Mr Richard Sutton > Foot Anstey > Exeter, England > Lawyer Profile

Developers, financial service providers and energy and infrastructure companies make up some of Foot Anstey‘s core client base. Regarded as ‘knowledgeable, commercial and practical’, the firm handles mandates ranging from portfolio management to Shariah-compatible property transactions. Richard Sutton, who chairs the practice from the firm’s Exeter office, is well versed in property development matters. The Bristol-based Zahir Nayani is recommended for his expertise in Islamic finance. Philip Parrott, who joined the practice in July 2022, is a key contact for portfolio clients from the retail and energy sectors. Other names to note include Kate Dawe, whose commercial property expertise extends to leasing management.

Well regarded by clients, the ‘very knowledgeable’ team at Foot Anstey acts for clients across the developer, retailer, financial services, and energy sectors. The team is led by the Exeter-based Richard Sutton, a specialist in development work. Imam Qazi is noted for his Islamic finance acumen, while Kutahya Cherry – who was promoted to partner in January 2023 – maintains a renewable energy sector-focused practice. Other key figures include Mark Li, a transport and energy property specialist, whose recent engagements include cross-border acquisitions and portfolio management matters. Stuart Cleak left the practice in July 2022 to pursue freelance opportunities. All named lawyers are based in Bristol unless stated otherwise.

Exeter-based Richard Sutton heads up the Foot Anstey commercial property group, which shows considerable strength in the residential development, property finance, and commercial landlord spaces. In Southampton, Tim Wheen is the key senior contact, specialising in site acquisitions and the negotiation of planning agreements. Carol Phillips advises clients from the retail and leisure sectors, while legal director James Barnett leads on asset management work and assists large property companies. Nicola Sutton focuses on landlord and tenant matters, and Katie Taylor concentrates on handling disposals for institutional landlords.