With ‘outstanding levels of professionalism’, Guildford law firm Stevens & Bolton LLP acts in commercial, shareholder, corporate and contractual disputes, as well as fraud cases. Much of the litigation group’s work comprises international aspects, including matters where assets are located abroad. Department head Sarah Murray handles a range of commercial disputes in the High Court. Catherine Penny‘s caseload covers contractual, life sciences, franchising and corporate transaction-related disputes. Commercial disputes practitioner James Evison was promoted to partner in April 2024.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Exceptional service and attention to litigation in very complex areas.’

  • ‘Outstanding levels of professionalism provided by the S&B team.’

  • ‘A strong, collegiate team that works efficiently on commercial litigation.’

  • ‘What makes S&B unique is that they operate in partnership with clients - it feels like having an in-house legal team.’

  • ‘Good strength across the associates and partners - uses associates and counsel well. Friendly, open and forward-thinking firm.’

  • ‘Catherine Penny - what makes her stand out is her high level of preparation, commitment and out-of-the box thinking, which is crucial for this area.’

  • ‘Sarah Murray and James Evison are a strong team, and very engaging and forward-thinking.’

  • ‘Lorna Sleave works efficiently, and is personable, motivated and organised.’

Key clients

  • Papa Johns
  • ParentPay (Holdings)
  • Philips Respironics California
  • Samsung Electronics (UK)

Work highlights

  • Acting for a professional services firm in a contractual dispute with an international network.
  • Acting for a private estate in a multi-million-euro civil fraud claim that relates to investments in South America.
  • Acting for a Belgian company (and associated companies) in a £20m claim for fraudulent misrepresentation, breach of warranty and breach of directors’ duties, in relation to a business that was purchased during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Lawyers

Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Sarah Murray

Other key lawyers

Catherine Penny, James Evison, Lorna Sleave