DAVID SMITH has a broad practice covering complex commercial litigation, dispute resolution, international arbitration, and contentious regulatory matters.
David’s experience includes proceedings in the High Court and arbitration conducted under London Court of International Arbitration and International Chamber of Commerce rules, as well as assisting clients in Financial Conduct Authority enforcement actions, Serious Fraud Office investigations, and antitrust proceedings before the European Commission. David has also advised clients on the drafting of arbitration clauses in a transactional context.
David is recommended in Legal 500 UK 2025 for Commercial Litigation: Premium, and White-Collar Crime, with sources telling the publication “[..] David Smith [is] well above all our expectations. Talented and client/business oriented. Always available.” The 2023 edition recommended David for White-Collar Crime, with clients saying “David is a great senior associate to be praised.”
David has worked with a wide range of clients, including financial institutions, corporates, technology and media firms, and insurers.
Prior to joining Sidley, David trained at a Magic Circle firm, qualifying as an associate in the firm’s litigation and dispute resolution practice in 2017. During his training, he also gained experience in transactional real estate, environment, and planning and was seconded to the firm’s corporate practice in Paris.
Previously, David was a professional cyclist who competed internationally, including for the Great Britain junior team.