Tom is a leading Commercial Disputes partner who represents major organisations in significant disputes, sensitive corporate investigations and on fraud-related matters.

Tom is a hugely experienced litigation counsel to a number of well-known organisations, including those in the financial services, transport, fine art, media and technology sectors.

He heads Osborne Clarke's Accountancy & Professional Services team. He is regularly retained by major Accountancy firms in the resolution of professional negligence claims, on regulatory enforcement matters, and in relation to sensitive investigations.

Clients describe Tom as an exceptional lawyer whose experience and wealth of knowledge inspire confidence; and as a deep thinker who encourages his team to come up with imaginative solutions to advance clients' interests.

He is Band 1 listed by Chambers & Partners (9 years ranked) and a Tier 1 Leading Individual for Dispute Resolution (Legal 500). He is recognised by Who's Who Legal as a leading Asset Recovery lawyer.

He was head of our Commercial Disputes team from 2015 – 2023.

Helping you succeed in tomorrow's world

I relish the privilege of helping clients to resolve their disputes at a time of organisational challenge or crisis. I do this by applying my experience, deep thinking and energy to an empathetic understanding of clients' objectives and to the development of clear strategy. I believe that my calm, strategic approach helps to cut through the noise typical of many disputes, thereby enabling their effective resolution. 

"Tom Ellis is rightly regarded as an outstanding lawyer and one of the most successful commercial litigators of his generation."

Dispute Resolution/Commercial Litigation: Mid-market testimonial, Legal 500 2024

‘Tom Ellis – urbane and astute; able intuitively to understand what the client wants and to formulate the necessary strategy. Superb communicator.’

Corporate & Commercial/Financial Services: Contentious testimonial, Legal 500 2024

‘Tom Ellis’ experience and wealth of knowledge inspire confidence in both clients and members of the legal team. He is an exceptional lawyer.’

Dispute Resolution/Commercial Litigation: Mid-market testimonial, Legal 500 2024
Providence Investment Funds v PricewaterhouseCoopers CI LLP:

Acting for the Defendant in professional negligence proceedings before the Guernsey Court arising out of an alleged fraud committed in connection with the management of a Guernsey-based investment fund.

The Executive Counsel to the Financial Reporting Council v KPMG and others:

Acting for an individual Respondent in proceedings brought by the Executive Counsel to the Financial Reporting Council relating to KPMG’s audit of Carillion plc.

Northampton Borough Council v Cardoza:

Successfully acting for the claimant in a high profile misfeasance trial arising out of the affairs of a football league club.