UK and international banks make up a core part of CMS‘ clientele, and the ’efficient and timely’ finance disputes team also represents financial institutions and companies in the financial services sector in a range of disputes, often on a cross-border basis. Tom Dane leads the practice, advising a diverse roster of both domestic and international banks and financial institutions. Kushal Gandhi and Vanessa Whitman spearhead the team’s work in the fintech and crypto space. Gandhi also brings to the group experience in arbitration in finance, while Whitman specialises in contentious insolvency matters. Adam Ferris is another active member of the team.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Kushal Gandhi, Vanessa Whitman and Rachel Harrison are all stand outs. They are responsive, crypto aware and keen to see our industry grow. They are also good at horizon scanning and keeping us informed of potential risks.’
‘Highly motivated, innovative and with a friendly approach to the client and hands-on approach to work. The practice is a well-balanced and diverse environment. The team is efficient and timely delivering advice. The ability to work as a team with the client provides excellent results.’
‘Vanessa Whitman is one of the brightest prospects around - there are no limits to how great she can become.’
‘CMS is a fantastic banking disputes firm. They have an excellent breadth of knowledge, backed by outstanding individuals.’
‘Vanessa Whitman (partner) is a real superstar. She has it all. Her drafting is exceptional. Her judgement as to what is and is not important is spot on. Her interpersonal skills, managing a team through the stressful experience of a complex trial, are second-to-none. I really could not recommend her more highly.’
‘Fantastic team and highly recommended in handling complex cross-border insolvency litigation cases.’
‘Tom Dane and Adam Ferris provided invaluable support throughout our recent insolvency case involving assets in multiple jurisdictions. Their deep understanding of international insolvency law and procedures was crucial in navigating the legal complexities of the situation.’
‘Our primary contact is Tom Dane (Partner), and he is absolutely our favorite. He is exceptionally involved in all details and is always on top of issues. He is very approachable and always considers things from a business-friendly perspective. He’s really fun to work with too. I think what sets Tom apart is that he has excellent client-handling skills, and he is a great strategist who is, at the same time, involved in details of the matter.'
Key clients
- Allied Irish Banks Plc
- Fidelity International
- National Australia Bank
- Ferrari Financial Services GmbH
- Willis Towers Watson
- Access Bank UK
- Coinbase
- Morgan Stanley
- Bunq
- C Hoare & Co
Work highlights
- Acted for Allied Irish Banks Plc in the successful defence of a long-running, reputation-critical, £300m claim, which was dismissed in full following a 6-week Commercial Court trial in the summer of 2023.
Lawyers
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Tom Dane