Christian Charles

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I am a construction lawyer with particular expertise in the resolution of disputes arising from construction and engineering projects in the UK and internationally.

I help clients to anticipate and resolve problems that arise in the course of construction and engineering projects, including issues such as payment, variations, delays, defects and termination.

My clients come from all corners of the industry, from funders and developers to contractors, sub-contractors and consultants. I advise on issues as they arise in ‘real time’, allowing clients to focus on project delivery with a view to 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, dispute boards, arbitration and litigation. I am also experienced in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) procedures, in particular mediation.

My practice covers a wide range of industry sectors, with a particular focus on PFI / PPP, green energy and offshore construction projects. I am familiar with most of the major forms of contract including JCT, NEC, IChemE and FIDIC.

Away from work, when I am not spending time with my family I am a passionate (and long-suffering) supporter of the Scarlets and Wales rugby teams.

Contact Christian

Acting for PFI projects companies in serial adjudication and arbitration proceedings against the main contractor in respect of latent defects in a portfolio of UK PFI projects.
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 an EPC contractor in connection with upstream and downstream claims arising from the construction of anaerobic digestion (biogas) plants in the UK.
Advising an EPC contractor in connection with the settlement of a £25 million final account dispute in relation to a new energy from waste facility.
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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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

I have worked closely with Chris Charles on a PFI claim for a number of years. He is very analytical, able to communicate effectively and persuasively and he turns work around very quickly.
Legal 500, 2025

Chris is a very good lawyer who is also customer-focused and brings commercial awareness to his advice.
Chambers UK, 2025

Christian Charles has wisdom beyond his years. He has a very impressive intellect and works prodigiously hard for his clients. He is always calm in a crisis and has a well-deserved reputation for being a rising star in the sector.
Chambers UK, 2024