Headed up by Lusanda Raphulu, the dispute resolution practice at Bowmans ‘is in a class of its own’ for some. The team stands out for being ‘particularly strong in complex commercial, company law and shareholder disputes, and is exceptional at providing strategic advice’. Jonathan Sahli and Lyndal Anderson co-head the litigation department, which continues to handle a high volume for contentious work for mining, financial services, insurance and food and beverage sector clients. Tim Gordon-Grant has an excellent track record in handling international arbitrations and audits-related litigation; Adam Anderson‘s expertise includes banking, construction, corporate and insurance disputes; and James McKinnell is ’a seasoned litigator with good commercial acumen‘. Jonathan Barnes has established experience in class action litigation.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'The work is of exceptional quality. Transparency and strong expertise is a unique feature of the team and their availability at all times makes them a valued and trusted partner.'
‘Jonathan Barnes is an exceptionally-trained and experienced lawyer with robust experience in dispute resolution.'
‘Spot on class actions advice.’
‘Their service, specifically their responsiveness, is a distinguishing characteristic. Work product is also extremely high quality.'
‘Jonathan Barnes was a star and met all of our needs. Extremely easy to work with and it was clear he had all of the answers. Very practical.'
‘The team's expertise covers a wide range of disputes. Their knowledge of the different markets within which clients operate is unparalleled.'
‘James McKinnell has a strong knowledge of the law. He has the ability to identify creative solutions to problems and to persevere through long running disputes. He is resilient, persuasive and has strong problem solving and negotiation skills. He is also likeable and courteous.'
‘The people at Bowmans are very friendly and easy going. You don't feel uncomfortable or intimidated when discussing your situation and they are always willing to give good guidance.'
Key clients
- Public Investment Corporation SOC Limited (PIC)
- African Rainbow Minerals Limited and Patrice Motsepe
- Delta Beverages (Private) Limited, Schweppes Zimbabwe Limited and Delta Corporation Limited
- KPMG Incorporated
- Old Mutual Alternative Investments (OMAI)
- Coronation Fund Managers Limited
- Old Mutual Limited
- Public Investment Corporation SOC Limited // KPMG Incorporated
- The South African National Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC), the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) and the Robben Island Museum (RIM)
- Royal Bafokeng Platinum
Work highlights
- Acting for the Public Investment Corporation SOC Limited in litigation, mediation and settlement negotiations concerning its multi-billion Rand dispute arising from the Steinhoff collapse.
- Defending African Rainbow Minerals Limited and Patrice Motsepe against a US$195 million claim for alleged breach of contract.
- Assisting KPMG with an ongoing damages claim for approximately ZAR860 million, brought against the client by VBS Mutual Bank (in liquidation), arising out of KPMG’s alleged breach of its services contract with VBS.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Jonathan Barnes
BowmansPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Lusanda Raphulu, Jonathan Sahli, Lyndal Anderson