Kate Francis-Hughes Associate

Kate is an associate in the firm’s dispute resolution team and acts for commercial clients on a broad range of contentious matters. She has a particular focus on commercial and financial disputes, as well as a keen interest in professional negligence.

Kate works with her colleagues to help clients arrive at the right solution to their issue, minimising impact and maximising success. She is supported by our extensive dispute resolution practice with a proven track record in the highest-profile cases and cross-border, multi-sector expertise.

Kate’s experience includes High Court proceedings, as well as advising clients on alternative forms of dispute resolution, including mediation. She is also familiar with arbitration proceedings, having advised clients in both LCIA and ICC arbitrations.

• Acting in a high-profile conspiracy claim made against a major financial institution in respect of an alleged manipulation of the share exchange ratio used in the largest ever steel-merger, causing certain minority shareholders potential losses in excess of $30m.
• Acting on a cross-border dispute for a high-net worth individual in respect of shares listed on the US Stock Exchange.
• Advising an international oil & gas offshore renewable company in LCIA and ICC Arbitrations in two breach of contract claims against a UAE entity.
• Attending High Court and Court of Appeal proceedings on behalf of a devolved government, and providing ad-hoc advice and assistance in relation to judicial review proceedings.
• Involved in several complex and high-value director/shareholder disputes, including a multi-million pound JV dispute, and a highly contentious s.994 Petition.
• Involved in several professional negligence claims, including claims against solicitors, surveyors, local authorities, and utility companies.