Shakespeare Martineau LLP > London, England > Firm Profile

‘Shakespeare Martineau are excellent lawyers who give practical and accurate sector advice. Their knowledge of educational law is exceptional, and they keep pace with changes and issues which may impact higher education. They issue advanced notice of the changes and work with us to advise on individual cases, applying their expert knowledge while taking our practice into account.’

‘Smita Jamdar leads the team and gives very practical and straight-talking advice. She will recommend a course of action or tell us when we are doing something which may put us at risk.’

‘The team are extremely knowledgeable in their field and have a wealth of experience that enables them to provide legally-based, pragmatic advice and solutions. They are responsive at all times, approachable, and provide tailored advice that is accessible to non-legal colleagues.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau’s education has genuine expertise in higher education and is highly collaborative. The advice and service provided has been consistently excellent.’

‘Smita Jamdar is second to none in higher education. Geraldine Swanton is knowledgeable, highly responsive, and always a delight to work with.’

‘A great multi-disciplinary team with a can-do attitude.’

‘Roy Botterill is the stand-out partner for me.’

‘The practice in Lincoln has a very strong team in terms of legal knowledge but equally so in terms of the application of emotional intelligence when engaging with our team. The benefit from their engagement means that appropriate advice and solutions are discussed and the final route is not only correct but also meets our requirements.’

‘Helen Molloy is an exceptionally talented lawyer, whose judgement, speed of thought, yet personable approach is quite superb.’

‘The team always balance risk and pragmatism, demonstrating great commercial awareness alongside their legal expertise.’

‘Philip Pepper – great leadership of the team, pragmatic advice, excellent with complex and sensitive issues.’

‘The team is very responsive, pragmatic, innovative and commercial. They know our business well and understand the nuances of it.  They are solution focused and look at achieving the best outcome.’

‘Sandeep Leighs: Cannot praise her highly enough. She’s brilliant.’

‘2 years ago Shakespeare’s introduced an on-line portal that my HR team use on a regular basis: up-to-date information and guidance that enables us to resolve/deal with a range of legal questions. I particularly like the fact that they are not risk averse; they provide and explain in detail what options we should consider, point out the pros and cons, and then we make a decision.’

‘I particularly enjoy their seminars, great speakers, well attended by clients, which is a positive sign that clients are engaged with the company.’

‘Robert Rose- head of clinical negligence and a practitioner of the highest level of expertise and experience. He consistently builds a stronger and stronger team, both in the Midlands and London. Not only does he provide the valued adminstration and leadership of the team but he runs a heavy case load, with real expertise in high value birth injury cases. He is a modern Leviathan!

‘Kathryn Hart-Partner is a par excellence personal injury practitioner who has maintained her reputation as a leading claimant PI practitioner in the midlands. She is totally dedicated to her client’s interest and has accomplished client skills, which are matched only be her ability to negotiate beneficial settlements.’

‘Robert Rose is an experienced clinical negligence solicitor with a wealth of experience and knowledge. ’

‘A strong team in Birmingham and the East Midlands. Led by Robert Rose.’

‘Kathryn Hart is extremely personable and incredibly efficient. A solicitor and partner who really, truly cares about each and every one of her clients and their individual case. Kathryn will leave no stone unturned in her pursuit of justice and fair compensation for her clients. A brilliant lawyer, deserving of recognition for what she does for her clients and their cases.’

‘Kathryn Hart is exceptional in her approachability and she is always willing to help wherever she can.’

‘Professional and members of the team that are in contact know what is happening and willing to help’

‘Give clear and friendly advice and responses’

‘Sector leaders who have been such for many years, the movement of one to the firm being the reason why we engaged them.’

‘Catherine Rustomji is an exceptional legal professional, who I have worked with for eight years across a number of firms. She is responsive, calm and assured, provides very clear advice and is highly credible when presenting to third parties.’

‘The team always provide an expedient and reliable response to any queries.’

‘Catherine Rustomji is a pleasure to work with, she provides authoritative information and advice in a timely manner and really takes the time to help you understand the issue in addition to considering the wider context to ensure effective decision making is achieved. Catherine is a very trusted advisor who feels like one of the team. I have recommended her widely for a number of years and will continue to do so, her ability to interpret complex information is very impressive.’

‘The personal service is key – in particular I have worked closely with Andrew Wilkinson and Kuldeep Chauhan, and have found them to be very helpful and prompt with communications. They also provide meetings every couple of months to discuss the overall caseload, and provide ad hoc advice where asked for.’

‘The team at Shakespeare Martineau are incredibly knowledgeable about all aspects of contentious probate.’

‘Debra Burton is excellent on trusts and has a genuine interest in this area of law, and getting it right for her clients.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau have a very strong contentious trust and probate offering in the East Midlands. They act for a wide range of clients including a large number of big charities.’

‘Andrew Wilkinson heads the team and is very skilled litigator. He is uncompromising but always good to deal with when acting for an opponent. Debra Burton is certainly a rising star and very tenacious in looking to achieve the best outcomes for her clients.’

‘SM’s Contentious Trusts and Probate team has the rare balance of excellent client care together with a thorough knowledge of its practice area. The team is responsive and goes the extra mile in ensuring its clients are fully aware of the risks and benefits through the litigation process.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau is one of the biggest and best firms for trusts and probate work in the Midlands’

‘Debra Burton stands out for her sensible advice and her eye for litigation tactics.’

‘The firm is one of the best regarded in the East Midlands; for good reason. The client care and advice given by its solicitors is of the highest quality. I am always impressed when I receive briefs from the firm and I know that the clients are always given detailed and appropriate advice. The client care and attention to detail is exceptional.’

‘Stephanie Kyriacou – Stephanie is detailed and thoughtful when dealing with cases. She identifies the salient issues and is always well-prepared and her preparation of cases is of a very high quality. She always makes herself available for clients and Counsel and she is very highly regarded amongst the legal professionals in this area; for good reason.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau are a delight to work with. The whole team work very well together meaning that cases are always well covered. The advice is high quality, tactically astute and very good value for money.’

‘Katherine Marshall is an excellent lawyer. She is fierce in seeking the best deal for her client, but all the time providing down to earth advice.’

‘Strong team in Leicester, great depth of knowledge, sensible and caring. Always a please to have them on the other side and you know that you will be able to work with them to resolve issues.’

‘Katherine Marshall is approachable, knowledgeable, pragmatic and very good with clients. A good collaborative lawyer who considers the bigger picture

‘Stephanie Kyriacou is a good junior and one to watch for the future’

‘Shakespeare Martineau is very well represented in the East Midlands (and the West Midlands) for family work. They have a solid reputation for giving clear, practical and realistic advice.’

‘Suzanne Leggott is an outstanding leader of the team’

‘Excellent! the whole team are really responsive and proactive for our clients’

‘This team is particularly strong in agriculture and property transaction, they have a good extensive knowledge and hands on approach.’

‘Emma Carr: Very knowledgeable, and personable clients can relate to her she is an excellent team worker.’

‘Team is commercially savvy and always thinking what might be best for the client commercially rather than just legally. Pre-empt issues and consider things in the wider context.’

‘Very easy to work with, hard working and knowledgeable.’

‘I have dealt with John Buckley for many years now and always found his advice to be sound and helpful.’

‘Paul is my ‘go to’ Planner of choice. The breadth of knowledge is vast, his calm and patient explanation of the law is confidence building and he gets results.’

‘The team has a strong experience in large, nationally significant infrastructure projects. This is a unique and complicated field of planning practice and their skills and experience have greatly helped my Local Authority tackle the challenges of development of this scale.’

‘Julie Russell is really good at keeping up to date with the progress of applications, providing example representations for us to work from, and did an excellent job of gauging the Officer and Member attitudes towards a large scale development. She quickly consolidated large volumes of material into a concise response.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau Planning and environment team are always available and their advice is second to none. They provide free CPD Webiners on complex subjects through their partnership with Marrons Planning provide a full suite of legal planning services.’

‘They are customer focussed, ensuring they extend the range of their skills and expertise from the various difference partners to provide a great service’

‘They have taken an interest in our business and time to understand our key business drivers and customer base to ensure advice that they provide is not only the best legal advice but is tailored to ensure it fits with our business.’

‘Having a designated person assigned to our cases is very helpful. Back up from management is always there to discuss potential legal issues before we proceed, which is also a great thing to have, as it helps our decision making.’

‘Eddie Flanagan has been outstanding and offers the ability to advise across multiple areas easily and quickly, which has proven invaluable.’

‘They are responsive, proactive, timely and compared to London firms, cost-effective.’

‘As well as the matters in hand, they provide regular sectoral updates of relevance and training sessions for the staff on new areas of the law. They are generally very good to deal with, and we have an open, honest relationship with a number of partners.’

‘Eddie Flanagan is very accomplished, approachable and diligent. The team generally are practical and commercial; they offer sage advice without it being full of legalese. Our team like engaging with them and, on the day-to-day, see them as an extension of themselves.’

‘The team employs the latest case management technology to drive an efficient process and maximise successful client results in debt recovery. The practice has a wide range of clients across various sectors, attracted by their commitment to their robust regulatory compliance and truly getting to know client processes.’

‘Jayne Gardner has immense knowledge about the recoveries process. Jayne is approachable and gives practical, focused and commercial advice to guide clients to successful results.’

‘High-class service.’

‘All the staff I have dealt with have been very approachable. Have used online meetings rather than have to go to the office which has been very useful’.

‘Peter Snodgrass as always is very knowledgeable and helpful for the more complex aspects of a farm sale’.

‘The Stratford Office is particularly focused on agriculture and its associated legal problems. There is good advice over a whole range of subjects‘.

‘Peter Snodgrass is an extremely capable, clever and thoughtful solicitor, who is very interested in agriculture and its associated work. Jennie Wheildon is a very capable lawyer who is very good’.

‘The team is headed up by Peter Snodgrass and they are always ready to answer any conveyancing queries our clients or we may have’.

‘Having the Agricultural Dept readily available is invaluable to us , the rules and regulations constantly change and they are always up to date with these changes. Answers on farm tenancies, forestry, farm payment schemes and a myriad of other queries are always answered promptly’.

‘Jennie Wheildon is a delight to work with and instantly wins the confidence of our clients to solve any of the additional rules and regulations for overseas buyers. Jennie’s advice is always clear and her work is extremely thorough’.

‘ SM offer a superb service, whilst being totally approachable to both us as agents and to our clients. We will look forward to working with them again throughout the coming year’.

‘The team is efficient and empathetic and is expanding due to the exceptional qualities of the partners I deal with being Hannah Tait, Lesley Davis and Verity Kirby. The Associates Elaine Hart and Victoria Taylor work exceptionally hard and are knowledgeable across all sectors of Trusts and Probate’.

‘The team are incredibly personable and attentive to clients needs and requirements’.

‘Hannah Tait is an exceptional practitioner and has both exceptional technical ability, combined with a sublime ability to explain complex matters to clients of any level of knowledge and experience’.

‘Lesley Davis has built a really strong and knowledgeable team around her. Lesley always proves to be a really good people person’.

‘The team is very diverse from an ethnicity and gender perspective which I feel is increasingly important to clients. The team also has a very good range of ages which again is useful for clients as some clients prefer to deal with advisers/solicitors their own age. The team is incredibly knowledgeable’.

‘Their technical and working knowledge of the law is very impressive and their advice has resulted in many good results for my clients’.

‘Verity Kirby – Partner – Verity is an excellent example of a Private Client Partner. There are no queries too big or small that Verity cannot deal with and she always responds in a timely manner’.

‘I have dealings with Verity Kirby and Vicky Taylor and I like their calm and measured approach. They are very approachable and deal with their clients and connections in a friendly and professional manner. It is clear from client meetings that they are capable of engaging easily with their clients’.

‘They are very knowledgeable and explain the law and implications clearly, taking onboard the legal knowledge of the individual they’re advising. The advice is given in clear language, and they provide a holistic approach to dealing with cases and options and risks when considering remedies.’

‘The team have continued to provide an outstanding service to the sector, in particular their understanding of some of the key legal and regulatory matters that have been of direct impact on universities over the past year has been enormously helpful, and the advice always delivered in a highly engaging way.’

‘In particular, Smita Jamdar is an absolute superstar! She is a strong, respected and influential voice in the sector, providing interesting and insightful analysis across a wide range of subjects and is very engaged in speaking at events across the sector to share her insights.’

‘Geraldine Swanton is a fountain of knowledge and experience in her field. She is responsive, approachable and pragmatic. She can always be trusted to provide advice that is useful and understandable, especially when supporting non-lawyers.’

‘The education team provide outstanding service and are trusted advisers. In addition to their legal expertise, they have a real-world view and are highly responsive. They understand both the sector and how to work in partnership with the client.’

‘Excellent proactive team who provide regular updates via advice notes and podcasts. Clear and pragmatic advice delivered speedily and with ease of communication.’

‘Geraldine Swanton is swift to respond and understands the sector well, handling tricky questions in a clear and direct way that empowers people to make informed decisions. A very human approach to matters and great empathy makes her stand out.’

‘They not only remain abreast of the regulatory and political landscape, which seems to change on a weekly basis, but they are also prepared to challenge both the regulators and the government on these changes.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau has an extremely strong Islamic finance practice and represents a wide range of Islamic banks and sponsors.’

‘The team is very experienced in dealing with Sharia compliant structures and clients looking to structure their facilities in a manner that is compatible with Sharia law.’

‘The lawyers are very easy to deal with and always go the extra mile. They are also very commercial and driven and focussed on getting the job done.’

‘Mohammed Saqub is a leading figure in the Islamic market sector.’

‘Mohammed Saqub and Afreen Cole are both exceptional lawyers with a solid understanding of Islamic finance principles. Not only are Mohammed and Afreen technically able, but they are also commercially-minded.’ 

‘Jonathan Stork managed to run a very complex piece of litigation – where we were outgunned resource-wise by the other side – efficiently and within budget.’

‘Jonathan Stork possesses a great intellect, and is a problem solver. Excellent at working with counsel. Strategic at all times.’

‘This team had knowledge and experience in the area I needed and knew what to do – they were able to instruct the right counsel for my case.’

‘Steven Skiba is persistent, with great advice, guidance, and expert knowledge. Didn’t take the easy option and fought my corner.’

‘The practice works well in understanding its customer and their business, offering solutions whilst also highlighting any risks and potential challenges. The company is always professional and are a pleasure to deal with.’

‘Tim Speed is a great asset to this practice. He has been professional and is always willing to provide his experience and guidance. Whilst Tim had some previous experience dealing with gas suppliers entering insolvency, he visited our offices to know more about our business to increase his own understanding.’

‘We have worked with Sean Moran and on all occasions he has provided good advice and assisted to obtain results where required.’

‘Friendly and attentive, strong in the energy sector.’

‘Sean Moran and Tim Speed are a great team and always put their clients first.’

‘A very capable and dedicated team. Hard-working and on top of all the latest developments.’

‘Kendal Litherland in particular is a star. A tenacious and determined litigator who opponents underestimate at their peril. Consistently gets the best possible results for clients.’

‘Kendal Litherland: very knowledgeable and responsive with excellent background experience.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau are dynamic and proactive, they respond swiftly to all matters and are quick to deploy the relevant expert from within their business to best suit the instruction.’

‘Amy Cowdell provides an excellent level of service to both clients and all professional contacts associated with the transaction / project. She is always on the front foot and responds swiftly to all matters to move things forward to completion in the most efficient way.’

‘The Agriculture team at Shakespeare Martineau are able to fully support all types of issues affecting a range a stakeholders in the sector. They are able to deliver sound and clear advice in a manner tailored to the Client type; whether that be farmers, landowners, estate owners or tenants’

‘Peter Snodgrass has been proactive in dealing with complex matters, utilising an extensive team of experts to deliver first class advice.’

‘Peter Snodgrass is very sound on agricultural professional inc AHA, FBT and family succession.’

‘Proactive problem solving combined with an efficient no nonsense attitude, my go to people. Clients like them too.’

‘Very helpful and unbelievably approachable. Nothing is too much trouble. Always happy to help and respond in good time.’

‘Ed Wright has become our main contact. He clearly goes out of his way to ensure we get good service.’

‘I have used this firm for over 30 years now, the services I have received have always been excellent.’

‘Mark Thompson not only provides professional services, but takes the time to understand both my commercial requirements, and those of my family.’

‘An outstanding healthcare transactions team. Responsive, reliable and highly experienced.’

‘Great communication. Excellent at keeping me up to date. Professional yet friendly. No jargon and brilliant explaining things in laypersons terms.’

‘Always treated with kindness, empathy and respect.’

‘All the members of the team that I have come across have been helpful and efficient, and have dealt with compassion in difficult circumstances.’

‘Melanie Minter is compassionate, understanding and deals very sensitively with clients. She listens attentively to views and opinions expressed by others and doesn’t impose her own views where these may not coincide with those of the client. She responds to messages and emails promptly. Her background in nursing is a great advantage and she can explain medical terminology when necessary.’

‘A well known south coast clinical negligence practice with a first rate team doing the whole range of serious clinical negligence work.’

‘Melanie Minter: focuses on catastrophic birth injury cases: knowledgeable, experienced, well-organised, and brings her cases to successful conclusions. Nick Garrish: particularly strong on amputation cases and hip dysplasia cases. Builds up a good rapport with clients. Gail Waller: carries out a broad range of clinical negligence work to a high standard. Strong on delayed cancer diagnosis cases.’

‘Gail Waller is a pleasure to work with and extremely skilled in the area of clinical negligence. She knows her cases, and her clients, inside and out.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau take the time and effort to really get to know their clients and organisations. The team are dynamic, professional and understanding. The team seem knowledgeable and are always friendly and efficient’.

‘The individuals I work with are kind, and take a balanced view on the legal approach to take. They are honest if I need to do something differently or they need more information before advising. I am confident in their abilities, no matter what I need support with’.

‘I work closely with Mike Hibbs and have done for many years, he knows me and my organisation well. He understands the internal and external pressures we face, and what we need to consider when dealing with employment legislation matters’.

‘Responsive and extremely pragmatic, they have a good understanding of our organisation and the wider HE sector’.

‘Whole team are great – David Brown especially..’.

‘Client focussed, extremely professional and responsive. The team are excellent practitioners, who have a broad and in depth understanding of the HE sector’.

‘David Browne is superb. He is a highly experienced lawyer with in depth knowledge of employment matters. His understanding and significant experience of dealing with the Higher Education Sector is invaluable to clients’.

‘David Browne is solutions focussed and instils confidence to clients through the pragmatic advice and guidance he gives‘.

‘The team was very welcoming and responsive to our requirements’.

‘Personalised service.’

‘Exceptional knowledge of sector. Supportive and advisory when needs require. Proactive with support.’

‘Naomi Tudor – exceptional knowledge, advice and support.’

‘The team have a diversity of skills and all departments collaborate to bring the correct advice and guidance to the Bank and client that is possible.’

‘I mainly deal with Naomi Tudor and couldn’t recommend her highly enough. A consummate professional, knowledgeable, provides constructive feedback, clear and in a format that is easy to understand.’

‘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.’

‘Michael Young worked extremely hard to come to a positive end to my case. He kept in touch with me on a regular basis to inform me of how we were getting on, what needed to be done, any further information they required from me and what we needed to do in order to further the case to conclusion’. 

‘They are a very strong team across the board’.

‘Michael Young is an excellent and user friendly solicitor with a pragmatic approach’.

‘The team are professional and intelligent. They are able to get to grips with complex matters quickly and draw out the key issues and concerns across multiple sectors’.

‘Michael Young is clear and concise in his instructions. He has a real knack for identifying the key concerns and issues in factually and legally complex scenarios’.

‘Michael is always willing to offer an opinion and give clients relevant and focussed advice which meets with their aims, goals and commercial objectives. He is a genuine pleasure to work with’.

‘Catherine Rustomji is incredibly knowledgeable and well connected in the Charity sector. She gives clear, well thought-out advice that is valued and appreciated’.

‘We are a small charity and were looking to change our articles of association. We were given the name of Catherine Rustomji. The articles produced were properly drafted for our charity’.

‘It is important that you get the sense that any lawyers are working with you, truly understand and engage with the organisation and take a deep interest. This is certainly what you get from the Shakespeare Martineau Charities and not-for-profit practice’.

‘It is always a great pleasure to work with Catherine Rustomji, who is very approachable, knowledgeable and engaging. Her ability to think on her feet and engage with the issue at hand is excellent and a great help in dealing with matters quickly and efficiently. Always a delight to be with’.

‘The team really get to know your business so provide a well-rounded view and advice as to what is important to your business, whilst still leaving total autonomy to us, the client.’

‘The advice and guidance we receive is always robust, yet on a level that appreciates our existing knowledge.’

‘Very efficient team with expertise at all levels and high-quality, interesting work.’

‘Mauro Paiano is an excellent, pragmatic, commercial partner with great sector knowledge.’

‘Our go-to firm in England regarding IP issues and contract law. Equally good as the top firms in the City of London but far more cost-effective.’

‘Nick Briggs is an all-round IP lawyer that always provide sound legal advice. So is Mauro Paiano.’

‘Probably the best regional IP firm in the country. They benefit from their Birmingham location in terms of charging less for top-quality advice.’

‘Nick Briggs is a born litigator. He always wants to win and is prepared to go the extra mile to do so. And to be fair we have a good record together over the last few years.’

‘Kerry Russell produces excellent work and is good with clients.’

‘Expertise in all areas of IP – both hard and soft. Very practical, commercial advice.’

‘Martin Usher is very committed and does a great job for clients.’

‘The team has developed a strong reputation over the years. My experience of the team is mainly at partner level and the expertise, commitment and leadership is a persuasive reason for the firm’s success. There is strength in depth and a genuine commitment to client care which permeates throughout.’

‘Well integrated team.’

‘Kent Pattinson is a highly experienced personal injury lawyer who develops great rapport with clients.’

‘Kent Pattinson is exceptional at getting the best results for his clients. He knows how defendant insurers think and is excellent at negotiating.’

‘The team are well managed. They seem to be very well supported and to enjoy their work.’

‘Martin Usher has significant experience of catastrophic injury work. He is very knowlegeable and calm and collected, even in the most stressful cases.’

‘A small but committed team, recently joined by Martin Usher who is an excellent solicitor.’

‘I have always been impressed by the whole team, the way they approached my case was with a perfect balance of empathy and realism.’

‘I have worked with Jane Charlton for the past 7 years, and I have always found her approach, advice, and ways of working impeccable, but more importantly Jane is empathetic. Jane helps me navigate the legal framework with as much ease as possible.’

‘Jane Charlton is a highly experienced expert who has an excellent ability to get to the nub of the issue and offer a pragmatic solution. She is available and has a very pleasant manner and empathy.’

‘The family department at Shakespeare Martineau provide an exceptional service.’

‘Jane Charlton is endlessly impressive, I have no doubt that clients have the same confidence in Jane and Shakespeare Martineau. She is brilliant with clients, giving them realistic, helpful advice, as well as emotional support when necessary.’

‘Jane Charlton is invested in achieving the best outcome for the client and their family and goes above and beyond to ensure that everything is done to make the process as easy as possible. She is a safe pair of hands.’

‘Excellent client focus and service’.

‘For financial remedies work in the West Country, James Myatt is your man. He is incredibly well known in Bristol and further afield, and one of the most experienced there is.’

‘The team has a wealth of experience in family law. The team has worked together for several years and the structure ensures clients needs are met.’

‘James Myatt is so knowledgeable. His legal knowledge of his field surpasses many. He has an excellent manner with clients. He values his team members which in turn ensures the teams clients get an excellent service.’

‘James Myatt is a significant local practitioner and has a wide and varied practice from his vast local connections. Always responsive and well thought out in his cases.’

‘James communicates extremely well with both clients and lawyers. He gives sensible advice and is reassuring to clients in terms of putting their interests first.’

‘I would recommend Rachel Pritchard at the practice.’

‘James Myatt has considerable experience and is well known in the area.’

‘We have worked with the team in Birmingham for many years, particularly on M&A and divestments. The team is extremely capable, commercially astute and highly agile and responsive. We would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in this area.’

‘Keith Spedding is a top-notch lawyer who never fails to deliver on M&A and related transactions.’

‘Peter Mayhew’s team is hugely responsive and keenly aware of our often firm tax year-end driven deadlines. They really understand how our business works, both at a team and individual level, and tailor their advice and working practices accordingly. You always feel that you are their number one priority, and they work very collaboratively with us.’

‘Peter Mayhew is very responsive, highly engaged and extremely intelligent, especially on EIS and VCT tax issues. He is a walking knowledge bank of both tax matters and our previous deals, often recalling unique details of previous deals from many years ago, which proves invaluable when negotiating deals.’

‘Gweni Rees-Evans is a very strong and efficient lawyer with good deal management and communication skills.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau handles commercial litigation in every sector with the highest professionalism and is always strategic, effective, and efficient.’

‘They have vast experience in a well-resourced and talented department. It is almost unheard of for there to be a substantial commercial dispute in Birmingham without the team acting for someone.’

‘James Woolstenhulme provides extremely savvy and tactically astute leadership, and Ben Humphreys and Alex Ryan are always responsive to clients’ needs.’

‘A tight and cohesive team who have a well-deserved reputation for doing a superb job in a thoroughly decent way. They have a stable and substantial client base who trust them implicitly, and they are fantastic to work with.’

‘Barry Jervis is a superstar partner who has the right blend of pragmatism, bullishness, and decency.’

‘Ben Humphreys has a fine intellect and sharp analysis.’

‘James Woolstenhulme is fearless; he takes a position and isn’t afraid to back it up.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau have a solid presence in the market for defendant personal injury work. They use the resources at their disposal (including intel and surveillance) to secure the best outcomes for their insurers. Their approach is collegiate, and they are pleasant to work with’.

‘Ravinder Johal is an excellent solicitor. He assembles a strong team of experts and counsel and gets the job done. He is particularly good on matters where fraud or exaggeration are suspected’.

‘Brian Jones is a very motivated member of the team who always has an eye on obtaining commercially beneficial resolutions on behalf of his clients. He is a safe pair of hands’.

‘An excellent firm with responsive lawyers who can communicate difficult concepts easily to lay clients. From the very start, Ravinder was proactive, incisive and helpful. His analysis was spot-on’.

‘Brian Jones is very knowledgeable and helpful. He is easy to work with and will always carry out agreed work swiftly and efficiently. He looks at the case economically and works towards driving the cases to settlement’.

‘Brian Jones is professional and always available. Brian is willing to discuss tactics and provide advice to achieve the best outcome’.

‘Ravinder Johal -his technical knowledge is excellent and nothing is too much trouble. He will explain everything in a straightforward manner’.

‘Ravinder Johal always has time to discuss and review claims diligently. This allows us to evaluate the likelihood of success in defending a claim or negotiating the fairest cost effective settlement’.

‘There is a very strong team at Shakespeare Martineau with very broad knowledge across all the areas of contentious trusts and probate‘.

‘Shakespeare Martineau are a strong contentious trust and probate team and have some strength in depth. They have a particular focus in acting for large charities’.

‘Andrew Wilkinson is undoubtedly a leading individual. He is a strong litigator who fiercely pursues his cases on behalf of his clients’.

‘SM’s Contentious Trusts and Probate team has the rare balance of excellent client care together with a thorough knowledge of its practice area. The team is responsive and goes the extra mile in ensuring its clients are fully aware of the risks and benefits through the litigation process’.

‘Alistair Spencer – associate – punches above his weight. His legal analysis is comprehensive as is his attention to detail. He has a charming bedside manner, and recently has taken great care to ensure vulnerable clients are fully informed and their needs are met’.

‘Andrew Wilkinson has a common sense no-nonsense approach. I would also and do often recommend the team to act as independent administrator as again I am confident that my clients will be in safe hands. They are one of the best teams in the business’.

‘One of the best firms in the Midlands in this practice area‘.

‘Aasha Choudhary immediately made me feel supported and reassured. The team at SM work closely together in order to provide consistent advice and support at all times’.

‘They are capable of advising on very complex cases as mine was and continues to be. The collaboration between team members is excellent. Accessibility and contact ability in emergencies and difficult times is very reassuring’.

‘ As soon as I met Aasha I felt safe and reassured. Aside from her obvious professional capabilities I must stress that Aasha has gone above and beyond what is professionally required of her in her support of me’.

‘Aasha Choudhary. In a nutshell she is top drawer – very astute, making the right calls in a highly confrontational and protracted dispute. Throughout, she was empathetic and ‘had my back’ which helped to alleviate much of the stress’.

‘Shakespeare Martineau stands out in the industry for a number of reasons; most notably due to their extensive family law expertise, excellent client service, empathy and transparency.’

‘Aasha Choudhary is the driving force behind the Birmingham team and does not shy away from difficult, complicated or messy cases. She applies a good commercial approach to her cases and is very positive/firm with her advice. Rob Norris has the technical knowledge that is second to none and is a solicitor you would want on your side’.

‘Aasha Choudhary is an excellent partner. She is very hardworking and seeks to ensure that her clients get the very best results. Her attention to detail is second to none. Rob Norris – He has wisdom beyond his years. He is clever and has first class client care skills’.

‘An excellent construction team. Well resourced with knowledgeable people. I would have no hesitation in recommending them to anyone involved in a construction dispute, of any size, not only in the West Midlands but nationally. They are proactive, effective and client focussed.’

‘Ruth Phillips leads an excellent team, ably supported by Adam Watson. We welcome the personable and proactive approach in dealing quickly and efficiently with contract negotiations and document preparation.’

‘The team has a wider view on the construction market than its competitors, in conveying the positions of employers, contractors and sub-contractors in agreeing contract documents.’

‘Adam Watson is an exceptional solicitor dealing with construction disputes. He gets to grips with cases quickly and effectively and will go the extra mile when dealing with matters. He is thorough and understands the key issues that need to be addressed in any construction dispute.’

‘The people at Shakespeare are great to work with, approachable, pragmatic and collaborative in their approach.’

‘We often work with Sonal Panesar who is quick to respond, collaborative in her approach and will always pick up the phone to talk an issue though and work with us to find solutions.’

‘The firm has a first class planning team headed up by the highly experienced Simon Stanion.’

‘Simon Stanion and Josh Morley – Simon is a sector leader with unparalleled experience in the planning sector. Josh Morley is talented and highly effective junior lawyer and a future market leader.’

‘James Fownes is clearly expert in his field.’

‘I have found Shakespeare Martineau to be a reliable firm who provide good advice within the lease advisory and property field. I have collaborated with them on a number of occasions and find the people and the firm to be very professional, well informed and able to provide a balanced view.’

‘The standout people I work with are Martin Edwards, James Fownes and Pia Eames. I find that Shakespeare Martineau are more aware of providing clear advice and accurate risk, enabling me and the client to take an informed decision leading to successful conclusions.’

‘We are pleased with how they react to our queries and their response time, which we find is very important for us to get completions through. If the person dealing with the case is not available then another member of the team will come back to us.’

‘Rachel Gwynne, Emma Smith-Gamble and Stewart Freeman are very approachable and really friendly and will assist with anything we throw at them or pass to another associate who can help.’

‘Viral Dagly has the skills and judgement to take on and successfully run very complex claims.’

‘The clinical negligence team has developed into a major player in this specialist area with offices in Leicester and London. The team is efficiently managed with a focus on quality of service and moreover, all the solicitors are highly specialist and knowledgeable on clinical negligence law issues.’ 

‘Good strength in depth. Very commercial and lots of experience in running complex clinical negligence claims.’

‘Strong team in London. Has many star individuals. Efficient, friendly and effective.’

‘Neil Clayton is a brilliant solicitor. He is determined to get the best result for the client and he is technically very strong.’

‘Very well resourced – a full team of juniors and seniors to service and manage a case at every level – exemplary client care, excellent legal knowledge, extensive experience, friendly, commercial and pragmatic strategic management of the cases always putting the client first.’

‘Neil Clayton is one of my favourite solicitors. Neil is kind, compassionate, immensely experienced and dedicated. He is not afraid of taking on difficult and unusual cases. He quickly wins the trust and confidence of his clients.’

‘The team is responsive, and very professional, they turn around work quickly, and are always on the end of the phone to answer any questions or queries you may have.’

‘Allawee Albaghdadi has excellent customer care skills, is highly knowledgeable and has an amazing supporting team to deal with and field any issues you bring to him.’

‘All the professional team are very competent and handled our matter with upmost professionalism. The advice we got was very clear and they came up with solution for issues which could effectively have been deal breakers.’

‘Very good people skills – looks at the clients needs and ready to invest the required time and effort to get things done.’

‘Good communication between different members of the team with individual specific skills and experience. Provide a joined up, comprehensive service with a single point of contact to make our experience simple and easy to access.’

‘Availability of senior solicitors to provide input and advice throughout the different stages of our transaction, making time to explain intricacies of the legal points to all members of our management team.’

‘Excellent service received from Nic Barker and Raluca Larion, who kept us up to date and on top of what was going on.’

‘Responsive, good value, on point, good advice, practical and collaborative. What’s not to like?’

‘I’ve worked with Paul Hardman on several transactions over the last decade and always found him to be efficient, responsive, knowledgeable, collaborative and pragmatic. No fluff or ego. He concentrates on getting the job done with minimum fuss. My clients have all been happy with his services, and I’ve been happy too. He’s a great commercial lawyer and a safe pair of hands.’

‘Established practice with specialist expertise around care, vulnerability and incorporating relevant other professionals when appropriate.’

‘Trusted and known quality to give good advice and bring in others when needing further expertise, with both internal and external support available.’

‘The combination of a highly professional and highly personal approach by this team is second-to-none. Their knowledge, speed of service, and focus on really understanding the client’s wishes and concerns absolutely sets them apart from other firms I have engaged.’

‘Heledd Wynn is probably the most knowledgeable lawyer for the elderly that I know. Additionally, she is driven by a professional passion for these clients and their families, and strives to ensure very high standards of service from her team.’

‘Deanna Goldsby runs her cases well and has a good nose for a case. Helen Bowns –  is an experienced partner and it shows. She goes above and beyond for her clients (no matter how difficult!). She is great to have in your corner’.

‘Helen Bowns is the stand-out lawyer in the West Midlands for matrimonial finance work. She has years of experience in handling high net worth and complicated cases and excellent judgment’.

‘SM is unique because of the calibre of its staff. They are professional, dedicated, well organised and Helen Bowns has been so supportive during what has been a horrible time in my life’.

‘Helen Bowns and Deanna Goldsby work exceptionally well as a team. They are highly efficient, very competent and knowledgeable and I know when I ask them to do something it will be done’ .

‘The team is an excellent family law team with a wealth of expertise in each area of practice. Deanna Goldsby and Helen Bowns demonstrate a high level of client service and competence. They strive for the best outcomes for their clients.‘

‘Shakespeare Martineau is a first rate firm. The office in Stratford-upon-Avon is modern and well designed. Solicitors and staff are friendly and very competent‘.

‘SHMA is a well balanced, if smaller team, which is well organised and led by Helen Bowns‘.

‘Helen Bowns is measured, is knowledgeable, firm when needed, commercially astute and calm. She is the complete package and thrives on HNW cases. Helen is adept and skilled in negotiating (a dying art in the modern litigious age) and impresses on nuptial agreement negotiations‘.

‘Highly competent team, very commercial and with a personable approach in dealings.’

‘Mark Rondel is a litigator of the highest quality.’

‘Mark Rondel shows excellent judgement, is tenacious without being unnecessarily aggressive, and works hard to deliver the legal product – highly impressive to clients who see how well and efficiently he works.’

‘Each fee earner has diverse skills and strengths, which combine to form a formidable team.’

‘Catherine Hammerson-Jones brings a level of enthusiasm that is seldom seen in litigation, and this is combined with considerable legal skills.’

‘Catherine Hammerson-Jones has a unique background, which makes her ideally suited to certain types of work. In her particular field, Catherine is definitely a go-to solicitor.’

‘As a firm/team they always have time to present complex and technical matters in a way that makes sense.’

‘Great knowledge and ability. Never an issue with resources or timing.’

‘Peter Jones continuously pushed to progress the case and provided updates and “next steps” in a timely manner. I was kept abreast of updates and Peter made sure I understood all of the processes and answered any questions I had without technical jargon’.

‘This is a top drawer personal injury team that has a wide range of experienced partners and extremely intelligent assistant solicitors. It is well-organised and has a wide ranging knowledge of the law and practice in personal injury’.

‘Vicky Blodwell is outstanding. She is thoughtful, compassionate and genuinely cares about the outcomes of everything she sets her mind to’. 

‘Tony Hannington has been providing inspirational leadership from his role as Head of Lime and it is really clear that he values the contribution each of his team gives, from Paralegal to Partner’.

‘The team is close-knit, highly effective and client focussed. Their client care is first-class’.

‘Tony Hannington has a wealth of experience of personal injury litigation. He is a shrewd tactician and an extremely effective negotiator, always seeking to achieve the very best possible outcome for his clients. A skilled communicator, he has the ability to explain complex aspects of litigation to clients in a readily understandable manner’. 

‘Vicky Blodwell also brings vast experience, a sensible approach and first-rate client care and communication skills’.

‘Vicky Blodwell is a very experienced litigator with sound judgement and impressive eye for detail. She works tirelessly for her clients and never gives up’.

‘The firm has a strong expertise in venture capital fund raising and investment gained over many years working for many VC firms.’

‘The firm has detailed knowledge of the fund raising regulatory environment and issues inherent in VC investing.’

‘Shakespeare Martineau has a extremely strong property finance practice and represents a wide range of lenders and sponsors. Not only do they act for conventional lenders, but also Islamic banks, challenger banks, bridging lenders and debt funds. I have always felt as though I am in a safe pair of hands with Shakespeare Martineau.’

‘The people are very easy to deal with and always go the extra mile. They are also very commercial, driven and focussed on getting the job done.’

‘Mohammed Saqub and his team are all exceptional lawyers with a solid understanding of property finance principle. Not only are they all technically able, but they are also commercially-minded.’

‘Great communication. Excellent at keeping me up to date. Professional yet friendly. No jargon and brilliant explaining things in laypersons terms.’

‘Always treated with kindness, empathy and respect.’

‘All the members of the team that I have come across have been helpful and efficient, and have dealt with compassion in difficult circumstances.’

‘Melanie Minter is compassionate, understanding and deals very sensitively with clients. She listens attentively to views and opinions expressed by others and doesn’t impose her own views where these may not coincide with those of the client. She responds to messages and emails promptly. Her background in nursing is a great advantage and she can explain medical terminology when necessary.’

‘A well known south coast clinical negligence practice with a first rate team doing the whole range of serious clinical negligence work.’

‘Melanie Minter: focuses on catastrophic birth injury cases: knowledgeable, experienced, well-organised, and brings her cases to successful conclusions. Nick Garrish: particularly strong on amputation cases and hip dysplasia cases. Builds up a good rapport with clients. Gail Waller: carries out a broad range of clinical negligence work to a high standard. Strong on delayed cancer diagnosis cases.’

‘Gail Waller is a pleasure to work with and extremely skilled in the area of clinical negligence. She knows her cases, and her clients, inside and out.’

‘The team was very welcoming and responsive to our requirements’.