This webinar explores how contract cases are being decided in light of COVID-19.

It will give an introduction on the important steps taken by government in introducing legislation, and at policy level, to give businesses “breathing space” as a result of the pandemic. In addition, it will address issues on enforcement of judgements and mediated settlement agreements post Brexit.

This session, led by Rebecca Attree, will cover a number of key topics, including:

• Questions of force majeure, frustration and unjust enrichment in the light of the pandemic

• The Business Interruption insurance case of FCA v Arch Insurance (UK) Ltd and others [2020] EWHC 2448 (Comm)

• The Debt Respite Scheme (Breathing Space Moratorium and Mental Health Crisis Moratorium) (England and Wales) Regulations 2020 (the Breathing Space Regulations) - (Expected to come into force May 2021)

• The Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020 (Coronavirus) (Extension of the relevant period) Regulations 2020

• Similar approaches internationally such as in Singapore and Italy

• The effect of the UK government’s policy of encouraging mediation and conciliation to resolve disputes

• The current status of The Brussels Regulation, The Lugano Convention, the Hague Convention and the Singapore Mediation Convention from a UK perspective

The insights and knowledge from this webinar will enhance your ability to:

• Give current and timely advice to commercial clients in difficulties as a result of COVID-19

• Understand how commercial law and dispute resolution practice in the UK is changing

• Understand steps being taken globally to change the legal landscape following the pandemic

• Advise on the current position regarding international enforcement of judgements and mediated settlement agreements from a UK perspective

Who is this webinar for?

While this webinar is aimed at a general business audience, we highly recommend for solicitors, barristers, in-house lawyers or other professionals engaged in dispute resolution. Also suitable for International law students.

We expect demand for this session to be high, so early booking is recommended.

About the presenter

This session will be led by Rebecca Attree, an accredited civil, commercial and workplace mediator and solicitor.

With 25 years’ experience, Rebecca specialises in helping parties resolve commercial and workplace disputes. She is ranked as a leading mediator in Legal 500 UK 2019 and is listed in Chambers & Partners 2018 Review of Mediators. Her main sectors of expertise include mediating commercial contracts, workplace disputes, aviation, property, construction and family office – this includes considerable experience of international disputes.