Firms To Watch: Property litigation

Laura Salvati joined from Schofield Sweeney in November 2020 to grow Tyr’s property litigation practice and its client base, which includes household names such as The Trafford Centre.

Property litigation in Yorkshire And The Humber

Addleshaw Goddard

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.

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 partnerJohn 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 litigatorRichard 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):

    Richard Jobes

    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 astuteFiona 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 associateNatalie 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

              Work highlights