Commercial Law

Building on its strengths as a common law set, 7 Bedford Row has developed substantial expertise in a broad range of general commercial litigation acting for corporate and individual clients. From the ‘sharp end' of freezing and search and seize orders in aid of asset recovery in civil fraud, to arbitration, cross-border issues, sale of goods and professional negligence, the commercial team offers a range of experienced practitioners who advise and undertake litigation in the civil courts, as well as mediation and arbitration. Several members act as mediators and adjudicators. A mediation suite is available in chambers. We also boast video conferencing facilities. The team includes members qualified to take Direct Access instructions.

The team is instructed in a wide range of work including:-

• Agency
• Asset recovery
• Bailment
• Breach of Warranty
• Civil Fraud
• Construction and IT disputes
• Directors' duties and breach of fiduciary duties
• Directors' disqualification proceedings
• Insurance
• Partnership
• Professional Negligence
• Proprietary estoppel, resulting and constructive trusts and restitutionary claims
• Sale of Goods
• Shareholders' and Boardroom disputes

Examples of significant and recent cases are set out overleaf.

The commercial practice is complemented by shared expertise in closely related areas such as employment, business crime and regulatory work. 7 Bedford Row's alliance with the Jersey-based firm Baker Platt has enhanced its profile in off-shore work and enables us to offer a wealth of experience in all aspects of international fraud.

The team undertakes a regular seminar programme with presentations delivered in Chambers and solicitors’ offices. Recent topics have included various aspects of the liability of company directors, ‘Entire Agreement’ clauses, changes implemented by the Companies Act 2006, aspects of civil fraud (injunctive relief, tracing and other remedies, and practical and evidential issues) and enforcement of judgments.