Saima Hanif KC

3 Verulam Buildings

For many barristers, taking silk can coincide with a dip in workloads, but 3VB’s Saima Hanif QC’s practice has moved her into the super leagues since she earned the sought-after accolade earlier last year.

Hanif’s versatility has seen her carve a niche that crosses financial services regulation, public law and commercial law. Last year she was part of an army of barristers who helped strike out a £1.5bn claim pursued by the Kingdom of Denmark in the mammoth SKAT litigation.

With her extensive knowledge of the financial services markets, Hanif is gaining popularity with high-profile clients who are under investigation. Later this year she will challenge the Financial Conduct Authority over its decision to privately prosecute Robin Forster, who ran Qualia Care Developments and Qualia Care Properties prior to their collapse, and who is accused of running “unauthorised” collective investment schemes.

It is not the only high-profile case Hanif has lined up this year, a indication of her tenacity and skill. With City regulators flexing their muscles, she can look forward to a bumper 2022 during which she could take a starring role on the front pages alongside her clients.