Addleshaw Goddard has ‘excellent depth of knowledge’ across the full spectrum of contentious property matters, from break option disputes and vacant possession strategies to regeneration schemes and lease renewals. ‘Experienced and pragmatic’ national team leader Julie Middlemass
currently advises on tenant insolvencies, while director Elizabeth Cape handles contentious landlord and tenant matters, particularly concerning lease renewals. One client praises director Chris McGrath as ‘commercially focused and always able to provide straightforward and practical advice’. The team counts Aviva Global Investors, Columbia Threadneedle Investments and British Land among its key roster of clients.
Property litigation in Yorkshire And The Humber
Addleshaw Goddard
Practice head(s):
Julie Middlemass
Other key lawyers:
Elizabeth Cape; Chris McGrath
Testimonials
‘AG consistently provides high quality advice and you feel you are in safe hands.’
‘Julie Middlemass is experienced and pragmatic, and provides sensible advice.’
‘There was no question, large or small, that was not answered in a timely and informed manner.’
‘Elizabeth Cape is super knowledgeable and responsive.’
‘Chris McGrath is commercially focused and always able to provide straightforward and practical advice to help us achieve our commercial aims.’
‘The team at Addleshaw Goddard have provided us with timely, practical and commercially focused advice. They have done a fantastic job at understanding our business and partnering with us to achieve positive outcomes across all of the matters they have dealt with.’
‘Julie Middlemass is an excellent problem solver.’
‘Excellent depth of knowledge in the team, especially Elizabeth Cape, who is extremely commercial and super responsive.’
Key clients
abrdn
Asda Stores Limited
Associated British Foods
Aviva Global Investors
British Land plc
Columbia Threadneedle Investors
Federated Hermes
National Grid
Primark Stores
Travelodge Hotels Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Kirklees Council on a vacant possession strategy for the Piazza Centre and Market Hall, Huddersfield to facilitate the planned new ‘Cultural Heart’ in the town centre.
- Advising a variety of clients in connection with various high profile CVAs. These include: New Look, Pizza Express, Pizza Hut, Café Nero, All Saints, Genus, and The Restaurant Group, together with the Virgin Active Restructuring Plan.
- Advising SunriseCo for Fraser Real Estate, London, on the disposal of over 100 properties.
DLA Piper
DLA Piper’s ‘standout’ team has demonstrable experience across the retail, energy and natural resources, financial services, infrastructure and hospitality and leisure sectors. Petra Billing is recognised for her ‘breadth of experience in commercial real estate disputes’, from lease renewals and rent reviews to forfeiture proceedings and contractual disputes relating to land and nuisance issues. Billing jointly leads the practice alongside ‘superb partner’John Kittle, who specialises in commercial landlord and tenant matters, as well as dilapidation claims. Directors Peter Gardner and Rob Shaw handle claims related to rent reviews and the property aspects of infrastructure and telecoms work respectively.
Practice head(s):
Petra Billing; John Kittle
Other key lawyers:
Peter Gardner; Rob Shaw
Testimonials
‘Petra Billing is incredibly bright and an exceptional team leader. She has a breadth of experience in commercial real estate disputes. She is trustworthy, strategic and clear sighted and has excellent judgment.’
‘I have found them to be a marvellous team. They are efficient, organised, commercial and technically able. I would describe them as a really ‘standout’ team.’
‘John Kittle is a a superb partner who leads the team. Technically first-class and commercially first-class, as well as being superb to work with.’
Key clients
Telereal Trillium
J.D. Sports Fashion Plc.
Sytner UK Limited.
British Airways Plc.
Aggregate Industries UK Limited (UK subsidiary of Lafarge Holcim Limited)
HS2 Limited
UPS Limited
Heineken UK Limited
National Highways Limited
Work highlights
- Represented National Highways Limited in court proceedings seeking four interim injunctions against 144 named protestors, initially covering the M25 and surrounding roads, but then extending to cover the entire Strategic Road Network across England.
- Acting for Heineken UK on all litigation issues on a portfolio of approximately 3000 public houses as landlord. This includes a full range of issues from dilapidations and service charge disputes to forfeiture and possession actions and as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, advice on rent concessions and privity of contract issues.
- Successfully obtained orders for High Speed (HS2) Lts to commit a protestor to prison for breach of an anti-trespass injunction, and to extend the time limit of the injunction.
Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP
The experienced team at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP adopts ‘a no-nonsense, commercial approach to property litigation’. Damian Hyndman leads the practice and advises corporate property occupiers, investors and developers on all aspects of contentious commercial property work, with a particular focus on telecommunications-related property disputes. Commended for her ‘great sense of pragmatism and commercial understanding’, Alison Oldfield handles property nuisance work, while Andrew Todd ‘has a wealth of landlord and tenant litigation experience’. Other key members of the team include senior associates Jennifer Leah and Charlotte Miller.
Practice head(s):
Damian Hyndman
Other key lawyers:
Alison Oldfield; Andrew Todd; Jennifer Leah; Charlotte Miller
Testimonials
‘The team has excellent in depth knowledge and experience of real estate litigation and in particular development and commercial landlord and tenant disputes. They adopt a a no-nonsense, commercial approach to property litigation. I recommend them for being solution driven and providing an excellent client-focused service.’
‘Alison Oldfield is an expert in her field. She has great legal knowledge, as you would expect, but has a great sense of pragmatism and commercial understanding which can not be underestimated.’
‘Eversheds offer a service to suit all client needs on complex property related litigation. They have wide-ranging resources to call on when needed but can also offer a personal touch to small disputes when a hands-on approach from a small team is needed.’
‘Andrew Todd offers good, solid advice and has a wealth of landlord and tenant litigation experience.’
‘The expertise of the team, the ability to understand a client’s requirements and act accordingly, commercial understanding, ability to translate complex legal issues into understandable language and actions.’
‘Andrew Todd has assisted us for many years on property disputes, both large and small, resourcing them appropriately to the value of the claim. He brings a commercial acumen to disputes and can cut through to get to the heart of a matter quickly.’
‘Good solid commercial advice and good availability to discuss urgent legal issues as and when appropriate. Straightforward to deal with and clear guidance given. Issues are highlighted and dealt with quickly (getting straight to the key issues at hand).’
‘The team take a very practical approach and are always willing to learn technical aspects in the good cause of reaching successful outcomes. Good communication throughout.’
Key clients
Frasers Group
The Peel Group
Legal & General
WM Morrison Supermarkets Limited
UK Land
Arqiva
McCain Foods GB Limited
Housing Ombudsman
Newell Brands
LNER
Work highlights
Pinsent Masons LLP
Pinsent Masons LLP provides ‘first-class, commercially sensible advice’ on the full range of contentious property matters, from top-tier development disputes to commercial and residential landlord and tenant cases. The team, which is ‘particularly knowledgeable in rights to light disputes’, also counts housing and regeneration projects, and contentious mandates concerning energy, waste and electronic communications issues in its caseload. Practice leader Matthew Baker ‘brings a wealth of property litigation experience to any case he works on’ and is regularly assisted by senior associate Nicola Charlton.
Practice head(s):
Matthew Baker
Other key lawyers:
Nicola Charlton
Testimonials
‘Very well-resourced, large team with in depth knowledge of and experience across a range contentious property matters, including development disputes, as well as commercial and residential landlord and tenant cases. Particularly knowledgeable in rights to light disputes. Matthew Baker is an excellent leader of the team, highly respected, tenacious and strategic.’
‘Matthew Baker is a very experienced partner at Pinsents. He brings a wealth of property litigation experience to any case he works on. He is great to work with.’
‘The team at Pinsent Masons are collaborative and a real pleasure to work with. I always receive clear instructions and support from whoever I am working with in the team. Pinsents act for a wide range of high-profile clients, clearly providing first-class, commercially sensible advice.’
Key clients
United Utilities
Peterson
Coventry City Council
Whitbread
London School of Economics & Political Science
Commercial Estates Group
London & Associated Properties PLC
Marshalls PLC
Work highlights
- Advising United Utilities in long-running litigation concerning its discharges into the Manchester Ship Canal.
Walker Morris LLP
Walker Morris LLP acts as a ‘full-service provider for all property litigation matters, from run-of-the-mill neighbour disputes to large rights of light commercial claims’, and counts national retailers, local authorities, public sector bodies, developers and landlords among its key list of clients. Martin McKeague, whose ‘knowledge of property litigation law and the practical application of it, makes him a forerunner in his field’, jointly leads the practice alongside Karl Anders, who handles residential landlord and tenant matters. Malcolm Simpson acts for developers in disputes relating to option agreements, conditional contracts and planning promotion agreements. Directors David Manda and Lewis Couth are also key members of the team.
Practice head(s):
Martin McKeague; Karl Anders
Other key lawyers:
Malcolm Simpson; David Manda; Lewis Couth
Testimonials
‘The firm offers practical, relevant and sound advice on property litigation, putting the client’s objectives first and foremost.’
‘Martin Mckeague is an excellent asset to Walker Morris. His knowledge of property litigation law and the practical application of it, makes him a forerunner in his field. His ability to put our concerns first before his firm’s fees, makes him a lawyer that we enjoy a close working relationship with.’
‘Full-service provider for all property litigation matters, from run-of-the-mill neighbour disputes to large rights of light commercial claims.’
‘Lewis Couth is exceptional. Very clever and knowledgeable, but also diligent, practical and user-friendly. Martin McKeague and David Manda have excellent client contacts.’
‘Excellent knowledge of relevant law, combined with a full understanding of the underlying commercial realities.’
‘Martin Mckeague and David Manda are approachable, responsive and practical.’
‘The team is large and can handle a variety of work. The firm retains client continuity on parties dealing with the client which maintain standards and means the team place importance on getting to know the client to service to the client’s needs.’
‘Martin McKeague and David Manda are easy to work with and client friendly. They both have the quality and depth of knowledge and will quickly get to the heart of an issue. They both listen and take the time to understand the client’s needs and adopt a commercial and pragmatic approach.’
Key clients
Starbucks
Menzies Distribution Limited
Persimmon
Blackpool FC
Kier plc
Sky
Unite
Homes England
FCC Environment (UK) Limited
The Coal Authority
Work highlights
- Representing Elcombe Limited in respect of a claim against Axa Insurance plc and Locktons (broker) for damages of £1.7m arising out of property damage insurance policy.
- Representing landowners in relation to the modification and discharge of restrictive covenants that prevent development of land.
- Representing a large supermarket in a dispute with the proposed landlord for breach of its obligations under an agreement for lease, where the damages claim is approximately £4m.
CMS
Simone Ketchell leads CMS’ property litigation team in Sheffield and focuses on development disputes and vacant possession strategies; she also has demonstrable experience in litigating conditional break options. The team often collaborates with the firm’s London and Bristol offices in handling a range of contentious property matters. Other key members of the practice include senior associates Edward Gamble, who advises on landlord and tenant matters, and Martin Garner, who handles telecoms issues related to development work. Ketchell solely leads the team following the departure of Stephen Scott in November 2021.
Practice head(s):
Simone Ketchell
Other key lawyers:
Edward Gamble; Martin Garner; Sarah Pope
Key clients
Sainsbury’s Supermarkets Limited/Argos
Aberdeen Standard Investments
Columbia Threadneedle
CBRE Global Investors
New River
SEGRO Group
Intu
BP International
Landsec
BBC Pension Trust
Work highlights
- Advising The Crown Estate on all real estate litigation matters (including development and residential work) across the entire regional portfolio, which includes 13 retail parks, three shopping centres and one leisure destination.
- Advising SEGRO plc, the FTSE 500 Property and Development Investment Company on all real estate litigation aspects concerning the Slough Trading Estate together with various airport estates.
- Advising on real estate disputes concerning the portfolio sale of three retail parks, including dealing with 1954 Act renewals and all relevant disclosures to the purchaser.
Irwin Mitchell
Praised for its ‘first-class technical knowledge’, the national real estate disputes team at Irwin Mitchell counts commercial property investors, developers, retailers, corporate occupiers and Sheffield-based institutions among its key roster of clients. Danny Revitt ‘provides great practical advice’ and is noted for his work advising commercial landlords and tenants on portfolio management matters. Other key members of the team include senior associates Lisa Stratford, who focuses on property disputes funded by legal expenses insurers, and Thomas Freeman, who joined from Knights plc in January 2022.
Practice head(s):
Danny Revitt
Other key lawyers:
Lisa Stratford; Thomas Freeman
Testimonials
‘Thoroughly professional approach with multiple services offering a one stop shop for all legal matters.’
‘Danny Revitt is highly approachable and thoroughly professional. Danny is a credit to the firm that he represents.’
‘The team has a wealth of experience in property litigation.’
‘Danny Revitt provides great practical advice and demonstrates a willingness to move matters along. Good at staying in touch and very accessible.’
‘The property litigation team is responsive, reliable and gives clear commercial advice. We know that we will get good advice reflecting first-class technical knowledge and an understanding of our needs, coupled with a commercial view.’
‘Danny Revitt is technically sound, commercial, responsive and a good understanding of our business.’
‘The level of knowledge is excellent and the team are a pleasure to deal with, which makes a dry subject easier to digest.’
Key clients
Michael Page International Recruitment
Devonshire Green (Commercial Properties) Limited (part of City Estates Group)
Redwood (Light Industrial) Propco SARL (part of Logicor Group)
Keepmoat Homes Limited
Tobermory S.A.R.L/Trilogy Property
Jones Lang LaSalle Limited
Dobbies Garden Centres Limited
Sheffield Hallam University
A&J Mucklow PLC
HBD (Henry Boot Developments)
Persimmon Homes
Artisan Real Estate Investors
River Island Clothing Co Limited
Thorntons Limited
Coal Industry Social Welfare Organisation
Calthorpe Estates Limited
Godwin Developments
Real Estate Investors PLC
Peveril Securities Limited
Suon/Tawnywood
Countrywide Residential Lettings Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for a national retailer in successfully opposing attempt by administrators of another national retailer to assign concession leases in nationwide stores to the buyer of the business, culminating in agreement being reached to terminate all of the leases.
- Acted for a local property investor in obtaining summary judgment for rent arrears against a leisure operator tenant and its three guarantors.
- Assisting a London law firm with a multi-party dispute in relation to its claim for substantial damages for water ingress at their commercial offices and also with defending a claim by their former landlords regarding a break option.
Shoosmiths LLP
Shoosmiths LLP advises on risks associated with developments, such as rights to light and vacant possession issues, as well as acting for corporate occupiers in the retail, hotel and leisure sectors on landlord and tenant matters. Managing property investment portfolios and advising insolvency practitioners on contentious property issues are also key areas of expertise for the practice. Practice leader Richard Symonds advises on matters relating to development constraints, while Matthew Lonergan acts for corporate occupiers across the retail, financial services, leisure and hotel sectors. Principal associate Michael Gaughan is another key member of the team.
Practice head(s):
Richard Symonds; Nick Shepherd
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Lonergan; Michael Gaughan
Testimonials
‘Shoosmiths have the ability to field a multidisciplinary team at short notice to deal with litigation issues. This is invaluable as such issues are inevitably high-value and/or need to be responded to quickly and to strict timescales. We have been impressed at their ability to involve several advisors with their own particular specialisms to ensure all facets of a problem are considered and dealt with.’
‘Michael Gaughan is a fantastic litigator, he is incredibly responsive and utterly strategic and can be relied on to deliver.’
‘They take time to understand our business needs and tailor their advice accordingly.’
‘I have worked closely with Matthew Lonergan and his team on a complex dispute. He and the team have been fantastic, always proactive and quick, pragmatic and solution focused.’
‘Their willingness to understand our needs, particularly in relation to specific project work.’
‘Approachable and knowledgeable. Their advice is pragmatic and solution-focused.’
Key clients
Muse Developments Limited
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council
Asda
Extra MSA
Highwood Developments
Moorfield Group
Brunswick Real Estate/Brunswick Property Partners
Kloeckner Metals/ASD
Currys/Dixons
Empire Property Group
Packaged Living
Sports.Direct.com
Mercedes Benz
Bensons for Beds
Holland & Barrett
Canal & River Trust
Doncaster Borough Council
Euro Garages
Ivesco
The Restaurant Group
Work highlights
- Currys/Dixons – an excellent example of the fact that we as a Leeds-based team have the expertise to be chosen to act for one of the country’s largest and best-known retailers on all aspects of their property portfolio,
- Bellway Homes – an example of the team’s ability to act promptly to address an unexpected issue for a client to achieve a commercial and practical solution within a short timeframe.
Squire Patton Boggs
Squire Patton Boggs’ national property litigation team is led by David Holland, who specialises in compulsory purchase compensation cases, claims under Part 1 of the Land Compensation Act 1973, as well as contentious energy and utilities compensation matters. The practice advises airports on statutory compensation claims and landowners affected by the High Speed 2 rail scheme. Senior associate Bethany Reid is another key contact in the group and has experience in leasehold portfolio management for clients in the retail and leisure sectors.
Practice head(s):
David Holland
Other key lawyers:
Bethany Reid
Testimonials
‘The team at SPB understands the legal issues and how to achieve an outcome which may sometimes be better served without the need for formal litigation, and how looking to resolve the issue by negotiation might be a better answer for all involved.’
‘David Holland is an exceptional lawyer and his willingness, and that of his team, to work with you to achieve our aims is commendable and they are not frightened of telling you how it is and what we need to achieve the best outcome.’
Key clients
Mamas & Papas
Tatton Estate
EDF
Holland & Barrett Limited
Mitchells & Butlers plc
Peel Group
Gate Group plc
Clear Channel
Taylor Wimpey
Ryman Limited
Bizspace Limited
Selfridges
Live Nation
Manchester Airport Group
Birmingham Airport Limited
United Utilities Group plc
Western Power Distribution plc
London Borough of Redbridge
Electricity North West Limited
Northern Powergrid
Reach plc
Cooperative Group
SP Manweb plc
Cancer Research UK
Cummins plc
Signet Group plc
Levantine UK Limited
On Tower UK Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for Levantine (UK) Limited, who were affected by HS2 in a multi-million pound claim for compensation, in relation to the compulsory acquisition of its commercial premises for the purposes of the High Speed Two rail scheme, successfully resolved by way of mediation.
- Acting for Holland & Barrett Limited in a multi-million claim for compensation, resulting from the compulsory purchase of its Birmingham premises.
- Acting for Birmingham Airport Limited in compensation proceedings in the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber), relating to claims for compensation arising for runway extension work sunder Part 1 of the Land Compensation Act 1973.
Bevan Brittan LLP
Noted for its ‘intimate knowledge of the public sector’, Bevan Brittan LLP continues to grow its roster of private sector clients, including Well Pharmacy Group, FRP Advisory Trading and RBH Properties. James Teagle, who heads the practice in Leeds, advises on a range of land and property-related disputes, from tenancy renewals and landlord and tenant conflicts, to forfeiture proceedings and easements. Senior associate Alex Dunne is another key member of the team, who handles dilapidations and lease extension claims.
Practice head(s):
James Teagle
Other key lawyers:
Alex Dunne
Testimonials
‘Bevan Brittan has an extremely well-established and well-regarded property litigation practice, particularly renowned for its public sector client base and intimate knowledge of the public sector (especially the NHS). It therefore has a depth and breadth of expertise, covering all the usual areas of commercial and residential landlord and tenant and real property law, whilst also being able to draw on its in-depth expertise on public sector constitutional and other matters where necessary.’
‘James Teagle has extensive knowledge and on a recent matter, showed excellent negotiation skills in order to get the best possible result for the client.’
‘The team provides positive and prompt advice.’
‘James Teagle is an extremely accomplished property litigator, but also a wonderful human being to work with. He is polite, unfailingly courteous and unflappable even under immense pressure. He is also immensely hard-working.’
‘Good, honest, straightforward and practical advice.’
‘James Teagle is a very effective solicitor.’
Key clients
NHS Property Services
Well Pharmacy
RBH Properties
Hornbeam Park Developments
Direct Collection Bailiffs
Dematic Limited
Grafton (UK) Limited
Places for People
The Classic Prop Hire Limited
West One Loan Limited
Aura Finance Limited
FRP Advisory Trading Limited
Strettons Limited
J. Arkwright & Co.
Work highlights
- Advised a commercial landlord on a £10m+ dilapidations claim.
- Acting for NHSPS on High Court litigation involving the client’s entitlement to charge service charges from its GP tenants to recover the costs of services provided to those tenants by NHSPS.
- Acting for a commercial landlord in relation to rent arrears claim against a national chain of fitness centres.
Blacks Solicitors LLP
Blacks Solicitors LLP’s property litigation offering was bolstered by the arrival of practice leader Luke Maidens from DAC Beachcroft LLP in May 2021. Noted for his expertise in contentious issues relating to telecoms infrastructure, Maidens advises clients across a range of disputes, including landlord and tenant conflicts, vacant possessions matters, lease renewals and dilapidations claims. Aimee Hutchinson is another key contact in the team, who acts for clients in the holiday and home parks sector.
Practice head(s):
Luke Maidens
Other key lawyers:
Aimee Hutchinson; Chloe Grainger
Testimonials
‘I find the team exceptionally personable and pleasant to work with. I am also impressed by their attention to detail and their ability to read and organise a large amount of material in document-heavy cases, in an efficient and effective manner.’
‘Luke Maidens is a well-qualified telecoms solicitor. His experience allows him to tap into the mindset of the tenant to allow him to best represent the landlord. Luke connects on a personal level with his clients, enabling him to gain their trust and protect their interests. Luke is always available to discuss legal matters, providing us with excellent advice.’
‘Collaborative nature enabling concise, transparent and pragmatic advice to be given to clients.’
‘Luke Maidens is very hands on and meticulous in his detailing, which provides the confidence that any resulting agreement is the best possible outcome in any given circumstance.’
‘Aimee Hutchinson has a calm and engaging self-assurance, befitting her role as partner, whilst also being extremely personable, no doubt with excellent client management skills. She can be robust and assertive where necessary, but is also realistic in her approach and does not lose sight of the wood for the trees. Chloe Grainger is an excellent associate for many of the same reasons. She works very well with Aimee, is extremely well-organised, but also very articulate and a very good technical lawyer.’
‘Personable, reliable and trustworthy, which gives me confidence to recommend their services to my own clients.’
‘Luke Maidens is an experienced litigator, who has been at the forefront of innovative property litigation.’
‘The team, led by Luke Maidens, is extremely approachable and respond quickly to any query. They always appear able to make the time for you.’
Key clients
Astella Holdings Limited
West One Loan Limited
The Wyedean Weaving Company Limited
Upwood Holiday Park
White Park Homes
Ashdown Park Homes
Barnsley Premier Leisure Limited
Ehrle (Holdings) Limited
Harrogate Spring Water Limited
Shuttleworth (UK) Limited
Stockport District Borough Council
Stonebridge Homes Limited
St Pauls Street Investments
The Technology Forge Limited
Westchurch Homes Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for the landlord of Danes Court Limited in respect of court proceedings issued by Cornerstone Telecommunications infrastructure Limited against our client in the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) to facilitate rights of access and survey under the Electronic Communications Code.
- Acting for Leeds University Union in relation to the management of its property portfolio.
- Advising a residential mobile home park owner and advising in relation to several aspects of the Mobile Homes Act 2013 and applications lodged by the residents of the mobile park home.
Gordons LLP
Gordons LLP has ‘great knowledge of the retail property industry’, counting Wren Kitchens Limited, Iceland Foods Limited and Card Factory among its key roster of clients. ‘Formidable litigator’ Richard Cressall leads the practice, which includes senior associate Sarah Coates-Madden, who has experience in residential possessions claims and assists clients in boundary disputes. Associate Tanzeela Hussain is another key member of the team, who handles landlord and tenant matters.
Practice head(s):
Richard Cressall
Other key lawyers:
Sarah Coates-Madden; Tanzeela Hussain
Testimonials
‘There are no apparent weaknesses. The team has strength in depth and all members of the team provide a professional and consistently high level of service.’
‘Richard Cressall is a fantastic property lawyer. Don’t let his mild manner fool you. He is commercially astute and a formidable litigator.’
‘Quite simply they are a cut above. Their attention to detail and thoroughness is second to none, all headed by a fantastic team of partners. I have worked with Gordons as both a client and customer for many years now, and the team they have in place is simply fantastic.’
‘Richard Cressall deserves a special mention. He consistently provides a high-level service and is our go-to litigator.’
‘They have great knowledge of the retail property industry and a real handle on the needs of developer clients.’
‘I think the one thing that stands out for me is their thoroughness in what they do and honesty in the approach. They are all always on hand, no matter what time or day it is. Richard and his team are very professional and friendly, easy to approach and very open. There is no delay in their work, it is actioned immediately.’
‘I would specifically like to give a special mention to Richard Cressall. No matter what I need, even if its not his department, he always points me in the right direction and the matter is dealt with efficiency. I can honestly say they are a fantastic group of people, professionals and individuals.’
Key clients
Wren Kitchens Ltd
Iceland Foods Ltd
Heron Foods Ltd
Card Factory PLC
Yorkshire Building Society (YBS Group)
Saint-Gobain/Jewson
Moorgarth Group
Stroud Regeneration Ltd
Safestyle UK Plc
Hermes Parcelnet Ltd
Work highlights
- Advising Partner Construction Limited in a claim, currently quantified at £3m, against Severn Trent Water for negligent acts and omissions which are obstructing the construction of a housing construction project in Nuneaton.
- Advised Stroud Regeneration Limited on an urgent opposed lease renewal worth upwards of £10m and involving an application to expedite proceedings, for the creation of a new combined NHS facility in Stroud.
- Advised and assisted Original Factory Shop Limited in seeing through and managing its CVA from when this was approved in 2018 to the end date in July 2021.
Gosschalks
Noted for its expertise in the licensed-leisure sector, Gosschalks acts for leading pub companies, such as Stonegate Pub Company Limited and Wellington Pub Company, as well as bookmakers and dining franchises. Matthew Fletcher leads the team alongside Victoria Quinn, who advises high-street retailers, landlords and tenants in the licensed-leisure sector, and investor landlords and developers. Julia Williams handles forfeitures, injunctions and opposed renewals, while Rachel Garton has experience in leasehold disputes.
Practice head(s):
Matthew Fletcher; Victoria Quinn
Other key lawyers:
Julia Williams; Rachel Garton; Andrew Johnson
Testimonials
‘The Gosschalks property litigation team have completed a significant project for us dealing with multiple properties. Matthew Fletcher and Andrew Johnson were the project leads and were both excellent. The level of direct involvement and ownership shown by both partners was excellent – and a refreshing change when compared to other firms.’
Key clients
Stonegate Pub Company Limited
William Hill Organization Ltd
Wellington Pub Company Plc
Wilko Limited
Age UK
Moto Hospitality Ltd
Elizabeth Holdings Plc
KCOM Group Plc
C Spencer Limited
Allenby Commercial
Work highlights
- Defending Wilko Limited in injunction proceedings relating to disrepair of property.
- Advised Ei Group on potential forfeiture of client’s 66-year Head Lease by the Head Landlord. Property Sub-let for 10 years.
- Advised KCOM Group Plc in wayleave rollout programme to 420 properties across the city.
Hagen Wolf
Property litigation boutique Hagen Wolf ‘offers an exceptional service’ and brings a ‘fresh and dynamic energy to all contentious matters’, when acting for its client roster of major transport operators, landed estates, property investors and landlords. Founding partner and practice leader Matt Pugh, who is praised as ‘an expert in his field’, covers all aspects of commercial, residential and agricultural property disputes. The team’s offering was bolstered by the arrival of Richard Robinson, who joined in April 2022 from Knights plc.
Practice head(s):
Matt Pugh
Other key lawyers:
Richard Robinson; Philip Copley
Testimonials
‘Hagen Wolf, led by Matt Pugh, is a small specialist team, which punches well above its weight with an excellent reputation and an impressive list of prestigious clients.’
‘Matt Pugh is always an impressive performer. Tenacious but personable, good with the detailed law and with commercial practicalities.’
‘The feedback from our clients in respect of the work carried out by Hagen Wolf has always been extremely positive. Our clients find them easy to deal with and very knowledgeable.’
‘The firm’s founding partner, Matt Pugh, is a pleasure to deal with, alongside Phil Copley, an associate.’
‘Hagen Wolf are a cut above most law firms. They are super responsive, always proactive and they bring a fresh and dynamic energy to all contentious matters I instruct them on.’
‘Matt Pugh is a stellar lawyer and he brings an incredible commerciality to legal problems. He cuts to the chase, never labours litigious points and overall, he brings a clarity to the client’s legal problem.’
‘The team at Hagen Wolf offers an exceptional service. By truly understanding their clients and the concerns they may have, Hagen Wolf is very effective at presenting their advice in an accessible form for their particular clients. Their advice is clear and concise, with quick turnaround times. They get straight to the legal issues at hand, yet provide practical advice to the point in question.’
‘I have worked closely on a number of occasions with Matt Pugh and Phil Copley. Matt is an expert in his field, being technically strong. Offering pragmatic advice for the client in a form best suited to them, based on a detailed analysis of the legal position. Phil is readily available and has a good attention to detail, getting to the heart of the issue in question.’
Key clients
West Midland Trains
Northern Trains
LNER
Severfield Plc
Stagecoach Plc
Vue Cinemas
ScS Furniture
The Bierkeller
ALS Global
LS Estates
Work highlights
- Acted for Stagecoach Plc in recovering possession of an industrial site being occupied by a large traveller encampment.
- Acted on behalf of an entrepreneur/investor negotiating a resolution to a dispute worth over £2m, regarding the sale proceeds of part of a former wildlife park being developed into a solar farm and seeking an Order for Sale of the rest of the site for housing development.
- Advised the management company of an apartment block in central Leeds on a £900k claim against a developer for cladding remediation and fire safety works.
Schofield Sweeney
Schofield Sweeney’s property litigation team benefits from the expertise and leadership of Richard Jobes, who covers a range of contentious matters, including landlord and tenant conflicts, break options, dilapidations claims, forfeiture, rights of way, recovery of rent arrears and lease interpretation. Jobes also has demonstrable experience in agricultural tenancies, business rates and planning-related disputes. The practice counts investors, landlords, retailers and owner-managed businesses among its key list of clients.
Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
James Staton
Testimonials
‘I am always confident that Richard Jobes delivers clear and concise advice and gets directly to the nub of the question raised by the client. He is very straightforward and excellent to work with.’
Key clients
Games Workshop Limited
Robert and Pauline Lock
Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP
Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP’s property litigation team ‘provides clear and practical advice’ to its roster of clients, which includes housing associations, local authorities, property developers and investors, landed estates and retailers. Senior counsel and national team leader Jen Smurthwaite splits her time between the firm’s Leeds and Newcastle offices, and advises on contentious matters pertaining to rent reviews, lease renewals, restrictive covenants and easements. ‘Extremely astute’ Fiona Graham and managing associate Paul Joyce are key members of the team.
Practice head(s):
Jen Smurthwaite
Other key lawyers:
Fiona Graham; Paul Joyce
Testimonials
‘WBD is a fantastic firm with many talented lawyers, great strength in depth, and a lethal combination of technical expertise and tactical ability.’
‘Fiona Graham is an absolute pleasure to work with. Extremely astute, great legal knowledge and exceptional client skills.’
‘The litigation team at Womble Bond Dickinson provides clear and practical advice.’
‘Paul Joyce is probably the most approachable litigation partner I have come across. He clearly explains the options available and always provides a professional recommendation on the best course of action.’
‘They understand our business and needs very clearly and are almost an extension of our own in-house team.’
‘Paul Joyce is very easy to work with, provides solid advice, and is pragmatic and unflappable.’
Key clients
Airwave Solutions Limited
Bernicia Group
Akelius
Standard Life Trustee Company Ltd
Karbon Homes
Places for People Homes Limited
Work highlights
- Acting as a sole UK legal services provider to Airwave Solutions Limited’s real estate team, which provides the emergency services communications network across the country.
- Advising Standard Life Trustee Company Ltd in a range of property disputes across its SIPP (Self Invested Personal Pension plan) portfolio.
- Acting for Bernicia Group on tenancy management issues, including claims to possession, injunctions to tackle anti-social behaviour, committals for breach and defending housing disrepair claims.
Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP
Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP acts for national port and dock operators, such as Associated British Ports, and counts issues relating to forfeiture of leases, restrictive covenants and rights of way in its caseload. The team is jointly led by Nick Dean, ‘who looks at cases from every angle to achieve the best result for his clients’, and Stephen Kell, who ‘leaves no stone unturned’ when acting for owners of investment properties and business tenants.
Practice head(s):
Nick Dean; Stephen Kell
Testimonials
‘A very strong commercial team, with local roots and nationwide clients.’
‘Stephen Kell is tenacious and leaves no stone unturned.’
‘They have a great location for high quality commercial property litigation. As a team, they are well respected, and consequently attract valuable commercial clients.’
‘Nick Dean is extremely responsive in these matters which arise from time to time.’
‘Stephen Kell is a first-rate lawyer and litigator, who always goes the extra mile for his clients.’
‘A strong and very commercially aware team.’
‘Nick Dean is a very thorough litigator, who looks at cases from every angle to achieve the best result for his clients.’
Key clients
Associated British Ports
Wykeland Group Limited/Bridgeland Developments Limited/Watergate Developments Limited
Kexgill Group
Askham Bryan College
Integra Buildings Limited
Coopland & Son (Scarborough) Limited
The Sheffield Investment Company Limited
Woodthorpe Hall Garden Centres Limited
Gleeson Regeneration Limited
Bretby (GP) LLP/Centurion Asset Management Limited
Work highlights
Clarion
Landlord and tenant matters remain a key area of focus for the property litigation team at Clarion, in addition to dilapidation claims, mortgage arrears and repossession proceedings. Practice leader Sophie Morley advises on issues relating to easements and restrictive covenants, as well as overage agreements and option disputes. ‘Standout associate’ Natalie Brierley is another key member of the team.
Practice head(s):
Sophie Morley
Other key lawyers:
Natalie Brierley; Phillip Feather
Testimonials
‘Natalie Brierley is efficient and always deals with my instructions promptly. She is focused on resolving the dispute.’
‘The team at Clarion are very responsive in every way. There is clear focus on delivering for the client in a timely and agreed manner. The quality and clarity of the advice is crystal clear and any written material is well structured and free from error.’
‘Sophie Morley is top quality.’
‘We have found dealing with the property litigation team at Clarion extremely beneficial. Their knowledge is second to none and we often pick their brains with difficult cases before making the decision on whether to progress down the legal route. Phillip Feather is our main point of contact and is always available to discuss matters.’
‘Natalie Brierley is a standout associate. Nothing is too much trouble for her. She exudes confidence and professionalism. Her communication is at all times delivered in a timely manner and with total clarity.’
Key clients
Asics
Warburtons Limited
Tile Giant Limited
The City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council
Avant Homes Limited
Done Brothers Limited (Betfred)
Harron Homes Limited
Eddisons Commercial Limited
TFG Capital Limited
Kodak Limited
Work highlights
LCF Law
Noted for its expertise in urgent possession claims in the High Court and County Court, LCF Law also handles forfeiture and breach of leasehold, and freehold covenant matters. Practice leader Ragan Montgomery focuses on the property elements of contentious trust and probate disputes, while Tom Edwards ‘has the knack of simplifying complex problems and managing them clearly and efficiently.’
Practice head(s):
Ragan Montgomery
Other key lawyers:
Tom Edwards
Testimonials
‘The property litigation team at LCF is hugely experienced and highly successful, very committed to their clients and extremely knowledgeable.’
‘Tom Edwards is an outstanding lawyer, very hardworking and tactically astute.’
‘Excellent knowledge and approach to difficult and complex matters.’
‘Ragan Montgomery is a safe pair of hands and is able to approach complex matters at ease but with a professional manner, whilst displaying the confidence to deal with a matter.’
‘My main contact is with Tom Edwards. A hugely knowledgeable property litigator who would be my ‘go-to’ contact if I had a property dispute. He has the knack of simplifying complex problems and managing them clearly and efficiently, always with a considered plan in mind.’
‘The team are focused on working with you as a client to get matters completed. They are very knowledgeable and work with you to get the best outcome.’
Key clients
Salvation Army Trustee Company
Work highlights
McCormicks
McCormicks advises its roster of clients, including private investors, developers, landed estates and charities, on landlord and tenant work, dilapidation claims, boundary disputes and possession matters. Philip Edmondson leads the team, which includes experienced commercial litigator Peter McCormick and Heather Roberts. Key clients include The Premier League, Leeds United FC and GMI Holdings Limited.
Practice head(s):
Philip Edmondson
Other key lawyers:
Peter McCormick; Heather Roberts
Key clients
The Premier League
John Strutt Conservation Foundation
Executors of John Herbert Strutt Deceased
Leeds United FC
John Strutt Centre for Parrot Conservation
John Strutt Memorial Foundation
GMI Holdings PLC
Liam Botham
Alison Johnson
Work highlights
- Represented the Premier League in proceedings threatened by its former landlord pursuant to an Authorised Guarantee Agreement.
- Acting for a client in relation to the management of the Derbyshire Estate, involving managing tenants, advising on forfeiture and distraint, interference with right of way and adverse possession claims.
- Advising Leeds United FC on an ongoing basis on all aspects of its properties.
Raworths
Raworths acts for high-net-worth residential property owners, institutional landlords, commercial landlords and tenants, landed estates and agribusinesses on contentious matters relating to right of way, vacant possession and breaches of restrictive covenant. Practice leader Matthew Hill is praised for ‘covering every angle of a case and thinking of solutions and arguments which others might miss’.
Practice head(s):
Matthew Hill
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Mortimer
Testimonials
‘Matthew Hill loves a fight and is brilliant at going on the offensive, but also very realistic with clients about their prospects of success, although he is especially adept at covering every angle of a case and thinking of solutions and arguments which others might miss. A technically excellent and commercially astute lawyer of considerable experience.’
‘An excellent firm, very friendly, helpful and responsive to clients, and very well organised.’
‘Matthew Hill is extremely personable and approachable. Matthew has a really good team around him and they seem very focused on delivering great results for litigation clients.’
‘In depth knowledge of the subject matter, as well as local knowledge.’
‘Jonathan Mortimer is an extremely experienced solicitor, who is a very safe pair of hands for any case. Jonathan knows how to extract the commercial and legal bones of the most complex cases.’
‘Matthew Hill is a superb dispute resolution practitioner. He is quick at grasping the legal complexity of a dispute and is good at discussing strategy with counsel as the case progresses. He is amicable and easy to work with.’
Key clients
Celli Group (UK) Limited
The Trustees of the Patrizia Hanover Property Unit Trust
Dishang Cherry Limited/Dishang Imports Limited/Dishang Exports Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Trustees of the Patrizia Hanover Property Unit Trust on contentious and non-contentious lease renewal proceedings.
- Acting for private owners of a residential real estate in successfully obtaining the release of an onerous covenant at the Upper Tribunal under Section 84 of the Law of Property Act 1925.
- Acting for H. & F.N. Smith (Ellis Laithe) Limited in a claim against City of Wakefield Metropolitan Council, in respect of a dispute concerning a right of way over a railway bridge.
Rollits LLP
Rollits LLP handles a range of disputes concerning rights of way, dilapidations and contested lease renewals, as well as trespassing, restrictive covenants and forfeiture and repossession issues. The team is led by Chris Drinkall, whose caseload includes commercial and residential landlord and tenant disputes. Commercial litigator Ralph Gilbert is another key contact in the group.
Practice head(s):
Chris Drinkall
Other key lawyers:
Ralph Gilbert
Key clients
Hull City Tigers Limited
Abel & Cole
Coopland & Son (Scarborough) Limited
Superstadium Management Company
J R Rix & Sons
Aberdeen Enterprise Finance
University of Hull
Hull Churches Housing Association
Pickering & Ferens Homes
Ideal Standard
Work highlights
Wake Smith Solicitors Limited
The property litigation team at ‘well-established and reliable regional firm’ Wake Smith Solicitors Limited counts landlord and tenant conflicts, rights of way, easements and possession right issues in its caseload. Practice leader and experienced litigator Elizabeth Shaw currently focuses on dilapidations liabilities, as well as advising tenants on the termination of leases when breaks arise.
Practice head(s):
Elizabeth Shaw
Testimonials
‘The team are knowledgeable and approachable.’
‘Elizabeth Shaw is incredibly client friendly and gives commercially and legally sound advice.’
‘Wake Smith are a well-established and reliable regional firm offering advice in many different areas. I find them especially helpful in dispute resolution matters.’
‘Highly respected Sheffield firm, with great experience in litigation.’
‘In my experience the property litigation department of Wake Smith functions in an efficient manner internally, with all team members working in unison and harmony. They clearly are passionate about their work and operate well in high pressure, time sensitive processes. For me, their professionalism and composure stands out and I highly recommend their services.’
‘Wake Smith stands above the crowd. They are a professional strong, capable team from reception staff to directors. Parking is paid for within their own car park.’
Key clients
Salis Properties Limited
Salvation Army Trading Company Limited
Arthrex Limited
Encil Limited
GI Group Recruitment Limited
Shrewsbury Hospital Estates
London & Associated Properties Limited
Turner Investments Limited
Askern UK Limited
Steps Rehabilitation Limited
Westfield Health Contributory Scheme
Ponsford Investments Limited
Work highlights
Weightmans
Weightmans’ property litigation team acts for clients across the hotels, licensed and leisure industries, including Punch Pubs & Co, Fuller Smith & Turner and Camerons Brewery, among others. Also recognised for its expertise in the education and social housing sectors, the practice is led by Ben Mackenzie, who counts dilapidations disputes, forfeiture proceedings and possession claims in his caseload.
Practice head(s):
Ben Mackenzie
Testimonials
‘Ben Mackenzie and his team are very knowledgeable on dealing with pub matters, both within general litigation and the “pub code”. They work as a team with the client at the very start, right up to disposal. Commercial reality is always a component to the advice given. Highly successful in assisting landlords in effective management of their estates.’
‘Ben Mackenzie is hands on and always makes himself available.’
‘In-depth experience in pub-co property work.’
‘Ben Mackenzie is a long-established expert in his field. He is great to work with and is always happy to think about things from a new angle and listen to the views of others.’
‘They are extremely responsive and genuinely appear to have resource dedicated to my team. Always available and apply themselves at an appropriate level. Commercially very aware, with a deep knowledge of the industry and my business’ place in it.’
‘Ben Mackenzie is very impressive, he understands my requirements and tailors his advice accordingly. He spends an appropriate amount of time and resource on individual matters and provides useful insight and understanding from a fresh perspective.’
‘The Weightmans property litigation have constantly proved themselves to be extremely important advisers to our business. Providing excellent practical advice, dealing with cases in timely manner and fully understanding of our business. In particular they realise our time pressures and provide support in a way that meets our needs. Great support delivered from all their team.’
‘Ben Mackenzie delivers excellent advice, his depth of knowledge is impressive in our specialist field and he gives our business great confidence.’
Key clients
Camerons Brewery Limited
Punch Pubs & Co
Greene King
Admiral Taverns
Leeds City Council
Clarion
AS Watson Group
Strada
Fullers, Smith &Turner PLC
AND Group Limited