Professional background
I have practised as a construction lawyer for 25 years advising clients on all aspects of projects in in the construction, infrastructure, engineering and support services sectors.
My primary area of expertise is in live project advice and in guiding clients including contractors and employers through disputes both informally by way of negotiation and formally in adjudication and litigation. I have acted on numerous complex multi-party disputes in the Technology and Construction Court and recent experience includes representing Volkerfitzpatrick in Blackpool BC v Volkerfitzpatrick [2020] EWHC 1523 (TCC).
I recognise that effective dispute resolution relies on building relationships with key stakeholders and opponents to find solutions that balance what often appear at the outset to be irreconcilable interests.
Having spent 20 years prior to Fieldfisher at a leading insurance legal practice my expertise also encompasses advising on coverage disputes arising under both first party and liability policies with particular expertise in professional indemnity and construction and property all risks insurance as well as navigating clients in claims against construction professionals and their professional indemnity insurers.
Awards & recognition
Authored pieces
Interpretation of Insurance Policies — NHBC v Peabody Trust [2025] EWCA Civ 932
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Dan Preston Partner, Head of Construction and ProjectsContentious ConstructionNon-Contentious ConstructionReal Estate
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Cecily Davis Partner, ConstructionConstructionEnergy and Natural ResourcesReal EstateTransport and Infrastructure
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Samantha Thompson Director, ConstructionCorporate and CommercialRenewable EnergyTechnology and Privacy
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Sarah Shafiq Senior Associate, ConstructionEnergy and Natural ResourcesReal EstateRenewables and SustainabilityTransport and Infrastructure
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What others say…
Well regarded for his legal knowledge and ability to find solutions to large infrastructure disputes
A brilliant litigator. He has an unusual ability to drive forward litigation whilst, at the same time, keeping his eyes fixed on trying to leverage a strong commercial deal
David Thorne is a respected construction lawyer with a strong track record of representing clients before the Technology and Construction Court.…..David is a safe pair of hands for any complex construction issue. He is responsive, easy to deal with and delivers advice in a measured and persuasive way. He's a super guy. He's commercial and very detailed when required.