"He is very, very clever. I am in awe of him. He is always three or four moves ahead of the opponent and he always gets it right."
Chambers UK 2021
Hugh is recognised as a star of the UK Bar, with rankings in Chambers UK as a leading barrister across 7 practice areas: Commercial, Professional Negligence, Insolvency, Banking & Finance, Partnership, Chancery and Company.
He is instructed with juniors, and as sole leading counsel, in complex and substantial disputes where his advocacy and forensic skills are highly valued.
Hugh welcomes instructions across the whole spectrum of commercial disputes, including in the following areas:
· Contract
· Civil fraud
· Sale and supply of goods
· Corporate disputes
· Partnership disputes
· Banking & finance
· Professional negligence & indemnity
· Insurance
· Restraint of trade
· Business protection disputes
· Breach of confidence
· Passing off
Hugh has wide ranging sector knowledge, including experience in the following sectors: accountancy, agriculture, banking, care homes, construction, charities, energy, including electricity generation and power distribution, renewables, insurance, financial services, hotel, hospitality & leisure, marine, pharmaceuticals, software, technology and sports.
WHAT OTHERS SAY
A formidable barrister who handles all manner of contentious commercial issues…"He's very user-friendly and has great legal knowledge spanning a wide range of areas. He's a go-to silk for large and more complex disputes." "One of his real strengths is that he's extremely approachable and always available; even when he's busy he makes time for you and remains contactable and visible." (Chambers UK 2020)
"He's a standout barrister who has a very good style with clients - he's easy to work with, pragmatic and practical." "He's very approachable, engaging and responsive, as well as being great with clients." "He is extremely bright and user-friendly." (Chambers UK 2019)
"He's always a great pleasure to work with. Probably the best commercial barrister in the South West; he seems to be universally approved of in the region." "He combines a very sharp intellect with tremendous approachability, and he gives advice grounded in common sense." (Chambers UK 2018)
"An absolutely brilliant advocate with an exceptional brain; he lives for the court." "By far the best option in Bristol for commercial litigation work." "He's exceptionally bright and he picks things up very quickly; he's good at focusing on the overall picture and seeing how it all hangs together." "A highly accomplished advocate who wins the trust of the judges, is easy to work with, massively commercial, creative with solutions and highly practical - he finds winning solutions to very difficult situations." (Chambers UK 2017)
"He is clever, incisive and possesses a canny ability to provide lucid, practical and easily digestible advice for solicitors and clients alike." "He very quickly gets up to speed and provides clear and concise commercial guidelines in respect of his client's legal predicament." (Chambers UK 2016)
"He is a very able advocate, is immensely practical and commercial, and has courage in his convictions" (Chambers UK 2015)
"He is extremely sharp, willing to consider innovative arguments and willing to place his neck on the line when giving advice." (Chambers UK 2014)
"is a versatile barrister with many strings to his bow. Possessed of a broad span of knowledge in the commercial sphere, he is a "dynamic performer"... Hailed as a "can-do operator" who "sees solutions, not problems," Sims' work on his feet wins just as much praise as his "exceptional written advice." "He's the best cross-examiner for us and probably the first we'd go to," said one interviewee." (Chambers UK 2013)
RECENT & NOTABLE CASES
· NHS High Weald Lewes Havens CCG v SinoCare Group Limited (Circuit Commercial Court, Bristol) (HHJ Russen QC) – dispute relating to enforceability of parent company guarantee in name of company registered in Hong Kong. Hugh is leading Sam Parsons.
· MDW Holdings Ltd v Norvill & Norvill & Norvill (ChD, Cardiff) – claim by purchaser of waste company in South Wales in relation to alleged breach of warranties and/or misprepresentation claim relating to a share purchase agreement (SPA). Raises issues relating to waste disposal regulations, hazardous waste, contractual limitation periods and alleged manipulation of test result data. Hugh is leading Jay Jagasia. Listed for trial January 2021.
· Hancock v Promontoria (Chestnut) Ltd [2020] EWCA Civ 907, [2020] 4 WLR 100 (Floyd LJ, Henderson LJ and Flaux LJ) – where a court is asked to construe a document, the whole of the document, without redactions, should ordinarily be placed before the court, though the position may be different in the context of a statutory demand by an assignee of a loan. Hugh led Graham Sellers (Atlantic Chambers, Liverpool) in the Court of Appeal.
· Promontoria (Oak) Ltd v Emanuel & Emanuel [2020] EWHC 104 (Ch) & [2020] EWHC 563 (Ch) (Marcus Smith J) – appeal against decision of recorder successful, as claimant assignee’s money judgment failed as it relied on secondary evidence in the form of redacted deed of assignment in circumstances where unredacted deed could and should have been produced, but claim as registered legal proprietor succeeded. Hugh led Oliver Mitchell on the appeal.
· Badyal v Badyal & Badyal (Business & Property Courts, Business List) (Adrian Beltrami QC sitting as a Deputy High Court Judge) (January 2020) – whether or not relief from sanctions should be granted in relation to accounts and inquiries concerning businesses in UK and in India. Hugh led Richard Ascroft.
· Fairford Water Ski Club Ltd v Cohoon & Others [2020] EWHC 290 (Comm) (Bristol) (HHJ Russen QC) – claim relating to various and multiple alleged breaches of duties by directors of company, including diversion of opportunities, alleged misappropriations and the issue of the extent to which there had been a sufficient disclosure of interest. Hugh led Katie Gibb at trial in 2019. Appeal listed for 2021.
· Oliver Morley (t/a Morley Estates) v Royal Bank of Scotland Plc [2020] EWHC 88 (Ch) (Kerr J) – whether conduct of bank amounted to threat and economic duress and intimation, whether bank in breach of its duties of reasonable skill and care, in relation to transfer of industrial property portfolio to subsidiary (West Register) whilst in bank’s restructuring unit (GRG). Hugh led John Virgo. Appeal listed for 2021.
· Frank Warren v Nathan Cleverly (Circuit Commercial Court, Cardiff) - Hugh was instructed to represent Nathan Cleverley, former world champion at light-heavyweight and cruiserweight, to assist him in defending a £1m plus claim brought by Frank Warren, who claimed damages for alleged breach of a boxing promotion agreement. The claim was discontinued by Frank Warren shortly before trial, in 2019.
· Re Altala – professional negligence proceedings brought against former administrators in relation to loss of chance in relation to claim against insured defendant directors, relating to failure of health lottery company. Case settled in 2019. Hugh led Holly Doyle in this and earlier professional negligence proceedings against the company’s former solicitors.
· Adam Anderson & Ors v Sense Network Ltd [2019] EWCA Civ 1395, [2020] 1 BCLC 555 (David Richards LJ, Hamblen LJ, Snowden J) – whether network, as principal, was liable for losses suffered by individuals who had invested in fraudulent Ponzi scheme operated by one of its appointed representatives, concerning the proper interpretation of section 39 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, vicarious liability and collective investment schemes. Hugh led Gerard McMeel and Jay Jagasia in the Court of Appeal. Claimants pursued successful claims against the FSCS based on the finding of the unauthorised CIS at first instance as upheld by the Court of Appeal.
· Norham Holdings Group Ltd v Lloyds Bank Plc [2019] EWHC 3744 (Ch) (Newcastle (HHJ Kramer QC) – the proper construction of basic redress settlement following claim of mis-sale of interest rate hedging swap. Hugh led Jay Jagasia. Case subsequently settled following mediation (2020).
· Merthyr (South Wales) Ltd v Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council [2019] EWCA Civ 526 (Longmore LJ, David Richards LJ and Leggatt LJ) – whether pre-contractual negotiations may be admissible as aid to interpretation of contract. Hugh led Oliver Mitchell in the Court of Appeal.
· Absolute Living Developments Limited (In Liquidation) v DS7 Limited and Others [2018] EWHC 1432 (Ch), [2018] All ER (D) 104 (Jun) –whether application for security for costs should be refused on grounds that the claim would have been stifled. Hugh led Simon Passfield.
· Premier Motorauctions Ltd (in liquidation) v PricewaterhouseCoopers and Lloyds Bank [2017] EWCA Civ 1872, [2018] 1 WLR 2955 - Whether the ATE insurance obtained by the claimant companies (both in liquidation) was sufficient to resist the applications by the Defendants for security for costs. Hugh Sims QC led Jay Jagasia.
· David v Crossman & Morgan & Infinite Renewables Ltd (ChD, Cardiff)(HHJ Jarman QC) - trial of liability in unfair prejudice shareholder dispute concerning shareholders in a renewable electricity generation company in South Wales (ChD, Cardiff).
· Burrows Investments Ltd v Ward Homes Ltd [2017] EWCA Civ 1577, [2018] 1 P&CR 13 (Ruper Jackson LJ, Henderson LJ) – proper construction of sale agreement in relation to residential development, negotiating damages. Hugh acted as sole leading counsel in the Court of Appeal. Case subsequently settled before retrial of quantum issues in 2019.
· Hammond & others v JL Strategies Ltd & UBS AG London Branch (Commercial Court, London) - multi-million claim brought in the Commercial Court in London, alleging negligent mis-selling of film finance schemes by financial advisors and that UBS participated in an unlawful joint enterprise in relation to the promotion and sale of the same. Hugh led Gerard McMeel. Case subsequently settled in 2018.
· Stevensdrake Ltd v Stephen Hunt [2017] EWCA Civ 1173, [2017 BCC 611 (Briggs LJ, Hamblen LJ) – court of appeal upheld decision of court below that claimant estopped by convention from enforcing CFA due to recoveries only understanding between parties. Hugh led Simon Passfield in the Court of Appeal and also in the court below, reported under neutral citation [2016] EWHC 1111 (Ch) and [2016] EWHC 342 (Ch).
· Lowick Rose LLP v Swynson [2017] UKSC 32, [2017] 2 WLR 1161 (Lord Neuberger PSC, Lord Mance JSC, Lord Clarke JSC, Lord Sumption JSC, Lord Hodge JSC) – Loan provided based on accountant’s negligence advice in relation to financial due diligence. Where loan partially repaid by ultimate owner of lender company, repayment was not to be ignored and lender not entitled to recover full loss. Principles of unjust enrichment and transferred loss did not apply. Hugh led Gerard McMeel and James Wibberley in the Supreme Court.
· Lowick Rose LLP v Swynson [2015] EWCA Civ 629 (Longmore, Davis and Sales LLJ) - Hugh, leading James Wibberley, represented the respondent in the Court of Appeal, successfully resisting an appeal from the decision of Rose J, who found that a partial re-financing exercise was a collateral benefit (or res inter alios acta) and not to be deducted from the damages award made at first instance.
· Gartell v Yeovil Town Football & Athletic Club Limited [2016] EWCA Civ 62 (Laws, Floyd and Bean LLJ) - appeal concerning non-performance of construction works carried out at Yeovil Town's football stadium, Huish Park, and the correct approach to quantification of damages. Hugh led Steven Ball (Magdalen Chambers, Exeter) in the Court of Appeal.
· Iglu.com Ltd v Wests (QBD (Merc)) (Bristol) (HHJ Havelock-Allan QC) - substantial share warranty dispute claim in proceedings issued in the Bristol Mercantile Court, subsequently settled (2014-2015).
· Education Umbrella v Bertram Trading (QBD (Merc)) (Bristol) (HHJ Havelock-Allan QC) - urgent business critical injunction proceedings (October 2014) to preserve the dynamic status quo in a business relationship pending a speedy trial.
· Swynson v Lowick Rose LLP (formerly Hurst Morrison Thomson) [2014] EWHC 2085; [2014] PNLR 27 (Ch) Rose J - Hugh, leading Nicholas Briggs also of Guildhall Chambers, successfully represented the claimant up to and including trial in a £15 million professional negligence claim brought by lender against firm of accountants in relation to due diligence report concerning a purchase of a US medical homecare company (March - June 2014) (reported on bailli: http://www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWHC/Ch/2014/2085.html).
· PHS v Initial (Rentokil) [2014] EWCA Civ 29 (Rimer LJ, Lewison LJ, Briggs LJ) - Hugh led Douglas Leach in the Court of Appeal, successfully responding to an appeal concerning the duties of confidence in commercial agency relationships (November 2013) (reported on bailli: http://www.bailii.org/cgi-bin/markup.cgi?doc=/ew/cases/EWCA/Civ/2014/29.html).
· McCarthy v Ludlow Orbis (Ch D) (Cardiff) (HHJ Jarman QC) - Hugh acted on behalf of joint venture partner in pre-action proceedings (ChD (Cardiff)) relating to alleged breaches of shareholder agreement. Case subsequently settled following mediation (March 2014).
· John Grimes Partnership Ltd v Walter Gubbins [2013] EWCA Civ 37 - Hugh acted for the successful counterclaimant up to, and at, a 7 day trial of a factually and technically difficult professional negligence claim against an engineer, involving an unusual market fall loss claim (Exeter TCC). The Court of Appeal, where he was led by Adrian Palmer QC, dismissed the appeal.
· Airbus v Withey & Others [2014] EWHC 1126 (QB) (QBD (Merc)) (Bristol) (HHJ Havelock-Allan QC) - Hugh represented 2 of 6 defendants up to, and at, a 22 day trial of a £1.1m bribery claim (February 2013). Hugh helped the defendants defeat the bribery allegations in a Judgment handed down in April 2014 and the secret commission claim was settled on satisfactory terms following permission to apeal being granted.
“A leading figure for advising claimants on professional negligence matters against solicitors, surveyors, accountants and construction companies. He receives instructions on matters both locally and nationally.” (Chambers UK 2020)
Hugh represents claimants and defendants in complex and substantial professional negligence & indemnity disputes in England & Wales. He enjoys working as a team, with clients, solicitors and junior barristers.
Hugh welcomes instructions in bringing and defending claims against the following professionals:
· Accountants, including insolvency practitioners and auditors
· Solicitors
· Surveyors
· Engineers
· Financial advisors
· Barristers and Patent agents
WHAT OTHERS SAY
"He is hugely talented, very intelligent and a really nice person to work with. He's easy to talk to and reassuring with clients. He's also very down to earth and measured, and is very good on his feet." (Chambers UK 2020)
"He's our first-choice silk in Bristol for professional negligence or general commercial litigation." "He is phenomenally bright and very good at what he does, but is also extremely approachable." "Hugh is exceptionally bright, a skilled advocate and great on strategy." (Chambers UK 2019)
"He is always available and very good at anticipating what the other side might do and that's very helpful." "He's bright, meticulous, hard working and thoroughly excellent." "As an advocate, he is excellent. Easy to deal with, client-friendly and very good at working in a team." (Chambers UK 2018)
"Exceptionally bright and user-friendly across a broad range of practice areas." "He's very good on the detail and very quick at coming to conclusions. He really does inspire confidence and talks at a level clients understand." (Chambers UK 2017)
"He is the go-to guy for lender claims." "He's not just a bright cookie, he's also very personable and likeable." "He is prepared to listen to the clients and their views and instructions." (Chambers UK 2016)
"He makes fairly complex seem very easy and effortless. He's good on paper and good on his feet" (Chambers UK 2015)
"He is extremely accomplished, very client and solicitor-friendly, and a most effective advocate." "He's very relaxed; he's got a calming impact on people. He doesn't get flustered with clients and doesn't go overly legal on them (Chambers UK 2014)
RECENT & NOTABLE CASES
· Cheltenham Borough Council v Bevan Brittan LLP (Business & Property Courts in Bristol) (2020) - multi-million solicitors’ negligence claim relating to development site in Cheltenham.
· Re Altala – multi-million professional negligence proceedings brought against former administrators in relation to loss of chance in relation to claim against insured defendant directors, relating to failure of health lottery company. Case settled in 2019. Hugh led Holly Doyle in this and earlier professional negligence proceedings against the company’s former solicitors (see further below).
· Devon Commercial Property Ltd v (1) Barnett & (2) Belcher [2019] EWHC 700 (Ch) (HHJ Matthews) – whether receivers negligent and/or in breach of their duties of good faith in relation to the sale of a cider and bottling plant by receivers. Hugh led Neil Levy at trial.
· Hammond & others v JL Strategies Ltd & UBS AG London Branch (Commercial Court, London) - multi-million claim brought in the Commercial Court in London, alleging negligent mis-selling of film finance schemes by financial advisors and that UBS participated in an unlawful joint enterprise in relation to the promotion and sale of the same. Hugh led Gerard McMeel. Case subsequently settled in 2018.
· Premier Motorauctions Ltd (in liquidation) v PricewaterhouseCoopers and Lloyds Bank [2017] EWCA Civ 1872, [2018] 1 WLR 2955 - whether the ATE insurance obtained by the claimant companies (both in liquidation) was sufficient to resist the applications by the Defendants for security for costs. Hugh Sims QC led Jay Jagasia in Court of Appeal and at first instance [2016] EWHC 2610 (Ch), [2017] 4 All ER 243 (Snowden J) in relation to the security for costs issue, and also in the wider proceedings relating to car auction business companies in liquidation, involving allegations that PwC negligently advised the companies and was in breach of fiduciary duties in relation to accountancy advice and independent business review work carried out by it. This case featured as one of The Lawyer’s Top 20 cases of 2018.
· Lowick Rose LLP v Swynson [2017] UKSC 32, [2017] 2 WLR 1161 (Lord Neuberger PSC, Lord Mance JSC, Lord Clarke JSC, Lord Sumption JSC, Lord Hodge JSC) – Loan provided based on accountant’s negligence advice in relation to financial due diligence. Where loan partially repaid by ultimate owner of lender company, repayment was not to be ignored and lender not entitled to recover full loss. Principles of unjust enrichment and transferred loss did not apply. Hugh led Gerard McMeel and James Wibberley in the Supreme Court.
· Gaze v Harcus Sinclair & counsel (2016-2017), Bristol Mercantile Court (HHJ Russen QC) - Acting for claimant (and counterclaimant) in complex multi-million professional negligence claim against former solicitors and counsel concerning the negligent handling of a previous professional negligence claim. Leading Holly Doyle. Case settled shortly before start of trial, in 2017.
· Lowick Rose LLP v Swynson [2015] EWCA Civ 629 (Longmore, Davis and Sales LLJ) - Hugh, leading James Wibberley also of Guildhall Chambers, represented the respondent in the Court of Appeal, successfully resisting an appeal from the decision of Rose J, who found that a partial re-financing exercise was a collateral benefit (or res inter alios acta) and not to be deducted from the damages award made at first instance. The appellant has been granted permission to appeal to the Supreme Court, who are due to hear the appeal in November 2016.
· Re Altala - Hugh, leading Holly Doyle, advised in relation to multi-million professional negligence claims against former solicitors arising from the failure of the company formed to set up a multiple health lottery scheme nationwide. Case settled in 2018.
· Swynson v Lowick Rose LLP (formerly Hurst Morrison Thomson) [2014] EWHC 2085 (Ch) ); [2014] PNLR 27 Rose J - Hugh, leading Nicholas Briggs also of Guildhall Chambers, successfully represented the claimant up to and including trial in a £15 million professional negligence claim brought by lender against firm of accountants in relation to due diligence report concerning a purchase of a US medical homecare company (March -June 2014). Appeal and cross appeal concerning matters as to quantum (and the application of the res inter alios acta principle), liability caps and non-party costs pending in the Court of Appeal. (reported on bailli:http://www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWHC/Ch/2014/2085.html)
· Platform Funding Ltd v Simon & Co (QBD (Merc)) (Bristol) (HHJ Havelock-Allan QC) - Hugh acted for the successful claimant bank up to and at trial of professional negligence claim against solicitors in relation to identify theft; guidance as to identity checks required to be carried out by conveyancing solicitors (November 2013).
· Mortgage Agency Services v Merchant Legal LLP (QBD (Merc)) (Bristol) (Leslie Blohm QC) - Hugh acted for successful claimant bank up to and at trial of negligence & breach of fiduciary duty claim against solicitors in relation to mortgage fraud (sub-sale and back to back transactions) (August 2013).
· Akerman v Chapman Molony (ChD (RCJ) (London) - Hugh acted in proceedings relating to alleged professional negligence against patent attorney; proceedings settled (April 2013).
· JGP Ltd v Gubbins - Hugh acted for the successful defendant/counterclaimant up to, and at, a 7 day trial of a factually and technically difficult professional negligence claim against an engineer, involving an unusual market fall loss claim. The Court of Appeal, where he was led by Adrian Palmer QC, dismissed the appeal. Reported as John Grimes Partnership Ltd v Walter Gubbins [2013] EWCA Civ 37 (February 2013).
· Mortgage Title Resolutions Services Ltd v J E Shepherd Chartered Surveyors (QBD (Merc)) (Bristol) (HHJ Denyer QC) - Hugh acted on behalf of a claimant bank in a claim brought against a firm of surveyors concerning alleged professional negligence in residential mortgage lending (January 2013).
“Has a highly respected commercial practice that includes deep expertise in an array of areas... His work in the area of banking and finance includes acting both for and against banks and other financial institutions.” (Chambers UK 2020)
Hugh acts in complex, high-value banking and financial disputes. He enjoys working as a team, with clients, solicitors and junior barristers.
Hugh welcomes instructions in the following areas:
· All aspects of asset recovery for and against banks, finance houses and individuals, financial services regulatory field & consumer credit
· Mortgage fraud
· Personal and corporate guarantee claims
· Professional negligence and economic tort claims by and against banks and financial advisors
· Payment and mistaken payment disputes
· Swaps and derivatives and disputes relating to foreign exchange fraud
· Pensions mis-selling
· Corporate and partnership disputes arising from and relating to financial services industry
WHAT OTHERS SAY
"He's thorough, commercial and very determined." (Chambers UK 2020)
"Clients love him. He's really personable and has a great legal mind. He pre-empts his opponent's moves and thinks three or four steps in advance. He's great strategically and tactically but he's also very approachable and responsive." "He is phenomenally bright and very good at what he does. He fits in well as part of the team and has an interpersonal touch that not all barristers do." (Chambers UK 2019)
"He is excellent with clients and very able to deal with complex, document-heavy matters with speed and authority." "He remains a go-to choice for complex general commercial claims and shareholder disputes, and is one of the leading commercial silks operating outside of London. He has a fierce intellect and is very client friendly, he is always making himself available." (Chambers UK 2018)
"He is extremely clever and very quick. He considers all matters in great detail and is really thoughtful. A pleasure to work with." "He is very commercial, very good with clients and has a style of presentation that judges like very much." (Chambers UK 2017)
"He's really an excellent advocate." (Chambers UK 2016)
"He makes fairly complex cases seem very easy, very effortless". "One of the most talented barristers at the Bristol Bar". (Chambers UK 2015)
"A real solid performer on paper and in court." (Chambers UK 2014)
"...a solid reputation for complex, high-value claims in the banking area" (Chambers UK 2013)
Hugh "is also heavily involved in banking and finance disputes as an addendum to his formidable commercial litigation practice. Solicitors favour him as an accessible and user-friendly practitioner who "will always get to the root of complex issues." (Chambers UK 2012)
RECENT & NOTABLE CASES
· Hancock v Promontoria (Chestnut) Ltd [2020] EWCA Civ 907, [2020] 4 WLR 100 (Floyd LJ, Henderson LJ and Flaux LJ) – where a court is asked to construe a document, the whole of the document, without redactions, should ordinarily be placed before the court, though the position may be different in the context of a statutory demand by an assignee of a loan. Hugh led Graham Sellers (Atlantic Chambers, Liverpool) in the Court of Appeal.
· Promontoria (Oak) Ltd v Emanuel & Emanuel [2020] EWHC 104 (Ch) & [2020] EWHC 563 (Ch) (Marcus Smith J) – appeal against decision of recorder successful, as claimant assignee’s money judgment failed as it relied on secondary evidence in the form of redacted deed of assignment in relation to loan in circumstances where unredacted deed could and should have been produced, but claim as registered legal proprietor succeeded. Hugh led Oliver Mitchell on the appeal.
· Oliver Morley (t/a Morley Estates) v Royal Bank of Scotland Plc [2020] EWHC 88 (Ch) (Kerr J) – whether conduct of bank amounted to threat and economic duress and intimation, whether bank in breach of its duties of reasonable skill and care, in relation to transfer of industrial property portfolio to subsidiary (West Register) whilst in bank’s restructuring unit (GRG). Hugh led John Virgo. Appeal listed for 2021.
· Adam Anderson & Ors v Sense Network Ltd [2019] EWCA Civ 1395, [2020] 1 BCLC 555 (David Richards LJ, Hamblen LJ, Snowden J) – whether network, as principal, was liable for losses suffered by individuals who had invested in fraudulent Ponzi scheme operated by one of its appointed representatives, concerning the proper interpretation of section 39 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, vicarious liability and collective investment schemes. Hugh led Gerard McMeel and Jay Jagasia in the Court of Appeal. Claimants pursued successful claims against the FSCS based on the finding of the unauthorised CIS at first instance as upheld by the Court of Appeal.
· Norham Holdings Group Ltd v Lloyds Bank Plc [2019] EWHC 3744 (Ch) (Newcastle (HHJ Kramer QC) – the proper construction of basic redress settlement following claim of mis-sale of interest rate hedging swap. Hugh led Jay Jagasia. Case subsequently settled following mediation (2020).
· Premier Motorauctions Ltd (in liquidation) v PricewaterhouseCoopers and Lloyds Bank [2017] EWCA Civ 1872, [2018] 1 WLR 2955 - whether the ATE insurance obtained by the claimant companies (both in liquidation) was sufficient to resist the applications by the Defendants for security for costs. Hugh Sims QC led Jay Jagasia in Court of Appeal and at first instance [2016] EWHC 2610 (Ch), [2017] 4 All ER 243 (Snowden J) in relation to the security for costs issue, and also in the wider proceedings relating to car auction business companies in liquidation, involving allegations that PwC negligently advised the companies and was in breach of fiduciary duties in relation to accountancy advice and independent business review work carried out by it, and that Lloyds Bank was implicated in an unlawful means conspiracy. This case featured as one of The Lawyer’s Top 20 cases of 2018.
· Hammond & others v JL Strategies Ltd & UBS AG London Branch (Commercial Court, London) - multi-million claim brought in the Commercial Court in London, alleging negligent mis-selling of film finance schemes by financial advisors and that UBS participated in an unlawful joint enterprise in relation to the promotion and sale of the same. Hugh led Gerard McMeel. Case subsequently settled in 2018.
· Lowick Rose LLP v Swynson [2017] UKSC 32, [2017] 2 WLR 1161 (Lord Neuberger PSC, Lord Mance JSC, Lord Clarke JSC, Lord Sumption JSC, Lord Hodge JSC) – Loan provided based on accountant’s negligence advice in relation to financial due diligence. Where loan partially repaid by ultimate owner of lender company, repayment was not to be ignored and lender not entitled to recover full loss. Principles of unjust enrichment and transferred loss did not apply. Hugh led Gerard McMeel and James Wibberley in the Supreme Court.
· Lowick Rose LLP v Swynson [2015] EWCA Civ 629 (Longmore, Davis and Sales LLJ) - Hugh, leading James Wibberley also of Guildhall Chambers, represented the respondent (lender) in the Court of Appeal, successfully resisting an appeal from the decision of Rose J, who found that a partial re-financing exercise was a collateral benefit (or res inter alios acta) and not to be deducted from the damages award made at first instance.
· Barclays Bank plc v Boll (ChD) (Bristol) - Hugh is acting for Barclays in relation to proceedings concerning allegations of breach of mandate and sale at undervalue (November 2014).
· Platform Funding Ltd v Simon & Co (QBD (Merc)) (Bristol) (HHJ Havelock-Allan QC) - Hugh acted for the successful claimant lender at trial of professional negligence claim against solicitors in relation to identify theft; guidance as to identity checks required to be carried out by conveyancing solicitors (November 2013).
· Mortgage Agency Services v Merchant Legal LLP (QBD (Merc)) (Bristol) (Leslie Blohm QC) - Hugh acted for successful claimant lender at trial of negligence & breach of fiduciary duty claim against solicitors in relation to mortgage fraud (sub-sale and back to back transactions) (August 2013).
· Swynson v Lowick Rose LLP (formerly Hurst Morrison Thomson) [2014] EWHC 2085 (Ch); [2014] PNLR 27 Rose J - Hugh, leading Nicholas Briggs also of Guildhall Chambers, successfully represented the claimant up to and including trial in a £15 million professional negligence claim brought by lender against firm of accountants in relation to due diligence report concerning a purchase of a US medical homecare company (March -June 2014). Appeal and cross appeal concerning matters as to quantum (and the application of the res inter alios acta principle), liability caps and non-party costs pending in the Court of Appeal (reported on bailli: http://www.bailii.org/ew/cases/EWHC/Ch/2014/2085.html).
· Mortgage Title Resolutions Services Ltd v J E Shepherd Chartered Surveyors (QBD (Merc)) (Bristol) (HHJ Denyer QC) - Hugh acted on behalf of a claimant bank in a claim brought against a firm of surveyors concerning alleged professional negligence in residential mortgage lending (January 2013).
“Highly regarded commercial and insolvency silk with significant expertise in company disputes. He has extensive experience in unfair prejudice disputes, derivative claims and breach of fiduciary cases, acting both for and against directors.” (Chambers UK 2020, Company)
“An exceptionally versatile commercial silk, praised for his advocacy, advice and client-handling skills across an impressive range of practice areas. In the partnership sphere, he regularly handles high-stakes issues with a strong commercial flavour, including those concerning real property or family partnerships, or quasi-partnership structures. He advises extensively on matters affecting solicitors' firms and is commended for his handling of matters where relationships have irretrievably broken down.” (Chambers UK 2020, Partnership)
Hugh acts in complex and high value company, joint venture and partnership disputes in England & Wales. He enjoys working as a team, with clients, solicitors and junior barristers.
Hugh welcomes instructions in the following areas:
What Others Say
"A very responsive and very approachable barrister." "Hugh is a well-rated commercial barrister and silk, quite charming..." (Chambers UK 2020)
"He's a great trial lawyer - he's very impressive, very precise and very good with judges." "He is phenomenally bright but also extremely approachable." (Chambers UK 2019)
"Excellent with clients and able to deal with complex, document-heavy matters with speed and authority." "The pre-eminent barrister in the region. Very effective in court and very popular with solicitors." "Extremely well known and well regarded, he has a huge brain, gets to grips with things very quickly and is very good with clients." (Chambers UK 2018)
"He is an extremely good advocate in court and has a very nice style about him. He is quite persuasive." "He is absolutely brilliant on his feet, he is also incredibly good at drafting and he's very good in negotiations." "Always in demand, and a great practitioner in the field of partnership law." "He's exceptionally hard-working, very bright and innovative." (Chambers UK 2017)
"He is straight forward and forthright and very able to use effective tactics at trial." "Always a very safe pair of hands and great to have on your side: you know he's going to throw all the right punches." "He's responsive, analytical and has a good manner with clients." (Chambers UK 2016)
"He always thinks of the wider picture." "He is equally good at drafting and advocacy" (Chambers UK 2015)
"Hugh is efficient and really delves into the detail of a case. He can turn around work quickly and is very approachable. He is an extremely good advocate - excellent at simplifying complex matters." (Chambers UK 2014)
Recent & Notable Cases
Hugh has a first class honours physics degree. He enjoys, cases with a scientific and technical background. He has particular expertise in complex and technical commercial & professional negligence & indemnity disputes in England & Wales. He enjoys working as a team, with clients, experts, solicitors and junior barristers.
What Others Say
A formidable barrister who handles all manner of contentious commercial issues, from commercial agency disagreements to construction disputes. He is instructed across a broad range of sectors, including technology, sports and financial services. He is also noted for his expertise in professional negligence, company and insolvency matters. (Chambers UK 2020)
"He is fantastic, our first choice. He is very approachable, his intellect is superb and he is very creative." "Bright, responsive and commercial." (Chambers UK 2019)
"Very able to deal with complex, document-heavy matters with speed and authority." (Chambers UK 2018)
"Exceptionally bright and user-friendly across a broad range of practice areas." "He's very good on the detail and very quick at coming to conclusions. He really does inspire confidence and talks at a level clients understand." (Chambers 2017)
"He is a very charismatic individual. Clients love him to bits: he's charming, articulate, quick-witted and indefatigable in his determination to win." "He is very good at seeing the bigger picture and finding a new way through multifaceted disputes." (Chambers UK 2016)
"He is extremely accomplished, very client and solicitor-friendly, and a most effective advocate." "He's very relaxed; he's got a calming impact on people. He doesn't get flustered with clients and doesn't go overly legal on them (Chambers UK 2014)
Recent & Notable Cases
“A standout silk who has published widely on insolvency law and practice. In addition to corporate and personal insolvency, he has a particular expertise in asset recovery and directors' liability. He has extensive experience assisting trustees in bankruptcy and private individuals with complex, high-value claims surrounding personal insolvency. (Chambers UK 2020)
Hugh acts in complex and substantial company and personal insolvency disputes, including claims for and against insolvency practitioners. He enjoys working as a team, with clients, solicitors and other junior barristers.
Hugh welcomes instructions in the following areas:
What Others Say
“"He is intensely intelligent and a formidable advocate." "He's exceptional on his feet and a pleasure to work with." (Chambers UK 2020)
"He is fantastic, our first choice. He is very approachable, his intellect is superb and he is very creative." "Bright, responsive and commercial." (Chambers UK 2019)
"He is very clever, switched-on, practical and commercial. He works in a very collegiate way." "He provides an excellent level of service and a great 'can do' attitude." (Chambers UK 2018)
"He is very thorough and reliable, his advocacy is excellent and he has a great style. He is extremely precise and user-friendly." "Tactically excellent and great to work with." (Chambers UK 2017)
"He is utterly charming, technically incredible and amazing in court." (Chambers UK 2016)
"He has a very keen mind, and is a simply excellent trial advocate". He is exceptional both with clients and at trial" (Chambers UK 2015)
"He is ferociously bright, pragmatic, client-friendly and exceptionally talented." "He rolls his sleeves up and gets stuck in." (Chambers UK 2014)
Recent & Notable Cases
Hugh acts in sports disputes both in court and in tribunal hearings, including contract, commercial and insolvency disputes concerning players, sports clubs and governing bodies in England & Wales. He enjoys working as a team, with clients, solicitors and junior barristers.
Hugh welcomes instructions in the following areas:
Recent & Notable Cases
Hugh's broad ranging commercial and insolvency expertise has resulted in him being asked to provide advice and assistance on his own, and with juniors, in relation to international work and involving offshore jurisdictions, including corporate governance and unfair prejudice matters as well as general commercial and insolvency disputes.
Some examples of that work are as follows:
Banking & Finance
Band 1
Has a highly respected commercial practice that includes deep expertise in an array of areas, including chancery, company law, professional negligence and insolvency-related disputes. His work in the area of banking and finance includes acting both for and against banks and other financial institutions.
Strengths: "He is very, very clever. I am in awe of him. He is always three or four moves ahead of the opponent and he always gets it right."
Recent work: Acted in Oliver Morley v Royal Bank of Scotland, a £50 million claim brought gainst RBS alleging duress, intimidation and breaches of other duties by the bank in relation to its lending practices between 2008 and 2010.
Company
Band 1
Highly regarded commercial and insolvency silk with significant expertise in company disputes. He has extensive experience in unfair prejudice disputes, derivative claims and breach of fiduciary cases, acting both for and against directors.
Strengths: "He is tactically astute, very good on his feet, and his written work is excellent as well." "He is a brilliant commercial silk and a serious commercial practitioner."
Recent work: Acted for the defendants in MDW Holdings v Norvill and Others, a claim regarding alleged breaches of warranties and misrepresentation in connection with a sale and purchase agreement for a waste treatment company.
Restructuring/Insolvency
Band 1
A standout silk who has published widely on insolvency law and practice. In addition to corporate and personal insolvency, he has particular expertise in asset recovery and directors' liability. He has extensive experience assisting trustees in bankruptcy and private individuals with complex, high-value claims surrounding personal insolvency. He has experience of insolvency cases involving wrongdoing.
Strengths: "He is incredibly bright, tactically astute and very good both on his feet and on paper." "An exceptional talent. He is always willing to consider creative strategies and is able to adapt swiftly and seamlessly on his feet."
Recent work: Represented the liquidator of Ethos Solutions in proceedings against multiple defendants. It was alleged that there had been multiple transactions defrauding creditors under Section 423 of the Insolvency Act 1986.
Professional Negligence
Band 1
A leading figure for advising claimants on professional negligence matters against solicitors, surveyors, accountants and construction companies. He receives instructions both locally and nationally.
Strengths: "I am in awe of him because he is always three or four moves ahead of the opponent and he always gets it right."
Partnership
Band 1
An exceptionally versatile commercial silk, praised for his advocacy, advice and client-handling skills across an impressive range of practice areas. In the partnership sphere, he regularly handles high-stakes issues with a strong commercial flavour, including those concerning family partnerships or quasi-partnership structures. He advises extensively on matters affecting solicitors' firms and is commended for his handling of matters where relationships have irretrievably broken down.
Strengths: "He's excellent on paper, as well as his feet. He can rapidly get to grips with matters and works brilliantly as part of the team."
Recent work: Acted for a defendant and partner in Badyal v Badyal & Badyal in dissolution and accounts and enquiries proceedings relating to an ongoing partnership dispute regarding businesses in the UK and India.
Chancery
Band 1
Highly respected silk with a broad chancery practice covering company disputes, real property and partnership matters. He has a particularly strong reputation for commercial work and regularly acts in insolvency, banking and finance and civil fraud cases.
Strengths: "He is outstanding and he has very keen intellect." "Very down to earth, approachable and proactive." "Extremely bright, tactically astute and well liked by clients."
Recent work: Acted for property tycoon Oliver Morley in a £50 million claim against RBS citing duress, tort of intimidation and breaches of other duties by the bank.
Commercial Dispute Resolution
Band 1
A formidable barrister who handles all manner of contentious commercial issues, from commercial agency disagreements to construction disputes. He is instructed across a broad range of sectors, including technology, sports and financial services. He is also noted for his expertise in professional negligence, company and insolvency matters.
Strengths: "Hugh is a consummate silk: he really is a serious operator." "He is very commercial and user-friendly." "Hugh is brilliant when on his feet in court - he was very sharp-witted and able to establish a good rapport with the judge."
Recent work: Represented the claimants in URE Energy v Notting Hill Genesis Housing Association, which involved a £3.75 million claim alleging the wrongful repudiation of an electricity supply contract.
Commercial Litigation
‘A very impressive advocate whether in court or during negotiations.’
Leading silk - Tier 1
Company and Insolvency
‘The shining star at this set, ably supported by the juniors he works with.’
Ranked: Tier 1
Chancery, Probate and Tax
‘Combines excellent analytical skills, and unwavering determination to complete the task in hand.’
Ranked: Tier 1
Banking & Finance
Has a highly respected commercial practice that includes deep expertise in an array of areas, including chancery, company law, professional negligence and insolvency-related disputes. His work in the area of banking and finance includes acting both for and against banks and other financial institutions.
Strengths: "He's thorough, commercial and very determined." Recent work: Represented the claimants in Devon Commercial Property v Barnett and Belcher, multimillion-pound proceedings brought against the former LPA receivers of a commercial premises where allegations of a sale at an undervalue and lack of good faith on the part of the receivers were being made.
Company
Highly regarded commercial and insolvency silk with significant expertise in company disputes. He has extensive experience in unfair prejudice disputes, derivative claims and breach of fiduciary cases, acting both for and against directors.
Strengths: "A very responsive and very approachable barrister." Recent work: Represented the respondents in David v Crossman and Morgan and Infinite Renewables, an unfair prejudice shareholder dispute concerning the shareholders in a renewable electricity generation company in South Wales.
Restructuring & Insolvency
A standout silk who has published widely on insolvency law and practice. In addition to corporate and personal insolvency, he has a particular expertise in asset recovery and directors' liability. He has extensive experience assisting trustees in bankruptcy and private individuals with complex, high-value claims surrounding personal insolvency. He has experience of insolvency cases involving wrongdoing.
Strengths: "He is intensely intelligent and a formidable advocate." "He's exceptional on his feet and a pleasure to work with." Recent work: Represented the claimants in Devon Commercial Property v Barnett & Belcher, multimillion-pound proceedings brought against the former LPA receivers of a commercial premises where allegations of a sale at an undervalue and lack of good faith on the part of the receivers were being made.
Professional Negligence
A leading figure for advising claimants on professional negligence matters against solicitors, surveyors, accountants and construction companies. He receives instructions on matters both locally and nationally.
Strengths: "He is hugely talented, very intelligent and a really nice person to work with. He's easy to talk to and reassuring with clients. He's also very down to earth and measured, and is very good on his feet." Recent work: Acted for the claimants in Premier Motorauctions v PwC and Lloyds Bank. The case involved allegations that PwC negligently advised the companies and had breached its fiduciary duties.
Partnership
An exceptionally versatile commercial silk, praised for his advocacy, advice and client-handling skills across an impressive range of practice areas. In the partnership sphere, he regularly handles high-stakes issues with a strong commercial flavour, including those concerning real property or family partnerships, or quasi-partnership structures. He advises extensively on matters affecting solicitors' firms and is commended for his handling of matters where relationships have irretrievably broken down.
Strengths: "Hugh is a well-rated commercial barrister and silk, quite charming..." Recent work: Continued to represent respondents in David v Crossman & Morgan & Infinite Renewables, an unfair prejudice shareholder dispute involving a renewable energy company in South Wales.
Chancery
Highly respected insolvency silk with a broad chancery practice covering company disputes, real property and partnership matters. He has a particularly strong reputation for commercial work and regularly acts in banking and finance disputes and civil fraud cases.
Strengths: "Hugh can do anything! He's brilliant, and an amazingly nice guy with it." "He is an experienced leading counsel offering specialised advice in relation to complex, high-value claims."
Recent work: Acted for Premier Motorauctions, a car auction business in liquidation, in claims against PwC and Lloyds Bank alleging that there was an unlawful means conspiracy to artificially distress a profitable company.
Commercial Dispute Resolution
A formidable barrister who handles all manner of contentious commercial issues, from commercial agency disagreements to construction disputes. He is instructed across a broad range of sectors, including technology, sports and financial services. He is also noted for his expertise in professional negligence, company and insolvency matters.
Strengths: "He's very user-friendly and has great legal knowledge spanning a wide range of areas. He's a go-to silk for large and more complex disputes." "One of his real strengths is that he's extremely approachable and always available; even when he's busy he makes time for you and remains contactable and visible."
Recent work: Represented the claimants in Devon Commercial Property v Barnett and Belcher, a case brought against the former LPA receivers of a commercial property concerning allegations of a sale at an undervalue and lack of good faith.
Commercial, Banking, Company & Chancery
"An exceptionally able silk with particular expertise in complex Chancery issues."
Banking & Finance
Has a highly respected commercial practice that includes deep expertise in an array of areas, including chancery, company law, professional negligence and insolvency-related disputes. His work in the area of banking and finance includes acting both for and against banks and other financial institutions.
"Clients love him. He's really personable and has a great legal mind. He pre-empts his opponent's moves and thinks three or four steps in advance. He's great strategically and tactically but he's also very approachable and responsive." "He is phenomenally bright and very good at what he does. He fits in well as part of the team and has an interpersonal touch that not all barristers do."
Recent work: Acted on behalf of the claimant car auction business in Premier Motorauctions v PwC and Lloyds Bank, both at first instance and at appeal, alleging conspiracy to artificially distress its company with a view to making a profit by selling it at an undervalue.
Company
Highly regarded commercial and insolvency silk with significant expertise in company disputes. He has extensive experience in unfair prejudice disputes, derivative claims and breach of fiduciary cases, acting both for and against directors.
"He's a great trial lawyer - he's very impressive, very precise and very good with judges." "He's very good, a very effective advocate. He's the leading light down here in this sort of work, he's highly rated."
Recent work: Successfully acted for the applicant in a dispute as to whether a purported director of a company had authority to appeal against a winding-up petition.
Restructuring/Insolvency
A standout silk who has published widely on insolvency law and practice. In addition to corporate and personal insolvency, he has a particular expertise in asset recovery and directors' liability. He has extensive experience assisting trustees in bankruptcy and private individuals with complex, high-value claims surrounding personal insolvency. He has experience of insolvency cases involving wrongdoing.
"He is fantastic, our first choice. He is very approachable, his intellect is superb and he is very creative." "Bright, responsive and commercial."
Recent work: Led a claim for a company against administrators for £10 million. The claim was based around the alleged wrongdoing of the former administrators.
Professional Negligence
A leading figure for advising claimants on professional negligence matters against solicitors, surveyors, accountants and construction companies. He receives instructions on matters both locally and nationally.
"He's our first-choice silk in Bristol for professional negligence or general commercial litigation." "He is phenomenally bright and very good at what he does, but is also extremely approachable." "Hugh is exceptionally bright, a skilled advocate and great on strategy."
Recent work: Represented the claimants in multimillion-pound proceedings against the former receivers of a commercial premises. The case involved allegations of a negligent sale at undervalue and lack of good faith on the part of the receivers.
Partnership
An exceptionally versatile commercial silk, praised for his advocacy, advice and client-handling skills across an impressive range of practice areas. In the partnership sphere, he regularly handles high-stakes issues with a strong commercial flavour, including those concerning real property or family partnerships, or quasi-partnership structures. He advises extensively on matters affecting solicitors' firms and is commended for his handling of matters where relationships have irretrievably broken down.
"Great trial lawyer - very impressive, very precise and very good with judges." "He is phenomenally bright but also extremely approachable."
Recent work: Instructed in a quasi-partnership unfair prejudice shareholder dispute concerning three shareholders in a renewable electricity generation company in South Wales.
Chancery
Highly respected insolvency silk with a broad chancery practice covering company disputes, real property and partnership matters. He has a particularly strong reputation for commercial work and regularly acts in banking and finance disputes and civil fraud cases.
"A class act, who is stylish, he is measured, has a nice court manner and is liked by clients." "Has great clarity of thought, is super intelligent, and is extremely easy to work with."
Recent work: Acted for the claimants in an appeal against a decision concerning the interpretation of a contract for sale of residential development land and Wrotham Park damages.
Commercial Dispute Resolution
A formidable barrister who handles all manner of contentious commercial issues, from commercial agency disagreements to construction disputes. He is instructed across a broad range of sectors, including technology, sports and financial services. He is also noted for his expertise in professional negligence, company and insolvency matters.
"He's a standout barrister who has a very good style with clients - he's easy to work with, pragmatic and practical." "He's very approachable, engaging and responsive, as well as being great with clients." "He is extremely bright and user-friendly."
Recent work: Acted for Premier Motorauctions in proceedings against Lloyds Bank and PwC for an alleged unlawful means conspiracy to artificially distress a profitable company with a view to making profit from a sale at undervalue.
Commercial, Banking, Insolvency & Chancery
'Fantastically bright; a top-class advocate.’
Banking & Finance
Leading Silk - Band 1
Has a highly respected commercial practice that includes deep expertise in an array of areas, including chancery, company law, professional negligence and insolvency-related disputes. His work in the area of banking and finance includes acting both for and against banks and other financial institutions.
Strengths: "He is excellent with clients and very able to deal with complex, document-heavy matters with speed and authority." "He remains a go-to choice for complex general commercial claims and shareholder disputes, and is one of the leading commercial silks operating outside of London. He has a fierce intellect and is very client friendly, he is always making himself available."
Recent work: Represented the claimants in proceedings alleging unlawful conspiracy in order to artificially distress a company.
Chancery
Leading Silk - Band 1
Highly respected insolvency silk with a broad chancery practice covering company disputes, real property and partnership matters. He has a particularly strong reputation for commercial work.
Strengths: "He's excellent, completely on the ball and good with clients." "Very able to deal with complex, document-heavy matters with speed and authority."
Recent work: Successfully represented Premier Motorauctions against PwC and Lloyds Bank, in a case regarding an unlawful means conspiracy to artificially distress a profitable company in order to gain from a sale at an undervalue.
Commercial dispute resolution
Leading Silk - Band 1
A formidable barrister who handles all manner of contentious commercial issues, from commercial agency disagreements to construction disputes. He is instructed across a broad range of sectors, including technology, sports and financial services.
Strengths: "He's always a great pleasure to work with. Probably the best commercial barrister in the South West; he seems to be universally approved of in the region." "He combines a very sharp intellect with tremendous approachability, and he gives advice grounded in common sense."
Recent work: Successfully represented the appellant in a Court of Appeal case concerning non-performance of construction works at Yeovil FC's stadium.
Company
Leading Silk - Band 1
A silk with a highly reputable practice in general commercial and insolvency work. His areas of focus and recognised expertise include company disputes, breach of fiduciary duties on behalf of directors, derivative claims and unfair prejudice dispu
Strengths: "Excellent with clients and able to deal with complex, document-heavy matters with speed and authority." "The pre-eminent barrister in the region. Very effective in court and very popular with solicitors."
Partnership
Leading Silk - Band 1
An exceptionally versatile commercial silk, praised for his advocacy, advice and client-handling skills across an impressive range of practice areas. In the partnership sphere, he regularly handles high-stakes issues with a strong commercial flavour, including those concerning real property or family partnerships, or quasi-partnership structures. He also advises extensively on matters affecting solicitors' firms and is commended for his handling of matters where relationships have irretrievably broken down.
Strengths: "Extremely well known and well regarded, he has a huge brain, gets to grips with things very quickly and is very good with clients."
Professional Negligence
Leading Silk - Band 1
A leading figure for advising claimants in professional negligence matters against solicitors, surveyors, accountants and construction companies. He receives instructions on matters both locally and nationally.
Strengths: "He is always available and very good at anticipating what the other side might do and that's very helpful." "He's bright, meticulous, hard working and thoroughly excellent." "As an advocate, he is excellent. Easy to deal with, client-friendly and very good at working in a team."
Recent work: Represented the claimant in Synson v Lowick Rose. This concerned a £15 million professional negligence claim brought by a lender against a firm of accountants in relation to a due diligence report concerning a purchase of a US medical homecare company.
Restructuring / Insolvency
Leading Silk - Band 1
A strong commercial barrister who specialises in corporate insolvency work. He acts in claims for and against insolvency practitioners, and also has expertise in directors' disqualification proceedings. He possesses additional experience advising on insolvency disputes involving professional negligence claims.
Strengths: "He is very clever, switched-on, practical and commercial. He works in a very collegiate way." "He provides an excellent level of service and a great 'can do' attitude."
Recent work: Instructed on behalf of Premier Motorauctions in claims brought against PwC and Lloyds Bank alleging an unlawful conspiracy to artificially distress a profitable company in order to profit and gain from a sale at undervalue.
Commercial, Banking, Insolvency & Chancery Law
Leading Silks
‘Exceptionally bright and second to none on his feet.’
Banking & Finance
Leading Silk - Band 1
Has a highly respected, broad-ranging commercial practice that includes deep expertise in an array of areas, including chancery, company law, professional negligence and insolvency-related disputes. His work in the area of banking and finance includes acting both for and against banks and other financial institutions.
Strengths: "He is extremely clever and very quick. He considers all matters in great detail and is really thoughtful. A pleasure to work with." "He is very commercial, very good with clients and has a style of presentation that judges like very much."
Recent work: Acted for the claimant lender against a firm of accountants in a claim of professional negligence in relation to a due diligence report concerning the purchase of a US medical homecare company. The matter is on appeal to the Supreme Court.
Chancery
Leading Silk - Band 1
Has a broad chancery practice which includes company disputes, real property and partnership matters. He also has experience in commercial and insolvency litigation.
Strengths: "He is very strong and good on his feet."
Recent work: Appeared before the Chancery Division in London in a case concerning the Sherlock Holmes Museum.
Commercial dispute resolution
Leading Silk - Band 1
A formidable barrister who handles all manner of commercial contentious issues, from disagreements coming out of commercial agency relationships to construction disputes. He tends to represent claimants or appellants in cases and is acclaimed by both instructing solicitors and opposing counsel, who describe his drafting, turnaround time, court manner and way with clients as "just superb" and "absolutely fantastic."
Strengths: "An absolutely brilliant advocate with an exceptional brain; he lives for the court." "By far the best option in Bristol for commercial litigation work." "He's exceptionally bright and he picks things up very quickly; he's good at focusing on the overall picture and seeing how it all hangs together." "A highly accomplished advocate who wins the trust of the judges, is easy to work with, massively commercial, creative with solutions and highly practical - he finds winning solutions to very difficult situations."
Recent work: Successfully acted for the claimants and respondents in PHS v Initial (Rentokil).
Company
Leading Silk - Band 1
A silk with a highly reputable practice in general commercial and insolvency work. His areas of focus and recognised expertise include company disputes, breach of fiduciary duties on behalf of directors and unfair prejudice disputes.
Strengths: "He is an extremely good advocate in court and has a very nice style about him. He is quite persuasive." "He is absolutely brilliant on his feet, he is also incredibly good at drafting and he's very good in negotiations."
Recent work: Acted for the applicant in a case concerning the Sherlock Holmes Society. This was a dispute regarding the rights of purported director of the company to bring an appeal against a winding-up petition.
Partnership
Leading Silk - Band 1
An exceptionally versatile commercial silk, praised for his advocacy, advice and client-handling skills across an impressive range of practice areas. In the partnership sphere, he regularly handles high-stakes issues with a strong commercial flavour, including those concerning real property or family partnerships, or quasi-partnership structures. He also advises extensively on matters affecting solicitors' firms.
Strengths: "Always in demand, and a great practitioner in the field of partnership law." "He's exceptionally hard-working, very bright and innovative."
Professional Negligence
Leading Silk - Band 1
A leading figure for advising on claims against solicitors, surveyors, accountants and construction companies.
Strenghts: "Exceptionally bright and user-friendly across a broad range of practice areas." "He's very good on the detail and very quick at coming to conclusions. He really does inspire confidence and talks at a level clients understand."
Recent work: Respresented a lender in a claim against a firm of accountants concerning a negligent due diligence report for the purchase of a US medical home care company.
Restructuring / Insolvency
Leading Silk - Band 1
A strong commercial barrister who specialises in corporate insolvency work. He acts in claims for and against insolvency practitioners, and also has expertise in directors' disqualification proceedings.
Strengths: "He is very thorough and reliable, his advocacy is excellent and he has a great style. He is extremely precise and user-friendly." "Tactically excellent and great to work with."
Recent work: Successfully acted in a validation application concerning the post-petition transfer of commercial property in Hatton Garden, London.
Commercial, Banking, Insolvency & Chancery Law
Leading Silks
'He has an ability to read the opponent and situation very well.'
Banking & Finance
Leading Silk - Band 1
A well-respected barrister rapidly developing a first-class reputation at silk level for his expertise in the finance sector and experience in banking disputes. He acts both for and against banks on a wide variety of matters including mortgage fraud.
Strengths: "He's thorough, commercial and determined." "He's really an excellent advocate."
Recent work: Successfully represented the claimant bank in Mortgage Title Resolutions Services Ltd v J E Shepherd Chartered Surveyors which alleged professional negligence in relation to residential mortgage lending.
Chancery
Leading Silk - Band 1
Primarily known for his commercial chancery practice, he covers all manner of shareholder disagreements and professional negligence claims. He is highly regarded by peers and instructing solicitors alike.
Strengths: "He is a very charismatic individual. Clients love him to bits; he's charming, articulate, quick-witted and indefatigable in his determation to win." "He is very good at seeing the bigger picture and finding a way through multifaceted disputes."
Recent work: Successfully acted for a lender bringing a £15million professional negligence claim against a firm of accountants in relation to a due diligence report concerning a purchase of a US medical homecare company.
Commercial dispute resolution
Leading Silk - Band 1
An outstanding profile for commercial litigation, with sources in agreement the he has had "a very good first year of silk". He has appeared in the Bristol Mercantile Court, the High Court and the Court of Appeal in a variety of contractual, corporate, insolvency and financial disputes.
Strengths: "He is clever, incisive and possesses a canny ability to provide lucid, practical and easily digestible advice for solicitors and clients alkike." "He very quickly gets up to speed and provides clear and concise commercial guideance in respect of his client's legal predicaments."
Partnership
Leading Silk - Band 1
Distinguished commercial silk who regulartly acts at the intersecion of corporate, commerical and partnership issues, handling both traditional and quasi-partnership matters. Sources highlight his skills as both an advocate and and adviser, commending his commited approach and breadth of expertise.
Strengths: "Always a very safe pair of hands and great to have on your side: you know he is going to throw all the right punches." "He's responsive, very analytical and has a good manner with clients."
Restructuring / Insolvency
Leading Silk - Band 1
Focuses on corporate insolvency work. He is noted for his expertise in directors' disqualification matters and for his expertise indisputes for and against insolvency practitioners.
Strengths: "He is utterly charming, technically incredible and amazing in court."
Commercial, banking and insolvency
Leading Silks
'He has that bit of a star quality that clients expect from a silk.'
Banking & Finance
Leading Silk - New Silk
An impressive new silk who handles cases for and against banks as well as having notable experience in acting for lender clients. He is highly regarded by peers and instructing solicitors for his client management skills and his considerable experience.
Expertise: "He makes fairly complex cases seem very easy, very effortless." "One of the most talented barristers at the Bristol Bar."
Recent work: Successfully acted for the claimant lender, Platform Funding, in bringing a claim of professional negligence against solicitors Simon & Co.
Chancery
Receives instructions in the South West and London on both traditional and Commercial chancery matters. Disputes relating to trusts, real property, partnerships and insolvency form a large part of his caseload.
Expertise: "What he does so well is he has a fresh curiosity about everything. He doesn't get stuck in conventional wisdoms. He adds fresh value to everything." "It is no mystery why he has been made up to silk this year; he is charming, clever and has a great mind."
Commercial dispute resolution
Acts on a range of complex and substantial Commercial matters, receiving instructions from local and national solicitors.
Expertise: "He's an absolutely stellar lawyer but a terrific chap as well. It's quite rare to combine the two and he does it effortlessly." "He's a very able advocate, is immensely practical and Commercial, and has courage in his conviction."
Recent work: Acted for John Grimes partnership in a professional negligence claim against a construction engineer relating to a residential development in Cornwall.
Company
Offers advice and representation across a range of company law matters. He often works on cases involving schemes of arrangement, and is experienced in working with clients with backgrounds in sport and financial services.
Expertise: "He always thinks of the wider picture." "He is equally good at drafting and advocacy."
Partnership
New silk who is one of the leading practitioners of chancery and Commercial work on the Western Circuit, with partnership matters making up a substantial part of his practice. His expertise includes dissolutions, breaches of duties of good faith and joint venture disputes.
Expertise: "He has an impressive way of dealing with matters. He forms a good understanding of the case, develops a rapport with the client and instructing solicitors, formulates a strategy in conjunction with instructing solicitors, and works tirelessly on the matter." "He is super-bright, great with clients and impressively Commercial. He is also a pleasure to deal with."
Professional Negligence
Has a broad and celebrated Commercial practice, spanning a number of legal disciplines. He is frequently instructed on substantial negligence claims against a range of professionals, including solicitors, accountants, surveyors and those in the construction industry.
Expertise: "He makes fairly complex cases seem very easy and very effortless. He's good on paper and good on his feet." "He goes above and beyond the call of duty, and that is recognised by clients."
Recent work: He successfully acted for the claimant in a negligence claim brought against a construction engineer in relation to a residential development.
Restructuring/Insolvency
Acts in both corporate and personal insolvency situations, and is particularly adept at managing directors' disqualification proceedings. He is highly regarded as a go-to practitioner for heavy insolvency disputes.
Expertise: "He has a very keen mind, and is a simply excellent trial advocate." "He is exceptional both with clients and at trial."
Banking & Finance
Instructed to act both for and against banks and financial institutions on a variety of issues in the area including mortgage fraud, guarantee enforcement and negligence matters.
Expertise: "A real solid performer on paper and in court."
Recent work: Represented claimant bank in a professional negligence action against a firm of solicitors in connection with residential mortgage lending.
Commercial
The leading junior on the Western Circuit for Commercial litigation. He is instructed in heavyweight Commercial disputes by both regional and national solicitors.
Expertise: "He is extremely sharp, willing to consider innovative arguments and willing to place his neck on the line when giving advice." "He is simply the best junior Commercial litigation barrister in Wales and the West."
Recent work: He acted for the claimant in a professional negligence claim against a construction engineer concerning a residential development in Cornwall.
Chancery
Offers considerable expertise across a broad range of chancery matters. While his practice has a strong Commercial bent to it, he is equally adept at more traditional matters such as property and trusts. The pillar of his practice, however, lies in insolvency and Commercial disputes, for which he receives notable praise.
Expertise: "He is deeply clever and inventive, both in terms of legal knowledge and tactical nous, and he is an excellent advocate. He has an engaging, proactive and Commercial approach which goes down very well with clients.
Insolvency
Holds an excellent reputation in this field, and focuses his practice on corporate insolvency work. Commentators are also keen to highlight his expertise in directors' disqualification proceedings.
Expertise: "He is ferociously bright, pragmatic, client-friendly and exceptionally talented." "He rolls his sleeves up and gets stuck in."
Recent work: He was instructed on behalf of the liquidator in a claim against a shadow director in a trial heard before a Deputy High Court Judge.
Partnership
Offers a broad Commercial practice, and is highly rated by observers for his expertise in partnership law. Interviewees attest to a forceful and highly effective advocacy style.
Expertise: "Hugh is efficient and really delves into the detail of a case. He can turn around work quickly and is very approachable. He is an extremely good advocate - excellent at simplifying complex matters."
Recent work: In Jackson v Bricknell, Sims acted on behalf of the claimant in a claim against the wife of a former partner in a building business. The case, which was settled on the first day of trial, involved allegations that the partner had breached his fiduciary duties.
Professional Negligence
A Commercial and chancery practitioner with a strong professional negligence practice. He is instructed in claims against a broad array of professionals, including accountants, solicitors and surveyors.
Expertise: "He is extremely accomplished, very client and solicitor-friendly, and a most effective advocate." "He's very relaxed; he's got a calming impact on people. He doesn't get flustered with clients and doesn't go overly legal on them - Hugh is one of the better juniors for claimant professional negligence work outside of London."
Recent work: He acted on behalf of a claimant bank in a claim brought against a firm of surveyors concerning alleged professional negligence in residential mortgage lending.
Company
Offers significant experience across a broad range of company law matters, including directors' and shareholder disputes and schemes of arrangement.
Banking & Finance
"A solid reputation for complex, high-value claims in the banking area".
Commercial
"A versatile barrister with many strings to his bow. Possessed of a broad span of knowledge in the Commercial sphere, he is a "dynamic performer"...Hailed as a "can-do operator" who "sees solutions, not problems," Sims' work on his feet wins just as much praise as his "exceptional written advice." "He's the best cross-examiner for us and probably the first we'd go to," said one interviewee."
Chancery
"One interviewee...[commented] that "the chap is like a walking encyclopaedia - he just rattles off case after case."
Insolvency
"Very bright and personable" provides "good Commercial advice," and is "well received by judges and he's confident in his demeanour."
Partnership
"Good in court and good with the client," he is "a class act," who has recently advised on a number of property development or construction-related partnership disputes."
Banking & Finance
Hugh "is also heavily involved in banking and finance disputes as an addendum to his formidable Commercial litigation practice. Solicitors favour him as an accessible and user-friendly practitioner who "will always get to the root of complex issues."
Commercial
..."an outstanding barrister" who is "fantastic both on strategy and on the Commercial imperatives of a case." Others say he is also "wonderfully analytical, incisive and accessible."
Chancery
Hugh "handles an admirably broad practice. Much of his work focuses on insolvencies, Commercial and contract litigation and professional negligence claims, and sources further praise his property and partnership nous".
Insolvency
Tipped by sources as "a star of the future."
Partnership
Hugh "handles difficult partnership cases with aplomb. He is known for his "ability to keep a calm hand on the tiller and steer an astute course through complex partnership litigation."
Banking & Finance
"Hugh Sims provides "quick, accurate advice and is very willing to go above and beyond to help you in any way possible," say solicitors. He acts both for and against banks and financial institutions."
Commercial
"Market commentators are united in the opinion that Hugh Sims is the leading Commercial junior on the Western circuit. He is considered to be "a consistent high-flyer and an exceptionally gifted individual. He's client-friendly, fights his cases hard and is an excellent advocate."
Chancery
"Hugh Sims is commended for his "sharp, bright mind." In addition to having an excellent grasp of insolvency law, he also has great insight into trust, partnerships and property issues."
Insolvency
"He is "razor-sharp and fights hard for his clients.""
Partnership
"Incredibly clever rising star" Hugh Sims, an "excellent fighter in court" who is "so straightforward to deal with."
For further information and enquiries please contact:
Commercial or Insolvency: Joe Stayte or Stephen Arnold
