On 24 June 2016 Chambers & Partners published the Chambers High Net Worth Guide which is their first publication specifically aimed at the international private wealth market.
The guide ranks BCL in Band 1 of the leading firms in the UK in the Financial Crime practice area.
In addition, four of BCL’s partners (Ian Burton, Jane Glass, Brian Spiro & Harry Travers) are recommended as Leaders in their Field in the UK for Financial Crime, double that of the other ranked firms.
The full editorial in relation to BCL is set out below.
BCL Burton Copeland is “unquestionably at the top of the tree,” says a source. Another commentator affirms that they are “absolutely first rate.” The firm is lauded by interviewees for its deep bench of experienced practitioners. “The strength of their position is primarily in their partners. They’ve got a fantastically strong team,” notes one observer.
The firm’s work for high net worth individuals includes bribery and corruption, money laundering and fraud allegations. Lawyers at the firm excel in managing complex cases across jurisdictions and regularly advise local law firms on how best to proceed with significant matters.
Notable practitioners
“If I was an oligarch in bad trouble, I’d go to Ian Burton,” says one source, adding: “He’s the one with the greatest amount of experience, and he has a calm demeanour in those situations.” Burton specialises in resolving a wide range of complex matters for wealthy individuals around the world. A source identifies him as “the figurehead of financial crime, he is able to cut through the rubbish without blinking. There aren’t many who can do that.” Another states that he is “at the top, and a market leader.”
The “strategically clever” Jane Glass is “one of the very best people in a criminal firm to conduct cases. She is outstanding,” informs one source. Another reports that “she has a very good instinct and an extremely good ability to support clients.” Glass has experience advising and representing clients under investigation by a range of agencies, including HMRC and the SFO. Interviewees frequently praise her work ethic and dedication. An observer adds: “She has a very good nose for what is going to matter in due course and chases every point until she’s certain there is nothing in it for the client.”
Brian Spiro is “very measured, calm and experienced, someone you can build a relationship of confidence with very quickly,” one source reports. Spiro is experienced in handling sensitive matters for wealthy and high-profile individuals. His main areas of expertise include fraud and regulatory matters and business crime litigation. One interviewee describes him as “very laid back with a good international practice. He is calm and assured. A tremendously confidence-inspiring solicitor.”
One source says that Harry Travers is “very good. He always has a new angle on things. He is very innovative and imaginative.” Another market commentator says that he is “very thorough and explores every possible angle.” Travers has a wealth of experience in corruption and fraud matters, while he is also extremely well known for his expertise in advising and representing clients involved in tax investigations.