Squire Patton Boggs has ‘a tight unit of excellent practitioners’ led by ‘seasoned litigator and battle-hardened fighter’ Chris Swart in London and two partners in Singapore. London is a key hub in the international network of offices handling commodities disputes, and the firm also continues to build its teams in Hong Kong, Milan and elsewhere. The firm, which only launched its London commodities group in 2019, has established a strong multi-disciplinary team that covers all aspects of international commodities and trade, including in-depth knowledge of specific commodity sectors, notably oil, LNG, agriculture, minerals, metals and mining, and other energy markets, both in terms of physical trading and financial hedging. Among its standout practitioners are Katie Pritchard, who frequently acts for commodity producers, trading companies, vessel charterers and owners, banks and insurers; John Rollason, who continues to build his global reputation in the grain industry; and international arbitration and commercial litigation-focused Michael Davar.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The SPB outfit is a tight unit of excellent practitioners. They work particularly well as a team together, with a real strength in appropriate task management and delegation to ensure the best person for the best job. They are fierce in their determination to do their very best for the client.’
‘Chris Swart is a seasoned litigator and battle-hardened fighter with great strategic and commercial savvy. Katie Pritchard is indefatigable in her search for the right evidence or the key document, Katie is 100% on the client's side. Lucy Webster is a modern, super diligent, absolutely committed litigation partner. Ruggero Chicco is exceptionally reliable and hard-working. Ruggero can always be counted on to deliver a top product. Gabriella Martin is an optimist and a fighter: she is determined to find a solution even in the most difficult of cases - and will not take no for an answer.’
‘Squire Patton Boggs distinguishes itself through its collaborative team approach, diverse expertise, and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. Their innovative strategies, backed by a track record of success, showcase their ability to navigate complex challenges effectively. Potential clients can trust their in-depth industry knowledge, proactive problem-solving, and dedication to delivering exceptional results. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, they consistently surpass client expectations and set a benchmark for excellence in dispute representation.’
‘The team at Squire Patton Boggs distinguishes itself through its dedication, expertise, and client-centered approach. Michael Davar, known for his meticulous attention to detail, embodies the team’s commitment to excellence. Each member, from partners to associates, contributes unique strengths, fostering a collaborative environment that consistently exceeds client expectations and differentiates the firm from its competitors.’
‘Michael Davar is excellent in his field.’
'Squire Patton Boggs provides the highest quality legal service with a reasonable and fair price. The service is very business oriented.'
'Working with the Squire Patton Boggs team has been an excellent experience during which their professionalism has made matters much smoother!'
Key clients
- ADM
- Hannam & Partners
- Naftogaz
- Condire Management LLC
- Metals Exploration plc
- Canaccord Genuity Limited
- Berenberg
- Bluejay Mining plc
- WH Ireland Limited
- Panmure Gordon (UK) Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for ADM in the enforcement of a USD 5 million GAFTA arbitration award against a Moroccan grain trading company, Grain House International SA.
- Acting for Hannam & Partners, a leading metals and mining specialist investment bank, in a USD 18 million English High Court action arising out of its work for Randgold Resources Ltd. in facilitating the USD 18bn merger between Randgold and Barrick Gold Corp to create the world’s largest gold mining company.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Chris Swart