Described as a ‘very strong regional firm’, DMH Stallard LLP has an established disputes practice across the South East, operating from offices in Gatwick, Guildford and Brighton. The firm has broad experience across commercial and banking litigation, acting in breach of contract, breach of duty and professional negligence claims, as well as director, shareholder and partnership disputes. Sector strengths include aviation, automotive, education and real estate. The practice is led by Simon Elcock, based in Gatwick. Other key names to note include Guildford-based Jonathan Compton, and James Colvin, also in Gatwick, who focuses on financial litigation and contentious insolvency. Nicola Billen, in Guildford, has broad commercial disputes experience including general contractual litigation and shareholder disputes.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘The Commercial litigation team at DMH are very experienced and are used to working with a full spectrum of clients which enables them to adapt their approaches accordingly. They are commercial in their approach to litigation, and this is particularly relevant when preparing and instructing Counsel.’

  • ‘The whole team (partners and associates) are programmed to deliver the best possible outcome for the client. Their attention to detail is reflective of what is normally expected from large city law firms and is the reason why I would often recommend them to lay clients. Stand out individuals there are Simon Elcock, James Colvin.’

  • ‘A very strong regional firm. I have exclusively encountered DMH Stallard when litigating in the High Court against other 'bigger names'. I thought that DMH outshone them by providing more grounded, credible representation.'

  • ‘Great impartial advice. Friendly team.’

  • ‘The team are extremely efficient, with excellent back up from non-solicitor staff. They take a very practical approach to getting the best result for the clients and in keeping them informed of all developments in their cases and on the potential outcomes. Amongst all the firms I deal with, DMH Stallard would be one of the first I would recommend to potential clients.’

  • ‘I deal most frequently with Jonathan Compton. He is perhaps the most practical solicitor that instructs me and always takes a sensible and realistic approach to litigation. Clients highly respect his professional abilities and like him too. Indeed, in terms of client management he is second to none.'

  • ‘They always punch above their weight, providing great advice, wraparound support and innovative approaches.’

Key clients

  • A J Walter Aviation Limited
  • BDO LLP
  • CAE (UK) Plc
  • National Westminster Bank Plc
  • Ocean Holidays Limited
  • Ulster Bank Ireland DAC

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.

Simon Elcock

Other key lawyers

James Colvin, Jonathan Compton, Nicola Billen, Frank Bouette