Charles acts for a number of major energy industry contractors in both the onshore and offshore sectors. Charles has significant experience of dispute resolution in these areas with particular expertise in large scale, often technical arbitrations.
He also assists clients with drafting and negotiation of contracts, including for construction and engineering projects (EPC/EPIC) and joint ventures.
Recent experience includes:
- acting for an FPSO owner (to be employed offshore South Africa) in an arbitration concerning disputes with the field operator
- providing advice ‘on the ground’ to a pipeline contractor undertaking an extensive project in Nigeria
- conducting an LCIA arbitration on behalf of a pipeline contractor regarding, inter alia, time and cost overruns encountered on a major project in West Africa
- drafting and advising on the terms of a Master Services Agreement to be implemented between a major multi service contractor and specialist sub-contractor.
"An excellent team player with an extremely robust handle on the manifold complexities of the energy sector... One to watch" Chambers & Partners, 2008
Charles draws on his dispute resolution experience to assist clients with general commercial disputes.
He has extensive experience of international arbitration, High Court proceedings, mediation and other forms of alternative dispute resolution procedures.
Charles has experience in complex, multi-jurisdiction fraud proceedings, utilising many of the interim remedies available from the High Court including freezing injunctions and Norwich Pharmacal type disclosure orders.
"A rising star who is described by clients as extremely bright and practical and always clear in his advice." Chambers & Partners, 2009
Charles regularly advises both insurers and assureds in relation to marine and energy risks. In particular he brings his experience in the energy sector to technical coverage and claims issues.
Recent experience includes:
- advising reinsurers on arbitration proceedings involving ship repair liability issues
- advising an assured on claims for loss/damage to a pipeline under an all risks policy
- providing advice on issues arising out of windstorms in the Gulf of Mexico under energy package policies.