We are delighted to announce our inaugural Serle Court Country House Hotel Conference.
Over many years, Serle Court has developed a strong reputation in commercial dispute resolution, supported by the excellent working relationships we have built with our valued clients. With this conference, we aim to bring together a select group of leading commercial solicitors to exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from one another. The programme focuses on Fraud through a broad, contemporary lens. We will explore the latest legal trends and developments in the field, while also providing ample opportunity to network with peers.
The conference will take place on Thursday 12th – Friday 13th March 2026, in the sumptuous surroundings of Chewton Glen Hotel, situated in the New Forest
It’s all very well knowing that your clients have been defrauded, but before you can help them get their money back you need to know who to sue and what for and to have the evidence to support any claim. The panel will look at a number of applications which can be made, both here and overseas, to obtain the information necessary to bring proceedings to recover your clients’ losses.
To what extent can those accused of fraud avoid liability by advancing a limitation defence? The panel will consider the extent to which claimants can rely on section 32(1)(a) of the Limitation Act 1980 (actions based on the fraud of the defendant) and section 32(1)(b) (deliberate concealment) to extend time for bringing claims. The panel will also discuss the strategic decisions involved in pursing and defending such claims.
Victims of international fraud can struggle to establish jurisdiction against overseas respondents, especially when trying to enforce an English judgment against third parties. The panel will provide an update on the current position, the courts’ direction of travel, and strategies for avoiding jurisdictional pitfalls.
Pre-dinner speech from Elizabeth Jones KC.
Guest of Honour, Sir Julian Flaux, former Chancellor of the High Court
Sir Julian Flaux, former Chancellor of the High Court, on fraud litigation from the perspective of the High Court and Court of Appeal
A hands-on workshop on freezing orders
Delegates will break into six teams (3 claimants and 3 defendants) to prepare and present arguments on setting aside or maintaining a freezing order. Each team will tackle one of three core grounds— (1) serious issue to be tried, (2) risk of dissipation, (3) full and frank disclosure—before presenting their case to the judge.
In this interactive session, delegates will work with members of Chambers to develop and deliver arguments for and against setting aside a freezing order. Teams will analyse key grounds for challenge, select one or more advocates, and present a 15-minute submission in a live courtroom-style setting.
Following the conclusion of the conference, guests are invited to join us for a variety of countryside activities. These are optional to attend. Activities include duck herding, archery, falconry, tennis, golf or a trip to the spa.
Serle Court is delighted to partner with Chewton Glen Hotel and Spa to host our inaugural Country House Hotel Conference. We are excited to welcome our guests to the sumptuous surroundings of the New Forest. The venue is easily accessible, with direct trains from London Waterloo to New Milton that take approximately two hours. The hotel is a seven-minute taxi ride from the station. in the sumptuous surroundings of Chewton Glen Hotel, situated in the New Forest. The venue is easily accessible, with direct trains from London Waterloo to New Milton that take approximately two hours. The hotel is a seven-minute taxi ride from the station.
Zoe Gardiner (Business Development and Marketing Director).
S. "Fletch" Fletcher ( Senior Marketing Executive).
We are here to assist you with any questions, registration details, or special requests you may have. Feel free to reach out to us via email at events@serlecourt.co.uk.
