Following its merger with legacy US firm Shearman & Sterling in May 2024, A&O Shearman‘s ’formidable’ cross-border practice has gone from strength to strength, continuing to draw on an ever-larger global network to advise on commercial disputes with international elements. It is active in group actions and sports litigation has been another particularly prolific area for the team. Susanna Charlwood‘s broad practice ranges from shareholder and joint venture disputes to disputes arising from M&A, with a particular focus on contentious insolvency proceedings. ’Fantastic litigator’ Alice Englehart is a key contact, leading the team on international sanctions work and disputes with reputational risk. Andrew Denny is experienced in parallel proceedings across multiple jurisdictions, including anti-suit injunctions, while Jonathan Hitchin handles litigation related to acquisitions and disposals, JVs and insolvencies. Maeve Hanna‘s sector expertise spans the energy, transportation, technology and media sectors. Helen Biggin demonstrates particular prowess in the aviation sector, advising on aircraft detention and repossession. Sarah Garvey left the team in October 2023.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘I have worked in particular with Susanna Charlwood, Juliet de Pencier, and Tom Spackman, on a number of large and complex commercial matters. They are outstanding, and together make a formidable team. Every important aspect of the case is thoroughly analysed, and considered, and no stone is left unturned to protect the clients' best interests. They are also a great pleasure to work with.’
‘Susanna Charlwood - a real powerhouse of the field who is always available and with razor sharp intellect. Juliet de Pencier - a complete star in the making who has excellent people skills and will fight hard for your corner. Tom Spackman - one of the cleverest lawyers you will meet, who is a partner in the making and is a standout of his generation.’
Key clients
- Aviation Capital Group
- Etihad Airways PJSC