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Roberto Francis

Posted on: December 6th, 2024 by Natasha Cox

I am a Senior Associate in the Real Estate Disputes Department having joined Lawrence Stephens in December 2024.

I join the firm with extensive experience acting for bridging and alternative lenders with a primary focus on secured and unsecured recoveries, which includes but is not limited to possession claims, receivership, insolvency and professional negligence.

I like to take a down to earth approach and develop strong relationships with clients, thereby ensuring that their needs and expectations are at the forefront of my mind when progressing any given matter.

Outside of work, I am a fitness enthusiast and enjoy going to the gym and running.  Over recent years I have taken part in a number of runs. When I am not training I love all things food related and like eating out with friends and family.

Experience highlights

  • Successfully obtaining a vesting order in favour of a lender
  • Acting for a lender in the settlement of a professional negligence claim prior to the issue of proceedings

Dominic Holden

Posted on: November 12th, 2024 by Natasha Cox

I am a Director in the Dispute Resolution team, having joined Lawrence Stephens in November 2024. My practice covers a broad range of commercial disputes for businesses and high-net-worth individuals. My cases are frequently complex, document heavy and involve multiple parties as well as a cross-border element and the need for emergency relief (e.g. freezing orders).

I specialise in substantial civil fraud claims (notably data/computer hacking claims) and complicated multi-national, enforcement and asset tracing work. I also advise on breach of trust, professional negligence, contentious insolvency and director, shareholder and/or partnership disputes.

I have also developed a niche practice in art and collectibles disputes. 

Experience highlights

  • Farhad Azima -v- Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority (RAKIA), Neil Gerrard, Dechert LLP and James Buchanan. Acted for Mr Azima in his long-running dispute against the Ras-Al Khaimah sovereign wealth fund (and other alleged co-conspirators). The case involves allegations of computer hacking by RAKIA of Mr Azima’s confidential and privileged data. Further information on the case can be found here: https://www.brickcourt.co.uk/news/detail/judgments-in-favour-of-emirati-sovereign-wealth-fund-set-aside-on-grounds-of-fraud-by-the-fund and https://www.solicitorsjournal.com/sjarticle/uk-high-court-voids-judgments-amid-allegations-of-hacking-and-fraud
  • Advised a well-known catering company in relation to their rights, remedies and reporting obligations following a malicious breach of their email system whereby the malicious entity circulated confidential information and disparaging comments to members of staff which (in part) led to threatened trade union action.
  • Advised a wealthy businessman on his rights and remedies following the alleged hacking of his personal data and forging of documents by a firm of private investigators to support a substantial claim against him (and others) in the English High Court.
  • Acting for a fintech client in relation to their claims against a payment aggregator. Obtaining an emergency worldwide freezing order, proprietary injunction and disclosure orders concerning the misappropriation of a substantial sum.
  • Substantial fraud claim against a rogue builder following his gross over-charging of an elderly client. An emergency freezing order, proprietary injunction, third party disclosure order and an order for the delivery up of a number of high value vehicles obtained. Further assisted the police and the Crown Prosecution Service to bring a successful criminal prosecution against the rogue builder.
  • Successfully defended a fraudulent attempt to obtain adverse possession of land and obtained judgment that the documents later relied on in enforcement proceedings were a sham.

Sarah Keating

Posted on: July 15th, 2024 by Hugh Dineen-Lees

I joined Lawrence Stephens in July 2024 as a paralegal in the Disputes Resolution team.

I bring over 20 years’ experience to the firm, having previously worked at a top West End law firm as a legal secretary within the Dispute Resolution department, dealing with property litigation and insolvency, bankruptcy and restructuring.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading, cooking and spending time with my two daughters.

Matt Green

Posted on: June 13th, 2024 by Natasha Cox

I am a specialist litigator for complex and multi-jurisdictional disputes with blockchain technology and digital assets at their core.  My practice includes crypto asset recovery for individuals and businesses following a hack, scam or misappropriation. I have extensive experience in obtaining urgent bespoke injunctions, worldwide freezers and specific disclosure orders.

I am currently chair of techUK’s Digital Asset Working Group, designed to (i) consider opportunities for market growth (ii) steer industry players by giving a collective voice to stakeholders large and small and (iii) help educate how both this asset class and technology can shape financial services and beyond.

My practice also includes commercial litigation, disputes concerning technology and intellectual property matters, including trade mark and copyright infringement over digital, artistic and technology focused works.

As founder and host of the In Early Podcast, I speak with those at the forefront of the blockchain and technology sectors. Episodes can be found via YouTube, Apple, and Spotify.

Experience highlights

  • AA v Persons Unknown [2019] EWHC 3556 (Comm)  (Comm) (13 December 2019) where, following a ransomware attack, an insurer paid Bitcoin in return for a Canadian hospital’s access to their customers’ data. This case confirmed that Bitcoin and crypto assets broadly were  ‘property’ at common law and helped shape much of the law surrounding the status and strategies in freezing and recovering crypto assets around the world. It is highly cited in academic papers and judgments globally.
  • Acting for a crypto currency brokerage whereby business functionality was blocked by their service and liquid provider following Court Orders obtained by the Secret Service and which resulted in the return of c.$1m of Tether.
  • Obtaining reliefs against North Korean hackers following an exploit of an established crypto address provider and serving documents via Ether NFTs.
  • Crypto Open Patent Alliance v Craig Steven Wright [2024] EWHC 1198 (Ch) (20 May 2024), joint proceedings concerning copyright and database claims, as to the identity of the Bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto and whether he can exercise intellectual property rights over “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System”.
  • Tulip Trading Limited (A Seychelles Company) v Bitcoin Association For BSV & Ors: Devising a new strategy for the recovery of (i) private keys, preventing access to billions of pounds worth of Bitcoin, and (ii) other crypto assets worth millions as part of a wider hack. 
  • Securing private Court Orders against and working with major cryptocurrency exchanges to freeze funds and comply with enforcement provisions following sophisticated investment platform and romance scams. 

Publications

NFT Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Connoisseurship and Critique 
Decentralised Autonomous Organisations: The Future of Corporate Governance or an Illusion

Bitcoin Magazine: Now That Bitcoin Is Considered Property In The UK, Reclaiming Ransomed Assets Sent To Exchanges Is Much Easier

Financial Times Advisor: We need to treat crypto fraud like any other crime’ – How to Recover Lost Crypto

The Founder’s Guide to UK.pdf – Google Drive

 

Asim Arshad

Posted on: August 8th, 2023 by Natasha Cox

I am a dedicated Commercial Disputes lawyer with a particular specialism in the emerging cryptoasset sector.

I have diverse experience within commercial litigation, encompassing areas such as breach of contract, partnership and joint venture disputes, shareholder disputes, franchise disputes, product liability claims and debt recovery.

Working closely with our Sports division, I have acted for a number of high profile clients in the world of sports and entertainment where the disputes often possess a delicate and confidential nature. Understanding the unique challenges and privacy concerns that come with such cases, I prioritise discretion and confidentiality, ensuring that the interests and reputations of my clients are safeguarded.

My expertise is further complemented by a familiarity with prominent arbitration institutions. I have adeptly represented clients in arbitral proceedings under the rules of institutions such as the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA) and the Judicial Arbitration and Mediation Services (JAMS).

As the nascent cryptoasset sector has matured, I have developed a particular focus and specialism in providing legal services and advice to clients operating in the crypto and digital asset sector. From cryptoasset regulation and compliance advice to dispute resolution, my blend of traditional commercial litigation expertise, forward-thinking approach and deep understanding of digital assets, blockchain and the unique challenges and environment in which industry participants operate, positions me as a trusted legal advisor to many in the sector.

Notably among these is my work with one of the largest NFT projects on the Cardano blockchain. In addition, I have acted as a trusted crypto lawyer to one of the industry’s leading mining platforms and have advised various token issuing entities as well as a tier 1 exchange, further solidifying my reputation as a trusted legal advisor in this growing sector.

I am dedicated to delivering innovative, robust, and cost-effective legal solutions tailored to the specific needs of each client, and I take pride in being a trusted advisor in both traditional and emerging sectors.

Experience highlights 

  • Successfully defended a UK-based individual against attempts by a U.S. crypto lender, which had filed for bankruptcy, to recover payments made during the preference period.
  • Advised a token-issuing entity and a play-to-earn (P2E) platform on a broad range of regulatory considerations, including navigating the FCA token classification guidelines, including a thorough analysis of token characteristics to determine appropriate regulatory treatment, and provided strategic advice to mitigate regulatory risks.
  • Provided strategic advice and guidance to a token issuing entity on structuring the token issuance to comply with applicable regulations. Also advised on related issues such as anti-money laundering (AML) compliance, financial promotion rules, and the preparation of legal documentation to support the token’s launch and ongoing operations.
  • Acted for an individual who had lost in excess of £1m in cryptoassets as a result of a sophisticated investment scam, utilising innovative legal strategies and remedies to trace and recover stolen funds.
  • Assisted multiple clients in navigating the complexities of using cryptoassets for substantial purchases, including property purchases.
  • Collaborated with a European law firm to assist their client to annul a tax decision issued by relevant tax authority, which had requested in excess of €1m by way of tax liability on cryptoassets not yet withdrawn from a platform.
  • Represented a number of clients in recovering substantial sums which had previously been deemed ‘irretrievable’ by centralised exchanges due to erroneous transfers.
  • Advised a global exchange through evolving regulatory and compliance requirements to operate within the UK market.
  • Represented several token-issuing entities in negotiations with major crypto exchanges for the listing of their tokens. Advising on listing requirements, disclosure obligations, and drafted listing agreements that protecting interests while meeting the compliance standards of the exchanges.
  • Advised clients on the formation and governance of Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs), including the structuring of legal entities and the drafting of governance frameworks to ensure transparent and fair decision-making processes.
  • Instructed as part of a multi-jurisdictional legal team on the creation and structuring of cryptoasset investment funds targeted at institutional clients.
  • Acted for clients in significant commercial agreements where cryptoassets formed a substantial part of the transaction value, providing strategic guidance on the valuation and transfer of cryptoassets, due diligence to assess cryptoasset portfolios, and negotiating terms that aligned with the parties obligations and risk profiles.
  • Acted for crypto businesses and individuals in disputes relating to compensation schemes tied to cryptoasset valuations, token generation events and token rewards.
  • Advised a range of traditional businesses, including retail businesses, on integrating cryptoassets as a form of payment within their business models. Developed strategies to mitigate risks associated with volatility, fraud, and regulatory scrutiny, while ensuring seamless implementation and alignment with business objectives.”

Victoria McGrady

Posted on: June 9th, 2023 by Natasha Cox

I joined Lawrence Stephens from the Crown Prosecution Service where I was a Senior Crown Prosecutor working as an advocate, based in the Magistrates’ Courts and Youth Courts in Kent, Surrey and Sussex.

Prior to qualifying and working as a solicitor in the City, I worked as a teacher and lecturer of law (including criminal and contract law, torts and human rights) at universities and secondary schools/colleges for 15 years.

I am dual-qualified as both a solicitor and a teacher. While I primarily work as an associate in the Dispute Resolution team (primarily focusing on advocacy), I am also the firm’s lead on learning and development.

My experience as an advocate in court – particularly in trials – enables me to take a pragmatic and proactive approach to resolving disputes in an efficient and practical way.

Away from the office, I am happiest when spending quality time with family and friends and as much time outside as possible. As well as being a keen swimmer and walker, I also read and travel as much as time permits.

Abtin Yeganeh

Posted on: February 28th, 2023 by Natasha Cox

I joined Lawrence Stephens in March 2023 as a Senior Associate in the Dispute Resolution department. I was promoted to my current role as a Director and Head of Real Estate Disputes in August 2024.

I deal with a wide range of matters including but not limited to, secured recoveries, party wall and developer claims, trespass, rights to light claims, professional negligence, and all landlord tenant matters relating to breaches of covenant, possession, forfeiture, insolvency, debt recovery, contested lease renewals and dilapidation claims.

I have experience of taking matters to trial in the High Court and have also been involved in a number of successful appeals before the Court of Appeal.

My clients include lenders, investors, commercial landlords, local authorities, and insolvency practitioners.

I am married with three boys and live in South West London. Outside of work my interests include football, golf and going out with family and friends.

Experience highlights 

  • Acting for a developer and London Local Authority in a High Court Rights to Light Claim
  • Advising and acting for various lenders in connection with enforceability of security documents, out of court administration appointments, receivership, obtaining vacant possession and enforcing personal guarantees.
  • Obtaining an order from the Upper Tribunal (Land Chamber) discharging a restrictive covenant under s.84 of the Law of Property Act 1925
  • Advising a bank in respect of its occupation of premises at Tower 42 on Old Broad Street and dealing with a claim by the landlord for dilapidations
  • Legget & Ors -v-Giambrone Law LLP (In Liquidation) – €3.5m group litigation claim by 43 claimants against their former solicitors, Giambrone Law (“the Firm”) over its advice the clients in a failed property development that had alleged had links to the Mafia.  It had been alleged that the Firm was under a duty to warn investors of the risks involved in investing in a part of Italy associated with organised crime
  • Acting for a BVI entity (the Applicant) for an order by the Court approving the terms of a contested lease and for it to be executed by a Judge pursuant to section 39 of the Senior Courts Act 1981
  • Successfully obtaining a vesting order against the Crown estate
  • Acting for the successful claimants in various libel claims which have included, Al-Haddad -v- BBC, Sultan Choudhury -v- The Times Newspaper Limited, Huda Television Limited -v- The Henry Jackson Society.

Priya Patel

Posted on: February 15th, 2023 by Natasha Cox

I qualified as a solicitor in our Dispute Resolution department in July 2020 and was promoted to Associate in November 2023.

I completed my Legal Practice Course and obtained an LLM at the University of Law in 2016 where I worked as a paralegal before joining Lawrence Stephens as a trainee in July 2018.

I enjoy running and trekking in my spare time, having completed a trek in the Himalayas to raise funds for charity.  I also enjoy reading, baking and playing the piano, and am currently also learning to play the guitar.

Andrew Conway

Posted on: February 10th, 2023 by Natasha Cox

Having qualified in 1995, I joined Lawrence Stephens in April 1999 and have been a Partner since July 2003.

I advise extensively in relation to contractual disputes, breach of warranty claims, employment disputes, debt recovery and enforcement, insolvency-related matters (both personal and corporate), partnership and shareholders’ disputes, professional negligence claims and all manner of property-related litigation. I am also a member of the Property Litigation Association (PLA), and the Employment Lawyers Association (ELA).

My clients include businesses, real estate investment funds, asset managers, lenders and individuals.

I am married with two sons and live in North West London. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, walking our two dogs, Buster and Hugo, playing golf and supporting Watford FC.

Experience highlights 

  • Advising a Premier League footballer in relation to High Court proceedings arising from a contractual dispute with his former agent
  • Obtaining injunctions against the former directors of a software development business in relation to both the theft of confidential information and the establishment of a competing business in breach of post-termination restrictive covenants
  • Advising property developers in connection with a claim for damages against their building contractors for defective works and breach of contract
  • Acting for a property trading company in relation to a disputed claim for substantial dilapidations on expiry of a lease of commercial premises
  • Advising a client in connection with claims (in both the Employment Tribunal and the High Court) against her former employer for unfair dismissal and sex and race discrimination

Eddie Johns

Posted on: February 10th, 2023 by Natasha Cox

I’ve worked for solicitors in the City of London for over 40 years.  Described by my clients as “the least lawyer-like lawyer” they’ve seen, my refreshing preference for plain-speaking and down-to-earth manner inspire trust.

My particular strength is in resolving problems in an efficient, speedy and economical way. I have extensive experience in business crime, commercial litigation, Revenue matters and extradition work.

I’m a member of BASL and represent several sports people, primarily in football; both playing and management staff.  I’ve acted on matters before the FA disciplinary panel and its appeal panel as well as extensive FA investigations.

Recently, I successfully concluded major extradition case after a 21-year battle arising from one of the largest civil litigation matters ever heard by the English Court, involving multi-jurisdictional claims.

I have obtained a multi-million-pound judgment for a major business figure establishing fraud and forgery by the defendant within the civil court.  I’ve also brought to the firm an excellent network of contacts together with a loyal client following, some of whom I have acted for in excess of 40 years.

When time allows for outside interests, I enjoy watching football (this is in spite of being a Crystal Palace season ticket holder), motor sport and travel.  I’ve been married for over 40 years and have 2 grown up children and 2 wonderful grandchildren.

Experience highlights 

  • DW v TJ – Successful prosecution of claim for return of £500,000
  • SA v MA – Successful application for husband dismissing wife’s continuing maintenance claim
  • FKJ v Gov’t Spain – Undecided full application to European Court of Human Rights
  • FKJ v SSHD – Contested Extradition 2000 – 2021
  • JC v DW – Successful strike out of claim against client for £500,000
  • MA v TJ £5m judgment secured having overcome jurisdictional challenge
  • FA v X Successful dismissal of FA suspension after 2.5 years

Rosalin Gautam

Posted on: February 10th, 2023 by Natasha Cox

I joined Lawrence Stephens as a Dispute Resolution solicitor in September 2021 and am now an Associate.

Specialising in commercial litigation, I have acted for a range of clients, including companies and private individuals on professional negligence claims, contractual, partnership and shareholder disputes.

I enjoy watching and playing most sports, having competitively played ice hockey and field hockey as well as participating in and judging sailing competitions.  I also enjoy hiking, exploring new restaurants and am a keen traveller.  I am a native Swede and am fluent in Swedish with a high proficiency of Norwegian.

Sophie Robertson

Posted on: February 10th, 2023 by Natasha Cox

I joined Lawrence Stephens’ Real Estate team as a paralegal in April 2022. I am now a trainee solicitor at the firm, currently in the Dispute Resolution team.

After graduating from university in Australia with a Bachelors Degree in Communications, I obtained my GDL and a LPC with a Master of Law from the University of Law in 2019 with High Distinction.

Before joining Lawrence Stephens, I worked as an in-house paralegal at a travel and leisure company, followed by a role as a real estate paralegal at a high street law firm.

I have experience in commercial and residential property, including working for property developers, high net worth individuals and lenders.

I believe in the value of client care and service, building relationships with clients and ensuring they are communicated with at each stage of the process.

Growing up in Hong Kong and having also lived in Melbourne and Singapore, I love travelling with my husband and exploring new places.  In my spare time, I am a competitive hockey player, enjoy running to keep fit and trying new restaurants in London.