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Expertise

Biography

Claire is a Partner in the firm’s Dispute Resolution team, specialising in resolving contentious corporate and commercial disputes, in the UK and internationally, with over a decade of experience. 

She acts across a broad range of business disputes, handling litigation, arbitration and mediation matters. Her work often spans across sectors including warehousing, transport, manufacturing, real estate, finance, education and technology. 

Background and Expertise

Claire’s work frequently involves issues arising from sale and purchase agreements, mergers and acquisitions, and breaches of senior-level post-termination restrictive covenants.  

She has extensive experience in shareholder disputes, unfair prejudice petitions, breaches of directors’ duties, and disputes concerning framework or supply of goods and services agreements, including those with multi-jurisdictional elements. 

Claire is also experienced in regulatory and finance disputes, particularly those involving short-term bridging loans. Her practice regularly includes advising on earn-out provisions, breach of warranty claims and other post-termination obligations, acting for both companies and former directors and often resulting in obtaining or defending injunctive relief proceedings. 

Claire’s clients range from sole traders and SMEs to large private and public companies, operating across sectors such as warehousing, transport, manufacturing, real estate, finance, education and technology. Recognised as a Recommended Lawyer in The Legal 500, she is regarded for her pragmatic, commercially driven advice, her ability to navigate contentious issues with clarity and strategic insight, and her commitment to achieving effective outcomes for her clients.  

Specialisations and Personal Achievements

 Claire often works under alternative fee and funding arrangements, taking instructions on a contingent basis where appropriate. She also considers, on a case-by-case basis, instructions relating to TLATA (Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996) claims and contentious respondent insolvency matters. 

In addition to her client work, Claire serves as the Firm’s Complaints Officer, reflecting her commitment to client care and maintaining the highest professional standards. 

Recommended Dispute Resolution Lawyer Legal 500

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I was recently presented with a false claim from a third party and therefore I looked for a competent solicitor to bring forward the facts about my case. Having looked at other local options and deciding they were not suitable I contacted Claire Hughes. My first impressions of Claire during my initial consultation were that she was very professional and knowledgeable. She clearly grasped how to address this situation and dealt with my matter quickly and efficiently, dismissing all unsubstantiated claims made against me.
Boris Amado
I would like to express my thanks for a brilliant job, your hard work has been much appreciated, and we're hugely impressed by your understanding of the technical issues of the case which I am certain was instrumental in undermining the other legal team.
Barry Hellen
I would like to express my thanks for a brilliant job, your hard work has been much appreciated, and we're hugely impressed by your understanding of the technical issues of the case which I am certain was instrumental in undermining the other legal team.
Client
Claire is one of those few people who has a natural flair and intuition for her chosen vocation. This couples with a sharp intellect and ability to communicate complex legal nuances in simple language. Claire encapsulated all of the above when summing up the Courts decision in my case, "Well that was a slam-dunk with bells on". Thank you for the very fast response to the trial and your kind words, help and support leading up to / during the trial.
Barry Hellen