LONDON – Michelman Robinson today announces that Akshay Sewlikar has joined the firm as a partner in its Commercial and Business Litigation practice, further strengthening its international arbitration, complex litigation and investigations offering.
Dual-qualified in India and England and Wales, Akshay advises corporates, financial institutions and sovereigns on high-stakes disputes and regulatory inquiries. His practice spans international arbitration, English High Court litigation, and sensitive investigations, particularly in the financial services, energy, infrastructure and mining sectors.
Akshay brings over a decade of experience representing clients in proceedings under LCIA, ICC, SIAC and DIFC rules. He has a particular expertise in acting for and against states and state-owned entities.
He has acted in major sovereign bond arbitrations, bond litigations, regulatory inquiries and commercial fraud disputes, and was part of the team representing the Premier League in the first ever financial fair play proceedings against Everton FC.
He also has significant experience in financial crime, sanctions, antitrust and tax-related investigations. Akshay regularly advises on internal inquiries, whistle-blower issues, and cross-border defence strategies for high-profile institutions. He joins from Linklaters, where he was a Managing Associate in the arbitration and litigation group and was recognised as a “key lawyer” in Legal 500’s international arbitration rankings.
He previously served as a Judicial Assistant at the High Court of England and Wales and completed a secondment at an investment bank, overseeing disputes and regulatory matters across EMEA. Before moving to the UK, Akshay practised at the Bombay High Court, appearing in a range of civil, criminal and arbitration matters.
Akshay’s arrival marks another important step in M|R’s strategic growth in London, following the firm’s recent launch of its first international office. He joins alongside Daniel Burbeary, another partner in the firm’s Commercial and Business Litigation practice in London. The firm’s expansion also follows the formal integration of the firm’s Corporate Crime and Investigations group, which includes Ruth Paley, Polly Sprenger, John Gibson and Lily Dou.
“Akshay is a world-class disputes lawyer with the international perspective and depth of experience that reflects exactly what we’re building here in London,” said Sanford Michelman, the firm’s Chairman and Co-founder. “As we establish and expand our footprint, we are focused on attracting top-tier talent who can offer immediate value to our clients. Akshay’s arrival signals that intent.”
“This is an exciting time to be joining Michelman Robinson,” said Akshay Sewlikar. “The London office is growing with real momentum, and the firm’s energy, ambition and cross-border outlook immediately resonated with me. I’m looking forward to helping shape our London disputes and investigations offering from the ground up.”