Firm Profile > Charles Russell Speechlys LLP > London, England

Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has been involved in some of the largest and most high-profile cases domestically and offshore including a heavily contested hearing overseas and a privately heard matter for a very well-known person in the English Court of Protection. It has also been involved in the recently published decision of Cowan v Foreman. There is a particular focus on attracting complex high-value cross-border disputes work often involving multiple jurisdictions. Graeme Kleiner heads the team and advises trustees, executors and beneficiaries on a broad range of disputes. In addition Kleiner has a growing practice in IFA disputes and also handles fraud and professional negligence cases relating to trust, tax and succession matters. Other key team members include Duncan Elson, Tamasin Perkins, Aimee West, Oliver Auld and Jessica Stafford.

Family Tier 1

Under the leadership of Sarah Higgins, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has a focus on high-value and multi-jurisdictional cases. The excellent team covers a wide range of specialist areas in family law from complex divorce and finance cases through to international children related cases under the Children Act and the Hague Convention. Other areas of expertise lie in advising on adoption, surrogacy, civil partnerships and drafting marital agreements. In addition the team has a detailed knowledge of onshore and offshore trust structures and complex family business structures. Another focus of the practice is advising people in the sports and media sectors – it acts for premier league footballers as well as other sports and media professionals. Sarah Anticoni has a particular focus on mediating complex financial claims and children related matters. It remains a solid team despite a number of departures.

M&A: smaller deals, up to £50m Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP covers corporate M&A, private equity and equity capital markets work, primarily within the lower and mid-market space. The firm's focus on private wealth means the team is most active in advising entrepreneurs and owner-managed businesses, as well as family offices and high net worth individuals, both from the UK and overseas. It has also seen notable growth in acting on inbound investment from the US to the UK, in addition to increased activity in Africa. The firm's corporate M&A team works in tandem with its private equity team, with certain individuals spanning both practices. The 'superb' Malcolm MacDougall is one such individual - he co-heads the practice alongside Chris Putt, a specialist in corporate finance.

Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP fields a large team that advises the wealthiest families globally and routinely advises them on complex cross-border and multidisciplinary projects. Clients range from prominent UK families to internationally mobile wealthy individuals. The London offering in conjunction with its other offices in Cheltenham and Guildford also represents some of the UK's leading landed estates (both rural and urban). Bart Peerless and William Begley head the team. Robert Blower has particular expertise in lifetime tax and estate planning, and issues relating to offshore assets/trusts as well as UK landed estates. Piers Master has a particular focus on Middle Eastern clients, and acts for many ruling family members and billionaires often with US links.

Residential property Tier 1

Sport Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP’s large sports practice, which gained a significant boost through its merger with leading sports boutique Couchmans in 2018, acts for international governing bodies, Premier League football clubs, sportspeople, e-sports companies, broadcasters, media and betting companies. The team’s wide-ranging expertise spans regulatory matters, governance, data and IP, media rights, commercial agreements, private investment and contentious matters such as anti-doping investigations and employment disputes. Sports marketing partner Jason Saiban is retained by Nike to manage all of the brand’s legal needs in relation to sports law; work this year has included advising Nike on sponsorship and commercial agreements with the FA and Chelsea FC and handling numerous promotions for Nike’s Brand and Digital teams, including influencer deals. Partner Darren Bailey, a specialist in governance and commercial sports law, advised the International Tennis Federation on its contract with Kosmos Investments to restructure the Davis Cup, assisting with every stage of this groundbreaking multi-billion investment deal. Mark Hill, who specialises in commercial branding and structuring, joined the firm’s Dubai office in 2018. Couchmans founder Nic Couchman is also highly regarded for sports business and rights law.

Agriculture and estates Tier 2

Through its offices in Cheltenham, London and Guildford, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP represents some of the UK’s leading landed estates. The multi-disciplinary group advises on a myriad of issues from tax and estate planning on land sales/transfers, to providing agricultural law advice to land agents in relation to farms and rural businesses. The team also advises on family law matters as well as on all aspects of heritage assets and valuable art works. Henry Fea heads the rural businesses and landed estates team and specialises in heritage property taxation advice for the owners of landed estates and the administration of complex estates. Bart Peerless is another key member of the team who is well-regarded for his succession and estate planning advice for substantial landowners.

Art and cultural property Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has been expanding its team with the recent additions of Tim  Maxwell and Rudy Capildeo from Boodle Hatfield LLP. Head of team Suzanne Marriott has considerable experience in advising individuals, landed estates and charitable trusts with sizeable art work as part of their assets. Art litigator Ludovic de Walden is another key member of the team that frequently handles a wide range of both contentious and non-contentious art matters. The practice is also renowned for its experience on complex cross-border issues. Robert Blower is another recommended member of the team who specialises in lifetime tax and estate planning for individuals, their trusts and companies. Blower has carried out a great deal of UK heritage tax work.

Brand management Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP acts for a diverse range of brand owners in the  media, sports, retail, and food and drink industries; Nike, wagamama and World Rowing are among its active clients. The arrival of Nick White and his team from Couchmans LLP has significantly bolstered the brand management practice, particularly in the sports and leisure arena, with further expertise in licensing and franchising, e-commerce, broadcasting and marketing. Mary Bagnall leads on the soft IP side and is particularly noted for her extensive experience in the protection and enforcement of trade marks and design rights; she is continuing to act for Cadbury in attempting to trade mark its iconic purple packaging against opposition from Nestle. Kate O'Rouke moved to Mewburn Ellis LLP.

Charities and not-for-profit Tier 2

Under the leadership of Lynn Povey at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP the team continues to represent high-profile national and international charities on the full range of legal issues including fundraising, data protection and employment matters. The team’s private wealth team also assists with various issues such as the establishment of charitable trusts and other philanthropic ventures. The group routinely advises private clients on making large charitable donations and on the establishment of charitable foundations. Mike Scott acts for a large number of charities that are governed by Royal Charter. Newly promoted partner Sarah Rowley advises on governance structures and on other matters such as the relationship between charities and commercial partners.

Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 2

The team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP was recently bolstered by the arrivals of Melville Rodrigues and David Paxton from CMS and Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP respectively. Rodrigues joined as head of the real estate funds team, while Paxton has bolstered the team’s development transaction offering. International and domestic institutional private investors, HNWs, asset managers and property funds routinely instruct the team for matters including urban renewal and mixed-use developments, PRS schemes and modular housing. The corporate occupier workload includes disposals, acquisitions, HQ relocations, exit strategies, restructuring, sales and leasebacks as well as portfolio management. Mark Smith heads the practice which includes recommended senior associate Eddie Richards, a specialist in secure lending and development projects. The group, which is highly regarded for its sector expertise, provides expert understanding of the charities, education, retail and leisure, healthcare and residential markets.

Court of protection Tier 2

The team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP works across a large geographical area through its offices in London and Guildford. Suzanne Marriott is a member of Solicitors for the Elderly and the STEP special interest group on mental capacity. Sally Ashford is also a member of the STEP special interest group on mental capacity. Marriott specialises in cross-border and UK mental capacity and Court of Protection work as well as tax planning, wills, trusts and other contentious trusts and probate matters. She regularly acts as the independent deputy for property and affairs and health and welfare cases in situations where the family is in dispute about residency and the tax implications of losing non-UK residency and domicile.

Employment: senior executives Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's practice is spearheaded by Nick Hurley, who handles both contentious and advisory employment law issues. Also notable are project management expert Trevor Bettany, corporate employment lawyer Michael Powner, charity and not-for-profit sector specialist David Green and Emma Bartlett. In recent highlights, the group provided TUPE and related collective bargaining advice to an international retailer to avoid UK-wide industrial action, and also helped a surgeon to secure his reappointment following his dismissal from one of the UK’s largest NHS trusts.

Family: mediation Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has nine partners who are trained mediators and many of the team are collaboratively trained. Sarah Anticoni is a skilled family mediator in both finance and children. Sarah Whitten is also well-regarded for her work as a successful mediator. Its mediation practice covers a wide range of specialist areas in family law including high-value divorce and finance cases through to international children related cases and civil partnerships.

Fraud: civil Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is adept at handling a range of civil fraud matters, including asset tracing and worldwide freezing orders. The firm works with clients including multinational businesses, regulators, professional advisers and high-net-worth individuals in sectors such as financial services, government, energy and natural resources. Stewart Hey, who heads the practice was admitted to the Cayman Bar in relation to the high-profile, multibillion-dollar AHAB/SAAD Cayman trial. Charlotte Pender has a track record on high-value cross-border banking and fraud cases.

Healthcare Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's healthcare team is made up of 'highly accomplished lawyers with strong expertise' across a broad range of healthcare-related matters, notably in corporate and real estate transactional and financing work, and private equity investments in and buyouts of healthcare service providers, with key expertise in care homes, primary care and pharmacy law. Noel Wardle is the key figure for healthcare and pharmacy regulatory advice, while Tim Jenkins supports public sector and family-owned dental, veterinary and pharmacy businesses in corporate and commercial transactions. Michael Lingens is likewise recommended for financial transactions in the healthcare and care home space. David Reissner retired in May 2018.

Media and entertainment (including media finance) Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP offers expertise across advertising, marketing, film, TV, gaming, social media, interactive content, music, sports, publishing and theatre work. The team's advertising and marketing department is a core focus, where it is instructed by a number of household-name brands, media agencies and celebrities on sponsorship, influencer engagement, copy clearance, ASA compliance, disputes, brand partnerships and media buying agreements, as well as digital, social media and consumer matters. For gaming, social media and interactive content, the team is engaged by global publishers and games studios, and it is increasingly active in the esports arena. Senior associate Jaclyn Wilkins specialises in digital media and gaming matters. The film and TV practice is engaged by independent UK broadcasters and it is experienced in sports rights and media rights matters.

Property litigation Tier 2

Handling commercial and residential property litigation, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP acts for an extensive client roster, including commercial investors, developers and high-net-worth individuals as well as commercial, retail and leisure occupiers. The 'proactive and commercially aware' team led by Robert Highmore has a specialism in leasehold enfranchisement and, based on its expertise in the Electronic Communications Code, telecommunications sector work. Handling regeneration projects and rights to light matters are other key areas of expertise as are dilapidation claims, rent reviews and service charge disputes. The recommended Emma Humphreys handles the full range of commercial and residential property matters including contractual and development disputes involving the removal of telecoms masts and communications cables.

Commercial contracts Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP provides commercial support for clients ranging from international brands and specialist public tech companies to financial institutions and tech solution providers. The firm has regional and international reach, including in Switzerland and Dubai. Jason Saiban leads the practice and focuses on the sport, retail and technology sectors. He can call on the expertise of Megan Paul, who specialises in complex outsourcing transactions in domestic and global markets. Also notable is associate Caroline Swain, who works closely with retail clients. The team advises Nike on commercial contracts, including sponsorship, sports marketing, regulatory and data protection issues.

Commercial property: development Tier 3

The team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP was recently bolstered by the arrivals of Melville Rodrigues and David Paxton from CMS and Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP respectively. Rodrigues joined as head of the real estate funds team, while Paxton has bolstered the team’s development transaction offering. International and domestic institutional private investors, HNWs, asset managers and property funds routinely instruct the team for matters including urban renewal and mixed-use developments, PRS schemes and modular housing. The corporate occupier workload includes disposals, acquisitions, HQ relocations, exit strategies, restructuring, sales and leasebacks as well as portfolio management. Mark Smith heads the practice which includes recommended senior associate Eddie Richards, a specialist in secure lending and development projects. The group, which is highly regarded for its sector expertise, provides expert understanding of the charities, education, retail and leisure, healthcare and residential markets.

Commercial property: investment Tier 3

The team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP was recently bolstered by the arrivals of Melville Rodrigues and David Paxton from CMS and Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP respectively. Rodrigues joined as head of the real estate funds team, while Paxton has bolstered the team’s development transaction offering. International and domestic institutional private investors, HNWs, asset managers and property funds routinely instruct the team for matters including urban renewal and mixed-use developments, PRS schemes and modular housing. The corporate occupier workload includes disposals, acquisitions, HQ relocations, exit strategies, restructuring, sales and leasebacks as well as portfolio management. Mark Smith heads the practice which includes recommended senior associate Eddie Richards, a specialist in secure lending and development projects. The group, which is highly regarded for its sector expertise, provides expert understanding of the charities, education, retail and leisure, healthcare and residential markets.

Construction: contentious Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's contentious team advises contractors, subcontractors and employers on both domestical and international matters. Steven Carey heads up the team, working alongside the 'unflappable' Kevin Forsyth, who recently advised a cladding contractor on defect-related disputes arising from the construction of tower blocks in Manchester. Rupa Lakha, a specialist in dispute avoidance, acts for developers and subcontractors, while Michael O’Connor, who acts across the spectrum of construction issues domestically and internationally, is also recommended.

Contruction: non-contentious Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's non-contentious team acts for contractors, developers and user occupiers on residential developments and mixed use developments and energy work. The team is led by Steven Carey who recently advised Permasteelisa on several developments such as Shard Place and Bankside Yards. Fiona Edmond is also a notable name within the team, and has been advising Derwent London on recent developments including Soho Place and the Brunel Building. Edmond has advised commercial developers on office and mixed use developments, hotels and data centres. Duncan Salmon is noted for his work in the regeneration and development sectors, while newly promoted partner James Worthington is also recommended.

Education: schools Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's education team is led by Lynn Povey and is known for its advice to private schools on matters such as mergers, restructurings, data protection and sensitive staff issues. The practice also draws on the expertise of the firm's private wealth team to advise education clients on establishing charitable trusts. Mike Scott has specialist expertise in the area of educational institutions and charities, while newly made-up partner and deputy head of charities Sarah Rowley has advised on a variety of projects for educational institutions.

Emerging markets Tier 3

'The team stands out as being really enthusiastic about the sector, interested in its clients, and motivated to make the transactions work for its clients', remarks one client of Charles Russell Speechlys LLP. The firm acts for large companies, growth companies and family businesses, as well as creators and owners of private wealth, their families and advisers. In emerging markets, it is best known for advising on investments in sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East and the Caribbean, notably in the financial services, real estate, infrastructure and agribusiness sectors. The practice, led by the 'technically very knowledgeable and very solutions-oriented' Adrian Mayer, handles debt and equity transactions for borrowers and lenders, as well as advising on the debt finance elements of private equity and fund investments. Head of financial services Jon Bond and head of the firm's Caribbean group Hamish Perry are also recommended.

Employment: employers Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's practice is spearheaded by Nick Hurley, who handles both contentious and advisory employment law issues. Also notable are project management expert Trevor Bettany, corporate employment lawyer Michael Powner, charity and not-for-profit sector specialist David Green and Emma Bartlett. In recent highlights, the group provided TUPE and related collective bargaining advice to an international retailer to avoid UK-wide industrial action, and also helped a surgeon to secure his reappointment following his dismissal from one of the UK’s largest NHS trusts.

Equity capital markets – small-mid cap Tier 3

Fueled in part by the firm-wide focus on private wealth, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has developed expertise in advising shareholders and growth companies on public company transactions. Led by Andrew Collins, the practice group has relationships with some active nomads and brokers, but its extensive experience acting for corporate issuers across a huge range of industry sectors makes it a particularly attractive choice for companies seeking to grow through the capital markets. Clients have singled out Paul Arathoon as 'an excellent partner, who is very easy to work with'.

Fintech Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's fintech team is particularly invested in the areas of blockchain, regtech and payments technology, where it acts for a wide range of start-ups, software companies, and p2p lending platforms. On the corporate side the group handles sales, management buyouts and private equity fundraising, while on the commercial end it manages contractual arrangements including partnership agreements and software licensing agreements. The team has further expertise acting for cryptocurrency and blockchain developers in the launch of new platforms in the UK and the EU. In a recent matter, financial services regulatory partner William Garner advised Coinbase on various elements of setting up its operations in Europe, including contract negotiations with third party service providers. Mark Bailey, the group's resident technology expert, specialises in IT-sector contracting, cloud computing, outsourcing and data centre operation, and has additional expertise in the area of blockchain technology. Bailey is working with Konsentus to produce a white paper on the impact of PSD2 on the banking sector.

IT and telecoms Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP counts customers and suppliers of IT services, and leading telecoms operators among its client roster. It handles a range of corporate, commercial and contentious matters with particular experience in the retail and financial services sectors, and the computer games industry. Mark Bailey, who focuses on technology and infrastructure matters and has particular expertise in IT sector contracts and data centre projects, jointly leads the team with corporate transactions partner Mark Howard. Megan Paul also handles a range of outsourcing agreements, and Paul Stone is a specialist in EU and competition issues.

Listed funds Tier 3

'Always available, pleasant to deal with and clear at communicating' is how one client describes Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's investment funds department, which is jointly led by Jonathan Bayliss  and Keir Gordon. The group was strengthened by the addition of real estate funds expert Melville Rodrigues, who joined from CMS in April 2018. A varied client list is a key feature of the practice, which regularly assists both major institutional fund management groups and smaller boutique managers. The firm's charity-sector group works hand-in-hand with the funds practice, attracting a number of charity fund managers. Victoria Younghusband is recommended for her 'extremely responsive manner'.

Private equity: transactions – mid-tier – up to £250m Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP works with a roster of buyout house clients such as Elysian Capital, which Malcolm MacDougall and senior associate Chris Manning advised on its acquisition of Key Travel. In addition to investment houses, the firm also acts for management teams, investee companies and  high net-worth family offices. Venture capital and growth capital PE are some other key areas of activity. Adam Crossley, who advised the management team on the £1.2bn sale of MRH to Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, is another name to note. McDougall heads up the practice together with Adrian Mayer.

Professional discipline Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP 'has years of experience in this sector, with a deep understanding of the relevant regulatory regimes'. The healthcare team is best known for its advice to pharmacists and pharmacy owners; it also assists doctors and dentists with professional discipline matters. The practice is also highly regarded for its advice to sports governing bodies on disciplinary proceedings. Noel Wardle in Guildford heads the healthcare regulatory team and London's Edward Craig has niche expertise in equine matters, including horse racing and polo, and legal director Rachel Warren has particular expertise in advising clients appearing before the Fitness to Practise panels of the GPC, GMC and NHS Performance and Fitness to Practise committees. David Reissner retired from the firm.

Reputation management Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP fields a team with unique knowledge of the commercial television sector led by the 'incredibly helpful' Duncan Lamont. The 'absolutely brilliant' firm acts for claimants and defendants alike and therefore boasts a genuine understanding of both sides of the table. Senior associate Claire Greaney, who is also admitted to practise as a barrister and solicitor in New Zealand, provides key support in on-going phone hacking litigation and regularly assists businesses in GDPR-compliant reactions to data breaches. Matters or clients with a sports aspect are often covered by associate Hannah Kent.

Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 4

Private banking and wealth specialist Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has experience in a range of financial services work, including regulated lending, structured products and matters with a cross-border element. Jonathan Bayliss leads the practice and has a particular focus on advising institutional clients. He can call on the expertise of Kate Troup, who handles investment management and private banking issues; and William Garner, who leads the firm’s broking, trading and markets practice.

Partnership Tier 4

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's team has strength in the financial services, professional practices and property development sectors. Non-contentious work includes transactional, corporate, tax structuring matters and change management, which bring together expertise from other departments in the firm. The group is also noted for handling disputes both for partnerships and individual partners. Financial services expert David Hicks leads the team, utilising experience in complex structures, conversions to and transactions involving LLPs, governance issues and restructuring.

Pensions (non-contentious) Tier 4

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP counts a number of high-profile charities, not-for-profits and livery companies on its client list, alongside a number of key trustees, sponsors and individual scheme members. Recent highlights for the team include assisting with scheme buy-outs, scheme rule interpretations, governance reviews, restructurings, corporate acquisitions, risk reduction and regulatory advice. Practice head Michael Jones’ private client offering focuses on issues surrounding pension transfers, fixed protection issues and overpayment issues. Jones also receives praise for his expertise in auto-enrolment matters.

Planning Tier 4

The planning team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has recently enjoyed a solid flow of London-based mixed-use development and regeneration projects for an expanding client base of commercial clients, developers, property managers, and housebuilders. Claire Fallows has niche expertise with handling the challenges facing the retirement living space with a number of major new projects included on the mandate portfolio. Helen Hutton has significant experience in the field of hydrocarbon planning. A significant client, the Church Commissioners for England, has instructed the team on a wide suite of matters that have encompassed urban extensions and garden village projects.

Power (including electricity, nuclear and renewables) Tier 4

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is best known for its corporate, commercial and project advisory skills, particularly in the waste energy and offshore wind sectors. Key partners in the team are construction specialist Kevin Forsyth, the corporate finance-focused Chris Putt and commercial lawyer David Berry. The practice was bolstered in 2018 by the arrival of associate Edidem Basiekanem, who has brought experience of private M&A and private equity transactions in Africa.

Commercial litigation Tier 5

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP 'has an excellent understanding of its clients' objectives and their industries'. The team advises on complex, high-value corporate and commercial disputes for clients that range from multinational corporations to high-net-worth individuals. Recent cases include disputes in the technology, telecoms, financial services, mining, energy, aviation and retail sectors. Stewart Hey, Edward Craig, John Sykes and Rhys Novak are all highly rated practitioners; Charlotte Pender was made partner.

Employee share schemes Tier 5

The team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is experienced in both HMRC approved and unapproved share option plan work, including bespoke employee share plans for multinationals. The team has a specialism in advising on the introduction of UK share plans to other jurisdictions and the adjustment of overseas plans, particularly US-based plans, for UK and European operations. James Carter is the key contact. Martin Griffiths left for Addleshaw Goddard.

Intellectual property Tier 5

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's department is singled out for its brand management and disputes expertise, which spans soft IP matters including trade marks, copyrights, designs and internet and advertising issues. Practice head Mary Bagnall has developed notable expertise in the protection and enforcement of non-traditional trade marks including colour or shape marks; she is advising Cadbury on its efforts to protect 'Cadbury purple' as a registered trade mark. Other names to note include Nick White, who excels in the sports, food and beverage, and retail sectors, and Jennifer Pierce, who focuses on technology and brand issues. Trade mark expert Kate O’Rourke left to Mewburn Ellis LLP.

Mining and minerals Tier 5

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP fields a multidisciplinary mining team, comprising capabilities in corporate, commercial, banking, litigation and real estate. Corporate partner Andrew Collins sits at the head of the sector group which covers a wide range of issues including farm-in and farm-out agreements, financing transactions, private placings and IPOs, as well as competition and regulatory matters.

Property finance Tier 5

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP acts for a mix of lenders and borrowers; the firm’s client base includes major banks and private banks, property developers and high-net-worth individuals, and new market entrants such as debt funds and challenger banks. Areas of strength include healthcare, student accommodation, industrial and residential property, and data centre financing. The team also has experience in sharia-compliant transactions. Paul Kay, who counts an increasing number of Asian investors among his clients, leads the team.

Venture capital Tier 5

As part of the firm's overarching private equity capabilities, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP handles a significant amount of work for venture and growth capital investors, as well as investees, across the spectrum of the investment lifecycle (where clients also benefit from the ability to leverage the expertise of lawyers with complementary practice area knowledge in tax, IP and finance). Tapping into the firm's private wealth prowess, the team also has strong market traction among the growing family office investor class, as well as for high-net-worth individuals on their venture capital investments. Chris Putt is a key member of the team whose range of expertise includes traditional venture capital work, as well as venture debt matters. Putt has recently handled numerous matters for Kreos Capital, including its €20m investment in Dutch biopharmaceutical company Kiadis Pharma.

EU and competition Tier 6

The team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP assists clients with merger control issues, market investigations and inquiries, and contentious matters. The department is jointly headed by Paul Henty and Paul Stone, who are both highly praised by clients. The pair have a longstanding client base including telecoms clients, with recent work including handling instructions from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Bahrain as well as Gamma Telecom. Other sectors of focus for the team include media, e-commerce, consumer goods and pharmaceuticals.

Corporate restructuring & insolvency Tier 8

The 'incredibly diligent, knowledgeable and approachable' five-partner team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP 'can deal with everything from complex, cross-border restructuring and insolvency issues to more straightforward, domestic insolvency matters'. Although the firm also handles restructuring and transactional-based matters, it has a particularly strong reputation in relation to contentious insolvency matters, including misfeasance claims brought against directors. Simon Ridpath provides 'very commercial and highly technical advice'.

Immigration

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP handles a spread of immigration work for both individuals and corporate clients. The team is instructed by a raft of high-profile multinational clients on PBS and non-PBS matters, and also utilises its international presence to handle complex immigration issues, often advising Chinese and Russian clients. It is also increasingly acting for US nationals and is instructed by a growing number of start-ups. Advising high-net-worth individuals on personal immigration issues is also a key focus of the department. Team head Rose Carey has a 'wealth of experience' of advising financial services sector clients and handles a raft of sponsor compliance issues. Senior associate Paul McCarthy is experienced in business and personal immigration work; he advises on various PBS visa categories and has advised clients on applications for Tier 2 sponsor licences.

Agriculture and estates Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP covers tax and real estate planning in the context of land sales and purchases. The firm also advises on succession planning, ownership structuring and regulations concerning residential development. Senior associate Tristam van Lawick is experienced in the negotiation of tenancy and partnership agreements. Practice co-head Christopher Page advises estate and private land owners on the legal aspects of strategic investments in the agricultural sector. Clients also include trustees, charities and financial institutions.

Commercial litigation: Kent, Surrey and Sussex Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's Guildford team is hailed for being able to compete with City practices whilst maintaining a personal service and sensible costs. Whether advising large corporates or smaller businesses, Stephen Burns is especially highlighted for these qualities and Jamie Cartwright  is noted for his expertise in the TMT and automotive sectors. The team is home to a number of high-performing associates including  Charlotte Healy, Katy Ackroyd and Katie Bewick.

Commercial litigation: M4 Corridor and Gloucestershire Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's Manoj Vaghela specialises in handling complex insurance disputes, which often have a cross-border flavour. His experience includes Bermuda Form arbitration, cyber liability and D&O cases. The firm's insurance caseload is a mix of insurer, bank and manufacturer-led work, covering sectors such as financial services, construction, engineering, energy and natural resources and TMT. Outside of insurance disputes, the firm is noted for acting for clients in regulatory investigations, shareholder disputes and civil fraud cases. Claudine Morgan is experienced in contractual disputes, professional negligence cases and sale of goods disputes.

Commercial property: M4 Corridor and Gloucestershire Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has a particularly strong profile undertaking strategic land work for landowners, but it also acts for developers as well. The scope of its work in this space includes advising on land promotion, landowner collaboration, the acquisition and sale of sites, the planning process, infrastructure works and land disposals, among other matters. The strategic land team is led by the ‘superb’ Ian Brothwood, who is active in both residential and commercial development schemes. Nigel Morton, who is ‘very experienced in portfolio sales and purchases’, serves as a principal contact for multiple specialist residential funds, national and regional housebuilders, charity investors and corporates. Naomi Nettleton’s practice focuses on property investment, with particular emphasis on the Specialist Supported Living sector. Jonathan Wilkinson and recently promoted senior associate Julie Sharpe are also recommended.

Construction Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's team 'does not disappoint', as is reflected by it generating work from construction sector clients, as well as those active in the healthcare, transport, energy, education and not-for-profit arenas. Practice head David Savage, who is dual-qualified as a solicitor and barrister, is knowledgeable about the gamut of construction issues; he advises on matters arising from the earliest procurement strategy discussions through to dispute avoidance/resolution, the close out of major final accounts. Recently promoted partner Andrew Keeley advises on construction and engineering contracts for commercial and prime residential projects, as well as professional negligence claims.

Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has a strong profile among high net worth individuals. It also handles contentious trusts and probate matters for several not-for-profit organisations; recent work included defending clients against a number of Inheritance Act claims, representing charities in trust disputes, and also acting in a rectification claim and a proprietary estoppel claim. Elsewhere, the group deals with matters involving offshore trust jurisdictions, such as Guernsey, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Duncan Elson heads up the team, which includes Samantha Ewing, who is recommended for complex will validity claims and multifaceted Inheritance Act claims.

Corporate and commercial: M4 Corridor and Gloucestershire Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP handles national and cross-border work for leading companies, including listings, corporate M&A and takeovers. It has notable specialisms in the aviation and renewables industries. In addition, the firm is increasingly active in matters connected with the Middle East and Africa, such as investments and acquisitions. Richard Norton is a key figure in the team.

Employment: Kent, Surrey, Sussex Tier 1

The Charles Russell Speechlys LLP employment, pensions and immigration group is headed by Nick Hurley who is highly rated for contentious work in addition to advising on areas such as reorganisations and business transfers. The team counts an impressive list of international and national companies among its clients with a growing focus on those in the finance and TMT sectors. Ben Smith is in demand for his broad skills in HR matters including redundancies and dismissals and TUPE matters and Andy Williams' ' sound judgement is always valued on all HR issues'. Emily Chalkley is one of a number of associates who also garners appreciation.

Employment: M4 Corridor and Gloucestershire Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP undertakes day to day general HR work, corporate reorganisation advice, business and TUPE transfers, as well as employee tribunal and High Court litigation. Clients range from local SMEs to both national and international corporations. The firm retains an especially strong client base in the retail and leisure, charities and agricultural sectors, acting primarily for employers and high net worth individuals. Practice head Sara Wilson has notable experience in the healthcare sector, as well as a particular interest in advising trusts, charities and family-owned businesses on employment strategy and the enforcement of post-termination restrictions.

Family: Kent, Surrey, Sussex Tier 1

The Charles Russell Speechlys LLP team offers outstanding expertise in challenging children cases including international relocations, child protection  and abuse allegations and domestic and international adoptions. This is in addition to financial disputes over business assets, trusts, pension and tax issues. Karen Wilsher and Shona Alexander lead the team; William Rollin  has a focus on financial disputes side of divorces and the breakdown of civil partnerships and the 'well thought of' Felicity Chapman has significant expertise in areas including nuptial and cohabitation agreements and children and domestic abuse cases. The team is further boosted with the return of Claire Devine  following maternity leave.

Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1

Described as 'an insolvency and restructuring team at the top of their game', Charles Russell Speechlys LLP 's Guilford based team carries out a full range of contentious and non-contentious work, acting for insolvency practitioners, lenders and financial institutions, companies, directors and stakeholders. The team specialises in a number of sectors including pharmacy, retail, sport, private wealth and real estate. James Hyne heads the practice and holds significant international insolvency expertise. Senior associate Daniel Moore is another key name to note.

Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 1

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP combines expertise in family businesses, landed estates, heritage property and international tax. Practice head Christopher Page advises estate and private land owners, family business entrepreneurs and trustees on tax strategy, succession planning. Associate Tabitha Collett assists with asset protective and ownership structures. Julia Cox and Henry Fea count both domestic and foreign residents to their client base.

Property litigation Tier 1

Jointly led by Peter Levaggi and David Haines, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's property litigation department combines 'exceptional legal talent with the sheen of a cheerful can-do attitude'. It generates a regular flow of both commercial and residential landlord and tenant disputes, and also has experience of property insolvency, leasehold enfranchisement and compulsory purchase order claims. Richard Flenley is a name to note.

Banking and finance Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has carved out an excellent reputation handling loan and security transactions for specialist lenders, such as hedge funds and private equity funds. The banking practice also stands out due to its extensive experience of advising on aircraft finance, as well as on loans used to fund projects in the renewables sector. Another distinguishing feature of the department is the cross-border nature of its work, which is facilitated through its special Middle East and African practices. Practice head Richard Norton, who has a substantial international practice, has expertise in Loan Market Association (LMA) documents and swaps. Naomi Nettleton specialises in real estate finance.

Charities and not-for-profit Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP handles the establishment and registration as well as mergers and restructurings of charitable institutions. The practice also assists charities with the sale and purchase of assets, estate tenancy and lease agreements. Associate Penelope Byatt’s areas of expertise include the provision of regulatory advice on constitutional and governance matters. Clients include educational, religious and grant-making charities.

Commercial property: Kent, Surrey, Sussex Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP offers the gamut of real estate expertise to clients across areas including retail and leisure, charities, industrial and energy sectors. Ingrid Saffin has notable experience of complex transactions in the healthcare sector and also advises investors and corporate occupiers. Gavin Partridge joined the team in April 2019 from Mundays LLP.

Corporate and commercial: Kent, Surrey, Sussex Tier 2

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP attracts clients from a broad range of industries and has an impressive roster of healthcare, pharmacy and veterinary clients, as well as private equity houses. It provides a full service in addition to its corporate expertise, working in tandem with its London colleagues. Geoffrey Sparks leads the team; Tim Jenkins is especially noted for his healthcare focus and Catherine Drew's broad corporate expertise includes the healthcare sector. Associate Jonathan Steele is noted for his client handling abilities and practical advice and Rebecca Burford is highly rated.

Personal tax, trusts and probate: Kent, Surrey, Sussex Tier 2

Sally Ashford heads the non-contentious private client team at the 'excellent all round firm' Charles Russell Speechlys LLP and has extensive experience assisting high-net-worth individuals, family business owners in relation to their estates and succession planning, including inheritance tax mitigation and trusts. The practice also undertakes Court of Protection matters including deputyship and statutory will applications and works with colleagues in other practice areas such as corporate, litigation and real estate. It also provides a range of services to major charities including Cancer Research UK. Senior associate Gareth Walliss is noted for his tax and trust planning skills.

Charities and not-for-profit Tier 3

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP advises charitable trusts, charitable incorporated organisations, royal charter companies and community benefit societies on all areas of commercial, employment and real estate matters. The firm has significant experience advising military, religious and educational charities as well acting for individuals on all aspects of charitable giving and philanthropic activities. Guildford- based Duncan Elson is the main contact.

Debt recovery Tier 3

The debt recovery practice of Charles Russell Speechlys LLP sits within the commercial litigation department and focuses on disputed and international debt claims on behalf of clients in the automotive, media, financial services and property sectors, where the team handles contentious matters related to licensing, unpaid fees, finance default and service charge arrears claims. Litigation partner Jamie Cartwright is the lead adviser.

Professional negligence Tier 3

The lawyers in Charles Russell Speechlys LLP's largely claimant-based practice frequently litigate claims against city-based insurers and within the accountancy and financial services sector. Stephen Burns and David Savage are crucial figures in the team and have recently acted for Icon 1992 in a dispute against an insurance broker pertaining to the recovery of sums. Duncan Elson is another name to note, and has vast expertise in trust and estate-based litigation.

Property litigation Tier 4

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP’s team operates nationally and acts for a varied client base in a wide range of property-related disputes. It advises large landed estate clients on adverse interests in land, landlord and tenant matters and issues concerning possession of agricultural holdings. In the commercial property space, recent highlights included lease termination disputes and other disputes connected with property contracts. The group's other strengths are in the retail and the property management sectors, and also in representing private individuals in contentious property matters.

South West > Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate

South West > Private client > Agriculture and estates