really argues his corner." He has recently been involved in Baxi v HMRC, a complex ECJ case where he acted on behalf of the taxpayer, and has also appeared in ATEC v HMRC. Paul Key has also been active at the ECJ, representing EMI in an action to recover overpaid output tax on compact disc samples of around £1.5 million. He is "an extremely diligent performer who always gets the work done." New entry Edmund King is lauded as "a skilled advocate in the field of VAT." Another with a "dedicated work ethic," he always provides considered suggestions on the conduct of a case and the issues to be argued. King has impressed as junior to Cordara in various high-profile appeals and has acted on behalf of major legal and accountancy firms. Up-and-comer Jern-Fei Ng also joins the rankings this year following ringing endorsements from the market. An "energetic, hard-working and forensically astute" barrister, he recently represented RBS as sole counsel in the ECJ.

Banking & Finance (Band 3)

David Foxton QC (Band 1)
Edmund King (Band 3)
Jeffrey Gruder QC (Band 4)
Joe Smouha QC (Band 2)
Richard Millett QC (Band 3)

THE SET Essex Court Chambers launches into banking law from the springboard of its undoubted strength in commercial dispute resolution and arbitration. Whilst the set may not have the volume of work of some of its rivals, it is recognised as having individuals at the senior end who are capable of taking on the best in the business.

SILKS David Foxton QC is a "heavyweight banking litigator with a really bright future." "Incredibly personable and always on top of his papers," he is deemed a "thoroughly excellent advocate" who can turn his hand to a wide range of banking disputes, from credit default swaps and freight futures to derivatives and asset-backed securities. The set is also home to Joe Smouha QC, an "incisive advocate" who "provides sound legal analysis in its commercial context." The "enthusiastic" Richard Millett QC is sought after for his "practical advice" on banking and trade financing cases, particularly those with an insolvency element. Jeffrey Gruder QC also garners praise as an effective banking practitioner. He is acting for Sompo Insurance in relation to problems concerning swap arrangements arising out of an issue of CDO notes.

JUNIORS Edmund King is an "absolutely brilliant senior junior." Commentators say he is "incredibly easy to use," as he "possesses that rare quality of being able to translate legal issues into commercial solutions for the client."

Employment (Band 3)

Andrew Hochhauser QC (Band *)
Charles Ciumei (Band 1)
David Craig (Band *)
Edward Brown (Band 5)
Martin Griffiths QC (Band 2)

THE SET Within this front-rank commercial set lies a small cadre of barristers whose expertise in the employment field is unquestioned. These individuals, although small in number, tackle all employment disputes including equal pay, discrimination, restrictive covenant and whistle-blowing cases. Known for the superiority of their advocacy, they are clerked by a team of clerks led by David Grief, one of the most well known and respected clerks anywhere at the Bar.

SILKS Considered to be "unsurpassable in the employment arena,"Andrew Hochhauser QC is "a ferocious advocate and a brutal opponent, equipped with tremendous knowledge and a reputation that carries incredible weight." One source commented: "If you seek a passionate style of advocacy and a poetic way with words, then he is unmatched." Also highly praised is Martin Griffiths QC, who is "hard-working, articulate and excellent in cross-examination." He is commended for his friendly client manner and collegiate approach.

JUNIORS "Forceful and confident in his opinions," Charles Ciumei is "never afraid to come off the fence." He has an "exceptional intellect and is always ready to fight his corner." Clients seek his expertise particularly for injunctive relief applications and team move cases. Another carrying a fantastic reputation is David Craig, who is considered to be "amongst the very best in the business." Frequently referred to as a "real superstar," he is "client-friendly, extremely responsive, very commercial and terrific on the strategy." The other junior to be recommended here is Edward Brown, "a very analytical barrister who is brilliant with clients."

International Arbitration: Arbitrators

David Williams QC (Band 1)
Ian Hunter QC (Band 1)
Joe Smouha QC (Band 1)
Martin Hunter (Band 1)
Michael Collins QC (Band 1)
Richard Siberry QC (Band 1)
Toby Landau QC (Band 1)
V V Veeder QC (Band 1)

THE SET Long pre-eminent in the field, Essex Court Chambers is a set that delivers a consistently high level of service on all international arbitration matters, and attracts widespread praise for the sheer depth and size of its practice. Commentators note that not only does the set house a plethora of leading counsel, but it also boasts a “fantastic roster of international arbitrators.”

SILKS One instructing solicitor says of Toby Landau QC: "It may be stating the obvious, but he remains the first choice on arbitration-related matters," whilst another adds: "You can't do better than him." Described as a "guru in the field," Landau has established a formidable reputation due to his "excellent research, well-favoured arguments and superb cross-examination skills." Clients seek out Graham Dunning QC for his "tough, robust and rigorous" advocacy style. His recent efforts have seen him representing the State of Azerbaijan in an ICSID arbitration in Washington, DC under the Energy Charter Treaty 1994. Commercial arbitration work forms a mainstay of David Foxton QC's practice. Said to be "outstandingly good," he regularly appears as lead advocate in arbitrations under LCIA, ICC, LMAA and Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) rules. The equally well regarded Joe Smouha QC is "a leader who shows fine judgement and commands the respect of clients." He has developed a first-rate international arbitration practice and also handles a heavy commercial litigation caseload.
Jeffrey Gruder QC is an "extremely good performer" in court. He is noted for the breadth of his expertise and has acted in both commercial and insurance arbitration before a variety of tribunals. One recent example of his work saw him represent the vendors of a life insurance company in a long-running arbitration concerning claims arising from pensions legislation. David Joseph QC is favoured as an "arbitration-savvy" barrister who "can find esoteric points of law and make them readily understandable" to both clients and the court. Sources further admire him because "he is approachable and makes everyone feel relaxed and at ease." The "absolutely brilliant" Vernon Flynn QC is an "excellent advocate with an encyclopaedic knowledge of English arbitration law." As a result, he is regularly instructed as counsel on big-ticket arbitrations and also attracts appointments as an arbitrator. Richard Millett QC is "fantastic in court" and "easy to work with." He maintains a diverse international arbitration practice, as does Richard Siberry QC. Siberry is recognised as both "an outstanding advocate and arbitrator." Like so many at the set, he has extensive expertise in the field, spanning shipping, oil and gas, insurance and commodity arbitration.

Observers say Steven Berry QC is a "great pleasure to work with and excellent with clients." His arbitration experience includes advising on political risk insurance and reinsurance policies, as well as energy investment-related disputes. Since taking silk in 2010, Paul Stanley QC's practice has gone from strength to strength. Whilst he covers a wide range of disputes, he demonstrates particular expertise in Bermuda Form cases. Instructing solicitors say: "There is absolute confidence when seeking an opinion from him that he will come back with the right answer."

JUNIORS Ricky Diwan has firmly established himself as a go-to junior for international commercial arbitration. His practice spans a range of industry sectors, with his recent work including advising a Malaysian company before the SIAC on a mobile telecoms-related dispute. He has also been acting on behalf of an African government before the ICC in a military shipbuilding dispute. Equally impressive, Sam Wordsworth can be relied upon for his excellent attention to detail and superb advocacy in investment treaty arbitrations. He impresses along with Paul Key, "an unflappable barrister with a strong work ethic." One interviewee notes: "When working on a huge international arbitration, he seamlessly slots into the wider team and provides spot-on insights." David Scorey excels in insurance arbitration, where he has a strong track record. He provides "clear and concise advice" to a raft of satisfied clients.

Agriculture & Rural Affairs

Hugh Mercer QC (Band 2)

Hugh Mercer QC of Essex Court Chambers has unrivalled expertise on the Single Payment Scheme and EU farm subsidies. The cases he is instructed in often have serious implications for the British agriculture and fisheries sector. Sources say he is "very erudite and, frankly, brilliant."

Chancery: Commercial

Edmund King (Band 2)

"Edmund King of Essex Court Chambers' recent work in bondholder disputes and other company law actions is singled out for praise. Solicitors like him because he is "good at giving a client a commercial appraisal and makes an effort to understand their market."

Competition/European Law: European Law

Hugh Mercer QC (Band 2)
Tim Eicke QC (Band N)

Hugh Mercer QC of Essex Court Chambers is "a fine litigation strategist" who is "marvellous for EU law questions." Recent matters he has been instructed on include Intertanko v Dept of Transport, where he represented a number of global ship-owners. Tim Eicke QCis another quality performer at his set. Despite having only recently taken silk, he is acknowledged as one of the leading authorities on European law. His recent matters include a case concerning the question of the operation of the Orphan Medicinal Products regime in EU law as administered by the European Medicines Agency

Immigration

Tim Eicke QC (Band N)

"High-quality performer" Tim Eicke QC of Essex Court Chambers is singled out for his "incredible knowledge on all things to do with EU law." This "supremely clever barrister" recently took silk and is expected to flourish further in this role

Offshore

Joe Smouha QC (Band 2)
Richard Millett QC (Band 1)

Richard Millett QC of Essex Court Chambers is commended for his dedication to cultivating offshore relationships. He regularly appears in the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, the BVI and elsewhere. Stablemate Joe Smouha QC is acclaimed for his presence in the Cayman Islands, the Bahamas, Bermuda and the BVI. His all-encompassing commercial practice has seen him mastering Madoff-related litigation and hedge fund disputes in the above jurisdictions, as well as acting for many governments and government-related organisations.