Freeths LLP > Nottingham, England > Firm Profile
Freeths LLP Offices

CUMBERLAND COURT
80 MOUNT STREET
NOTTINGHAM
NG1 6HH
England
Freeths LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1
Freeths LLP's corporate finance team is a local market leader, and works with clients ranging from owner-managed businesses to multinational companies on M&A, restructuring, private equity and commercial contract issues. John Heaphy leads the team in Nottingham; in 2020 Heaphy collaborated with the real estate team to assist EG Group Limited with its leasehold acquisition of 146 KFC outlets and one Pizza Hut restaurant. Karl Jansen became national managing partner in 2020.
Practice head(s):
John Heaphy
Other key lawyers:
Karl Jensen; Mallory Coxe
Testimonials
‘A team that genuinely listens to the client’s requirements and adapts their style and approach accordingly. However, they are not scared of giving an informed opinion on how to approach a certain issue – no matter how unpopular that might be.’
‘A deep understanding of the client and how they best operate.’
Key clients
Travis Perkins Plc
EG Group Limited
The shareholders of iBlocks Limited
Prime Print Group Limited
IFP Group
The shareholders of Nottingham Scientific Limited
BIMG Limited
BMI Healthcare
Work highlights
- Advised Euro Garages Limited on the acquisition of the entire issued share capital of Scotco (Central) Limited and Scotco (Northern) Limited.
- Advised on the sale of the entire issued share capital of iBlocks Limited to Tracsis Plc.
- Advised Prime Print Group Limited on the merger of Precision Printing Co. Limited, ProCo Group Limited, Prime Print Group Limited and Climb Creative Limited.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: elsewhere in the East Midlands Tier 1
Freeths LLP's Leicester team provides 'very good commercial advice', which spans a number of contentious mandates, including breach of directors duties claims, partnership disputes, commercial contract litigation and insurance coverage issues. Mukesh Patel, as well as leading the team, has extensive experience in the energy sector and has acted for suppliers in disputes following on-site accidents and claims relating to corporate transactions. The group also has expertise in contentious insolvency and property issues through Simon Baigent, while director Emma Anderson has experience in judicial review proceedings and procurement challenges. Managing associate Richard Fitzmaurice is also recommended; he has handled several High Court injunction applications.
Practice head(s):
Mukesh Patel
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Freeths gives very good commercial advice. It is realistic about risks faced in litigation but fights for its client.’
‘Mukesh Patel -managing partner Leicester. Nothing is too much effort for Mukesh. Even if I raise a query not in his area he ensures he retains interest and that the query is resolved to my satisfaction. Emma Anderson -partner, Leicester. Emma is a wonderful person. She works tirelessly in promoting equality for everyone and always goes above and beyond. She is extremely knowledgeable but also a wonderfully friendly caring person. She makes me feel like I am dealing with a friend not just a lawyer. Everyone at Freeths is similar…the Freeths mould makes wonderful people.’
‘A huge strength of Freeths is having the resources and status of a large law firm, whilst offering that personal approach of a smaller company.’
‘Our main contact at Freeths is Simon Baigent. I cannot sing his praises high enough based on the way he has handled our cases in the last 18 months. The first case assigned to Simon was the largest dispute we have been involved in so not the easiest of first cases. A lot of previous solicitors have always held meetings over the phone, even initial meetings. Simon made the time to come to our office and gain a full understanding of how our business operates prior to even discussing the dispute. I have found Simon extremely calm and diligent in nature and he always gives a rounded assessment of the situation before then explaining the options moving forward and his personal recommendation. His handling of our matters are always firm and very comprehensive, such that all issues under his guidance have resulted in a positive outcome for the company.’
‘The team provide an unparalleled level of personalised service combining a deep understanding of our business and expertise which is difficult to obtain elsewhere.’
‘Responsiveness and client awareness in particular from Mukesh Patel, Emma Anderson and Richard Fitzmaurice is second to none.’
‘A diverse and highly skilled team to professionally manage all aspects of business.’
Key clients
Flogas UK Britain Limited
Aldi Stores Limited
Fosse Healthcare Limited
Noble Foods Limited
Travis Perkins plc
Greenyard Fresh UK Limited
RC Tuxford Exports Limited
MPK Garages Limited
Fridays Limited
Employment Tier 1
Freeths LLP offers the full array of specialist employment law services to both national and international employers. The team offers bespoke advice, frequently acting on complex matters such as restructurings, enforcement of restrictive covenants and TUPE matters. The ‘very professional, fair and commercial’ Rena Magdani now heads the employment, pensions and immigration department nationally, taking over from Julian Middleton, who is now chair of the firm. The Nottingham office is headed by David Potter, a tribunal lawyer who ‘achieves excellent results’ and is experienced in acting for public clients and assisting corporate clients in senior exits.
Practice head(s):
Julian Middleton; Rena Magdani; David Potter
Testimonials
‘Freeths build a very strong working relationship with their clients and this ensures that their advice is relevant and appropriate. With regards to innovation, there have been plenty of developments over the last year – the introduction of a Freeths secondee into our team, the use of automated instruction forms and the use of AI to screen contracts.’
‘Julian Middleton has always been and continues to be a standout member of the Freeths team, dedicated to us as his client through exceptional levels of commitment and ownership.’
‘Rena Magdani is extremely trustworthy, and can be relied on at all times. Her knowledge, commercial pragmatism and attention to detail are very much recognised. She is in effect an extension to our HR team.’
‘David Potter has always been approachable, and has been able to assimilate the complexities of the law quickly and to adapt his advice as appropriate. His advice is solid and practical, underpinned by years of experience which he can draw and apply to different situations.’
‘They always provide a speedy response and have a very good understanding of our business, our culture and our industry. ’
‘Rena Magdani is very professional, fair and commercial with her approach. Rena enables me to think about a different approach whilst ensuring that we remain in line with our company policies, procedures and culture. Rena listens and brings her advice to situations with a solid understanding of the situation. I am always impressed at her ability to remember details of each case, even if we have not spoken for a few weeks’
‘Rena Magdani is a very dedicated partner with scrupulous attention to detail.’
‘David Potter has a wealth of experience, is highly responsive and achieves excellent results.’
Key clients
ALDI Stores Limited
DPD Group UK Limited
Sofidel Group
Staffline Recruitment Limited
National Express Limited
Center Parcs
Paul Smith Limited
ERIKS Industrial Services Limited
The Reflex Group Limited
Goodridge Limited
Preston Innovations Limited
Birmingham Metropolitan College
EH Smith (Builders Merchants) Limited
The British Horse Society
AP Racing Limited
JS Wright
The Alumasc Group plc
Envisage Group Limited
Mettler Toledo Limited
Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Limited
River Group Content Limited
Work highlights
- Advised longstanding client DPD Group UK Limited on a range of day-to-day HR issues and successfully defended a number of tribunal claims.
- Advised Carlsberg on its £780m deal with Marston’s plc to form a new joint venture beer company in the UK, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company.
- Successfully represented a client in a multi-claimant ‘employment status’ gig-economy claim.
Finance > Banking and finance Tier 1
Freeths LLP' banking team has notable strength across the board, and is particularly highly valued for its expertise in advising funders in the healthcare sector and acting for real estate funds and overseas banks. The Nottingham office fields national banking lead Chris Freeston; a specialist in project and real estate finance matters, Freeston frequently works with non-bank lenders on complex transactions. Many of the firm's bank clients work closely with John Heaphy, who advises on corporate lending and acquisition finance mandates. Katie Hillier is recommended for real estate investment and development finance issues.
Practice head(s):
Chris Freeston
Other key lawyers:
John Heaphy; Katie Hillier; Gary Richardson
Testimonials
‘Deep technical knowledge complimented by commercial instinct. Act with ease on multi-layer structured finance including senior, junior, mezz, pref equity, equity, deep discounted securities.’
‘Chris Freeston – the best all round solicitor in banking, deep technical understanding with instinctive commercial acumen.’
‘Professional, reliable and knowledgeable team. Proactive team and first class for professionalism and advice.’
‘Good relationships have been built between ourselves and Freeths. We know we can rely on their expertise.’
Key clients
Allied Irish Bank
Santander
Lloyds Banking Group (Including Lloyds Development Capital)
Clydesdale Bank / Yorkshire Bank
Alhi United Bank
Redwood Bank
Cambridge & Counties Bank
Frontier Development Capital
Icg Longbow
Chancerygate
Work highlights
- Advising Reflex Group Limited on a £47.5m ABL facility with ABN AMRO.
- Advising Redwood Bank Limited on over 50 transactions and preparing standard form finance documents.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant Tier 1
Freeths LLP has an impressive track record of handling all manner of high value, complex clinical negligence matters, such as birth injuries and complex life injuries. ‘Exceptional‘ Jane Williams heads the team from the Nottingham office and is particularly experienced in oncology and complex surgical injury cases while profound brain injuries specialist Karen Reynolds heads the Derby office. Jane Goulding is a ‘tenacious litigator who gets the best results‘ in cases relating to spinal injuries, among others, and fellow consultant Paul Balen handles a high volume of inquest work. Recently, the team has been working with NHS Resolution on piloting an early settlement scheme.Practice head(s):
Jane Williams
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The firm is exceptionally professional and I felt that from day one. I was introduced to the firm via word of mouth. From my first conversation with them I felt at ease and like someone was listening and taking me seriously. During lockdown they continued to maintain a high level of professionalism.’
‘The team has been extremely supportive, has recognised the issues we have faced and been very professional throughout the whole process. There has been a strong personal touch, but always with a team available to support in the background in case of need. Strong knowledge of the issues we may face and we were pre-warned of what may or may not happen throughout. A true collaborative approach where all parties we able to input.’
‘Excellent communication and real focus on the client in all the comings and goings of a case. The size of the firm has huge advantages and the breadth of skill has allowed for other colleagues from separate disciplines to be pulled in to support with ease and professionalism. Fluid, appropriate and cohesive ’
‘Karen Reynolds is focused, lovely to deal with, approachable and professional. She takes a real collegiate approach and one feels included in decision making.
‘Jane Williams is marvellous. Precise and an excellent communicator. Treated as an equal always, with a real focus on the person in the middle of it all. A pleasure to work with.’
‘Jane Williams is vastly experienced as a clinical negligence lawyer; she is loved by her clients and feared by her opponents. She has a track record of delivering in group litigation as well as individual cases.
‘Jane Goulding is a tenacious litigator who gets the best results for severely injured clients.’
‘The lawyers at Freeths are incredibly approachable compared to many other firms. They are also unfailingly competent. Jane Williams is exceptional. She epitomises skill and integrity, with a keen strategic eye on getting the best possible results for clients.’
Work highlights
- Acting for a large number of women regarding the use of pelvic mesh implants which have been used in the surgical repair of pelvic organ prolapse and to manage certain types of incontinence and which are known to cause crippling side effects on the basis that there was a lack of compliance with NICE guidelines and/or Montgomery informed consent.
- Continued investigation and pursuing of formal claims against NHS trusts regarding the use of electro-convulsive therapy to treat a range of psychiatric conditions.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1
The 'experienced team of specialist contentious trust and probate lawyers' at Freeths LLP focus on high-value, complex litigation. Practice head Mark Keeley is considered to be 'one of the leading private client litigators in the country' and is qualified as a mediator and frequently acts as a replacement trustee. The 'exceptional team' represents clients in claims under the Inheritance Act, will challenges, estoppel claims, devastavit actions, trusts of land cases and trustee removal applications as well as contested court of protection cases. Rachel Gaffney is noted for her 'wealth of experience'. Robert Hill has been promoted to director.
Practice head(s):
Mark Keeley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Mark Keeley is one of the leading private client litigators in the country.’
‘Freeths are renowned for having an established and experienced team of specialist contentious trust and probate lawyers. They have the resources of a large regional firm to call on and excellent connections in the industry sector. The team members are knowledgeable and approachable.’
‘Mark Keeley leads by example and combines his excellent technical legal knowledge with emotional intelligence and common sense. His skills as a mediator enable him to carry his clients and opponents alike towards a negotiated outcome in even the most fraught family disputes. Robert Hill and Rachel Gaffney also have a wealth of experience and inspire confidence.’
‘Freeths are one of the leading teams in the Midlands. They have real expertise and always sensible and pragmatic to deal with.’
‘The team is well led by Mark Keeley, who is extremely knowledgeable and experienced.’
‘The team lead by the superb Mark Keeley has breadth and depth in offering from the East Midlands. Mark is known for his willingness to accept appointments as Independent Administrator on tricky matters.’
‘Mark Keeley is a top lawyer and mediator. He brings in-depth knowledge of all things contentious trust and probate, with experience and an excellent dose of common sense. All this coupled with good humour and warmth of personality makes him a delight to work with.’
‘Mark Keeley is excellent – both as a lawyer and as a mediator. He is calm, measured and unflappable while possessing detailed knowledge of the practice area.’
Private client > Family Tier 1
Freeths LLP's Nottingham team deals with all aspects of family law with a focus on high net-worth clients and clients with family owned businesses. Rachel Oakes heads the team, ably supported by Judith Speed, who advises clients 'in a way which is objective and yet sensitive to the circumstances'. Speed specialises in the financial aspects of divorces and frequently advises on matters involving family owned property as well as trusts and pensions of significant value. Further focus areas of the team are Children Act applications, cohabitation agreements and disputes, and pre and post-nuptial agreements.
Practice head(s):
Rachael Oakes
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Judith Speed represented me on a family matter. She was excellent and supported me through the period. Judith is experienced, fair and measured, accurate in advice and paperwork and prompt.’
‘Judith Speed is very well regarded and one of the most senior family lawyers in the area. She is also a family arbitrator. She is known for fighting her client’s cases robustly.’
‘They demonstrate solid legal knowledge, are approachable and adopt a co-operative approach.’
‘Judith Speed adopts a sensible approach to negotiation and is solution focussed.’
‘Judith Speed is a partner who has a sure-footed ability to assess cases and advise lay clients in a way which is objective and yet sensitive to the circumstances in which those clients frequently find themselves.’
‘Freeths are known as one of the top financial remedy specialist firms in Nottingham. They are known for providing a quality service to their clients and undertake complex, high net value financial remedies work.’
‘Judith Speed is the stand out lawyer in their family team. Judith is approachable and knowledgeable and provides excellent legal advice to her clients.’
Public sector Tier 1
Freeths LLP's public sector team in Nottingham is recognised for its expertise in real estate work advising on major developments and property joint ventures. Headed by Nathan Holden and Stephen Pearson, the team further advises on matters relating to procurement projects and state aid and has recently being involved in matters concerning support for service providers who were facing difficulties due to COVID-19 lockdown measures. Pearson has niche specialisms in conduct investigations and related governance advice. The litigation team assists local authorities in property litigation matters as well as in judicial review proceedings.
Practice head(s):
Nathan Holden; Stephen Pearson
Other key lawyers:
Gillian Roberts
Key clients
Derwent Housing Reporting Group
Aspect Education Limited
Abbotsholme School Limited
Cardinal Newman College
Envance Limited
Governing Body of Wyvern Federation
Innovative Solutions For Education Limited
Midlands University Consortium Reporting
Repton School Trust
Swalcliffe Park School CIO
University College London
University of Sheffield
Werrington Primary School
Zaskin College Limited
Kaplan Reporting Group
Sheffield Industrial Museums Trust Ltd
Europa School UK
Jak (Leics) Limited
Sound Training for Reading Limited
Century-Tech Limited
Elevate Education (United Kingdom) Pty Ltd
St Bartholomews CofE Multi Academy Trust
Burford School Foundation
ASD Learning Limited
Kerem Schools
Training at work group Ltd
Lincoln Arts Trust Limited
African Cultural Exchange Limited
Nina & Pinta Consulting Services Ltd
Dragon School
Sir Roger Manwood’s School
The Business Continuity Institute Limited
Leicester College
Tutorful Limited
University College Oxford
White House Farm Day Nursery
International Schools Partnership Ltd
Westcliff High School for Boys Limited
365 Homecare Ltd
Oxford Trust (Science Oxford)
The Voluntary & Community Sector Learning
Game Academy Limited
Ketka Limited
Micro:bit Educational Foundation
Caja Limited
Christ’s College Finchley
Twin Training International Limited
Activate Learning
Newlands Girls’ School
Trinity College Reporting Group
University of Lincoln
Birmingham Metropolitan College
Dalmore Capital Reporting Group
Landau Forte Charitable Trust
Childbase Partnership Limited
Nottingham High School
St Aubyn’s (Woodford Green) School Trust
Pearson College Limited
University of Birmingham
Dartmoor Multi-academy Trust
University of Portsmouth
Oxford Brookes University
Chesterfield College
Higher Education Policy Institute
Virtual Alliance Ltd
Oxford University Press
Nanaksar Thath Isher Darbar Trust
School Explained Limited
Aura Newcastle Limited
The Milford Academy
British Education Suppliers Association
Axiom International Limited
New College Oxford
Swanbourne House School Trust Limited
Wadham Reporting Group
University Of Leeds
Derby College
Portland College
City of S O T Sixth Form College
Brunel University Enterprises Ltd
Imperial College London
Tutora Limited
Potteries Educational Trust
London Borough of Camden
London Borough of Newham
London Borough of Hackney
London Borough of Hillingdon
The Cornwall Council
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service
Middlesbrough Borough Council
Durham County Council
NEPO – The Council of the Borough of South Tyneside
Guildford Borough Council
Mole Valley District Council
Waverley Borough Council
Spelthorne Borough Council
Hart District Council
Kirklees Council
West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Leeds City Council
Wakefield Council
City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council
Leicestershire County Council
Surrey County Council
West Midlands Combined Authority
London Borough of Havering
Mercury Land Holdings Limited
Ipswich Borough Assets Limited
London Borough of Barking & Dagenham
Swindon Borough Council
Bath and North East Somerset Council
London Borough of Lambeth
Added Value Portal Limited (PAGABO)
Birmingham City Council
Staffs Moorlands DC
Place Partnership Limited (wholly owned LA company)
Acivico (Design, Construction and Facilities)
South Somerset District Council
Hanborough Parish Council
Gloucester City Council
The West Midlands Growth Company
Public Power Solutions Limited
Ipswich Borough Council
Woodstock Town Council
Northumberland County Council
Willington Parish Council
Broughton Astley Parish Council
East London Waste Authority
Lindfield Rural Parish Council
Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council
Derbyshire Building Control Partnership
London Borough of Tower Hamlets
Wakefield Metropolitan District Council
Castle Point Borough Council
Boston Borough Council
North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce
Maldon District Council
London Borough of Ealing
Enfield Council
South Cambridgeshire District Council
Nottingham City Council
Kettering Borough Council
Solihull MBC
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council
Rushcliffe Borough Council
Luton Borough Council
Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council
Newark & Sherwood District Council
Nottingham City Homes Limited
Peterborough City Council
Northamptonshire County Council
Bedford Borough Council
South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Authority
Charnwood Borough Council
Doncaster Children’s Trust
High Peak Borough Council
Gloucestershire County Council
Derbyshire Dales District Council
Rugby Borough Council
Chesterfield Borough Council
Kent County Council
Harborough District Council
Huntingdonshire District Council
Welwyn & Hatfield Borough Council
Northampton Borough Council
Telford and Wrekin Council
Daventry District Council
Lincoln City Council
Ashfield District Council
Dronfield Town Council
Transport for the North
Sheffield City Council
Hertfordshire County Council
Bassetlaw District Council
Old Bolsover Town Council
South Northamptonshire Council
Nottinghamshire Police Authority
Shropshire Council
Rushmoor Borough Council
Scape Group Ltd
Worcester City Council
North Hertfordshire District Council
Leicestershire County Council
The West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Boston Borough Council
North West Leicestershire District Council
Merton London Borough Council
Nottinghamshire Fire & Rescue Services
Blaby District Council
Central Bedfordshire Council
Derby Homes Ltd
Plymouth City Council
Fenland District Council
Oxford City Council
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Authority
Gedling Borough Council
Sutton London Borough Council
Arc Property Services Partnership Ltd
Babergh District Council
Uttlesford District Council
East Staffordshire Borough Council
Melton Borough Council
East Lindsey District Council
Bolsover District Council
Wellingborough Borough Council
Cheshire East Council
North East Derbyshire District Council
North Lincolnshire Council
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Nottinghamshire County Council – Pension
Wigan Council
Cumbria County Council
Halton Borough Council
Allerdale Borough Council
Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council
Warrington Borough Council
Blackpool Borough Council
Dorchester on Thames Parish Council
Darlington Borough Council
Oadby & Wigston Borough Council
Braintree District Council
NTU Reporting Group
University of Nottingham Reporting Group
Rita Ford Reporting Group
Massolit Online Education Limited
British International Studies Association
Review of Economic Studies Limited
UPP (Broadgate Park) Limited
East Sussex College
House of Fun Ltd
St Antony’s Catholic Primary School
Charlton Park Academy
Oakham School
The Trustees of Oakham School
University College of Estate Management
Critical Skills Reporting Group
NCHA Reporting Group
Longhurst Housing Reporting Group
Greensquare Reporting Group
INPP Reporting Group
Picfare Homes Limited
Metropolitan Housing Trust Reporting Group
Aspire Housing
BDW Trading Ltd, Miller Homes Ltd, Taylor
Crown Comm Svs Reporting Group
Cheltenham Borough Council
Midland Heart Ltd
Work highlights
- Advised South Somerset District Council on outsourcing management, operation and refurbishment of four leisure centres.
- Disposal of land for residential development as part of wider development of Phase 2 of the Beeston Town Centre for Broxtowe Borough Council.
- Conditional disposal on planning to Ilke Homes for modular housing development for Nottinghamshire County Council.
Real estate > Commercial property: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1
Freeths LLP's real estate practice spans site acquisitions, planning issues, portfolio management work and commercial and residential developments. The bulk of the team is based in Nottingham and includes a notable number of specialist partners: Jon Smart is a specialist in the care sector who also advises on outlet shopping development projects; Darren Williamson handles portfolio transfers; and practice head Guy Winfield focuses on developments. The group also has a Derby presence, primarily through Janet Rhodes, who acts as the office's managing partner. James Clamp departed in January 2021 to take up an in-house role, while residential development and social housing specialist Matthew Grocock joined gunnercooke LLP in late 2020.
Practice head(s):
Guy Winfield; Janet Rhodes
Other key lawyers:
Darren Williamson; Jon Smart; James Clamp
Testimonials
‘The team work extremely well together and collaborate effectively without the ‘project management’ that sometimes has to be deployed with other firms.’
‘The team at Freeths are very easy to work with and manage to translate sometimes very technical legal documents into quite simple easy to understand terms. This together with a drive to push deals forwards helps us meet our business objectives.’
‘The team at Freeths are easy to contact and make their clients feel important to them and their business.’
‘Great local presence and strong knowledge of our industry and their discipline (property). Personable and accessible team who always look to assist on all matters. Open culture which breeds confidence in their communication internally.’
‘This practice brings the dual benefits of feeling like a friendly family firm while still being a big professional operation. Best of both worlds. They go the extra mile and operate in an agile way to meet with their clients bespoke needs.’
Key clients
LNT
Waterfield Group
Carlsberg Breweries
Travis Perkins
EG Group
Harworth Group
Chancerygate
Maria Mallaband Care Group
BDW Trading
Redwood Bank
Tarmac
Peveril Homes
Deichmann Shoes
Keepmoat Homes Limited
Bellway Homes
EM Lawshare
Work highlights
- Advising Scotch Corner Designer Village in relation to the development of a designer outlet shopping centre.
- Advising Carlsberg on its £780m deal with Marston’s plc to form a new joint venture beer company in the UK, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC).
- Advised Euro Garages Limited on the £135m acquisition of the largest KFC franchise in the UK.
Real estate > Construction Tier 1
Freeths LLP's construction expertise extends beyond the local region, with the firm advising on numerous projects at a national and international level. Through its relationship with key client Tarmac, the team has advised on supply contracts relating to high-profile infrastructure projects including HS2 and the Thames Tideway Tunnel. As well as assisting suppliers, the team also works with leading businesses from a variety of sectors on the construction of business premises and headquarters. Group head Chris Holwell focuses on procurements, advising leading food retailers and airports as well as contractors, while Amy Morley and consultant Guy Berwick specialise in disputes.
Practice head(s):
Chris Holwell
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team has a very good mix of experience and expertise with a good balance of seniority. This produces a good value for money product.’
‘The lead partner on our account, Chris Holwell, is an absolute stand-out individual who has in-depth knowledge of our business and the construction industry generally. He is always available and always gives expert advice which we really appreciate.’
‘ They have become an integral part of the team and have become “one of the family”.’
‘Freeths Nottingham is a very professional practice that provides a very personable service. Their people provide great advice and are able to provide multiple solutions to our problems / issues to enable us to make informed decisions. Whatever our decisions, they back us 100%. They are not pushy and are very straight and concise with their advice so we know where we stand.’
Key clients
Aldi
Tarmac
Gleeds
Nottingham Trent University
Peveril Securities Limited/Sladen Estates Limited
Spotify
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
PfP-Igloo
London Luton Airport
Travis Perkins Plc
Work highlights
- Advised Tarmac on contracts relating to the supply of concrete for the HS2 high-speed rail project.
- Advising Aldi in relation to the contracts for the construction and fitting out of its largest ever distribution centre at Bardon in Leicestershire.
- Advising Spotify on the contracts to create its new UK headquarters within the Adelphi Building in London.
Real estate > Planning and environment Tier 1
Freeths LLP handles the complete spectrum of planning and environmental issues across its multiple East Midlands offices, and advises developers and housebuilders on the planning elements of residential, care and mixed-use developments, as well as representing clients in judicial review proceedings relating to nuisance and pollution allegations. From Leicester, the 'extremely knowledgeable and pragmatic' Emma Tattersdill, who is a specialist in waste regulation and contentious issues, leads the environmental team. The Nottingham office houses Paul Brailsford, who leads the team nationally having taken over from consultant Chris Waumsley.
Practice head(s):
Paul Brailsford; Emma Tattersdill
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Extremely good knowledge of environmental, waste and planning legislation.’
‘Emma Tattersdill’s knowledge of the environmental sector and the intricacies between land contamination through planning and waste legislation has been particularly useful. She is able to prepare written briefs that are clearly laid out and easy to understand for non-legal people.’
‘The team have offered excellent support to my business in the short time that I have been with them. Spot on for advice and collaboration.’
‘Paul Brailsford is a real star – I have worked with him many times over the years – he has in depth knowledge and is commercially astute and highly effective.’
‘They stand out as they provide a unique quality service, their advice has been invaluable to me during setting up my business.’
‘They are very pragmatic and respond to my needs excellently. They get to the point and deliver advice in a frank and straightforward way. They accept the challenge.’
‘Emma Tattersdill – extremely knowledgeable and pragmatic.’
‘The planning team is really effective and efficient. Always well organised and well prepared – with a real commercial focus.’
Key clients
Freshwater Group of Companies
Larkfleet Group
Hallam Land
Wilford Lane Developments
Carta Real Estate
Hallmark Care/Principle Care
Country Court Care
Flogas
Onesto
Commercial Development Projects
Cranswick PLC
Lindum Group
Dignity
Rula Developments
The Tarmac group of companies
The Travis Perkins group of companies
Carlsberg Breweries A/S
CL:AIRE
EM Lawshare
Work highlights
- Advising a start-up entering the waste recovery sector on the rules for exporting waste for recovery to countries outside of the European Union.
- Defending a logistics company against accusations of noise nuisance.
- Advised Wilford Lane Developments Limited on the planning aspects of the acquisition and £20m redevelopment of a former Sainsbury’s site at West Bridgford.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 1
Freeths LLP‘s contentious property offering stands out in the market, as the team regularly works with landowners and commercial tenants on the full spectrum of disputes. Practice head Paul Tomkins is able to ‘drill down to the crux of a matter‘ when representing administrator and property owner clients in disputes relating to lease renewals, dilapidations claims, service charge easements and covenants issues. Beth Jenkins is rapidly developing a reputation as a go-to name for urgent eviction issues; she recently assisted the University of Nottingham with obtaining an order of possession after its land was occupied by travellers.Practice head(s):
Paul Tomkins
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Beth Jenkins reviewed a substantial bundle of papers I sent, understood the issues I was concerned with and provided her initial advice very quickly. She had good knowledge and experience of property litigation and was very approachable. She dealt with the proceedings issued and then focused on a strategy to resolve the proceedings effectively. Her costs were entirely reasonable. Overall, Beth provided an excellent and good value service. I recommend her without hesitation.’
‘What makes working with the team great is they just keep it simple. Just a great litigation team at the end of the phone whenever needed with commercial, straight to the point advice, rather than a suite of options. The team are really personable and get genuinely engaged with the issue at hand. And as well as great litigators, we find the team to be great negotiators. They always strike a collaborative, cooperative style to pursue a commercial resolution.’
‘Paul Tomkins makes a visible effort to engage with our sector and his confidence with the market means his advice strikes the right tone.’
‘The experience I have had with Freeths’ Real estate – Property Litigation team has always been positive. Led by Paul Tomkins they work in a very good collaborative manner and are always responsive to their client needs. They have a knack of understanding and explaining complex issues to their client and always recognise the need for a good commercial outcome.’
‘Paul Tomkins is the main person I have worked with. He has a good rapport with his client base and is always responsive and understanding of his client’s needs. I admire his ability to address complex issues and drill down to the crux of a matter to enable the best commercial outcome to be achieved. Paul is honest in the advice he gives, tells you the truth, the facts and options available and does not simply tell you what you want to hear.’
‘I have always found the property conveyancing and litigation team extremely responsive, professional, approachable and they give advice in terms that you can always understand.’
Key clients
Chancerygate Asset Management and Development
Deichmann Shoes
Dreams
Euro Garages
Halfords Limited
Poundstretcher
Tarmac
Timpson
Travis Perkins Group including City Plumbing, Toolstation and Wickes
Well Pharmacy
Work highlights
- Advised Poundstretcher on all property litigation issues arising following its Company Voluntary Arrangement, which comprised claims with a value of £396m.
- Advising the Travis Perkins Group on the property litigation aspects of a project to separate Tile Giant Limited from the group so that it could be sold.
- Assisting University of Nottingham with obtaining an urgent order for possession to remover trespassers from the university’s land.
Real estate > Social housing Tier 1
Commended for its ability to 'put client interests first', Freeths LLP's practice stands out for the strength and diversity of its client base; the group acts for both registered providers and large developers on procurement work, shared ownership sales, partnership agreements and housing management issues. Following Matthew Grocock's departure to gunnercooke LLP in November 2020, the group is now led by director Sarah Rowe. Experienced in s106 schemes and land purchases, Rowe also works with registered providers on refinancing housing assets. Other key practitioners include managing associate Rachel Clarke, who assists with procurement issues.
Practice head(s):
Sarah Rowe
Other key lawyers:
Rachel Clarke; Claire Bennett; Patrick Adie
Testimonials
‘Freeths have a good understanding of our requirements and what is fair and reasonable. They are able to allocate productive time to tasks and assist us in driving deals forward.’
‘Freeths are easy to contact and liaise with – they get matters resolved and contracts agreed.’
‘Across the board Freeths are attentive, quick to respond and take a pragmatic stance in relation to all matters. Their advice is provided in plain English, they are easy to deal with and put their clients at the heart of what they do.’
Key clients
Nottingham Community Housing Association Limited
Torus62 Limited
Kirklees Council
Citizen Housing Group
Jigsaw Homes Group
Longhurst Group Limited
Ilke Homes Limited
United Living Limited
Midland Heart Limited
BDW Trading Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Torus62 Limited on the Right to Buy process for 100 properties.
- Advising Inside Land Group on the acquisition, promotion and sale of a large affordable-only residential development site at Aviation Lane, Burton-Upon-Trent.
- Advising Marylebone Asset Management on the acquisition of a large site with outline planning at Norwich Road, Dereham.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 1
The corporate team at Freeths LLP handles M&A and private equity transactions, as well as complex refinancing and restructuring matters. Located in Milton Keynes, the practice has expertise in the drinks, hospitality, leisure, software and healthcare sectors, covering a range of corporate finance and transactional work. Practice leader Jonathan Hambleton has considerable expertise in joint ventures, management buyouts and corporate restructuring. Both Gary Smith and Natalie Drought handle M&A and private equity transactions and commercial contracts. Director James Cowell deals with restructuring and refinancing matters.
Practice head(s):
Jonathan Hambleton
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
AFI Group
London Luton Airport
Carlsberg Breweries
Travis Perkins Plc
Konica Minolta
Wells & Co
Childbase Partnership
Corus Hotels Limited
Triad Group Plc
Avalon Aero Engineering Services Limited
Metro Logistics Group
Time and Space Studios Limited
Imaan Healthcare Ltd., Jardines Limited and Sharief Healthcare Limited
The Sports Office Limited
Prescript Limited
Gapuma Group
NEG Earth Lights Limited
LH2 Studios Limited
Origlass Limited
Fitton & Co Ltd.
Henfold Country Park Ltd.
Optimas Wealth Planners Limited
Innuscience Canada Inc
Work highlights
- Advised Carlsberg Breweries on its £780m deal with Marston’s plc to form a new joint venture beer company in the UK, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company.
- Advised Corus Hotels Limited and its various group companies on a refinance in excess of £100m with its existing funders, Bank of East Asia and United Overseas Bank.
- Advised Time and Space Studios Limited on its acquisition of a 50% interest in the Twickenham Studios from its current owners.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1
The corporate and commercial team at Freeths LLP operates as an integrated practice across 13 of the national firm's offices. The Oxford team is known for handling complex restructurings and disposals, of which corporate lead Leon Arnold, is heavily involved. The team also manages transactions with a cross-border element and has specialist expertise in a range of sectors including software, healthcare, transport and packaging. Head of commercial Rebecca Howlett is a specialist in the commercialisation of intellectual property. Other key figures are Malin Svanberg Larsson, and Tom Walker, who has developed a niche in agricultural businesses. Ben Filmer is a recommended associate focusing on the tech sector.
Practice head(s):
Leon Arnold; Rebecca Howlett
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
- Acted for Solidus Solutions in its acquisition of Heathpak Limited.
- Advised Chancerygate Limited on its strategic divestment of an 11-asset urban logistics portfolio to private equity firm Northwood Investors.
- Advised V.Group on its strategic partnership with Costamare relating to ship management and crewing across China, the Philippines and Greece.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant Tier 1
Freeths LLP's clinical negligence department has a heavyweight reputation in cases involving maximum severity injuries, including complex brain injury and cerebral palsy matters. Practice leader Carolyn Lowe is particularly noted for her expertise in complex and high-value obstetric cases involving still-birth and neonatal death. Catherine Bell, who is a director and solicitor advocate, is another key individual, as is managing associate Lynne Foster.
Practice head(s):
Carolyn Lowe
Other key lawyers:
Catherine Bell; Lynne Foster; Lucy Habgood
Testimonials
‘Catherine Bell particularly stands out for her judgment and acumen.’
‘They are a firm with a national presence in the clinical negligence market dealing with some of the highest value cases.’
‘I work solely for Catherine Bell. She has a track record of dealing with very highest value birth brain injury cases and is hugely knowledgeable and tenacious.’
‘Overall an excellent clinical negligence department. Give a sense of confidence and expertise to both their clients and the expert witnesses that they instruct. Case management is very well organized and competent.’
‘I work mostly with Carolyn Lowe, who is an excellent clinical negligence solicitor. She has a quiet confidence and competence and has outstanding case management skills. She has excellent judgement in managing difficult cases.’
‘The clinical negligence team at Freeths has real depth of experience, with a number of excellent partners. They are particularly approachable and flexible.’
‘Carolyn Lowe – has a real mastery of the medicine and an eye for the value in claims. Catherine Bell – is a rising star, doggedly determined and willing to take risks for clients.’
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 1
The Oxford-based professional negligence team at Freeths LLP is highly regarded for its advice relating to legal and financial professionals, as well as those working in property, technology, and IT. Notably, the team is experienced acting for both claimants and defendants on all relevant matters. Head of department Duncan Crine has a 'cool and wise head', and leads the team on high-profile claims, while Oxford managing partner Sarah Foster is known for her wide-ranging work on claims with a trust or probate background, and property litigation leader Clare Bellis 'goes the extra mile'.
Practice head(s):
Duncan Crine; Sarah Foster
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Greater depth of experience than might be expected in an office of this size.’
‘Duncan Crine is great for a complex professional negligence dispute, where many different interests need to be managed; a cool and wise head in what can be stressful and difficult cases.’
‘Clare Bellis has a great mix for property and professional negligence expertise and goes the extra mile.’
Work highlights
- Defended a company director in a complex, high value and long-running claim concerning a very successful national coffee chain.
- Acted for the claimants in a professional negligence claim against their former conveyancing solicitors to recover substantial losses incurred in a property purchase transaction.
- Provided specialist professional indemnity insurance policy advice to a firm of solicitors in relation to the operation of aggregation of claims for insurance purposes with total value exceeding £3m.
Private client > Agriculture and estates Tier 1
The agricultural team at Freeths LLP advises clients including private and commercial investors on the full range of relevant matters, such as agricultural tax, property, disputes and corporate issues. Notably, its expertise extends to acting for charities and trusts regarding nature reserves and environmental law. Practice head Iain Davis has expertise in the development of greenfield land; Sarah Duffy and Balvinder Jaj have a track record of work on acquisitions, disposals, and land development; while managing associate Laura Czapski specialises in transactional work for landed estates.Practice head(s):
Iain Davis
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable – they worked very well with us to provide the fullest advice on aspects of farming/estate structure/inheritance planning. Great to work with and couldn’t recommend highly enough.’
‘Iain Davis has worked with our family for many years on matters of farming and property. Over the years he has provided advice on many occasions and has been instrumental in the estate’s structure. The estate has recently been sold and Iain handled all matters throughout the process. He was completely unflappable throughout and every enquiry and problem that came along was handled with great efficiency and sensitivity to our family. He would always ensure that we understood everything fully along the way and he really was an incredibly large part of a successful sale. His advice has been invaluable – his is an opinion that you really want to listen to.’
‘I worked with Tom Walker and his team on a highly technical and complicated corporate and trust restructuring process. The experience that Tom and his team brought to the table allowed this to happen efficiently, extremely professionally and with the end goal achieved in a timely fashion. Advice throughout was exemplary, clear, concise and well balanced. Communications from him and team were superb across the board.’
‘I would thoroughly recommend Tom Walker who provided excellent advice and professional wisdom throughout an exceptionally stressful and complicated two years. Both him and his team were truely dedicated throughout the process. I would further like to recommend Balvinder Jaj, who went above and beyond numerous times throughout the process and without whom we might never have completed on time. He has an innate ability to get on with people and remain calm.’
‘Wide ranging, cost effective and efficient advice to the rural property sector.’
Key clients
Bluesquare Home Limited
Work highlights
- Acted in the conditional sale by a landed estate of 845 acres of greenfield land for development as a new strategic extension to a major conurbation for £189m.
- Acted in the sale of a Grade 1 listed country house in over 850 acres with 10 acres of formal gardens and 5 cottages.
- Acted for purchaser of two lots out of three in an off-market farm sale for over £4.5m, subject to Agricultural Holdings Act tenancy.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1
The Oxford-based team at Freeths LLP operates as part of a national practice, providing comprehensive coverage regarding contentious trusts and probate disputes to its clients, who include beneficiaries, executors, and trustees. It also advises on challenges to the validity of wills, family trusts, or claims for shares of estates. Practice leader Sarah Foster is an experienced and highly regarded litigator; she works with a team which includes Sally Goodger, who was promoted to director in October 2020. She deals with estate administration disputes, as well as acting on behalf of attorneys and court-appointed deputies.
Practice head(s):
Sarah Foster
Other key lawyers:
Private client > Family: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1
Freeths LLP's 'superior' family practice in Oxford advises on complex high-value financial cases, involving farming issues, businesses, trusts and pensions. Newly appointed Deputy District Judge, Rachael Oakes leads the team in Oxford and has particular expertise in dealing with high net worth situations involving international assets. Claire Colbert acts as a consultant, specialising in mediation to resolve financial matters for children arrangements following separation. Gemma Nicholls-Webber and Tom Burgess are also recommended; with the latter as part of the team developing a unique IVF/surrogacy specialism in the Oxford area. Joanne Thomas is 'excellent' and has an interest in property disputes arising under TOLATA between unmarried couples on separation.
Practice head(s):
Rachael Oakes
Other key lawyers:
Claire Colbert; Gemma Nicholls-Webber; Tom Burgess; Joanne Thomas; Heather Jarrold-Taylor
Testimonials
‘Joanne Thomas is an excellent lawyer. She stands out from her peers in other firms as she is very responsive and engaged. She had always thought everything through carefully before we spoke and when she sent me correspondence from the other side, she provided advice on suggested approaches. She listened to my concerns and always found a way forward I felt comfortable with. She is very thorough and her preparation is meticulous.’
‘I have used several legal firms in the last year and Freeths really stood out for their service, professionalism and how easy they made the process. All communication was prompt and clear, billing was very efficient, and I felt that I got really good value for money.’
‘Claire Colbert was brilliant in her capacity as a mediator. She was incredibly professional throughout, and very clear and consistent in what her role as mediator was. She was also very kind and compassionate, and made a horrible process much easier and less stressful.’
‘I used Freeths for mediation purposes. It was good value for money, highly professional and a simple experience. The extensive experience of the solicitor involved made for rapid progress. ’
‘Heather Jarrold-Taylor is an excellent solicitor. Throughout my case she was in constant communication and answered all my questions. She explained each step of the process, what to expect and the possible outcomes. I was consulted on all decisions before action was taken and was given options. Heather is very down-to-earth and was supportive during the court hearings, she made sure I understood what to expect. ’
‘A really efficient and hard-working team. Far superior to other regional firms. ’
‘Joanne Thomas is incredibly dedicated and is always willing to go above and beyond for her clients. Her cases are always meticulously prepared and clients know they are in safe hands.’
‘Rachael Oakes has a deserved reputation as a tough litigator and a fierce advocate for her clients. Claire Colbert is a stand-out individual, she has tremendous judgment, exceptional client skills and a fierce intellect. She is a pleasure to work for, with and against. ’
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1
The Oxford team at Freeths LLP handles the full range of private client matters. Rachael Oakes and Nigel Roots jointly head the practice; Roots specialises in managing and acting as a trustee of intergenerational wealth structures for private individuals, with a particular emphasis on complex trust reorganisation. Jane Maitland advises high net worth individuals, members of the aristocracy, company directors and farmers on estate planning whilst Sarah Foster deals with multi-party and cross-jurisdictional disputes. Lisa Mark-Bell and Daniel Boyle are also recommended, advising on landed estates and acting for facilities in creating lifetime trust arrangements respectively.
Practice head(s):
Nigel Roots; Rachael Oakes
Other key lawyers:
Jane Maitland; Lisa Mark-Bell; Sarah Foster; Daniel Boyle
Testimonials
‘Good collaboration between team members in the practice. Very strong in trusts and wills/probate. ’
‘Expertise, transparency, efficiency and communication. ’
‘A very personal and professional approach. Always available and trusting’
‘Daniel Boyle is an excellent professional providing the best advice in a very understanding and committed fashion.’
‘We found them very efficient, professional and understanding of our needs. They carried out the work very much to our satisfaction.’
‘Freeths have retained the old-fashioned virtues: they maintain good communication and transparency, particularly with respect to billing; and they are responsive to enquiries and professional in their dealings with clients. More than once, they went the extra mile to get a transaction over the line and always remained patient and courteous in their dealings with sometimes difficult clients.’
‘Nigel Roots is extremely experienced and knowledgeable in trust matters. He has a relaxed and easy style which I am sure inspires confidence in clients who can feel (rightly) that their affairs are being handled well.’
‘The team at Freeths went over and above our expectations and provided timely, effective and accurate answers. The service provided by the firm has been paramount in building a relationship between our two businesses and we envisage future referrals, where possible. During the pandemic, it was difficult to adapt at first, but the guidance provided by Freeths led to an almost seamless administration of an extremely complicated estate that spans three jurisdictions.’
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 1
Freeths LLP's practice in the South East is jointly led by Mark Brown and Clare Bellis, who are based in Milton Keynes and Oxford respectively. Brown has deep knowledge of the licensed leisure sector, which makes the firm a first port of call among national and regional pub owners, operators, brewers, nightclubs, and hotel owners. Also based in Milton Keynes is Adam Boyd, who was promoted to legal director in October 2020, and whose experience includes dilapidation cases, rent review arbitrations and commercial rent arrears matters. Bellis has over 25 years of property litigation experience, with particular expertise in agricultural disputes.
Practice head(s):
Mark Brown; Clare Bellis
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team is very commercial and knowledgeable.’
‘Adam Boyd is pragmatic with a good eye for detail. Always offers both excellent commercial and legal advice.’
‘Always available and helpful, with unique solutions to issues that we raise.’
‘The team handles a variety of work very well, from large development work to smaller matters.’
‘A good mix of expertise and experience in property disputes.’
‘Clare Bellis knows her stuff; very sensible and pragmatic, conscious of the right balance when it comes to costs; goes the extra mile.’
‘The firm’s property litigation practice is known for its combination of technical expertise and thoroughness.’
Key clients
Punch Taverns
Green King plc
Twickenham Studios London Limited
Far East Consortium International Limited
N3 Living Limited
TNT Express
London Luton Airport
M&A Knightsbridge Properties
Konica Minolta
Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Tarmac Group of Companies
Work highlights
- Acted for N3 Living Limited in a vendor-purchaser summons in the High Court, Chancery Division, to force the sale of a commercial property to N3 Living, who had a sub-sale of the property arranged.
- Acting for two private landowners in the successful termination of two separate AHA tenancies on Case B (redevelopment Grounds).
- Acted for a property investment company , the freehold owner of a valuable pub in Camden, in the contested forfeiture of the tenant’s lease. The matter went to a 3 day trial in Central London County Court days before lockdown in April 2020.
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1
Freeths LLP is 'able to advise on a wide range of sectors due to the breadth of knowledge within the team'. The practice, which is split between the Leeds and Sheffield offices, serves insolvency practitioners, large corporate stakeholders, banks, funders and individuals. Paul Dutton, who was the former head of corporate restructuring at Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP, joined in early 2021. Helen Bates, who is the other key figure in Leeds, undertakes contentious and non-contentious work. Sheffield-based partner Oliver Jackson is 'very good at identifying potential problems' in corporate restructurings. Managing associate Isobel Callaghan is recommended for her property insolvency expertise.
Practice head(s):
Oliver Jackson; Paul Dutton; Helen Bates
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A very friendly team who are always approachable and available to assist.’
‘Fantastic team from partner to trainee, everyone is knowledgeable and always happy to assist. They are able to advise on a wide range of sectors due to the breadth of knowledge within the team.’
‘Oliver Jackson is very good at identifying potential problems and deals with them before they cause any issues.’
‘The practice continues to grow, yet remains as responsive and attentive as a small practice. Despite the growing size, I am never made to feel as if I am being fobbed off to more junior members of staff. This provides reassurance that each matter is given due care/attention and that you are valued by the practice.’
‘The Sheffield team is led by Oliver Jackson. Oliver is both attentive and knowledgeable, but more importantly is able (and willing) advice from a commercial viewpoint. Something which is incredibly valuable to those in the restructuring sector. Many legal professionals are capable of providing a myriad of different options in any given situation, but few are prepared to recommend a definitive solution.’
‘Isobel Callahan continues to be a safe pair of hands and is particularly adept at dealing with complex investigative matters.’
Key clients
KPMG LLP
Alvarez & Marsal Europe LLP
BDO LLP
FRP Advisory Trading Limited
Begbies Traynor (Central) LLP
Leonard Curtis Recovery Limited
Begbies Traynor (SY) LLP
Quantuma Advisory Limited
Manolete Partners PLC
Henry Boot Construction Limited
Wilson Field Limited
The Springs Partnership Limited (trading as Graywoods)
Maxim IP Limited t/a Maxim Business Recovery & Insolvency
BHP Corporate Solutions LLP
Armstrong Watson LLP
Lewis Business Recovery and Insolvency
Auker Rhodes Accounting Limited
Work highlights
- Advised BDO LLP in relation to the appointment of the administrators of certain Deltic Group companies and the sale of the group’s business and assets. The Deltic Group was the UK’s largest nightclub and bar operator.
- Advised Sanguine Hospitality on the dismissal of a winding up petition presented against it by Downing LLP, a large investment management firm.
- Advised Henry Boot in relation to the options available to it as parent company of Starfish Commercial Limited.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Elsewhere in East Midlands Tier 2
Freeths LLP's corporate clients range from owner-manged businesses to large corporate and banks. As part of the firm's national network of offices, the Leicester group is often involved in cross-office transactions of significant size; in 2020, Keith Gilbert worked alongside partners from the Bristol, London and Nottingham offices on Carlsberg's £750m join venture with Marstons. Phil Baigent, who co-leads the team alongside Gilbert, is recommended for his work in the healthcare sector, where he advises care home operators, investors and funders.
Practice head(s):
Phil Baigent; Keith Gilbert
Testimonials
‘Freeths are a very strong regional corporate law practice with consistent quality across the corporate team.’
‘Keith Gilbert – a very friendly and decent guy. Knows his stuff with a good eye for detail. Will always do his best for you.’
‘Practical and pragmatic advice. Really approachable team who care.’
‘Phil Baigent is very calm and collected. Focuses on getting the deal done.’
‘The team is very client focused and also very pragmatic.’
‘Keith Gilbert. An outstanding lawyer who is flexible and a pleasure to work with. He explains difficult concepts clearly and will not ‘take points’ for the sake of it. He will always approach a task with the client’s interests to the fore.’
Key clients
Advance Healthcare UK Limited
Anchor Hanover Group
ASAR Holdings Limited
BMI Healthcare Limited
Cambridge & Counties Bank Limited
Carlsberg Breweries A/S
Carlsberg UK Limited
Clydesdale Bank plc
CML Limited
Countrywide Care Homes
Flogas Britain
Frankham Bros Group Limited
Harrison Castings Limited
Integrated Doorset Solutions Limited
James Convenience Retail Limited
Karsten UK
Kiddycare Limited
Lloyds Bank plc
Maria Mallaband Care Group Limited
MCR Systems Limited
Motor Parts Direct Limited
M P K Garages Limited
Naismiths Limited
OEM – Automatic Limited
Regen Holdings Limited/Whites Recycling Limited
Samworth Brothers
Sandstone Care Group
Santander UK plc
Sofidel UK Limited
Sprintquip Pty Ltd
Svenska Handelsbanken AB
Travis Perkins plc
Westward Energy Services Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Carlsberg on its £780m deal with Marston’s plc to form a new joint venture beer company in the UK, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company.
- Advised OEM-Automatic Limited on the acquisition of the issued share capital of Zoedale Ltd from the Guest family.
- Advising the shareholders of Advance Healthcare UK Ltd in relation to the sale of the entire issued share capital to City and Country Healthcare Group Limited.
Crime, fraud and licensing > Licensing Tier 2
In addition to a full host of licensing services, Freeths LLP offers advice on matters concerning related regulatory sectors, such as food safety and hygiene, trading standards and fire safety. Practice head Lisa Gilligan, who is commended for being 'exceptional' in representing clients in case management and in-person hearings, regularly acts as legal clerk to licensing committees as well as for a number of public sector bodies, giving her extensive experience with enforcing authorities and operators alike.
Practice head(s):
Lisa Gilligan
Testimonials
‘Very helpful with queries at anytime and always available on the phone.’
‘Lisa Gilligan has an outstanding grasp of the issues we face and always deals with them in a timely manner.’
‘The team are extremely professional, responsive and helpful. Their knowledge and level of ability has been an enormous help to us, especially during a transitional period.’
‘Lisa Gilligan is tremendously capable and helpful. She is very knowledgeable and always willing to make herself available to provide advice and guidance and has never been anything other than receptive, responsive, friendly and happy to help with any query. Lisa has always been exceptional when representing our organisation in case management hearings and in-person hearings, and in her preparatory work for hearings.’
‘More than most firms we’ve worked with, the team at Freeths are both extremely knowledgeable and at the same time very personable. They’re professional and friendly and take the time to talk through options and discuss opinions. They have also taken the time to properly understand our business and talk specifically about our needs which I find very refreshing.’
‘We work with Lisa Gilligan who is truly excellent. Lisa listens to the detail and gives extremely sound professional advice and guidance. She engages with staff at all levels in the business and externally is a fantastic representative to all manner of stakeholders. Lisa takes a global view of every situation and presents strategies based on a truly in-depth understanding of any problem we face.’
Key clients
Aldi Stores Limited
Cheshire Cat Pubs
Crepeaffaire
Butcombe Brewery
NEC
Laine Pub Company
Gangmasters Licensing & Abuse Authority
Paul Smith
Bricks and Fuel Limited
South Northamptonshire Council
Carlsberg
Work highlights
- Advised Aldi Stores Limited on licensing and regulatory matters, supporting an ambitious national expansion programme.
- Acted as legal advisor to the Licensing Sub-Committee of South Northamptonshire Council.
- Advised in relation to licensing matters for the NEC Group venues.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Nottingham and Derby Tier 2
Freeths LLP's practice is 'strong across the board' and acts in complex commercial disputes, financial issues and professional negligence claims. Contentious insolvency work is the group's primary field of specialism; Nottingham team head Graham Greenfield and managing associate Jade Flint are frequently instructed by accountants, insolvency practitioners and business advisers in member’s voluntary liquidation issues and ownership disputes. In the Derby office, Jonathan Jefferies, who has particular expertise in mineral disputes, is the name to note.
Practice head(s):
Graham Greenfield; Jonathan Jefferies
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The Commercial Litigation team based out of Nottingham is excellent, under the guidance and leadership of Graham Greenfield.’
‘Jade Flint is an exceptional lawyer and is extremely busy with a high level of new business, which evidences her ability to acquire new work and maintain her current client base through the quality of work she delivers. Jade provides sensible, commercially relevant advice to her clients and is not afraid to advise at a early stage and get stuck in. Jade has worked her way up to being just below partner level in a few short years. Graham Greenfield is the managing partner who provides an exceptional level of service and who oversees the busy team seamlessly. ’
‘Strong across the board, very fast to react and go the extra mile.’
‘Graham Greenfield: hugely experienced, tactically really astute, brilliant at getting the best outcomes and deals for his clients.’
‘Personal and bespoke service from the litigation team personnel.’
‘Graham Greenfield is an awesome individual who offers calm , reassuring, pragmatic advice in any situation. His wealth of experience is extremely impressive and he uses it to the full advantage, ensuring the client gets the best possible service. Graham is now a highly valued member of our wider leadership team.’
‘Outstanding leadership and service from Graham Greenfield, litigation partner.’
‘Jade Flint – Understands client’s needs well, can turn work around in short notice whilst remaining thorough, progresses cases well and is a good sounding board when assisting with problematic situations. always provides options. Graham Greenfield – extremely thorough, knowledgably, brings solutions to the table and very good people skills especially in potentially confrontational scenarios. can bring clients at ease very quickly.’
Key clients
FRP Advisory LLP
The Way Ahead Group Limited t/a See Tickets
Redwood Bank Limited
Central Bridging Loans Limited
Mazars LLP
CBA Business Services Limited
Skills Motor Coaches Limited
Reditum Capital
Chancerygate
Reflex Labels Limited
Chris Fountain Limited
Bio Dynamic (UK) Limited
Sytner Cars Limited/Sytner Group
Bridgewood Financial Solutions Limited
Work highlights
- Acted in a claim for indemnity under an insurance policy with respect of business interruption insurance losses arising out of Covid-19.
- Advised a sole practitioner on a defendant’s continued reluctance to provide copies of court documents.
- Acted in a dispute relating to a joint venture partnership created to identify, purchase, renovate and sell properties in London.
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2
Freeths LLP' offering spans contentious and non-contentious insolvency issues, and the team handles distressed M&A, asset disposals and restructuring mandates. Primarily operating from Leicester under the leadership of Simon Baigent, Graham Greenfield in Nottingham advises on both corporate and personal insolvencies. Litigator Charles Darby departed the firm in 2020.
Practice head(s):
Simon Baigent; Graham Greenfield
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 2
The private client team at Freeths LLP advises on all aspects of tax and estate planning, trust administration, probate and wills. 'Technically strong' Scott McKittrick heads the team which combines the expertise of further departments of the firm, such as estate administration, contentious probate, agricultural property, rural trust advice, corporate and private client tax advice, in order to service clients comprehensively and with a focus on asset protection using bespoke tax and estate planning schemes. The department has a niche specialism in the creation and administration of disabled person trusts.
Practice head(s):
Scott McKittrick
Other key lawyers:
Marie Cooper; Rahul Kotecha
Testimonials
‘Scott McKittrick is technically strong and delivers his law with a reassuring commercial approach.’
‘The strength of the business appears to rest in its people and the relationships they foster with their clients. It closely reflects the level of trust and rapport we aim for with our own client relationships.’
‘Marie Cooper was fantastic at helping understand what can be a complex and worrying issue.’
Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in the East Midlands Tier 2
Freeths LLP handles all types of commercial property work, and regularly assists with sales, purchases, financings and development issues in the logistics, manufacturing, retail and residential sectors. Simon Abbott, who leads the Leicester-based team alongside Sam Pancholi, is lauded for his work with property investment companies on the management of their portfolios. Harjit Saund advises both high-net-worth individuals and large corporates on landlord and tenant matters, while also being the relationship partner for key client, Tarmac.
Practice head(s):
Simon Abbott; Sam Pancholi
Other key lawyers:
Harjit Saund; Kishen Ravalia
Testimonials
‘Deep understanding of our business and flexibility.’
‘Harjit Saund stands out in particular for her ability to ‘get the job done’ with minimal input which stems from taking the time to fully and deeply understand the client and their requirements at the outset.’
‘Strengths are its solutions based approach which is refreshing with the ability to solve rather than entrench in long winded and expensive negotiations.’
‘Kishen Ravalia – calm and good at delivering solutions. The transaction that we worked on was immensely complex and Kishen grew in confidence through the process and laterally we did not have to involve the senior partner as Kishen had the points covered.’
‘Trusted, high-quality advice, calm, supportive and excellent value for money.’
Key clients
Cambridge & Counties Bank
Tarmac
Jelson Homes
Flogas Britain
Abbey Commercial Investments Group
Lloyds Bank Plc
Motor Parts Direct Limited
Corporate and commercial > M&A: smaller deals, up to £50m Tier 2
Freeths LLP's corporate client base ranges from individual entrepreneurs and owner-managed SMEs to publicly-listed household names from the retail, leisure, logistics and government contracting sectors. Practice head and aviation expert Tom Rowley leads on many of the firm's high-profile, cross-border transactions, while the dual-qualified (UK and US) Andrew Bretherton has recently handled deals for clients in the financial services and digital media sectors. Francis Dalton's broad M&A practice sees him regularly working on mandates with a strong international aspect, while Naomi Spring concentrates on low to mid-market transactions in the insurance and financial services industries.
Practice head(s):
Tom Rowley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very approachable. Big Firm service mentality/experiences but with mid-tier pricing. Well credentialed team able to draw upon extensive prior experience.’
‘Francis Dalton is an approachable and very pragmatic lawyer. He is able to see beyond the legal framework and provides strong commercial advice.’
‘Tom Rowley employs a methodical approach: effective and efficient. Very good at dealing with the other side.’
‘Clear, concise, and good value for money.’
Key clients
Rural Insurance Group
Ascot Lloyd
Proteome Sciences plc (AIM)
Escher Group Limited
BGF
Bolt UK Services Limited
Hexagon Intergraph AB
Northbridge Industrial Services Plc
Raycliff Capital
Patron Capital
Autins Group Plc
Quixant Plc
ECSC Group Plc
finnCap Ltd
N+1 Singer Advisory LLP
Work highlights
- Advised V.Group on the sale of its Marlins English language business and strategic partnership with Ocean Technologies Group.
Dispute resolution > Mediators Tier 2
Charles Powell – Freeths LLP Freeths LLP's Nottingham-based Charles Powell, who is also at IPOS Mediation, is 'a mediator for miracles - he just has a knack for settling cases'. With over 20 years' mediation experience, Powell has conducted over 500 commercial mediations; and specialises in disputes concerning commercial issues, partnerships, professional negligence, property, banking, asset finance, and insolvency.
Mark Keeley – Freeths LLPFreeths LLP's Nottingham-based Mark Keeley has conducted over 300 mediations since qualification in 2010, including 46 mediations in 2020. Keeley specialises in contentious trust and probate disputes, as well as professional negligence claims.
Paul Balen – Freeths LLP Freeths LLP's Nottingham-based consultant Paul Balen , who qualified as a mediator in 2004, is regularly sought out for clinical negligence and personal injury-related mediations. In 2020, Balen conducted approximately 40 mediations. He also has notable expertise in product liability matters.
Public sector > Local government Tier 2
The local government team at Freeths LLP provides strategic advice to councils on regulatory matters, property issues, and city centre redevelopments. Practice head Nathan Holden is a key resource for property projects while Stephen Pearson deals primarily with outsourcing arrangements. Ian Rowson and Clive Pearce focus on development and urban regeneration projects. Planning partner Robert Bruce deals with compulsory purchase and compensation matters, while managing associate Jennifer Roe advises on planning appeals. The firm expanded its practice with the addition of partners Duncan Tringham and Dan Cuthbert in 2020 from Foot Anstey and Burges Salmon LLP, respectively.
Practice head(s):
Nathan Holden
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The firm seems to be growing in strength and position in the marketplace. Lawyers have always been engaged with us from the outset, proactive and responsive. Freeths is able to progress projects very effectively and to an exceptional standard. This remains the case when dealing with demanding and time-critical, complex projects and on major procurements.‘
‘Freeths team is highly skilled, responsive and client focused. We have used Freeths for many years so our recent experience of others is limited but we did use a few other major firms last year when in joint ventures. Without hesitation I would regard Freeths as providing a better service, particularly on responsiveness and client management.’
‘Ian Rowson is responsive, experienced, considered and excellent at managing relationships and challenging situations.’
‘Nathan Holden is excellent. Responsive and knowledgeable.’
Key clients
Royal Borough of Greenwich
Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council
Derby City Council
Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council
Cherwell District Council
Buckinghamshire Council
Milton Keynes Council
Milton Keynes Development Partnership
East Northamptonshire District Council
Nottinghamshire County Council
Cambridge City Council
Mansfield District Council
Walsall Council
Leicester City Council
Corby Borough Council
Broxtowe Borough Council
London Borough of Enfield
Enfield Council
South Cambridgeshire District Council
Nottingham City Council
Kettering Borough Council
Solihull MBC
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council
Rushcliffe Borough Council
Luton Borough Council
Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council
Newark & Sherwood District Council
Nottingham City Homes Limited
Peterborough City Council
Northamptonshire County Council
Bedford Borough Council
South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Authority
Charnwood Borough Council
Doncaster Children’s Trust
High Peak Borough Council
Gloucestershire County Council
Derbyshire Dales District Council
Rugby Borough Council
Chesterfield Borough Council
Kent County Council
Harborough District Council
Huntingdonshire District Council
Welwyn & Hatfield Borough Council
Northampton Borough Council
Telford and Wrekin Council
Daventry District Council
Lincoln City Council
Work highlights
- Represented the London Borough of Havering in relation to the forward purchase/forward funding of an important residential development in Romford for £28 million.
- Provided senior contract/procurement lawyer support to manage and supervise the in-house team at Royal London Borough of Greenwich and to deal with a wide range of commercial contract, procurement, and local authority governance advice.
- Advised the London Borough of Enfield on the rollout of fast fibre network infrastructure across the borough to provide connectivity to its portfolio of properties which include more than 10,000 tenanted homes.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 2
National firm Freeths LLP advises corporate clients, high-net-worth individuals and clients across sectors including drinks, hospitality and leisure on a range of disputes. The Milton Keynes team handles contractual disputes, IP, shareholder conflicts, as well as defamation and harassment claims. Milton Keynes practice head Simon Hobbs specialises in disputes involving allegations of fraud and professional negligence, alongside insolvency and IP litigation. Tom Holden advises clients in relation to insolvency issues, commercial contract, and director and shareholder disputes.
Practice head(s):
Simon Hobbs
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Sound, pragmatic, commercial advice. Great understanding of the client’s business and what makes them tick.’
‘Simon Hobbs manages cases exceptionally well. He is able to see the bigger picture and understands/appreciates what matters to the client. Provides sound legal advice with sensible and effective strategy planning.’
‘Tom Holden is thorough and detailed.’
Key clients
London Luton Airport Ltd.
TNT / Fedex
Hologic Group
Sealed Air Ltd.
Triad PLC
Dawsongroup PLC
ID Medical Ltd.
Diversey Ltd.
Work highlights
- Advised Triad Group PLC and its directors on breach of contract, harassment and defamation claims against its former CEO.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 2
Freeths LLP advises corporate clients, landed estates, institutions and individuals from a range of industry sectors, including technology, construction, retail and logistics. Oxford dispute management head Duncan Crine has extensive experience and is supported by a large team of lawyers in the region who cover a range of commercial disputes, including fraud, M&A, and shareholder conflicts. The team is also experienced in IT and data protection issues, with Will Richmond-Coggan being a specialist in this area.
Practice head(s):
Duncan Crine
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Good mixture of breadth and depth of expertise and experience.’
‘Duncan Crine is a very cool and wise head, which is particularly valuable in a complex and highly charged dispute. He has a good breadth of practice which gives him wide experience.’
Key clients
London Luton Airport Ltd
Masternaut Group
GEFCO (UK)
Work highlights
- Represented a multinational technology group in an international arbitration against a global integrated security company.
- Acting for a large multinational logistics operator in the recovery of thousands of bespoke shipping pallets removed from their supply chain and sold on the black market.
- Representing a national motor retail group in a successful claim for Business Interruption Insurance cover for losses caused by Covid-19 closures.
Real estate > Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 2
Freeths LLP is known for its expertise in the hospitality and leisure sectors, and also advises regional airports, banks and healthcare companies on high-value commercial property matters. Based in Milton Keynes, the team handles construction and development work, property litigation and environmental matters. Practice co-leader Valerie Warman acts on high-value transactions for corporate occupiers and landlords, while fellow co-leader Leo Skinner handles property portfolio acquisitions and disposals and general estate management work. Other key members of the team include Shashi Chambers and consultant David Danskin. Lucy Bradban joined from EMW Law LLP in April 2020.
Practice head(s):
Valerie Warman; Leo Skinner
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Valerie Warman – I have always found her to be very knowledgeable and highly professional. She is highly professional and knows her subject in great detail. She is able to get over difficult concepts in an accessible and understandable way which makes reporting back into the business much easier.’
Key clients
FedEx Group of Companies
London Luton Airport
Burger King
Twickenham Studios
APCOA Parking (UK) Ltd.
Milton Keynes Council
Milton Keynes Parks Trust
Advanced Software
Work highlights
- Advised Time and Space Studios Limited on its acquisition of a 50% interest in the famous Twickenham Studios.
- Advised Milton Keynes Council and Milton Keynes Development Partnership on the sale of the Council’s former offices at Saxon Court (and MKDP’s adjoining landholding of a substantial area of open space) to First Base (funded by Patron Capital).
- Acted on 30-35 site acquisitions for Burger King.
Real estate > Commercial property: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 2
Freeths LLP provides comprehensive real estate support including advice on construction and development projects, planning issues, environmental and tax work and property litigation. The practice is led by Patrick Whetter whose specialisms include the life sciences, medtech, healthcare, publishing and education sectors. Philip Gray joined the group in April 2020, strengthening the team's offering in non-contentious commercial property work, with particular emphasis on the property elements of corporate mergers, acquisitions and disposals. Desh Patel and managing associate Laura Brown are also recommended; Brown handles occupier and developer work for corporate, offshore and charity clients.
Practice head(s):
Patrick Whetter
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Fantastic approach, always responds in a timely manner, able to point us in the right direction if help in other areas are required. Always so helpful.’
‘We have been with Freeths for some years and have found them to be quick to grasp the latent points of the negotiations as required.’
‘The team are able to provide a complete service even if that means bringing in colleagues from other offices. The team are very aware of their skill set and where within the overall firm they can source additional skill sets as required.’
‘Laura Brown is an excellent solicitor but has an extremely sensible commercial approach. She brings a breath of fresh air to every project.’
‘I have worked with a lot of lawyers over nearly 30 years and Philip Gray is amongst the very best.’
‘Patrick Whetter – so approachable even when contacted out of the blue. Extremely helpful and ensures a timely response to whatever is required.’
Key clients
Micheldever Tyre Services Limited
Oxford University Press
Original BTC
Lloyds Bank Plc
Perspectum Diagnostics
Resmed UK Ltd
Pembroke College, Oxford
Kitchen Architecture
Vitra UK
Annie Sloan
Work highlights
- Advised Micheldever Tyre Services Limited on the property aspects of asset and share acquisitions of four businesses to add to its circa 200 site property UK portfolio.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Birmingham Tier 2
Freeths LLP has dedicated departments for both commercial and corporate matters; Lee Clifford, a private equity specialist, oversees the former while IT and data expert, Mark Neale, fronts the latter. The corporate team handles a varied caseload which consists of M&A, MBO and MBI, private equity and transactional due diligence matters in addition to corporate restructurings and reorganisations. As for Neale’s practice, his team is proficient in the full array of commercial contract affairs, particularly those pertaining to the retail, transport and logistics, construction, manufacturing, drinks, hospitality and leisure industries. Kirstin Roberts is ‘an absolute stand-out’, supplying the team with a first-rate knowledge of the waste and sustainability sector.Practice head(s):
Lee Clifford; Mark Neale
Other key lawyers:
Nigel Gardner; Kirstin Roberts
Testimonials
‘Freeths has a strong team with access to a broad range of skills. In the last year I have dealt with many different members of the team on a significant number of matters, and the quality of work and customer service has been consistently high. Billing has been excellent, well tracked and well presented.’
‘The individuals I deal with stand out because of the quality of their work and their levels of responsiveness. I have worked with many firms but the level of attention is really excellent.
‘Kirstin Roberts takes the lead on our account and she has been absolutely stand out. Always available when I need her, quick to respond, strong communicator, highly knowledgeable on a broad range of subjects.’
‘A very commercial law form that provides clear, pragmatic advice and does not get caught up on legal debates for the sake of it’
‘Excellent service with great knowledge.’
‘They have an exceptional ability to deliver results in a sensible manner, without delay and bespoke.’
‘Freeths team are very approachable, helpful and engaging. They take time to understand your needs and then act on your behalf as if it were theirs. We haven’t been using Freeths that long. They were introduced with others when we were going through a sale/MBO. We opted for Freeths for their skill, professionalism and personality. We have taken advice on on HR and commercial matters, which his been delivered swiftly and articulately. In terms of innovation, they are very collaborative and proactive.’
‘The team worked well and supported each other well when needed, if someone was not immediately available another team member made contact to keep us informed or answer questions, great teamwork.’
Key clients
Natgraph Limited
TerraQuest
Trustronic
Icosa Water
Innovative Safety Systems
Seqirus Vaccines
Duranta Energy
Enovert
HBM Global Group
Flamingo Horticulture
Bolt UK
Hydrock Group
Stone Technologies
Intraforensics
Lloyds Development Capital
The Alumasc Group Plc
Finance Birmingham Limited
Wurth Group
Funeral Partners Limited
BGF Investments LP
ALDI Stores
Carlsberg
Travis Perkins including: Wickes
Toolstation
Benchmarx
Tile Giant
Tarmac
Barratt Developments
Eurocell Group
Eddie Stobart
William Hill
Inchcape
H W Martin
FCC Environment
Arkphire UK Limited
NCR Limited
Atlas Hotels
Principal Hotel Company
Synergy Logistics
Bio Dynamics
Jack Moody Plc
Johnson Aggregates
Severn Waste Services
Work highlights
- Advised Carlsberg on its £780m deal with Marston’s plc to form a new joint venture beer company in the UK, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC).
- Supported Arkphire (now part of Presidio) as it entered into a new seven-year managed services contract with the UK’s largest independent charitable hospital, The London Clinic whose goal is to be at the forefront of advancing healthcare.
- Acted for Travis Perkins on the sale of their retail tile chain, Tile Giant Limited, to Coverings Limited.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: elsewhere in the West Midlands Tier 2
Freeths LLP has handled numerous disputes involving employment law arising from the pandemic, including termination, shareholder and acquisition claims. Its wider offering encompasses mining and minerals disputes, probate and trust litigation and contentious real estate matters. The 'commercially astute' Stephen Hadley has notable expertise in shareholder disputes and warranty claims, while associate Zalena Vandrewala is known for handling various disputes in the County Court and High Court, with an emphasis on property litigation and contentious probate mandates.
Practice head(s):
Stephen Hadley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Freeths and a specific few members of their team are truly leading in service, commitment and ability.’
‘Stephen Hadley has a very high level of knowledge, experience and the ability to provide the best advice, ensuring a greater level of success than is generally found elsewhere.’
Key clients
Moran Logistics Limited
Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services UK Limited
Baker Tilly
Moore Stephens
EMC Lawshare Group of Local Authorities
Travis Perkins PLC
Tarmac PLC
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2
Freeths LLP has a well-established reputation for contentious insolvency and asset recovery work led by Mike Gilmour, who has many year of experience handling litigation relating to corporate failures and bankruptcy. The 'technically excellent, commercially savvy and cost-effective' practice received a significant boost in August 2020 with the arrival of John Jeffreys, formerly of DLA Piper; he is tasked with overseeing the firm’s expansion into the non-contentious front, leveraging his renowned expertise in transactional, restructuring, accelerated M&A, formal insolvency procedure and distressed property affairs.
Practice head(s):
John Jeffreys; Mike Gilmour
Testimonials
‘Strong East and West Midlands-based legal team.’
‘John Jeffreys is a strong local restructuring partner.’
‘John Jeffreys is an outstanding partner who can balance legal and technical guidance with commercial advice.’
‘Strong restructuring experience and credentials.’
‘Technically excellent, commercially savvy and cost-effective – a great combination.’
‘Strong practice in the mid-market with a good selection of corporate clients.’
‘John Jeffreys is a very seasoned practitioner and is well known in the local Midlands market – I am very comfortable recommending him.’
Key clients
BDO LLP
FRP Advisory
Elwell Watchorn & Saxton LLP
Savills
Mazars
Allied Irish Bank (GB)
Grant Thornton
RSM Restructuring Advisory LLP
Begbies Traynor
The Deltic Group Limited
Colliers International
Hilco Global
K J Watkin & Co
Opus Restructuring & Insolvency
Work highlights
- Advising the board of The Deltic Group Limited on directors’ duties, options analysis and on an accelerated M&A process to sell the business. Subsequently acting for the administrators of the company on the pre-pack sale of its business and assets and ongoing matters.
- Advising the administrators of Blue Bear Management Limited, the owner and developer of student accommodation in Coventry.
- Acting for the liquidator of a market leading and award-winning exhibition stand, shop fitting, set building and showroom contractor.
Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy, project finance and PFI Tier 2
With a 'depth of knowledge and experience' in the sector, Freeths LLP provides a full-service offering to clients engaged in infrastructure and energy projects, with particular expertise in transactions underpinning major developments. 'Great commercial lawyer' James Larmour specialises in the refinancing of PPP projects and PFI secondary market transactions, while Jason Richards has a strong renewable energy practice, encompassing solar, onshore wind and battery storage developments. The 'excellent' Kirstin Roberts is noted for her comprehensive knowledge of energy from waste projects.
Practice head(s):
James Larmour; Jason Richard; Kirstin Roberts
Testimonials
‘We have worked with Freeths now for a number of years on complex projects through an SPV. The team are practical and knowledgeable and are able to apply those two aspects together to secure the optimal solution for the client.’
‘Excellent staff with great knowledge and ability. They know the sector and clients really well and can provide bespoke tailored advice quickly, efficiently and pragmatically.’
‘They are extremely commercial and very responsive; you get no-nonsense, practical advice at every turn.’
‘James Larmour is a great commercial lawyer and a pleasure to work with. You can expect timely, practical advice delivered with a wry sense of humour.’
‘Kirstin Roberts is very knowledgeable, personable and client focused.’
‘James Larmour is a very experienced and knowledgeable lawyer. His advice is always technically sound, pragmatic and commercially focused.’
Key clients
Amber Infrastructure/International Public Partnerships
Dalmore Capital
Equitix
Prime plc
ENGIE
Transmission Investment
Bio Dynamics Limited
CL:AIRE
Western Bio-Energy Limited
FCC Environment (UK) Limited
Jack Moody Plc
Johnson Aggregates Limited
Mercia Waste Management Limited
Severn Waste Services Limited
Staffordshire County Council
Work highlights
- Advised International Public Partnerships on the £50m refinancing of Phase 2 of the Blackburn Building Schools for the Future Project.
- Advised Dalmore Capital on the £25m acquisition of a 50% interest in the South-East London Police PFI accommodation project from funds managed by InfraRed.
- Advising Bio Dynamic UK on a lump sum contract to upgrade three concrete process tanks to achieve 4MWe equivalent biogas output.
Public sector > Local government Tier 2
Freeths LLP specialises in assisting clients with commercial property investments, compulsory purchases and partnership agreements. Nathan Holden leads the team, focusing on supporting local authorities throughout the process of joint venture arrangements, land disposals and procurement and investment deals. Mitchell Ball is recommended for his expertise in mixed-use regeneration schemes.
Practice head(s):
Nathan Holden
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The local government team at Freeths always offer practical solutions, explained in a really clear and unassuming way, and do everything with a positive, can-do approach. For me what has stood them apart from other firms is how they work closely with us, always have time for any question and invest in building solid and supportive relationships with us and our clients to the point that they feel like our colleagues in another office who have our back.’
‘Nathan Holden is my go-to lawyer for local governance advice. He always has time, can unravel all the issues in hand to find a practical solution, while appreciating the political dimension of our local authority legal work and always explains it all in a clear and jargon-free way.’
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 2
Freeths LLP's team, which includes trade mark attorneys, handles the full spectrum of IP issues for large national and international clients with a presence in the Midlands. With over twenty years of experience, Simon Barker is well versed in trade mark, patent, design and copyright transactions and disputes, acting before various bodies including the UK Intellectual Property Office and EUIPO. London-based partner Iona Silverman, who joined the firm from Baker McKenzie in November 2020, frequently assists Barker with national and international IP transactions and joint venture agreements. 'Commercial and pragmatic' managing associate Kishan Pattni is recognised for his strength in reputation management and brand protection work.
Practice head(s):
Simon Barker
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Have developed an excellent understanding of the world within which they offer advice and legal assistance. A long history of working within this sector has developed strong grounding and background/context to allow for good, early decision making.’
‘The firm provide an unparalleled and comprehensive IP service, assisting with multinational projects and complex licensing arrangements.’
‘Simon Barker – readily available to provide advice on a myriad of different issues related to IP law.’
‘Simon Barker – top notch understanding of the commercial and legal issues in the IP field.’
‘Iona Silverman – wonderful client handling skills.’
Key clients
DBS Limited trading as SikSilk
Queen Mary University of London
Visual Foods Holdings Ltd
Oaktree Capital Management UK LLP
Aldi Stores Limited
HI55 Ventures Limited
Hastee Technologies Limited
Carlsberg
MyNexus Limited
Tarmac
Poundland
Eurocell PLC
Angiodesign Ltd
Incora
DBS Clothing Ltd T/A SikSilk
Travis Perkins
Work highlights
- Defending Aldi in a High Court claim brought by Beiersdorf in which Beiersdorf alleges that Aldi’s Lacura sun screen infringes Beiersdorf’s trade mark rights regarding its Nivea sun screen bottle.
- Drafted and negotiated agreements for SikSilk with a number of celebrities, including international footballers and their management companies, a singer/songwriter with over a million Instagram followers and a junior celebrity for the promotion of kids’ clothing.
- Advised Carlsberg on its £780m deal with Marston’s plc to form a new joint venture beer company in the UK, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2
Freeths LLP is well placed to advise clients across a broad spectrum of industries on outsourcing projects, cloud computing issues and GDPR work. Mark Neale, who is the firm's national head of IT and data, has a wealth of experience in traditional and emerging technology projects, including cross-border procurement strategies and M&A involving the transfer of data and IT systems. Among the associate pool, Matthew Johnson is a standout name, with particular strength in data protection mandates.
Practice head(s):
Mark Neale
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
NCR
Arkphire UK
Aldi Stores
Carlsberg
Tarmac
Travis Perkins
Eurocell Group
William Hill
Work highlights
- Advised Arkphire on its seven-year £50m managed services contract with the UK’s largest independent charitable hospital, The London Clinic.
- Advising Carlsberg on its £780m deal with Marston’s plc to form a new joint venture beer company in the UK, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company.
- Assisting Travis Perkins with a review of its existing IT arrangements and helping to develop strategies for the separation of IT solutions, in order to simplify the need for complicated transitional services arrangements following the future sale of the plumbing and heating division and the demerger of Wickes.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Sheffield, South Yorkshire Tier 2
Freeths LLP’s corporate and commercial practice has experience in handling acquisitions, high-value buyouts, and disposals for large corporates. Overseen by Peter Crawford, the group advises a range of clients operating across the technology, manufacturing and life sciences sectors. The core group also includes director Lisa Wallis, who is the main contact for restructurings, investment arrangements and joint ventures, as well as commercial matters including distribution agreements.
Practice head(s):
Peter Crawford
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They are like part of the team, they truly invested an amount of time into our business at the beginning and looked at the longer term relationship.’
‘They invested the time into us at the early stage and we have been with them over 5 years now.’
‘Freeths provided exceptional service in the following dimensions: Legal skills; Communication; Focus on the case; Responsiveness; Flexibility.’
‘The Freeths team were capable, available and effective in materially assisting us in achieving our objectives.’
‘Peter Crawford was the senior most person involved in our case and he impressed with his intelligence, experience and focus on achieving the best outcome.’
‘Claire Wallis was the person with whom we had the most contact with and her communication skills, in particular the ability to communicate legal issues clearly to the layman were most helpful.’
Key clients
The Floow
Practice Evolve UK
InfoTrack Group
Additive Manufacturing Technologies Limited
Careport Group
Foresight
Advanced Alloy Services
Arkote
Unihomes and Bills
Plus X
Work highlights
- Advised Practice Evolve UK on its dual acquisitions of the LineTime and Solicitors Own Software businesses.
- Advised the shareholders of leading diagnostic instrument developer and manufacturer IT-IS International on their exit to the Novacyt Group.
- Advised Foresight on its £4m investment in Sheffield machine knife manufacturer, MR Machine Knives.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Sheffield, South Yorkshire Tier 2
Freeths LLP's commercial dispute resolution team attracts praise for its 'creative thinking' and 'capability for dealing with large-scale litigation' with particular experience in shareholder disputes, breach of warranty claims, unfair prejudice proceedings and injunctive relief issues. The team is jointly led by James Hartley (who splits his time between the Leeds and Sheffield offices and is known for his group action and funding arrangement expertise) and 'excellent lawyer' James Berry, who is particularly popular among manufacturing, construction and technology sector clients. Other names to note include 'very hardworking' managing associate Ciaran Dearden and senior associate Gary Duffy.
Practice head(s):
James Hartley; James Berry
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Smaller law firm that has the capability for dealing with large scale litigation, often with an international angle.’
‘Gary Duffy has worked on a few matters for us. He is great at helping us with our litigation strategy and his written responses are exactly on point for tone and content. He is clearly experienced and enjoys his work which gives us confidence in his advice.’
‘Creative thinking when dealing with complicated matters.’
‘The team has good commercial awareness. They provide clear and concise advice and have a cost-efficient approach. Billing is transparent and commensurate to services provided.’
‘Gary Duffy has provided excellent support throughout the pandemic. Without his sound legal advice and assistance on strategy we would not have been able to come out of this unscathed.’
‘First-rate firm for commercial litigation/dispute resolution not only in Sheffield, South Yorkshire but also nationally. The team is very experienced, practical, down to earth, and good value.’
‘James Berry: an excellent lawyer with wide experience and a measured practical hands-on approach. Ciaran Dearden: a good lawyer, very hard-working and good with clients.’
Key clients
Global Technologies Racing Limited
Additive Manufacturing Technologies Limited
MGS Technical Plastics Limited
Paragon Group of Companies (Paragon Foodservice Limited, Paragon Quality Foods Limited, Paragon Property Investments Limited)
Advanced Alloy Services Limited
Maher Limited
Solihull MBC
Healthcare Business Solutions (UK) Limited
CBE Plus Limited
Cathelco Limited
OSL Group Limited
Sanguine Hospitality Limited
The Floow Limited
Macalloy Limited
Clear Line Maintenance Ltd
Work highlights
- Acting for leading manufacturer of composite components, Global Technologies Racing, in a High Court claim against 5 West Limited, the corporate vehicle for the racing team of Alex Thomson for unpaid invoices.
- Defending the majority shareholders of an agricultural and property management business in a multi-million pound unfair prejudice claim, the latest in a series of pieces of High Court litigation in a long-standing dispute.
- Successfully represented Sanguine Hospitality Limited in seeking the dismissal of a winding up petition that had been presented against it by Downing LLP, a large investment management firm.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 2
Contentious trusts expert Mark Keeley leads the private litigation team at Freeths LLP, splitting his time between Leeds, Nottingham and Birmingham. Described as an 'institution', he oversees a team that handles high value litigation under the Inheritance Act and covers both will challenges and removals. In addition, the firm has demonstrable experience in rectification and/or construction applications, Court of Protection work, estoppel claims and estates law matters such as devastavit. Notably, the practice has recently expanded into areas such as agriculture where it advises wealthy farming clients and is increasingly active internationally. 'Invaluable' managing associate Laura Short is another key contact.
Practice head(s):
Mark Keeley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great team. Laura Short does a fantastic job.’
‘Freeths is an established presence in the contentious trusts and probate market. They enjoy a solid reputation and are highly regarded among their peers.’
‘Laura Short is an invaluable contact of mine and I regularly refer clients to her when I cannot act due to conflict. A case is always improved by having her onboard.’
‘Laura Short is a complete professional and her breadth of knowledge and experience is reflective of the high quality of work her reputation attracts. Laura is able to calmly and confidently navigate the most complex claims and settle the most anxious of clients. Laura is one to watch as her technical prowess combined with her pragmatic approach is a winning combination for clients‘.
‘Mark Keeley is an institution in the contentious trust and probate world, and commands the respect of all who know him.’
‘A really approachable and knowledgeable firm.’
‘Laura Short combines excellent legal knowledge with excellent negotiating skills and gets really good results for clients.’
Real estate > Environment Tier 2
Freeths LLP’s environment team has extensive experience of advising on local and regional protected sites designated for nature conservation, as well as on applicable regulations and planning issues. On the contentious side, the team acts for corporates, organisations and individuals facing regulatory action. Water law, pollution and soil contamination are also key areas of expertise. Penny Simpson is the main contact.
Practice head(s):
Penny Simpson
Testimonials
‘Freeths certainly know their stuff on environment law! Penny Simpson is the leader of a great team.’
‘Penny Simpson has an unparalleled grasp of environmental and habitats regulations and would rate her as a market leader in this field. She has a forensic attention to detail and an ability to deliver pragmatic solutions.’
‘Direct and clear advice in an informal and formal manner as necessary. Approachable and friendly, but professional and courteous. Able to quickly understand complex situations and to provide appropriate advice in a timely manner and to budget.’
‘Penny Simpson has an impressive knowledge of protected species legislation and experience of working on a broad range of projects for various clients, allowing Freeths LLP to provide efficient and comprehensive advice.’
Key clients
Royal Horticultural Society
Southern Ecological Solutions Limited
Redrow Homes Limited (Ambrosden)
Naturespace Partnership Limited
Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England
Ampersand Homes Limited
Work highlights
- Objecting on behalf of the RHS to a very large Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project development consent order application by Highways England to alter the M25’s Junction 10.
- Advising Southern Ecological Solutions on unblocking a very significant legal constraint that was significantly delaying the delivery of the HS2 project.
- Working with a prominent environmental campaigner to secure long-term protection and restoration of the unique fen habitats across the Norfolk Broads.
Private client > Court of protection Tier 3
The majority of Freeths LLP ’ clients are brain injured and have received multi-million pound compensation awards resulting in the firm managing over £200m of funds. It also has considerable experience of working with elderly clients. The group is recommended for its work on contentious matters, preparing statutory wills and advising on gift applications as well as acting in an increasing number of welfare matters. Melanie Williams and Jane Maitland have been appointed to the Office of the Public Guardian’s Panel of Deputies since July 2015.
Practice head(s):
Natasha Molloy ; Melanie Williams
Other key lawyers:
Jane Maitland; Robyn Hemmings
Testimonials
‘Freeths is very much a people practice. There are two stand out individuals I shall name. Melanie Williams has the ability to recall facts of the case and use them with regards to the relevance of the topic under discussion. Melanie has a talent to interpret the facts and has the ability to see how they directly effect the client both personally and in the aspect of law. Melanie brings an analytical mind to the discussion, enabling clear understanding of the case and direction. Robyn Hemmings can examine a case with the ability to focus on the pertinent points. This talent brings comfort to clients as they feel in safe and assured hands‘.
‘Great expertise and technical knowledge at all levels. Jane Maitland‘.
‘Natasha Molloy is vastly experienced, dedicated and knowledgeable. She ensures that the team adopts the highest standards for client service and fully understands the responsibilities that they have with regard to the investment of claimant settlements. A thoroughly professional team who prioritise their clients’ needs. Natasha is able to manage client expectations whilst ensuring that the right financial strategies are implemented. Dealing with clients who lack capacity can be challenging but she manages the balance between clients demands and financial responsibilities. She has implemented these high standards across her department‘.
‘Extremely client centred and personable. Good communication and quick to respond to emails and messages. Natasha Molloy puts the client first and works really well with all the team‘.
‘I instruct Natasha Molloy and her team. They took over a complicated COP matter with the minimum of fuss. They gained the confidence of the client in no time and have been thoughtful and extremely reliable ever since. Natasha – A very cool head who is able to strategically plan matters whilst dealing with individuals in sometimes trying circumstances. Arranged a large scale adaptation with skill and care‘.
‘Experienced team that cares as well as serves the clients. Melanie Williams is the stand out candidate as she is caring as well as very capable‘.
‘Exceptionally experienced and dedicated staff with a vast array of service areas to call on when needed. Relatively young team and dynamic and ambitious. Natasha Molloy – Excellent presenter on her areas of experience. Manner with clients is exceptional. Dedication to always doing the right thing and such a caring and professional attitude to her clients‘.
Public sector > Healthcare Tier 3
With a history of advising care developers and operators on senior living facilities, the team at Freeths LLP acts for charities, investors, and regional operators and developers on work including sensitive end-of-life consent matters, inquests, and regulatory enforcement issues. Additionally, it provides transactional and real estate advice to providers. Based in Nottingham, practice co-leader Thomas Golding advises care operators and developers on care home acquisitions, while in Leicester, co-leader Phil Baigent advises operators on acquisitions, refinancings and disposals. In Manchester, co-leader Sarah Moore advises funders and developers.
Practice head(s):
Thomas Golding; Phil Baigent; Sarah Moore
Testimonials
‘Phil Baigent makes you feel reassured when dealing with any of the challenges we face.’
‘They explains issues very succinctly, are able to communicate with clarity and are very easy to deal with on a day to day basis.’
‘Very pragmatic and knowledgeable.’
The team at Freeths are extremely helpful, knowledgeable and always available to their clients. The team is diverse with the right mix of age, gender and race. Their recent support to client has raised their profile in the sector.’
‘Client focused, knowledgeable and easy to contact.’
‘The have an excellent understanding of the sector.’
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 3
Described by clients as 'highly impressive', the team at Freeths LLP focuses on acting for insolvency practitioners ranging from large accountancy firms to niche boutique practices. The team also handles personal insolvency work as well as restructuring and non-contentious mandates. Insolvency litigator Joey Byrne leads the group and specialises in asset recovery issues at a national and international level. ‘Excellent non-contentious insolvency lawyer’ Kevin Pinkerton is dual-qualified as a solicitor and licensed insolvency practitioner.
Practice head(s):
Joey Byrne
Other key lawyers:
Kevin Pinkerton; Graeme Danby; Miles Hacking
Testimonials
‘Freeths are highly impressive instructing solicitors. They have a wealth of internal resources and it is clear that there is a committed team of people working on a case where appropriate. They have a high degree of experience and professionalism which shines through.’
‘They use the strengths of each team member, whatever grade, to provide the best advice without thinking about maximising the fee.’
‘The team has a very clear alignment with what a client wants in insolvency.’
‘The clear top of the department is Joey Byrne, who has an edge on service in about 5 levels – best advice/most commercial/fastest response of any lawyer I deal with.’
‘I have worked with Miles Hacking. He is always available and responds quickly with sound commercial advice. He is an excellent lawyer.’
‘The team has a real depth and breadth of insolvency experience and deals with a number of large or complex corporate and personal insolvencies.’
‘They are robust and very knowledgeable and assist me with my insolvency advice. They are different from their competitors in that they listen to what me as the client says and they model their approach to take account of that.’
Key clients
Baker Tilly Creditor Services LLP
Begbies Traynor Group PLC
Clarke Bell Ltd
Cromwell Insolvency
Currie Young Group
CVR LLP
Fortis Insolvency Limited
FRP Advisory Group
Grant Thornton UK LLP
KBL Advisory Ltd
Kennway Francis
KPMG LLP
Leading Business Services Ltd
Leonard Curtis Group
Mazars LLP
PriceWaterhouseCoopers
Quantuma
Work highlights
- Acting for Fortis Insolvency Limited on the administration of School Lettings Solutions Limited, which was a national provider within the education sector.
- Acted for Leonard Curtis on the administration of AIM Engineering Limited in dealing with the appointment and all post appointment legal matters.
Public sector > Local government Tier 3
Freeths LLP's local government practice is particularly recommended for property work, with expertise in construction, tax, property litigation and town planning. Another key strength lies in providing strategic advice on the local government regulatory environment, with issues including powers, EU procurement and subsidy control. Nathan Holden, who leads the practice, advises on property projects and local authority powers of investment and disposal. Jackie Heeds joined from Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP in September 2020.
Practice head(s):
Nathan Holden
Other key lawyers:
Jackie Heeds; Ian Tempest
Testimonials
‘Strength in depth in quite a technical field (telecoms). Good understanding of how local authority projects work e.g. how seemingly minor problems can actually escalate quickly in a local authority context.’
Key clients
Cheshire East Council
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Wigan Council
Cumbria County Council
Halton Borough Council
Allerdale Borough Council
Bolton Metropolitan Borough Council
Warrington Borough Council
Blackpool Council
Buckinghamshire Council
Mansfield District Council
Sheffield City Council
London Borough of Camden
City of Bradford Metropolitan Council
Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council
Transport for the North
Derby City Council
Royal Borough of Greenwich
Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council
Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council
Cherwell District Council
Milton Keynes Council
Milton Keynes Development Partnership
East Northamptonshire District Council
Nottinghamshire County Council
Cambridge City Council
Walsall Council
Leicester City Council
Corby Borough Council
Broxtowe Borough Council
London Borough of Ealing
Enfield Council
South Cambridgeshire District Council
Nottingham City Council
Work highlights
- Advised on a £150m town centre project to secure the redevelopment of Wigan Town Centre.
- Advised on a £165m project application for the extraction of 2.7m tonnes per year of coking coal near the Cumbria coastline north of St Bees.
- Advised Liverpool City Region Combined Authority on a digital regeneration project to create a new full fibre backhaul network.
Real estate > Commercial property: Liverpool Tier 3
The Liverpool real estate team at Freeths LLP has grown its practice considerably since it was founded in 2018, displaying particular strengtsh in the area of real estate finance and a focus on the Liverpool SME market. The team also acts for clients in development and, increasingly, real estate investment work. Managing partner Andrew Nichol leads the practice, noted for his expertise of real estate finance and investment. Luke Hopkins, who contributes a wide range of experience, is a key practitioner on the team.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Nichol
Other key lawyers:
Luke Hopkins; Joei Chung
Testimonials
‘In Luke Hopkins, Joei Chung and Andy Nichol, Freeths have what I consider to be the best commercial property legal team around, and I deal with many. A combination of excellent knowledge, fantastic service, a pragmatism borne out of their confidence in their own judgement and ability, and a desire to get the job done, finding solutions rather than problems.’
‘They are contactable, proactive, knowledgeable about the lending process as a whole and have a desire to help get this job done. ’
‘Andrew Nichol approaches his work with enthusiasm and efficiency and is without doubt the most professional and commercial lawyer I have ever come across. He engages with his counterparts when in negotiations with a practical, can do attitude which has always led to excellent outcomes.’
Key clients
Harworth Group plc
Illiad Group
Allerdale Borough Council
Crossfield Living Limited
Alumier Labs UK Limited
Ascot Properties UK Limited
Better Intelligent Management Limited
Nicholson Group
Braithwaite Group
Trophy Homes Group
Mittty Group
Ghosh Medical Limited
Childwall Table and Chair Hire
C O’Dea Property Services Limited
CDM Investments Limited
West Tree Estates Limited
Roubaix Group
Pure Residential and Commercial Limited
McComb Property Company Ltd
Lloyds Bank plc
Unity Trust Bank plc
Barclays Bank plc
Handelsbanken plc
Santander UK plc
Hope Capital Ltd
Redwood Bank Ltd
Gemini Finance Limited
Velocity Bridging Limited
HSBC Bank Plc
AIB Group (UK) Plc
Clydesdale Bank Plc
Work highlights
- Advised new client, Harworth Group plc on the purchase and leaseback of Thorns Road Industrial Estate in Brierley Hill for £10.1m and on the off market purchase of Saturn Park Industrial Estate in Knowsley, Liverpool for £26m.
- Advised Lloyds Bank plc on a £10.75m loan facility for the development of a 108 luxury apartment complex.
- Advise new client Unity Trust Bank plc on the provision of loan facilities to support the £9m acquisition of Waterside Retail Park in Derbyshire.
Employment > Employment: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 3
National firm Freeths LLP has particular expertise in the education, hospitality and leisure sectors, advising clients on a range of employment matters including restructuring, TUPE issues, employment tribunal claims, discrimination cases, investigations and disciplinary matters. In Milton Keynes, 'exceptional' national schools head Christopher Sing handles complex and sensitive matters including allegations of sexual assault. 'Genuinely compassionate' senior associate Toni Hudson advises clients on employment tribunal claims.
Practice head(s):
Christopher Sing
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The range of expertise, knowledge and experience is remarkable, we feel a great sense of support and comfort knowing Freeths are there to support us. The employment advice, guidance through a restructure and two grievances have taught us alot as an organisation.’
‘Freeths are meticulous in their approach to each case and they have exceptional communication skills.’
‘Toni Hudson deserves a big mention; professional, methodical, timely, supportive, engaging – we feel a great sense of comfort when Toni is involved and advising, and have been really impressed with the service provided.’
‘I have always found Christopher Sing to be exceptional due to his ability to see right to the heart of the matter, bringing his experience and expertise to the front and ensuring the best possible outcome in each and every scenario.’
‘Freeths are extremely knowledgeable and at the same time very personable. They are professional and friendly, and take the time to discuss opinions.’
‘Toni Hudson is extremely knowledgeable and professional. She is genuinely compassionate which is very important to the ethos of our business and has represented us on a number of occasions, and has been brilliant on each occasion.’
Key clients
Helly Hansen UK Limited
London Luton Airport
Travis Perkins plc
GKN Aerospace Limited
Lyreco UK Limited
Musto Limited
Gapuma (UK) Limited
Burrows Motor Company Limited
Brioche Pasquier
Yamaha Music Europe GMBH (UK) Limited
Oxford Brooks University
Santa Maria UK Limited
T-Systems Limited
Laine Pub Company
Niftylift Limited
Chesterfield College
Brewhouse and Kitchen
The Dragon School Trust
Sports & Leisure Management Limited
Derby College Group
Landau Forte Charitable Trust
Dawsongroup plc
DK Group Investments Limited
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 3
Freeths LLP, which is highly reputed for personal and corporate insolvency matters, has well-established relationships with a number of the most prominent insolvency practitioners in the market; clients include Quantuma, Opus, FRP and Mazars. The Milton Keynes team, which is led by Simon Hobbs, is particularly known for advising insolvency practitioners and operators in the national drinks and hospitality sector; the work in this space includes advice on the acquisition/disposal of assets of national pub and restaurant chains. In Oxford, the team supports the wider national group on various matters and also acts for companies/directors facing insolvency or allegations of wrongful trading, preferences and director malfeasances. Duncan Crine has more than 25 years of litigation experience.
Practice head(s):
Simon Hobbs; Duncan Crine
Other key lawyers:
Adam Boyd; Andrew Dashwood-Begg
Key clients
FRP
Quantuma
Mazars
Opus
Wilkins Kennedy
Fortis
Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 3
Freeths LLP advises both local and national charities on a wide range of matters, led by trusts estates and tax head Nigel Roots.
Practice head(s):
Nigel Roots
Real estate > Commercial property: Bristol Tier 3
Freeths LLP's Bristol offering was bolstered with the arrival of new practice head Duncan Tringham and property litigator Dan Cuthbert from Foot Anstey in early 2020. The team is regularly involved in real estate schemes and transactions, and has experience in regeneration, housing and mixed use developments, public infrastructure and property investments. The group also advises on joint ventures between the public and private sector.
Practice head(s):
Duncan Tringham
Other key lawyers:
Emilie Criddle; Dan Cuthbert
Testimonials
‘The team has the unusual combination of highly specialist expertise and a practical, commercially minded approach. In my experience, legal practices tend to be one or the other and it’s rare to find lawyers who have both. This makes them particularly effective at delivering complex real estate/public sector projects. They also have a concentration of market leading experts in public/private collaborations, developments and regeneration projects.’
‘Dan Cuthbert is one of the best property litigators in the country and certainly in the South West. He is experienced, astute, very balanced and commercial yet always wants to do the best for his clients by trying to find the best angle in any dispute.’
‘Duncan Tringham is strategic and solution focussed, deploying a wealth of experience to resolve the many challenges which inevitably arise on complex developments and public/private collaborations. He understands how local authorities think and work and he has navigated many of them through difficult issues and projects that would deter others. His endless energy and calm and measured approach are just what you need to get the projects done and he somehow seems to maintain a good sense of humour even when you are negotiating the completion of a deal at 3 in the morning!’
‘Emilie Criddle – She is thorough, pro-active and determined. She provides a bedrock of support to the team, quietly and effectively completing her tasks to keep the projects on track. She always seems to be a step ahead of me anticipating and delivering what needs to be done.’
Key clients
The Cornwall Council
Exeter City Council
South Somerset District Council
The London Borough of Enfield
The London Borough of Hackney
The London Borough of Tower Hamlets
Liverpool City Region Combined Authority
Carlesburg UK Limited
Vilmorin & CIE S.A. (aka Limagrain Group)
Icosa Water Group
Liberatis Group (aka The 4th Utility)
The Clean Earth Energy Group
Harworth Estates Group
SmartParc Limited
The Copas Partnership
Work highlights
- Advising the Council on the Langarth Garden Village project involving the strategic acquisition and development of a new town with at least 4000 homes, new schools, commercial, retail and public space and a £47m grant funded highway scheme in collaboration with three developers.
- Advising Exeter City Council on a major city regeneration scheme at City Point involving the redevelopment of the Civic Centre and central bus station to create a new multi-use development involving a new leisure complex, bus station, local and national government offices and residential and retail units.
- Advising the London Borough of Enfield on the roll out of fast fibre network infrastructure across the borough to provide connectivity to its portfolio of properties which include more than 10,000 tenanted homes.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham Tier 3
Freeths LLP's 'dynamic' commercial dispute resolution team attracts praise for its 'innovative thinkers, especially around litigation funding'. The group is known for its ability to handle group litigation, professional negligence claims and partnership disputes, as well as claims involving applications for urgent injunctive relief. 'Sharp thinker and experienced litigator' Richard Coates leads the team, which includes the 'exceptional' Louise Wilson. Alex Johnson, who joined from Squire Patton Boggs, adds experience in major infrastructure, energy and oil and gas project disputes, while 'truly excellent' recently promoted managing associate Michael Hoskins has experience in insurance disputes.
Practice head(s):
Richard Coates
Other key lawyers:
Louise Wilson; Alex Johnson; Michael Hoskins; Josh Middleton; Raymond Joyce
Testimonials
‘Solid grounding in engineering enables the team to get to the technical heart of the issues quickly and ensure that the right questions are being asked and answered.’
‘Innovative thinkers, especially around litigation funding. Dynamic leadership and very capable associates.’
‘Highly regarded firm seen to go the extra mile for clients. Well regarded in providing expert legal advice in an affordable and approachable way.’
‘The team at Freeths is dynamic. Quick to adapt to the bumps in the road that litigation inevitably brings – either by unique approaches to funding or with swift and precise legal analysis and practical, outstanding commercial advice.‘
‘Raymond Joyce is very experienced and has a keen sense of the strengths and weaknesses of a case at an early stage. Josh Middleton is detailed and focused on his investigation, and a good lawyer to boot.’
‘Good knowledge of insurance law and practice. Michael Hoskins a truly excellent ‘up and coming’ associate.’
‘I have worked with Louise Wilson, who is an exceptional litigator. She can manage difficult clients and complex processes with ease, and is a good team player whilst also a strong leader, independent and efficient. I would not hesitate to recommend her.’
‘Richard Coates is a sharp thinker and experienced litigator. He sees opportunities and has had a strong working knowledge of the third party funding market. As part of that, he looks to deploy effective funding solutions providing clients with access to justice, where otherwise it might not be possible. He is one of the strongest lawyers in the market.‘
Key clients
Hi55 Ventures Limited
Aldi Stores Limited
Inchcape Retail Limited
Jaguar Land Rover Retail Board
The National Exhibition Centre Limited
Travis Perkins PLC
Tarmac
Short Term Finance Limited
Work highlights
- Defended Hi55 Ventures Limited and its founder in an application for a mandatory injunction and claims of dishonesty, infringement of intellectual property rights and breach of contract claims brought by Violet Group and R20 Advisory.
- Representing JRB Automotive Limited and Blue Square Penn Road Limited, and their directors, in a professional negligence claim against a local firm of solicitors which advised on the acquisition and establishment of the finance and build a Jaguar Land Rover dealership in Wolverhampton.
Finance > Banking and finance Tier 3
James Dyson is the key Birmingham-based contact at Freeths LLP; he caters to all market players including banks, funders and borrowers and pays particular attention to structured finance and corporate lending transactions such as leveraged buy-outs and general commercial lending. The national practice demonstrates notable sector expertise in the healthcare, public sector and real estate sectors and is especially well-versed in project, acquisition and mezzanine financing transactions.
Practice head(s):
James Dyson
Other key lawyers:
Ashika Patel
Testimonials
‘The team is highly innovative and responsive to needs. Rather than merely tell me the law they understand what I want to achieve and come to me with solutions. The team have also been supportive in structuring fees and payments to suit the transaction,’
‘James Dyson is attentive and has a high level of attention to detail. What makes James stand out is his commercial understanding both of what the client wants to achieve but also what works for funders and how to get to a solution that works for all parties. James is always approachable, communicates in a no-nonsense way and focuses on pragmatic solutions.’
Key clients
Allied Irish Bank
Santander
Lloyds Banking Group (including Lloyds Development Capital)
Clydesdale Bank / Yorkshire Bank
Alhi United Bank
Redwood Bank
Cambridge & Counties Bank
Frontier Development Capital
ICG-Longbow
Chancerygate
Leumi ABL
West Midlands Combined Authoruty
Work highlights
- Advised Clydesdale Bank plc on the provision of a senior term loan acquisition finance facility to Cloudthing Group Limited.
- Advised Reflex Group on the provision of asset based lending facilities by ABN Amro.
- Advised West Midlands Combined Authority on the provision of a term loan to Coventry City Council to support the growth and development its wholly owned SPV, UK Battery Industrialisation Centre Limited.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 3
Freeths LLP is best known for its work on high-value contentious trusts and probate litigation in addition to its contentious court of protection work. The team’s reputation for acting as replacement trustees/administrators/deputies has continued to grow and the practice benefits from Mark Keeley’s status as a busy mediator for private wealth disputes. Keeley leads the practice that has been busy advising wealthy farming clients on numerous disputes involving farming estates and on cases with an international dimension. Senior associate Max Orbach has a varied caseload of contested trust and probate disputes.
Practice head(s):
Mark Keeley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Mark Keeley is one of the leading private client litigators in the country.’
‘Freeths are renowned for having an established and experienced team of specialist contentious trust and probate lawyers. They have the resources of a large regional firm to call on and excellent connections in the industry sector. The team members are knowledgeable and approachable.’
‘Mark Keeley leads by example and combines his excellent technical legal knowledge with emotional intelligence and common sense. His skills as a mediator enable him to carry his clients and opponents alike towards a negotiated outcome in even the most fraught family disputes.’
‘Freeths are one of the leading teams in the Midlands specialising in Contentious Trusts and Probate. They have real expertise and are always sensible and pragmatic to deal with.’
‘Mark Keeley is extremely knowledgeable and experienced. He is well supported by Max Orbach.’
‘Mark Keeley is excellent – both as a lawyer and as a mediator. He is calm, measured and unflappable while possessing detailed knowledge of the practice area.’
‘Mark Keeley is a first-rate litigator. A good mix of legal know-how and common sense.’
‘Freeths have an exceptional team that combines a large firm ethos and professionalism, and technical knowledge with the more consumer-friendly approach often found in smaller firms.’
Real estate > Construction Tier 3
At Freeths LLP, practice head Perveen Akhter is the key contact for non-contentious work, directing particular emphasis towards projects in the energy and renewables fields. The contentious offering is helmed by the ‘very knowledgeable’ Alex Johnson who demonstrates a capacity for cross-border disputes and international arbitration pertaining to major oil and gas, infrastructure and energy projects.
Practice head(s):
Perveen Akhter
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Alex Johnson is very accessible and always open and transparent in his dealings. He is very knowledgeable in his subject matters.’
‘During the Covid-19 pandemic, meetings were not possible and still we were able to work remotely and efficiently. Freeths has nominated a single point of contact who then calls upon other colleagues depending on the expertise required to deal with the specific issue in hand.’
‘They provide straightforward and clear advice on which decisions can then be discussed and taken. Alex Johnson has been great in dealing promptly with the questions and issues put to him.’
Key clients
Aldi
Tarmac
Gleeds
PCE Limited
Greswolde Construction Limited
Lloyds Bank Plc
Clydesdale Bank Limited
Hive Energy (UK)
Hull Esteem Consortium LEP Limited
London Luton Airport
Porcelanosa (South East) Limited
Catalyst Capital
Engie Fabricom
Work highlights
- Acted for Hive Energy UK in connection with a significant value high profile solar park development.
- Acting for the Liverpool Combined Authority in an ambitious digital regeneration project to create a new full fibre backhaul network comprising over 220km of ultra-fast broadband across all six districts comprising the Liverpool City Region.
- Acting for Catalyst Capital in relation to developing a 49.9MW transmission-connected battery storage, private wire and EV charging hub project as part of a joint venture with Downing LLP (an infrastructure investor and asset manager with over £1bn of asset under management).
Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 3
Based in Sheffield, Freeths LLP’s national tax practice is led by Adrian Hackett and is experienced advising on a number of corporate transactions pertaining to the real estate sector. The group has investors, funds and large companies as key clients. Claire Boyce advises on corporate reorganisation and restructuring matters.
Practice head(s):
Adrian Hackett
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Caboodle Delivery Limited
Frontier Development Capital Ltd (FDC)
VIPR Limited
Spaceright Europe Limited
Codebase 8 Limited
DPS Software Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Caboodle Delivery Limited on an SEIS investment, a tax and financial structure of the business model and VAT modelling for food retailers and delivery drivers.
- Advising the FDC fund in relation to the structuring of the fund and admission of new investor partners.
- Advising on the management buyout of Spaceright Europe Limited by Rockpool Investments.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 3
Freeths LLP counts corporate, commercial and competition litigation among its areas of focus and is developing a reputation for handling group litigation claims. Led by 'very experienced litigator' James Hartley, the team represented over 550 claimants in high-profile litigation brought against the Post Office. Other names to note include Lindsey Clegg, who counts aviation and aviation leasing issues among her niche areas of expertise; Dean Hill, who attracts praise for his tactical approach; and 'up-and-coming associate' Chloe Oram. It also has a growing sports sector practice, which was bolstered by the arrival of Geoff Cunningham from Walker Morris LLP.
Practice head(s):
James Hartley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very good lawyers. Calm, aggressive and proactive in commercial disputes.’
‘Lindsey Clegg. She is stand out- head and shoulders above her peers. An excellent commercial litigator. Magic Circle quality but outside London.’
‘The team at Freeths worked tirelessly in helping me and my team achieve the right result. Nothing was ever too much trouble and all the Freeths team were very proactive with their communication.’
‘Freeths are far more advanced than their contemporaries in that their business model is based on working as a valued partner. Freeths lead the pack in this regard working a modern and mutual way.’
‘Dean Hill, as well as being legally excellent as you would expect, Dean is a great communicator and understands situations quickly. His tactical approach is excellent and you have real confidence that he will not only support you, but do it in a professional way.’
‘I have found their Leeds dispute resolution practice to be distinguished by the professional and experienced manner in which they handle complex litigation. In this they exceed the capabilities of the rivals of which I am familiar in the area.’
‘James Hartley is a very experienced litigator, who is “City quality’. Chloe Oram is an up and coming associate who is clever and attentive to detail, and has a great future.’
Key clients
Onur Air Tasimacilk A.S.
Tarmac
Travis Perkins Plc
Begbies Traynor
Peerless Europe
Additive Manufacturing Technologies Limited
Wealth at Work Limited
Work highlights
- Represented 550+ sub-postmasters in a high-profile group action against Post Office Limited arising out of failures in its Horizon computer system and the treatment of a large cohort of sub-postmasters.
- Successfully defended the Trustees of the AKJ 2007 Settlement and obtained summary judgment on counterclaims for c. £9m together with indemnity costs, in a complex dispute arising out of a series of corporate transactions where allegations of fraud and conspiracy had been made by the investment vehicle of a high-profile Yorkshire businessman against the clients in a failed attempt to avoid payment under loan notes and relates guarantees.
- Successfully represented an international renewable energy provider is securing a high value tri-partite settlement, with payment of all monies due, together with Final Acceptance on the Project and the removal of any ongoing commercial or credit risk, following instruction in long running dispute involving overseas domiciled counter-parties regarding the construction and ongoing operation of a photovoltaic power plant.
Employment > Employment: Sheffield and South Yorkshire Tier 3
Freeths LLP's employment team is 'pragmatic and commercially aware', and is headed up by Tom Draper in Sheffield. The group handles a range of contentious and non-contentious matters including unfair dismissals, TUPE issues and discrimination claims. The group has also enhanced its offering with the addition of Lee Williams, who advises on redundancy matters and day-to-day HR issues. Also in the group is Elizabeth Ferguson, who has various private companies, SMEs, corporates and public sector organisations as key clients.
Practice head(s):
Tom Draper
Other key lawyers:
Lee William; Elizabeth Ferguson; Toby Pochron
Testimonials
‘I believe the team are well rounded and between them are able to support with all issues, support and advice. The team is very responsive and discuses the rationale behind their advice.’
‘The individuals at the firm are very knowledgeable and they support with sector specific issues. Individuals point you in the direction of recent developments and how it could effect the business which allows us to be proactive and prevent issues.’
‘The team is friendly, approachable and available when we need support, often working to tight deadlines.’
‘Tom Draper is a reliable source of support for us, and he understands our ways of working. He is available whenever we need him and he is always able to deal with issues quickly and effectively.’
‘Very efficient communication both within and outside of normal working hours. Excellent availability of partners and associates, very punctual with legal documentation.’
‘Tom Draper – Highly articulate, ability to view cases from different perspectives, very professional yet down to earth no nonsense approach, Knowledgeable with the best interest of the clients aims always in view.’
‘I think it provides a great service and the lawyers make a great effort to familiarise themselves with the business and give practical and easy to follow advice. This has been of enormous help to me over the past year or so.’
‘I work mainly with Toby Pochron – he is really good at getting back to us, he provides great practical advice – he has been a life saver this year and saved me so much time and helped with really complex problems within our workforce. Being able to contact him at the drop of a hat has meant that a lot of the stress has been lifted! Can’t recommend him too highly.’
Key clients
Abbey Care & Nursing @Home Limited
ASK4 Group
C.F. Booth Group
Gemini Computer Systems Limited
Hydro-X Group
In-Part Publishing Limited
NG Bailey Group
St Luke’s Hospice
Inspired Villages Group
AESSEAL Plc
Elevation Recruitment Limited
Infotrack Limited
Kingfield Care Group
Plus X Holdings Limited
The Wolf Safety Lamp Co Limited
Sheffield City Council
Tutora Limited
Arkote Limited
Straight Manufacturing Limited
Progressive Care Limited
Bradley Refrigeration Limited
Queenscourt T/A QFM Group
NTT Data UK Limited
P&K Recruitment Limited
Northern Taxis Limited T/A City Taxis
Magnetic Systems Technology Limited
Cathelco Limited
Boynton Bros (Ranskill) Limited
Employment > Pensions Tier 3
Freeths LLP’s pensions team is led by new national head of the group Rena Magdani, who had over two decades of expertise in complex TUPE transfers, redundancy issues and restructuring work. Former practice head Nigel Bolton left the team to head up the new pensions practice at Bevan Brittan LLP.
Practice head(s):
Rena Magdani
Public sector > Local government Tier 3
Freeths LLP is strong in all aspects of property transactions, and it also excels in undertaking planning and development work for local authorities. In addition, it has been increasingly active in advising councils on acquisition of shopping centres and commercial property investments. Liz Banks, who heads up the team in West Yorkshire, is experienced in portfolio management, disposals of land and development matters.
Practice head(s):
Liz Banks
Testimonials
‘The combined expertise of fee-earners in their offices means that they are able to give advice on the full range of local government legal needs whether it be for routine matters (eg – acting on Right to Buy instructions) or large matters (eg – judicial review).’
Key clients
Royal Borough of Greenwich
Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council
Derby City Council
Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council
Cherwell District Council
Buckinghamshire Council
Milton Keynes Council
Milton Keynes Development Partnership
East Northamptonshire District Council
Nottinghamshire County Council
Cambridge City Council
Mansfield District Council
Walsall Council
Leicester City Council
Corby Borough Council
Broxtowe Borough Council
London Borough of Ealing
Enfield Council
Work highlights
- Advising Leeds City Council on the continued disposal of a number of brownfield land sites for development
- Acting for Kirklees Council on the Right to Buy process for 200 properties.
- Advising Leeds City Council on the redevelopment of a key site located adjacent to the historic Kirkgate market.
Real estate > Commercial property: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 3
Freeths LLP is praised for its 'prompt service, commercial awareness and reasonable fee scales'. The team is led by Liz Banks, John Flathers and Jonathan Crew, who are experienced in a myriad of commercial real estate matters. Banks regularly manages properties on behalf of national hotel brands, retail chains and other occupiers, while Flathers is an expert in financing and investment. Crew handles new store development programmes for large national retailers and is also experienced in commercial development projects.
Practice head(s):
Liz Banks; John Flathers; Jonathan Crew
Testimonials
‘The team deal with things practically, not over-complicating issues and explaining the legal aspects in an understandable way. They are able to offer practical advice and find solutions to any issues encountered.’
‘Jonathan Crew unequalled service over many years. Fast to respond, not looking for problems which don’t exist. Excellent advice.’
‘Prompt service, commercially aware, reasonable fee scales and always available.’
‘Jonathan Crew provides a very professional and speedy real estate service for us. He knows our requirements in respect of property transactions having used him for many years, which greatly reduces conveyancing times.’
‘John Flathers of Freeths LLP has been impressive on a recent high value and complex sale, and on a subsequent instruction regarding an option to purchase. John was very reliable and communicative. He would undoubtedly be our first port of call on any matter going forwards.’
‘Attentive, commercially pragmatic and realistic in their advice and billing.’
‘John Flathers is a consistent source of of sensible advice that you can rely on.’
Key clients
Travelodge Hotels Limited
Wickes Building Supplies Limited
Magnet Limited
NHS Property Services Limited
Caddick Development Group
Samara Group
C.P. Hart & Sons
Mostyn Estates
Aldi Stores Limited
Hargreaves Services PLC
Work highlights
- Advising the administrators (Alvarez & Marsal) of Le Pain Quotidien Ltd on the property disposal of the 16 restaurants in central London to the Buyer Brunchco Limited.
- Advising Yorparks & Trustees of GMI Holdings Ltd Trust Fund on the disposal of the Headingley Medical Centre complex in Headingley Leeds for £8m.
- Advising Wickes on their store acquisition and disposal programme throughout 2020/21.
Real estate > Construction Tier 3
Freeths LLP 'consistently demonstrates commercial nous, industry understanding and determination to secure the best outcome for the client'. Joseph Hale has 'great experience and understanding of the construction industry' and is a reputable disputes specialist for all players in the construction supply chain servicing the energy, rail and utilities sectors. Practice co-head Rachael Yates is recommended for disputes, procurement issues and the management of risks on projects.
Practice head(s):
Rachael Yates; Joseph Hale
Testimonials
‘The team consistently demonstrates commercial nous, industry understanding, and determination to secure the best outcome for the client.’
‘Joseph Hale (partner): He has great experience and understanding of the construction industry, takes a hands-on involvement in the case, and genuinely cares about getting the best outcome for the client.’
‘Freeths in Leeds has managed to collect an incredibly strong group of people, which makes them a very impressive team.’
‘Very good team. Very strong knowledge of the construction market. ’
‘Joseph Hale – a very clever and experienced partner, who has a good sense of humour. ’
‘Diverse pool of solicitors, covering a wide range of issues. Assisted my business on many issues with UK projects and foreign clients.’
‘I do believe Joseph Hale provides exceptional service. Joe has exceptional NEC knowledge. His communication and engagement skills are exceptional. These attributes, supported by his significant operational knowledge allow him to get at the key facts and circumstances very efficiently.’
Key clients
Engie Fabricom UK Limited
Eric Wright Group Limited
Sarens (UK) Limited
Work highlights
- Acting for Engie Fabricom UK Limited in a dispute with MW High Tech Projects UK Limited regarding the Energy Works Hull EfW project.
- Advising Rotherham Borough Council on works to develop three town centre sites for residential development.
- Acted for APCOA Parking Ltd in relation to construction contracts for the design and construction of a multi-storey car park at Northwick Park Hospital.
Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 4
Retail is a key sector for Freeths LLP; the national firm's 'pragmatic and commercial' practice is led from London by office managing partner and disputes specialist Philippa Dempster. Other key names include property specialists Sarah Griggs and Jon Smart and IP and media head Simon Barker. Smart and Barker are based in Nottingham and Birmingham, illustrating the firm's wide national reach - it has a total of 12 offices across the UK. Clients are drawn from sectors such as fashion, food and drink and home improvement - the firm also works with a number of prominent designer outlet shopping companies, advising on development, leasing and employment matters.Practice head(s):
Philippa Dempster
Other key lawyers:
Sarah Griggs; Jon Smart; Charlotte Rees-John; Matt Stephens; Dahren Naidoo; Simon Barker; Jessica Matthews
Testimonials
‘Sarah Griggs is a trusted expert in delivering on acquisition requirements.’
‘The team are always available and provide pragmatic and commercial responses. They have supported us by allowing us to collaborate and learn more about how they work.’
‘With both the challenges and the opportunities that the recent pandemic has brought to fruition, this last 18 months has been our busiest to date. Freeths’ advice and legal insight has always been held in the highest regard by our company directors; but we can confidently assure others that our navigation of the recent waters, has been far simpler and far more manageable as a result of the close partnership we have built with both Sarah Griggs and Matt Stephens. Both, with the support of their respective teams, have been innovative in their approach to some of the most testing of situations. It is very much a ‘can-do’ attitude, one that looks for innovative solutions, one which is proactive and one which sits hand in hand with our focus on creating sustainable and profitable retailing of the future.’
‘Sarah Griggs – I never hesitate to recommend her. Commercial and knowledgeable in dealing with all aspects of the acquisition process.’
‘Charlotte Rees-John understands our business and is therefore able to offer us advice which is tailored to the culture we operate within. Her responses are always timely, her communication clear and in plain speak and she operates in a way which not only protects the business in the moment, but also provides ‘learning’ moments so the team are supported for the future.’
‘Sarah Griggs and Matt Stephens are both exceptional. Professional. Honest. Responsive. Innovative thinkers.’
Key clients
Lyle & Scott
Scotch Corner Designer Village
Travis Perkins PLC
JOSEPH
Hotel Chocolat
McArthurGlen UK Limited
Star Brands Limited
Carlsberg
Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein (PVH UK Group)
Paul Smith
Work highlights
- Assisted Travis Perkins in a contractual separation project for the divestment of the wholesale plumbing and heating division (Primaflow F&P) from its group portfolio.
- Acting for Lyle & Scott in a claim against American Eagle Outfitters for passing off and breach of co-existence agreement in relation to the use of the parties’ respective eagle logos.
- Advising Scotch Corner Designer Village, a leading designer outlet-shopping destination in the North of England, on all aspects of the scheme since inception, including crafting template documentation and exchanging agreements to develop and lease 30 units to 24 different retailers and restaurateurs.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Franchising Tier 4
Freeths LLP advises franchisors on commercial contracts, IP, real estate, disputes, employment and competition matters. It has been acting for large and smaller brands for a number of years. The team's work spans the retail, manufacturing, food and drink and hospitality sectors, among others. Iain Bowler heads up the group.
Practice head(s):
Iain Bowler
Other key lawyers:
Philippa Dempster; Charlotte Rees-John; Andrew Maxwell; Rebecca Howlett; Nigel Gardner; Guy Winfield; Frank Suttie
Testimonials
‘Freeths focuses on common sense law – solutions to problems rather than legal jargon.’
‘Iain Bowler is a first-class operator who solves problems.’
Key clients
Costa Limited
Work highlights
- Acting as Costa’s preferred legal providers for all employee relations advice from advising on day to day employment matters, together with supporting on complex project work relating to their significant portfolio of UK stores and franchises.
- Assisted QFM with managing its operation during the Covid pandemic, one of the single most challenging periods of trading the business has faced, particularly in relation to the complex regulations relating to the closure and reopening of non-essential businesses and the Eat Out to Help Out Scheme.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Bristol Tier 4
The Bristol office of Freeths LLP opened in 2019, with Emily Settle brought in from Foot Anstey to lead the corporate and private equity group. The team is steadily building a notable practice, with instructions relating to M&A and distressed M&A, as well as complex capital structuring for private equity portfolio companies. Settle is particularly experienced in acting as co-counsel with Magic Circle firms on private equity transactions and portfolio issues. The team continues to expand, and added managing associate Charlotte Hugo from Foot Anstey in February 2021.
Practice head(s):
Emily Settle
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Carlsberg Breweries A/S
Public Group International Limited
The Cornwall Council
Work highlights
- Acted as co-counsel to Carlsberg on its £780m deal with Marston’s plc to form a new joint venture beer company in the UK, Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC).
- Advising the Govtech platform and venture firm PUBLIC.io on the strategic acquisition of Microtest Limited and subsequent structuring and shareholders’ arrangements.
- Advising Cornwall Council on the development of the Stadium for Cornwall, a new 16,000-seat stadium in Truro with ancillary hotel and commercial/retail space, in a joint venture with the Cornish Pirates, Truro City Football Club, Truro Penwith College and grant funded by HM Treasury and LEP.
Employment Tier 4
Freeths LLP has a varied client base that acts for a number of major private and public sector clients. Its lawyers frequently conduct their own advocacy at the employment tribunals and have developed a strong reputation for their work on TUPE issues and restructuring as well as for their advice on the ‘gig economy’. Rebecca Sawbridge is a key member of the team along with Peter Gavin. Managing associate Lynne Ingram is also skilled across all aspects of HR and employment matters.
Practice head(s):
Julian Middleton; Rebecca Sawbridge; Peter Gavin
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Rebecca Sawbridge – dedicated, passionate, knowledgeable, approachable – to name a few. ’
‘Availability, excellent communication skills. Able to provide practical solutions to issues while ensuring legal compliance’.
‘Approachable; always provides sound advice and guidance including where that advice is to exercise caution. Identifies and advises where proposed courses of action may lead to difficulties. Advises on the level of risk and potential consequences while providing a range of possible options’.
‘Freeths LLP has never let us down no matter the diversity of the advice we seek. No matter the topic the high level service either from the firm directly or from its global network remains consistent. I have been fortunate to have the support and expertise of Rebecca Sawbridge in several business that I have been involved with. The availability she offers to our business is truly exceptional and her advice always pragmatic and accurate’.
‘Very commercially minded – understands the requirement to bring to a fast conclusion’.
‘Peter Gavin recognises that issues must be dealt with quickly enabling the organisation to concentrate on the business’.
‘We have developed excellent working relationships with both Peter Gavin and Lynne Ingram in particular, and their support, expertise and guidance is always spot on. They have spent the time to know the individuals, relationships and organisation to ensure that their advice is within the context of the environment’.
Key clients
ALDI Stores Limited
DPD Group UK Limited
Sofidel Group
Staffline Recruitment Limited
National Express Limited
Center Parcs
Paul Smith Limited
ERIKS Industrial Services Limited
The Reflex Group Limited
Goodridge Limited
Preston Innovations Limited
Birmingham Metropolitan College
EH Smith (Builders Merchants) Limited
The British Horse Society
AP Racing Limited
West Midlands Growth Company
JS Wright
The Alumasc Group plc
Envisage Group Limited
Mettler Toledo Limited
Robert Welch Designs Limited
Universal Works Limited
Understanding Care Limited
Work highlights
- Advising Paul Smith Limited on the implementation of furlough leave and a redundancy exercise, involving numerous business functions and affecting over 900 staff, in multiple locations. 126 employees roles were made redundant, without resulting in any Employment Tribunal claims.
Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham Tier 4
Freeths LLP delivers a ‘complete service combining planning, finance, development and landlord and tenant’ expertise. Managing partner Richard Beverley heads the practice and is principally experienced in land assembly and mixed-use development projects with further expertise in supporting prominent fashion retailers on their real estate requirements. The ‘excellent’ Mitchell Ball is also a ‘standout’ due to his proficiency in food retail developments and site acquisitions, as well as his expertise in town planning.
Practice head(s):
Richard Beverley
Other key lawyers:
Mitchell Ball; Lucy Jackson; Alexander Jones; Nathan Holden
Testimonials
‘The team are by far the most responsive I have worked with. ’
‘Mitchell Ball has been excellent. Nothing is too much trouble and his response time is superb. All done with a smile too which makes a big difference. Mitchell is very good a distilling complicated legal matters into something that we can understand and use. ’
‘Freeths has a complete service combining planning, finance, development and L&T which integrate well together to provide a total solution to all property deals regardless of size and complexity. The firm offers good value for money for the service and level of expertise provided.’
‘Mitchell Ball is the standout real estate partner. He works quickly and effectively to meet any timetable set. He has the ability to get to the nub of issues providing straightforward, pragmatic and understandable advice.’
Key clients
Paul Smith Limited
Real Estate Investors plc
Santander UK plc
Measure Corporation Limited
Calthorpe Estates
Gant UK Limited
Lacoste UK Limited
The Kooples UK Limited
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council
Leicester City Council
Cherwell District Council
Castle Point Borough Council
Walsall Metropolitan Borough Council
Telford & Wrekin Council
Daventry District Council
Stockton on Tees Borough Council
West Yorkshire Combined Authority
Tandridge District Council
Lloyds Bank plc
Y International (UK) Limited
The National Exhibition Centre Limited
National Westminster Bank
Bates Wells Braithwaite LLP
The Richborough Estates Partnership Limited
Savills
Birmingham Metropolitan College
Gloucester City Council
Cheltenham Borough Council
Work highlights
- Instructed to advise Peterborough City Council in relation to the £150m City Centre North Westgate scheme. This is a major City Centre development to comprise new homes, offices, hotel, retail, restaurants and public spaces.
- Acitng on behalf of the National Exhibition Centre Limited on the management of their property portfolio. Work includes leasehold work on their warehouse and exhibition spaces at both the NEC and the Birmingham City Centre sites.
- Instructed by national residential land promoter The Richborough Estates Partnership to put in place land promotion agreements in relation to proposed residential development sites.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 4
Freeths LLP is adept in a broad variety of property disputes including breach of lease covenant, service charge, dilapidations, break rights, forfeiture and possession claims. Practice head David Marsden is also been increasingly active on fire safety, insolvency and CVA matters of late and in light of the Covid-19 pandemic, has also supported a number of large landlord clients in respect of the failure of commercial to comply with their rent-related lease covenants.
Practice head(s):
David Marsden
Other key lawyers:
Alison Willis
Testimonials
‘Very impressive indeed. Very tough fighters, but practical and commercial in their focus.’
‘David Marsden is an impressive litigator and strategic thinker.’
Key clients
The Lazari Group
Mazars LLP (Gloucester)
Blue Liverpool Limited
Blue Manchester Limited
Canary Riverside Estate Management Limited
Yianis Hotels Limited
Octagon Overseas Limited
Work highlights
- Advised a property development and investment company in relation to an injunction preventing the use of alleged confidential documents.
- Represented Blue Manchester Limited in relation to a claim against its landlord regarding remedial works to the property and its breach of its repairing covenant.
- Acted for Lazari Properties 2 Limited in challenging the YO! Sushi and New Look CVAs.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Tier 4
Freeths LLP’s corporate and commercial practice has a focus on large regional and national private equity transactions, acting for corporates and SME's. Based out of Leeds, key practitioners to note include Dahren Naidoo, who advises investors and shareholders on M&A, and Andy Francey, who handles corporate restructurings and reorganisations. On the transactional side, Jeremy Swift is the key name, particularly for cross-border acquisitions across EMEA.
Practice head(s):
Jeremy Swift; Andy Francey; Dahren Naidoo
Private client > Family: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Tier 4
At Freeths LLP, the national family practice is led from Oxford by Rachael Oakes; the key name in Leeds is managing associate Mark Heppinstall, who joined the firm in 2019 after earlier stints at Stowe Family Law LLP and Irwin Mitchell. He advises on contested divorce and financial remedy proceedings and children disputes, handling a range of high value matters, working alongside associate Nicola Heslop, and is praised for his 'excellent bedside manner with clients'.
Practice head(s):
Mark Heppinstall
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Small niche private client office led by Mark Heppinstall who is measured , meticulous, modest and methodical.’
‘The team is known for offering practical solutions to complex problems and punches above its weight in terms of the skillset within the team.’
‘Mark Heppinstall is someone I have respect for and who stands out due to his encyclopaedic knowledge of family law.’
‘Mark Heppinstall has been a very supportive and caring lawyer. He has been understanding and sensitive to the unusual and painful circumstances that I have found myself to be in. He is able to clearly see my perspective and has been able to see and to inform me of all sides of the situation in detail and with clarity.’
‘Mark Heppinstall: a very able lawyer with a bright future.’
‘Mark Heppinstall is a very pragmatic and practical advisor, with an excellent bedside manner with clients.’
‘Mark Heppinstall is an exceptionally competent, technically astute lawyer who has a broad practice. He gives excellent advice and manages his clients’ expectations well.’
‘Mark Heppinstall is the standout individual within the team and displays all the attributes you would wish to see in a family lawyer. Clients and opponents praise his technical knowledge and practical skills along with excellent client care skills.’
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 5
Freeths LLP's multifaceted practice covers high-value and high-profile group actions, corporate/M&A litigation, commercial disputes and fraud cases. In addition, other areas of strength include insolvency matters and gaming cases. London managing partner Philippa Dempster has a wide-ranging workload, which covers UK and cross-border mandates. Directors Imogen Randall and Vickie Williams are other names to note.
Practice head(s):
Philippa Dempster
Other key lawyers:
Imogen Randall; Vickie Williams; Sajjid Kurmani
Testimonials
‘Solicitors fall into two categories – those who tell you what they are going to do and those who work with you to determine the optimum course of action. Philippa Dempster and her team definitely fall into the latter category.‘
‘Philippa Dempster is approachable and has a razor-sharp intellect; she is also always available, and never in any doubt that I am the client and they are the professional adviser.‘
‘Philippa Dempster is open to out-of-the-box approaches to issues proposed by a lay client. But, most importantly, she gets results!‘
Key clients
Group Action – 555 sub-postmasters
Toys ‘R’ Us
Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE
GP Surveyors
Lyle & Scott
Teqcycle Solutions
Work highlights
- Acted in the headline group action against the Post Office (on behalf of 555 claimants) for damages suffered by reason of the failings of the Horizon computer system.
- Acted for Toys ‘R’ Us in a standstill agreement dispute.
- Acted for Sir Kenneth Olisa in a defamation claim against the Institute of Directors.
Real estate > Planning Tier 5
Freeths LLP offers clients a one-stop service for planning, working closely with its real estate practice to handle DCOs for NSIPs, large-scale developments, CIL and contentious planning matters. Practice head Robert Bruce provides 'first-class planning advice' and is noted for his specialist expertise in highways and public rights of way.
Practice head(s):
Robert Bruce
Other key lawyers:
Jennifer Roe
Testimonials
‘Rob Bruce and Jennifer Roe – good legal and practical skills, easy to work with and to coordinate inquiry work.’
‘Good all-round knowledge of planning law. Also, provided detailed yet easy to understand response, which allows us to make a decision with all the information.’
‘Rob Bruce has provided first-class planning advice throughout. He has very good legal knowledge, is equally good in applying it, is very thorough and very quick to respond. He also has very good communication skills.’
‘Freeths legal team do not hide behind a desk like so many other firms. They fully engage with the client to understand the issues and collectively work with you to find a solution.’
Key clients
Royal Borough of Greenwich
Taylor Wimpey / Transport for London
Cumbria County Council
Bucks County Council
Raycliff Capital
Tarmac
Aldi Stores Limited
Premier Construction
FedEx
Work highlights
- Advised Royal Borough of Greenwich on all their complicated planning matters.
- Advised Aldi Stores Limited on three judicial reviews by competing supermarkets in 2020-2021 (Bolton, Chelmsford and Rugeley). One which was dismissed on all grounds and the other two are ongoing.
- Advised and represented Raycliff Capital in relation to a major public inquiry for applications called-in by the Secretary of State relating to the Whitechapel Bell Foundry listed building (Grade II*) and adjacent land.
Real estate > Property finance Tier 5
With 'great knowledge and commercial views', Freeths LLP acts for borrower investment and development companies, private equity and infrastructure funds, and lender clients. Debt financing for healthcare facilities, student accommodation, and mixed-use and residential development schemes is also a strength of the team. The 'brilliant' Richard Williams heads the practice, and has expertise in advising on the funding of residential development schemes. Chris Freeston has strengths in advising both lenders and borrowers and Ed Hall leads the team's public sector offering, acting for local authorities.
Practice head(s):
Richard Williams
Other key lawyers:
Chris Freeston; Ed Hall; Helen Jones
Testimonials
‘Excellent at progressing loan documentation. Great knowledge and commercial views. Overall, deals require less input from our side and transactions are more efficient.’
‘What makes this team unique is they combine expertise and knowledge with a great personal touch and really understand both their work and their clients. They are professional, completely tuned in to the client’s specific needs and always a pleasure to deal with.’
‘A key positive is that when an issue arises or a decision is required, they provide advice and guidance rather than simply requesting us as the client to make a decision. We receive the benefit of their knowledge and understanding of the sector and similar transactions.’
‘Richard Williams is a brilliant lawyer and is able to offer pragmatic and commercial solutions in order to ensure a successful transaction is achieved. He has grown his team and has gone from strength to strength, bringing in some high-profile clients for the firm over the last few years. Helen Jones is also a very capable and technically strong member of the team.’
‘Chris Freeston has a perfect balance of technical expertise and commercial acumen.’
‘I have worked with both Richard Williams and Ed Hall. Richard is an excellent lawyer but also very personable and down to earth and I can see why he wins and retains clients. Ed is easy to deal with and is a very good lawyer. They are both very good communicators.’
Key clients
Daiwa Capital Markets Europe Limited
CBRE Indirect Investment Services Limited
The Bank of London & The Middle East
LaSalle Investment Management
Santander UK plc
ICG-Longbow
Lloyds Banking Group
Clydesdale Bank
Patron Capital
HSBC
RBSi
Hamberley Developments
Amber Infrastructure
Work highlights
- Acting for the City North Finsbury Park joint venture in relation to its £100m debt funding arranged by LaSalle Investment Management in respect of the significant City North mixed-use development
- Acted for the borrower, Real Estate Investors plc, on a £51m refinance of its existing facility with NatWest.
- Advising the CBRE-managed North West Evergreen Fund in relation to a £10.75m loan made to InfraRed Capital Partners to complete its 172,000 sq ft Raven Locks speculative industrial scheme on brownfield land in Little Hulton, Salford.
Employment Tier 5
Freeths LLP is experienced in advising on contentious and non-contentious employment law matters, with a particular focus on the retail, hospitality, and consumer goods sectors. The practice provides ongoing support to many of its clients, working with their HR teams on issues such as internal investigations, the drafting of employee contracts and policies, and responding to tribunal claims. Charlotte Rees-John leads the practice, while director Laura Tracey joined in January 2021 from Squire Patton Boggs. Tracey has broad experience in this area of law, with a particular specialism in the employment aspects of transactions.
Practice head(s):
Charlotte Rees-John
Other key lawyers:
Laura Tracey; Tahera Khan; Matt Fraser
Key clients
Aldi Stores Limited
Costa Limited
Pure Gym Limited
Colosseum Dental UK Limited
Zertus UK Holdings Limited
McArthurGlen UK Limited
LMC (The Consortium of Local Medical Committees of Lancashire and Cumbria)
DBS Clothing Limited
Hough Green Garage Limited
Nottinghamshire YMCA
Star Brands Limited
Work highlights
- Assisting Costa on all employee relations advice from advising on day to day employment matters , together with supporting on complex project work relating to their significant portfolio of UK stores
- Provided McArthurGlen UK Limited with invaluable support in respect of the COVID 19 pandemic; assisting them through the temporary closure of their outlets, furloughing staff, consultation processes and providing critical operational support.
- Providing 24/7 helpline support for the Pure Gym Limited HR team on any employee relations matters as well as supporting on strategic projects which arise.
Real estate > Commercial property: Manchester Tier 5
The Freeths LLP Manchester real estate team includes local government specialist Ian Tempest, Stephen Lewis and Paul Bibby.
Other key lawyers:
Employment > Immigration Tier 6
Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity
Freeths LLP handles both contentious and non-contentious data protection and cybersecurity matters, including breach work. The team is led by Luke Dixon, who recently joined from Addleshaw Goddard.
Yorkshire and the Humber > Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 2
Contentious trusts expert Mark Keeley leads the private litigation team at Freeths LLP, splitting his time between Leeds, Nottingham and Birmingham. Described as an 'institution', he oversees a team that handles high value litigation under the Inheritance Act and covers both will challenges and removals. In addition, the firm has demonstrable experience in rectification and/or construction applications, Court of Protection work, estoppel claims and estates law matters such as devastavit. Notably, the practice has recently expanded into areas such as agriculture where it advises wealthy farming clients and is increasingly active internationally. 'Invaluable' managing associate Laura Short is another key contact.
Practice head(s):
Mark Keeley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great team. Laura Short does a fantastic job.’
‘Freeths is an established presence in the contentious trusts and probate market. They enjoy a solid reputation and are highly regarded among their peers.’
‘Laura Short is an invaluable contact of mine and I regularly refer clients to her when I cannot act due to conflict. A case is always improved by having her onboard.’
‘Laura Short is a complete professional and her breadth of knowledge and experience is reflective of the high quality of work her reputation attracts. Laura is able to calmly and confidently navigate the most complex claims and settle the most anxious of clients. Laura is one to watch as her technical prowess combined with her pragmatic approach is a winning combination for clients‘.
‘Mark Keeley is an institution in the contentious trust and probate world, and commands the respect of all who know him.’
‘A really approachable and knowledgeable firm.’
‘Laura Short combines excellent legal knowledge with excellent negotiating skills and gets really good results for clients.’
West Midlands > Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
Freeths LLP is best known for its work on high-value contentious trusts and probate litigation in addition to its contentious court of protection work. The team’s reputation for acting as replacement trustees/administrators/deputies has continued to grow and the practice benefits from Mark Keeley’s status as a busy mediator for private wealth disputes. Keeley leads the practice that has been busy advising wealthy farming clients on numerous disputes involving farming estates and on cases with an international dimension. Senior associate Max Orbach has a varied caseload of contested trust and probate disputes.
Practice head(s):
Mark Keeley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Mark Keeley is one of the leading private client litigators in the country.’
‘Freeths are renowned for having an established and experienced team of specialist contentious trust and probate lawyers. They have the resources of a large regional firm to call on and excellent connections in the industry sector. The team members are knowledgeable and approachable.’
‘Mark Keeley leads by example and combines his excellent technical legal knowledge with emotional intelligence and common sense. His skills as a mediator enable him to carry his clients and opponents alike towards a negotiated outcome in even the most fraught family disputes.’
‘Freeths are one of the leading teams in the Midlands specialising in Contentious Trusts and Probate. They have real expertise and are always sensible and pragmatic to deal with.’
‘Mark Keeley is extremely knowledgeable and experienced. He is well supported by Max Orbach.’
‘Mark Keeley is excellent – both as a lawyer and as a mediator. He is calm, measured and unflappable while possessing detailed knowledge of the practice area.’
‘Mark Keeley is a first-rate litigator. A good mix of legal know-how and common sense.’
‘Freeths have an exceptional team that combines a large firm ethos and professionalism, and technical knowledge with the more consumer-friendly approach often found in smaller firms.’
Freeths LLP > Firm Profile
Freeths is a national law firm with a great reputation for delivering high-quality advice and results for its clients. Clients talk about trusting the Freeths team to do the right thing, and like their strong ethics, integrity and entrepreneurial spirit.
The firm: Freeths is a top 50, £100m+ turnover, full service commercial law firm with 12 offices spread across the UK. This firmly establishes Freeths as one of the leading national law firms in the UK. A snapshot of clients includes: Aldi, RBS, Tarmac, BDW Group, Ladbrokes Coral, Travis Perkins, Fresenius Medical Care, Santander, Capita, Bellway Homes Limited, Whitbread Group PLC, Centre Parcs, Poundland, Nottingham University and Experian.
Freeths has won a host of regional and national accolades in recent years, including being listed in The Times best Law Firms 2021, and is ranked 57th in the Sunday Times Top 100 Best Companies to Work For 2019. It also won ‘Firm of the Year’ in the UK Diversity Legal Awards 2017. The Legal 500’s UK rankings for 2021 also put Freeths as a top-tier firm in no less than 21 categories, we have 33 Leading Elite Lawyers and 153 Recommended Lawyers. Of those 153, 14 are recommended as Next Generation Lawyers. Freeths has also been awarded silver standard in Investors in People and Legal Technology Awards and nominations. The firm is committed to the regional communities in which it is based and actively supports a number of causes, both nationally and regionally.
The firm’s approach is rooted in knowing and understanding its clients and building value. Freeths’ core values ensure it is committed to: delivering results by taking ownership of the situation in order to provide practical and often bespoke solutions; building trust and long-term relationships, working closely with clients and sharing risk when appropriate; and thinking differently, with the firm offering real insight and innovative solutions to legal and commercial issues, and to the way in which these are delivered to help its clients get a step ahead.
Clients of Freeths are particularly impressed with its efforts to partner closely with them to reduce their legal spend by analysing the root cause and then up-skilling the client’s team.
Types of work undertaken: The firm works with major international and UK corporations, FTSE/AIM companies, regional businesses, institutions, public bodies and high-net-worth individuals. It works across all areas of practice, including corporate, commercial, HR, pensions, property (developers, institutional lenders, investors, housing associations, and commercial landlords and tenants), planning, environmental, tax, dispute resolution, intellectual property, EC law and corporate defence.
Freeths’ private client team has an excellent reputation for advising individuals on every aspect of their life, from wealth generation and preservation through to acquisitions and disposals of property, future planning (wills and probate), family and childcare matters, personal injury, clinical negligence, and helping people who lack capacity due to an accident, old age, mental illness or learning difficulties.
Key sector specialisms include stand-out experience in the drinks and hospitality sector, retail, food, franchise, transport, renewable energy, property, healthcare and public sector.
The private client team at Freeths’ Oxford office is well known in agriculture, bloodstock and rural affairs, as well as the charities sector.
Other offices: Birmingham, Bristol, Derby, Leeds, Leicester, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Nottingham, Oxford and Sheffield.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Chairman | Colin Flanagan | ||
Chief executive | Peter Smith | ||
Corporate and commercial | Karl Jansen | ||
Construction | Chris Holwell | ||
Dispute resolution | Philippa Dempster | ||
Employment | Julian Middleton | ||
Real estate | Darren Williamson | ||
Private client | Nigel Cullen | ||
Private client | Jane Goulding |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Patrick Adie | Patrick is an experienced Partner in our Residential Development Team. He specialises… | View Profile |
![]() | Emma Anderson | Director | View Profile |
![]() | Phil Baigent | Member | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Balen | Consultant conducting professional and clinical negligence, product liability, defamation, and personal injury claims. | View Profile |
![]() | Gemma Bedford | Gemma works alongside Jane Williams on a wide range of cases including… | View Profile |
![]() | Claire Bennett | Claire is a Senior Associate based in our Nottingham office. She specialises… | View Profile |
![]() | Guy Berwick | Partner & National Head of Dispute Management Guy has a wide-ranging experience… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Brailsford | Member – planning and environment. | View Profile |
![]() | Nicola Burrowes | Nicola is an experienced Associate with a broad range of experience in… | View Profile |
![]() | Maxine Chenoweth | Maxine is a commercial lawyer with significant experience in a broad range… | View Profile |
![]() | James Clamp | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Rachel Clarke | Rachel has over 12 years experience acting for the Social Housing sector… | View Profile |
![]() | Nigel Cullen Obe Td Dl | Partner dealing with wills, trusts, probate and inheritance tax planning. | View Profile |
![]() | Heather Davies | Partner. | View Profile |
![]() | Adrian Denton | Adrian has 10 years’ experience representing his clients in clinical negligence claims.… | View Profile |
![]() | Adam Edwards | Director | View Profile |
![]() | Gemma Elliott | Gemma is the principal point of contact for several SMEs (Small and… | View Profile |
![]() | Tristam FitzHugh | Tristam is a highly experienced transactional real estate lawyer who advises on… | View Profile |
![]() | Jade Flint | After training at a niche litigation practice, Jade joined the firm in… | View Profile |
![]() | Chris Freeston | Partner specialising in all areas of finance, particularly property and project finance.… | View Profile |
![]() | Rachel Gaffney | Director | View Profile |
![]() | Ben Gant | Ben has particular experience in the care, student accommodation and minerals sectors.… | View Profile |
![]() | Thomas Golding | A partner in Freeths’ Real Estate department, Thomas advises businesses (and individuals)… | View Profile |
![]() | Jane Goulding | Head of PI team; partner dealing with personal injury (claimant) specialising in… | View Profile |
![]() | Mark Gradwell | Partner specialising in investment property, landlord and tenant, NHS and other healthcare… | View Profile |
![]() | Nicola Grange | Nicola Grange is a Senior Associate at our Nottingham office. She has… | View Profile |
![]() | Graham Greenfield | Head of commercial litigation department and also head of the insolvency unit,… | View Profile |
![]() | Julie Grimble | Director | View Profile |
![]() | Shama Gupta | Shama is a qualified solicitor, currently working as a professional support lawyer.… | View Profile |
![]() | James Hart | Property development with particular emphasis on major projects. In recent years James… | View Profile |
![]() | John Heaphy | Head of banking and finance division specialising in all aspects of corporate… | View Profile |
![]() | Robert Hill | Robert has worked in our Dispute Resolution department since qualifying at Freeths… | View Profile |
![]() | Katie Hillier | Katie joined Freeths in March 2014. Previously Katie worked in the London… | View Profile |
![]() | Christopher Holwell | Partner and National Head of Construction, specialising in construction procurement work including… | View Profile |
![]() | Deryck Houghton | Partner in Freeths LLP’s information technology and data business services group, dealing… | View Profile |
![]() | Karl Jansen | Partner and head of corporate dealing with acquisitions, disposals and mergers, private… | View Profile |
![]() | Beth Jenkins | Beth regularly deals with a wide range of Real Estate Litigation issues.… | View Profile |
![]() | Ben Jones | Ben assists the partners and senior lawyers in the team providing a… | View Profile |
![]() | Mark Keeley | Partner in charge of private litigation unit; the unit covers a range… | View Profile |
![]() | John Kelly | An experienced dispute lawyer, John specialises in complex construction defects cases, including… | View Profile |
![]() | Atiyya Khaliq | Partner in the real estate department at Freeths Nottingham office. Specialist areas… | View Profile |
![]() | David Lane | Member | View Profile |
![]() | Rebecca Maeers | Rebecca heads the residential property team in Nottingham and has 14 years’… | View Profile |
![]() | Michaela Mason | Michaela specialises in acting for institutional investors and landlords (including local authority… | View Profile |
![]() | Jennie McBride | Jennie has over 15 years experience in our Private Client team since… | View Profile |
![]() | Matt McBride | Partner in the employment department. Acts for a range of employer clients… | View Profile |
![]() | Frances McKinnon | Frances has over 10 years post qualification experience as a property lawyer,… | View Profile |
![]() | Scott McKittrick | Director | View Profile |
![]() | Louise Mee | Louise specialises in private and public sector residential developments and strategic land… | View Profile |
![]() | Susan Miles | Partner -private client department; specialist area of work is Court of Protection. | View Profile |
![]() | Natasha Molloy | Partner and Head of Court of Protection (Nottingham) Natasha is a highly… | View Profile |
![]() | Amy Morley | Partner in the construction team specialising in the management of construction and… | View Profile |
![]() | Bob Neal | Head of tax, advises on a wide range of business and property… | View Profile |
![]() | Sarah Norton | A diligent Real Estate lawyer, Sarah specialises in development and investment acquisitions… | View Profile |
![]() | Ian Payne | Partner. | View Profile |
![]() | Stephen Pearson | Partner and Head of Education Group specialising in procurement, public-private partnerships, projects, outsourcing,… | View Profile |
![]() | Sarah Phillips | Sarah specialises in advice relating to the creation, administration and termination of… | View Profile |
![]() | Edward Pickard | Edward deals with all Real Estate litigation issues, including lease renewals, exercise… | View Profile |
![]() | David Potter | Partner heading up team of employment lawyers, providing full range of legal… | View Profile |
![]() | Charles Powell | Experienced mediator who has conducted more than 400 commercial mediations. Deals with… | View Profile |
![]() | Vicky Pritchard | Vicky has considerable experience in the investment property field and of landlord… | View Profile |
![]() | Isobel Radford | Specialist areas: landlord and tenant, investment property, banking and education. Recent significant… | View Profile |
![]() | Gary Reynolds | Partner in commercial property department specialising in the acquisition of residential and… | View Profile |
![]() | Gillian Roberts | Partner in real estate. Specialist areas include landlord and tenant, investment property,… | View Profile |
![]() | Ian Rowson | Partner in real estate development, dealing primarily with commercial property development and… | View Profile |
![]() | Charlotte Royal | Charlotte qualified in 2010 and joined the private client team at Freeths… | View Profile |
![]() | Julie Russell | Julie has many years’ experience in all areas of planning law, including… | View Profile |
![]() | Mona Schroedel | Mona qualified in 2008 and has wide-ranging experience in acting for private… | View Profile |
![]() | Emna Sfar-Gandoura | View Profile | |
![]() | Jon Smart | Partner, real estate notably heading the care sector team. Wide range of… | View Profile |
![]() | Judith Speed | Partner specialising in family law, including prenuptial ,post nuptial and cohabitation agreements, divorce,… | View Profile |
![]() | Dilys Taylor | Dilys is a Senior Associate in the Real Estate team with particular… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Thorogood | Partner. | View Profile |
![]() | David Tillcock | Partner in risk management department, specialises in corporate finance and commercial work… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Tomkins | Partner in real estate litigation team dealing with all types of property… | View Profile |
![]() | Lilly Toop | Lilly is a senior associate with over seven years’ experience in Private… | View Profile |
![]() | Navada Ward | Navada works in the Court of Protection department. She has acted for… | View Profile |
![]() | Adam Watson | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Chris Waumsley | Head of planning and environment team. | View Profile |
![]() | Darren Williamson | Development, investment and general property-related work of a commercial nature. Clients include… | View Profile |
![]() | Guy Winfield | Partner and head of the Real Estate team in Nottingham specialising in… | View Profile |
![]() | Polly Wisner | Polly advises public and private sector clients on all areas of planning… | View Profile |
![]() | Caroline Wofinden | Director leading the Plots & Management team acting for national, regional and… | View Profile |
![]() | Kelly Wood | Kelly advises clients on a wide range of commercial real estate transactions,… | View Profile |
![]() | Roger Wright | Consultant with particular experience of commercial property development, commercial property funding, sale… | View Profile |
![]() | Liz Young | Liz is an RTPI Chartered Town Planner with over 5 years planning… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 206 Number of other UK fee-earners : 546Diversity/Community
Corporate Social Responsibility means making a positive difference in our wider community.
Freeths are a forward-thinking firm and we are keen to do our bit for a wide range of community programs. This could be through offering our expertise to help people in need, or by simply giving up some of our time. We play active roles in organisations, volunteer in schools and provide pro bono work.
Here’s how Freeths are making a difference
Some examples of our community engagement:
- Right to Read Participating in a national literacy programme at eight primary schools
- Business in FOCUS Providing mentoring to disadvantaged people during a law simulation exercise
- Pro Bono schemes Legal work without charge, including substantial cases for accident victims
- Enterprise 4 Education Helping to raise young people’s employability through workshops and talks
- Give & Gain Day An international day raising general awareness of the value of volunteering
- The Legal Scholarship Scheme A bursary and paid work experience at our Milton Keynes office
- Freeths E-Mentoring Scheme Mentoring for law students at eight universities and colleges
Supporting a different charity every year
We are pleased to announce that our new firm charity will be Mind, the leading mental health charity. Mind campaign to improve services, raise awareness and provide support directly to those who need it most. We look forward to working with Mind on their mission to get support and respect for everyone experiencing a mental health problem.
Last year, we were proud to support Alzheimer’s Society, the UK’s leading dementia support and research charity. We have raised over £50,000 for this cause. In May, over forty of our staff took part in a charity skydive reaching heights of 10,000ft at speeds of up to 120mph before making the leap! We also conquered the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge last year, climbing 3 mountains in under 12 hours.
Our Green Approach
We are committed to being more environmentally friendly, recycling widely in our offices to reduce our impact on the planet. We do this by using recycled products where possible, aiming to source our energy ethically by investigating alternative renewable energy sources, and carrying out audits of our buildings.
Freeths are proud to be making progress with a firm-wide travel plan. This includes our Cycle to Work scheme and encouraging our staff to use public transport through subsidised season tickets.
We ensure that all our suppliers are aware of our CSR Policy, and that we progressively influence them to adopt good environmental practices.
To underline our commitment we have gained ISO14001 accreditation.
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Nottingham and Derby
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: elsewhere in the East Midlands
- Employment
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Private client > Family
- Public sector
- Real estate > Commercial property: Nottingham and Derby
- Real estate > Construction
- Real estate > Planning and environment
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Real estate > Social housing
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Private client > Agriculture and estates
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Private client > Family: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Elsewhere in East Midlands
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Licensing
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Nottingham and Derby
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in the East Midlands
- Corporate and commercial > M&A: smaller deals, up to £50m
- Dispute resolution > Mediators
- Public sector > Local government
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Real estate > Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
- Real estate > Commercial property: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Birmingham
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: elsewhere in the West Midlands
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy, project finance and PFI
- Public sector > Local government
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Sheffield, South Yorkshire
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Sheffield, South Yorkshire
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Real estate > Environment
Firm Rankings
- Private client > Court of protection
- Public sector > Healthcare
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Public sector > Local government
- Real estate > Commercial property: Liverpool
- Employment > Employment: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Private client > Charities and not-for-profit
- Real estate > Commercial property: Bristol
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Real estate > Construction
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire
- Employment > Employment: Sheffield and South Yorkshire
- Employment > Pensions
- Public sector > Local government
- Real estate > Commercial property: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire
- Real estate > Construction
- Industry focus > Retail and consumer
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Franchising
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Bristol
- Employment
- Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire
- Private client > Family: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire