Stephen Shotnes

Partner
Dispute Resolution

+44 20 3206 2706
Email Stephen
stephen.shotnes@smb.london
LinkedIn

Stephen is a Partner in the Media and Dispute Resolution teams. He also heads up SMB’s data protection unit.

He is a leading practitioner in media, commercial & film litigation, and in the regulatory field. He has specialist expertise in sports, regulatory matters, data protection, defamation & privacy as well as generally in investigative and forensic work. Before entering the law, Stephen gained a broad experience base as a journalist, a parliamentary researcher, and as an editor. which equips him with a wider perspective on the role of legal issues within the larger context of commerce and public opinion.

Chambers UK states that Stephen is “a phenomenal litigator”.” He has previously been described by the guide as “sharp as a whip…a tenacious litigator”. The Legal 500 recommended Stephen, whilst previous editions have hailed him as “one of the best forensic solicitors, with a great nose for a case” and credited his “particular expertise in forensic cases where evidence is of high importance”.

Testimonials

“Partners Martin Soames and Stephen Shotnes – former book editor and journalist respectively – add their in house expertise to deep legal knowledge offer a high level of service.” Legal 500, 2023

“Stephen Shotnes – a highly experienced litigator; one of the best (if not the best) tacticians in the game. No spot is too tight for Stephen to be able to find a way (or ways) out of it.” Legal 500, 2022

“Stephen Shotnes has excellent judgement, fights his client’s corner fiercely and is well respected.” Legal 500, 2021

“Tenacious, diligent and thinks outside of the box.” Legal 500, 2018

  • ‘Stephen Shotnes is a highly skilled and experienced lead solicitor, who demonstrates a strong balance of legal procedure, knowledge and pragmatism in commercial litigation.’

    Legal 500, 2025
  • “Partners Martin Soames and Stephen Shotnes – former book editor and journalist respectively – add their in house expertise to deep legal knowledge offer a high level of service.”

    Legal 500, 2023
  • “A good man to have in your corner.”

  • “Conscientious, robust, street-smart litigator.”