Mr Michael Bywell > Stephenson Harwood > London, England > Lawyer Profile

The widely lauded team at Stephenson Harwood is described as ‘really experienced and technically excellent’ by one client, with the practice fielding particular strength in cross-border disputes. Large corporate, joint venture, and partnership disputes across the energy, financial services, shipping, aviation, and real estate sectors are mainstays of the practice. At leadership level, ‘knowledgeable’ head of team Richard Garcia routinely ‘seeks to go the extra miles for his clients’. ‘Force of nature’ Sue Millar is a key name to note, as are ‘absolute star’ Genevieve Quierin and ‘extremely clever and astute’ Stephen Ashley, with Millar recognised for her impressive sanctions-related expertise. The team has grown significantly with the arrival with Dan Smith from Latham & Watkins in June 2022, Michael Bywell from Hausfeld & Co LLP in January 2023, and Peter Dalton from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in February 2023.

Stephenson Harwood’s technology team handles a broad range of IT and telecoms matters, from product licensing and development of AI solutions to M&A transactions and investments. Practice head Simon Bollans advises established technology clients and start-ups on outsourcing mandates, while Michael Bywell leads on data breach class actions.

Under the leadership of the ‘standout‘ Katie Hewson, the data protection team at Stephenson Harwood advises tech sector clients on emerging data protection legislation and also handles international data transfers, breach work, and investigations. Simon Bollans advises on cybersecurity as well as the data privacy and regulatory aspects of emerging technologies. Michael Bywell and Peter Dalton joined in early 2023 from Hausfeld & Co LLP and Herbert Smith Freehills LLP, respectively, strengthening the team’s technology disputes and cyber capabilities. ‘Vastly talented‘ associate Olivia Fraser is recommended for her experience advising on the data aspects of corporate transactions.

Stephenson Harwood fields a ‘excellent team with a relentless focus on getting clients results’, with particular strength in private enforcement and group litigation. Its client roster consists of hotel groups, leading retailers and universities, and technology companies. The practice is led by Genevieve Quierin, described as a ‘brilliant litigator, a savvy strategist and a superb communicator‘. The team continues to expand, with the arrival of Dan Smith from Latham & Watkins in June 2022, Michael Bywell from Hausfeld & Co LLP in January 2023, and Peter Dalton from Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in February 2023. Ben Sigler sustains a focus on the financial and technology sectors.