Keystone Law has achieved its best year of rankings in the Chambers and Partners Guide 2027, with 102 lawyers recognised across multiple practice areas as experts in their respective fields.
The firm received praise for the quality and breadth of its lawyers, commercial approach and client service. Commentators highlighted Keystone’s ability to offer “all the strengths of a large firm whilst maintaining the client focus of a niche one”, as well as the “depth and breadth of expertise” available across the wider firm. Its lawyers were also praised for combining “strong technical expertise with a highly commercial and pragmatic approach”, while providing advice that is “clear, actionable and focused on real-world implementation”.
The directory identifies and ranks the most outstanding practitioners in over 180 jurisdictions throughout the world. Each ranking is assessed by the Chambers and Partners team of experienced researchers.
A full list of Keystone’s ranked practitioners and practice areas can be viewed below along with a summary of what the guide says:
Agriculture and Rural Affairs
Robert Coombe is noted for his ability to advise on rural property transactions.
Asset Finance: Aviation Finance
Christopher Jackson regularly advises clients on leasings and financings related to aircraft and aircraft engines. He is also experienced in advising on acquisitions and dispositions.
Aviation: Claimant
‘Senior Statesperson’ James Healy-Pratt has extensive experience acting on behalf of bereaved claimants following international and domestic aircraft accidents. A source said: ‘James is excellent. He has great knowledge and experience of the industry.’
Owen Hanna has particular strength handling claims stemming from aircraft accidents. He frequently acts for both passengers and their families, but is equally equipped to handle claims for negligence and material damages. One source commented: ‘Owen Hanna is outstanding. He covers all strands of aviation and handles difficult cases really well.’
Banking & Finance: Islamic Finance
Fara Mohammad brings to bear a wealth of experience when advising on Islamic finance transactions. She is regarded for her expertise in Sharia-compliant products across jurisdictions, including those in South-East Asia and the Middle East. A source stated: ‘She stands out for her deep international background, cultural fluency and long track record of experience, all of which make her exceptionally effective in coordinating cross‑border matters. She understands her role clearly, interfaces smoothly with multiple stakeholders, and ensures shared understanding across jurisdictions. Her ability to bridge legal, commercial and cultural perspectives sets her apart from peers at other firms.’
Suraya Tegally has deep experience advising on Islamic finance, with particular expertise within the aviation sector. Tegally brings in-house experience and deep sector knowledge to the companies and financial institutions she advises.
Charities
Robert Meakin has a focus on assisting religious charities and faith-based organisations. In addition to governance and structural matters, he advises on contentious issues involving the Charity Commission. One source said: ‘Robert has provided clear and well-considered advice on complex issues, demonstrating a strong understanding of the relevant legal framework and helping the Trust navigate matters requiring specialist expertise’.
Clinical Negligence: Mainly Defendant
Matthew Trinder maintains a strong recognition for his defence of clinical negligence claims for insurers, private clinicians and hospitals and medical defense organisations. He also has experience handling cosmetics and dental claims. A source said: ‘Matthew’s advice is clear, pragmatic and commercially realistic, and he communicates complex issues in a straightforward way.’
Tracy Sell-Peters advises on a range of clinical negligence matters including neurological, spinal and ophthalmological claims. A source commented: ‘She is highly experienced and informed.’
Construction
Louise Garcia routinely advises contractors, developers and engineering companies on both contentious and non-contentious aspects of construction projects. She can assist with projects of all sizes and has particular strength in matters concerning transport and infrastructure. One source said: ‘We have great faith in her and her ability to guide us. Louise will always respond to our issues and is very thorough at explaining the legal points.’
Jon Close is a prominent construction lawyer who frequently handles both contentious and non-contentious matters for a range of clients, with a particular focus on those in the energy and utilities sectors. He is particularly adept at advising on contract review, professional appointments and disputes relating to termination and extension-of-time claims. A source said: ‘Jon exceeded my expectations with his service and approach, and was attentive and professional.’
Louise Elmes is a barrister in the construction team offering clients a high level of knowledge in the contentious construction space. She is adept at appearing in litigation, adjudication and arbitration matters as well as alternative dispute resolution proceedings. Elmes has acted in matters across a wide array of sectors including energy, shipping and leisure. One source commented: ‘Louise is impressive, a very good operator.’
David Gwillim is noted for his proficiency in disputes concerning delay, disruption and loss and expense claims, among other matters. He frequently represents contractors and developers in mediations, adjudications and proceedings before the Technology and Construction Court.
Corporate Finance: Mid-Market
Isaac Felberbaum has garnered a strong reputation for acting for financial institutions and banks, as well as sovereign states, on sophisticated syndicated and unsecured investment-grade financing transactions. A source said: ‘Isaac is a top lawyer with in-depth understanding and a focus on client needs.’
Court of Protection: Health and Welfare
Zena Bolwig is an experienced practitioner who specialises in Court of Protection work and supporting clients who lack capacity. She has particular experience handling deprivation of liberty cases. A source commented: ‘Zena not only gets to grips quickly with the nuances and breadth of the situation, but she is adept at navigating the perspectives and contexts of all those involved.’
Defamation/Reputation Management
Gerard Cukier is highlighted for his record of handling complex defamation and privacy issues, frequently on behalf of media industry companies and high-profile individuals. One source said: ‘Gerard is calm, considered and strategic. He manages the case sensibly and with skill.’
Employment
Nicholas Jew has a litigation-focused employment practice and helps clients faced with tribunal and High Court claims. He is notable for his work on disputes involving executive-level employees including terminations, discrimination claims and injunction proceedings.
Kelly Sayers has a wealth of experience advising her clients on a variety of employment issues. In particular, she has expertise in defending employers in tribunal claims, redundancy and restructuring exercises, as well as in the employment aspects of corporate transactions. She is described as ‘brilliant. She is so knowledgeable but practical and professional too.’
Keely Rushmore is noted for her expertise in tribunal claims, and further matters which include managing redundancy considerations and related issues. She has experience of claims alleging discrimination, unfair dismissal and harassment. A client described her as providing ‘outstanding service as an employment lawyer, consistently combining excellent client care with deep technical expertise.’
Mike Cain is recognised for his expertise in discrimination and unfair dismissal claims. His client base spans individuals within financial services and FCA-regulated companies, among others.
Gearalt Fahy maintains an impressive disputes practice that sees him advising on allegations of discrimination and unfair dismissal. He is also sought out for non-contentious work including redundancies, internal investigations and senior exits. A source said: ‘Gearalt is very experienced in the world of employment and gives really practical advice that clients like.’
Employment: Employer
Nicholas Robertson has a practice that sees him advise on a broad spectrum of issues faced by major employers, including tribunal and High Court proceedings. He has notable expertise in handling whistle-blowing, discrimination and harassment claims. He was described as ‘fantastic’ by one client.
Rob Eldridge has a wide-ranging employment practice that sees him advising on disputes before the Employment Tribunal and High Court, as well as HR policy and advisory matters. One client said: ‘Rob’s expertise, commercial awareness, responsiveness and commitment to achieving positive outcomes, particularly throughout some tricky matters, have made him a trusted and highly effective adviser to our business.’
Katie Clark is noted for her expertise in advising employers from a broad range of industries on all aspects of employment work. Her areas of expertise include transactional support work, TUPE and discrimination claims. A client described her as ‘a pleasure to work with.’
Employment: Senior Executive
Alexandra Carn is acknowledged for her expertise in the financial services sector. Her experience in handling employment issues is broad and includes advising on matters ranging from terminations to TUPE. A source commented: ‘Alex was so efficient. She is an expert who balanced speed with quality of advice.’
Paul Daniels represents executives in complex employment disputes, including whistle-blowing, dismissals and discrimination. He has notable experience in acting for senior figures in the sport and financial services sectors. A client said: ‘Paul is an outstanding professional. He excels in his advice, combining expert knowledge with an empathetic approach.’
Alistair French offers notable expertise in advising senior executives on complex exit agreements. He is well versed in employment matters in the financial services sector. A source said: ‘Alistair was extremely helpful in providing sound commercial guidance, was always on hand to discuss and was well versed in the commercial context I was working within. I was very grateful to have his help’.
Clive Howard offers a wealth of experience in the representation of senior-level employees in critical contentious employment matters. He is well versed in complex unfair dismissal, whistle-blowing and discrimination claims. According to one source, Clive ‘demonstrates a masterful command of employment law and executive dispute resolution. His responsiveness, pragmatism and client service are first-rate.’
Emma Clark is an experienced and well-regarded practitioner who advises employees on a broad spectrum of work, spanning senior exit agreements through to discrimination claims. A client said: ‘Emma is highly approachable and provides an excellent level of client service. She combines a well-rounded and sophisticated legal approach with strong commercial awareness.’
Jane Wheeler routinely advises senior employees from a broad range of industries. She is skilled at restrictive covenants, tribunal claims and dismissals. A client commented: ‘Jane is exceptional at what she does. Her ability to deliver advice on extremely complex issues in a practical, user-friendly and accessible way is particularly impressive.’ A second source added: ‘She is always responsive and gives pragmatic advice.’
Julie Morris acts for clients on a wide variety of matters, including whistle-blowing, discrimination and unfair dismissal cases. She has experience of advising on high-value cases in the Employment Tribunal and High Court. One source said: ‘Julie is a great lawyer.’
Richard Fox maintains a practice representing both employers and individual senior employees in a broad range of employment issues. He advises clients on matters including claims of unfair dismissal, discrimination, harassment and whistle-blowing. A client said: ‘Richard’s advice was erudite, thoughtful and highly attuned to the sensitivities of the matter. He demonstrated a deep understanding of our particular context.’
Helen Sherborne has notable experience of advising senior individuals on an array of employment issues, including top executives in the media and sport sectors. She offers expertise across various areas, including contract negotiations, discrimination cases and settlement agreements. A source praised Helen for having ‘the highest competence, emotional intelligence and integrity combination I have ever seen in my professional life.’
Family/Children Law: International Abduction, Adoption and Surrogacy
Colin Rogerson is an expert in both domestic and cross-border surrogacy. His international expertise extends to relocation and abduction cases. A source said: ‘He is a leading solicitor for fertility and modern family work.’ An additional source said: ‘His knowledge of surrogacy law is unmatched.’
Family/Matrimonial
Roopa Ahluwalia acts on cases spanning the whole range of family law, including division of assets and other financial remedy proceedings and Children Act proceedings. She is also a qualified family mediator and collaborative lawyer. One client said: ‘Roopa is a lovely individual, skilled at everything she does. Clients trust her. She would rather resolve than litigate.’ A contact added: ‘Roopa is very good and commands a lot of respect. She knows her way around a case and client, and her sense of an outcome is good.’
Bethan Hill-Howells is an accredited mediator and recommended for a wide range of non-court dispute resolution. She is also noted for advice on pre and postnuptial agreements, divorce settlements and children’s matters of all levels of complexity and sensitivity. A commentator said: ‘She is empathetic, supportive and available.’
Family/Matrimonial Finance: High Net Worth
Emma Harte is a highly experienced and respected specialist in family law and attracts praise for her mediation practice. A source said: ‘Emma Harte is enormously experienced. She has seen so much different litigation that you are just calm and confident in her ability to deliver.’
Richard Collins advises on divorce and financial remedy matters. He has a particular specialism in cases involving issues of addiction and mental health difficulties. A contact commented: ‘Richard Collins will go the extra mile for his clients, is super intelligent and is a really safe pair of hands.’ A second source said: ‘Richard Collins is a strong litigator. He’s really responsive to clients, has a nose for the right outcome and fights hard to get there.’
Hannah Sisk advises on matrimonial finance matters, including financial remedy proceedings, Schedule 1 applications and nuptial agreements. A client said: ‘Hannah Sisk is highly responsive, calm under pressure and consistently on top of the detail. She combines excellent client care with real strategic judgement. She quickly understands what matters, explains options clearly, and gives practical, realistic advice that keeps momentum in the right direction.’
Teresa Cullen represents high net worth clients in financial remedy proceedings, divorce cases and nuptial agreements. One source commented that: ‘Teresa Cullen is extremely experienced, with a very good way about her. Clients feel well represented by her. She is a good listener and communicator.’
Claire O’Flinn focuses on high net worth family matrimonial finance matters, often involving cross-border jurisdiction issues. A commentator noted: ‘Claire O’Flinn has great attention to detail, leaves no stone unturned and ensures all arguments and preparation are rehearsed. She is a very reliable, solid solicitor.’
Sarah Thompson has considerable experience in financial remedies. She often navigates complex circumstances such as shared business assets and inherited assets.
Family: Mediators
Emma Harte is a qualified mediator and is praised for being a ‘hugely experienced as a lawyer. She builds confidence with her clients very quickly.’
Roopa Ahluwalia is instructed on mediation cases. One source said: ‘Roopa is extremely thorough and lovely to work with, very approachable. Her clients love her and have so much confidence in her.’
Financial Crime: Private Prosecutions
Polly Sprenger has significant expertise in fraud matters and brings private prosecutions on behalf of both corporate and individual clients. She draws on valuable previous experience as head of strategic intelligence at the SFO, which gives her a unique insight into complex fraud investigations and prosecutions. A source said: ‘Polly is a force of nature. She is passionate, invested, committed and a pleasure to work with.’ A second contact commented that: ‘Polly Sprenger is arguably the best lawyer in London for private prosecutions.’
Gaming
Richard Williams is noted for his ability to act on contentious gaming matters, as well as advising on operating licences. His client base includes start-ups, casinos and software developers. One client said: ‘Richard is very knowledgeable in gaming and licensing matters and provides clear, practical advice. He is easy to communicate with and explains complex issues in a straightforward way, which makes the process much easier to manage.’
Carl Rohsler is recognised for his work on behalf of leading clients in the gambling industry. He advises on change of control applications and corporate transactions, as well as being adept at handling contentious matters. One source said: ‘Carl is a real asset when it comes to difficult concepts and negotiations.’ A second added: ‘There are few lawyers that operate in this area that have Carl’s breadth of knowledge coupled with his outstanding commercial approach.’
Alan Owens is a litigator with expertise in contentious gambling and gaming matters. He has worked on some of the most high-profile cases in the space and is seen as a go-to solicitor for clients involved in complex and high-value disputes. A source said: ‘Alan is brilliant at his job and a pleasure to deal with.’ Another added: ‘If I’ve got an important gambling dispute, I would go to Alan. He is undoubtedly one of the best litigators I’ve dealt with.’
Health & Safety
Sarah Taylor is renowned for her expertise in advising clients in the retail sector. She is also particularly adept at handling food safety-related issues. She regularly handles issues following serious accidents, including HSE investigations and prosecutions.
Immigration: Business
Nichola Carter has a leading reputation for her advice to education sector clients on immigration matters. She also works with corporate clients and has a practice that covers a broad spectrum, including sponsor licence issues and advice on the EU Settlement Scheme. A client said: ‘Nichola is brilliant. She is the queen of student compliance.’
Information Technology
Jessica Bent is a partner with ample experience advising tech and software firms headquartered across Europe on their policies and agreements, with noted experience providing guidance on data and privacy issues. A source said: ‘Jessica is excellent, and I would not hesitate to recommend her to clients for specialist IT work.’
Rebecca Steer helps emerging tech companies protect their products and secure licence agreements with corporates at home and abroad. She has extensive professional connections with the US West Coast technology scene. A source said: ‘Rebecca is an exemplary lawyer.’
Information Technology & Outsourcing
Vanessa Barnett is recommended for her work on behalf of high-growth, venture capital-backed technology businesses, helping them achieve scale, enable internet-led business models, negotiate licence arrangements and navigate the regulatory landscape. One source said: ‘Vanessa is very responsive and always willing to help.’ An additional source added: ‘Vanessa is a market expert.’
Insurance: Contentious Claims & Reinsurance
James Crabtree primarily represents reinsurers in claims and coverage disputes, as well as advising more broadly on issues pertaining to reinsurance contracts. One client said: ‘James Crabtree is an excellent solicitor. He’s highly meticulous and exceptionally client service oriented. He never gets overly bogged down in the legal points, and always understands the client’s needs.’
Insurance: Mainly Policyholders
Jane Harte-Lovelace represents policyholder clients in disputes with insurers and brokers, as well as providing advice on policy review. She has particular strength advising on construction and property-related claims. One client commented: ‘Jane has a formidable reputation for her work on behalf of policy holders.’
Marie-Claire di Mambro is a highly experienced practitioner who has historically worked with both insurers and policyholders. She regularly advises her clients on COVID-19 business interruption claims. A client said: ‘Marie-Claire is a hugely talented policyholder lawyer.’ A second source said: ‘She has an exceptional reputation in the niche area of insurance claims on behalf of policyholders. She has deep knowledge of insurance law, especially a feel for the way insurers think, based on long experience. In my view, she is the best practitioner in this area in the UK.’
Intellectual Property
Carl Rohsler is known for representing his clients across a broad range of IP issues including trade mark, copyright, confidential information and patent matters. He also assists his clients with the management of their IP portfolio and brand protection. He brings his commercial law expertise into his IP advisory work for his clients. A client said: ‘Carl is fantastic. He’s the best.’
Karen May Fong handles both complex disputes and commercial IP matters. Recent work includes copyright and registered designs cases, as well as strategic IP advice. A client said: ‘I am very impressed with Karen.’
Will Sander is held in high regard for his practice as both a solicitor and a chartered trade mark and design attorney. He is well versed in licensing and all kinds of IP disputes, including trade mark, designs and copyright infringement litigation. A source commended Will getting ‘the result that was required and got it quickly.’
Jessica Bent advises well-known brands and emerging innovators on contentious and commercial copyright and trade mark matters. She has a significant client following in publishing. A source commented: ‘Jessica has the ability to convey the most important principles in a way that makes a great deal of sense and is pitched at exactly the right level.’
Rebecca Halford-Harrison has a wide-ranging IP practice encompassing patent, trade mark and copyright disputes. She is particularly recommended for litigation concerning chemicals and electronics technologies.
Simon Chalkley is an expert in brand management and licensing and has a large and varied client following, particularly among fashion and consumer goods makers. Much of his work has international dimensions.
Rebecca Steer helps emerging tech companies protect their products and secure licence agreements with corporates at home and abroad. She has extensive professional connections with the US West Coast technology scene. A source said: ‘Rebecca stands out for her combination of technical expertise, commercial awareness and responsiveness.’
International Arbitration
Benjamin Knowles is well versed in handling commercial international arbitrations, particularly those arising in the energy, telecoms and construction sectors. He was praised by a source for being: ‘very, very good at managing clients with difficult cases. He is completely relaxed and makes sure everything works and reassures that it will.’
Licensing
Andrew Wong is often instructed by clients in the entertainment and hospitality sectors. He advises on all kinds of licence applications. A source said: ‘Andrew is fantastic, methodical, thoughtful and a top lawyer.’
Gareth Hughes represents prominent clients across London, including hotels, bars and clubs. He combines his impressive licensing expertise with a wealth of experience in planning law to advise on a broad range of complex issues. One source said: ‘Gareth has a very assured style of presentation.’
Sarah Taylor advises clients primarily in relation to contentious issues related to new licence applications, as well as licence variations. A source noted: ‘Sarah certainly knows this area really well. She was excellent at advising us and had the gravitas to get us comfortable in a short amount of time in an area we knew nothing about.’
Luke Elford centres his practice on alcohol and entertainment licensing matters. He has specific expertise in premises licence applications and closure notices. A client said: ‘I have been working with Luke for years and he has always done an excellent job for me.’
Richard Arnot is widely regarded for his representation of clients in contested licensing applications. He has particular strength in advising clients in the retail and entertainment sectors. A source said: ‘Richard is very quick and has fantastic knowledge, and the connections he has within the licensing world have made all my dealings with him successful.’
Marcus Lavell is a barrister who is specialised in licensing and regulation, and represents leading bars and nightclubs in London and nationally. He has extensive experience in obtaining grants against stress area and cumulative impact zone policies.
Niall McCann’s practice involves acting for clients in the hospitality and entertainment sectors. He frequently advises on licensing applications and negotiations with local authorities.
Life Sciences: Transactional
Vicky Clark advises on research, licensing and collaboration agreements. Her clients include an array of emerging companies working at the forefront of innovation in the sector. A client said: ‘We are really pleased with her representation, and we continue to work with her.’
Litigation
David Farnell has in-depth knowledge of financial sector disputes and is regularly called upon to act for clients in matters involving allegations of fraud, contractual disputes and recovery actions. A source said: ‘David is absolutely at the top of his game, and I would instruct him to act for me if I ever found myself on the wrong end of a commercial claim.’
Media and Entertainment: Music: Non-contentious
Nick Weaser is called upon by artists, producers and managers alike to advise on all manner of issues including commercial contracts, recording and publishing agreements, and live performance. A source commented: ‘Nick is one of the best lawyers we’ve ever worked with as a business and on a personal level. He’s always demonstrated an incredible awareness of his role and the importance of it for us and for his clients.’
Mental health: Patients
Zena Bolwig is an experienced practitioner who specialises in Court of Protection cases and supporting clients who lack capacity. She has particular experience handling deprivation of liberty cases.
Offshore: Corporate & Finance
Sally Cranshaw is well regarded for her work advising financial institutions, investment managers and corporate entities on real estate finance matters. A source said: ‘Sally consistently shows strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to handle complex tasks independently.’
Geoff Kermeen maintains a broad practice encompassing both corporate and finance elements. His clients include financial institutions and private equity funds.
Offshore: Dispute Resolution
Andrew Marshall is a consultant advocate noted for his work in dispute resolution. He is sought out for his expertise in areas such as shareholder disputes, fraud and professional liability. A source said: ‘Andrew is a fantastic lawyer who truly understood the finer details at hand and was able to act decisively and firmly in a complex situation.’
Offshore: Employment
Andrew Marshall is recognised for Offshore: Employment. A client said: ‘Andrew is calm and rational-minded in difficult conversations.’
Ben Hughes is sought after for his expertise in pension and employee benefits. A source said: ‘Ben is a wonderful pensions lawyer.’
Parliamentary & Public Affairs: Electoral Law
James Tumbridge operates a broad electoral law practice, advising on areas such as compliance and fundraising in political campaigns, as well as offering considerable expertise in intellectual property, digital compliance and data protection matters. A source said: ‘We have a high degree of confidence in James’ judgement and trust his advice implicitly, knowing that it is always given with a thorough understanding of our business.’
Partnership: Contentious
Peter Garry has great depth of experience advising clients in the legal and medical services sectors on complex partnership negotiations and disputes. A source said: ‘Peter Garry is a terrific partnership lawyer; he is so good at the law and willing to roll up his sleeves and hit people with a stick. He is delightful. When you sent him emails, he would immediately get up to speed and was able to make life difficult for the other side.’
Clive Howard is a seasoned practitioner in employment and partnership law, with specific expertise in advising individuals from the financial services sector regarding high-value partner exits. A source said: ‘Clive is efficient; he uses his huge experience to steer this to a successful conclusion more quickly.’
Emma Clark undertakes work across a variety of partnership disputes, including discrimination claims and partner exits. She is particularly active advising individuals who are partners at law firms. A source said: ‘Emma Clark combined quality advice with a responsive service.’ A client added: ‘Emma has the ability to deliver pragmatic advice in an empathetic and warm manner. Her ability to lead negotiations calmly and firmly with the counterparty meant that a potentially stressful situation felt much more navigable with Emma on my side.’
Pensions
David Griffiths is a long-standing presence in the field, acting for trustees and employers on pension scheme mergers and buyouts, as well as handling funding arrangements. He also advises on the implications of corporate transactions and restructurings on pension schemes.
Ben Hughes is based in Keystone’s Isle of Man office, and regularly advises corporate clients and trustees on the establishment, administration and termination of pension plans.
Monica Ma has a broad pensions practice and often works with clients on deficit issues and benefit changes.
Planning
Yohanna Weber exhibits an incredible knowledge of a wide range of planning matters including infrastructure, renewable energy projects and residential developments. She acts for developers, commercial property owners and energy companies.
Christopher Stanwell has experience advising private and public entities on developments across the retail, office, industrial and leisure sectors, as well as infrastructure and urban mixed-use projects. He also assists with compulsory purchase orders. A source noted: ‘Christopher has experience of working with similar clients and is very alive to the sensitivities and challenges faced by our particular type of business. He is highly responsive, thoughtful and has expertise that is unrivalled in the market.’
David Warman is an impressive planning practitioner who is regularly sought by high-profile clients to act in complex matters. He has in-depth knowledge of such issues as compulsory purchase orders in residential developments, public inquiries and issues related to listed buildings. One source commented: ‘David is an excellent lawyer and is brilliant with clients.’
Richard Max is a highly experienced lawyer with a strong track record in planning matters related to residential and retail, infrastructure, leisure and office developments. He is also well equipped to represent his clients at public inquiries. A contact said: ‘Richard is particularly good at responding to the client’s needs; he anticipates where anxieties might be, and he’s always quick to get in a meeting or summarise where we’re heading next or have a plan to respond to changing events.’
Tom Barton provides planning advice on a number of development projects. He is particularly well versed in handling proceedings at public inquiry, often those pertaining to enforcement matters. A source said: ‘Tom is incredibly commercial and has great client skills.’
Ben Garbett is a highly knowledgeable planning practitioner able to advise a range of clients including landowners and developers on large scale commercial and residential development projects. A source noted: ‘He does planning work and he is very good in how he operates. He is the first port of call.’
Private Equity: Venture Capital Investment
Susanna Stanfield maintains a notable practice at Keystone Law, advising investor and investee companies in the life sciences and technology sectors.
Professional Discipline
Tracy Sell-Peters acts for both regulators and professionals, with a particular emphasis on healthcare matters. A source said: ‘Tracy is a very good lawyer.’
Frank Maher has outstanding experience acting for regional and international firms and their insurers in professional negligence claims. One source said: ‘Frank is a safe pair of hands and is someone you would want to work alongside you.’
Andrea James advises on a comprehensive range of professional disciplinary matters and has extensive experience defending clients throughout the regulatory process. She has particular expertise in the healthcare regulatory space. A source said: ‘She is extremely robust in defending her registrants and demonstrates a deep commitment to her clients.’ A second said: ‘Andrea is exceptionally highly regarded and possesses an outstanding knowledge of the law. She combines deep technical expertise with specialist insight.’
Susan Mawdsley focuses on advising law firms on interactions with the SRA concerning anti-money laundering matters and disciplinary investigations.
Professional Negligence
Jonathan Watmough acts for clients in claims against a variety of professionals, including insurance brokers, solicitors and accountants. A client commented: ‘He is excellent, very intelligent, balanced, clear in communication and gets to the core issues very quickly.’
Frank Maher has outstanding experience acting for regional and international firms and their insurers in professional negligence claims. A client said: ‘Frank is a terrific lawyer.’ With another source adding: ‘Frank Maher is a subject matter expert who is very well respected, and is at the forefront of an ever-changing world.’
Real Estate Litigation
Andrew Tugwell is noted for his skills as a litigator and arbitrator. He acts for clients including real estate agencies, hotels and investors in a range of property disputes, particularly those concerning issues related to surveying or valuation.
Jonathan Ross is a highly regarded practitioner who is sought after for disputes relating to commercial property. He is experienced in areas including negligence claims and right of way cases. A client commented: ‘Jonathan worked on a couple of matters pushing the outer boundaries of property law. He is a delight to deal with as he has already gone through everything with a fine-tooth comb. Historically, he has been one of the best in the game and is very experienced.’
Andrew Myers has a broad litigation practice that sees him advising on a range of property-related disputes, including service charge, enfranchisement and professional negligence claims. His clients include trustees, leaseholders and investors. A source said: ‘Andrew Myers is one of the most effective lawyers I’ve come across. He has terrific property intellect and legal skills, and great commercial instinct as well.’
Shinead Wilson is primarily noted for her expertise in right to light matters but also has experience in acting across a range of commercial and residential issues, including neighbour disputes.
Restructuring/Insolvency
Stephen Young is a restructuring and insolvency specialist with particular experience in the real estate, IT consultancy and business consultancy sectors. A client said: ‘He adopts a commercial approach and provides detailed clear advice on the options available.’
Elaine Nolan has a practice that spans the gamut of domestic and international restructuring and insolvency matters, with notable experience advising retailers and casual dining businesses regarding CVAs. She is adept at acting on behalf of creditors, debtors and administrators. A source said: ‘Elaine Nolan is very professional and highly regarded.’
Aman Sehgal is a restructuring and insolvency partner with experience advising on complex corporate and personal insolvencies. He is particularly proficient advising on directors’ disqualification proceedings, company restorations, bankruptcies and fraud investigations. A source said: ‘Aman is always on hand and gives good practical advice.’
Restructuring/Insolvency: Personal Insolvency
Edward Judge advises on mandates across the personal insolvency space, often acting for trustees in bankruptcy proceedings. He is also well placed to advise on contentious matters, including those with offshore and cross-border aspects. A source commented that he is ‘very experienced’.
Sanctions
Charles Enderby-Smith advises corporate groups and individuals on challenges to sanctions. He regularly works with individuals based in the Middle East. A source said: ‘Charles Enderby Smith is really good.’
Shipping
Fei Mao is highlighted for her expertise in litigation and arbitration. Her expertise includes advising on charter parties, bills of lading, international sales of goods, and shipbuilding contracts and disputes. One client commented: ‘Fei is an outstanding shipping lawyer who consistently demonstrates a rigorous work ethic, exceptional responsiveness, and a high standard of legal advice.’
Anastasia Papadopoulou specialises in ship finance and often advises ship owners and financial institutions on debt finance restructurings and lease finance transactions.
Linos Choo is proficient in contentious matters, especially those pertaining to ship financing. He frequently acts for banking and ship owner clients. A source said: ‘Linos stands out for his excellent English law expertise, deep understanding of shipping and commodities disputes, and strong commercial judgement.’
Sport: Horse Racing & Equestrian
Rachel Flynn’s wide-ranging equestrian law practice at Keystone Law sees her advise on contentious work, such as veterinary negligence and contractual disputes, as well as commercial and regulatory issues. Clients say: ‘Rachel is approachable, easy to work with, and does lots of racing work, including a lot of employment work for trainers.’
Practice rankings
East Anglia: Employment
Keystone Law demonstrates an ability to advise clients from a broad array of sectors, including media, financial services, education and healthcare. Clients utilise the firm for its ability to assist with both contentious and non-contentious matters, such as discrimination, TUPE, immigration and whistleblowing. A client said: ‘‘Keystone has expertise from many years of specialising in this area. The team is knowledgeable, well informed and skilled. They provide reliable and practical advice.’ A second client said: ‘The team demonstrates excellent depth and breadth, with strong expertise across a wide range of areas. It’s clear they have a well-rounded team with the knowledge and experience to provide practical, reliable advice.’
East Anglia: Family/Matrimonial
Keystone Law’s family team advises across the span of family and matrimonial law. The team regularly handles difficult cases of divorce, the welfare and placement of children, as well as broader family disputes. The Keystone network also offers advice on related private client and reputation management matters. A client said: ‘Information and advice is always clear and decisive and any questions about possible future scenarios are answered promptly. We always felt confident of a prompt response to emails and phone calls, especially those that were urgent, and that full undivided attention is given to each request for help or advice.’
London: Employment: Senior Executive
Keystone Law houses a number of market-leading experts in employment law with practitioners able to guide senior employees through the full range of matters that they face during their careers. The firm’s board-level clients regularly seek advice on contentious discrimination and whistle-blowing claims as well as senior exits. Keystone’s solicitors have notable expertise across the employment courts from the Employment Tribunal to the High Court. One source commented: ‘What distinguishes the department from others is its judgement in sensitive matters, its network of specialist expertise, and its ability to support clients.’ A second source said: ‘Technically, they were at the highest level, backed up by excellent communication and interpersonal skills.’
London: Family/Matrimonial Finance: High Net Worth
Keystone Law has a team of experienced family law specialists well equipped to handle prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, divorce and financial remedy matters on behalf of high-net-worth individuals.
One client said: ‘Keystone Law is knowledgeable, approachable and down to earth. They also have the ability to draw from colleagues in other specialisms if necessary.’ Another source commented: ‘Keystone’s standout strength is the depth and breadth of expertise they can draw on across the wider firm, and how seamlessly they bring that institutional knowledge into a live family matter. When specialist input is needed, they are able to tap the right people quickly and integrate that advice into a coherent strategy without slowing things down or over-lawyering.’
London: Intellectual Property
Keystone Law is well-known for bringing partner-level expertise into its IP matters. The firm represents clients on complex disputes across IP rights and advises on commercial transactions with an IP focus. A client of the team said: ‘Their strengths are their great attention to detail, inventive argumentation and high responsiveness. The firm are very experienced and thorough.’
London: Intellectual Property: Law Firms With Patent & Trade Mark Attorneys
Keystone Law is well-known for bringing partner-level expertise into its IP matters. The firm represents clients on complex disputes across IP rights and advises on commercial transactions with an IP focus. A client said: ‘Keystone Law shows an ability to see the commercial angle in the context of cost. They know where to get help in relation to complicated matters. They are well organised and coordinated.’
London: Planning
Keystone Law advises clients across a wide range of planning matters, including compulsory purchase and compensation, planning applications and Section 106 agreements for developments as well as planning appeals and objections. A source said: ‘Keystone Law has vast experience of complex planning matters, and provides advice that cuts to the heart of the issue without waffle. There is keen awareness of current and future legislative and policy change, and the lawyers are superbly responsive, often at short notice as required.’
London: Real Estate Litigation
The property litigation department at Keystone Law advises corporate commercial clients as well as landowners, developers and high net worth individuals on a range of issues. Lawyers at the firm have deep experience in handling matters regarding commercial landlord and tenant, possession and restrictive covenants, among others. A client said: ‘Keystone’s accessibility has been a central strength of the firm, complemented by the clarity of all communication and advice. We appreciated the swift responses and accurate information provided at every stage.’
Offshore: Corporate & Finance
Keystone Law’s Isle of Man lawyers service a broad range of clients. They advise corporate entities, both local and international, on acquisitions, sales and complex structuring matters. The firm’s financing capabilities are well known, and Keystone’s lawyers regularly assist top UK banks and financial institutions with both borrower-side and lender-side representation. One source said: ‘Keystone Law offers prompt responses and is solution-driven.’
Offshore: Employment
Keystone Law has a well-regarded employment practice. The team is adept at handling a variety of employment mandates, including unfair dismissal, whistle-blowing claims and disciplinary procedures. The firm has notable experience acting for both employers and employees. A client said: ‘The team at Keystone Law is always responsive and available, which is the key attribute. Nothing is too much trouble for the group.’
South West: Construction
Keystone Law houses an able team of lawyers advising on both contentious and non-contentious matters. The team assists contractors, developers and other clients with construction projects in a range of sectors including hospitality, education and energy. The department is well versed in handling contractual negotiations as well as representing clients in adjudications and other dispute resolution proceedings. One source commented: ‘Keystone Law has always provided us with its full and complete expertise with great commercial awareness, aligning legal advice with our business objectives. They always provide practical, timely and commercially sensible advice.’
South West: Intellectual Property
Leveraging a notable level of expertise across core IP rights, Keystone Law acts for clients ranging from charities and restaurants to computer gaming companies. The team handles a broad array of IP protection and commercialisation matters, encompassing IP asset audits, trade mark registrations, licensing contracts, assignments and technology-transfer agreements. Keystone Law also offers notable capabilities in contentious IP matters, including copyright infringement disputes. A contact said: [The team] are responsive and listen to clients’ needs. They also have strong technical knowledge and provide a good service.
UK-wide: Gaming
Keystone Law advises domestic and international clients on a range of gaming issues, including those related to online gambling apps. The firm’s offering includes a proficiency in handling high-profile contentious matters in the space. The team is also highly respected for its expertise in the field of licensing. One source said: ‘What distinguishes the Keystone team is its deep knowledge of the industry and its evident capability in handling the legal complexities specific to the gaming sector.’
UK-wide: Licensing
Keystone Law represents a range of clients from the hospitality, sport and entertainment industries in a range of licensing matters, including premises and operating licences in cumulative impact zones. The firm also advises on enforcement and compliance issues. A client said of the team: ‘The firm has a firm grasp of the law and commercial realities, as well as understanding of our business.’
UK-wide: Partnership
Keystone Law advises clients on both contentious and non-contentious partnership matters. It provides advice on corporate governance and LLP agreements, including work for law firms. It also undertakes work regarding partner exits and sensitive matters such as discrimination investigations. A client said: ‘The firm is full of super-experienced lawyers.’
UK-wide: Pensions
Keystone Law’s pensions team advises employers, trustees and individuals on complex pension arrangements, disputes, transactions and regulatory requirements. A source said: ‘Keystone Law’s team demonstrated exceptional regulatory strategy, with deep, specialised legal expertise and familiarity with the regulators and their requirements. Their responsiveness overall was excellent, marked by clear communication, timely delivery on complex documents, and a commitment to transparency. This level of service has made them an exceptionally reliable and client-focused partner throughout the engagement.’
UK-wide: Shipping
Keystone Law has wide-ranging expertise across its marine and shipping teams covering contentious and non-contentious mandates. The firm’s experience includes insurance disputes, collisions and salvage claims, product liability, ship finance, refinance and restructuring, debt finance, lease finance, equity finance, and joint venture and shareholder agreements. One contact commented: ‘What distinguishes Keystone Law’s shipping team is its combination of deep technical expertise in English maritime and finance law with a genuinely practical, business-oriented approach. The lawyers we have worked with are able to provide clear, well-reasoned analysis on complex cross-border issues while remaining responsive to the commercial realities and timelines our institution faces.’
UK-wide: Sport: Horse Racing & Equestrian
Keystone Law has a network of equestrian expertise to hand for industry clients, advising bloodstock agents, owners and breeders, and charities and competitive organisations, on the full suite of industry-specific and broader commercial and legal matters. One client said: ‘They have in depth knowledge of the equine industry and are super-efficient and knowledgeable.’