Firms To Watch: Insolvency and corporate recovery

Browne Jacobson LLP is taking major steps to build out its restructuring and insolvency practice, hiring Stephen George, Amy Keogh, and Sally Parkes from Irwin Mitchell in September 2023.

Insolvency and corporate recovery in West Midlands

DLA Piper

DLA Piper is able to give ‘robust advice’ regarding a broad spectrum of insolvency and restructuring issues, particularly in the automotive, hospitality, leisure and consumer services sectors. The practice is spearheaded by Huw Dolphin, who has expertise in corporate restructuring, refinancing and insolvency work, as well as advising on financial structurings, reconstructions and workouts. Deborah Brown strengthens the team with her experience of non-contentious work, alongside handling distressed real estate assets, financial restructurings and in the disposal of distressed businesses. Associate Aino Miles is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Huw Dolphin


Other key lawyers:

Deborah Brown; Aino Miles


Testimonials

‘A broad offering of specialisms enables robust advice to be given in the most complex cases.’

‘Good combination of regulatory and trust law knowledge.’

Key clients

Interpath


Alvarez & Marsal


HSBC Bank plc


NatWest


Lombard North (Central) plc (part of NatWest)


Kroll Advisory Limited


FTI Consulting


HSBC Equipment Finance Limited


Dignity plc


Compass Plc


Work highlights


  • Advising Kroll Advisory Limited (and Lloyds Bank Plc as lender) on the administration sale of the Hotel and Marco Pierre White restaurant at the Cube, Birmingham under a strict timetable dictated by the hosting of a global event, the Commonwealth Games.
  • Acted for Dignity Funerals on two ongoing rescues of insolvent funeral plan providers.
  • Advising FTI Consulting on administration and the sale of the business and assets of LIFX Limited.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP

Providing ‘commercial and pragmatic advice’, the Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP practice has expertise in numerous sectors including energy, retail and real estate, with notable strengths in the former particularly. The practice is jointly led by Andrew Jordan, who is capable of leading complex restructuring matters in a wide array of sectors, and the ‘top-quality’ Jenna Poulton, who is experienced in distressed banking, asset-based lending and club/syndicated restructurings, to name a few. Anne-Louise Lawrence bolsters the team with notable capability in handling real estate matters.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Jordan; Jenna Poulton


Other key lawyers:

Anne-Louise Lawrence


Testimonials

‘The Eversheds team provide commercial and pragmatic advice, tailored to the needs of the situation.’

‘They go out of their way to support their clients with their advice and support.’

‘Jenna Poulton is a top-quality lawyer, she is very strong technically, and a strident advocate for her client’s position.’

‘Jenna Poulton has a good appreciation of both commercial and strategic considerations.’

‘Eversheds are a quality advisor who combine detailed focus with commerciality.’

‘My main contacts, Jenna Poulton and Andrew Jordan, give straight forward, clear advice backed by experience and strong sector expertise.’

Key clients

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


Interpath Advisory (formerly KPMG Restructuring)


Teneo Restructuring Limited (formerly Deloitte Restructuring)


FRP Advisory LLP


Alvarez and Marcel


Livingbridge Private Equity


Kroll Restructuring


CMME Group Limited


Grant Thornton UK LLP


Work highlights


Gateley Legal

Gateley Legal team of ‘excellent communicators’ has extensive experience in handling both the contentious and transactional aspects of insolvency and restructuring. On the contentious side, headed by Mark Wilson, the firm has undertaken recent work that includes auditor liability, fraud claims and risk work, as well as actions against insolvency practitioners and officers. On the transactional side, headed by ‘true market-leader’ Daniel French, the firm handles a variety of matters, including, but not limited to, security structures, regulatory issues and director’s duties matters. Its spectrum of clients ranges from equity funds, accountants, secured lenders and creditors. Victoria Portman adds to the depth of the team with her litigation expertise.

Practice head(s):

Mark Wilson; Daniel French


Other key lawyers:

Victoria Portman


Testimonials

‘The team at Gateley Legal are excellent communicators who go above and beyond to ensure the efficient progression of the cases in which they provide legal advice.’

‘Victoria Portman has an ability to cut through the issues on a case and get to the key points in order to find a resolution. She is responsive and very much puts her all into getting a positive result.’

‘Very experienced and commercial in approach. Good communication style and organised – they make it clear in advance the timelines, deadlines and set expectations for delivery or input.’

‘Responsive, technically strong. Always on hand to discuss through topics and cover practical application.’

‘Attention to detail and personal service set the firm apart in the local area. They can mobilise a diverse and multifaceted team to deal with the largest of matters when required to.’

‘The friendly and personal nature of communication. They are all razor sharp as well, which helps.’

‘Gateley’s restructuring practice is a highly pragmatic and commercial business, whilst also being technically strong. They understand the wider commercial position on a transaction rather than focusing on unimportant legal points, which is essential to us where we typically complete a deal under significant time pressure.’

‘Daniel French is the reason we use Gateley, he is a true market leader and always “has the back” of his client, with risk always appropriately considered whilst demonstrating a clear understanding of the commercial position of any engagement.’

Key clients

Grant Thornton UK LLP


RSM Restructuring Advisory LLP


Teneo Restructuring Limited


BDO LLP


Begbies Traynor (Central) LLP


EY Cayman Ltd


PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


Interpath Ltd


Alvarez & Marsal Europe LLP


FRP Advisory


Duff & Phelps LLP


Haslers LLP


Butcher Woods


Smith and Williamson


Azets Holdings Limited


AIB


Santander


Rcapital Partners


Work highlights


Pinsent Masons LLP

Pinsent Masons LLP acts for a broad range of stakeholders, including funders, customers and corporates. The practice has recently been active in the automotive sector, handling supply chain issues, as well as working on the development of restructuring plans for use in the mid-market. Practice head Amy Flavell acts on restructuring matters that involve invoice finance and asset-based lending, alongside undertaking a range of advisory roles in the automotive and aerospace sectors. Edward Sunderland advises banks and borrowers on all forms of asset-backed financing, while Samantha Palmer specialises in regulatory and restructuring assistance to professional practices, including law firms.

Practice head(s):

Amy Flavell


Other key lawyers:

Edward Sunderland; Samantha Palmer; Carl Scott; Sarah Robinson


Testimonials

‘They are a leading firm in the region led by Amy Flavell who has a great reputation.’

‘They are clearly a go-to firm.’

‘Amy Flavell is very experienced, especially in CVAs and Restructuring plans. She is attentive and client friendly. She has a great team around her too.’

Key clients

Begbies Traynor


Grant Thornton UK LLP


Moorfields Advisory Ltd


RSM Restructuring Advisory LLP


Shell Energy Retail Limited


Work highlights


  • Advising Shell Energy Retail Limited on its various appointments as a supplier of last resort in relation to the ongoing energy crisis, which is set to continue throughout 2023.
  • Advising Grant Thornton LLP as nominees and former supervisors of the Company Voluntary Arrangement of Regis UK Limited, a national chain of hairdressers with 200 stores operating under the Regis and Supercuts brands.
  • Advising RSM Restructuring Advisory LLP in relation to the appointment of liquidators of St Mary’s Sixth Form College, Blackburn.

Shoosmiths LLP

Shoosmiths LLP has considerable experience in advising lenders in the retail, financial services and construction spaces. Its client roster includes banks, financial institutions, accountancy firms and distressed private equity houses. James Keates runs the practice, with significant expertise in advising an expansive range of clients on issues relating to distressed lending, corporate recovery and corporate insolvency, with notable strength in the retail sector. Key contact Aaron Harlow advises on a broad range of matters, while Charlotte Duce has recently handled issues arising from distressed investments.

Practice head(s):

James Keates


Other key lawyers:

Aaron Harlow; Charlotte Duce; Lee Sennett


Testimonials

‘Aaron Harlow is a solicitor who’s prepared to give an opinion which is becoming rarer and rarer!’

‘Practical and commercial and very responsive.’

Key clients

Teneo Restructuring (formerly the restructuring arm of Deloitte LLP)


RSM Restructuring Advisory LLP


Interpath Advisory (formerly the restructuring arm of KPMG LLP)


PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


RBS


Alvarez & Marsal Europe LLP


FRP Advisory LLP


Kroll (formerly) Duff & Phelps Ltd


ReSolve Advisory LLP


Bibby Financial Services Limited


Work highlights


  • Advised Joules Limited in connection with its proposed CVA and thereafter the team advised Interpath Advisory Limited in connection with the sale of the business and assets of Joules to Next Plc.
  • Advising insolvency practitioners from Teneo Financial Advisory Limited in their capacity as special administrators of Sova Capital Limited (“Sova”) which entered special administration in early 2022 due to the impact of sanctions placed on Russia as a result of the war in Ukraine.
  • Advised Mizen Design / Build Limited, with Quantama Advisory LLP acting as supervisors, on the successful implementation of a CVA following the company’s business being significantly impacted by Brexit and the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Freeths LLP

Freeths LLP handles bankruptcy and asset recovery work, as well as contentious work in the corporate insolvency area, counting corporate, lender and funds clients in their roster. The ‘commercial’ John Jeffreys leads the practice with vast experience in restructuring and insolvency work, primarily handling non-contentious and transactional issues. Mike Gilmour, who jointly leads the team, offers expertise in the field of contentious insolvency and asset recovery work. Senior associate Grace Millar advises on both non-contentious and contentious insolvency issues, including pre-pack and post-appointment sales of company assets and businesses.

Practice head(s):

John Jeffreys; Mike Gilmour


Other key lawyers:

Grace Millar


Testimonials

‘Experienced, knowledgeable, commercial and pragmatic.’

‘Good value.’

‘John Jeffreys is a hands-on commercial insolvency lawyer with a huge amount of experience.’

‘John Jeffreys always responds quickly, and his work is best in class.’

Key clients

Grant Thornton UK LLP


BDO LLP


RSM UK Restructuring & Advisory LLP


Begbies Traynor Central LLP


Alvarez & Marsal LLP


Evelyn Partners


Mazars LLP


Allied Irish Bank (GB)


ReSolve Advisory Limited


Interpath Advisory


Savills LLP


Colliers International


Hilco Global


Poppleton & Appleby LLP


Moorfields CR


PKF Smith Cooper LLP


Travis Perkins PLC


Work highlights


  • Acting as the joint administrators of Vivarail Limited, handling administration asset sales and other issues.
  • Advised The Deltic Group on restructuring issues and ultimately its sale to REKOM Group via a pre-packed administration and have continued to act as their administrators, handling transfer of freehold and leasehold estate and complex litigation claims, amongst other issues.
  • Advising LPA Receivers of Regal Food Limited and M&Z Real Estate on a number of issues, including handling a portfolio of properties and advising on interaction between corporate and partnership obligors and personal guarantors.

Gowling WLG

Working for clients in a broad range of sectors, Gowling WLG handles insolvency issues for pension trustees, suppliers and UK-wide regulatory bodies. Jasvir Jootla helms the practice, working for numerous stakeholders in distressed situations. Ian Weatherall adds depth to the team with his experience as an insolvency litigator, whilst senior associate Emily Rust‘s strengths lie in corporate recovery, advisory and debt restructuring work.

Practice head(s):

Jasvir Jootla


Other key lawyers:

Ian Weatherall; Emily Rust


Key clients

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP


Grant Thornton (UK) LLP


Teneo Restructuring LLP


BDO LLP


Interpath Advisory Ltd


EY UK LLP


Lloyds Bank plc


HSBC UK Bank plc


The Board of the Pension Protection Fund


FRP Advisory


Smith & Williamson LLP


HSBC UK Bank plc


Daiwa Capital Markets Europe Ltd


SmartestEnergy


Dalriada Trustees Limited


Coventry City Council


Work highlights


  • Advised HSBC Bank UK Plc and the administrators of the Big Prawn Co. Ltd and its shareholder Melton Constable Investments Limited on the sale of the business and certain assets of the UK based shellfish and shrimp supplier.
  • Acted for Daiwa in relation to the appointment of the administrators of DeTrafford Sky Gardens Ltd, DeTrafford (Regiment) Limited and DeTrafford Gallery Gardens Block A Ltd. These companies operated a property development business in Manchester, and are part of the wider DeTrafford group of companies, some of which entered administration last year.
  • Advising on the insolvency/restructuring aspects along with the firms’ Pensions Team on the significant scheme rescue of the McColls pension scheme when McColls appointed PWC.

Harrison Clark Rickerbys

The ‘effective and agile’ team at Harrison Clark Rickerbys regularly operates in five sectors: namely, construction, finance, healthcare, education and defence. Recently, the firm has been involved in a number of restructuring matters. Practice head Sam Payne handles advisory and transactional work, often for insolvency practitioners and lenders. In addition, Alan Meiklejohn has recently advised lenders and secured creditors together on a variety of recovery and insolvency issues, with Hayley Phelps strengthening the team with her experience in advisory and transactional work. Stuart Taylor joined the practice in July 2022 from Pinsent Masons LLP .

Practice head(s):

Sam Payne


Other key lawyers:

Alan Meiklejohn; Hayley Phelps; Stuart Taylor


Testimonials

‘I find the team’s approach to be fast, effective and agile.’

‘They are ready to move at short notice to deliver a great outcome.’

‘Alan Meiklejohn understands both the strategic and detailed objectives of the issues and works hard to find a solutions-based outcome.’

‘Sam Payne is commercially astute and able to leverage those positions.’

‘The team headed by Sam Payne is well rounded, pragmatic and cost effective, covering all types of corporate insolvency assignments.’

‘Sam Payne is a very commercial pragmatic restructuring solicitor who had experience in dealing with a very wide range of challenging assignments.’

Key clients

Quantuma Advisory Limited


Begbies Traynor


McAlister & Co


PBC Insolvency


Interpath


Mazars


RSM Restructuring Advisory LLP


FRP Advisory


Alvarez & Marsal


Thincats


Triple Point


BDO


Leonard Curtis


Smith Cooper


Butcher woods


Work highlights


  • Acted for Quantuma Advisory Limited as the proposed and then joint administrators of CPD Realisations Limited (formally Sleep Design Limited) and the subsequent pre-pack sale of the business and assets to a third party following the affects to the company caused by COVID and then other economic headwinds.
  • Acted for Tricorn Group PLC, a locally based engineering business whose UK trading division had previously entered administration. Working alongside Alvarez & Marsal in relation to the sale of the business and assets of the PLC in particular a US Subsidiary and the proposed realisation of its interest in a joint venture company based in China.
  • Acted for Mazars as proposed and then actual administrators of Almor Limited being a company involved in the manufacture, refurbishing and repair of furnaces. The company had experienced financial headwinds together with a reduced order book causing it to go into administration. Acted on the appointment and the sale of the company’s assets and continue to deal with a number of property issues across all 3 sites that the company had previously traded from.

Shakespeare Martineau LLP

As a ‘proactive and diligent’ team with ‘technical strength’, Shakespeare Martineau LLP handles contentious and transactional matters for insolvency practitioners and lenders, as well as advisory projects for corporates. It works for clients in banking and financial services, as well the education and energy sectors. Practice head Andrew Taylor, who is ‘commercial and approachable’, advises on a broad array of matters, with notable expertise in relation to energy company insolvencies. Legal director Sheena Tandy advises on corporate and personal insolvency, including both contentious and non-contentious aspects.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Taylor


Other key lawyers:

Sheena Tandy


Testimonials

‘I have worked with Shakespeare Martineau for 15 years. I find all of the team to be conscientious, hard-working and dedicated to providing a good response to queries raised on any of the cases they’re handling. They work collaboratively and try to ensure that the best possible outcome is achieved.’

‘Andrew Taylor is knowledgeable, commercial and approachable. He will give advice in a timely manner and will ensure his team always delivers good service.’

‘Ready to go the extra mile to ensure a high-quality service and putting the client first.’

‘Andrew Taylor and his team are professional, proactive and diligent.’

‘Andrew Taylor strikes the right balance between ensuring the client’s position is protected and achieving a realistic outcome.’

‘The team is highly experienced, commercial and a pleasure to work with. I am confident that whatever issues come up, they will know how to deal with it. I have also found them to be exceptionally responsive out of normal working hours, which is welcome on complex and time-constrained insolvency matters.’

‘Andrew Taylor is very effective at ensuring work is carried out on time, to a high standard, and that we are happy afterwards. He has sound commercial judgment and a wealth of experience in the insolvency arena, meaning that I am confident that he can handle virtually any query.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau’s practice has always delivered excellent, clear advice at a reasonable price. They have good technical strength within the team and can always access subject-matter experts quickly if required. I have never gone to them with a query that they haven’t been able to advise on from within.’

Key clients

Teneo Restructuring (formerly Deloitte)


Kroll Advisory Ltd. (formerly Duff & Phelps)


Lloyds Banking Group


Quantuma LLP


Interpath Ltd – t/a Interpath Advisory[/KPMG LLP]


PwC LLP


FRP Advisory Trading Limited


Mazars


BDO


RSM


Leonard Curtis


Grant Thornton


Work highlights


  • Advised the joint Administrators of Iresa Limited on an application to the High Court to determine the creditor status of Ofgem and the successor energy companies (SoLR’s). The outcome of which determined how hundreds of millions of pounds should be distributed across the energy sector.
  • Advised the joint administrators of Eve Sleep Plc on the sale of certain assets and intellectual property to Bensons for Beds.
  • Advises the joint administrators on the administration of multiple entities within the Signature Hotel Group.

Squire Patton Boggs

With a ‘well-earned reputation for excellence’, Squire Patton Boggs possesses experience in a number of areas, such as energy, financial and banking restructuring as well as in sport. The practice is co-led by Devinder Singh, who has strengths in contentious insolvency and restructuring, as well as advisory work, with fellow co-lead Russell Hill specialising in reorganisations, restructurings, distressed disposals and corporate advisory work. Associate Oliver Ward-Jones is experienced in both contentious and non-contentious work.

Practice head(s):

Devinder Singh; Russell Hill


Other key lawyers:

Oliver Ward-Jones


Testimonials

‘SPB always demonstrate an exceptional technical understanding of insolvency matters, but unlike many other firms whilst taking risk seriously will be pragmatic and commercial to achieve the overall commercial objective of my firm.’

‘Russell Hill is an exceptional restructuring advisor.’

‘Russell Hill demonstrates a deep technical ability as well as an unrivalled understanding of the sector.’

‘Russell Hill is very much our go-to advisor for high-risk transactions and has supported us through difficult positions time and time again.’

‘Devinder Singh has an incredible wealth of experience in dealing with a range of insolvency and restructuring matters.’

‘Devinder Singh’s technical knowledge is sound and is complemented by a firm grasp of the commercial importance of issues.’

‘Devinder Singh provides smooth client service and can draw on all the resources of a large firm to assist clients, including corporate advice where required.’

‘Well-versed in complex corporate insolvency, both contentious and non-contentious.  A well-earned reputation for excellence.’

Key clients

Lloyds Bank


Interpath Advisory (formerly KPMG)


EY-Parthenon


Grant Thornton


Kroll


RCapital


FRP Advisory


Shawbrook Bank


OneSavings Bank plc


Sanderson Weatherall


Cambridge & Counties Bank


Frontier Development Capital


Evelyn Partners


Leonard Curtis


Opus Business Advisory Group


GXO plc


Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP


Work highlights


  • Restructuring and subsequent sale of shares in Archant Community Media Limited, the UK’s fourth biggest local newspaper publisher.
  • Advising on the successful prospective purchase of Bulsatcom a major Bulgarian Satellite Television, Internet and Mobile Operator.
  • Advising on the liquidation of Economy Energy Trading Limited.

FBC Manby Bowdler LLP

FBC Manby Bowdler LLP, a team that is ‘easy to work with’, is able to address the full spectrum of insolvency issues, including corporate group restructurings, asset sales, formal appointments and litigation. It also handles directors' disqualification actions and associated business advice under the leadership of Gareth Ruddock, who acts for businesses, institutions and private individuals; associate Claire Bentick handles the litigation aspects of insolvency.

Practice head(s):

Gareth Ruddock


Other key lawyers:

Claire Bentick


Testimonials

‘The team at FBC have an excellent breadth of knowledge and experience.’

‘They are well priced and provide a top-level service.’

‘They use technology well to manage documents and e-mails, so things are easily accessible.’

Key clients

Leonard Curtis Recovery Limited


Muras Baker Jones Limited


Telent Technology Services Limited


Savills (UK) Limited


BCRS Business Loans Limited


LXA Construction Limited


Work highlights


  • Representing the administrator of a manufacturing business which entered insolvency following a fire at their factory premises to bring a claim of at least £6m in value against the company’s insurance broker, insurance company and sub-contractor against a decline to cover the financial losses and negligence caused by that fire.
  • Representing a bankrupt who has been undischarged for 13 years following petition by the Post Office Limited based upon a debt under the Horizon Scandal. Applications seeking to set aside a judgment and to annul the Bankruptcy Order on the basis that it ought not to have been made.
  • Acting for Telent Technology Services Limited in obtaining an injunction to restrain the presentation of a Winding Up Petition on the grounds that the sums demanded were disputed. Injunction was granted and indemnity costs award obtained.

Sydney Mitchell LLP

‘Competence coupled with commerciality’, Sydney Mitchell LLP‘s practice routinely acts for borrowers, insolvency practitioners and litigation funders, among others, and is led by Leanne Schneider-Rose, who often handles contentious insolvency claims, with particular expertise regarding transactions at an undervalue, preference claims, transactions defrauding creditors and director’s misfeasance claims. Associate Heleena Gandham is also capable of addressing contentious issues, as well as advising on recovery options for a variety of clients.

Practice head(s):

Leanne Schneider-Rose


Other key lawyers:

Heleena Gandham


Testimonials

‘Competence coupled with commerciality, an effective and reassuring combination in tackling often non-linear issues, typically encountered in this particular practice area.’

‘Attention to detail is a hallmark of this firm, and they are very good in their work with insolvency practitioners.’

‘Leanne Schneider-Rose is a joy to work with. Her knowledge and approach allow for a constructive work environment between counsel and solicitor, and it is always a good team effort when working with Leanne – the sum is greater than the parts.’

‘The team work very well together, they are quick to respond to any query I have and are happy to explain their advice further if I don’t fully understand everything. The knowledge that the solicitors at Sydney Mitchell have is second to none.’

‘Leanne Schneider-Rose deals with all of my queries in a timely and professional manner. She is thorough, informative and knowledgeable and is at the top of her field. Leanne’s ability to see any potential risk and shield her clients from it is unmatched in the industry.’

‘We have worked with the Sydney Mitchell team over a number of years, and they are one of the first names that we think of when we require legal advice. They are fair and reasonable and understand that costs are a key point that we have to consider.’

‘The team is always on hand to assist with straightforward advice with a no-nonsense approach. Corners are never cut, and every aspect is always explored. Everyone is approachable and accountable.’

‘Leanne Schneider-Rose goes the extra mile and always tries to translate the complex legal insolvency framework into practical and useful solutions, no matter what the outcome for herself or her firm.’

Key clients

Dains Business Recovery Ltd


Poppleton & Appleby


FRP Advisory LLP


Smart Business Recovery Ltd


Skybridge Lending Ltd


Work highlights


  • Advised FRP and the lender in respect of their options following the appointment of a receiver over a building site which for a number of reasons had no value.
  • Advising Martin Smith of Dains Business Recovery in respect of an application made by a former director to rescind the winding up order and dealing with a remuneration application in respect of the Liquidators costs and expenses following the rescission order being made.
  • Advising a bridging lender in respect of its enforcement options against a borrower or borrowers unknown where a fraud had been committed against the lender to secure the lending.

The Wilkes Partnership

The Wilkes Partnership’s ‘skilled’ team covers contentious and non-contentious work for clients that include insolvency practitioners and directors. Practice head David Cleary has a broad practice acting for stakeholders such as directors, creditors and buyers, while Andrew Garland, a ‘highly competent professional’, often handles issues arising from the pursuit and defence of significant antecedent transactions and misfeasance claims, alongside a recent focus on tax avoidance cases.

Practice head(s):

David Cleary


Other key lawyers:

Andrw Garland; John Cooper


Testimonials

‘Andrew Garland is a highly competent professional, showed good judgment in the case we worked on together, and is demonstrably technically excellent in his area of specialism. A good tactician.’

‘They are skilled negotiators, litigators, and advisors, and are passionate about achieving the best possible outcomes for clients.’

‘Andrew Garland’s dedication to his clients is truly remarkable, and he consistently goes above and beyond to provide exceptional legal services. His unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible results, coupled with his exceptional skills as a lawyer, make him a highly sought-after and respected member of the legal community.’

‘I have worked both with and against Andrew Garland. He is a very good insolvency litigator.’

‘Our experience of the Wilkes Partnership is that they have the resources and expertise to deal with complex and multifaceted assignments in a commercial and efficient manner.’

‘Andrew Garland stood out due to his approachability and knowledge of often complex subject matters (tax law and insolvency) and was able to obtain the desired result in an efficient manner in an extremely tight timeframe.’

‘This team has a very strong presence in the market for insolvency work in the Midlands and beyond. The practice is known for its specialism in insolvency matters.’

‘The partner team at The Wilkes Partnership is particularly strong. David Cleary, Andrew Garland and John Cooper are exceptionally good partners who strive at every opportunity to meet client’s needs as effectively as possible.’

Key clients

Irwin Insolvency


Begbies (Central) Traynor LLP


Rendle & Co


BLB Advisory Limited


K J Watkin & Co


Butcher Woods


Muras Baker Jones


Poppleton & Appleby (Birmingham)


Voscap


Manolete Partners PLC


RG Insolvency


Greenfield Recovery


Griffin & King


Leonard Curtis


Ballard Business Recovery


F A Simms


Opus Restructuring & Insolvency


Expedium Limited


Bhardwaj Limited


Insolvency and Recovery limited


Oliver Elliot Limited


FRP


NDH Financial (Manchester)


Path Business Recovery (Manchester)


NTF Financial Solutions (Wilmslow)


Graywoods (Sheffield)


Revive Business Recovery (Doncaster)


Begbies Traynor (York)


RSM UK Creditor Solutions Ltd (Leeds)


Work highlights


Thursfields Solicitors

Recommended by clients as an ‘absolute delight to work with’, Thursfields Solicitors' practice advises on both contentious and non-contentious matters, with notable expertise regarding allegations of fraud.  The practice is led by Stephen Rome, who is retained by clients in the manufacturing and engineering sectors to handle matters that include breach of fiduciary, advanced push payment fraud and misrepresentation.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Rome


Other key lawyers:

Georgia Morris


Testimonials

‘When it comes to insolvency, the team at Thursfields are experienced and know exactly what they are talking about.’

‘They have superb relationships with IPs and accountants and are regularly entrusted with high-level litigation far beyond their competitors.’

‘They are an absolute delight to work with.’

Key clients

Ward Sheldrake Consultancy


Begbies Traynor (Central) LLP


Work highlights


  • Advising an individual in respect of claims worth in excess of £50m arising out of the collapse of an investment business. The litigation has involved a large number of creditors bringing various proceedings, including proceedings to appoint a provisional liquidator, a freezing injunction, proceedings to wind up the alleged partnership and bankruptcy proceedings. It has resulted in several decisions concerning the operation of the regime under the Insolvent Partnerships Order 1994.
  • Advising in respect of the collapse of a property investment scheme. Applying to set aside statutory demands based on contentious personal guarantee agreements and successfully petitioning for the winding up of a property management agent suspected of running a ponzi fraud which resulted in the collapse of the scheme.

Wright Hassall LLP

The ‘excellent’ Wright Hassall LLP specialises in acting on behalf of lenders on issues relating to disguised remuneration schemes for tax avoidance, alongside enforcement and appointment issues. Practice head Caroline Benfield ‘never fails to deliver an outstanding service’; she primarily acts for insolvency practitioners, but also a broad range of other clients are included on her roster. Elizabeth Taylor adds value to the team with her experience in pursuing and defending Insolvency Act claims.

Practice head(s):

Caroline Benfield


Other key lawyers:

Elizabeth Taylor


Testimonials

‘Wright Hassall provide an excellent insolvency litigation service which achieves great results at reasonable fees.’

‘Caroline Benfield never fails to deliver an outstanding service, her knowledge of the law practice and procedure of insolvency litigation is impressive.’

‘Caroline Benfield achieves great results and is proactive and commercial at all times.’

Key clients

Grant Thornton


Mazars


Quantuma


BRI


Ballard Business Recovery


Accura Accountants Business Recovery Turnaround Limited


Robert Day and Company Limited


Fieldstead Insolvency Limited


Opus Restructuring and Insolvency


FRP Advisory


Manolete Partners PLC


Merchant Money


BLB Advisory Ltd


Crowd With Us Ltd


Hilco/Ark


Work highlights


  • Advised a client in connection with a number of tax avoidance claims.
  • Advised a major high street retailer in connection with the liquidator of one of its suppliers.
  • Advised liquidators and litigation funders concerning a number of high-value claims against the director(s).