England - London • Real estate
HFW
HFW’s construction group specialises in infrastructure projects, including distinctive expertise in renewable energy projects, notably offshore wind. The firm’s portfolio extends to international projects in the transport and energy sectors, with a focus on the Middle East and international arbitration. Spearheading the global construction team, Michael Sergeant’s practice primarily revolves around international arbitration, particularly within Middle Eastern countries. Max Wieliczko, leading the London construction department, concentrates on project support and dispute resolution, bringing vast experience in complex international engineering and infrastructure projects, including ports, railways, roads, tunnelling, decommissioning, and diverse energy projects. Richard Booth, noted for his knowledge in drafting construction contracts and dispute resolution, is an expert in infrastructure and offshore wind ventures.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'The HFW team are well versed in large, complex construction disputes. They understand the nuances around delay, quantum and technical matters and provide clients with clear legal and commercial advice.'
- 'As a team, they are very responsive to requests for information and help direct the expert witness team to what's important.'
- 'The team is very equilibrated, works together well and is always available when needed, including for emergencies under short notice. What distinguishes this law firm is its unique understanding of the business needs of the client. More importantly, the team concentrates on providing the solutions instead of evidencing only the risks without giving the way out.'
- 'Michael Sergeant and team are a pleasure to work with. They are continuously available and manage to create a comfortable and positive work environment even when dealing with complicated matters.'
- 'Michael Sergeant has an extraordinary capacity to understand various internal decisions, needs, and changes, and adapts his work immediately to the changed circumstances. He always manages to get to the point in a very short time, and provide the support that is actually required and needed.'
- 'A fabulously closely-knit team. Led dynamically by Max Wieliczko, there is a strong team at all levels. Their knowledge of the industry, law, and the ability to see the big picture is really impressive.'
- 'Richard Booth, without any doubt whatsoever, was a differential key factor for our case.'
- 'Max Wieliczko has unparalleled knowledge of the construction industry. His knowledge of fine detail is incredible, particularly as the partner of a large department. So good at seeing the big picture.'
Key clients
- VolkerWessels Group
- MW High Tech Projects UK Limited
- Northumbrian Water Limited
- Dragados
- JRL Group (Reddington)
- Visser & Smit Hanab B.V.
- Barhale Limited
- Hochtief Solutions AG
- Belectric Gulf Limited
- Robert Bird Group
- Kuwait Oil Company
Work highlights
- Acting for an international joint venture contractor on a £700m ICC arbitration in relation to delays and variations on a high-profile Middle East transport project.
- Acting for a contractor in respect of a £150m+ dispute in relation to the T&I package for a large offshore wind farm development off the shores of France.
- Acting for an EPC contractor in relation to the disputes totalling £400m arising under three separate energy from waste projects in different parts of the UK.
Lawyers
Leading individuals
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Michael Sergeant, Max Wieliczko