Bevan Brittan LLP > Bristol, England > Firm Profile
Bevan Brittan LLP Offices

KINGS ORCHARD
1 QUEEN STREET
BRISTOL
BS2 0HQ
England
Bevan Brittan LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Employment > Employment: Bristol Tier 1
The employment practice at Bevan Brittan LLP is highly regarded for its experience in public employment law, in particular regarding local governments. It also has a significant focus on work for healthcare providers, providing governance and strategic advice on behalf of NHS trusts, as well as housing organisations. Its private experience is also notable, operating across a number of different sectors. Notable lawyers include Sarah Lamont, who works primarily with local governments and housing associations, and the experienced Julian Hoskins, who works with a range of healthcare and private sector employers. Health and social care specialist Jodie Sinclair leads the practice.
Practice head(s):
Jodie Sinclair
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The whole employment and pensions team at Bevan Brittan is extremely well managed and always works exceptionally smoothly and efficiently together. The team is a complete delight to work with and is unfailingly courteous, helpful, efficient and hard-working as well as always displaying really good judgment.’
‘I have worked with Sarah Lamont very closely for a number of years and have done so in the context of very protracted and demanding litigation. Sarah is highly intelligent and legally extremely astute, is very, very conscientious and hard working, always reveals really sound judgment and is utterly committed to serving the interests of her clients.’
‘Super diligent, committed and flexible. Easy to work with.’
‘The employment team at Bevan Brittan truly listen. They take the time to understand a challenge from all angles and provide commercial, sensible solutions. So often lawyers claim they can speak the language of their clients, rarely is this true. Bevan Brittan’s employment team are easy to use, speak in plan English and are able to communicate well at all levels.’
Key clients
Local Government Association
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
National Savings and Investments
Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust
Royal London Borough Greenwich
Lampton 360 Ltd
London Borough of Barnet
Yeovil NHS Foundation Trust
Oxfordshire County Council
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
London Borough Southwark
North Somerset Council
Bath & North East Somerset Council
Buckinghamshire Council
Nottinghamshire County Council
Work highlights
- Advised a number of NHS hospitals on covid issues, including staffing arrangements for Nightingale hospitals, redeployment of staff to the front line and vaccination conflicts.
- Advised 52 fire and rescue authorities in England and Wales, defending multijurisdictional pension discrimination claims brought by over 5,000 fire-fighters.
- Advising a company in the waste sector on an investigation into allegations of race discrimination against a board member due to social media comments.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence; defendant
Clients single out Bevan Brittan LLP's use of technology, following the development of its Early Notification Scheme, which in the clinical negligence context 'facilitates new ways of dealing with potential claims based on poor outcomes to drive down costs and provide fair results for both patients and clinicians'. Dual-qualified solicitor and barrister Joanna Lloyd leads the defendant-focused clinical negligence team, which is on the NHS Resolution panel, where lawyers advise on indemnity schemes for hospital trusts. The group also represents a number of medical malpractice insurers and independent healthcare providers, with particular expertise in cases involving cosmetic and aesthetic malpractice, and complex neurological, orthopaedic and ophthalmic claims. Simon Lindsay is a specialist in mental health law and healthcare associated with infection. Senior associate Ceri Catton is developing a strength in defending group litigation. Paul Taverner heads the personal injury team, as well as the firm's broader insurance group, specialising in defending high-value head and spinal injury cases. Associate Adrian Neale is recommended for industrial disease claims, while fellow associate Claire Jones is an expert in coverage disputes for insurers, as well as assisting major clients with claims handling and defending complex and high-value personal injury claims.
Practice head(s):
Joanna Lloyd; Paul Taverner
Other key lawyers:
Adrian Neale; Claire Jones; Simon Lindsay; Ceri Catton; Alison Garrett
Testimonials
‘A great combination of the professional and personable. Pragmatic and reasonable.‘
‘Right at the top of the tree when it comes to defending the NHS in clinical negligence claims. They have introduced innovative paperless technology and the Collaborate platform is one of the best, if not the best, I have used. They have also facilitated new ways of dealing with potential claims based on poor outcomes to drive down costs and provide fair results for both patients and clinicians (the Early Notification Scheme). They are always on the lookout for new ideas and provide a first-class service.‘
‘Jo Lloyd brings huge experience of clinical negligence work at the coal face, both as a barrister and as a solicitor advocate. She has an instinctive grasp of the subtleties of trial tactics and negotiations, which she deploys to good effect.‘
‘The strengths and key capabilities revolve around the quality of the lawyers within the team. Support via the technology of the Collaborate system is highly efficient. Additionally, the team leaders understand the needs of the client, deploying real insight and direction in focusing the legal work towards identifying and achieving the optimal outcome.’
‘The team we utilise within Bevan Brittan have a very clear understanding of our business requirements for RTA defendant litigation work. Their knowledge of the relevant legal environment means that they are well placed to provide the solutions that we require when defending and resolving cases.‘
‘Paul Taverner has an excellent knowledge of our business requirements. He also has an extensive knowledge of the work where he is instructed and provides a personal and detailed service for our complex and catastrophic injury claims.’
‘The insurance team are close knit, highly skilled and competent, and committed to their insurer clients in a way that commands admiration, as well as being very approachable. They are a delight to work with, show superb attention to detail and are all exceptionally good lawyers. They are a small team but punch well above their weight. Paul Taverner is as good as any national partner in any firm, and stands head and shoulders above all other partners in this sector in the South West. A fantastic catastrophic injury lawyer.’
‘Paul Taverner is exceptional. The finest partner in Bristol. He is ably supported by proteges Claire Jones and Adrian Neale, who are cut from the same cloth. Claire is driven, sensible, commercially minded and a force to be reckoned with. Adrian has a keen eye for detail, a strong work ethic and excellent technical knowledge.’
Key clients
Covea Insurance
Allianz Global Corporate and Specialty
Nottinghamshire County Council
CNA Europe
Nottingham City Council
Allied World Assurance
Neon
Newham Learning Partnership
Renaissance Re
Basingstoke and Dean Borough Council
ISG
NHS Resolution
Somerset Foundation NHS Trust
Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
Royal United Hospitals Bath
States of Jersey
Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
University Hospitals Birmingham
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
Public sector > Health Tier 1
Bevan Brittan LLP is highly regarded for 'always thinking creatively and outside of the normal legal box to find solutions'. The team is instructed by a high number of NHS providers and CCGs as well as by independent health and social care organisations. Its work includes advising on 'HIP' schemes, commissioning, PFIs and regulatory matters, among others. Practice head Sharon Renouf and Rosemary Jago are specialists in procurements for NHS clients. David Owens has know-how in governance and powers matters. Vincent Buscemi is noted for having 'a natural aptitude for considering and applying both technical legislative detail and commercial considerations'. Associate Anna Davies is well versed in mental health commissioning.
Practice head(s):
Sharon Renouf
Other key lawyers:
David Owens; Rosemary Jago; Vincent Buscemi; Anna Davies; Charlotte Scourfield
Testimonials
‘The team has an unrivaled depth of knowledge on healthcare. Without exception, the team provides high quality outputs ensuring client satisfaction. We have developed a robust partnership approach with Bevan Brittan, with clients viewing us as a highly effective single team. I am consistently impressed with the high levels of flexibility, with the team rapidly responding to ever-changing client requirements. Equally impressive is their stakeholder engagement, where technical skills and knowledge are combined with genuine warmth and empathy.’
‘The team’s key strength is their experience advising in the sector. They have, for want of a better phrase, “been round the block”. For an already skilled in-house this is invaluable as it enables us to cut to the chase on key issues making the advice and cost more efficient and relevant. Every team in every law firm will claim to have the experience you need. This one genuinely does.’
‘Vincent Buscemi is from a generation of lawyers that had really, really good training. He learnt from the best, David Owens, and then went on to develop it further. The end result is an exceptional lawyer. It is always good to have Vincent in your team. He’s friendly, approachable and has a natural aptitude for considering and applying both technical legislative detail and commercial considerations. ’
‘Charlotte Scourfield has been our point of contact and has been responsive and knowledgeable in aiding us address a wide range of queries covering contracts, procurement, funding disputes and the development of our partnership agreement. Her style and approach has meant that we quickly developed a trusting relationship through which she has been able to guide our decision making and has become a key part of our team. ’
‘Strong track record and bredth of knowldege / expertise.’
‘The team always think creatively and outside of the normal legal box to find solutions. Very proactive and focussed on delivering the end goal. Very engaging and customer focussed.’
‘Positive attitude and a “can do” approach in finding solutions for the client.
‘Rosie Jago continues to be a stand out legal partner, with positive attitude, a very strong client focus and excellent delivery orientation.’
Key clients
2gether NHS Foundation Trust and Gloucestershire Care Services NHS Trust
Sussex Primary Care Ltd (SPC)
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Mutual Ventures
Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire CCG
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Barts Health NHS Trust
Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust
Yeovil District Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Norfolk and Norwich NHS Foundation Trust
Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
North Bristol NHS Trust
Royal Devon and Exeter NHS FT
Independent Healthcare Providers Network Limited
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust
Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust
Work highlights
- Assisted various NHS Foundation Trusts with Covid-19-related measures, PFI matters and legal issues in connection with the Nightingale Hospitals.
- Advised IHPN as the co-ordinating trade body on the competition issues arising out of the request for support to the private hospital sector from NHS England in connection with the Covid pandemic.
- Advised Taunton and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust and Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust on the creation of Somerset NHS Foundation Trust through merger by way of acquisition.
Public sector > Local government Tier 1
Bevan Brittan LLP has an established public sector practice which is active for local authorities all across England. It is at the forefront of different agendas such as property regeneration, housing, commercialisation and climate change. The team regularly handles local government reorganisations, investigations, contract management and disputes. David Hutton leads the practice and is the first point of contact for the group's various panels. Sarah Lamont has employment law know-how
Practice head(s):
David Hutton
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Bevan Brittan acted for multiple local authorities and further education institutions in a completion during the pandemic which had to be done entirely remotely. The whole team did an exemplary job in incredibly difficult circumstances. ’
‘David Hutton has an unrivalled understanding of how the public sector works and how the capability and capacity of such clients can vary hugely. He flexes his advice to suit the client which is what singles him out from other providers.’
Key clients
Welsh Government
BCP Council
Local Government Association
London Borough of Haringey
Sunderland City Council
Northamptonshire County Council
London Borough of Brent
Thanet Council, Canterbury City Council, Dover District Council, Folkestone & Hythe Council, East Kent Homes
Birmingham City Council
Cardiff Council
City of London Corporation
Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
Work highlights
- Appointed by the Welsh Government and Welsh Councils to advise all potential participating authorities on the £1.5bn Welsh Education Partnership – Strategic Partnering Delivery Model.
- Assisted the BCP Council with designing the scope of the procurement and contract structure to create an innovative procurement whereby the Council will procure a Strategic Implementation Partner (SIP) to enter into a Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) to support in the implementation of BCP Council’s Organisational Design Model.
- Acted for 52 Fire and Rescue Authorities (FRAs) in England and Wales, defending claims brought by over 5,000 fire-fighters against 52 Fire and Rescue Authorities in England and Wales.
Real estate > Construction Tier 1
Bevan Brittan LLP has considerable capabilities in procurements, transactions, advisory work and dispute resolution. The fields of expertise of the team are urban regeneration, housing projects, hospital estates and highways, and it also has know-how in the education, waste and renewable energy sectors. Louise Robling is considered to be an 'exceptional legal adviser'; she focuses on contentious work and leads the practice jointly with Andrew Tobin, who also heads up the nationwide group. Jonathan Turner specialises in social housing matters.
Practice head(s):
Louise Robling; Andrew Tobin
Other key lawyers:
Nathan Bradberry; Jonathan Turner
Testimonials
‘This team benefits from the excellent training and support provided by Louise Robling. She has a skill at creating exceptional lawyers. The main attribute of this team is that they understand the issues but are pragmatic in their approach. ’
‘Louise Robling has and continues to be an exceptional legal adviser. She is smart, tactical and self assured. The key to her brilliance is that this self-assurance presents creates a calm and measured lawyer. Her approach is to achieve the best for her client. She doesn’t unnecessarily score points and the good relations she builds with all parties adds an unexpected value for her clients particularly when dealing with disputes in the context of a long term commercial relationship. Her approach enables her client to satisfactorily resolve the dispute without burning commercial bridges. ’
‘Knowledge base and expertise. Accessibility and clarity of advice notes.’
‘Their extensive knowledge of both the PFI contract coupled with their strong understanding of the operation, is clear, with every piece of advice given focusing on the impact on our patients and staff.’
Key clients
Viridor
Network Homes
Peabody Housing
Places for People Group
Sovereign Housing Group
Catalyst Housing Group
Sanctuary Group
London Borough of Waltham Forest
London Borough of Havering
Carlisle City Council
Work highlights
- Assisted the London Borough of Havering with the procurement of a joint venture partner to deliver redevelopment and renewal of 12 sites in Havering.
- Advised London Borough of Waltham Forest on the procurement to appoint a developer partner to develop three sites adjacent to Lea Bridge Station.
- Advised BXS LP as the master developer in connection with Brent Cross South re-development in North West London.
Real estate > Social housing Tier 1
At Bevan Brittan LLP, the 'sector knowledge and experience really comes through'. The team impresses with a full service covering corporate governance; regulatory, advisory and litigation; housing management; and property and development matters. Clients include housing associations, local authorities, developers and funders. South West practice head Alison Buckingham has notable knowledge in the public sector. Jonathan Turner is an 'excellent client partner' and deals with regeneration work. Senior associate Kate Hicks is well versed in housing disputes. Jessica Church joined in March 2021 from Trowers & Hamlins LLP.
Practice head(s):
Alison Buckingham
Other key lawyers:
Steve Eccles; Jonathan Turner; Kate Hicks; Jessica Church
Testimonials
‘This is a local practice to us with excellent knowledge of the housing sector. We have also received sound advice with us being kept fully updated of the progress of cases they are representing us on.’
‘Kate Hicks always responds promptly and will go the extra mile to ensure we obtain the best outcome.’
‘We always find Bevan Brittan friendly and easy to deal with – clients like working with them. They have a reliable real estate team.’
‘Very responsive, practical and commercial advice. Sector knowledge and experience really comes through.’
‘Jonathan Turner is an excellent client partner. He always addresses queries promptly and if he doesn’t know he finds someone who can. He is very happy to assist and I feel that he goes out of his way to support me in my role.’
‘Consistent with great advice, scrutinises cases thoroughly and shares knowledge. ’
‘Friendly and personable.’
‘Kate Hicks – have built a good working relationship, always listens to frustrations and shares her rationale in decision making. Very considered in her approach, gives excellent advice and her support during complex cases is much appreciated.’
Key clients
Places for People Group
Sovereign Housing Group
Abri (formally Radian/Yarlington Housing)
Peabody Group
Sanctuary Housing Group
L&Q Group
The Housing Finance Corporation
Network Homes
Vivid Group
Southmead Development Corporation
Ealing Borough Council
Beau Homes Limited
GreenSquare Group
Sage Housing Limited
Hyde Housing Group
Orbit Group
Catalyst Housing Group
Work highlights
- Advised Places for People on its acquisition from the London Legacy Development Corporation of 28 PRS Units and 130 Affordable Units within Phase 1 of the flagship East Wick and Sweetwater development on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford, London.
- Advised Sovereign on the acquisition of a large site in Bristol, which is currently zoned as commercial land and is occupied by car dealerships.
- Advised Selwood Housing on the restructure of a £113m facility from Nationwide Building Society.
Public sector > Healthcare Tier 1
Bevan Brittan LLP advises major NHS providers and over 170 independent and social care organisations on a full range of healthcare matters, including joint ventures and partnering arrangements, governance, regulatory matters, and PFI issues. During the Covid-19 pandemic it has been involved in the formation of the Nightingale hospitals as well as testing and vaccination programmes. Sharon Renouf leads the team, while Rosemary Jago deals with major structurings, fundings, and procurements for NHS clients. Vincent Buscemi focuses on governance arrangements, Carly Caton advises on commercial projects, while Hannah Taylor deals with issues including medical law and human rights. Additionally, Monica Macheng advises care homes, dentists, and medical suppliers on corporate law. Partners Sarah Skuse and Siwan Griffiths joined from Capsticks LLP in October 2020, while partners Louise Leaver and Deborah Rowntree joined from Winckworth Sherwood LLP in April and May 2020, respectively.
Practice head(s):
Sharon Renouf
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Deep experience in large and major Health Service Estates and Property related projects’
‘ Knowledgeable, experienced, engaging and supportive’
‘Strong healthcare network and seeking to create value beyond legal work. Flexibility with billing and investing in long-term relationships.’
‘Vincent Buscemi has been supporting us since inception and has been invaluable since. He has supported us with legal work but also introductions and insights. He is constantly available and will always get personally involved and look at problems in depth when required.’
‘Excellent stakeholder engagement skills, alongside an unparalleled depth of knowledge of the health sector. Vincent Buscemi, Carly Caton and Letitia Winterflood-Blood consistently offer an exceptionally high level of support. Always prepared to go the extra mile, they ensure client satisfaction remains high at all times. They combine expertise with relationship skills, insight and humour.’
Key clients
2gether NHS Foundation Trust and Gloucestershire Care Services NHS Trust
Sussex Primary Care Ltd (SPC)
The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust
Mutual Ventures
Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
The Whittington Health NHS Trust
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust
Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust
The Christie NHS Foundation Trust
South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM)
Work highlights
- Provided ongoing advice on the integration of community services to Mutual Ventures. Ensured that organisations can deliver NHS services collaboratively for the benefit of service users at a local and national level.
- Advised The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust on the development of a £800m new acute hospital as part of phase 2 of the Health Infrastructure Plan (HIP) programme.
- Acted for University Hospitals Birmingham NHS FT, North Bristol NHS Trust, Royal Devon & Exeter NHS FT, Barts Health NHS Trust on the contractual arrangements with NHS England for the Nightingale Hospitals during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Public sector > Local government Tier 1
With teams working across Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds, and London, the large team at Bevan Brittan LLP advises clients on tribunals, regeneration, and procurement matters, as well as on more intricate governance and reorganisation work. Practice head David Hutton advises on transportation, environmental disasters, procurements, and PPPs and PFIs, while Steven Smith focuses on local authority development and regeneration matters. Dispute resolution expert Virginia Cooper frequently advises local authorities on cross-border matters and general public law disputes. In Leeds, Nadeem Arshad is noted for his expertise in waste, energy and renewables projects. The team was strengthened through the 2020 additions of partners Louise Leaver and Deborah Rowntree , who specialise in housing finance and finance respectively, from Winckworth Sherwood LLP. Well-regarded partner Judith Barnes retired in May 2021.
Practice head(s):
David Hutton
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Bevan Brittan quickly understood the Council’s strategic aims and the purpose of the project’
‘Able to provide practical advice, challenge us on our thinking and provide solution-based approaches that improved the council’s initial intentions. Services were provided professionally and they were responsive to our requirements as the project progressed.’
‘David Hutton provided constructive support, helping to shape the requirements to the market based on experience and market awareness’
Key clients
City of London Corporation
London Borough of Brent
Local Government Association
London Borough of Haringey
Sunderland City Council
Northamptonshire County Council
Worcestershire County Council and Worcester City Council
Thanet Council, Canterbury City Council, Dover District Council, Folkestone & Hythe Council, East Kent Homes
Birmingham City Council
Cardiff Council
BCP Council
Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
Welsh Government
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant Tier 1
Tim Hodgetts leads a stellar clinical risk team at Bevan Brittan LLP. Hodgetts acts for NHS Resolution and many NHS trusts and also represents numerous leading insurers on various medical malpractice issues. Joanne Easterbrook is another recognised name for her work on cases involving brain injury and novel mental health and human rights issues. In Birmingham Adrian Dagnall heads the Midlands clinical negligence team and is an NHS Resolution nominated partner. Dagnall is best known for his work on high-profile indexation, periodical payment and high-value quantum cases. Penelope Radcliffe is praised for her work on substantial cerebral palsy and neurological claims. Nicola Pegg has a particular focus on brain injury at birth claims and other catastrophic injury cases.
Practice head(s):
Tim Hodgetts
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is always really helpful, ensures that messages are passed on and calls returned promptly. The lawyers always listen and work carefully to ensure that all voices in a legal matter are heard, they are responsive and engaging.’
‘Simon Lindsay is a superb advocate, tackles difficult issues diplomatically and quickly helps to achieve early resolution. He is responsive and really easy to talk to about some of the more complex clinical issues that can arise‘.
‘The team is clearly focused on getting the best outcome for the client and has the knowledge and skills necessary to handle complex clinical negligence cases. The lawyers are responsive to our needs and we are confident that the team has the depth and breadth to manage our cases well.’
‘Adrian Dagnall is skilled and clever. He is calm and collected when these attributes are needed. I value his advice‘.
‘I am always highly impressed with Bevan Brittan and the work it assists us with. All members of the team that we liaise with are brilliant, easy to approach, talk through cases succinctly but thoroughly. I very much enjoy working with all the team members, in particular Penelope Radcliffe‘.
‘Joanne Easterbrook is our client care partner and very efficient at processing urgent requests for advice/representation and assigning an appropriate person from the team. Jo is always very professional, helpful and her training sessions with our clinicians are always very enthusiastically received‘.
Key clients
NHS Resolution
CNA Hardy
Allianz
Allied World Assurance Co.
Berkshire Hathaway
States of Jersey
Whttington Healthcare NHS Trust
University Hospitals Birmingham
The Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust
Taunton & Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
Public sector > Health Tier 1
Bevan Brittan LLP is highly regarded for its health sector expertise, with its work covering integrated care collaborations, commissioning, income generation activities, PFI variations and disputes. The firm is also involved in complex inquests, HSE/CQC prosecutions and mental health work. The co-heads of the practice are Michael Boyd and James Atkins, who have a solid reputation advising NHS organisations on commercial, capital and primary care development projects. Senior associate Charles Stent often works with Atkins on high-end commercial property mandates.
Practice head(s):
Michael Boyd; James Atkins
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The practice is extremely experienced in the needs of the healthcare sector, and has been very influential in the development of key areas of documentation for the NHS – for example in relation to the ETTF Fund and in establishing precedent documentation for NHS Property Services.’
‘Good blend of skillsets to support transformational change.’
‘Strong reliable team always on hand to give sound commercial advice noting the sensitivities of operating in the health sector.’
‘James Atkins. Clear coherent practical advice is always given no matter what the issue presented to him. He has outstanding knowledge of the field in which he operates and is personable and approachable, making him an excellent asset to the firm and a priceless form of support to our in-house legal team.’
Key clients
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust
Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust
Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Property Services Limited
Connect Limited
NHS England
Community Health Partnerships Limited
Department of Health and Social Care
Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Genomics England
Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
North Tees and Hartlepool Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Yorkshire Ambulance Service NHS Trust
The Christie NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Doncaster CCG
NHS Sheffield CCG
NHS Bassetlaw CCG
NHS East Berkshire CCG
NHS West Ber
Work highlights
- Advising University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust in connection with interface issues between the Trust’s £550m PFI project and a new Loop Road on the PFI site as part of improvements to be carried out by the Local Authority.
- Advising on NHS Property Services’ Lease Regularisation “LRP” programme.
- Appointed to advise Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust in connection with its publicly-funded £195m redevelopment of its two hospitals: Calderdale Royal Hospital in Halifax and Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.
Public sector > Local government Tier 1
Fielding one of the largest national team of lawyers, Bevan Brittan LLP is a top-tier firm for all aspects of local government work. The practice is particularly recognised for its strengths in governance and reorganisation, housing regeneration, IT projects, contract management and matters relating to climate change and environmental issues. Practice head David Hutton is an expert in commercialisation and strategic partnering, and is currently working with the Welsh Government on the £1.5bn Welsh Education Partnership. Other key figures include Judith Barnes and David Kitson (who lead on governance matters), employment partner Sarah Lamont and litigator Judith Hopper.
Practice head(s):
David Hutton
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Royal Borough of Greenwich
Welsh Government
Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council
Local Government Association
London Borough of Haringey
Sunderland City Council
Northamptonshire County Council
London Borough of Brent
Thanet Council, Canterbury City Council, Dover District Council, Folkestone & Hythe Council, East Kent Homes
Allerdale Borough Council
South Lakeland District Council
Milton Keynes Council
City of London Corporation
Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
Work highlights
- Advising Royal Borough of Greenwich Council on the Continuous Improvement Programme in addition to the £multimillion Housing delivery programme as well as supporting the Council on day to day matters including employment and governance.
- Advising London Borough of Brent on an £80m private placement that raised capital to be utilised by the Council for its capital programme, including advice on powers, governance and decision-making, together with EY Capital & Debt Advisory rather than borrowing from the Public Works Loan Board (PWLB).
- Advised Northamptonshire County Council on establishment of a children’s trust against a complex backdrop of government intervention on Finance and social care (DfE) with plans for Government to abolish the Council and create two new unitary Councils.
Real estate > Social housing Tier 1
Bevan Brittan LLP is a leading choice among Yorkshire-based and national registered providers for advice on all types of property acquisitions and disposals, finance work and claims involving housing disrepair, anti-social behaviour and possession issues. Richard Stirk is assisted by Julie Cowan-Clark on housing developments, securities and property transactions on behalf of local authorities.
Practice head(s):
Richard Stirk
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Knowledge of the social housing sector is a key strength.’
‘Ably led by Richard Stirk, the team has outstanding sector knowledge and a “hands-on” commercial approach.’
‘Julie Cowan-Clark was always available at short notice to respond to requests and help solve issues.’
‘They are a personable and customer-focused team. They are using technology to provide reports to support our work internally, we don’t have to chase them for replies, the billing is accurate, transparent and on time.’
Key clients
Karbon Homes Limited
Together Housing Association Limited
Yorkshire Housing Limited
Leeds and Yorkshire Housing Association Limited
Unity Housing Association Limited
Derwent Housing Association Limited
Connect Housing Association Limited
Broadacres Housing Association Limited
Leeds Federated Housing Association Limited
Arches Housing Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Together Commercial Limited on the setting up of a Joint Venture Company with a private developer and Together Housing Association Limited in its acquisition of the affordable homes from the JV.
- Acting for Karbon Homes Limited on its programme of acquiring affordable housing through s106 Agreement across Yorkshire from various private developers including advising on s106 Agreement, mortgagee exclusion clauses and likely security value.
- Advising Unity on the amendments to their Yorkshire Bank loan agreement, extending the term of the revolving facility for a further five years and updating the loan agreement to include a specific permission to on lend funds and bring it in line with the Banks current lending terms and in relation to their first ever THFC Loan from the proceeds of a public bond issue, including advising on the associated securitisation of housing stock to support the THFC Loan.
Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy, project finance and PFI Tier 2
Bevan Brittan LLP is noted for its 'calm and effortless leadership' and is instructed by public and private sector clients in energy, PFI and project finance matters. Led by energy from waste specialist Nadeem Arshad, the team further covers PPP projects, contracts, asset management, and construction issues. Its client portfolio includes developers, funders and fund managers, as well as local authorities and NHS trusts. Nathan Bradberry specialises in energy infrastructure projects.
Practice head(s):
Nadeem Arshad
Other key lawyers:
Nathan Bradberry; Colin McConaghy
Testimonials
‘Experienced, knowledgeable, accessible, and deliver what they say they will.’
‘The team has deep and solid experience across a wide range of projects that they apply with intelligence and tailoring to each hurdle that the project encounters. The calm and effortless leadership within the firm enables the wider project team to use the legal approach as a framework to address each new challenge to fund, regulate and implement a world class project within the constraints of practicality.’
‘They relish the challenge and negotiation both within and outside of our organisation and offer broad support across the needs of a public sector client. Their flexibility in meeting both hard internal rationing and tough demanding negotiations and external awards is impressive. Their unrivalled knowledge of market positions and coaching always provides a winning playbook to use. Always there.’
‘Nadeem Arshad has unrivalled negotiating skills and can in the same sentence both inform and position our negotiations with the well known opposition.’
‘The practice has deep and extensive knowledge in the sector and has worked both sides of the table, thereby being able to offer clients clear advice about different options and their potential outcomes. Their extensive project experience allows them to provide detailed advice based on how they might advise a client on the other side of the table. ’
‘A very experienced and user friendly team.’
‘Colin McConaghy was a real pleasure to work with. Very sensible, pragmatic and timely.’
‘Working with Nadeem Arshad who is a consumate professional. His knowledge of waste and energy contracts is first class and his approach, his manner and the way he interacts means that he is a key member of the team.’
Key clients
4R Group
Viridor
Bank of Ireland (UK) plc
ENGIE
Birmingham City Council
ElectraLink
Cambridgeshire County Council
Isle of Wight Council
Welsh Government
Department of Health
Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust
Kajima Partnerships
Argent
Wigan Council
Nottingham City Council
Work highlights
- Advised the Welsh Government and 24 participating local authorities on a new PPP delivery model, the £1.5bn Welsh Education: 21st Century Schools MIM Programme.
- Advised Bank of Ireland as the lender to significantly restructure a project financed Social Care PFI project.
- Advising the Council on their £500m new Energy from Waste PPP Project and delivery of their future waste management strategy.
Real estate > Commercial property: Bristol Tier 2
Bevan Brittan LLP is traditionally strong in advising NHS trusts, local authorities and housing associations on real estate matters but expanded its client portfolio more into the private sector in recent years. Under the lead of Mark Calverley, the team covers regeneration and development projects. Alison Buckingham is a key contact in social housing questions.
Practice head(s):
Mark Calverley
Other key lawyers:
Alison Buckingham; Rob Harrison; David Hobbs
Testimonials
‘Understands client’s requirements. Excellent in separating legal from commercial issues. Great team and communications are very good. CPD events are tailored to client specific issues.’
‘Clear and concise advice. Easy to work with and understands the client and their needs.’
‘Market knowledge and strong partnering ethos, great customer focus, understands our business and drivers.’
‘I’ve dealt with many different staff at Bevan Brittan but it always feels like a seamless experience – a cohesive team working together to the same standards and with the same approaches.’
‘What I value most at Bevan Brittan is their honesty and transparency – I know I can trust their advice.’
‘Mark Calverley is a regular contact, and I genuinely feel that we have a partnership rather than a customer-supplier relationship.’
Key clients
Canal & River Trust
The Electoral Commission
Places for People Homes Limited
City of London Corporation
Sovereign Housing Association Limited
Southmead Development Trust
Cardiff Council
North Somerset Council
NHS Property Services
Great Western Air Ambulance Charity
Department of Health and Social Care
Storm Properties Limited
Slough Borough Council
Peabody Group
London Borough of Hounslow
Sanctuary Housing Group
National Savings and Investments
Royal London Borough of Greenwich
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 2
The team at Bevan Brittan LLP has 'strength in depth'; it is regularly instructed by public sector clients from the health, education, local authorities and housing areas but also increasingly by the private sector. Disputes often encompass landlord-tenant arrangements, proposed land sales, rent strikes and secured lending. Practice head Steve Eccles has considerable experience in the social housing area. Senior associate Kate Hicks is 'always thorough and well prepared.'
Practice head(s):
Steven Eccles
Other key lawyers:
Kevin Dawson; Kate Hicks
Testimonials
‘Bevan Brittan has an extremely strong, experienced and well-regarded real estate litigation practice. They have strength in depth, some very big clients and a rich stream of interesting work. They have impressed me this year by managing some heavy pieces of litigation seamlessly, and with good use of technology, during the pandemic period.’
‘Steve Eccles does a lot of work for local authorities and NHS bodies and is particularly strong in real property cases with a public law angle to them; and has good knowledge familiarity with how local and public authorities operate and litigate, which I know is much appreciated by those clients. He is clearly interested in the detail of the finer legal arguments, but never loses sight of the bigger, commercial picture – he keeps his eyes firmly on the prize. I would have no hesitation recommending him to clients.’
‘Excellent property legal knowledge. Practical, accurate advice and common sense approach. Attention to detail. Effective case management and ability to manage multiple cases. Swift assistance. ’
‘Kevin Dawson is an excellent and experienced Senior Associate, providing expert advice on property. Knowledgeable, professional, efficient, responsive, patient and easy to work with. Great from start to finish! ’
‘Bevan Brittan are a modern, pragmatic and commercially focused firm. They are very responsive to our needs and frequently provide usual updates or sector specific knowledge and advice.’
‘Kate Hicks – a good senior associate who is involved in management of the team and the client relationship management. Always thorough and well prepared.’
‘Excellent property legal knowledge. Practical, accurate advice and common sense approach. Attention to detail. Effective case management and ability to manage multiple cases. Swift assistance. ‘
‘Steve Eccles is a pleasure to work with. Down to earth, pragmatic with impressive legal expertise. I would strongly recommend his services.’
Key clients
Canal & River Trust
Places for People Group
NHS Property Services Limited
Sanctuary Housing Group
University of Oxford
Peabody Group
Brent Council
Bath & North East Somerset Council
De Montfort University
Oxford City Council
Orbit Group
Pearce Fine Homes Limited
Allerdale Borough Council
LiveWest Homes
Sovereign Group
Abri (formerly Radian/Yarlington Housing Group)
Work highlights
- Acting for the Brent Council in a trial involving complex issues which made new law regarding charitable trusts over land and whether the Attorney-General must be a party to any litigation where the existence of a charitable trust is in dispute.
- Appointed as sole external advisors to Sanctuary to deal with property disputes relating to Sanctuary’s national housing stock.
- Acting as lead solicitors to the NHS’ national property company on contentious property issues across its national estate, including advising on core strategic issues and litigation.
Insurance > Clinical negligence: defendant Tier 2
The 'impressive' practitioners at Bevan Brittan LLP are recognised experts in cosmetic and aesthetic medical malpractice issues, but are also known for advising on a range of complex neurosurgical, orthopaedic and ophthalmic claims. One client notes that the firm has been 'instructed in many authoritative cases over many years'; this was most recently evidenced by Dan Morris' involvement in the Supreme Court case of XX v Whittington Hospital NHS Trust. Recent areas of growth for the team include international work and psychiatric cases. The department is also seeing increasing instructions from insurers and independent healthcare providers. Highly regarded practitioner Joanne Easterbrook leads the team, which also includes senior associates Julie Charlton and Penelope Radcliffe.
Practice head(s):
Joanne Easterbrook
Other key lawyers:
Julie Charlton; Dan Morris; Penelope Radcliffe; Catherine Radford
Testimonials
‘The firm has been instructed in many authoritative cases over many years (including in the Supreme Court). Preparation of cases is second to none. The London team is always thinking of ways in which the NHS’ handling of claims could be assisted and costs could be reduced (ie by introducing arbitration/mediation schemes).’
‘Knowledge, both legal and practical, and a realistic view of strengths and weaknesses of cases. The senior individuals will always give the right advice, however unpalatable. I would recommend Joanne Easterbrook, Penelope Radcliffe and Julie Charlton as three of the best senior people, but one of the strengths of the team is the number of high class junior employees they have as well. All are impressive.’
‘The team at BB has strong and longstanding relationships in London with a number of NHS trusts, medical defence organisations and private hospital groups. The team specialises in medical liability and regulatory cases involving all types of health professionals. It provides, I believe, an excellent service to each. The team has good experience and expertise of the medical issues underlying claims and prides itself on giving its clients early, sensible and realistic advice. This helps to reduce the cost of claims and enables the client to fix a sensible reserve at an early stage.’
‘Catherine Radford is a very able lawyer. She is extremely hard working and has good judgement. She also has excellent client care skills. She is also a very experienced litigator and is particularly good with disputes involving several different parties. I have been consistently impressed by her strategic and tactical skills and overall command of the claim. She achieves excellent results for her clients through her clear-sighted identification of the key issues and her success in patiently but firmly negotiating a good outcome with other parties. Julie Charlton is very experienced and dedicated. She too has good judgement and client care skills. She is very focused on the client but is not afraid to call a halt to the defence of a claim which is likely to fail. She is a good and determined negotiator. However, her excellent client care skills do not prevent her giving difficult advice when it is necessary.’
‘Always friendly and kind. Always supportive.’
‘Bevans as a team is great, they are always so helpful and quick to assist us even within a short space of time. they are very responsive and always quick to support. The people are friendly, there’s a good level of diversity and great collaboration.’
‘Joanne Easterbrook and the Clinical Risk London Team at Bevan Brittan are leaders in their field; they have quality across the board. Always highly knowledgeable, professional and a pleasure to work with.’
Key clients
NHS Resolution
CNA Hardy
Allianz
Allied World Assurance Co.
Berkshire Hathaway
States of Jersey
Whttington Healthcare NHS Trust
The Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust
Kent & Medway NHS & Social Care Partnership Trust
Guys & St Thomas’s Healthcare NHS Trust
West London Health Trust
St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
South West Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Mid & South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
Public sector > Administrative and public law Tier 2
Bevan Brittan LLP's 'highly professional and efficient' team is particularly well known for its expertise in the health, social care, education and housing sectors, where it provides full-service support to clients in relation to judicial reviews, discrimination claims, special educational needs and mental health matters. Among recent highlights, the firm successfully represented NHS England in proceedings brought by the British Homeopathic Association regarding the client's decision to include homeopathy on the list of medicines and treatments which should not be routinely prescribed by GPs. Virginia Cooper, who co-leads the group with Judith Barnes, is an expert in the contentious and non-contentious aspects of public law, with an emphasis on issues concerning local government and healthcare clients. Stuart Marchant stands out for his niche in complex mental health litigation, which he handles alongside broader regulatory work in the health and social care fields. Olivia Carter is recommended for her expertise in procurement challenges and judicial reviews.
Practice head(s):
Virginia Cooper; Judith Barnes
Other key lawyers:
Olivia Carter; Amy Tschobotko; Jason Tandy; Stuart Marchant
Testimonials
‘BB is unique in being a full-service law firm with a deep understanding of public sector clients and their particular needs. In my area of commercial and public procurement law, that means that I can take it as a given that the commercial lawyer I speak to will also be aware of public procurement and wider public law considerations that may impinge on the commercial law advice given, as well as the particular challenges and sensitivities that public sector entities face in their commercial dealings with external parties.’
‘I worked with Bevan Brittan on a complex matter concerning allegations of forced marriage. My experience was that the firm was highly professional and efficient in dealing with that case.’
‘Virginia Cooper – highly responsive and in tune with client’s needs and keen to meet them in a helpful and pragmatic way.’
‘I felt that the team, in addition to possessing the legal expertise that would be expected of a private practice team, were very client focused. The advice was pragmatic and always timely.’
‘I was very impressed with Olivia Carter’s legal skills; we were seeking specialist skills in litigation which we do not have in-house. Also her ability to work with us as part of the team. Olivia was always very client-oriented.’
Key clients
Financial Services Compensation Scheme
Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
Local Government Association
NHS England and NHS Improvement
West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust
Financial Conduct Authority
Police and Crime Commissioner for Warwickshire
London Borough of Barnet
London Borough of Greenwich
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
Gloucestershire Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust
Somerset CCG
Real estate > Social housing: finance Tier 2
Bevan Brittan LLP acts predominantly for borrowers on the negotiation of new loans, the reorganisation of existing facilities and joint venture arrangements. In addition, the firm is also active in lender-side mandates, with its team advising on private placements and public bond issues, among other matters. The housing finance practice is led by the 'highly personable and effective professional' Louise Leaver, who specialises in advising on innovative funding initiatives, such as off-balance sheet delivery models. The department is supported by the property charging team, which is jointly lead by Wendy Wilks and Richard Stirk, and acts for lenders dealing with large portfolios being charged by housing associations. David Moore is experienced in financings and refinancings of complex transactions. Jessica Church joined from Trowers & Hamlins LLP. In another development, Sarah Greenhalgh made partner.
Practice head(s):
Louise Leaver
Other key lawyers:
Wendy Wilks; Richard Stirk; David Moore; Jonathan Turner; Sarah Greenhalgh; Deborah Rowntree; Jessica Church
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable, professional, engaging, reliable and customer focussed.’
‘A good team with deep experience of acting on social housing finance matters.’
‘They take a very collaborative approach to working with their clients, such that they don’t feel like external advisors but part of our team.’
‘Recently started working with Bevan Brittan. They are knowledgeable and proactive, very easy to speak to and help cut through any legal jargon.’
‘Their knowledge and the standard of legal advice they provide; special mention to Wendy Wilks, Louise Leaver and Deborah Rowntree.’
‘The team at Bevan Brittan are committed to delivering a professional and best practice service and have a strong work ethic.’
Key clients
ForViva Group
M&G Investment Management Limited
Prudential Trustee Company Limited
The Housing Finance Corporation Limited (THFC)/Affordable Housing Finance Plc/bLEND Funding Plc
Pioneer Housing and Community Group Limited
Selwood Housing Society Limited
Together Housing Group
Places for People
Croydon Churches Housing Association
Network Homes
Work highlights
- Advised Pioneer on the negotiation and entry into a £35m private placement facility with Scottish Widows and related charging and release work.
- Advised M&G Investment Management Limited as structuring agent and Prudential as security trustee in a £30m secured private placement to Rhondda Housing Association Limited and reorganisation of the property security.
- Advised Selwood Housing Society Limited on the restructure of a £113m facility from Nationwide Building Society.
Employment > Health and safety Tier 2
Bevan Brittan LLP has a broad practice that represents local authorities in health and safety prosecutions as well as defending independent and public sector organisations from HSE or CQC investigations and enforcement actions. It has particular strength in the public sector as its supports well over 100 NHS trust clients (including many ambulance trusts). The nimble team continues to develop its fire safety expertise advising a range of its housing clients on their fire safety obligations and other matters. Adam Kendall has a wealth of experience in this area.
Practice head(s):
Adam Kendall; Hannah Taylor; Stuart Marchant; Carlton Sadler
Key clients
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
Work highlights
- Advised and represented University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust throughout the CQC’s first duty of candour prosecution.
Employment > Immigration Tier 2
Bevan Brittan LLP has a strong national offering that is particularly known in the NHS, healthcare and university sectors. It had a busy year advising on the implications of Brexit and has won some significant new clients recently in addition to having strong links with Magic Circle law firms. Ashley Norman leads the team out of Birmingham. Norman regularly advises clients from different sectors on immigration compliance and audits, certificates of sponsorship as well as right to work issues. Associate Jaspal Basra advises numerous organisations with a particular focus on universities and NHS trusts.
Practice head(s):
Ashley Norman
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is knowledgeable and experienced with issues that affect the HE sector’.
Key clients
De Montfort University
Birmingham City University
Kingston NHS Healthcare Trust
Charlie Goldsmith Associates
Waltham Forest Clinical Commissioning Group
Royal Free NHS Trust
Public sector > Local government Tier 2
With a large national team, Bevan Brittan LLP advises local authorities on various key matters, including real estate projects, governance issues, contract management work and employment litigation. David Hutton has a wealth of experience in PFI and PPP outsourcing models and procurement strategies, and Rebecca Pendlebury stands out for her role in numerous public sector development schemes, including mixed-use regeneration projects. Kirtpal Kaur Aujla is also a key member of the team, with a strong track record in handling collaboration and outsourcing arrangements on behalf of various local councils.Practice head(s):
David Hutton
Other key lawyers:
Rebecca Pendlebury; Kirtpal Kaur Aujla; Alex Lawrence
Key clients
Northamptonshire County Council
Birmingham City Council
Sixty Bricks Limited
London Borough of Waltham Forest
London Borough of Havering
Oxford City Council
Royal London Borough of Greenwich
Cardiff County Council
Leicestershire County Council
London Borough of Sutton
Work highlights
- Advising Birmingham City Council on its £500m new waste PPP project, in addition to the delivery of its future waste management strategy.
- Assisting Sandwell MBCs regional collaboration project with the establishment and maintenance of temporary mortuary facilities at Birmingham Airport as part of its response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Advising Birmingham City Council on the procurement of a development partner to deliver the Smithfield regeneration scheme.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Bristol Tier 3
Bevan Brittan LLP's litigation, advisory and regulatory practice is experienced in acting for private sector companies and public sector clients in public procurement challenges. Birmingham-based Adam Kendall leads the national practice while Emily Heard heads up the group in Bristol and specialises in procurement litigation, contractual disputes and judicial reviews. Other names to note for public procurement disputes include recently promoted partner Fran Mussellwhite and 'real stars' Laura Brealey and Trevor Watt, while 'excellent' senior associate Wesley O’Brien handles a range of breach of contract claims as well as defamation and reputation management disputes.
Practice head(s):
Adam Kendall; Emily Heard
Other key lawyers:
Fran Mussellwhite; Wesley O’Brien; Laura Brealey; Kyle Duggan; Katie Harris; Trevor Watt
Testimonials
‘They provide an excellent service for public bodies and have an exceptional depth of knowledge of their sector.’
‘I generally deal with Wesley O’Brien who is excellent. He is easy to work with, extremely knowledgeable on the law, particularly in relation to matters concerning local government and public authorities and has a very good sense of what the client requires and seeks. ’
‘Really good team with cross-disciplinary skills, knowledge and experience.’
‘Strong capability dealing with a wide range of complex issues.’
‘Some really good lawyers who are helpful and very skilled. Laura Brealey and Trevor Watt are real stars.’
‘Highly responsive, engaged and able to get up to speed with the context of the case as well as providing accessible, accurate legal advice.’
‘Kyle Duggan (solicitor) was extremely knowledgeable in his field of public procurement, worked collaboratively with in-house legal, and provided unequivocal advice and reports offering reassurance for internal decision makers.’
‘Katie Harris: disputes solicitor with great problem-solving skills.‘
Key clients
Financial Services Compensation Scheme Ltd
Whittington Health NHS Trust
City of London Corporation
ERS Medical Ltd
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust
Work highlights
- Representing Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust in a software licence dispute against Chameleon Information Management Services Ltd in the Technology and Construction Court (London).
- Successfully obtained summary judgment for Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust in the defence of a £2m claim for damages brought against the Trust for breach of contract.
- Successfully defended the Whittington Health NHS Trust at trial in the Technology and Construction Court in a claim by Ryhurst Ltd in respect of the abandonment of a procurement for a strategic estates partner.
Real estate > Planning Tier 3
Bevan Brittan LLP is known for its activity in the local authority, housing and health space but also increased its workload in the private sector. The team advises on redevelopments, regeneration schemes and local government planning matters, and works closely with the firm's UK offices in national instructions. Team head Kathryn Lawrance is well versed in the full life cycle of planning applications.
Practice head(s):
Kathryn Lawrance
Other key lawyers:
Dalee Kaur
Key clients
London Borough of Hounslow
Sedgemoor District Council
Rother District Council
Birmingham City Council
Places for People Homes Limited
The Sovereign Group
Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust
NHS Property Services Limited
Network Homes Limited
Walsall Council
Private client > Court of protection Tier 3
Bevan Brittan LLP has an excellent team that operates nationally through its various offices. Clients include commissioners and providers across the health, social care, education and housing sectors. It works with the public, independent and third sector (such as charities) advising on a whole host of complex issues under the Mental Capacity Act and Mental Health Act as well as human rights and equality issues (including liberty and protection safeguards). Out of London Stuart Marchant is a leading member of the team.
Practice head(s):
Tim Hodgetts (Head of Clinical Risk Department); Simon Lindsay (Head of Health, Care and Regulatory Law team); Hannah Taylor; Stuart Marchant
Testimonials
‘This huge team is able to cover the whole range of Court of Protection matters. Hannah Taylor is a stand out expert in mental capacity issues‘.
‘It has an unusual depth of expertise in all healthcare matters which is of great use in Court of Protection matters. Simon Lindsay- level headed, insightful and always a pleasure to deal with. Stuart Marchant – bright and experienced. Hannah Taylor – always shows exceptional commitment to her cases with a real eye for detail‘.
‘Very on top of the law and procedure, flexible and able to deal with urgent matters calmly. Hannah Taylor – strong analytic skills, calm, pleasant to work with‘.
Key clients
Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust
Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Gloucester Health and Care NHS Foundation Trust (formerly 2gether NHS Foundation Trust)
South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
The Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire CCG
West London NHS Trust
NHS West Hampshire CCG
Real estate > Social housing: local authorities and registered providers Tier 3
Bevan Brittan LLP's full-service social housing practice offers 'a seamless service from associate up to partner' advising on corporate governance, finance, property development and housing management. The 'collaborative and solution-focused' team is noted for its work on joint venture schemes and has additional experience in section 106 and “golden brick” acquisitions, as well as shared ownership sales. Louise Leaver has taken over as head of housing from Jonathan Turner, who continues to advise on housing-led development and regeneration schemes. Housing lead partners Wendy Wilks and Andrew Shaw act for both for-profit and not-for-profit registered providers covering property development, finance and mergers.
Practice head(s):
Louise Leaver; Wendy Wilks; Andrew Shaw
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Bevan Brittan have brought a coordinated multidisciplinary approach to our project and have readily drawn on and coordinated advice from colleagues to ensure a holistic view is provided.’
Key clients
London & Quadrant
Sage Housing
Peabody Group
Places for People Group
Catalyst Housing Group
Orbit Homes
Hyde Housing
Network Homes
Vivid Homes
Sanctuary Group
Sovereign Housing
London Borough of Barnet
London Borough of Brent
London Borough of Ealing
London Borough of Hounslow
London Borough of Newham
Work highlights
- Assisted Sage Housing, a newly acquired client, the largest “for profit” housing association in the UK funded by private equity, with its rolling programme to acquire 5,000 new affordable housing units each year from a variety of national housebuilders and smaller local developers.
- Advised Peabody Land Limited on its joint venture with Lendlease to deliver over 11,500 new homes over 40 years, with a development value of circa £8billion, which includes constructing a new Docklands Light Railway (DLR) tunnel extension under the River Thames to serve the new homes.
- Acted for Catalyst Housing Limited on the transfer of engagements from Aldwyck Housing to Catalyst in accordance with the statutory process set out in the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014, following their recent merger with which the firm also assisted.
Employment > Pensions Tier 3
The employment, pensions, and immigration practice group at Bevan Brittan LLP is now under the leadership of experienced practitioner Nigel Bolton, who was formerly at Freeths LLP, bringing with him over a decade of expertise advising pensions scheme and trustees on mergers, and large outsourcings. The group handles transactional matters, risk reduction issues and complaints before the Pension Ombudsman. Philip Woolham (who was previously at Knights plc) is recommended for pensions advice related to the private sector. Lyndsay Mair is also of note.
Practice head(s):
Nigel Bolton
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
National Savings and Investments
Financial Conduct Authority
NHS England
Luton Borough Council
Work highlights
- Advising Luton Borough Council on the transfer of pension liabilities to improve a not-for-profit provider’s financial position.
Projects, energy and natural resources (including PFI) > Infrastructure and energy Tier 3
At Bevan Brittan LLP, the national infrastructure practice has strength in large-scale projects and PPP matters and is led by London-based Andrew Tobin. The team has bolstered its capacity with the recruitment of project disputes expert Judith Hopper from DLA Piper, who advises clients across the waste, energy and construction sectors. On the commercial projects side, Michael Boyd in Leeds is the main contact and has a large roster of NHS bodies as key clients.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Tobin
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The breadth of knowledge and the flexibility of the team to adapt to the varying requirements of our business is excellent, in respect of both legal advice and in supporting our in house team with training and development.’
‘Great team, very organised and adaptable. Works well with clients.’
‘Judith Hopper is very much into the detail, with a reassuring manner.’
‘Fantastic, very well resourced and knowledgeable team, with excellent client management. An absolute pleasure to work with.’
‘Judith Hopper is outstanding – very thorough, knowledgeable and calm in the eye of the storm.’
Key clients
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
Department of Health
Calderdale and Huddersfield NHS Foundation Trust
Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Sunderland City Council
Real estate > Commercial property: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 3
Bevan Brittan LLP‘s commercial property offering is spread between members of the commercial team, which is led by Deborah Powell and Lyndon Campbell. The firm’s work covers investment acquisitions, sales, refinances and estate management work. James Atkins, Richard Stirk and Julie Cowan-Clark are other key individuals in the group. Public sector and health-related development projects are core areas of activity, as are land acquisitions and residential development projects.Practice head(s):
Lyndon Campbell
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
A Shade Greener Finance Limited
Modernistiq Developments – Group of Companies
Grafton UK Limited
The Yorkshire Big City Co – Group of Companies
Communication Workers Union
Church Farm Homes Limited
Escapism Bar Group and related companies
The Classic Prop Hire Company Limited
NHS Property Services Limited
Community Health Partnerships Limited
Department of Health and Social Care
All Property Management Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust on four leases of space in 2 Park Lane, Leeds totalling over 50,000 sq. ft. of accommodation.
- Advised Modernistiq (Hull) Limited on the acquisition of former bank premises in Kingston upon Hull from LPA Receivers for conversion into 50 apartments.
- Ongoing advice to The Yorkshire Big City Co in relation to the development of the site for the construction of 31 residential units.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 3
Bevan Brittan LLP's James Teagle continues to lead and grow the contentious property practice, with the firm attracting a steady stream of instructions from LPA receivers, insolvency practitioners and insurers. Teagle advises clients on business tenancy renewals, landlord and tenant issues and land disputes.
Practice head(s):
James Teagle
Testimonials
‘James Teagle has been working with us on our case and has been a joy to work with – professional, capable, engaging and personable.’
‘Bevan Brittan’s key strength is truly personal service from a national firm. It stands out for its value for money whilst delivering a first rate service: a firm that does proper lawyering rather than just churning paper like so many others.’
‘They are always open to suggestion and are able to think outside the box in order to get the right result for the client. They are also commercial when it comes to fees.’
‘We have been particularly impressed with James Teagle, not only with his legal knowledge but his pro-active attitude to resolving issues that arise. James is very professional and friendly and always available to provide advice. He has a level manner that brings clarity and calmness where disputes arise.’
‘A no frills, down to earth and approachable team who clearly have an understanding of the work they deal with a commercial approach to solving problems.’
‘James Teagle is quick, incisive, practical and pragmatic. He advises me and my team on property receivership matters where these qualities are of great value.’
Key clients
NHS Property Services
Well Pharmacy
RBH Properties
Hornbeam Park Developments
Direct Collection Bailiffs
Dematic
Grafton (UK) Limited
Places for People
The Classic Prop Hire Limited
West One Loan Limited
Aura Finance Limited
Aspen Bridging Limited
FRP Advisory Trading Limited
Strettons Limited
J. Arkwright & Co.
Work highlights
- Pursuing a terminal dilapidations claim on behalf of a developer, relating to a number of connected office blocks, with an estimated value of £10M.
- Advising the housing association on contentious issues relating to its proposed purchase of a substantial development site, which involved the release of covenants, varying of the land to be purchased, variations to covenants and proposed terms for a deed of covenant.
- Advising an operator on its ability to use and maintain cabling which serves their wind turbines and which is laid under land owned by third parties.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Bristol Tier 4
Bevan Brittan LLP has knowledge in advising public sector clients, including local authorities, the NHS and central government bodies, on corporate transactions, alongside a healthy diet of private sector work. The group has experience in M&A, establishing new corporate vehicles and joint ventures, as well as investments, buy-outs and spin-offs. The department is co-led by Chris Harper, a corporate lawyer with expertise in complex corporate restructuring and investment vehicles, and Marti Burgess, who focuses on SME transactions. Legal director Richard Hiscoke has developed a practice advising local authorities on social investment projects.
Practice head(s):
Chris Harper; Marti Burgess
Other key lawyers:
Richard Hiscoke; Hannah Ward; Laura Dodds
Testimonials
‘I found the team very attentive and knowledgeable. The different legal disciplines required to complete our deal collaborated perfectly to ensure the deal went through on time and with the commercial terms that we were comfortable with.’
‘Bevan Brittan has a strong client focus and really worked on building a relationship and supporting our goals, not just providing disparate pieces of advice. We have had a number of strands on a major project, including corporate, property and state aid, and they have seamlessly brought these together.’
‘Richard Hiscoke held our hand during the acquisition. He was very calm and reassuring and enabled us to complete a deal that was on our terms.’
Key clients
IDC Limited
Together Commercial
First Corporate Law Services
Veezu Holdings
Cardio Solutions
Sirran Engineering Services
Commerce Business Systems
Red Arrow Electrical Distribution
Concept Plastic Packaging
Compass Business Finance
Ardent (Group)
Canal & River Trust
Places for People
Peabody Trust
Wirral Borough Council
Commercial Services Kent Limited
Dowlis Global
Work highlights
- Advising Lincolnshire County Council on the establishment of an alternative business structure for a new vehicle which would enable it to deliver legal services in an innovative way and assist partner local authorities in the east of England as well as other local public bodies.
- Advised and assisted Retirement Living on a solvent restructure arising out of a rationalisation of its care home portfolio.
- Advised Together Housing (the group manages 36,000 units and is one of Homes England’s strategic partners) on its corporate joint venture with Lovell Partnerships, aiming to build 3,000 homes across the North and Midlands in the next five years.
Employment > Health and safety Tier 4
Bevan Brittan LLP 's health and safety practice is led by Adam Kendall , and focuses on local authority and public sector representation in HSE and CQC investigations. The team recently represented an NHS Trust against the CQC's first 'duty of candour' breach prosecution. Advisory work is also a core factor of the team's offering, specialising in safety; fire safety; gas safety; asbestos; and legionella obligations and statutory compliance across all sectors. Clients benefit from the group's proactive approach via regular training, preparation, and mock-inspections.
Practice head(s):
Adam Kendall;
Other key lawyers:
Hannah Taylor; Stuart Marchant; Carlton Sadler
Testimonials
‘Good client management, work with the political constraints of the organisation. Assist the client to understand forecast costs throughout the life of the case and reduce costs where possible.’
‘Adam Kendall has worked well with us to understand our needs and has given us a high level of confidence in what he and the team can deliver.’
‘Carlton Sadler is quite outstanding.’
Key clients
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust
Work highlights
- Advised and represented the University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust throughout the CQC’s first duty of candour prosecution.
Public sector > Education: schools Tier 4
Andrew Tobin heads up the schools practice at Bevan Brittan LLP, which is best known for advising local authorities and government entities; it also advises individual schools. Key areas of work include assisting local authorities with capitally funded projects for schools and academies.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Tobin
Key clients
Department for Education
London Borough of Barnet
Welsh Assembly Government
London Borough of Lewisham
Barnsley Local Education Partnership
London Borough of Hackney
City of London Corporation
Real estate > Commercial property: development Tier 4
Bevan Brittan LLP is a national UK firm with a distinct focus on acting for NHS bodies, local authorities and registered providers, in addition to advising entities from the social care and private health fields. Ian Caplan is noted for his prowess in hospital redevelopments, while Steven Smith has experience of supporting over 20 London boroughs on local authority-led regeneration and development projects. Mark Calverley is the practice head.
Practice head(s):
Mark Calverley
Other key lawyers:
Wendy Wilks; Mark Paget Skelin; Ian Caplan; Steven Smith
Testimonials
‘Speedy, practical and user-friendly.’
‘Mark Paget-Skellin is dynamic and very user-friendly.’
Key clients
Charnwood Borough Council
Barts Health NHS Trust
Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
The Christie NHS Foundation Trust
City of London Corporation
London Borough of Hounslow
Greater London Authority
Royal Holloway University of London
Peabody
Johnson Matthey PLC
Work highlights
- Supporting Barts Health NHS Trust on property instructions over the last 15 years, which recently included assisting the client with negotiating the documents for a mass vaccination centre at ExCel London.
- Advising the City of London Corporation on its development partnership with the Museum of London, which is set to deliver the £600m redevelopment of former Smithfield Market to provide a new, state-of-the-art facility for the Museum.
- Advising Anthology (Kennington Stage) Limited on major residential planning application for the former Woodlands and Master’s House in Lambeth, which proposes the erection of a 29 storey building and 258 residential units.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham Tier 4
Bevan Brittan LLP's commercial litigation team attracts praise for its 'very practical and pragmatic approach to dispute resolution'. Adam Kendall leads the national practice and is particularly known for disputes arising out of the delivery of public infrastructure projects.
Practice head(s):
Adam Kendall
Other key lawyers:
Emma Beynon
Testimonials
‘Very practical and pragmatic approach to dispute resolution. Friendly, no-nonsense and good to work with.’
‘Strengths are they really work well as a team to provide the maximum support to the client, particularly in thinking collaboratively for innovative solutions to complex situations. The breadth of in-house specialisms has meant that there is little delay in getting advice.’
Key clients
Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
Work highlights
- Defended Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust in a £2m breach of contract claim brought by Pro-Vision Systems Limited, a supplier of advertising/information plasma screens for NHS hospitals.
- Defending Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust in a software licencing agreement dispute brought by Chameleon Information Services.
Employment Tier 4
The Birmingham-based team at Bevan Brittan LLP has considerable expertise in the healthcare and local government sectors. In addition it also acts for a range of clients in the private, education and international arenas. The practice continues to do some interesting work for its NHS clients such as advising on complex employment tribunal claims for NHS trusts that often involve issues of race, sex, disability and whistleblowing elements. Ashley Norman works on both contentious and advisory matters. James Gutteridge has a particular focus on health sector clients.Practice head(s):
Jodie Sinclair; Ashley Norman
Other key lawyers:
James Gutteridge; Michelle Wooding
Testimonials
‘Outstanding knowledge of employment law in extremely complex cases. Works very collaboratively as a team to come up with solutions and to avoid delays to the client. ’
‘Ashley Norman and James Gutteridge are incredibly supportive, always on hand. Leaves no stone or option unturned whilst mindful of client budgets. Instils confidence’.
‘High quality advice, timely, committed, with a pragmatic approach’.
‘Ashley Norman is highly competent with a common sense approach’.
‘We have worked with Michelle Wooding for several years and have found her support and advice to be of the highest quality. We feel that she talks to us in practical terms that we can understand rather than everything in long, legal terms and references’.
Key clients
Surrey Fire & Rescue Service
Birmingham City Council
Planet Organic Limited
David Koma Fashion Limited
Hauck Heat Treatment
North and East London Commissioning Support Unit
Rehability UK Ltd
Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Authority
Birmingham City University
De Montfort University
Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham Tier 4
Bevan Brittan LLP has a track record of work on complex projects, including regeneration schemes, handled on behalf of local authorities, registered providers, universities and healthcare clients. Rebecca Pendlebury leads the department and is a specialist in public sector-led development projects, including those with a joint venture element; she is also engaged for property acquisitions and disposals in the public sector and is supported by property disputes lawyer, Mark Robertson.
Practice head(s):
Rebecca Pendlebury
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Sixty Bricks Limited
London Borough of Waltham Forest
London Borough of Havering
Oxford City Council
London Borough of Sutton
Eastwick and Sweetwater Projects (Phase 1) Limited
Royal London Borough of Greenwich
Cardiff County Council
Leicestershire County Council
Northamptonshire County Council
Work highlights
- Advising Sixty Bricks Limited, a development company wholly owned by the London Borough of Waltham Forest which was set up to expedite housing delivery and ensure that a high level of affordable housing can be provided within vibrant communities. The team negotiated and completed all the documentation required for the delivery of the first scheme and are now advising on the next two development projects.
- Advised the London Borough of Waltham Forest on a competitive dialogue procurement to appoint a developer partner to develop three sites adjacent to Lea Bridge Station, with the aim of delivering a high-quality, residential-led mixed-use development and public realm.
- Instructed by the London Borough of Havering in connection with the procurement of a joint venture partner to deliver redevelopment and renewal of 12 sites in Havering including the large Waterloo Estate, adjacent to Romford.
Real estate > Social housing Tier 4
Bevan Brittan LLP is instructed for an array of social housing-related work, covering corporate governance, disputes, regulatory, development and housing management matters. Sarah Greenhalgh, the firm’s housing lead for the West Midlands, has a recent track record in housing association M&A, corporate and funding models, joint ventures, charity law and governance affairs. Rebecca Pendlebury is also a key contact, owing to her position as local head of property and expertise in mixed-use regeneration schemes.
Practice head(s):
Jonathan Turner; Sarah Greenhalgh; Rebecca Pendlebury
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team provides clear legal advice in a way that is easy to understand. The team go above and beyond to support clients and provide excellent networking/introductory meetings for like minded people. The people are what sets this team apart, they are down to earth, able to understand the needs of the client and provide advice within the agreed timescales.
‘The fee quotes are clear. The communication is excellent and the team keeps me updated on a frequent basis. The team deliver value for money in comparison to some other firms.’
‘Sarah Greenhalgh stands out as a professional and dedicated lawyer. Sarah has a thorough understanding of governance and the complexities of the unique housing sector. Sarah is able to demonstrate confidence and grace when interacting with clients. I have been very impressed with the work that Sarah has delivered and Bevan Brittan will continue to be a go-to firm of mine because of the quality of people.’
Key clients
Catalyst Housing Limited
Abri
YMCA Coventry & Warwickshire and YMCA Birmingham
Royal London Borough of Greenwich
Leicestershire County Council
Sixty Bricks Limited
London Borough of Waltham Forest
London Borough of Havering
Oxford City Council
Together Housing Group
Sage Housing Limited
Broadacres
Leeds and Yorkshire Housing Association
Pioneer Group
Walsall Housing Group
Work highlights
- Following on from its work bringing Aldwyck Housing Group Limited into the Catalyst group as a subsidiary, the team acted on the transfer of engagements from Aldwyck to Catalyst in accordance with the statutory process set out in the Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Act 2014.
- Appointed by the Royal Borough of Greenwich to advise on their key strategic Housing Delivery Programme which seeks to establish the Royal Borough as one of the national and regional leaders in the delivery of social rented, genuinely affordable council housing.
- Advised Sixty Bricks Limited, a development company wholly owned by the London Borough of Waltham Forest set up to expedite housing delivery and ensure that a high level of affordable housing can be provided within vibrant communities. The team negotiated and completed all the documentation required for the delivery of the first scheme and are now advising on the next two development projects.
Real estate > Construction Tier 4
Judith Hopper, who is the key figure at Bevan Brittan LLP, ‘combines excellent judgment with sensible, commercial advice’. She is particularly well regarded for complex PFI disputes, acting for local authorities and NHS trusts. Former Shulmans LLP practice head Sarah Wilson joined in August 2021 from Knights plc - she handles both non-contentious matters and dispute resolution.Practice head(s):
Judith Hopper
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Fantastic, very well resourced and knowledgeable team, with excellent client management. An absolute pleasure to work with.’
‘Judith Hopper is outstanding – very thorough, knowledgeable and calm in the eye of the storm.’
‘Bevan Brittan has a highly regarded construction practice. They are well-established in this field and have an excellent reputation.’
‘Judith Hopper is fantastic; she combines excellent judgement with sensible, commercial advice. She achieves excellent results at a relatively modest price.’
‘There is a real desire at partner level within Bevan Brittan to provide fee value for their clients. Real attention is paid to doing things in the best order with appropriate timings of activities to maximise the impact for the client but to also safeguard fee spend.’
‘Judith Hopper genuinely cares about every client and makes it her mission to understand where the client needs to get to and any sensitivities that should be dealt with carefully. Any point raised will be listened to and dealt with compassionately.’
Real estate > Construction: non-contentious Tier 5
Bevan Brittan LLP's construction team acts on a number of high-value infrastructure and engineering matters, including housing, energy and commercial projects. It is particularly well known for its work with public sector funders, acting for a number of local councils and NHS trusts. Andrew Tobin leads the team, offering solid expertise on matters in the education sector.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Tobin
Testimonials
‘Excellent engagement and availability. A good mixture of partners and associates and a proactive approach to delivering the client’s requirements.’
‘Andrew Tobin is very pragmatic, easy to work with and listens to and understands the client’s needs.’
‘Good knowledge and skills in public sector contracts and construction.’
Key clients
Department for Education
Barts Health NHS Trust
City of London
London Borough of Hackney
Canal and River Trust
Peabody Trust
University of Oxford
Places for People
Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Elekta Limited
Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Work highlights
- Advising the City of London on the £330m redevelopment of Smithfield Market as the new Museum of London.
- Advising Barts Health NHS Trust on the construction of the new Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone, East London.
- Advising the Department for Education on the programme for the construction of over 25 new free school projects across the country.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 5
Bevan Brittan LLP’s real estate disputes team is increasingly active in the private sector, though its foremost expertise lies in the public sector where it represents health, local government and social housing entities on a range of disputes, most notably those relating to developments and city centre regenerations. Mark Robertson, who leads the local offering has a proven track record in High Court disputes.
Practice head(s):
Mark Robertson
Testimonials
‘Bevan Brittan proved to be very attentive and understanding or our needs. The case involved dealing with a difficult trust though they helped us navigate through this to ensure that the trial judge saw that we had been fair and equitable to the trust which, I believe, ultimately helped us win our case.’
‘This team has consistently demonstrated a very smooth and joined up approach to our work, including instances where input has been required from other individuals and team in various of the firm’s locations. There is never any dropping of the ball and they are completely reliable.’
‘Mark Robertson has time and time again provided very solid and robust advice often with very little forewarning. He always makes himself available and is a really good sounding-board when it comes to deciding how to take a matter forward. He is very pragmatic and I feel that he understands my organisation’s priorities and values very well.’
‘The team really do go above and beyond, in really thinking through the problems at hand and ultimately how to reach the best outcome.’
Key clients
Rentokil Initial Plc
University of Oxford
London Borough of Hounslow
Intel Corporation (UK) Limited
Barts Health NHS Trust
Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust
Canal & River Trust
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Property Services Limited
Royal Borough of Greenwich
Sanctuary Group
Places for People Group
Hertfordshire County Council
West London NHS Trust
Hertfordshire County Council
RBH Properties
East Devon District Council
East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust
London Borough of Redbridge
Buckinghamshire County Council
The Guinness Partnership
Wildstone
Johnson Matthey plc
Work highlights
- Acted for the London Borough of Hounslow on an important piece of High Court litigation relating to a rowing club facility on the River Thames in West London.
- Acted for Hertfordshire County Council in a dispute relating to the lowering of the water level at Aldenham Reservoir in Hertfordshire by the owner of the reservoir, resulting in use of the reservoir by the local sailing club not being possible.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Tier 5
Bevan Brittan LLP's corporate and commercial practice group is experienced across M&A, complex restructurings and disposals. Jointly overseen by Chris Harper and transactional lawyer Christian Hunt, formerly of Langleys Solicitors LLP, the team act for a mixed base of public and private sector clients, SMEs and large corporates. Sarah Greenhalgh is the key name for corporate governance work for housing associations and was elevated to the partnership in 2020.
Practice head(s):
Chris Harper; Christian Hunt
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
IDC Limited
First Corporate Law Services
Veezu Holdings
Cardio Solutions
Sirran Engineering Services
Commerce Business Systems
Red Arrow Electrical Distribution
Concept Plastic Packaging
Compass Business Finance
Ardent (Group)
Canal & River Trust
Places for People
Peabody Trust
Wirral Borough Council
Commercial Services Kent Limited
Dowlis Global
Work highlights
- Advised Cardio Solutions (UK) on its sale to Healthcare 21 Group.
- Advised Veezu Holdings on its acquisition of Leeds based private hire business, Premier Cars.
- Advising Peabody Trust on its joint venture with Lendlease to work on the £8bn development at Thamesmead Waterfront.
Employment > Employment: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 5
Bevan Brittan LLP’s employment, pensions and immigration team has strengthened its pensions group in Leeds with the addition of Nigel Bolton, who joined the firm from Freeths LLP, and will oversee the group with Philip Woolham. Senior associate Tim Gooder acts for clients in the Employment Tribunal in discrimination litigation and whistleblowing claims. The team also handles large-scale and complex advisory work for clients in the public sector, including local authorities and NHS Trusts.
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust
Surrey & Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Veezu Holdings Limited
Employment > Employers Tier 6
Bevan Brittan LLP is a go-to name in the employment market for health and social care organisations, including the NHS and third sector. Among the work it receives are internal investigations, recruitment, retention and engagement processes, as well as High Court and Employment Tribunal litigation. The two crucial names, Alastair Currie and Jodie Sinclair, also on occasion assist clients in the education, housing and private sectors.
Practice head(s):
Jodie Sinclair
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Personable service. Jodie Sinclair in particular has always been responsive and supportive.’
‘Offers pragmatic, reliable advice. An excellent employment team.’
‘Jodie Sinclair and Alastair Currie are both extremely credible, highly regarded and respected.’
‘BB takes a partnership approach to their work – when we engaged them they made time to understand our needs and then proposed a preventative approach to dealing with our employee relations cases to benefit us as a client instead of them benefiting by receiving the highest amount of money for the work they do.’
‘Alastair is amazing – he is authentic, listens carefully, down to earth making him very approachable. He also gets it right and he is very responsive and very reliable. He is also very flexible , very knowledgeable and very patient.’
Key clients
Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust
St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Clece Care Services
West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust
Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
One Medical Group
KIMS Hospital
Leonard Cheshire Disability
North East London NHS Foundation Trust
BMI Healthcare
Dispute resolution > Professional discipline
Real estate > Construction
Fieldfisher LLP is active on a range of litigation and adjudications, placing particular emphasis on methods of settlement, and is also active on a range of PFI, infrastructure and energy from waste projects. The practice, which is led from London by Dan Preston, recently advised Morgan Sindall on its successful tender for the University of Birmingham's £1bn, 10-year capital estates framework. Lead Birmingham partner Helen Andrews recently left to join Bevan Brittan LLP.Practice head(s):
Dan Preston
Key clients
Avery Healthcare Group Limited
CALA Homes Limited
Cambridge Medipark Limited
Prologis (formerly Liberty Property Trust (UK) Limited)
Robert Bosch Limited
Morgan Sindall Construction & Infrastructure and Morgan Sindall plc
British Museum
The Royal College of Physicians
System Logistics SPA
Dominvs Group
Kennedy Wilson
West One Development Loans
VolkerWessels Group
Sir Robert McAlpine
AstraZeneca plc
Hammerson plc
Imperial College
Rocket Properties
M Group (including Morrisons)
SPIE
ENGIE
Interserve Construction
McDermott Marine Construction Limited
Contracta (UK)
Winch Energy
Bouygues UK
Costco
United Living
McLaren Construction
Stoke City Council
Work highlights
- Acted for VolkerFitzpatrick in defence of claims valued at £7m brought by Blackpool Borough Council arising from defects in a new tram stabling and maintenance depot in Blackpool. The team also acted downstream on the contribution and third party claims dealt with in the same set of proceedings.
- Acted as lead real estate and construction firm for $1bn industrials and logistics fund joint venture, associated reorganisation, and financing with Wells Fargo.
Public sector > Education
Yorkshire and the Humber > Public sector > Local government
Fielding one of the largest national team of lawyers, Bevan Brittan LLP is a top-tier firm for all aspects of local government work. The practice is particularly recognised for its strengths in governance and reorganisation, housing regeneration, IT projects, contract management and matters relating to climate change and environmental issues. Practice head David Hutton is an expert in commercialisation and strategic partnering, and is currently working with the Welsh Government on the £1.5bn Welsh Education Partnership. Other key figures include Judith Barnes and David Kitson (who lead on governance matters), employment partner Sarah Lamont and litigator Judith Hopper.
Practice head(s):
David Hutton
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Royal Borough of Greenwich
Welsh Government
Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Council
Local Government Association
London Borough of Haringey
Sunderland City Council
Northamptonshire County Council
London Borough of Brent
Thanet Council, Canterbury City Council, Dover District Council, Folkestone & Hythe Council, East Kent Homes
Allerdale Borough Council
South Lakeland District Council
Milton Keynes Council
City of London Corporation
Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman
Work highlights
- Advising Royal Borough of Greenwich Council on the Continuous Improvement Programme in addition to the £multimillion Housing delivery programme as well as supporting the Council on day to day matters including employment and governance.
- Advising London Borough of Brent on an £80m private placement that raised capital to be utilised by the Council for its capital programme, including advice on powers, governance and decision-making, together with EY Capital & Debt Advisory rather than borrowing from the Public Works Loan Board (PWLB).
- Advised Northamptonshire County Council on establishment of a children’s trust against a complex backdrop of government intervention on Finance and social care (DfE) with plans for Government to abolish the Council and create two new unitary Councils.
West Midlands > Public sector > Local government
With a large national team, Bevan Brittan LLP advises local authorities on various key matters, including real estate projects, governance issues, contract management work and employment litigation. David Hutton has a wealth of experience in PFI and PPP outsourcing models and procurement strategies, and Rebecca Pendlebury stands out for her role in numerous public sector development schemes, including mixed-use regeneration projects. Kirtpal Kaur Aujla is also a key member of the team, with a strong track record in handling collaboration and outsourcing arrangements on behalf of various local councils.Practice head(s):
David Hutton
Other key lawyers:
Rebecca Pendlebury; Kirtpal Kaur Aujla; Alex Lawrence
Key clients
Northamptonshire County Council
Birmingham City Council
Sixty Bricks Limited
London Borough of Waltham Forest
London Borough of Havering
Oxford City Council
Royal London Borough of Greenwich
Cardiff County Council
Leicestershire County Council
London Borough of Sutton
Work highlights
- Advising Birmingham City Council on its £500m new waste PPP project, in addition to the delivery of its future waste management strategy.
- Assisting Sandwell MBCs regional collaboration project with the establishment and maintenance of temporary mortuary facilities at Birmingham Airport as part of its response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Advising Birmingham City Council on the procurement of a development partner to deliver the Smithfield regeneration scheme.
Yorkshire and the Humber > Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire
Bevan Brittan LLP's corporate and commercial practice group is experienced across M&A, complex restructurings and disposals. Jointly overseen by Chris Harper and transactional lawyer Christian Hunt, formerly of Langleys Solicitors LLP, the team act for a mixed base of public and private sector clients, SMEs and large corporates. Sarah Greenhalgh is the key name for corporate governance work for housing associations and was elevated to the partnership in 2020.
Practice head(s):
Chris Harper; Christian Hunt
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
IDC Limited
First Corporate Law Services
Veezu Holdings
Cardio Solutions
Sirran Engineering Services
Commerce Business Systems
Red Arrow Electrical Distribution
Concept Plastic Packaging
Compass Business Finance
Ardent (Group)
Canal & River Trust
Places for People
Peabody Trust
Wirral Borough Council
Commercial Services Kent Limited
Dowlis Global
Work highlights
- Advised Cardio Solutions (UK) on its sale to Healthcare 21 Group.
- Advised Veezu Holdings on its acquisition of Leeds based private hire business, Premier Cars.
- Advising Peabody Trust on its joint venture with Lendlease to work on the £8bn development at Thamesmead Waterfront.
West Midlands > Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
Tim Hodgetts leads a stellar clinical risk team at Bevan Brittan LLP. Hodgetts acts for NHS Resolution and many NHS trusts and also represents numerous leading insurers on various medical malpractice issues. Joanne Easterbrook is another recognised name for her work on cases involving brain injury and novel mental health and human rights issues. In Birmingham Adrian Dagnall heads the Midlands clinical negligence team and is an NHS Resolution nominated partner. Dagnall is best known for his work on high-profile indexation, periodical payment and high-value quantum cases. Penelope Radcliffe is praised for her work on substantial cerebral palsy and neurological claims. Nicola Pegg has a particular focus on brain injury at birth claims and other catastrophic injury cases.
Practice head(s):
Tim Hodgetts
Other key lawyers:
Joanne Easterbrook; Adrian Dagnall; Penelope Radcliffe; Nicola Pegg; Simon Lindsay
Testimonials
‘The team is always really helpful, ensures that messages are passed on and calls returned promptly. The lawyers always listen and work carefully to ensure that all voices in a legal matter are heard, they are responsive and engaging.’
‘Simon Lindsay is a superb advocate, tackles difficult issues diplomatically and quickly helps to achieve early resolution. He is responsive and really easy to talk to about some of the more complex clinical issues that can arise‘.
‘The team is clearly focused on getting the best outcome for the client and has the knowledge and skills necessary to handle complex clinical negligence cases. The lawyers are responsive to our needs and we are confident that the team has the depth and breadth to manage our cases well.’
‘Adrian Dagnall is skilled and clever. He is calm and collected when these attributes are needed. I value his advice‘.
‘I am always highly impressed with Bevan Brittan and the work it assists us with. All members of the team that we liaise with are brilliant, easy to approach, talk through cases succinctly but thoroughly. I very much enjoy working with all the team members, in particular Penelope Radcliffe‘.
‘Joanne Easterbrook is our client care partner and very efficient at processing urgent requests for advice/representation and assigning an appropriate person from the team. Jo is always very professional, helpful and her training sessions with our clinicians are always very enthusiastically received‘.
Key clients
NHS Resolution
CNA Hardy
Allianz
Allied World Assurance Co.
Berkshire Hathaway
States of Jersey
Whttington Healthcare NHS Trust
University Hospitals Birmingham
The Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust
Taunton & Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
Bevan Brittan LLP > Firm Profile
Email: info@bevanbrittan.com
Website: http://www.bevanbrittan.com/
The firm: Bevan Brittan LLP is a full-service law firm with 85 partners, 317 lawyers and over 480 staff based in Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds and London. Bevan Brittan provides full service legal and regulatory advice to businesses across construction, energy & resource management, higher education and financial services, complementing the firm’s market leadership within housing, local government and health and social care.
Principal areas of work: As a UK Top 100 commercial law firm, Bevan Brittan provides a comprehensive legal and advisory service, including commercial contracting, corporate transactions, governance, property, commercial and clinical litigation, regulatory and employment law.
Health and social care: Bevan Brittan is one of the UK’s leading health and social care legal and regulatory advisors. The firm advises half of all NHS Trusts and over 300 independent health and social care providers and suppliers.
The firm has won the following HealthInvestor Awards:
• 2020 Legal Advisor of the Year (Transactional)
• 2019 Legal Advisor of the Year (Private)
• 2018 Legal Advisor of the Year (Public)
The firm continues to advise the major insurers and brokers on clinical and personal liability claims. The firm’s Independent Health & Social Care practice advises a breadth of clients including large health, social care and housing with extra care providers, digital start-ups, funders and suppliers. Clients include Barchester Healthcare, Acacia Care & The Huntercombe Group. Some recent matters include advising Barchester Healthcare and Grove Investments on the £160m purchase of 24 Brighterkind Care Homes.
Housing: Bevan Brittan is a leading advisor within Social Housing. The firm advises some of the largest Housing Associations in the country on the delivery of their housing development programmes and housing management services, such as Places for People, Sanctuary Housing and L&Q.
Bevan Brittan plays a significant role in advising public and private sector housing developers to meet the growing housing demand, advising on the Birmingham Smithfield regeneration project, Icknield Port Loop redevelopment scheme in Birmingham and the purchase of the former Dagenham Stamping Plant car works site at Dagenham Dock.
Central and local government and agencies: Bevan Brittan is a leading advisor within Central and Local Government, providing extensive commercial, governance, property and sensitive employment advice. The firm has advised on a number of urban regeneration schemes within England and is appointed to the CCS Wider Public Sector framework. They continue to advise authorities on all other major frameworks, including EM LawShare, NW Legal Consortium, WYLAW Surrey Legal Services, and the London Borough Legal Alliance.
Significant Areas of Growth: The firm also advises businesses across Construction, Energy & Resource Management, Financial Services, Estates Management and Higher Education. It has experienced substantial growth within these emerging markets, including an appointment to the major LUPC Universities Framework, becoming the sole legal advisor to NS&I, and being appointed to the Financial Conduct Authority legal panel.
Other offices: Birmingham, Leeds and London.
Clients: Royal Free London NHS Trust, Birmingham City Council, De Montfort University, Places for People, Canal & River Trust, NS&I Bank, Viridor, Financial Services Compensation Scheme and Dematic Group.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing Partner | Duncan Weir | ||
Senior Partner | Jodie Sinclair | ||
Commercial and Infrastructure | Jonathan Turner | ||
Clinical Risk | Tim Hodgetts | ||
Litigation, Advisory & Regulatory | Adam Kendall | ||
Property | Mark Calverley |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 85 Number of other UK fee-earners : 317Diversity/Community
Bevan Brittan is a responsible business; we act responsibly now and in the future. For many years we have played an active role in contributing to the communities that we work within and providing an environment where colleagues can have a successful and rewarding career whatever their background.
To us, being a responsible business is second nature; a core part of Bevan Brittan’s identity, running through our culture and reflected within the four pillars of our Responsible Business strategy including Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, Community Engagement, Environmental Sustainability and Wellbeing.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are proud of having an environment in which everyone feels comfortable being themselves regardless of their background; one that reflects the diverse society in which we operate.
As a firm, we actively value and promote equality, diversity and inclusion across our leadership, workforce, clients and partners. This is reflected in our recruitment and promotion processes. We strongly believe that learning from and incorporating a broad range of perspectives will help us achieve resilience and growth.
We have a strong and vibrant diversity programme that gives colleagues across the firm an opportunity to take part, led by our Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Committee and supported by our Ambassadors, who drive engagement in our strategy and raise awareness across the firm.
Bevan Brittan has a long tradition of building lasting relationships with its local communities. To us, Community Engagement means immersing ourselves within each region in which we work, understanding the local nuances that set each area apart and making a tangible difference to the lives of those who live within them.
Our colleagues care passionately about supporting their local communities and across all four of our regional offices, many are engaged in a range of local initiatives.
As well as voluntary work, we encourage colleagues to undertake pro bono legal work for local charities and not-for-profit organisations, and run mentoring schemes with local school and universities.
Student (The Lex 100 )
The Lex 100 Verdict
Bevan Brittan has offices in Bristol, Leeds, Birmingham and London. The ‘opportunity to work for public sector clients’ and to undertake ‘meaningful work’ were two of the reasons that motivated trainees to apply. Respondents were ‘particularly drawn in by the culture of the firm’ and got a sense that they would be ‘valued as individuals and not lost among a horde of other trainees’. Recruits at Bevan Brittan are given ‘a lot of responsibility’ and ‘have plenty of support, as well as a good rapport with supervisors and other senior colleagues’. The firm is praised for its inclusiveness. Ordinarily, seat options are location-dependent but one unexpected upside of being forced to work remotely due to the COVID-19 pandemic is that ‘seats across all offices have been made open to all trainees’. The downside of working from home is that ‘there aren’t as many opportunities to mix with colleagues outside of the department you’re currently working in’. Among the best moments were ‘drafting deeds of easement from scratch during my property seat and receiving good feedback’ and ‘attending court hearings for which I had played a big part in the preparation’. By contrast, ‘trying to organise a client meeting which was mutually agreeable for about 12 different people’ and ‘periods where I didn’t have much work’ proved a bit more frustrating. For high levels of responsibility on interesting matters in an ‘inclusive, approachable firm’, take a closer look at Bevan Brittan.- Employment > Employment: Bristol
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence; defendant
- Public sector > Health
- Public sector > Local government
- Real estate > Construction
- Real estate > Social housing
- Public sector > Healthcare
- Public sector > Local government
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
- Public sector > Health
- Public sector > Local government
- Real estate > Social housing
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy, project finance and PFI
- Real estate > Commercial property: Bristol
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Insurance > Clinical negligence: defendant
- Public sector > Administrative and public law
- Real estate > Social housing: finance
- Employment > Health and safety
- Employment > Immigration
- Public sector > Local government
Firm Rankings
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Bristol
- Real estate > Planning
- Private client > Court of protection
- Real estate > Social housing: local authorities and registered providers
- Employment > Pensions
- Projects, energy and natural resources (including PFI) > Infrastructure and energy
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