Independent editorial overview of leading construction law practices in London focusing on disputes, arbitration and adjudication. This guide highlights firms recognised for handling complex contractual disputes, delay and disruption claims, professional negligence in construction, payment disputes and international arbitration. Interested in a professionally optimised subpage for your firm or as an individual lawyer, plus a trust badge if you haven’t received one? Please get in touch via our contact page.
The firms listed below are selected based on independent directory rankings, public case experience and specialist lawyer profiles. Each entry includes three key lawyers and one or two trusted references.
Top construction disputes law firms in London
- Pinsent Masons LLP London
Internationally renowned for construction and infrastructure disputes, acting in UK courts and international arbitration.
Notable lawyers: Richard Laudy, Mark Roe, Stacy Sinclair.
Sources: 1
- White & Case LLP London
Global disputes powerhouse handling major international construction arbitrations and infrastructure disputes.
Notable lawyers: Phillip Capper, Ellis Baker, Christopher Seppala.
Sources: 2
- Herbert Smith Freehills London
Market leading firm in construction litigation and international arbitration, with deep expertise in energy and infrastructure projects.
Notable lawyers: James Doe, David Nitek, Craig Tevendale.
Sources: 3
- Fenwick Elliott LLP London
Specialist construction and energy disputes boutique, widely recognised for adjudication and arbitration expertise.
Notable lawyers: Simon Tolson, Nicholas Gould, Jeremy Glover.
Sources: 4
- CMS Cameron McKenna Nabarro Olswang LLP London
Large team acting in high value UK and international construction disputes, particularly in energy and infrastructure.
Notable lawyers: Adrian Bell, Nick Beckett, Rachel Curran.
Sources: 5
- Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP London
Top tier international arbitration firm handling construction and engineering disputes worldwide.
Notable lawyers: Nigel Blackaby, Will Thomas KC, Lucy Reed.
Sources: 6
- Ashurst LLP London
Strong construction disputes team advising contractors, funders and developers on litigation and arbitration.
Notable lawyers: Tim Reid, Matthew Saunders, Deborah Brown.
Sources: 7
- Clifford Chance LLP London
Magic Circle firm with international arbitration strength covering large construction and infrastructure disputes.
Notable lawyers: Audley Sheppard KC, Jessica Gladstone, Nick Fletcher KC.
Sources: 8
- Hogan Lovells London
Global firm with strong construction and engineering disputes capability, including cross-border arbitration.
Notable lawyers: Michael Mendelblat, Nicholas Cheung, Louise Moore.
Sources: 9
- Keating Chambers London
Leading set of barristers chambers specialising in construction disputes, adjudication and arbitration.
Notable lawyers: Adrian Williamson KC, Sarah Hannaford KC, Tom Owen.
Sources: 10
Frequently asked questions
What are construction disputes
They are legal disagreements arising from construction or engineering projects, covering issues such as defects, delays, payment and professional negligence.
What forums resolve construction disputes
They can be resolved in the Technology and Construction Court (TCC), through adjudication, arbitration, mediation or negotiation.
What is adjudication in construction law
A statutory process in the UK allowing parties to resolve payment or contract disputes quickly, often within 28 days.
Do most disputes settle before trial
Yes. Many are resolved by mediation or negotiated settlement to avoid lengthy and costly court or arbitration proceedings.
How long do construction disputes last
Adjudications may resolve within weeks, while complex High Court or arbitration cases may take months to years depending on complexity.
What damages can be recovered
Damages may cover the cost of rectifying defects, losses due to delay, loss of profit and professional fees.
Can international arbitration be used
Yes. Many large projects are subject to arbitration clauses, and London is a global hub for construction arbitration.
Do I need specialist lawyers
Yes. Construction law is highly technical and specialist solicitors and barristers bring expertise on contract forms like JCT, NEC and FIDIC.
What role do experts play
Surveyors, engineers and quantum experts often provide crucial evidence on technical issues and valuations.
How do I choose the right firm
Consider their track record in similar projects, recognition in directories, experience in ADR and availability of specialist barristers.
Endnotes
- Pinsent Masons construction advisory & disputes. Source: Pinsent Masons.
- White & Case construction practice. Source: White & Case.
- Herbert Smith Freehills construction disputes. Source: HSF.
- Fenwick Elliott specialist firm. Source: Fenwick Elliott.
- CMS construction services. Source: CMS.
- Freshfields arbitration overview. Source: Freshfields.
- Ashurst construction disputes. Source: Ashurst.
- Clifford Chance arbitration. Source: Clifford Chance.
- Hogan Lovells construction and engineering. Source: Hogan Lovells.
- Keating Chambers. Source: Keating Chambers.
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