Portland’s annual Commercial Courts Report analyses judgments from the London Commercial Courts to identify notable trends – including who uses the courts, from where, and why.
Complemented by expert opinion produced for this year’s report, we also examine the state of play for the commercial court; Russian and Ukrainian litigants; English law as a platform for international business; competition from courts overseas; and the litigious landscape in the post-Covid era.
The 2022 report, the tenth to be produced by Portland, is available here.
This year’s report reviewed the 234 cases heard in the London Commercial Courts between April 2021 and March 2022. Our analysis found:
- A dramatic drop in the number of judgments – a once-off, or a sign of decline?
Twenty per cent fewer judgments were handed down this year and 34% fewer litigants used the courts.
A combination of Brexit, COVID-19 and increased competition from other international courts is likely to be responsible.
- The end of Russian dominance in the courts?
Russia has dominated the London Commercial Courts for over ten years – and the numbers show last year was no exception.
Portland’s exclusive polling confirms, however, that public opinion is firmly against law firms which provide legal services to Russian clients.
- The UK public think the Courts have an important impact on the country’s reputation.
The Courts however face more threats and greater competition than ever before. But there are opportunities as well – most notably from the rise of remote hearings.
The Commercial Courts Report is compiled by Portland’s Litigation and Disputes practice.
The practice provides specialist advice and strategic communications support to top-tier law firms around the world. We work to reinforce the legal strategy of lawyers undertaking complex or high-profile litigation. We can help ensure that every aspect of your client’s concerns are managed, and every potential advantage explored.
The team is ranked in Band One in the Chambers and Partners Litigation Support Guide.
Please contact us for additional Commercial Courts data and analysis, or to learn more about how we can help.