Concerns Grow Over Legitimacy of Russian Wealth in UK Courts
Lawyers representing clients challenging sanctions in UK courts may inadvertently legitimize wealth acquired by Russian oligarchs, stirring ethical debates within the legal profession, reports 24brussels.
O’Kane from law firm Peters & Peters criticized the blurring of lines between clients’ views and those of their lawyers, stating, “If a lawyer acts for somebody who is challenging their sanctions, that doesn’t mean that they agree with Russia’s actions in Ukraine. This is just palpable nonsense.” However, questions linger about the moral implications of defending individuals who have benefited from a kleptocratic regime.
Taylor of Spotlight on Corruption highlighted the ethical dilemmas surrounding the legal representation of individuals whose wealth stems from a regime lacking the rule of law. She pointed out the inconsistency in allowing such individuals to leverage Britain’s robust legal framework to legitimize their acquired wealth.
“Law firms are not just ordinary businesses — they are members of a public profession who enjoy certain benefits that attach to their status, including secrecy with their client through a relationship of privilege, and those benefits are entrusted to them on the basis that they act ethically and in keeping with the public interest,” Taylor added.
Return of the Litigants
Despite the controversies, business has seen a resurgence. Recent data from London’s commercial courts indicates that Russian litigants are increasingly returning to British courts. After a decline in 2024, analysis by public affairs agency Portland reveals a “dramatic rebound” in 2025, featuring the highest number of Russian litigants since records began, totaling 60. This figure could rise further when considering Russian-owned businesses that have relocated headquarters outside of Russia.
