Adrian de Froment

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Adrian de Froment has a broad commercial chancery practice with a focus on commercial disputes, intellectual property, civil fraud and offshore and DIFC disputes. He has a particular interest in matters which combine these practice areas.

Much of Adrian’s work has an international or cross-border element to it, and he has experience of jurisdiction disputes, conflict of laws, service out of the jurisdiction and enforcement of foreign judgments. He also has experience obtaining interim relief, including freezing relief and Norwich Pharmacal relief.

He has substantial experience of large, complex litigation, having acted in matters including Wong v Grand View Private Trust Company Limited and ors, one of the highest value trust cases to have been litigated, and the RBS Rights Issue litigation.

Adrian also regularly appears unled in the High Court and IPEC. Recent instructions include acting for the successful parties in two recent patent disputes, D.W. Windsor Limited v Urbis Schreder Limited [2025] EWHC 563 (IPEC) and Bionome Technology Limited v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch), and in UK enforcement proceedings following judgment in the DIFC for $135 million.

Adrian is a registered Part II Practitioner before the DIFC Courts. He has been instructed in numerous matters overseas, both at first instance and on appeal, including in the DIFC Courts and the courts of The Bahamas and of Bermuda.

Prior to coming to the Bar, Adrian gained a PhD from Princeton University. As a former scientist, he is well placed to deal with scientific and quantitative issues that arise in litigation.

Areas of Expertise

Commercial Litigation

Recent Cases

(2025-ongoing) – Led by Rupert Reed KC, Adrian is acting in very substantial a fraud and intellectual property matter arising from alleged wrongdoing relating to a large corporate group based in the UAE.
ESG Global (Energy) Limited v Pozitive Energy Limited & Ors (2025-ongoing) – Led by Matthew Morrison KC, Adrian is acting in this commercial and software copyright cross-over matter.
Cavadore Limited & Or v Jawa & Or [2025] EWHC 2222 (Ch) – Instructed by DMH Stallard LLP. A trade mark and licensing matter involving issues relating to extensions of time under CPR r.7.6(2) and r.7.6(3) for service out of the jurisdiction in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Bionome Technology Limited v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch) – Instructed by Simmons & Simmons LLP. Adrian acted for the successful respondent on an appeal from the Comptroller to the High Court in complex proceedings involving issues including the proper mode of declaration of trusts, the law of assignment and patent entitlement.
Wong v Grand View Private Trust Company Limited and ors (2021-2025) – Instructed by MJM Ltd (Bermuda), Baker McKenzie (Taipei) and Stewarts Law (UK). Adrian acts with Richard Wilson KC, Professor Jonathan Harris KC (Hon.) and James Weale in one of the highest value trust cases to have been litigated. The 6-month trial took place between April and October 2021. The trial judgment ([2022] SC (Bda) 44 Com) is the subject of an appeal to the Bermuda Court of Appeal that was heard before Clarke P and Gloster and Smellie LJJ over 10 days in January 2025.
Covalis Capital LP & Covalis Capital LLP v Banco BTG Pactual SA (2023). Led by Hugh Norbury KC, Adrian acted for the claimants in claims relating to an investment fund.
Municipio de Mariana & Ors v BHP Group. Adrian was instructed for the claimants in one of the largest group actions to come before the English court, arising from the collapse of the Fundão Dam in Brazil in 2015. The dam collapse has been described as the worst environmental disaster in Brazilian history (instructed by SPG Law).
Barclays v Shetty (2020-22); (CFI-061-2020 in the DIFC); (CL-2021-000397 UK enforcement proceedings) – Instructed by Simmons & Simmons. Led by Zoe O’Sullivan KC, Adrian acted for the successful claimant bank in a claim under a guarantee following the collapse of the defendant’s UAE-based business empire. Obtained a USD $135 million WWFO ex parte (before Wayne Martin J), continued by consent, and was successful in an application for immediate judgment: [2020] DIFC CFI 061 (also before Wayne Martin J). Acted (unled) in successful UK enforcement proceedings, obtaining summary judgment ([2022] EWHC 19 (Comm), Henshaw J), interim and final charging orders, permission to serve out and by alternative means on third parties in more than 10 different jurisdictions, and an order for possession and sale of valuable property in London.
Harrington v Wells (BL-2020-002057) – Acting for the defendant in a High Court claim concerning alleged deceit in relation to an investment in a company developing data management and processing software for the telecoms industry (instructed by IBB).
Barclays v Al Khaili (2020-21, DIFC); Claim Nos: CFI-012-2020; CFI-086-2020; CA-003-2021 – Instructed by Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP). Adrian acted for the claimant bank at first instance and on its successful appeal before Justices Christopher Clarke, Wayne Martin and Zaki Azmi in a case concerning recognition in the DIFC of judgments from other jurisdictions, including for the purposes of the statutory res judicata provision Art 5(A)(4) of the Judicial Authority Law.
GDE LLC and Goffe v Anglia Autoflow Limited [2020] EWHC 105 (Comm) – Acted, with Professor Jonathan Harris KC (Hon.), for the successful defendant at a 5-day trial of a preliminary issue as to choice of law under Rome Convention (instructed by Birketts LLP).
KBC Aldini Capital Limited v David Baazov & Ors – Acted (led by Rupert Reed KC) for a Canadian internet entrepreneur in defending claims for USD 40 million based on fraud and passing off allegations made in DIFC proceedings relating to equity commitment letters filed in support of a ‘go private’ bid to acquire Amaya Inc: jurisdiction challenge ([2017] DIFC CFI 002) interlocutory applications, claimant struck out shortly before trial in February 2020 (instructed by Norton Rose Fulbright).
INVISTA v Botes & Ors [2019] EWHC 58 (Ch); [2019] 1 WLUK 170; [2019] EWHC 1086 (Ch); [2019] EWHC 1087 (Ch); [2019] EWHC 1088 (Ch) – Adrian acted for the successful defendants in this claim for alleged misuse of confidential information concerning biotechnology. He was successful at trial before Birss J, after successfully resisted summary judgment before Arnold J. The various judgments on liability and costs include an important decision on Part 36 offers: [2019] 1 WLUK 170; [2019] EWHC 1086 (Ch); [2019] EWHC 1087 (Ch); [2019] EWHC 1088 (Ch).
HSBC Invoice Finance v Augustus Martin (2018-2019) – Acted as sole counsel for the defendant and Part 20 claimant in relation to claims exceeding £6m arising out of unpaid and allegedly inflated invoices (instructed by Kingsley Napley).
Advised (with Professor Jonathan Harris KC (Hon.)) in relation to a potential claim against the English guarantor of a debt owed by a French company to a Monégasque bank which had subsequently been assigned to a BVI company owned by a subset of the guarantors. The case involved complex jurisdiction and choice of law issues and an issue regarding the possible connivance in the default of their co-guarantor by the shareholders in the potential claimant (2017-2018) (instructed by Charles Russell Speechlys).
RBS Rights Issue (2015-2017) – Instructed as part of the team acting for the defendants in claims arising out of the £12 billion RBS rights issue, with David Railton KC, Sonia Tolaney KC, David Blayney KC and Simon Hattan (instructed by Herbert Smith Freehills).
Shoeb v Square One (2017) – Acted as sole counsel for the defendants in a $1.6m debt claim involving allegations of sham (instructed by LSGA).
Sigley v Southern – Acted for the respondent to a s.994 unfair prejudice petition.
Smith v Huertas (2015) – Instructed (with Jennifer Haywood), for the respondent in relation to an application for a declaration under Regulation 44/2001 art.34(1) that it would be manifestly contrary to public policy for the UK to recognise and enforce a French judgment (instructed by Boodle Hatfield).
HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Mishal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud v Apex Global Management Ltd [2014] EWCA Civ 1106 – Assisted Daniel Lightman (now KC) in an appeal by a Saudi Arabian Prince, the respondent to a s.994 petition, against an unless order and the entry of judgment against him for US$ 7.7m.
Singh v Singh [2014] EWHC 1060 (Ch) – Assisted Ian Croxford KC and Daniel Lightman in a 5-week trial that resulted in the dismissal by Sir William Blackburne of a claim by a father that his son’s business empire was held on constructive trust for the male members of his family in accordance with the Indian principles of the Mitakshara.
Bank of St Petersburg & Or v Arkhangelsky & Ors [2014] EWCA Civ 593 – Assisted Philip Marshall KC and Justin Higgo in this matter in which the Court of Appeal disapplied a Russian limitation period and granted an anti-enforcement injunction preventing the enforcement of Russian judgments abroad pending the outcome of litigation in England.

Civil Fraud

Recent Cases

(2025-ongoing) – Led by Rupert Reed KC, Adrian is acting in very substantial a fraud and intellectual property matter arising from alleged wrongdoing relating to companies incorporated in the UAE.
Barclays v Shetty (2020-22); (CFI-061-2020 in the DIFC); (CL-2021-000397 UK enforcement proceedings) – Instructed by Simmons & Simmons. Led by Zoe O’Sullivan KC, Adrian acted for the successful claimant bank in a claim under a guarantee following the collapse of the defendant’s UAE-based business empire. Obtained a USD $135 million WWFO ex parte (before Wayne Martin J), continued by consent, and in the successful application for immediate judgment: [2020] DIFC CFI 061 (also before Wayne Martin J). Acted (unled) in successful UK enforcement proceedings, obtaining summary judgment ([2022] EWHC 19 (Comm), Henshaw J), interim and final charging orders, permission to serve out and by alternative means on third parties in more than 10 different jurisdictions, and an order for possession and sale of valuable property in London.
Harrington v Wells – Acted for the defendant in a High Court claim concerning alleged deceit in relation to an investment in a company developing data management and processing software for the telecoms industry (instructed by IBB).
Faerch v Davidson – Acting for the defendant in a claim concerning alleged embezzlement, including appearing at the return date of a doorstep delivery-up and imaging order.
HSBC Invoice Finance v Augustus Martin – Acted for the defendant and Part 20 claimant in relation to claims exceeding £6m arising out of allegedly inflated invoices (instructed by Kingsley Napley).
KBC Aldini Capital Limited v David Baazov & Ors [2017] DIFC CFI 002 – Acted, with Rupert Reed KC, for a Canadian internet entrepreneur in defending claims for USD 40 million based on fraud allegations made in DIFC proceedings relating to equity commitment letters filed in support of a ‘go private’ bid to acquire Amaya Inc (instructed by Norton Rose Fulbright).
Shoeb v Square One – Acted as sole counsel for the defendants in a $1.6m debt claim involving allegations of sham (instructed by LSGA).
HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Mishal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud v Apex Global Management Ltd [2014] EWCA Civ 1106 – Assisted Daniel Lightman in an appeal by a Saudi Arabian Prince, the respondent to a s.994 petition, against an unless order and the entry of judgment against him for US$ 7.7m.

Intellectual Property

Adrian is ranked by both Chambers & Partners and Legal 500 for Intellectual Property. He is frequently instructed in patent, trade mark, passing off, copyright, design and breach of confidence / trade secret matters in the High Court, IPEC and UK IPO.

He is a contributor to the CITMA publication “Contentious Trade Mark Registry Proceedings” by Michael Edenborough KC, and also a contributor to the CITMA and CIPA Trade Mark Handbook.

Recent Cases

Damex (UK) Limited v Brennan Enterprise Limited (2025-ongoing) – Adrian acts of the Claimant in complex IPEC proceedings concerning a patent for technical fabric.
Fraud and intellectual property (2025) – Led by Rupert Reed KC, Adrian is acting in a fraud and IP matter arising from alleged wrongdoing relating to companies incorporated in the UAE.
ESG Global (Energy) Limited v Pozitive Energy Limited & Ors (2025-ongoing) – Led by Matthew Morrison KC, Adrian acts for the claimant in this software copyright and breach of confidence matter.
Carl Zeiss Meditec AG v BC Hilamax Oy (2025) – Instructed by Dehns. Trade mark appeal to the Appointed Person. Decision pending.
CyberOcean Limited v Supercraft Limited & Ors (2025) – Instructed by JMW LLP. Adrian acts for the 1st and 2nd Defendants in this software copyright and fraud IPEC matter.
Damex FR (UK) Ltd v Brennan Enterprise Ltd (2025) – Instructed by Knights plc. Acting for the claimant in a claim seeking a declaration of invalidity and revocation, a declaration of non-infringement, and remedies in respect of unjustified threats.
Cavadore Limited & Or v Jawa & Or [2025] EWHC 2222 (Ch) – Instructed by DMH Stallard LLP. A trade mark and licensing matter in the High Court involving issues relating to extensions of time under CPR r.7.6(2) and r.7.6(3) for service out of the jurisdiction in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
D.W. Windsor Limited v Urbis Schreder Limited [2025] EWHC 563 (IPEC) – Instructed by Fox Wiliams LLP. Adrian acted for the successful claimant in a 2-day IPEC patent infringement trial before HHJ Melissa Clarke in December 2024 concerning patents relating to lighting infrastructure. Led by Tom Moody-Stuart KC, Adrian also represented D.W. Windsor in separate proceedings brought by Urbis Schreder.
Bionome Technology Limited v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch) – Instructed by Simmons & Simmons LLP. Adrian acts for the successful respondent on an appeal from the Comptroller to the High Court in patent entitlement proceedings. The appeal raised both patent and commercial chancery issues including the proper mode of declaration of trusts, the law of assignment and patent entitlement.
STIRLING MOSS Trade Mark – Instructed by Boodle Hatfield LLP. Adrian acts for the administrator of the estate of the racing driver Stirling Moss in a dispute relating to the trade mark STIRLING MOSS.
Registered design: Jellycat Limited v Aldi Stores Limited (Defendant) v Posh Paws International Limited (Third Party) – Instructed by Birketts LLP. Adrian acts for Posh Paws International Limited in high-profile High Court proceedings regarding alleged infringement of a registered design for a Jellycat “Dexter Dragon” soft toy.
iMiracle (HK) Limited v Vapes-Bars Limited (2023-2024) – Instructed by JMW LLP. Adrian, led by Michael Edenborough KC, represented the Defendants in this complex and very high-value (many millions of USD) trade mark and passing-off matter relating to disposable vapes. Adrian successfully obtained an order from Mr Justice Meade transferring the matter out of the Shorter Trial Scheme: iMiracle (HK) Limited v Vapes-Bars Limited [2023] EWHC 2972 (Ch) (October 2023). The judgment provided important guidance on the scope of the STS.
Copyright (2004) – Acted for the Claimant in a claim for infringement of copyright in design drawings (instructed by Birketts LLP)
Confidential information (2024) – Acting for the claimant in action against a former employee for breach of confidence (instructed by Potter Clarkson LLP).
Trade marks (2024) – Acted for the Italian luxury goods maker Sergio Rossi S.P.A. in complex cross-oppositions (instructed by Bromhead Johnson LLP).
Software Copyright (2024) – Acting for the claimant in a claim for infringement of copyright in software (instructed by JMW LLP).
Kinleigh Ltd (t/a “Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward”/”Kfh”) v David Astburys Ltd (2023) – Acted for the claimant in an action against former employees for breach of confidence.
Art forgery – Advising an art dealer on strategy in relation to forgery by third parties of work purportedly by a well-known street artist (2023).
Passing off (2023) – RSM Restaurant Limited and ors v Liverpool Road Leisure and ors. Acted for the claimants in passing off proceedings (instructed by JMW LLP).
Om Records LLC v Om Developpement (O/1087/22) – IPO proceedings involving s.5(2)(b) and s.5(4)(a) cross-oppositions; assignments in gross; whether goodwill trivial in extent (instructed by Murgitroyd).
Harrington v Wells – Acting for the defendant in a High Court claim concerning alleged deceit in relation to an investment in a company developing data management and processing software for the telecoms industry (instructed by IBB).
Trade marks (2022) – Advised in relation to potential multi-jurisdictional trade mark infringement and passing off proceedings; descriptive marks (instructed by Murgitroyd).
PAI Partners SAS v PAI Capital Limited (2022) – Trade marks: Acted for the successful claimant in a claim for trade mark infringement and passing off in relation to the use of the name of a French private equity firm (instructed by Potter Clarkson LLP).
IPR Protection Ltd v Biddle (2022) – Acted for the defendant in relation to claims for trade mark infringement; s.11(2)(b) descriptive use defence; s.47 invalidity application (instructed by Bird & Bird).
Patent infringement (2022) – Advised as to the availability of claim for infringement of a patent for a geotextile material (instructed by Hill Dickinson).
Perimeter Solutions v Perimeter Fencing Solutions (2021) – Acted for the claimant in a passing off matter. Settled after service of particulars of claim (instructed by JMW LLP).
Photobooth v NEPBH (IP-2021-NCL-000002) – Copyright infringement claim in relation to mobile booth “skins”. Instructed in relation to CMC (instructed by McDaniel & Co.).
easyGroup v Beauty Perfectionists Limited & Ors (IL-2020-000032) – Drafted particulars of claim in a High Court claim for trade mark infringement (instructed by Stephenson Harwood LLP).
RE: POTTER’S HERBALS (OP000412928) – Trade mark opposition at the UK IPO, including an interlocutory application for disclosure (instructed by Joshi IP).
Trade marks: RE: GAPMAPS (OP000414681) – Trade mark opposition at the UK IPO (instructed by J.A. Kemp LLP).
Copyright: Penhallurick v MD5 Limited – Instructed for the claimant in relation to cross-claims in the IPEC for infringement of copyright in computer software and breach of contract: statements of case, advice, oral advocacy at interlocutory hearings (instructed by Virtuoso Legal).
INVISTA v Botes & Ors [2019] EWHC 58 (Ch); [2019] 1 WLUK 170; [2019] EWHC 1086 (Ch); [2019] EWHC 1087 (Ch); [2019] EWHC 1088 (Ch) – Acted, unled, for the successful defendants in this dispute involving allegations that research scientists formerly employed by INVISTA had acted in breach of confidence, in breach of pre- and post-termination employment covenants and had procured breaches of contract by a third party. Successfully resisted summary judgment one month before trial (before Arnold J.). Represented the defendants at the 7-day trial before Birss J., at which the breach of confidence, post-termination and procuring claims were dismissed, and at 5 hearing days in relation to consequential matters. The case was notable for the costs result. Birss J. held that a part 36 offer made four months before trial by the claimants had not been a genuine offer to settle and this was one of the rare cases in which it was therefore unjust to enforce any of the consequences of CPR 36.17(4). Birss J. accordingly made a costs award in favour of the defendants.
RE: IT ON YOUR TERMS (R0432/2018) – Instructed, with Michael Edenborough KC, for the appellant in relation to an appeal against a decision of the EU IPO (instructed by IPTogether).
BSS Group Limited & PTS Group Limited v Perry Street Software – Instructed, with Michael Edenborough KC, for the claimant in IPEC proceedings for infringement of EUTMs and UKTMs and associated counterclaim for declaration of invalidity / revocation (instructed by Freeths LLP).
Chiselwood v Bespoke Cabinets Ltd & Krantz – Acted for the claimant at the 1-day trial of a claim for infringement of copyright and UKUDR (IPEC) (instructed by McDaniel & Co).
EPP v Farnsworth & Ors – Acted for the claimant exclusive licensee in relation to an IPEC claim for infringement of two EUTMs, copyright infringement and passing off (instructed by Virtuoso Legal).

International

Adrian has a busy offshore practice including recent instructions in high-profile cases in Bermuda and The Bahamas.

A large part of Adrian’s English work also has an international or cross-border dimension to it, including advice and advocacy in relation to private international law issues as detailed in that section below.

Recent Cases

R (SCRL) v Prime Minister of The Bahamas & Ors (2025–ongoing) – Adrian is instructed for SCRL in a complex set of judicial review (2025/PUB/JRV/00020) and statutory appeal proceedings arising from the approval of a very substantial resort development on a presently uninhabited island in the Exuma Cays.
Wong v Grand View Private Trust Company Limited & Ors (2022-2025) – Instructed by MJM Ltd (Bermuda), Baker McKenzie (Taipei) and Stewarts Law (UK). Adrian acted with Richard Wilson KC, Jonathan Harris KC (Hon) and James Weale in one of the highest value trust cases to have been litigated. The 6-month trial took place between April and October 2022. The trial judgment ([2022] SC (Bda) 44 Com (22 June 2022) was the subject of an appeal to the Bermuda Court of Appeal that was heard over 10 days in January 2025.
Jean-Rony Jean Charles v Attorney General of the Bahamas, Minister of Immigration & Ors (JCPC 2019/0100) – Led by Edward Fitzgerald KC, Adrian acted for the appellant on his appeal to the Privy Council (heard in July 2022) arising from his detention and expulsion from The Bahamas to Haiti. The appeal to the Privy Council concerned, inter alia, points of general importance concerning the ambit of the court’s constitutional jurisdiction in the Bahamas, including in particular whether constitutional relief may be sought in the same proceedings as a writ of habeas corpus, and the scope of the relief which may be ordered pursuant to that jurisdiction. Instructed by Callenders & Co (Bahamas) and Simons Muirhead Burton (London). The case has attracted considerable political and public attention in The Bahamas.
Barclays v Shetty (2020-22); (CFI-061-2020 in the DIFC); (CL-2021-000397 UK enforcement proceedings) – Led by Zoe O’Sullivan KC, Adrian acted for the successful claimant bank in a claim under a guarantee following the collapse of the defendant’s UAE-based business empire. Obtained a USD $135 million WWFO ex parte (before Wayne Martin J), continued by consent, and in the successful application for immediate judgment: [2020] DIFC CFI 061 (also before Wayne Martin J). Acted (unled) in successful UK enforcement proceedings, obtaining summary judgment ([2022] EWHC 19 (Comm), Henshaw J), interim and final charging orders, permission to serve out and by alternative means on third parties in more than 10 different jurisdictions, and an order for possession and sale of valuable property in London (instructed by Simmons & Simmons).
Barclays v Al Khaili (2020-21); Claim Nos: CFI-012-2020; CFI-086-2020; CA-003-2021 – Instructed on behalf of the claimant bank at first instance and on its successful appeal before Justices Christopher Clarke, Wayne Martin and Zaki Azmi in a case concerning recognition in the DIFC of judgments from other jurisdictions, including for the purposes of the statutory res judicata provision Art 5(A)(4) of the Judicial Authority Law (instructed by Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP).
KBC Aldini v Baazov & Ors (2018-2020) – Led by Rupert Reed KC, Adrian acted for the first defendant to claims for USD 40 million based on fraud and passing off allegations relating to equity commitment letters filed in support of a ‘go private’ bid to acquire Amaya Inc. The proceedings involved a jurisdiction challenge and various interlocutory applications, including a successful application for evidence to be given by video link (apparently only the third such order granted in over a decade, and of renewed interest after the onset of the pandemic) and a successful application for security costs made by the defendants shortly before trial in February 2020 (instructed by Norton Rose Fulbright LLP).

UAE & DIFC Litigation

Adrian is a Registered Part II Practitioner in the DIFC.

Recent Cases

Fraud & Intellectual Property (2025) – Led by Rupert Reed KC, Adrian is acting in a fraud and passing off matter arising from alleged wrongdoing relating to companies incorporated in the UAE.
Barclays v Shetty (2020-22) (CFI-061-2020) – Instructed by Simmons & Simmons Middle East LLP. Led by Zoe O’Sullivan KC, Adrian acted for the Barclays in a claim under a guarantee following the collapse of the defendant’s UAE-based business empire. Obtained a USD $135 million WWFO ex parte (before Wayne Martin J), continued by consent, and then immediate judgment: [2020] DIFC CFI 061 (also before Wayne Martin J). Adrian also represented Barclays in the subsequent UK enforcement proceedings, obtaining summary judgment (Barclays v Shetty [2022] EWHC 19 (Comm), Henshaw J.), interim and final charging orders, permission to serve out and by alternative means on third parties in more than 10 different jurisdictions, and an order for possession and sale of valuable property in London.
Lural v (1) Listran (2) Lokhan [2021] DIFC CA 003 – Instructed by Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP. Adrian acted for the claimant bank at first instance and on appeal before Justices Christopher Clarke, Wayne Martin and Zaki Azmi in a case concerning recognition in the DIFC of judgments from other jurisdictions, and the proper construction and application of the statutory res judicata provisions in Art 5(A)(4) of the Judicial Authority Law. The matter then went to the Federal Supreme Court for adjudication under Article 99 of the UAE Constitution.
KBC Aldini Capital Limited v David Baazov & Ors (2017-2020) – Instructed by Norton Rose Fulbright. Led by Rupert Reed KC, Adrian acted for a Canadian internet entrepreneur in defending claims for USD 40 million based on fraud and passing off allegations made in DIFC proceedings relating to equity commitment letters filed in support of a ‘go private’ bid to acquire Amaya Inc. The matter involved a jurisdiction challenge ([2017] DIFC CFI 002) and various interlocutory applications. The claim struck out shortly before trial in February 2020.

Trusts & Probate

Recent Cases

Wong v Grand View Private Trust Company Limited & Ors (Ongoing) – Instructed by MJM Ltd (Bermuda), Baker McKenzie (Taipei) and Stewarts Law (UK). Led by Richard Wilson KC, and by Professor Jonathan Harris KC (Hon.) in relation to conflict of laws issues, Adrian acts in one of the highest value trust cases to have been litigated. The 6-month trial took place between April and October 2021. The trial judgment ([2022] SC (Bda) 44 Com) is the subject of an appeal to the Bermuda Court of Appeal that was heard over 10 days in January 2025.
Bionome Technology Limited v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch) – Instructed by Simmons & Simmons LLP. Adrian acted for the successful respondent on an appeal to the High Court on issues including whether a trust had been properly declared over certain patent applications.

Private International Law

Recent Cases

Wong v Grand View Private Trust Company Limited & Ors (Ongoing) – Instructed by MJM Ltd (Bermuda), Baker McKenzie (Taipei) and Stewarts Law (UK). Led by Richard Wilson KC, and by Professor Jonathan Harris KC (Hon.) in relation to conflict of laws issues, Adrian acts in one of the highest value trust cases to have been litigated. The 6-month trial took place between April and October 2022. The trial judgment ([2022] SC (Bda) 44 Com) is the subject of an appeal to the Bermuda Court of Appeal that was heard over 10 days in January 2025.
Barclays v Shetty (2020-22); (CFI-061-2020 in the DIFC); (CL-2021-000397 UK enforcement proceedings) – Instructed by Simmons & Simmons. Led by Zoe O’Sullivan KC, Adrian acted for the successful claimant bank in a claim under a guarantee following the collapse of the defendant’s UAE-based business empire. Obtained a USD $135 million WWFO ex parte (before Wayne Martin J), continued by consent, and was successful in an application for immediate judgment: [2020] DIFC CFI 061 (also before Wayne Martin J). Acted (unled) in successful UK enforcement proceedings, obtaining summary judgment ([2022] EWHC 19 (Comm), Henshaw J), interim and final charging orders, permission to serve out and by alternative means on third parties in more than 10 different jurisdictions, and an order for possession and sale of valuable property in London.
Barclays v Al Khaili (2020-21); Claim Nos: CFI-012-2020; CFI-086-2020; CA-003-2021 – Instructed on behalf of the claimant bank at first instance and on its successful appeal in a case concerning recognition in the DIFC of judgments from other jurisdictions, including for the purposes of the statutory res judicata provision Art 5(A)(4) of the Judicial Authority Law (instructed by Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP).
(2021) – Led by Professor Jonathan Harris KC (Hon.) and Philip Jones KC, provided advice in relation to questions relating to head of state immunity and the justiciability of factual issues concerning a head of state.
GDE LLC & Goffe v Anglia Autoflow Limited [2020] EWHC 105 (Comm) – Acted, with Professor Jonathan Harris KC (Hon.), for the successful defendant at a 5-day trial of a preliminary issue as to choice of law under Rome Convention; extensive drafting, conducted cross-examination at trial and oral advocacy on an interlocutory application (instructed by Birketts LLP).
Municipio de Mariana & Ors v BHP Group (2018-2019) – Instructed as part of the team acting for the claimants in one of the largest group actions to come before the English court, arising from the collapse of the Fundão Dam in Brazil in 2015. The dam collapse has been described as the worst environmental disaster in Brazilian history (instructed by SPG Law).
KBC Aldini Capital Limited v David Baazov & Ors [2017] DIFC CFI 002 – Acted, with Rupert Reed KC, for a Canadian internet entrepreneur in a jurisdiction challenge pertaining to a USD 40m fraud claim in the DIFC relating to allegedly forged equity commitment letters filed in support of a ‘go private’ bid (instructed by Norton Rose Fulbright).
Acted (with Professor Jonathan Harris KC (Hon.)) in relation to a potential claim against the English guarantor of a debt owed by a French company to a Monégasque bank which had subsequently been assigned to a BVI company owned by a subset of the guarantors. The case involved complex jurisdiction and choice of law issues and an issue regarding the possible connivance in the default of their co-guarantor by the shareholders in the potential claimant (2017-2018) (instructed by Charles Russell Speechlys).
Smith v Huertas – Instructed (with Jennifer Haywood), for the respondent in relation to an application for a declaration under Regulation 44/2001 art.34(1) that it would be manifestly contrary to public policy for the UK to recognise and enforce a French judgment (instructed by Boodle Hatfield).

Telecommunications & Information Technology

Recent Cases

Fraud & IT Systems (2025) – Led by Rupert Reed KC, Adrian is acting in a fraud and IP matter arising from alleged wrongdoing relating to inter alia the information technology systems of companies incorporated in the UAE.
ESG Global (Energy) Limited v Pozitive Energy Limited & Ors (2025-ongoing) – Led by Matthew Morrison KC, Adrian acts for the claimant in this software copyright and breach of confidence matter.
CyberOcean Limited v Supercraft Limited & Ors (2025) – Instructed by JMW LLP – Adrian acts for the 1st and 2nd Defendants in this software copyright and fraud IPEC matter.
Confidential Information (2024) – Acting for the claimant in action against a former employee for breach of confidence (instructed by Potter Clarkson LLP).
Software Copyright (2024) – Acting for the claimant in a claim for infringement of copyright in software (instructed by JMW LLP).
Harrington v Wells – Acting for the defendant in a High Court claim concerning alleged deceit in relation to an investment in a company developing data management and processing software for the telecoms industry (instructed by IBB).
INVISTA v Botes & Ors [2019] EWHC 58 (Ch); [2019] EWHC 58 (Ch); [2019] 1 WLUK 170; [2019] EWHC 1086 (Ch); [2019] EWHC 1087 (Ch); [2019] EWHC 1088 (Ch) – Acted, unled, for the successful defendants in this dispute involving allegations that research scientists formerly employed by INVISTA had acted in breach of confidence, in breach of pre- and post-termination employment covenants and had procured breaches of contract by a third party. Successfully resisted summary judgment one month before trial (before Arnold J.). Represented the defendants at the 7-day trial before Birss J., at which the breach of confidence, post-termination and procuring claims were dismissed, and at 5 hearing days in relation to consequential matters. The case was notable for the costs result. Birss J. held that a part 36 offer made four months before trial by the claimants had not been a genuine offer to settle and this was one of the rare cases in which it was therefore unjust to enforce any of the consequences of CPR 36.17(4). Birss J. accordingly made a costs award in favour of the defendants.

Company

Recent Cases

(2025-ongoing) – Led by Rupert Reed KC, Adrian is acting in very substantial matter arising from alleged wrongdoing relating to the management of two corporate groups based in the UAE and UK, respectively.
Harrington v Wells – Acted for the defendant in a High Court claim concerning alleged deceit in relation to an investment in a company developing data management and processing software for the telecoms industry (instructed by IBB).
Sigley v Southern – Adrian acted for the respondent to a s.994 unfair prejudice petition.
HRH Prince Abdulaziz Bin Mishal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud v Apex Global Management Ltd – Assisted Daniel Lightman KC in complex s.994 proceedings.

Group Litigation

Recent Cases

Municipio de Mariana & Ors v BHP Group – Adrian was instructed for the claimants in one of the largest group actions to come before the English court, arising from the collapse of the Fundão Dam in Brazil in 2015.

Testimonials

“Adrian is a detail-oriented, focused and diligent barrister who provides pragmatic and realistic responses to client or solicitor proposals while never neglecting the client’s stated goal.”

Chambers & Partners 2026

“Adrian's attention to detail has been impressive. He was proactive and approachable throughout. Adrian was particularly impressive on his feet and agile with his advocacy.”

Chambers & Partners 2026

“Adrian's work advising on IP disputes is of the highest quality. Adrian's draft pleadings on complex IP matters stand up to the scrutiny of years of subsequent litigation.”

Chambers & Partners 2026

Latest

Recent Cases

D.W. Windsor Limited v Urbis Schreder Ltd [2025] EWHC 563 (IPEC)

Judgment has been handed down in D.W. Windsor Limited v Urbis Schreder Ltd [2025] EWHC […]

Judgment handed down in High Court Appeal Bionome v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch)

Judgment has been handed down in Bionome v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch), an interesting […]

Bionome v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch)

Judgment has been handed down in Bionome v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch), an interesting High Court […]

Recent News

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For general enquiries and instruction advice, please contact our Practice Management Team:

Call: +44 (0)20 7242 6105
or email: clerks@serlecourt.co.uk

Appointments

Registered Part II Practitioner before the DIFC Courts (2019)

Recommendations

Intellectual Property (Legal 500)
Intellectual Property (Chambers UK)

Publications

Easy Rent a Car Ltd v Easygroup Ltd, Intellectual Property Magazine (20 March 2019)

Education, Qualifications and Awards

Queen Mother’s Scholarship, Middle Temple
Burroughs-Wellcome Fellowship, Princeton University
Centennial Fellowship, Princeton University
Oxford Postgraduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Law & Practice
BPTC (Outstanding), City University London
GDL (Distinction), City University London
PhD Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University
BA Biological Sciences (Double First), New College, Oxford

Languages

French

BSB Registration

Adrian Jacques Marie Lucas De Froment

VAT Number

195676843

Areas of Expertise

Commercial Litigation

Recent Cases

Civil Fraud

Recent Cases

Intellectual Property

Recent Cases

International

Recent Cases

UAE & DIFC Litigation

Recent Cases

Trusts & Probate

Recent Cases

Private International Law

Recent Cases

Telecommunications & Information Technology

Recent Cases

Company

Recent Cases

Group Litigation

Recent Cases

Testimonials

Latest

Recent Cases

D.W. Windsor Limited v Urbis Schreder Ltd [2025] EWHC 563 (IPEC)

Judgment handed down in High Court Appeal Bionome v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch)

Bionome v Clearwater [2024] EWHC 3155 (Ch)

Recent News

Serle Court at Dubai Arbitration Week 2025

Serle Court achieves outstanding results in The Legal 500 UK Bar 2026

The Lawyer Top 20 Cases 2024

The second edition of Contentious Trade Mark Registry Proceedings has now been published by CITMA

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Recommendations

Publications

Education, Qualifications and Awards

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