Combining civil, criminal and regulatory expertise, City of London boutique firm Bivonas Law LLP has ‘unique depth of experience in civil fraud that spans jurisdictions and case matters’. The practice acts for African states, international banks (and bankers) and HNW Russian individuals in disputes involving international asset tracing, and freezing and search orders. John Bechelet is a longstanding specialist in civil fraud and regulatory litigation; Antony Brown manages the firm’s most complex cases; and Roland Ellis defends individuals and companies that face allegations of misconduct. The next line of key practitioners includes Manraj Somal, whose ’involvement in cases is invaluable’.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Bivonas has a targeted and skilled team that stands above its competitors. The team has unique depth of experience in civil fraud that spans jurisdictions and case matters. Excellently resourced.’

  • ‘Provides an all-round excellent service that is enhanced by expertise in both civil fraud and corporate and white-collar crime, offering added value to clients.’

  • ‘Antony Brown is a great leader who has selected a great team to work with him.’

  • ‘Roland Ellis has an excellent understanding of his clients' commercial and strategic objectives, and has a good instinct for how to approach cases.’

  • ‘Roland Ellis is excellent - thoughtful, commercial and very good with clients.’

  • ‘Manraj Somal is very knowledgeable. He is excellent for fraud cases and always goes the extra mile for clients.’

  • ‘Manraj Somal is extremely client friendly, and always prioritises what is best for clients’ individual needs.’

  • ‘Manraj Somal is highly responsive, practical and diligent. His involvement in cases is invaluable - he prepares key documentation and detailed statements quickly and precisely. He also has a personal touch that is of great assistance in relation to client management.’

Work highlights

  • Acting for the CEO of a listed company (in administration), in relation to a substantial claim by the administrators that involves allegations of fraudulent trading, breach of fiduciary duty, dishonest assistance, constructive trust, and knowing receipt.
  • Acting for a Cypriot company in a multi-million-pound restitution claim against an Irish IT company, following cessation of IT services due to export controls and sanctions.
  • Acting for the directors of a Guernsey-protected cell company, in relation to a £12m claim for breach of fiduciary duty.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

John Bechelet

Other key lawyers

Antony Brown, Roland Ellis, Manraj Somal, Oliver Richardson