Twenty Essex
Twenty Essex is ‘a very strong set in the international arbitration arena with many outstanding arbitrators’ such as Sir Bernard Rix, Sara Masters KC, and Duncan Matthews KC. Appointments span all major arbitral institutions including ad-hoc arbitrations under the UNCITRAL rules across many sectors including energy, insurance, mining, IP, pharmaceuticals and a wide range of commercial disputes. While the set continues to be globally recognised and respected for its strong commercial expertise, its reputation for investor-state work grows with regular investor-state arbitration appointments. Notable additions boosting the set’s bench strength include Baiju Vasani, Wendy Miles KC, both also acting as counsel, and Philippa Charles, who joined from Stewarts Law LLP. Clare Ambrose is particularly sought-after as a full member of the LMAA and Sir Peter Gross attracts appointments in maritime as well as commercial disputes. Kate Parlett is building a strong practice of high-value international commercial arbitration appointments.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'They have recently hired Catherine Reeves, who has changed the game. She is fantastic in engaging with the arbitration community, organising key events and is the go-to person when considering arbitrators. She is keen on the right kind of diversity and has made it clear, which is hugely appreciated.'
- 'Catherine Reeves deserves a special mention - an excellent and very experienced arbitration specialist managing the arbitrators' practices.'
- 'Twenty Essex is the top set in arbitration - both for arbitrators and counsel. It is a leading set historically but have recently reinvigorated their approach - offering interesting debates, hosting events. They have expertise across commercial, investor-state and state-state arbitrations - which is rare.'
- 'Twenty Essex has a very good reputation as the home of a large number of arbitrators with expertise across a wide range of fields.'
Silks
Leading arbitrators
Hall of fameTwenty Essex
‘Bernard has a commanding presence as a tribunal chair. He is experienced, decisive and very hard-working – all of which are critical qualities for an arbitrator deciding complex commercial disputes. He was a pleasure to sit with as an arbitrator and an excellent arbitrator.’
Hall of fameTwenty Essex
'A reliable and vastly experienced arbitrator with excellent commercial nous. A perfect candidate for the role of presiding arbitrator.'
Hall of fameTwenty Essex
‘ Michael is meticulous in his approach. He is thoughtful, careful and courteous and is easy to work with.'
Leading counsel as arbitrators
1Hall of fameTwenty Essex
‘Sara is absolutely fantastic. She stands out as one of the best arbitrators, successfully chairing over very senior counsel and former judges. Sara is extremely responsive, entirely on top of procedural matters and effective in dealing with a number of issues. Proceedings run smoothly and, in large part, thanks to Sara’s incredibly incisive mind and great humour – one of the rare finds of an outstanding arbitrator who ticks every box.’
Hall of fameTwenty Essex
‘Wendy is absolutely at the top of her game. She is so well-informed, interested and well-prepared for everything she does, and she presents with enthusiasm and a directness of style which is refreshing and productive.’