The appointment strengthens the commercial disputes practice and builds on a litigation capability of more than 100 dispute resolution specialists, further strengthening Bristows’ expertise in large and complex mandates. 

Laura Steen, a leading expert in commercial disputes, will be joining the firm on 1 September 2026. Laura has a superb reputation for handling complex commercial litigation and represents individuals and companies in a wide range of disputes, including issues arising from international and cross-border commercial contracts, competition issues, trusts, fraud, directors’ duties and contentious insolvency. Laura also has a long-standing strategic focus on clients operating in the firm’s key sectors, technology and life sciences. 

Laura has experience representing both claimants and defendants in relation to pre-litigation strategy and in large-scale commercial litigation before the English High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. Laura also has deep expertise in representing individuals and companies during investigations and prosecutions before a number of regulators, including the Serious Fraud Office (SFO). 

Laura Steen is named as a key lawyer for Commercial Litigation Premium in the Legal 500 with clients remarking that “Laura Steen is an excellent practitioner with a great mix of intellect and people skills. Laura’s client communication is first-rate” and that she is “highly intelligent, committed to providing excellent service to clients and a delight to work with”. It is this unique mix of deep expertise, excellent client relations and her commitment to working as part of a thriving commercial disputes practice that has brought Laura to Bristows. 

Commenting on Laura’s arrival, Anna Cook head of our commercial disputes practice said: “We are delighted that Laura will be joining us and warmly welcome her to the team. This hire reflects the continued growth of our commercial disputes practice and strengthens our ability to advise clients with complex business issues and commercial problems. Laura brings a strong track record in commercial litigation and dispute resolution, together with first-rate experience in insolvency, investigations, fraud, corporate governance and regulatory issues.” 

Steve Smith, Joint Managing Partner, noted: “Laura will be an outstanding addition to the firm’s heavyweight litigation offering. Her track record advising on complex commercial disputes and her recognised reputation in the market, coupled with an approach aligned with our firm’s vision, makes her an excellent fit for Bristows. We are so pleased to welcome her to the partnership as the firm continues to grow and expand its capabilities.”

Laura commented: “I am thrilled to be joining Bristows at such an exciting time in its growth. My experience is a great fit for Bristows’ vibrant litigation practice and innovative clients. It will be a privilege to work with this group of excellent lawyers, to contribute to the fantastic work the team is already doing and to be part of the wonderful culture that makes Bristows what it is.”

Bristows is known for its outstanding reputation in technology and life sciences, including acting on some of the largest commercial disputes in the market. With more than 100 dispute resolution specialists, deep expertise in intellectual property, competition, media, corporate and commercial disputes, Bristows has the expertise to help clients in their most difficult circumstances.

For more information, please contact:
katherine.farrell@bristow.com | +44 20 7400 8000