Hall Of Fame

Leading Associates

Firms To Watch: Commercial litigation: Liverpool

Glenville Walker & Partners handles a diverse range of matters including banking, commercial, insolvency, property, and employment law litigation. Team head Michael Smeaton brings a wealth of broad litigation experience, with particular specialism in the telecoms sector.

Commercial litigation: Liverpool in North West

Brabners LLP

Brabners LLP‘s Liverpool litigation team remains at the forefront of high-profile and high-stakes disputes. Renowned for its defamation and reputation management expertise, the team achieved a landmark malicious falsehood victory in the Supreme Court in 2024 and notably represented Coleen Rooney in the widely publicised ‘Wagatha Christie’ case. The practice also handles a broad range of matters, including insolvency litigation, debt recovery, medical negligence, and contentious probate. Team head Paul Lunt brings deep sector knowledge, particularly in sport, where he regularly represents athletes and football organisations. Helen Otty is a go-to for complex litigation and arbitration, while Matthew Moy has a strong track record advising on contractual disputes, defamation, and restrictive covenant issues in the employment sphere.

Praxisleiter:

Paul Lunt


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Helen Otty; Phil Weldon; Matthew Moy; Simon Morris; Adam Murphy; Glyn Lancefield; Laura Earps


Referenzen

‘Broad-based skill set and well resourced across the board. Very strong depth of expertise.’

‘Paul Lunt – highly experienced partner with an excellent reputation. Helen Otty – hard-working, pragmatic, and easy to deal with.‘ 

‘Our main contact is Glyn Lancefield, and it is rare for us to seek out a partner. Glyn is more than a litigator—he is a guide, an advisor, and a man of wisdom.’

Kernmandanten

Coleen Rooney


Commonwealth Games Federation


Wayne Rooney


Document Risk Solutions


Yodel Delivery Network


TJ Morris


Chester Racecourse


Arnold Clark Automobiles


British Canoeing


ION Developments


Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented the Defendants in a significant defamation and malicious falsehood claim which had serious implication for freedom of speech.
  • Represented Colleen Rooney in the ‘Wagatha Christie’ defamation case between our Mrs Rooney and Rebekkah Vardy.

DWF

DWF is a standout player in litigation, particularly within the retail, food and drink, energy, TMT, and financial services sectors. The team is recognised for its wide-ranging expertise, handling complex disputes at all levels of the UK courts and through varied forms of dispute resolution. Co-chair Christopher King is a go-to for urgent injunctive relief, especially in cases involving fraud, misuse of confidential information, and restrictive covenants. Fellow co-chair Matthew Stoll brings deep insurance know-how and regularly handles complex contractual and property disputes. ‘Top-rate senior associate’ Sam Pringle is experienced across the specialist divisions of the High Court and has appeared in multiple cases before the Court of Appeal.

Praxisleiter:

Christopher King; Matt Stoll


Weitere Kernanwälte:

David Hulber; Paul Maddock; Sam Pringle


Referenzen

‘The DWF Liverpool team is superb. They are highly attentive and results-focused, whilst being a pleasure to deal with.’

‘Christopher King is excellent—down to earth, sensible, and with a strong backbone.‘

‚Sam Pringle is a delight to deal with: bright, dedicated, and commercial.’

Kernmandanten

Esken Renewables


Amazon


Nominet


BT Group


Liverpool Airport


Lloyds Bank


Adidas


ACC Liverpool Group


Allianz Insurance


Department of Work and Pensions


Home Office


Stateside Foods


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for a global retail brand client to claim against a provider of financial services.
  • Acting on behalf of a national mobile phone network operator concerning a dispute with a mobile virtual network operator.
  • Acting for the manufacturer and supplier of sustainable energy in respect of a multi-million pound supply chain dispute.

Hill Dickinson LLP

Hill Dickinson LLP’s litigation team remains a standout force in high-stakes, multi-million-pound disputes, combining deep trial experience with strong sector-specific insight. Co-chair Nina Ferris is a versatile litigator, recently acting in a major unfair prejudice petition and a string of contentious shareholder disputes. Fellow co-chair Paul Walsh plays a key role in the firm’s sports-related caseload, adeptly guiding clients through both courtroom proceedings and alternative dispute resolution. Kate Steele brings significant expertise in cross-border litigation and breach of warranty claims, while Jon Scally continues to expand his profile in the sports law arena. Martha Allen rounds out the senior team with a sharp focus on breach of contract, professional negligence, and partnership disputes.

Praxisleiter:

Nina Ferris; Paul Walsh


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Kate Steele; Jon Scally; Martha Allen


Referenzen

‘Without exception, every team we work with at Hill Dickinson is high quality. We define quality not only in terms of output but also in approach.‘

‘Every individual we have worked with is personable—something not always guaranteed elsewhere. They are excellent communicators, quick to respond, and never overcomplicate an issue.‘

‘Nina Ferris is an outstanding member of the commercial litigation team at Hill Dickinson. She is an extremely capable commercial litigator with a strong track record of success.‘

Kernmandanten

Secretariat of State


MPB Developments


Tactus Holdings


Extrude Hone


First MTR South Western Trains


Utility Capital Management


Earthworks Capital


Bellward Properties


Tactus


deVere Group


John Black Solicitors


Hemsec Engineering


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for the Vatican in an alleged multi-million pound property fraud against management companies.
  • Representing the Respondents in defending a highly unusual 3-fold petition presented by the Petitioners.
  • Act for a German company, Extrude in relation to a €multi-million dispute with Dyson Manufacturing.

Provenio Litigation

Renowned for its close ties with litigation funders, boutique firm Provenio Litigation commands significant respect in the North West’s commercial disputes arena. The team continues to attract high-value instructions, including multi-million-pound wrongful prosecution claims, complex construction arbitrations, litigation tied to failed property investment schemes, and global freezing orders. Practice head Mark Goodwin is widely regarded as a leading figure in heavyweight UK and international disputes. Hannah Catterall brings comprehensive expertise across professional negligence, shareholder fallouts, breach of contract, and sophisticated financial litigation. Emma Charnock is praised for her strategic acumen in navigating intricate commercial matters.

Praxisleiter:

Mark Goodwin


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Hannah Catterall; Emma Charnock; Daniel Jude


Referenzen

‘The best boutique firm in the North West, without doubt. Approachable, knowledgeable, and highly skilled, they provide partner-led solutions and strategies.’

‘Mark Goodwin is a star litigator who is rightly regarded as a grandee in his field. He is supported by the calm and diligent Hannah Catterall and the ever-impressive Emma Charnock.’

‘The team is very well led by Emma Charnock. They are knowledgeable, responsive, and deliver on their promises. They are professional and courteous.’

Highlight-Mandate


  • Handling claims by individuals in an investment scheme against the CPS for wrongful prosecution and misfeasance in public office.
  • Acting for the founders and significant shareholders in the business in a dispute with a private equity investor.
  • Advising and representing the client in ICC arbitration proceedings in respect of Buildings and CMEI subcontracts in Oman.

DLA Piper

DLA Piper UK LLP maintains a formidable litigation practice, regularly handling cross-border High Court proceedings and international arbitrations under LCIA and ICC rules. The team’s enviable client base includes leading financial institutions, government bodies, tech companies, and private equity houses. M&A, shareholder, partnership, and joint venture disputes are consistent sources of work. Team head Christina Sharma brings a wealth of litigation expertise paired with deep sector knowledge in technology. Laura Moorcroft plays a pivotal role in matters tied to real estate, hospitality, and sport. Danielle Carter and Harriet Michael also contribute significantly to the team’s ongoing success.

Praxisleiter:

Christina Sharma


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Laura Moorcroft; Danielle Carter; Harriet Michael; Charlotte Leith


Referenzen

‘Christina Sharma is a force of nature. She is a determined and highly talented litigator that any client would want on their side.’

‘A very strong commercial practice, with a great range of work. The team comprises highly experienced practitioners at all levels, offering flexibility and a speedy response.’

‘Christina Sharma: very commercial and capable; builds strong client relationships; a safe pair of hands.‘

Kernmandanten

Africa Reinsurance Consultants


Commetric


Duracell


Harrison Street Real Estate


IHG Hotels


Joloda Hydraroll


Reply Group


Rimkus Group


Sanlam General Insurance Ghana


ScottishPower Energy Retail


Squiz Group


The Premier League


Universities Superannuation Scheme


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for Sanlam General Insurance Ghana in a multi-jurisdictional dispute to recover sums due under a Corporate Indemnity.
  • Acted for an individual to recover $4.2m of funds that the Defendants debited from his trading accounts.
  • Acting for several shareholders and the directors of Sportpesa Global Holdings in a Part 7 claim and Part 8 unfair prejudice petition.

DTM Legal LLP

DTM Legal LLP is highly sought after by finance sector clients, particularly for its expertise in high-value personal guarantee claims. The team’s success is driven by its strategic acumen in managing disclosure and e-bundles, which proves invaluable in hearings, trials, and mediations. Team head Jim Morris splits his time between Chester and Liverpool, bringing over 25 years of experience in contentious construction matters. Kate Roberts plays a key role in bolstering the team’s reputation in insolvency litigation. Richard Harris continues to handle high-value, complex collections and recoveries.

Praxisleiter:

Jim Morris


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Kate Roberts; Richard Harris; Jonathan Partridge


Referenzen

‘DTM Legal provide the best people to handle clients‘ requirements while always considering the commercial impacts of the legal issue.’

‘The individuals we work with are approachable and knowledgeable, aiming for a clear and quick resolution. When instructing them, we are clear on expectations and costs.’

‚A team comprising the highest-quality lawyers, selected based on their experience and understanding of what clients want.‘

Kernmandanten

The Atmore Group


Funding Circle Group


Rotex Europe


Elements


Begbies Traynor


Edge Recovery


Clancy Consulting


Zodeq


Carpenter Build


Swishfund


Sterling Services


Consultant Clinic Aesthetics


CCI Credit Management


Ellison Europe


Willan Group


MSoft eSolutions


Vectorex Construction


Luxlite


Esterform Packaging


Blackrock Medical Recruitment


Thomas Storey Fabrications


Net World Sports


Marine Specialised Technology


Nightfly


Azzurro Associates


Formwork Direct International


The Liberal Democratic Party


Mercia Asset Management


Woolton Hall


Lillycross Homes


Harrogate Consultants


Greenbank Drive Surgery


NTF Financial Solutions


Time Finance


Playter


Assist Services Group


Two Mills Asset Management


EverKool


Regentia Liefstyle


Hotel Managers


RSM


Icede


Pipe


Triver


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advising The Liberal Democratic Party in High Court proceedings following the team’s successful defeat of an interim injunction application.
  • Instructed by Assist Services Group in a range of proceedings brought against the company and its directors by a former employee.
  • Leading the team in a planning appeal relating to a proposal to develop a Moto X site for electric bikes.

Weightmans LLP

Weightmans LLP advises a wide-ranging client base across the full spectrum of commercial litigation, with particular strength in complex contractual disputes involving issues of interpretation and termination. The team’s deep legal expertise is bolstered by significant experience navigating litigation funding. Practice head Sarah Conroy handles a broad caseload, with a focus on company, director, and shareholder claims. Andrew Roberts is experienced in representing both private and public sector clients, resolving disputes through litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution. Alex Parkington is also a valued member of the team, contributing across a range of commercial matters.

Praxisleiter:

Sarah Conroy


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Andrew Roberts; Alex Parkington


Referenzen

‘They have been very supportive during a very difficult time.’

‘This is a strong, focused commercial litigation team.’

‘Sarah Conroy is a class act – bright, user-friendly and knowledgeable. She fights to win and succeeds.’

Kernmandanten

Bertazzoni UK


Landmarc Support Services


APCER Life Sciences


Gentoo Group


S Norton & Co


Somoco


Northside Truck & Van


Durham County Council


Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts


Tomorrow’s Guides


Sandway Homes


National Museums Liverpool


CG Professional Limited

CG Professional Limited continues to expand its litigation offering, advising on a wide array of commercial disputes including shareholder and partnership issues, professional negligence, and breach of contract claims. Team head Michelle Connor is a versatile and experienced litigator, frequently acting in matters ranging from complex contractual breaches to business protection and reputation management disputes. The team has recently been strengthened by the arrival of James Walsh from Weightmans LLP and Naomi Cope from Clyde & Co in February 2025.

Praxisleiter:

Michelle Connor


Weitere Kernanwälte:

James Walsh; Paul Hayhurst; Naomi Cope


Referenzen

‘James Walsh is very hard-working, with excellent legal and communication skills. He is a team player, capable of handling complex litigation.’

‘Paul Hayhurst is an extremely able commercial litigator – excellent with clients, thoroughly prepared to litigate (and his opponents know it), yet ready to negotiate when the terms are right.’

‘We had the privilege of working with Michelle Connor during a complex and challenging contract dispute, and we cannot recommend her highly enough. From the outset, Michelle demonstrated exceptional resilience, listening attentively to our needs and concerns as clients, and crafting a strategy that aligned with our best interests.‘ 

Kernmandanten

Blends


Compassionate Care Group


2 San


Watkin Jones and Son


Hippo


Car Finance 247


Productcare Group


Careium


esg


Centaur Technologies


Enabling Me


Yumpingo


PAPYRUS


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acted for a individual in a high court decision on repudiatory breach of contract for unilateral changes to an employment contract.
  • Acting for a large care group in relation to a claim for conspiracy by unlawful means.
  • Advising a large manufacturer with cross border contract performance relating to COVID era supplies.

Napthens LLP

Commercial contract disputes, professional negligence claims, debt recovery, and shareholder litigation are all central pillars of Napthens LLP’s busy litigation practice. Team head James Stephenson brings substantial expertise in complex, high-value matters, with a particular focus on contentious shareholder issues. Jennifer Rogers adds further strength to the team with her standout property litigation capabilities.

Praxisleiter:

James Stephenson


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jennifer Rogers


Referenzen

‘The team is diverse and knowledgeable across employment, GDPR, and general disputes. Communication is strong throughout, and they collaborate effectively behind the scenes.‘ 

‘James Stephenson is highly attentive and an excellent communicator. He’s gone above and beyond, often working outside regular hours to keep us on track.‘ 

‘Napthens is a well-respected firm with strong litigators across all areas. Their departments work closely together to provide practical, client-focused solutions.’

Glaisyers ETL

Glaisyers ETL is regarded as an ‘excellent choice for commercial disputes in the football sector‘ and matters involving restrictive covenants in employment. The team also has a strong reputation in enforcement and recoveries, frequently acting for a wide range of lenders. Practice head Kathryn Parrish brings standout expertise in the enforcement of secured loan agreements. Gareth Farrelly is recognised for his niche focus on fraud and negligence claims within the sporting arena.

Praxisleiter:

Daniel Fitzgerald; Kathryn Parrish


Weitere Kernanwälte:

David Jones; Gareth Farrelly


Referenzen

‘An excellent choice for commercial disputes in the football sector.‘ 

‚Noted for their expertise in restrictive covenant cases.’

‘Gareth Farelly – Very experienced and knowledgeable about football matters.‘

Kernmandanten

Hope Capital


Reward Finance


Kroll Advisory


Quantuma Advisory


Recognise Bank


Highlight-Mandate


  • Acting for the shareholders of a manufacturing company sold to an international buyer in relation to a multi-million-pound dispute.
  • Acting for a challenger bank in relation to a number of seven-figure claims against borrowers and guarantors.
  • Acting for a private individual in relation to a seven-figure professional negligence claim against the individual’s former solicitors.

Mann Roberts Solicitors Limited

Mann Roberts Solicitors Limited is recognised for its work in complex shareholder and partnership disputes, as well as high-value contractual claims. The team also handles a steady flow of commercial property litigation. Practice head David Mann is particularly active across the construction, agriculture, sports, and energy sectors. Colin Vickers frequently brings his specialist knowledge of insurance and fraud litigation to bear in contentious mandates.

Praxisleiter:

David Mann


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Colin Vickers; Alex Mullin


Referenzen

‘A young, dynamic team that regularly punches above its weight. They are innovative in their approach to funding litigation and always put client outcomes first.’

‘Mann Roberts have been outstanding in every respect. They go above and beyond in their client care and provide consistently high-quality service. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them for any commercial litigation dispute.’

‘Dave, Alex and the team are always accessible and provide timely, professional updates throughout every case.’

MSB Solicitors

Acting for both private and public sector clients, MSB Solicitors is recognised not only for its ‘wealth of experience’ in substantive law, but also for its strategic grasp of litigation, enabling it to deliver ‘clear, accurate, and highly effective’ advice. Practice head Mark Forman is a go-to figure for business disputes, breach of contract claims, professional negligence, employment litigation, and mediation.

Praxisleiter:

Mark Forman


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jonathan Alderton; David Tarttelin; John McCreanney


Referenzen

‘The MSB Commercial Litigation team brings a wealth of experience and delivers expert, practical advice at every stage of a dispute. Every team member demonstrates deep knowledge of both the substantive law and the strategic realities of litigation, ensuring clear, effective, and commercially-minded guidance for clients.’

‘The Liverpool team is regularly instructed on complex, high-value commercial disputes involving both individuals and corporates. Their client care is exceptional, and they are trusted for their broad expertise in contract disputes, insolvency, company law, and commercial applications of equity and trusts.‘ 

‘John McCreanney stands out as a litigator with remarkable composure, empathy, and drive. His balance of legal acumen, commercial instinct and client dedication consistently delivers outstanding results. His strategic litigation skills and attention to detail set him apart.’

Kernmandanten

Relendex


Word on the Street Financial Solutions


Hatters Square


Social Money


Path Business Recovery


Pantera Property


Encil


CG Recovery


Acuity Capital SPV


RSK Property Holdings


Erik Grig Surveyors


London Investment House


A Shade Greener Finance


Smaller Earth


X1 Developments


Highlight-Mandate


  • Advised a client in response to an urgent injunction seeking to prevent an auction sale of a large commercial property.
  • Advised One Manchester on its legal and commercial options as to a development in Greater Manchester.
  • Advised Narrow Innovation Ltd on recovery of funds owed under a long-standing loan in the sum of £900,000.00.