A second Jordanian lawyer has filed a claim against international firm Dechert and one of its partners, alleging his human rights were violated during an investigation in the Middle East.

Jihad Quzmar, a former member of the Supreme Judicial Council of Ras Al Khaimah, claims Dechert and partner Neil Gerrard orchestrated or were involved in acts contrary to human rights law, including his unlawful abduction and detention.

Quzmar was subject of an investigation by Dechert into alleged frauds committed by associates of Sheikh Faisal, a potential rival to the current ruler of Ras Al Khaimah.

In a claim form filed with the High Court, Quzmar alleges he was kept in solitary confinement in a small, dirty cell; interrogated; and suffered inhuman or degrading treatment.

A spokesperson for Dechert said: ‘The allegations against the firm and its personnel are completely without foundation and we shall be vigorously defending ourselves against them.'

In April, Dechert and three current and former partners were accused of torture by Karam Al Sadeq – another Jordanian lawyer - who claimed he was kidnapped, interrogated and placed in solitary confinement for 560 days during an investigation conducted by the firm.

All respondents vigorously deny the claim.

Gerrard is due to retire at the end of the year after nine years at Dechert.