Anton Dudnikov

Professional practice

Anton is an experienced advocate, recognised in the legal directories for his expertise in commercial litigation, civil fraud, international arbitration, energy, and banking & finance. He has been described as a “superb advocate and draftsman, absolutely top-notch”; “technically excellent, fiercely bright and commercially shrewd, he is a real star who zeroes in on the killer points”; “an utterly reliable and polished advocate”; and “one of the brightest junior barristers at the bar”.

Many of Anton’s cases are substantial, high-profile disputes, almost invariably with an international element. He frequently acts for and against sovereign states and state entities, and has extensive experience of enforcement proceedings and challenges to arbitral awards. His instructions include acting for an oil and gas plc in a US$1.7 billion enforcement action against India; for the Republic of Cuba and the former Cuban central bank in sovereign debt recovery proceedings; for a minister of a foreign government in relation to a US$1.6 billion claim in conspiracy (one of The Lawyer’s ‘Top 20’ cases); and for an affiliate of Shell plc, in anti-suit injunction proceedings concerning a US$1 billion claim in the Nigerian courts.

Heavy fraud litigation is a major part of Anton’s practice. He has appeared in some of the largest trials in the Commercial Court, such as:

9-week National Bank Trust trial: US$900 million claim against former directors and majority owners of a bank concerning related-party lending, concealment of bad debts, and manipulation of the bank’s accounts (one of The Lawyer’s ‘Top 20’ cases).
8-week Avonwick trial: US$1+ billion dispute between Ukrainian businessmen, including a claim in deceit and various cross-claims (another ‘Top 20’ case).
12-week Otkritie trial: US$175 million claim relating to a securities fraud and money-laundering. Anton also appeared in a subsequent, related trial in the Supreme Court of Gibraltar.

In addition to his trial experience, Anton regularly acts and advises in connection with applications for worldwide freezing orders and ancillary relief, anti-suit injunctions, contempt proceedings, and post-judgment enforcement measures. He is frequently instructed against silks, has appeared as sole counsel in the Court of Appeal, and has cross-examined witnesses on matters ranging from Swiss, Cuban and Ukrainian law to forensic accountancy and asset-tracing.

Alongside his court work, Anton has a busy arbitration practice. He is ranked in Band 1 in international arbitration by Chambers & Partners, and has wide experience of arbitral proceedings seated in London and abroad, as well as court applications under the Arbitration Act 1996. Anton recently appeared in a heavy ICC arbitration in Paris; and a 5-week, remote LCIA hearing in London before Sir Christopher Clarke, Sir Rupert Jackson and Sir Stephen Tomlinson. Over a number of years, he acted for a foreign government in a dispute with a UAE consortium, described in Global Arbitration Review as “one of the highest-value gas disputes in the Middle East, with claims valued at over US$39 billion”.

What others say

Anton is recommended in Chambers & Partners for Commercial Dispute Resolution, International Arbitration and Civil Fraud; and in Legal 500 for Commercial Litigation, International Arbitration, Banking & Finance, Energy and Civil Fraud. Comments have included:

“He is a superb advocate and draftsman, absolutely top-notch.”

“Technically excellent, fiercely bright and commercially shrewd, he is a real star who zeroes in on the killer points.”

“He is an utterly reliable and polished advocate”

“Anton is fiercely intelligent. His advocacy is very composed, measured and lucid. When faced with complex issues, it is obvious that judges take comfort from the clarity of Anton’s submissions.”

“His drafting and advocacy turned what was an incredibly difficult situation for our client into a strategically strong position.”

“He is super bright, he knows the law and authorities inside out, and his drafting is impeccable.”

“Anton’s drafting is phenomenal; he cuts to the heart of the issue in a clear and concise way. He is unbelievably bright, and has consistently provided first-rate strategic and tactical guidance to the client.”

“Anton is extremely clever and organised. He is very well prepared, persuasive and confident on his feet in court, reading judges well and demonstrating very good judgement on which points are key and will play well. He is fantastic to have on your side as he pretty much thinks of everything.”

“Anton is extremely capable and easy to work with. He grasps issues quickly and has the ability to explain them in lucid fashion.”

“Extremely knowledgeable of financial issues, great legal mind.”

“Anton is ferociously intelligent but also a pleasure to work with.”

“He has a lot of trial experience, so he can see how things will play out in court.”

“Anton combines being very astute, thorough and user-friendly with being a tenacious advocate who develops creative arguments.”

“Anton’s ability to draft cogently and persuasively is second to none.”

“A very effective barrister who is superb on his feet and really fights for his client’s case.”

“One of the brightest junior barristers at the bar.”

“Ruthlessly efficient and extremely smart, Anton is responsive and pro-active with an ability to get quickly and effectively into the detail of a matter in a way that is second to none.”

“Phenomenally clever on the legal side. He also has a very good sense for the more strategic aspects.”

“Astute analysis of issues and outstanding advocacy skills.”

“He has a great eye for detail, and therefore is ideally suited for work on complex fraud matters.”

“An excellent advocate and tactician.”

“He’s incredibly hard-working, proactive and is a prodigious draftsman.”

“Hands-on, commercial and analytical.”

“Very pleasant to work with, very clever, very strategic and very thoughtful.”

“Clever, thoughtful and tactically insightful; he is a junior going places.”

“Highly responsive and very alert to the strategic issues as well as the legal ones.”

“Has been cultivating an excellent reputation in the market, attracting praise for his superb advocacy skills and insightful analysis of matters.”

“An increasingly prominent junior barrister who is frequently involved in high-profile civil fraud claims at first instance and appellate level.”

“Turns around his work with effortless ease and with alarming attention to detail as well as seeing the bigger picture.”

Anton was shortlisted for International Arbitration Junior of the Year at the Chambers UK Bar Awards, and appears in Who’s Who Legal: Future Leaders (both litigation and arbitration). He was named as one of the ‘Rising Stars’ in Who’s Who Legal UK Bar 2018, which notes that he is “lauded as an ‘incredibly productive, hard-working and user-friendly’ arbitration counsel who is ‘a pleasure to work with, especially under severe time pressure’. One source comments that Dudnikov is ‘the sort of lawyer every corporation should have’”.

In 2016, Anton was selected by Legal Week as one of the ‘Stars of the Bar’ – “ten most promising barristers of ten years call and under”. The article noted: “Dudnikov’s careful understanding, teamwork, drive, legal acumen and strong advocacy skills will make him a popular choice as a junior from leaders both inside and outside his set, one from which firms and clients can only benefit”.

Examples of recent cases

The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd v Sunlink Energies and Resources Ltd [2023] EWHC 3135 (Comm). Appearing as sole counsel on an urgent application for an anti-suit injunction to enforce an ICC arbitration agreement. The defendant was restrained from continuing with its c. US$1 billion claim in the Nigerian courts. The injunction was subsequently made final, in mandatory form, and the Court granted declaratory relief, at a hearing in December 2023 (at which Anton appeared with Ben Juratowitch KC).

CRF I Limited v (1) Banco Nacional de Cuba; (2) The Republic of Cuba [2023] EWHC 774 (Comm). Acting (with Alison Macdonald KC) for the Republic of Cuba and the former Cuban central bank in proceedings brought by an alleged assignee of c. €72 million of Cuban sovereign debt. Anton’s role at the trial in early 2023 included cross-examination of a Cuban law expert and oral closing submissions on Cuban law. The jurisdiction challenge brought by Cuba was upheld, the Court finding that the bank had no capacity (or authority) to consent to an assignment of the guarantee issued by Cuba.

PJSC Otkritie Bank Financial Corporation v Mints [2022] 1 WLR 3099. Acting (with Nathan Pillow KC) for a bank in a US$800+ million fraud claim arising out of a purchase of corporate bonds and other transactions. The case has spawned a number of reported judgments, including [2022] 1 WLR 3099 (operation of issue estoppel against a non-party to arbitral proceedings); [2021] EWHC 692 (Comm) (jurisdiction challenge); [2020] EWHC 204 (Comm) (application to discharge a WFO). Anton also appeared in a related LCIA arbitration, which culminated in a 5-week liability trial before a Tribunal comprising Sir Christopher Clarke, Sir Rupert Jackson and Sir Stephen Tomlinson.

Ebury Partners Belgium SA/NV v Technical Touch BV [2022] EWHC 2927 (Comm). Acting as sole counsel on a successful application for an interim anti-suit injunction, restraining the pursuit of proceedings brought in Belgium. This was one of the earliest reported cases in which the Court exercised its newly available powers (following Brexit) to grant anti-suit relief in respect of proceedings in an EU member state. The injunction included a mandatory element, requiring the Belgian proceedings to be discontinued.

Hays v Bloomfield Investments LLC [2023] 1 Lloyd’s Rep 519. Acting (with Ricky Diwan KC) for a Californian entrepreneur in challenges to LCIA arbitration awards brought under sections 67, 68 and 72 of the Arbitration Act 1996 (and an associated application for an extension of time under section 80(5)).

Heritage Travel & Tourism Ltd v Windhorst (2023). Acting (with Nathan Pillow KC) in contempt proceedings relating to the enforcement of a €172 million judgment debt.

Dynasty Company for Oil and Gas Trading Ltd v Dr Ashti Hawrami [2022] QB 246 – one of The Lawyer’s ‘Top 20’ cases. Acting (with Graham Dunning KC) for the former Minister of Natural Resources of a foreign government in a US$1.6 billion claim arising from a failed purchase of an interest in oil and gas blocks in Iraq. Following a 4-day hearing, which involved cross-examination of experts on the Iraqi Constitution, the jurisdiction challenge brought by Anton’s client was upheld on the basis of s. 14(2) of the State Immunity Act 1978 and forum non conveniens.

Verlox International Ltd v Antoshin [2022] EWHC 2667 (Comm). Acting as sole counsel for a major chemical holding corporation, a defendant to a high-value claim brought by a Belize company.

Avonwick Holdings Ltd v Dargamo Holdings Ltd [2021] EWCA Civ 1149; [2020] EWHC 1844 (Comm) – another of The Lawyer’s ‘Top 20’ cases. Acting (with David Foxton KC) for a Ukrainian politician and businessman in a US$1+ billion dispute concerning a metals business and other assets. Anton cross-examined an expert on Ukrainian law at the 8-week trial in late 2019. A significant point of law, relating to the application of unjust enrichment principles in the context of a valid and subsisting contract, was determined by the Court of Appeal in mid-2021 (Anton was led by Jonathan Crow KC on the appeal).

Cairn Energy plc v The Republic of India. Acting (with David Joseph KC) for a UK-based energy company in an action to enforce a US$1.7 billion arbitral award against India (made under the UK-India bilateral investment treaty).

Vale SA v Steinmetz. Acting as sole counsel for a Liechtenstein foundation and its subsidiary on an application in the Commercial Court relating to tracing the proceeds of a US$500 million payment. The substantive action concerned iron ore mining licences from the Republic of Guinea which the claimants alleged were tainted by bribery and corruption. See also [2020] EWHC 3501 (Comm) (acting, with Paul Stanley KC, on an application for summary judgment).

National Bank Trust v Yurov – one of The Lawyer’s ‘Top 20’ cases. Acting (with Nathan Pillow KC) for the claimant bank in a 9-week trial of fraud claims against the bank’s former directors and shareholders. In a 580-page judgment, the Court found the principal defendants to have orchestrated a scheme involving concealment of bad debts, related-party lending, and falsification of the bank’s accounts. Anton’s role at the trial included cross-examination of a forensic accountant in relation to the tracing of funds through complex offshore structures and the calculation of the bank’s loss. Judgment for c. US$900 million was entered in February 2020: see [2020] EWHC 100 (Comm); [2020] EWHC 757 (Comm). Successfully resisted an application to discharge a worldwide freezing order earlier in the proceedings: [2016] EWHC 1913 (Comm).

Pearl Petroleum Co Ltd v Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq. Long-running (now settled) LCIA dispute in connection with the development and exploitation of gas fields in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, described in Global Arbitration Review as “one of the highest-value gas disputes in the Middle East, with claims valued at over US$39 billion”. Anton represented the Government, led by Graham Dunning KC.

Arbitration & related court applications

Anton is recognised as a leading junior in this field by Chambers & Partners (Band 1) and Legal 500. He also appears in Who’s Who Legal: Arbitration – Future Leaders. He has experience of various institutional rules (including LCIA, ICC and UNCITRAL) and is equally comfortable working with and without leaders, and as co-counsel with firms of arbitration practitioners.

Anton’s notable instructions include:

acting (with Ricky Diwan KC) in a Paris-seated arbitration (ICC);
acting (with Nathan Pillow KC) for a bank in a claim arising out of an alleged bond fraud: 5-week liability trial before a Tribunal comprising Sir Christopher Clarke, Sir Rupert Jackson and Sir Stephen Tomlinson (LCIA);
acting (with Graham Dunning KC) for the Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq in a dispute with a UAE consortium, described in Global Arbitration Review as “one of the highest-value gas disputes in the Middle East, with claims valued at over US$39 billion” (LCIA);
acting (with Graham Dunning KC) for a shareholder in a BVI company seeking relief for unfair prejudice under s. 184I of the BVI Business Companies Act 2004 (LCIA);
advising the seller of a leading brokerage business in connection with a dispute about earn-out provisions in a share purchase agreement (expert determination before one of the ‘Big Four’ accounting firms);
acting (with Vernon Flynn KC) in an arbitration concerned with brand licensing arrangements, which settled in a deal estimated to be worth US$225 million (ICC);
acting (as sole counsel, against a silk from a well-known commercial set) for an investor in a claim relating to a property development project in Moscow (LCIA);
acting (with Graham Dunning KC) in a dispute between publicly listed international oil companies relating to a major offshore development project (ICC);
acting (as sole counsel) in a dispute between companies operating in the pharmaceutical industry (LCIA);
acting (with Richard Millett KC) in proceedings relating to a bank restructuring (LCIA); acting (with Geraldine Andrews KC) in an arbitration involving issues of South African law and state immunity (ICC);
acting (with Graham Dunning KC) in an arbitration in Dubai, involving a family feud and the division of a worldwide portfolio of assets (ICC); and
acting (with Geraldine Andrews KC) in a commodities arbitration relating to the supply of alumina (LCIA).

Anton also has considerable experience of arbitration-related proceedings in the Commercial Court. This includes applications under s. 44 of the Arbitration Act 1996, challenges to arbitral awards, anti-suit relief, and the enforcement of awards and peremptory orders. For example:

The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd v Sunlink Energies and Resources Ltd [2023] EWHC 3135 (Comm). Appearing as sole counsel on an urgent application for an anti-suit injunction to enforce an ICC arbitration agreement. The defendant was restrained from continuing with its c. US$1 billion claim in the Nigerian courts. The injunction was subsequently made final, in mandatory form, and the Court granted declaratory relief, at a hearing in December 2023 (at which Anton appeared with Ben Juratowitch KC).
Hays v Bloomfield Investments LLC [2023] 1 Lloyd’s Rep 519. Acting (with Ricky Diwan KC) for a Californian entrepreneur in challenges to LCIA arbitration awards brought under sections 67, 68 and 72 of the Arbitration Act 1996 (and an associated application for an extension of time under section 80(5)).
Cairn Energy plc v The Republic of India. Acting (with David Joseph KC) for a UK-based energy company in an action to enforce a US$1.7 billion arbitral award against India (UNCITRAL award; UK-India bilateral investment treaty).
Enforcement of ICSID award. Advising a state in connection with enforcement action in the Commercial Court in respect of a US$100+ million ICSID award.
X v Y. Acting (as sole counsel) for a shareholder in a strategic mining project in East Africa in an application for an anti-suit injunction relating to an ICC arbitration.
A v B. Acting (with David Joseph KC) on an urgent application for anti-suit relief relating to an LCIA arbitration.
PAO Tatneft v Ukraine [2018] EWHC 1797 (Comm). Acting (with Philip Edey KC) for Ukraine in a jurisdiction challenge on state immunity grounds. The proceedings related to the enforcement of a US$112 million arbitral award for breach of the Russia-Ukraine bilateral investment treaty. In the same proceedings, Anton appeared (as sole counsel) in the Court of Appeal at a hearing concerned with Tatneft’s application for security for costs.
PCL v X [2015] 1 WLR 3948. Acting (with Graham Dunning KC) for a foreign government in a successful jurisdiction challenge in the Commercial Court, made on the basis of s. 12 of the State Immunity Act 1978.
Pearl Petroleum Co Ltd v Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq [2016] 4 WLR 2. Acting (with Graham Dunning KC) in Commercial Court proceedings relating to enforcement, under s. 42 of the Arbitration Act 1996, of a peremptory order made against a foreign government.
Telenor East Holdings II AS v Altimo Holdings & Investments Ltd [2011] Arb LR 9. Acting (with Huw Davies KC) in an application under s. 44 of the Arbitration Act 1996 brought to restrain a corporate acquisition worth in excess of US$6 billion.
A v B State. Advising, in the context of an arbitration against a sovereign state, on (i) enforcement of a peremptory order; (ii) enforcement of a partial final award; and (iii) obtaining a freezing order and other relief in aid of enforcement.
C v D State. Advising on the enforcement of an UNCITRAL arbitration award against a sovereign state made in proceedings brought under a bilateral investment treaty. The case raised complex issues, including whether an ostensibly separate legal entity is an organ of the state; the scope and application of the ‘commercial purposes’ exception in s. 13(4) of the State Immunity Act 1978; and the effect of the Diplomatic Privileges Act 1964.
X v Y. Advising on an application for an injunction under s. 44 of the Arbitration Act 1996 in the context of a dispute relating to a letter of credit.

Banking & financial services

Anton is recognised as a leading junior in this field by Legal 500.

In CRF I Limited v (1) Banco Nacional de Cuba; (2) The Republic of Cuba [2023] EWHC 774 (Comm), Anton is acting (with Alison Macdonald KC) for the Republic of Cuba and the former Cuban central bank in proceedings brought by an alleged assignee of c. €72 million of Cuban sovereign debt. Anton’s role at the trial in early 2023 included cross-examination of a Cuban law expert and oral closing submissions on Cuban law. The jurisdiction challenge brought by Cuba was upheld, the Court finding that the bank had no capacity (or authority) to consent to an assignment of the guarantee issued by Cuba.

Anton is also currently acting (with Nathan Pillow KC) for a bank claiming damages in excess of US$800 million in connection with transactions involving the replacement of loans with corporate bonds alleged by the claimants to be worthless. A jurisdiction challenge brought by three defendants was defeated in the first half of 2021: PJSC Otkritie Bank Financial Corporation v Mints [2021] EWHC 692 (Comm). There have been a number of reported judgments on other issues: see, e.g., [2022] 1 WLR 3099; [2020] EWHC 204 (Comm); [2019] EWHC 2061 (Comm). Anton also appeared in a related LCIA arbitration: a 5-week trial before a Tribunal comprising Sir Christopher Clarke, Sir Rupert Jackson and Sir Stephen Tomlinson.

Anton has recently represented an asset management company in a claim relating to derivatives and structured product trades: FM Capital Partners Ltd v Marino & others [2018] EWHC 1768 (Comm).

Other instructions include an advice for a major bank on the merits of defending a multi-million pound negligence claim brought by the subject of an erroneous credit reference, and for a ‘master merchant’ providing online processing facilities for payments made using MasterCard, in a dispute concerning the terms of a merchant agreement.

Anton has acted for and advised high street lenders in a variety of disputes with consumers and business customers. He has appeared in mortgage repossession hearings and on applications to obtain final charging orders and orders for sale. He has advised an Isle of Man company in relation to a claim arising out of a well-publicised collapse of a fund that attracted more than £60 million from individual investors, and acted for a major UK bank in connection with a Spanish law share pledge securing a large corporate loan.

Civil fraud & asset recovery

Anton is recognised as a leading junior in this field by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500. He is regularly instructed in high-value, complex civil fraud cases. He has extensive experience of trials (including a recent 33-day trial in the Commercial Court and a 5-week remote LCIA arbitration), interim applications (including freezing orders, Norwich Pharmacal and other disclosure orders, and cross-examination on assets), contempt proceedings, and post-judgment measures for enforcement and asset recovery.

Anton has appeared in some of the heaviest fraud trials in the Commercial Court in recent years. In National Bank Trust v Yurov, he represented the claimant bank at a 9-week trial of its claims against former directors and shareholders. The Court upheld the claims and found the principal defendants to have orchestrated a scheme involving concealment of bad debts, related-party lending, and falsification of the bank’s accounts. Anton’s role at the trial included cross-examination of a forensic accountant in relation to the tracing of funds through complex offshore structures and the calculation of the bank’s loss. Judgment for c. US$900 million was entered in February 2020: see [2020] EWHC 100 (Comm) and [2020] EWHC 757 (Comm). An application to discharge a worldwide freezing order was successfully resisted earlier in the proceedings: [2016] EWHC 1913 (Comm).

In Avonwick Holdings Ltd v Dargamo Holdings Ltd, Anton represented (with David Foxton KC) a Ukrainian politician and businessman in a US$1+ billion dispute concerning a metals business and other assets. Anton cross-examined an expert on Ukrainian law at the 8-week trial in late 2019. A significant point of law, relating to the application of unjust enrichment principles in the context of a valid and subsisting contract, was determined by the Court of Appeal in mid- 2021 (Anton was led by Jonathan Crow KC on the appeal). See [2021] EWCA Civ 1149; [2020] EWHC 1844 (Comm).

PJSC Otkritie Bank Financial Corporation v Mints is a claim for US$800+ million concerning an alleged fraud involving the purchase of corporate bonds. Anton is acting (with Nathan Pillow KC) for the claimants, who obtained worldwide freezing relief in June 2019. This was upheld at the return date, and a subsequent discharge application by one of the defendants was dismissed: [2020] EWHC 204 (Comm); [2019] EWHC 2061 (Comm). A jurisdiction challenge by three other defendants was subsequently defeated: [2021] EWHC 692 (Comm). Anton also appeared in a related LCIA arbitration: a 5-week trial before a Tribunal comprising Sir Christopher Clarke, Sir Rupert Jackson and Sir Stephen Tomlinson.

Anton is regularly instructed as sole counsel (including against silks). He recently appeared alone (against a KC and two juniors) on a heavy application in the Commercial Court for ancillary disclosure under a freezing order; for permission to enforce the order abroad; for letters of authority to be granted in respect of certain banks; and for cross-examination on asset disclosure. The underlying claim was for c. €60 million, and the application was heard over 3 days.

In Vale SA v Steinmetz, Anton acted as sole counsel for a Liechtenstein foundation and its subsidiary on an application in the Commercial Court for orders relating to a tracing exercise concerned with the proceeds of a US$500 million payment. The substantive action related to iron ore mining licences from the Republic of Guinea which the claimants alleged were tainted by bribery and corruption. The damages sought were in excess of US$1.8 billion. See also [2020] EWHC 3501 (Comm) (acting, with Paul Stanley KC, on an application for summary judgment).

Anton has also represented an investment vehicle of the Libyan sovereign wealth fund against its former CEO and his associates. The Court upheld claims in bribery, breach of fiduciary duty and dishonest assistance: FM Capital Partners Ltd v Marino & others [2018] EWHC 1768 (Comm). At the trial Anton cross-examined an expert on Swiss law. There were various interlocutory hearings, including unsuccessful attempts by the principal defendant to release frozen proprietary assets: [2016] EWCA Civ 1301. Anton was also instructed (with Tom Smith KC) in related bankruptcy proceedings in the Chancery Division: [2017] EWHC 3458 (Ch).

Another substantial fraud case has been a 12-week trial before Eder J in the Commercial Court: Otkritie v Urumov [2014] EWHC 191 (Comm). Anton was led by Steven Berry KC in proceedings brought by a bank against former employees, members of their families, and offshore vehicles involved in laundering the proceeds of fraud. The bank’s claims in deceit, conspiracy, dishonest assistance and knowing receipt (totalling about US$175 million) were upheld. In the middle of trial, some of the defendants made an unsuccessful expedited appeal: see [2013] EWCA Civ 1196.

Following the Otkritie trial, Anton was instructed in several enforcement proceedings, including in relation to the committal of various individuals to prison for contempt of Court; an application (as sole counsel) for the disclosure of documents to the City of London Police and Crown Prosecution Service; and applications for the sale of properties in St John’s Wood belonging to two of the defendants. In addition, there was an appeal (successfully resisted with Nathan Pillow KC) by a non-party against an order for committal to prison for 20 months: Otkritie v Olessia Jemai [2016] EWCA Civ 1316. Anton has also appeared as sole counsel on an ex parte application in the Commercial Court, seeking worldwide freezing and proprietary relief against a Bermudan company and its CEO, resident in Ukraine.

Anton has acted in proceedings against a well-known City fund, alleged to be vicariously liable for losses of more than US$100 million caused by their dishonest (former) employee: Otkritie Capital International Ltd v Threadneedle Asset Management Ltd [2017] EWCA Civ 274 (successfully resisting a strike-out application; the Court of Appeal’s decision is a significant authority on the application of the guidelines laid down in Aldi Stores v WSP Group plc [2008] 1 WLR 748).

In 2016, Anton was admitted to the Bar in the Supreme Court of Gibraltar, and has appeared there in a fraud trial and subsequent appeal to the local Court of Appeal in a case concerning the ownership of funds held in an offshore bank account.

Anton has also acted (with Richard Millett KC) for a former executive of an English company who was subject to a worldwide freezing order. Various provisions of the order were challenged in the Chancery Division: Cadogan Petroleum Plc v Tolley [2011] EWHC 2286 (Ch).

Anton has considerable experience of contempt proceedings in the Commercial Court and also in the Family Court.

Commercial dispute resolution

Anton is recognised as leading junior in this field by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500, and is named in Who’s Who Legal: Litigation – Future Leaders. He is frequently instructed in heavyweight commercial litigation, often with a strong international element.

Anton’s notable cases include:

The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd v Sunlink Energies and Resources Ltd [2023] EWHC 3135 (Comm). Appearing as sole counsel on an urgent application for an anti-suit injunction to enforce an ICC arbitration agreement. The defendant was restrained from continuing with its c. US$1 billion claim in the Nigerian courts. The injunction was subsequently made final, in mandatory form, and the Court granted declaratory relief, at a hearing in December 2023 (at which Anton appeared with Ben Juratowitch KC).
Ebury Partners Belgium SA/NV v Technical Touch BV [2022] EWHC 2927 (Comm). Acting as sole counsel on a successful application for an interim anti-suit injunction, restraining the pursuit of proceedings brought in Belgium. It was one of the earliest reported cases in which the Court exercised its newly available powers (following Brexit) to grant anti-suit relief in respect of proceedings in the courts of an EU member state. The injunction included a mandatory element, requiring the Belgian proceedings to be discontinued.
Dynasty Company for Oil and Gas Trading Ltd v Dr Ashti Hawrami [2022] QB 246 – one of The Lawyer’s ‘Top 20’ cases. Acting (with Graham Dunning KC) for the former Minister of Natural Resources of a foreign government in a US$1.6 billion claim arising from a failed purchase of an interest in oil and gas blocks in Iraq. Following a 4-day hearing, which involved cross-examination of experts on the Iraqi Constitution, the jurisdiction challenge brought by Anton’s client was upheld on the basis of s. 14(2) of the State Immunity Act 1978 and forum non conveniens.
Verlox International Ltd v Antoshin [2022] EWHC 2667 (Comm). Acting as sole counsel for a major chemical holding corporation, a defendant to a high-value claim brought by a Belize company.
Avonwick Holdings Ltd v Dargamo Holdings Ltd [2021] EWCA Civ 1149; [2020] EWHC 1844 (Comm) – another of The Lawyer’s ‘Top 20’ cases. Acting (with David Foxton KC) for a Ukrainian politician and businessman in a US$1+ billion dispute concerning a metals business and other assets. Anton cross-examined an expert on Ukrainian law at the 8-week trial in late 2019. A significant point of law, relating to the application of unjust enrichment principles in the context of a valid and subsisting contract, was determined by the Court of Appeal in mid-2021 (Anton was led by Jonathan Crow KC on the appeal).
CRF I Limited v (1) Banco Nacional de Cuba; (2) The Republic of Cuba [2023] EWHC 774 (Comm). Acting (with Alison Macdonald KC) for the Republic of Cuba and the former Cuban central bank in proceedings brought by an alleged assignee of c. €72 million of Cuban sovereign debt. Anton’s role at the trial in early 2023 included cross-examination of a Cuban law expert and oral closing submissions on Cuban law. The jurisdiction challenge brought by Cuba was upheld, the Court finding that the bank had no capacity (or authority) to consent to an assignment of the guarantee issued by Cuba.
PJSC Otkritie Bank Financial Corporation v Mints [2021] EWHC 692 (Comm); [2020] EWHC 204 (Comm); [2019] EWHC 2061 (Comm). Acting (with Nathan Pillow KC) for the claimants seeking damages of US$800+ million in connection with various transactions involving the replacement of loans with allegedly worthless corporate bonds. There have been multiple interlocutory hearings including, most recently, a jurisdiction challenge by three defendants which was successfully resisted.
Vale SA v Steinmetz [2020] EWHC 3501 (Comm). Acting (with Paul Stanley KC) in a US$1.8 billion dispute in connection with iron ore mining licences from the Republic of Guinea which the claimants alleged were tainted by bribery and corruption. In the same action, Anton appeared as sole counsel on an application in the Commercial Court for orders relating to a substantial tracing exercise.
Cairn Energy plc v The Republic of India. Acting (with David Joseph KC) for a UK-based energy company in an action to enforce a US$1.7 billion arbitral award against India (made under the UK-India bilateral investment treaty).
Dispute relating to force majeure / frustration (Covid-19). Acting (as sole counsel) for a Latvian airline in a Commercial Court claim relating to alleged frustration of an aircraft ‘wet lease’ by reason of travel restrictions imposed in response to the pandemic.
Confidential expert determination (before one of the ‘Big Four’ accounting firms). Advising the seller of a leading brokerage business in relation to a dispute about earn-out provisions in a share purchase agreement.
National Bank Trust v Yurov. Representing the claimant bank at a 9-week trial of its claims against former directors and shareholders. Judgment for c. US$900 million was entered in February 2020: see [2020] EWHC 100 (Comm) and [2020] EWHC 757 (Comm). Anton’s role at the trial included cross-examination of a forensic accountant in relation to the tracing of funds through complex offshore structures and the calculation of the bank’s loss.
Svetly Gorod LLC v OJSC Trust Investment Bank. Successful jurisdiction challenge in the Commercial Court in respect of a US$264 million claim.
FM Capital Partners Ltd v Marino & others [2018] EWHC 1768 (Comm). Representing an investment management company owned by the Libyan sovereign wealth fund in a claim against its former CEO and his associate. The Court upheld claims in bribery, breach of fiduciary duty and dishonest assistance.
Otkritie Capital International Ltd v Threadneedle Asset Management Ltd [2017] EWCA Civ 274. Acting (with Nathan Pillow KC) for a bank in successfully resisting an application to strike out a vicarious liability claim for more than US$100 million made against the former employer of a dishonest co-conspirator. The Court of Appeal’s decision is a significant authority on the application of the guidelines laid down in Aldi Stores v WSP Group plc [2008] 1 WLR 748.
PAO Tatneft v Ukraine [2018] EWHC 1797 (Comm). Acting (with Philip Edey KC) for Ukraine in a jurisdiction challenge on state immunity grounds. The proceedings related to the enforcement of a US$112 million arbitral award for breach of the Russia-Ukraine bilateral investment treaty. Following an application for security for Tatneft’s costs of the appeal, Anton appeared (as sole counsel) in the Court of Appeal in April 2019.
Robert Tchenguiz v Serious Fraud Office. Acting (with Joe Smouha KC and Alex Bailin KC) in the high-profile dispute between Robert Tchenguiz and the SFO. The damages claim in trespass and false imprisonment was for lost business following a dawn raid on the homes and business premises of the property entrepreneurs, Robert and Vincent Tchenguiz. Several interim applications are reported: [2013] EWHC 1578, [2014] EWHC 1103, and [2014] EWHC 1315. In the course of the proceedings, Anton appeared (on his own) against a KC and two juniors from One Essex Court in a heavy disclosure application in the Commercial Court.
X v Y. Acting (as sole counsel) for a shareholder in a strategic mining project in East Africa in a Commercial Court application for an anti-suit injunction.
A v B. Acting (with David Joseph KC) on an urgent application in the Commercial Court for anti-suit relief.
Samar Telecommunications Ltd v Tele Invest Ltd. Acting (with Vernon Flynn KC) in proceedings brought by the billionaire Wafic Said in the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands. The claim related to shares in a Syrian telecoms business.
Telenor East Holdings II AS v Altimo Holdings & Investments Ltd [2011] EWHC 735 (Comm). Acting (with Huw Davies KC) in an application for an interim injunction to restrain a corporate acquisition worth in excess of US$6 billion.
Avrora Fine Arts Investment Ltd v Christie, Manson & Woods Ltd [2012] EWHC 2198 (Ch). Representing the auction house in a 4-week Chancery Division trial about an oil painting sold as the work of Kustodiev, a Russian artist of the early 20th century.
Cadogan Petroleum Plc v Tolley [2011] EWHC 2286 (Ch). Led by Richard Millett KC in litigation between an oil & gas plc and one of its former directors.
Zimareva-Locke v Cetin. Appearing in the Chancery Division (as sole counsel, against a KC) on a return date for an interim injunction sought by a solicitor against one of her colleagues.
Eilon & Associates Ltd v EasyGroup IP Licensing Ltd [2011] EWHC 4094 (QB). Acting (as sole counsel) in a dispute between a corporate finance consultancy and the holder of the ‘easy’ brand.
X v Y. Advising a BVI company on the causes of action available against a former director, including breach of employment contract, breach of confidence and various economic torts.
Y v Z. Advising a Hong Kong company on the merits of a claim relating to online processing of credit card payments.

Conflict of laws & private international law

Many of Anton’s cases involve issues of private international law. He has substantial experience of jurisdiction challenges (on various grounds, including state immunity) and the application of foreign law. For some recent examples, see:

CRF I Limited v Banco Nacional de Cuba (Cuban law)
LCIA arbitration (Cypriot law)
Avonwick Holdings Ltd v Dargamo Holdings Ltd (Ukrainian law)
National Bank Trust v Yurov & others (Russian law)
FM Capital Partners Ltd v Marino & others (Swiss law)

Anton has acted (as sole counsel) in an application for a freezing order against Ukrainian and Bermudan parties, which raised intricate points on service out of the jurisdiction in the context of claims for dishonest assistance and knowing receipt. He has also advised a BVI company doing business in Cambodia on the remedies available in an English court against a former director (a British national resident in Australia).

Anton has written an article on a decision of the Court of Appeal interpreting Article 22(2) of the Judgments Regulation: see “Determining Domicile” in the International Trade and Transport Law Newsletter (January 2010, p 6). He has also contributed to an internal guide on jurisdiction for a law firm specialising in reinsurance disputes.

Energy & natural resources

Anton is recognised as a leading junior in this field by Legal 500. His current and recent cases include:

The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd v Sunlink Energies and Resources Ltd [2023] EWHC 3135 (Comm). Appearing as sole counsel on an urgent application for an anti-suit injunction to restrain the pursuit of a US$1 billion claim in the Nigerian courts, relating to a joint operating agreement / oil mining lease. The injunction was subsequently made final, in mandatory form, and the Court granted declaratory relief, at a hearing in December 2023 (at which Anton appeared with Ben Juratowitch KC).

Dynasty Company for Oil and Gas Trading Ltd v Dr Ashti Hawrami [2021] EWHC 952 (Comm). Acting (with Graham Dunning KC) for the former Minister of Natural Resources of a foreign government in a US$1.6 billion claim arising from a failed purchase of an interest in oil and gas blocks in Iraq.

Pearl Petroleum Co Ltd v Kurdistan Regional Government of Iraq. Long-running (now settled) LCIA dispute in connection with the development and exploitation of gas fields in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, described in Global Arbitration Review as “one of the highest-value gas disputes in the Middle East, with claims valued at over US$39 billion”. Anton represented the Government, led by Graham Dunning KC. A decision in connected Commercial Court proceedings is reported at [2016] 4 WLR 2.

PAO Tatneft v Ukraine [2018] EWHC 1797 (Comm). Acting (with Philip Edey KC) for Ukraine in enforcement proceedings brought by Tatneft, one of Russia’s largest oil producing companies, arising out of an arbitration concerning the ownership and operation of the Kremenchug oil refinery in Ukraine.

Confidential ICC arbitration. Acting (with Graham Dunning KC) in a dispute between publicly listed international oil companies relating to a major offshore development project.

Confidential ICC arbitration. Acting (as sole counsel) for a shareholder in a strategic mining project on an application for anti-suit relief in the Commercial Court.

Confidential LCIA arbitration. Acting (with Graham Dunning KC) in a US$300+ million dispute relating to an interest in uranium mines.

Confidential UNCITRAL arbitration. Advising a mining company in proceedings connected with its operations in Central Asia.

Confidential LCIA arbitration. Acting (with Geraldine Andrews KC) in a dispute relating to the supply of alumina.

Insurance & reinsurance

Anton has experience of arbitrations under ‘Bermuda form’ policies of insurance, including a case concerned with artificial heart implants, and proceedings under a pharmaceutical risk policy (English seat; New York law).

Anton has advised on coverage under professional indemnity, D&O and crime policies of insurance.

Career

2009 – 2010 Pupillage at Essex Court Chambers

2008 Call, Gray’s Inn

2008 – 2009 Research assistant, Law Commission

2007 – 2008 Tutor in EC Law, St John’s College and Balliol College, Oxford Tutor in Jurisprudence, Wadham College, Oxford

2006 – 2007 Research assistant for Professor Simon Whittaker, St John’s College, Oxford

Education

2013 Keble College Advanced International Advocacy Course

2007 – 2008 BVC (Very competent)

2006 – 2007 BCL, Distinction (Conflict of Laws, Restitution, Jurisprudence and Political Theory) St John’s College, Oxford

2003 – 2006 BA (First Class Hons) (Law) St John’s College, Oxford