Advice on commercial contracts and agreements

Agreeing the terms of a commercial relationship

Advice may concern a proposed contract, amendments to an existing agreement or the terms used across a business. I can consider responsibilities, payment, performance, confidentiality and how the relationship may end.

The starting point is what the parties want to achieve and which terms need attention. A review can be scoped to particular clauses or to the agreement as a whole.

Transactions, trade and finance

I also consider international M&A, including cross-border acquisitions, asset purchases, due diligence and transaction support. Trade finance, letters of credit and commodity matters remain within the commercial practice.

The legal work and the governing law must be established for the particular matter. An international transaction does not imply that I advise on every jurisdiction involved.

Performance and existing disagreements

Questions may concern what was agreed, performance, payments, a proposed change or ending a contract. I offer party advice on the contractual position, negotiation and suitable arbitration or mediation work. I do not offer court litigation.

Distribution, commercial agency, shipping agreements and marine insurance raise different questions. The service guide can help you choose a starting point for an enquiry.

Advice on an existing commercial contract dispute

Before changing or ending a contract

I can review the agreement and discuss the proposed change or ending of the relationship, your objectives and relevant timing. The terms, circumstances and English-law scope need to be considered before advice is given.

If a disagreement has already arisen, I can consider party advice on the contractual position and options for negotiation, arbitration or mediation. I do not offer court litigation.

Advice where a contract is already disputed

Preparing an initial enquiry

Give a brief, non-confidential outline of the agreement or transaction, your role and the broad issue. Indicate whether an agreement already exists and whether English law applies. Mention relevant timing without uploading confidential documents through the form.