Christian Charles

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I am an experienced construction lawyer specialising in the resolution of disputes arising from construction, engineering and infrastructure projects in the UK and internationally.

I help clients to anticipate and resolve a wide range of issues that arise throughout the project lifecycle, including payment and valuation disputes, contested variations, delays, defects (including building safety defects) and termination. I advise on issues as they arise in real time, allowing clients to focus on project delivery with a view to settling disputes and avoiding formal proceedings. Where that is not possible, I advise clients on the prosecution or defence of claims and, more broadly, on dispute resolution strategy and settlement.

I have represented clients in a wide range of dispute resolution proceedings in the UK and overseas, including adjudication, expert determination, dispute boards, arbitration and litigation. I am also experienced in various forms of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), including mediation.

My practice covers a wide range of industry sectors, including PFI / PPP, green energy, offshore construction, as well as commercial and residential property development. I act for clients from all corners of the industry, from funders and developers to contractors, sub-contractors and consultants, which gives me a broad perspective on the interests and objectives of project stakeholders.

Accolades

“Up and Coming” Partner, Chambers UK 2026

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Acting for multiple PFI project companies in serial adjudication and arbitration proceedings against contractors in connection with latent defects in a portfolio of schools and healthcare projects in the UK.
Acting for a developer in claims against a contractor and architect in relation to defective cladding and fire compartmentation in a high-rise residential building in the UK.
Representing a FTSE 250 company in the prosecution and settlement of a substantial professional negligence claim against an architect in connection with multi-unit industrial development in the UK.
Acting for a sub-contractor in adjudication and High Court proceedings in connection with a £20 million termination dispute on a data centre project in London.
Advising an EPC contractor in connection with the prosecution of claims and settlement of a £25 million final account dispute in relation to a new energy from waste facility in the UK.
Representing a developer in multi-party TCC proceedings in relation to claims arising from defects in infrastructure works as part of a mixed-use development in the UK.
Representing a sub-contractor in ICC arbitration proceedings concerning claims for delay and disruption to a port rehabilitation project in the Middle East.
Acting for the owner and operator of a power plant in Rwanda in urgent Commercial Court and TCC proceedings arising from the calling of a USD 32 million performance bond.
Advising funders and development partners in relation to multiple claims (including insurance and professional negligence claims totalling £12 million) arising from the delayed completion of a mixed-use development in the UK.

We advise secondary and primary-market investors in a range of sectors, PPPs/PFI and asset-backed vehicles we advise investors and contractors on their involvement with PPPs, PFIs and asset-backed vehicles and are experienced in drafting and negotiating appropriate forms of contract (including standard forms) and associated sub-contracts. We also act for a number of investors and contractors on existing renewable energy and battery storage projects, PPPs and PFIs, including advice to investors on the acquisition of portfolios of PFI/ PPP and renewable energy generation assets.

Projects & Infrastructure

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Chris is a very good lawyer who is also customer-focused and brings commercial awareness to his advice.
Chambers UK, 2026

Christian Charles can switch between doing detailed legal points and high-level strategic approach better than any other lawyer I've come across. His advice is consistently succinct, balanced and excellent. His commercial awareness and responsiveness are real strengths. I also respect the commitment he shows for developing junior members of the team.
Legal 500, 2025

Christian Charles is responsive and pragmatic. He has a great understanding of the PFI sector and can offer industry insight which is invaluable when carrying out the cost/benefit analysis in relation to a contentious matter.
Legal 500, 2025