Christopher Charlton Partner

Partner
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Chris advises on high-stakes corporate and commercial disputes for international corporate clients, financial institutions, family offices and entrepreneurs, in the English Courts and international arbitration.

Chris’ practice covers all major areas of commercial law, including banking and finance, funds, insurance/reinsurance, shareholder disputes, technology, cryptocurrency, fraud and insolvency. Chris has a wealth of experience advising on post-M&A claims, directors’ duties, derivative actions and unfair prejudice petitions. 

The majority of Chris’ work is cross-border. He has substantial experience with issues of jurisdiction and enforcement, including for and against SOEs, and in coordinating international litigation strategy working with leading law firms around the world. He has a particular interest in transatlantic disputes, having previously been seconded to a leading New York law firm.    

His recent instructions have included disputes across a wide range of sectors, including financial services, private equity, hospitality, telecommunications, cryptocurrency, sport, commodities trading and construction.   

Chris is a qualified solicitor-advocate. He is ranked as a Next Generation Partner in the Legal 500 2024, praised for his “highly effective” presentation of cases and “excellent technical knowledge”.

Expertise

Recent work

PGA European Tour

Representing PGA European Tour in securing the dismissal of high-profile disciplinary appeals by 12 pro golfers on the grounds of restraint of trade, breach of competition law, and procedural unfairness.

Thirteen Bitcoin developers

Successfully defending 13 individual Bitcoin developers in a preliminary issue trial in several different claims relating to Dr Craig Wright and concerning the identity of (and Dr Wright’s claim to be) the pseudonymous inventor of Bitcoin, “Satoshi Nakamoto”.

Travelport Limited

Acting for a fintech business in a speedy trial relating to the operation of a Material Adverse Effect clause as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic in a Share Purchase Agreement.

A satellite communications business

Acting for a satellite communications firm in confidential arbitration proceedings regarding pricing under a long-term commercial contract.

JD Williams & Co Limited.

Acting for JD Williams in relation to a substantial commercial dispute with an insurer regarding the allocation of liabilities in respect of a substantial consumer insurance redress scheme.

A state immunity dispute

Advising an UHNW individual in relation to issues of state immunity arising under the State Immunity Act 1978.

A cryptocurrency business

Acting for the founder of a cryptocurrency business in relation to disputes concerning the ownership and ongoing governance of the business venture.

See all

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What people are saying

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"Chris Charlton is strikingly good. He knows how to cut through masses of information and present matters in a highly effective manner."

The Legal 500 2025

"Chris Charlton: experienced litigator with excellent technical knowledge. "

The Legal 500 2025

"Chris Charlton is a truly great young Partner. He can deal with the most demanding clients and the most challenging cases, and he does so with the calm authority of a man with a much greyer beard. A future superstar in the litigation world who I expect to be among the heavyweights for years to come."

The Legal 500 2024

"Christopher Charlton is fantastic. He is everything you would want in a partner. Always available. Sharp intellect. Easy to work with. Gets to the point."

The Legal 500 2023