When a business dispute threatens cash flow or reputation, you need a specialist UK commercial litigation team. Below is a curated list of leading firms experienced in complex, high‑value cases, shareholder disputes, contractual claims, fraud, and cross‑border litigation.
Top UK Commercial Litigation Law Firms
Saunders Law
Specialist litigation firm acting in complex commercial and corporate disputes for UK and international clients.
Legal 500 Quote: “Matthew Purcell’s team advises a diverse client group, from medium-sized businesses, to global PLCs, individuals and charitable organisations. The team has a particular presence in the Middle East and Asia, advising sovereign wealth funds, global holding companies and manufacturers, in £100m+ disputes and arbitrations. The team works closely with the firm’s media lawyers, protecting the rights of artists, media and entertainment companies and those in the creative and entertainment industries..”
Fantastic Lawyer: Matthew Purcell: Partner & Head of Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution at Saunders Law, specialising in heavy commercial litigation, including civil and commercial fraud, high-value asset recovery, and appellate work.
Herbert Smith Freehills
Magic Circle‑level disputes practice noted for big‑ticket corporate and financial litigation, including group actions and cross‑border matters.
Testimonial: “the go-to name on the team for contentious matters, with his experience including cross-border disputes related to major energy projects” (Legal 500) and “He’s strategic, tough and shrewd; he understands the client and what they need to achieve” (Chambers UK).
Fantastic Lawyer: James Baily — Solicitor Advocate and Partner in the Dispute Resolution division in London, with over 20 years advising on a wide spectrum of commercial disputes such as energy, IT, cryptocurrency, defence, logistics, and consumer matters
Clifford Chance
Powerful London litigation team handling shareholder disputes, breach of contract cases, and multi‑jurisdictional claims.
Testimonial: “Faces litigation with a very strategic and technical vision.”
Fantastic Lawyer: Maxine Mossman — Highlighted in Chambers as an “utter joy to work with” and “immensely brainy,” she focuses on corporate transactional and contractual disputes, including contested acquisitions, and is highly praised for her litigation acumen.
Linklaters
Elite litigators for complex, international disputes across banking, tech, energy, and major corporates.
Testimonial: “Truly exceptional for complex international litigation, from strategy to execution.”
Fantastic Lawyer: Rebecca Burton — Partner in the Litigation, Arbitration & Investigations team in London, advising multinational clients on financial markets, commercial, ESG and competition litigation, and shareholder disputes across borders.
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer
Market‑leading team for high‑stakes multi‑party and multi‑jurisdiction litigation, acting for blue‑chip clients.
Testimonial: “The gold standard for client service, second to none.”
Fantastic Lawyer: Samantha Trevan — London head of commercial disputes, highly rated (Band 5 in Chambers), with deep expertise handling complex, cross-border contractual and transactional litigation
Slaughter and May
Highly regarded for significant contractual and shareholder disputes, contested transactions, and joint venture claims.
Testimonial: “Represents the gold standard, with exceptional strength in depth.”
Fantastic Lawyer: Richard Swallow — Head of the Disputes and Investigations Group, experienced in corporate crime, sanctions investigations, group/class action litigation, and banking disputes.
Hogan Lovells
Global litigation heavyweight, frequently instructed on high‑value commercial disputes and market‑impact cases.
Testimonial: “Excellent, user‑friendly advice, responsive and effective.”
Fantastic Lawyer: Kevin Lloyd — Acclaimed commercial litigator in the Legal 500’s Hall of Fame and ranked Band 1 by Chambers, specialising in complex, “bet-the-company” disputes across sectors, including financial services and multinationals.
A&O Shearman
Experienced disputes group for high‑end clients in financial services, energy, and technology, adept in cross‑border cases.
Testimonial: “Always up to speed and hands‑on, fast with advice.”
Fantastic Lawyer: Susanna Charlwood — UK Head of Commercial Litigation, recognised for representing clients in high-profile, complex commercial disputes before English courts and in multi-jurisdictional proceedings,
FAQs
What does a commercial litigation lawyer do?
They resolve business disputes, including contracts, shareholders, fraud, and professional negligence.
How do I pick the right firm?
Match sector experience, case type, team seniority, and funding options to your needs.
Do cases always go to court?
No. Many settle via negotiation, mediation, or arbitration.
How long do cases take?
Simple disputes can settle in months. Complex cases may take a year or more.
What are typical fees?
Hourly rates vary widely. Options may include CFA, DBA, or fixed‑fee phases.
Can SMEs use top firms?
Yes. Many offer phased budgets and alternative fee structures.
What documents should I prepare?
Contracts, emails, board minutes, invoices, and a clear chronology of events.
What counts as a strong case?
Clear breach, solid evidence, quantifiable loss, and realistic enforcement prospects.
Is arbitration faster?
Often. It can be faster and more confidential, but rules and costs vary.