International arbitration: counsel

39 Essex Chambers

With strong ties to the Asia-Pacific region, members of 39 Essex Chambers are well-equipped to handle arbitrations concerning SIAC and HKIAC rules, while also handling matters before the LCIA, ICC and other fora. Some consider the set the ‘first port of call when considering instructing counsel in respect of construction and engineering disputes’, with Karim Ghaly KC often representing building contractors internationally in high-value arbitrations. At the junior end are Jonathan Bellamy and Vivek Kapoor, who handle energy and infrastructure disputes, among other matters.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

'Lindsay Scott is knowledgeable, friendly and always willing to help - well connected. Harvey Scott and Darcey Bourne - junior but great potential.'
'The team is headed by the competent Lindsay Scott and Darcey Bourne is a clerk to watch.'
'Lindsay Scott is one of the best Chief Executives around. Knows her barristers well and understands what law firms need. Identifies the right barrister or arbitrator for the matter. She is very responsive to requests for barristers and arbitrators.'
'The clerking service at 39 Essex chambers is very professional.'
'The clerks are very efficient and responsive.'
'39 Essex are the first port of call when considering instructing counsel and/or arbitrators in respect of construction and engineering disputes.'
'39 Essex is a set that we regularly turn to when instructing counsel because of the consistent detailed approach and team ethos.'
'The set is well-regarded for its depth of expertise in international arbitration. It attracts top-tier talent and fosters an environment that promotes collaborative learning and professional development.'

Silks

Leading Silks

KCs at the very top of their field, with a long-established record of market-defining cases, and widespread endorsement from clients and peers. All silks appointed in the last two rounds are listed further below.

Adrian Hughes KC

39 Essex Chambers

‘Adrian's strategic instincts are excellent, and his advocacy is masterful. He also has superb client care and inspires confidence.’

Karim Ghaly KC

39 Essex Chambers

‘Karim simplifies the most complex issues with ease and his ability to master large amounts of details with ease is unparalleled. He brings a calm presence to the proceedings, never loses sight of what really matters and what will resonate with the tribunal. His advocacy skills are incredible.’

Adam Robb KC

39 Essex Chambers

Juniors

Leading Juniors

Leading juniors are those with significant experience of key cases, strong market recognition from both peers and clients, and are seen as future candidates for silk.

‘Very experienced and has a deep understanding of the legal and technical issues in construction disputes. Has a very persuasive style of advocacy and tribunals like him.’

Rising stars

Rising stars at the Bar are defined as barristers between four and eight years’ call who are seen as up-and-coming members of the Bar in their respective practice areas by clients and peers alike. They will already be instructed in high-profile, complex, and high-value contentious and non-contentious matters, working with and opposite more experienced leading counsel.