International law firm Reed Smith today announced the appointment of partner Tim Beale to its commercial disputes group based in London. Tim joins the firm from SJ Berwin and starts with immediate effect.

Tim has wide ranging experience running complex commercial litigation, often with an international element. Tim’s reputation is built principally on his commercial fraud expertise and in complex financial services disputes, particularly in the funds and private equity sectors. His practice also covers extensive experience in corporate disputes, pensions and media litigation. In addition he has acknowledged expertise in leading particularly significant international arbitrations, and has handled individual matters worth in excess of $8 billion.

Tim’s work over the last 12 months includes acting for: 

• A worldwide dispute for MSCI against its key competitors.
• The Respondents in a LCIA arbitration in a claim for in excess of US$1bn between two high profile Russian Oligarchs (following the successful conclusion of related Commercial Court action).
• One of the countries biggest private health care providers in a shareholders dispute.
• A multi-million dollar dispute on behalf of the US ICON Group against a Singaporean Shipping Company.

Richard Spafford, Reed Smith partner and head of the firm’s Europe and Middle East Commercial Disputes Group commented:

“Tim’s arrival is part of our continued effort to add further quality partners in all areas of our commercial disputes group. Tim’s broad financial services expertise and considerable experience of international work will help cement our position as a top 15 international litigation firm.”

Tim Beale added:

“I am delighted to be joining the team at Reed Smith, and excited by the challenge of continuing to develop globally and domestically their already outstanding reputation in dispute resolution.”

ENDS

Note to Editors:

About Reed Smith

Reed Smith is a global law firm, with 23 offices and more than 1,700 lawyers in offices across Europe, the Middle East, Asia and the United States.

For further information please visit www.reedsmith.com or contact Jeyda Star (PR Manager EME) on +44 (0)20 3116 2571.