Cathal Leigh-Doyle
Partner
Cathal is an internationally recognised leading dispute resolution lawyer with particular expertise in the construction, energy and maritime sectors.
Partner
Cathal is an internationally recognised leading dispute resolution lawyer with particular expertise in the construction, energy and maritime sectors.
Languages - English
Jurisdictions - England & Wales, New York USA, Ireland
Cathal Leigh-Doyle is a seasoned international dispute resolution lawyer, particularly adept at navigating the complexities of the energy, construction and marine sectors. He represents industry leaders in the English courts, adjudications, DABs, and international arbitration, offering strategic insight and robust advocacy. His clients span renewable energy, oil & gas, insurance, technology, marine, and financial services, drawn by his ability to handle high-stakes disputes and intricate contractual negotiations. Cathal has represented clients in most major arbitration forums, including LMAA, LCIA, ICC, SIAC, and JAMS.
Beyond contentious matters, Cathal is also frequently engaged to draft and negotiate contracts for high-value international projects, particularly in the renewable energy and maritime sectors. He has extensive experience with complex bespoke and industry-standard forms, including EPC, EPCI, T&I, BIMCO, FIDIC, LOGIC, and NEC.
Cathal has been instructed on projects worldwide, with frequent engagements in the UK, EU, USA, and Asian markets. Clients value his approachability, responsiveness, and comprehensive grasp of commercial dynamics to protect and advance their interests.
He is also a guest lecturer at Swansea University’s Oil, Gas and Renewable Energy LLM and is frequently invited to speak at conferences and events globally.
International construction contractor
Defended a multi-million-dollar claim of frustration by a developer due to new government policies being introduced during the project.
Global offshore wind developer
Advised a global offshore wind developer on its standard long term charterparties for its upcoming campaigns in the UK and EU.
Heavy lift vessel owner
Advised an owner on all disputes with charterers on a long-term charterparty which included unpaid hire, non-compliance with H&S, insurance, redelivery and emergency operations offshore.
Insolvency recoveries
Advised a top 5 creditor in one of the largest insolvencies in the offshore sector over the last number of years.
Asian shipyard
Advised an Asian shipyard in a several million-dollar dispute against an owner for breaches of several finance and ship building contracts related to newbuild offshore vessels.
Logistic company
Advised a leading specialist in its negotiations and contract drafting of a transportation and storage agreement of high value and heavy equipment.
Boskalis Offshore Marine Contracting BV –and- Atlantic Marine and Aviation LLP [2019] EWHC 1213 (Comm)
Successfully represented a vessel owner obtain three LLMA arbitration awards for payment of unpaid invoices of several million pounds. Successfully defended Charterers' challenge of the three arbitration awards in the English High Court under s69 of the Arbitration Act 1996.
UK green hydrogen developer
Advised a developer on the purchasing and installation agreements for one of the first commercial hydrogen production facilities in the UK.
Endeavour Energy UK Ltd v Hess LTD (2017) QBD (Comm)
Represented an international oil and gas exploration company bring a multi-million claim for rig idle costs and breach of the JOA in the Commercial Court.
