Dispute resolution
Disputes in the international art arena range from ownership conflicts to authenticity disputes; from fraud cases to tax rulings issued by Customs.
We offer art market professionals a comprehensive dispute resolution service encompassing negotiation, arbitration, mediation and litigation. Our aim is to find consensual means of resolving conflicts wherever possible. Negotiated settlements and mediated solutions are often confidential, quicker, cheaper and less disruptive to our clients' business. If however, litigation is the best course, we take decisive action to defend our clients' interests.
We have extensive experience of acting in ownership and restitution claims, authenticity disputes, and compensation claims when art has been lost, destroyed or damaged, as well as in cases of art fraud and theft.
We have negotiated settlements with HM Revenue & Customs (UK) HMRC, and represented clients in appeals against HMRC decisions. Additionally, we make representations to the Spoliation Advisory Committee (UK).
Our dispute resolution service is used by clients all over the world, including commercial galleries, art dealers and non-profit organizations.
Recent work
- Representing a well-known British firm of art advisors in the recovery, through the US court, of several paintings consigned to a US-based art dealership.
- Acting for a London contemporary art gallery in an appeal against a VAT (Value Added Tax) decision by HMRC.
- Acting for a London dealership in connection with a Holocaust related claim.