Boyes Turner > Reading, England > Firm Profile
Boyes Turner Offices
ABBOTS HOUSE
ABBEY STREET
READING
RG1 3BD
England
Boyes Turner > The Legal 500 Rankings
Employment > Employment: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1
Boyes Turner has a strong track record in advising technology sector clients, retaining large blue-chip clients and start-ups. The team also has specialist expertise in dealing with cross-border employment issues, an area in which practice head Barry Stanton has extensive expertise. Other key partners include Michael Farrier, who is an experienced advocate before the tribunal courts, and Helen Goss, whose practice focuses on the leisure and hospitality sectors. Newly promoted partner Andrew Whiteaker and senior associate Claire Taylor-Evans are also recommended; Whiteaker focuses on managing pan-EMEA employment law requirements and Taylor-Evans handles high-level exits and assists clients with gender pay issues.
Practice head(s):
Barry Stanton
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team has provided a high level of support and advice over the last few months where we have needed to address a number of HR-related issues. Each of these issues has contained very specific details that have required careful consideration – the advice provided has allowed all of these issues to be addressed.’
‘Barry Stanton continues to provide high-quality advice and support – his innovative suggestions to address particular issues has allowed successful solutions to be reached in a number of difficult circumstances.’
‘The approachability and quick turnaround are what we really appreciate about this firm. They are very responsive with the required skill which greatly assists a busy in-house team.’
‘Andrew Whiteaker – excellent in providing prompt, practical advice. He is able to get to grips quickly with complex law and scenarios. Very approachable and willing to assist. He is a trusted adviser to us and we are always happy to put him in front of the in-house client directly. He brings bags of experience and delivers advice in a way that is easy to understand.’
‘Helen Goss – practical, great to work with, very pragmatic, no nonsense lawyer.’
‘Michael Farrier is a true powerhouse in Employment law practice. His deep, intelligent thinking, influenced by global commercial practice enables him to advise in a way that few others can. He can read situations quickly, commercially, and is always the first person to spot the gem in an argument that will often become indefensible for the opposition. Quite simply, he is the legal partner I continue to choose time and time again – because there are simply very few who are better!’
‘Boyes Turner has a very well-regarded employment team for good reason. They have excellent clients and are able to pool an impressive resource of knowledge.’
Key clients
Infor (United Kingdom) Limited
Reading Borough Council
Tesla Motors Limited
Avago Technologies UK Limited (Broadcom)
Culligan UK Limited
ESP Global Solutions Limited
Work highlights
- Advising a leading cloud data management provider on the restructuring of its operations both in the UK and internationally.
- Acting for Reading Borough Council in defending equal pay claims.
- Advised and supported Tesla in resisting allegations of unfair dismissal, sex discrimination and victimisation as well as managing multi-grievances from a current employee over a six-month period.
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1
Boyes Turner's practice is characterised by the range and complexity of its work, with the firm being instructed in contentious and non-contentious matters, a portion of which has a cross-border dimension. Reflective of its first-rate reputation, the firm acts for a sizeable number of insolvency practitioners nationwide. Practice head Phil Smith and recently promoted partner Oliver Fitzpatrick are the names to note at the firm, which excels in handling administrations, LPA receiverships, sales of insolvent businesses and contentious corporate/personal insolvency matters. Smith is acting for the security trustee for the senior lenders of the energy company, Arlington Infrastructure Limited, which went into administration in 2020.
Practice head(s):
Phil Smith
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A genuine specialist department within a multi-disciplinary regional powerhouse. Quick to react and always with pinpoint accurate advice. Experts in their field led by Phil Smith and Oliver Fitzpatrick.’
‘For me they are the unparalleled best insolvency specialist; often punching above their weight and outwitting far larger organisations.’
‘Oliver Fitzpatrick is always responsive and equally comfortable providing highly technical analysis or commercial advice. Always my ‘go to’ solicitor. Highly personable and very easy to work with.’
‘Phil Smith is an incredibly experienced head of insolvency; again equally adept at being commercial or highly technical.’
‘Strong team with good strength in depth.’
‘Phil Smith is a very experienced and commercial lawyer.’
‘Oliver Fitzpatrick is a very good young lawyer. Proactive and commercial.’
Key clients
KPMG
Manolete Partners
BDO
C Hoare & Co
HJS Recovery
CMB Partners
Begbies Traynor
Smith & Williamson
Harrisons Business Recovery
Antony Batty & Company
Work highlights
- Advising the Joint Administrators of payday lender DJS (UK) Limited, aka “PiggyBank”, with particular emphasis of analysing and reporting on the validity of almost 50 different securities and dealing with competing claims regarding their validity and priority status.
- Acting for the Trustee in Bankruptcy of Vernon James Burke, a former solicitor who was struck-off by the Solicitors’ Disciplinary Tribunal in 2017.
- Acting for the joint liquidator of Cradle Arc Plc, a company with shareholdings in various mineral exploration projects in Africa.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant Tier 1
Boyes Turner‘s team has an outstanding track record securing significant judgements in high-value legally and medically complex clinical negligence and personal injury cases. Led by Susan Brown, the clinical negligence group frequently handles cases involving birth and neonatal brain injuries, spinal injuries and cerebral palsy. She works with Richard Money-Kyrle, as well as senior associates Vanessa Wand and Julie Marsh. Kim Milan leads the personal injury team, which includes Claire Roantree; its wide-ranging experience includes matters involving spinal cord damage, orthopaedic and musculoskeletal injuries, amputations and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Laura Magson, who recently made partner, heads up the mesothelioma and asbestos group.Practice head(s):
Susan Brown
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Susan Brown was our solicitor, treated us with the utmost respect and was very professional at all times.’
‘They listen to me and work with me, they are considerate, polite and encouraging. Very personal in their approach.’
‘Polite, considerate, quick to respond. They go above and beyond to ensure I am up to date and informed.’
‘Dealing with complex multifactorial cases, there is strength in the legal analysis and understanding of claims, but also clear precise instructions which do not infringe an expert witness independence.’
‘Claire Roantree has been an exceptional solicitor, intellectually decisive but also thoughtful and caring towards her clients.’
‘I have found the Boyes Turner personal injury team to be a very well-run effective operation with knowledge and experience, which enabled them to bring our case to a very satisfactory conclusion.’
‘Our case was handled by Kim Milan, who has demonstrated the highest professional standards throughout, combined with the evident determination that the client’s needs must come first.’
Work highlights
- Secured £20m capitalised equivalent settlement for child claimant who suffers severe dyskinetic cerebral palsy as a result of acute hypoxia suffered during delivery caused by multiple midwifery errors.
- Secured £13m capitalised equivalent settlement for the brain-damaged 19 year old claimant in this medically complex case, hampered by incomplete medical records, evidential difficulties and the family’s relocation to Australia. Worked with experts in the UK and Australia to value the claim.
- Secured £21.2m capitalised equivalent settlement for the severely disabled child claimant who suffered grade 2 hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy when delivery was negligently delayed by up to 4.5 hours. The claimant will require full time care and will be totally dependent on others throughout her significantly shortened life.
Real estate > Commercial property: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1
Boyes Turner's real estate group consists of four distinct areas of property expertise; commercial issues; developments and house building work; residential and plot mandates; and collective enfranchisement mandates. The group also has niche specialisms in acting for offshore trusts and investors, and aggregate and waste companies. Nick Carter heads up the practice, handling commercial property transactions for a range of national and international companies in the industrial, life sciences and TMT sectors. Mark Appleton is an expert in the management of investment properties and estates, and Derek Ching specialises in land development work including environmental and planning issues. Associates Rachel Duncan and Sarah Webb are also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Nick Carter
Other key lawyers:
Mark Appleton; Derek Ching; Rachel Duncan; Sarah Webb; William Nassau-Lake
Testimonials
‘The team continues to provide excellent advice and support. The attention to detail and prompt turnaround of matters sets this team apart from others.’
‘Attention to detail and personal service levels… many years of collective experience is invaluable.’
‘Rachel Duncan. She makes the effort to really understand client priorities and then goes the extra ten miles to deliver them. In my experience her ability to do this is rare in private practice.’
‘They were very responsive from start to finish during a complex transaction and their high standards of work were not disrupted by the pandemic.’
‘Nick Carter is exceptional and provided all the support needed to meet our requirements and kept us updated every step of the way with very commercial and practical advice.’
‘Very personable, nothing is too much, can be contacted at most times of day. Mark Appleton and Derek Ching particularly.’
Key clients
Cotax Limited and Winslett Property Limited trading as Cygnet Investments Limited
Castlefort Homes
Allerton Group
Guardian Media Group plc
Analog Devices UK Limited
Ramboll
AS 24 Fuel Card Limited
Hitachi Consulting
Verifone
Montpelier Estates Limited and associated companies.
Thomas Homes
Harleyford Aggregates Ltd
Trowelrads.Com
Ssassy Property
Work highlights
- Advising Ssassy at every stage throughout the life cycle of its ground breaking carbon natural 100% sustainable residential development of 25 custom build residential units in Southmoor Oxfordshire with a GDV of circa £12.5m.
- Advising Kyocera on the reorganisation of its headquarters in the UK at Eldon Court Reading.
- Acting for Cygnet Investments on a refinancing of existing debt over a property, and the development of 63 apartments, infrastructure and other buildings and to create 77 serviced house plots situated lakeside in the Cotswolds with a deal value of £38m.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1
The team at Boyes Turner, though experienced in all areas of IP, have developed a strong reputation for advises companies from the tech and media sectors. The team often works closely with its clients to develop pan-European brand protection and IP commercialisation strategies, as well as handling trade mark, design right and patent infringement disputes. Practice head Mark Blunden is one of the outstanding names in the region; he leads the firm’s international practice and focuses on cross-border work.Practice head(s):
Mark Blunden
Other key lawyers:
Stephen Baker
Testimonials
‘Personal service. Quick response times. In depth legal knowledge. Not inclined to over extend when faced with a weak case – they will tell you exactly what your chances are.’
Key clients
Duffy & Sweeny Ltd
Auto Trader Ltd
Harvey Water Softeners Ltd
ESP Global Ltd
Virtualstock Ltd
Zimmer Biomet
Evolva AG
Innovyze
Spamhaus
Bedrock Healthcare Communications
2Heads Global
Work highlights
- Advising Duffy & Sweeney Limited on branding issues in relation to Benrus, a classic wristwatch company, including revocation actions and new trade mark registrations.
- Advising Harvey Water Softeners Limited on the patent strategy for its next generation water softener and the step to patent a curved salt block on a must fit basis.
- Advising Culligan regarding allegation and proceedings relating to products allegedly infringing design right, patent and trade mark rights.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 1
Based in Reading, Boyes Turner is well-placed to advise early stage tech companies and established names on a broad range of issues. The group has expertise in numerous areas, including funding rounds, commercial contracts, data protection and supply chain issues. Practice head Mark Blunden‘s name is ubiquitous in the market and he is frequently consulted by clients for his international technology expertise. As a recent example, in 2020 Blunden advised Wind River on contractual negotiations with telecoms, defence and automotive companies across the EMEA region.Practice head(s):
Mark Blunden
Other key lawyers:
Amir Kousari; Kate Eavis
Testimonials
‘A good, cohesive team delivering sound advice combined with a clear understanding as to commercial realities. Many firms offer lip service to this last point, Boyes Turner understand that some compromise is necessary and work with the client to arrive at an optimal position from both a legal and commercial perspective.’
‘Special thanks to Mark Blunden. Obviously he understands the legal landscape but he has an ability to listen and frame problems in a simple, concise manner. His ability to deliver is quite impressive too. Witness his ability to dig a domain name out of a bankruptcy court in America when others had failed.’
Key clients
Innovyze
Wind River
Signal Media
2 Heads Global
Ericsson
Spamhaus
Bedrock Healthcare Communications
AND Digital
Virtualstock
Mobeus
ESP Global
Work highlights
- Advising 2Heads Global on negotiation of complex IP ownership of background and foreground and associated licensing provisions.
- Advising Spamhaus on licensing its Data Feed Service which utilizes real-time Domain Name System-based Blackhole Lists to ICANN.
- Advising Mobeus on its injection of growth capital into Muller EV Ltd, which designs aspirational electric vehicle charge points.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 2
Handling complex IT matters, the team at Boyes Turner specialises in the technology sector, providing strategic commercial, transactional, regulatory and contentious advice to its national and international client base. Corporate lead Kate Eavis has extensive experience in providing advice to high-growth technology companies through the funding lifecycle as well as domestic and international M&A transactions. In addition, the team is able to provide expertise to clients in the water industry, with Chris Dobson as a specialist in this sector. Mark Blunden leads the technology sector and international sector teams.
Practice head(s):
Kate Eavis; Mark Blunden
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A good, cohesive team delivering sound advice combined with a clear understanding as to commercial realities. Many firms offer lip service to this last point; Boyes Turner understand that some compromise is necessary and work with the client to arrive at an optimal position from both a legal and commercial perspective.’
‘Boyes Turner has been a truly trusted and valuable partner to our business from day one when we were simply a start-up with a concept and no resources. We were valued as much as any other long-term client would have been – the partners and associates within the practice pooled resources, time and connections to help get our business off the ground and we have never looked back.’
‘Chris Dobson and Mark Blunden have both been stand-out individuals with the firm for us, Chris especially has been a great support throughout our working relationship. He has on many occasions been able to bring together teams or contacts to resolves issues we have faced, or gone away to research a problem to find a resolution. Many of these times he has given his time freely and without hesitation – we are very grateful for that.’
Key clients
Sonos Inc
Culligan International
Auto Trader Group Plc
Mobeus Equity Partners
Panasonic
CIRCOR International Inc.
Origin Enterprises Plc
AND Digital
Harvey Water Softeners
Xtrac Transmissions
Wayfair
Zip Water
Mortgage Gym
IRI
Becton Dickinson
Innovyze
Wind River
Signal Media
2 Heads Global
Ericsson
Spamhaus
Bedrock Healthcare Communications
Virtualstock
ESP Global
Work highlights
- Advising AND Digital on all legal aspects in respect of securing an investment from BGF to fund future growth.
- Advising Mobeus on its injection of growth capital into Muller EV Ltd (t/a Anderson EV), which designs aspirational electric vehicle charge points.
- Advising 2Heads Global on negotiation of complex IP ownership of background and foreground and associated licensing provisions in connection with production of a live show and PlayTech visitor experience at Legoland Korea.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 2
Boyes Turner services a broad spectrum of clients, ranging from local SMEs to international listed companies. The team advises on a range of matters, including pensions, product liability, injunctions, IP, professional negligence and partnership disputes. Stephen Baker and Rowan Turrall were both promoted to partner in September 2020; Turrall, whose work covers a wide range of commercial disputes, with emphasis on IT and construction, also became the new practice head. The team has further strengthened its offering with the hire of director James Quinn, who was previously a senior associate at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP in London.
Practice head(s):
Rowan Turrall
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great and efficient commercial advice at a good price – much cheaper than London firms.’
‘Very clear in their advice – very helpful billing structures.’
‘Stephen Baker is an excellent and thorough litigation lawyer.’
Key clients
Viavi Solutions UK Ltd
Zimmer GmbH & Zimmer Biomet UK Ltd
Francis Construction Ltd
H Young (Operations) Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Viavi Solutions UK Ltd on a Part 8 claim brought by trustees of a pension scheme and a Part 7 professional negligence claim against Bond Pearce, both in the High Court and worth £7m.
- Advised an antiquities and art dealer in the defence of two claims issued by a prominent Qatari shareholding company with a combined value of $5.2m.
- Advised Zimmer GmbH in a costs assessment in respect of a £2.7m costs liability being challenged by the claimant’s ATE insurers.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 2
The property litigation team at Boyes Turner undertakes advisory work and litigation for housing associations, developers and major commercial entities. In addition to its capabilities in lease provisions, collective enfranchisements, and private land law advisory work, the team fields a dedicated landlord and tenant service charge recovery team, where practice head Russell May and associate Katie Rampton are key figures. Associate Darryn Harris is experienced in an array of real estate disputes, most notably on possession claims.
Practice head(s):
Russell May
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The firm has a broad commercial savvy which informs the strategies that they offer their clients. They are able to identify cost-effective solutions or directions even when litigation is the only option.’
‘Russell May has a very clear way of explaining things which helps get to the heart of things efficiently. He brings a very sharp mind to his clients’ cases but in a pragmatic, not academic, way, which is appreciated by clients and counsel. He attends to the nuts and bolts, as well as the big picture.’
‘Boyes Turner were extremely helpful and explained the process very clearly.’
‘The Boyes Tuner team were very capable. Russell May (our designated partner) was exceptional and a class act throughout.’
Key clients
Colt Group Limited
Affinity Reading Limited
Thomas Homes Limited
Trustees of the Reading District Odd Fellows
Work highlights
- Acting for a commercial tenant in court proceedings for a declaration on the insurance clauses in a head lease which was widely reported.
- Successful defending court proceedings brought by a commercial tenant against a developer. The tenant challenged the client’s notice seeking possession based on an intention to redevelop. The tenant argued that the developer did not have the requisite intention to redevelop.
- Acted for an individual co-owner of property following a relationship breakdown in connection with a dispute over the terms of a trust deed, the division of proceeds of sale and how the property was to be marketed and sold. Proceedings for an order for sale and to determine how the proceeds of sale are to be split concluded with a favourable settlement for the client.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment Tier 2
Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 3
Boyes Turner focuses on book debt referrals, insolvency proceedings and the defence of small claims, and Rachel Brown stands out for her expertise in cross-border recoveries. The 'very efficient and immensely experienced' Donna Goddard leads the practice, specialising in litigation and enforcement proceedings, including insolvency cases. Associate Natalie Roff is also recommended.
Practice head(s):
Donna Goddard
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They are a great team, run by Donna Goddard, who is a very organised manager and a credit to Boyes Turner.’
‘Personal touch, professional, great advice at every stage of proceedings.’
‘Donna Goddard – very efficient and immensely experienced.’
Key clients
The Credit Protection Association Plc
Blick Rothenberg Limited
Simplicity Energy Limited
Summit Platforms Ltd
Chaneys
MLG Associates
FTI Consulting Ltd
Enterprise Security Distribution
FAAC UK Ltd
GLH Hotels Management UK Ltd
Work highlights
- Advising Simplicity Energy on the pursuit of various debts owed by energy customers.
- Advised the shareholders of CPA Management Services in relation to liquidating a debtor company.
- Advised the liquidator for Margolis Silver on recovering a portfolio of book debts.
Public sector Tier 3
The education team at Boyes Turner is headed up by Laxmi Patel in Reading. She founded the department in 2014 and has a notable focus on special educational needs (SEN). The team is known for providing 'a compassionate yet commercial offering' and 'an exceptional service in appealing education, health and care plans'. The team also includes associate Rachael Allison, SEN specialist Rachel Baxter and solicitor Lydia Dunford; together, they regularly work together on a range of sensitive and complex cases.
Practice head(s):
Laxmi Patel
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Laxmi Patel has a calm and measured approach. She communicates well with parents and instils confidence in others.’
‘Rachel Allison was a godsend to our family. I can imagine that many disabled children are now getting an education they deserve because of Rachel.’
‘Laxmi Patel and her team didn’t let us down. Laxmi was so important in helping our family. She was a rock in a stormy sea.’
‘Caring and attentive with an unbiased approach to guide their clients to make the best informed decision that they can for their child.’
‘Laxmi Patel and the team offer an exceptional service in appealing Education Health and Care Plans. The team provide a compassionate yet commercial offering and provide Deputies with the clarity and understanding of what is needed both in respect of why any appeal is in the client’s best interest, but also a clear explanation of the likely costs and benefits.’
‘Boyes Turner’s team is made up of passionate professionals who are empathetic, highly skilled and knowledgeable with regard to Education and SEN Law. The solicitors are extremely experienced in their field and work efficiently and effectively to support their clients through what often is a highly emotional and difficult time.’
‘Rachael Allison is an extremely competent solicitor who is knowledgeable and incisive. She has a particularly strength in communication and liaising with expert witnesses.’
‘Lydia Dunford is extremely thorough and thoughtful in her approach.’
Private client > Court of protection Tier 3
Boyes Turner specialises in managing the property and affairs of those who lack capacity. The majority of its clients are high-net-worth and the team has a particular specialism in helping children who have suffered catastrophic brain injuries where there is a substantial claim for compensation that is needed for their care and treatment. The group also advises on issues such as statutory wills, gifts and other applications to the Court of Protection. Ruth Meyer leads the team. Jemma Garside is now at Kingsley Napley LLP. Alexander Wright has been promoted to the partnership.Practice head(s):
Ruth Meyer
Other key lawyers:
Alexander Wright; Charlene Hughes
Testimonials
‘Really committed to its clients and offering a full service. Ruth Meyer and Alexander Wright. Alexander is a real rising star with an excellent reputation. His work is commendable. Ruth is excellent with clients and has grown a significant team‘.
‘Boyes Turner explained everything about the complexities involved in court proceedings. It was efficient and there was clarity. Alexander Wright explained everything in great detail and guided us through the complexities of the court proceedings in a very professional manner‘.
‘Very efficient and caring service that supports clients and facilitates the process of COP access. Very up to date in terms of legislation. Offers an all round supportive service. Ruth Meyer; Charlene Hughes‘.
‘Experienced Team. Ruth Meyer is the stand out member of the team‘.
‘From my experience with the Court of protection team at Boyes Turner it is very client focused and very supportive of clients. The lawyers are very proactive and responsive to their clients needs. Ruth Meyer provides a seamless service to clients, very supportive and always responsive to the clients’ needs‘.
‘Very well organised. Great team work with good leadership. Understand clients’ needs. Good use of technology and generally a model legal practice. Alexander Wright has been a rising star for a number of years. He has this year been appointed a Partner and there can be no better person to be so appointed. He has great technical skills but also great emotional intelligence with both clients and his legal team‘.
‘The Team is very client focused and gives a high level of attention. The lawyers are meticulous in the level of detail in all aspects of work and highly professional. Ruth Meyer heads up the team and is very committed to her clients and works tirelessly to ensure they receive the best service possible. Charlene Hughes is also a very diligent solicitor and a pleasure to deal with‘.
‘Very knowledgeable team that works together to provide a very positive outcome for clients. Alexander Wright and Ruther Meyer stand out as a class act with very detailed knowledge of their subject. No stone gets left unturned in pursuit of the clients’ needs‘.
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 4
Led by Paul Lowery, Boyes Turner deals with estate administration, preparation of wills and estate planning for high net worth individuals. Senior associate Ally Tow is 'exceptional' and leads on the firm’s growing contentious trusts and probate work.
Practice head(s):
Paul Lowery
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Well-established firm with excellent client relationships.’
‘We have belief that those we have dealt with are diligent and function with complete integrity – they are always polite, open and considerate.’
‘This is a high quality, innovative team delivering the kind of work and client service normally only experienced from niche London specialist private client firms. Intelligent, accessible, hardworking and capable of handling the esoteric while being approachable and client friendly. ’
‘Ally Tow is exceptional. I often recommend her to friends, clients and other legal professionals. She is never fazed, can handle all types of clients and inspire confidence, is always prepared to get stuck in, deadlines are never a problem and she is both innovative and prepared to take on unusual issues. She exhibits the perfect degree of robustness without straying into aggression or unnecessary confrontation. ’
‘The firm has a strong trusts and probate practice, with a good home counties client base.’
Boyes Turner > Firm Profile
Boyes Turner is one of the UK’s most vibrant and outstanding, full-service regional heavyweight law firms.
The firm: Located in the Thames Valley, we are a regional UK law firm with an impressive international reach. The expertise of our teams is considerable, spanning both corporate world and the technology sector whilst also assisting private clients. In the commercial sphere, our lawyers regularly work with some of the world’s most exciting start-ups and largest multinationals.
The firm has particular expertise in the global technology and innovation sector, a nationally prominent claims group, and expert teams covering leisure and hospitality, development and house building. Committed to strong organic growth, the firm is able to use its geographic location to attract lawyers and support staff of the very highest calibre to service a client base which would sit comfortably with leading City and other national firms.
Types of work undertaken
Claims: the firm has a nationally recognised claims group, with solicitors on specialist panels for the Law Society, APIL, AVMA, Headway and Spinal Injuries Association. It has expertise in complex personal injury work and clinical negligence claims, including birth accidents, head injuries and spinal injuries.
Commercial: the commercial group provides advice on agency and distribution strategies, commercial and trading agreements, outsourcing agreements, protection and commercialisation of IP, regulation and competition, joint ventures and partnering, branding, media and marketing law, as well as data protection issues.
Corporate: the corporate group handles UK and cross-border mergers and acquisitions, buy-outs, disposals, joint ventures, partnership law, corporate governance, reorganisations and shareholder agreements.
Dispute resolution: the dispute resolution group is a leading commercial litigation services provider. The group acts for regional, national and international clients covering the full range of dispute services with a focus on the technology and international sectors. All members of the group have individual service specialisms and are leaders in their field, but a common thread is the group’s commitment to excellence in service delivery and a focus on delivering first-class commercial outcomes, whether through litigation, arbitration or alternative dispute resolution methods.
Employment: the employment group provides a comprehensive service tailored to individual clients’ needs on all contentious and non-contentious aspects of employment law and personnel matters. It also provides an HR consultancy service to help businesses cope with some of the more time-consuming tasks which they encounter on a daily basis.
Family/matrimonial: the specialist family law team advises individuals and families with a wide range of family law issues including divorce, separation, divorce under Islamic Law, financial arrangements, arrangements for children and pro-active agreements. The team also offers a range of ground-breaking joint services for separating couples.
Industrial disease: the firm’s significant industrial disease practice focuses on high-value asbestos-related disease litigation work, recovering maximum compensation for claimants.
Insolvency and corporate recovery: the business support and insolvency group includes a licensed insolvency practitioner and is one of the most highly rated in the UK. It acts for a wide range of clients in a number of industries and works closely with leading accountants and IPs, as well as banks and other professional advisers.
International: Boyes Turner provides advice and assistance on all aspects of inward investment into the Thames Valley and Europe, where the firm’s membership of LawRope provides clients with high-calibre, pan-European legal advice. It also assists its international clients by project managing cross-border transactions.
Private client: the firm advises high-net-worth individuals on wills, inheritance tax planning, probate and trusts.
Property: the commercial property group has substantial experience of all aspects of commercial property work, including landlord and tenant, land development and sales, as well as construction and environmental issues. Notably, it has its own dedicated planning team. It also offers residential conveyancing services.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Corporate | Kate Eavis | ||
Clinical negligence | Susan Brown | ||
Commercial property | Nick Carter | ||
Construction | Rowan Turrall | ||
Dispute resolution - property | Russell May | ||
Corporate recovery | Phil Smith | ||
Debt Collection | Donna Goddard | ||
Dispute resolution – commercial | Rowan Turrall | ||
Dispute resolution – property | Russell May | ||
Education | Laxmi Patel | ||
E-commerce | Mark Blunden | ||
Employment | Barry Stanton | ||
Family/ Matrimonial | Paul Linsell | ||
Housing associations | Derek Ching | ||
Immigration | Chris Harber | ||
Industrial disease | Kim Milan | ||
Intellectual property | Mark Blunden | ||
IT | Mark Blunden | ||
Personal injury | Kim Milan | ||
Private client | Paul Lowery | ||
Property development | Derek Ching | ||
Property finance | Mark Appleton |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Rachael Allison | Rachael is an Associate within the Education team. Her experience extends to… | View Profile |
![]() | Mark Appleton | Mark is a partner in the commercial property team and has over… | View Profile |
![]() | Stephen Baker | Stephen is a partner in the dispute resolution team with over twenty… | View Profile |
![]() | Rachel Baxter | Rachel has joined the education team as a SEN Specialist, helping children… | View Profile |
![]() | Mark Blunden | He leads the Boyes Turner Corporate & Technology team providing guidance to… | View Profile |
![]() | Rachel Brown | Rachel has worked in debt recovery and dispute resolution for over 25… | View Profile |
![]() | Susan Brown | Susan leads the CN team at Boyes Turner and has specialised in… | View Profile |
![]() | Nick Carter | Nick is the head of the highly regarded Commercial Property Group and… | View Profile |
![]() | Derek Ching | Derek is a highly experienced partner in the property department at Boyes… | View Profile |
![]() | Chris Dobson | Chris advises clients on a broad range of corporate transactional and general… | View Profile |
![]() | Lydia Dunford | Lydia Dunford is a Solicitor in Boyes Turner’s Education team. She has… | View Profile |
![]() | Kate Eavis | Kate is an experienced corporate lawyer and advises businesses ranging from young… | View Profile |
![]() | Michael Farrier | Michael’s practice covers all aspects of contentious and non-contentious employment law, although… | View Profile |
![]() | Oliver Fitzpatrick | Oliver is a Partner and an integral part of the market-leading and… | View Profile |
![]() | Donna Goddard | Donna heads up the Debt recovery team. The team works closely with… | View Profile |
![]() | Helen Goss | Helen is a partner in the firm’s Employment team and heads up… | View Profile |
![]() | Jonathan Grigg | Jonathan is Managing Partner at Boyes Turner. He is responsible for the… | View Profile |
![]() | Katie Harris | Katie is an associate solicitor and has over 10 years’ experience working… | View Profile |
![]() | Darryn Harris | Darryn joined Boyes Turner in March 2020 and is an associate solicitor in… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Linsell | Paul is a partner and heads up the specialist family law team… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Lowery | Paul is a partner in the firm’s Reading based Wealth Protection team. He specialises… | View Profile |
![]() | Laura Magson | With over 15 years of specialist experience representing people with mesothelioma, Laura… | View Profile |
![]() | Julie Marsh | As a Partner within Boyes Turner’s outstanding medical negligence group, Julie enjoys… | View Profile |
![]() | Russell May | Russell is a senior associate – solicitor and head of the firm’s… | View Profile |
![]() | Ruth Meyer | Ruth is a partner and the head of the highly regarded Court… | View Profile |
![]() | Kim Milan | Kim Milan leads Boyes Turner’s highly regarded personal injury team. A specialist in… | View Profile |
![]() | Richard Money-Kyrle | As a partner in Boyes Turner’s outstanding medical negligence team. Richard is… | View Profile |
![]() | William Nassau-Lake | William has over 20 years’ experience of advising on a variety of… | View Profile |
![]() | Laxmi Patel | Laxmi Patel leads Boyes Turner’s leading Education team. An expert in special… | View Profile |
![]() | James Quinn | James is a director in the dispute resolution team and is experienced… | View Profile |
![]() | Claire Roantree | As a partner in Boyes Turner’s highly regarded personal injury team, Claire… | View Profile |
![]() | Natalie Roff | Natalie has worked exclusively in non-contested debt recovery since 1996 and manages the… | View Profile |
![]() | Phil Smith | Phil leads the firm’s Business Support & Insolvency service – Phil acts… | View Profile |
![]() | Barry Stanton | Barry leads the highly regarded Employment team at Boyes Turner. He advises… | View Profile |
![]() | Claire Taylor-Evans | Claire is a Senior Associate in the Employment law team and also… | View Profile |
![]() | Ally Tow | Ally is a senior associate – chartered legal executive in the firm’s… | View Profile |
![]() | Rowan Turrall | Rowan is a partner and has been advising on a wide range… | View Profile |
![]() | Vanessa Wand | As a senior associate-solicitor in Boyes Turner’s outstanding medical negligence team, Vanessa… | View Profile |
![]() | Sarah Way | Sarah is a senior associate – solicitor in the property team and… | View Profile |
![]() | Andrew Whiteaker | Andy is a partner in the highly regarded Employment team at Boyes… | View Profile |
![]() | Alexander Wright | Alexander is a Partner and professional deputy for property and affairs and… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 25 Number of other UK fee-earners : 60DIVERSITY
We are respectful, open and supportive. We value diverse ideas, perspectives and experiences. In fact, the smooth running of our business and our innovation depends on our colleagues having a wide range of skills, mind-sets and experience.
Everyone at Boyes Turner has a part to play, a valuable viewpoint and ideas that matter.
Increasing the diversity of our workforce and ensuring that we are representative of our clients and community is important to us. This is not about creating a policy that gathers dust in a drawer. This is about taking action and continually striving to improve.
Change is being driven by our people. Working parties, with colleagues from across the business, are focussing on the four strands that form our three-year equality, diversity and inclusion strategy:
- Awareness through education and training: We will rethink workplace diversity, learn what diversity is, why it matters and how to develop a diverse workplace.
- Workforce diversity:We will recruit from a diverse group of candidates to increase diversity of thinking and perspective.
- Workplace inclusion: Our aim is to continue to keep workforce attrition below 12% by fostering a culture that encourages collaboration, flexibility and fairness that will allow our employees to contribute to the firm’s initiatives and develop their own skills and experience to their full potential.
- Sustainability and accountability:We will achieve sustainable workplace diversity by embedding equality, diversity and inclusion policies and practices. We will equip our leaders with the ability to manage diversity and hold them accountable for the results.
Client Testimonials
Client: Boyes Turner Client
Testimonial: “Very Professional ”
Boyes Turner helped me through one of the toughest times in my life. They were very professional whilst remaining friendly. At times the process was emotionally tough but they were very patient with me and went through everything with me until I understood it. I cannot recommend them enough.
Client: Boyes Turner Client
Testimonial: You have been very helpful and professional all the way through. We are delighted that this property could be purchased over a tight deadline. I will have no hesitation in recommending your services.
Client: M – Boyes Turner Client
Testimonial: “It has been a long battle but we got there in the end”
I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to you and your team for all your hard work, passion, dedication and professionalism which resulted in my successful claim. It has been a long battle but we got there in the end. Whatever happens in the future I now have the financial security that I deserve for myself and my family. I can now focus on my health and happiness.
Client: John Griffith
Company/Firm: Culligan International Company
Testimonial: ‘We have formed a partnership with Boyes Turner, instead of an arm’s length business relationship, and the result is that a deeper trust with Boyes Turner has developed over the years. We know they have our best interests in mind, and they know we come to them for all things outside of the USA.’
Student (The Lex 100 )
The Lex 100 Verdict
‘Friendly firm’ Boyes Turner boasts a ‘variety of work across numerous practice areas and good client contact’. ‘Leading a client meeting’ and ‘assisting on a personal injury claim where the client had been in a life-changing car accident’ are examples of work trainees can expect at the Reading firm. Recruits speak of an ‘excellent work/life balance; we generally don’t have to work late and there is no pressure or expectation to work past normal office hours’. It therefore comes as no surprise that the firm is top of the Lex 100 winner table in this category. Respondents were impressed by the assessment day, where ‘the other trainees were really friendly and spoke very highly of everyone at the firm’. Two more Lex 100 winner gongs have been awarded for social life and vacation scheme. Trainees reminisced about the ‘Friday night drinks (pre-pandemic) which were a great chance to meet other people in the firm and a great way to chat with partners’. There is also a monthly book club, regular theatre trips and sporting activities! Back at their desks, trainees are happy to ‘have a lot of client contact and involvement with high-quality fee-earning work’. As with any firm, it’s not all sunshine and roses at Boyes Turner; we heard that ‘they aren’t always great at taking into consideration your seat preferences; this is often allocated due to business need’. Diversity and inclusion could be improved and ‘adapting to remote working and trying to get the same client exposure’ has been difficult. To work at a firm which has a ‘great team spirit’ and where ‘all lawyers are approachable’, take a closer look at Boyes Turner.- Employment > Employment: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant
- Real estate > Commercial property: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms