We are delighted to announce that six of our barristers have been ranked in Chambers and Partners’ High Net Worth Guide 2026. Ian Clarke KC, Clifford Darton KC, Julia Beer, Lydia Pemberton, George Woodhead and Chris de Beneducci have all been ranked in the Chancery: Traditional category for their continued impressive work within this area.
Ian Clarke KC, marks his eighth year ranked in Chambers and Partners High Net Worth Guide. One referee described Ian as “probably the brainiest person I know. He is also really nice to deal with, good on paper and on his feet.” Ian has also been highlighted as “formidable. He is one of the most intelligent men I have ever met.” “Ian provided insightful and timely advice in relation to a complicated case. He was a pleasure to work with.”
Clifford Darton KC, now five years ranked, has been characterised as “very strong in every facet required. He is as good on his feet as he is on paper and never loses sight of the wider commercial picture. He is also fantastic with clients.” One referee stated “Clifford is our go-to silk. I can’t recommend him highly enough. He comes from an intellectual and analytical class of professionals. He is meticulous, but rapid in responding.”
Julia Beer has been ranked in the High Net Worth Guide for the fifth year. One referee described Julia as “exceptional. Her grasp of complex disputes is exceptional. She combines meticulous technical analysis with clear, strategic advice that clients can easily understand. She is always responsive and thoroughly prepared.” A further referee echoed this, describing Julia as “exceptional”, adding “She is tactically very astute, very aware of the commercial drivers and good on her feet. She is a good person to have in your corner.”
Julia has also been praised as “very knowledgeable, practical and personable. Her pleadings were well thought out and of a high standard.” and “Julia’s opinions and advice are clear, thorough and incredibly helpful.”
Lydia Pemberton has been ranked in the High Net Worth Guide for the second year. She has been recognised as “absolutely brilliant”, with one referee commenting: “Her approach with clients is second to none. She is a brilliant negotiator.” Another referee highlighted Lydia’s practical approach, stating: “Lydia Pemberton can be relied upon to provide clear, strong and pragmatic advice in disputes.”
George Woodhead now also two years ranked, has been described as “technically astute and his client care is excellent. The quality of his work is always exceptionally high. George navigates technical, complex and often urgent matters with ease. He is able to distil complex matters into easily digestible, lay-client-friendly advice.”
George has been praised as “realistic about his time estimates and fees, and is commercially aware when deciding on a strategy.” One referee described him as ” exceptional in his work with respect to client service, providing valuable technical advice.”
His commitment to client service was further recognised by another referee, who stated that George is “exceptional in his work with respect to client service, providing valuable technical advice.”
Chris de Beneducci, has now been ranked in the High Net Worth Guide for three years. One referee described Chris as “brilliant”, commenting “He provides very well-drafted pleadings. He also provides top-notch skeleton arguments that are crisp, concise and ordered.” Chris’ technical expertise and advocacy have also praised, with another referee describing him as having “excellent technical knowledge and advocacy skill. He argues his submissions clearly and competently.”
A further referee highlighted his Chris’s proactive approach, stating: “Chris has a real brain and he is very hands-on; he doesn’t just take instructions.”
Our congratulations go to Ian, Clifford, Julia, Lydia, George and Chris, as well as all other individuals ranked this year, and our thanks go to Chambers and Partners for their diligent research in compiling this year’s guide. A special thank you to our referees for taking the time to provide valuable feedback.
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Outside of these hours and in cases of an urgency, please contact Paul Bunting on +44 (0) 7971 843023 or Darren Madle on +44 (0) 7769 714399.
