Trowers & Hamlins LLP > London, England > Firm Profile

Trowers & Hamlins LLP
3 BUNHILL ROW
LONDON
EC1Y 8YZ
England

Corporate and commercial > M&A: smaller deals, up to £50m Tier 1

Trowers & Hamlins LLP’s corporate team focuses on private company M&A, with particular strength in the healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and leisure sectors. Team head Tim Nye handles a range of commercial transactions in the healthcare sector, including acquisitions, management buyouts and joint ventures. Adrian Jones has a broad corporate practice covering business start-ups, mergers and acquisitions, inward investment, public and private sector joint ventures, group re-structuring, and cross-border deals. Steven Raize specialises in advising on transactions in the recruitment sector and has substantial private equity and M&A experience.

Practice head(s):

Tim Nye

Other key lawyers:

Adrian Jones; Steven Raize; Alison Chivers; Ayda Habboush; Claire Scanlon

Testimonials

‘Value added advice with a practical approach allows us to delegate much of the process as appropriate’

‘Excellent team, available and nimble able to unlock complicated situations.’

‘Excellent team. Alison Chivers is our go-to partner at the firm.’

‘Always available to offer sound advice and guidance.’

‘Alison Chivers and her team offer excellent support and are very prompt in responding to our requests for assistance.’

Key clients

Rosemont Pharmaceuticals Limited

Yes Recycling (Fife) Limited

Rangeford Villages

Andrew Leek and Joanna Jensen

Third.i Group

Apache Capital Partners

M1 Real Estate Limited

Ian Defty of Begbies Traynor (London) LLP (as administrator) for Global Online Health Limited

Aspenway Holdings Limited, ultimately owned by BLME

Caring Homes Group

Swanton Care & Community Limited

Cornerstone Healthcare Devco Limited

Shareholders of Alanto Limited

Midven Limited

Medivet Group Limited

The shareholders of The Flavourworks Group Limited

BACE Surveyors Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Rosemont Pharmaceuticals Limited on its bolt-on acquisition of a portfolio of liquid pharmaceutical products by way of the acquisition of Yorkdale Pharma Liquids Limited from Essential Pharmaceuticals Limited.
  • Advised Recycling (Fife) Limited on the sale of shares by two of the founder shareholders to WM Morrison Supermarket Limited as well as the further equity investment into Yes Recycling (Fife) Limited by WM Morrison Supermarket Limited.
  • Acted for the selling shareholders of Tadley Holdings Limited, the holding company of the Childs Farm group on the sale to PZ Cussons (Holdings) Limited and subsequent reinvestment into the buyer group.

Public sector > Local government Tier 1

Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises a number of local authorities across the country on a wide array of matters, especially those relating to income generation, regeneration projects, housing developments and commercialisation matters. The team also advises on a range of pandemic related issues, including support on commercial arrangements, adjustments to long term regeneration projects and governance and sustainability. Notably, the firm was appointed as the sole legal advisor to Birmingham City Council on all matters related to the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Scott Dorling is the national head of the public sector group, leading on large scale regeneration projects and the establishment of new commercial vehicles. Consultant Helen Randall specialises in pathfinder transactions, joint ventures and PPPs, while Paul McDermott advises on high profile regenerations and housing projects. Associate Victoria Thornton advises on public sector commercial arrangements, including vires and State aid. Experienced public sector housing specialist Ian Doolittle continues to work with the team as a consultant.

Practice head(s):

Scott Dorling

Other key lawyers:

Amardeep Gill; Paul McDermott; Victoria Thornton; Helen Randall; Lucy Doran

Testimonials

‘Scott Dorling understands a lot of what we are trying to achieve and even if the right questions has not been asked Scott makes the effort to get to the heart of the issue and provide excellent and thorough advice.’

‘Paul McDermott: his practical suggestions based on experience are greatly appreciated by my team.

Henna Malik’s hard work and attention to detail when reviewing documentation are are greatly valued by my team.’

‘The level and depth of advice is really exceptional. The client care shown is great. Paul McDermott and Victoria Thornton have been brilliant in supporting our procurement and have done everything asked of them, have delivered on time and to budget and have provided reassurance and objective advice and have taken direction from the client when necessary.’

‘I think Paul McDermott and Victoria Thornton have a fantastic relationship and very well balanced. They understand our concerns and anxieties and are able to address this with solid commercial advice drawing on a depth of experience that is significant. I couldn’t speak highly enough of them and I really enjoy working with them both, without them we wouldn’t have delivered the success we have achieved.’

‘Trowers offer expert and comprehensive commercial legal advice required for the successful negotiation and execution of complex real estate and finance deals involving the public sector.

Scott Dorling: I have always found Scott to be highly knowledgeable who works to understand and assemble the pieces required to sucessfully deliver complex projects, often through innovative structures. You want Scott on your side during difficult negotiations.’

Key clients

Birmingham City Council

Urban Growth Company and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

London Borough of Hillingdon

Kent County Council

West Midlands Combined Authority

Warwickshire County Council

Bath & North East Somerset

Stoke on Trent City Council

Belfast City Council

Central Bedfordshire Council

Gravesham Borough Council and Rosherville Property Development Limited

Southwark Council

Westminster City Council

Gloucester City Council

Guildford Council

Bury Council

Wirral Council

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Work highlights

  • Advise Birmingham City Council in its capacity as Host City for the Commonwealth Games, replacing an existing provider.
  • Working with HS2, Dept for Transport, the “Arden Cross” landowner consortium and public funders to develop the site.
  • Played a “trusted advisor” role for London Borough of Hillingdon across the built environment portfolio: appointed on an ongoing basis to providing strategic procurement, delivery and risk advice across Hillingdon’s portfolio of real estate, procurement and delivery transactions.

Real estate > Social housing: finance Tier 1

As Trowers & Hamlins LLP’s social housing finance practice advises both on the borrowers and lender side, the team acts for all types of market participants, including local authorities, housing associations and for-profit registered providers as well as institutional investors, such as banks, and equity investors. Congruently, the team has ‘excellent experience of the housing sector’ advising on a plethora of matters, such as bond issues, loan facilities and private placements as well as on mergers and housing group re-structures. Katie Dyer and Melanie Comer head the firm’s national real estate finance security offering and Adrian Carter and Neil Waller are the national heads of the banking and finance practice. Eleanor James provides an ‘excellent service‘ to social housing providers in respect to private placements and capital markets issues, among others, and clients feel that the practitioners ‘work extremely well together as a team‘. Sarah Gooden retired in March 2022.

Practice head(s):

Adrian Carter; Neil Waller; Katie Dyer; Melanie Comer

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The firm has excellent experience of the housing sector and understanding of client priorities and strength in depth. They have an excellent breadth of experience and provide excellent advice across all of our activities, enabling us to achieve our objectives. Billing and charges are clear, in line with estimates, and offer good value.’

‘Eleanor James and Neil Waller lead on our work programme, supported by Jane Kirkham – they work extremely well together as a team and continually deliver excellent service and advice to schedule. Their knowledge and approach has helped us to manage risks and opportunities well.’

‘They always go over and above what is agreed and expected and nurture the client relationship while keeping costs very reasonable for the service provided. They are proactive and work diligently to get projects finished in good time, often completing them ahead of deadlines.’

‘The Social Housing Finance team has extensive experience in the social housing sector, which has seen many changes through the years, and more increasing ESG related financing deals. The team is very responsive and knowledgeable.’

Key clients

Aster Group

believe housing

Bernicia Group

bLEND Funding plc

Borrowers’ Advisory Group of MORhomes

Bromford Housing Group

Brighter Places

Cartrefi Conwy Cyf

Catalyst Housing Limited

Clarion Housing Association Limited

Community Gateway Association Limited

Funding Affordable Homes Housing Association Limited

East End Homes Limited

Eastlight Community Homes Limited

GB Social Housing plc

Heart of Medway

Livewest Homes Limited

Midland Heart Limited

Monmouthshire Housing

Mosscare St Vincents

Network Homes Limited

North Star Housing Group

Orbit Capital plc

Origin Housing Limited

Newport City Homes

Peabody Trust

Paradigm Housing Group

Phoenix Community Housing

Poplar Harca

Sovereign Housing Association Limited

The Guinness Partnership Limited

The Housing Finance Corporation Limited

Two Rivers Housing

Vivid Housing

Zebra Housing

Work highlights

  • Acted on a £250 million refinancing transaction, including new loan facilities from two lenders, the restatement of an existing long-term facility and an £85 million private placement with Legal and General – the first ever sustainability-linked private placement by a housing association.
  • Acted on the refinancing of Origin Housing Limited’s entire loan portfolio. Two of the loans were sustainability linked loans with metrics linked to governance and diversity and inclusion policies.
  • Acted for Paradigm Housing Group on their inaugural £350 million sustainability bond issue. Advised on all aspects of the bond issue which was issued in accordance with Paradigm’s Sustainability Finance Framework, which embeds environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into its strategy.

Real estate > Social housing: local authorities and registered providers Tier 1

Trowers & Hamlins LLP  provides ‘efficient and rounded advice‘ and an ‘unrivalled‘ service across the full breadth of social housing matters, acting for all types of clients in the sector, and with particular experience in setting up joint ventures between public and private sector players to secure the provision of social housing. For example, partner Sara Bailey acts for housing providers and central government developers on PPP projects, partnerships and joint ventures, as do Scott Dorling, Amy Shaw and Paul McDermott. Sharron Webster and Ian Davis advise, in particular, on governance and regulatory issues, while Rob Beiley has a focus on advising new entrants to the affordable housing market and Andy Barnard leads on build-to-rent transactions. Clients state that they frequently use the ‘well organised‘ team, headed by ‘excellent leadTonia Secker, ‘for the more complex schemes because of their breadth and depth of experience and UK wide presence‘.

Practice head(s):

Tonia Secker

Testimonials

‘In-depth understanding of the social housing sector in both not for profit and the growing for profit provider space. Trowers’ ability to bring a width and depth of expertise to each area of discussion, as well as added value beyond any brief, is invaluable.’

‘Tonia Secker is an excellent lead for Trowers, very responsive, well-informed and connected, which she uses creatively to problem-solve.’

‘Sharron Webster – innovative, forward-thinking, always focused on how can you! Sharron gains a real understanding of your business and always has this knowledge at the forefront of her mind, enabling connections and networks to form and driving collaboration where there is a shared value across the sector.’

‘The Trowers team are always very well-organised and prepared for all meetings. They’ve had internal cross discipline conversations in advance of any of our legal meetings, meaning that we get efficient and rounded advice. They are a proactive team, identifying potential issues and flagging these early. Using outstanding issues lists to highlight and focus on key commercial elements to draw negotiations to swift conclusions.’

‘Amy Shaw – Always a pleasure to work with. Very attentive and goes above and beyond to ensure the client is fully briefed, aware of the commercial concerns and informed ahead of making decisions. Extremely knowledgeable about social housing and many of the complexities of grant funding, planning and regulation in a market where parameters are regularly changing.’

‘They understand the client brief, and challenge and explain things in a customer friendly way, which anyone can understand. It is a breadth of fresh air not to have complicated ‘legalese’.

‘The team are excellent in social housing, construction contracts, joint venture documentation and land purchase agreements. We use Trowers for the more complex schemes because of their breadth and depth of experience and UK wide presence. Their procurement advice is always excellent.’

‘Bespoke specialist services staff with extensive experience in the industry, but in particular the for-profit RP sector, which is a new emerging sector. Work in partnership to understand your business model, and how they can bring added value to this. Fair and transparent billing service’

Key clients

Homes England

Greater London Authority

Peabody Trust

Legal & General Affordable Homes

Vistry Partnerships

Hyde Housing Group

Clarion Housing Group

The Guinness Partnership

Man Group

Vengrove

Sovereign Housing Association

Swan Housing

Evera Homes

VIVID Housing

Paradigm Housing Group

Network Homes Limited

Origin Housing

Catalyst Housing Group

Hill Residential

BoKlok

L&Q Housing Trust

Mount Anvil

Residential Secure Income plc

QSix

Housing 21

One Housing Group

Cross Keys Homes

Goram Homes

Capital Letters

Westminster City Council

London Borough of Enfield

London Borough of Barking & Dagenham

Slough Borough Council

London Borough of Ealing

Epping Forest District Council

Work highlights

  • Acted for Aster Group on their transformation and growth programme. This included a merger with Central & Cecil Housing Trust, which sees the Aster Group moving further into the South East market.
  • Acted for Legal & General Affordable Homes on the growth of their affordable housing platform and retained to advise on the structuring of the growth of their affordable housing platform and which included advising on the establishment and registration of four new for-profit registered providers of social housing with the Regulator of Social Housing.
  • Acted for Catalyst Housing Limited in relation to the St Ann’s Hospital Site. CHL were procured under the LDP2 panel and the scheme will deliver ca. 934 homes, 50% of which will be affordable housing. Catalyst will also enter into a joint venture with Hill Residential in relation to the private sale element.

Real estate > Social housing Tier 1

Trowers & Hamlins LLP’s affordable housing group ‘offers a responsive and professional service to social housing clients’ and has ‘a broad understanding of the drivers, constraints and legal complexities of regulated social housing businesses’. The team counts notable housing associations and local authorities on its client roster, alongside investors and new market entrants. Practice head Suzanne Benson focuses on substantial projects and the development of homeownership products, while Richard St John Williams heads up the governance work. Other key practitioners include Melanie Comer, who is joint head of the firm’s national real estate finance security team, asset management specialist Janet Winrow, and real estate litigator Lynn James. At senior associate level, Tom Wainwright is active in structuring and constitutional work.

Practice head(s):

Suzanne Benson

Testimonials

‘The team work well together, across a range of specialisms, to offer a responsive and professional service to Social housing clients. They share a broad understanding of the drivers, constraints and legal complexity of regulated social housing businesses, and this, combined with the detailed knowledge and experience of each field, results in an efficient and effective service.’

‘Practical, pragmatic, up-to-date knowledge, industry experience. Energy and drive.’

‘Long-standing relationship with the sector and involvement in lots of cross-sector work on new initiatives.’

Key clients

Community Gateway Association

Latimer Developments Limited/Clarion Housing Association

Vivid Housing Limited

Incommunities Limited

The Guinness Partnership Limited

AnyNest

Progress Housing Group

Salix Homes

Broadway Living RP Limited

Warwick District Council

JV North Limited

Aurora Options and Lewisham Nexus Service

L&G Affordable Homes

Monmouthshire Housing Association

MSV Housing

Plus Dane

believe housing

Work highlights

  • Acted for Community Gateway in connection with the acquisition of a site from Homes England for the construction of over 200 units including Affordable Housing and an extra care facility.
  • Advised Progress Housing Group on the process of Reside Housing Association joining its group as a subsidiary.
  • Advised Salix Homes on a development agreement with English Cities Fund, an agreement for lease and lease with Salford City Council and a Grant Funding Agreement with the GMCA.

Real estate > Commercial property: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall Tier 1

Trowers & Hamlins LLP brings to bear an impressive track record in development and property investments, as well as residential and mixed-use urban regeneration schemes. The firm counts local authorities, institutional investors and real estate investment trusts amongst its clients, for which it also offers extensive expertise in the area of ESG. The practice is headed by a trio consisting of London-based Tonia Secker, and Georgina Savill-James and Chris Rundle in Exeter, who both handle a significant volume of transactional matters. Nicholas Burt is experienced in advising on residential development and strategic land matters, while managing associate Gail White supports clients in both the private and public sector.

Practice head(s):

Tonia Secker; Georgina Savill-James; Chris Rundle

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

Stevenage Borough Council

Galliford Try Group (incorporating Linden Homes)

British Telecommunications plc

Verto Homes

Legal & General Affordable Homes

Boklok Housing

Vistry Group

LiveWest

Civitas

Kames Capital

Freshwater Group of Companies

Greendale Group

Arbuthnot Latham

Abri Group

Hyde Group

Phoenix Community Housing Association

Ace Student Living – Edison Limited (Southampton)/Mozart Property Limited (Exeter)

Work highlights

  • Acted for the Hyde Group in its formation of a strategic partnership with global investment firm M&G which will lead to the development of £500m new affordable homes.
  • Continuing to advise Vistry Group in respect of its acquisition and development of a site known as Daddon Hill in Northam, North Devon (value in excess of £100m) which will deliver 500 dwellings with associated amenities.
  • Advised Stevenage Borough Council on its strategic £65m sale of a site in Stevenage Town Centre for redevelopment to deliver a life sciences hub (cell and gene therapy), including negotiation of a Towns Fund public funding agreement with the buyer and the developer, and a buy-back option to protect against the risk of non-completion of the development.

Public sector > Local government Tier 1

Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises on major regional local government projects, recently supporting Birmingham City Council in its capacity as host city to the 2022 Commonwealth Games; a matter led by Amardeep Gill, who specialises in advising local authorities in transactions across a range of sectors. Key areas for the team include PFI, joint property ventures, infrastructure, housing authority reviews and devolution. Chris Plumley leads the public sector real estate practice and is well known for his work with public sector property regeneration and development. Associates Louis Sebastian and Matt Whelan  are also key members of the team. Alex Lawrence joined the firm from Bevan Brittan LLP.

Practice head(s):

Amardeep Gill; Chris Plumley; Scott Dorling

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

A highly skilled team with great personal skills, and excellent leadership.’

The diversity of the practice skills and competencies, along with the easy access to that wider team of specialists, makes this team unique.’

Amardeep Gill has great personal skills, and is brilliant at communicating with clients. He has a very astute legal mind, and a skillset to match his personality.

Key clients

WM5G Limited

West Midlands Combined Authority

Birmingham City Council

Kent County Council

Lancaster City Council

Belfast City Council

Wolverhampton City Council

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

Wirral Council

Guildford Council

Work highlights

  • Advise the council in its capacity as Host City for the Commonwealth Games, replacing an existing provider.
  • Provided lead advice in relation to several large procurement and technology related projects, and are considered their go-to firm for complex projects.
  • Advised Kent County Council on a number of commercial, procurement and governance matters over the last 12 months.

Finance > Islamic finance Tier 2

Acting on its own, as well as frequently in conjunction with lawyers based out of the firm’s strong Middle Eastern hub, Trowers & Hamlins LLP is a compelling proposition to stakeholders utilising a wide range of Sharia-compliant structures on both inbound and outbound investments. A significant amount of the work handled out of London relates to property finance, with Neill Gibson particularly adept at devising often innovative structures to facilitate Islamic investors wishing to invest in UK and European real estate. The team is also well placed to leverage the firm’s overarching private wealth offering, and is regularly engaged by Islamic family offices and high-net-worth-individuals on their investment strategies – much of which are structured utilising Islamic financing. Corporate partner Adya Habboush is regularly engaged in this type of work, as well as having significant expertise establishing Sharia-compliant offshore funds.

Other key lawyers:

Ayda Habboush; Neill Gibson; Susan Jarvis; Katharine Lewis; Helen Fysh; Moad Giebaly; Jonathan Grosvenor; Salman Ahmed

Key clients

Lembaga Tabung Haji

90 North Real Estate Partners

Gatehouse Bank PLC

Apache Capital Partners LLP

Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB)

Kuwait Finance House

Warba Bank KSCP

Rasameel Investment Company KSCC

Dimah Capital Investment Company KSCC

Dubai Islamic Bank

First Energy Bank

Rasmala Investment Bank

SEDCO Capital

A’ayan Real Estate Company

Arbah Capital

Sidra Capital

Sohar Islamic

Oman Takaful Insurance Company

Meethaq Islamic Banking, bank muscat S.A.O.G. (Meethaq)

Al Muzn

Sanvira Carbon SFZ LLC

Work highlights

  • Advised Alizz Islamic Bank and Ubhar Capital on their roles as the issue managers on the issuance of unsecured subordinated perpetual sukuk certificates by Sukuk Trust, the special purpose company established by Oman International Development and Investment Company.  
  • Advised Sohar Islamic, Sohar International Bank on its role as the sole dealer and issue manager in relation to the establishment by Takaful Oman Insurance of its debut sukuk certificate issuance programme.
  • Advised Warba Bank KSCC on a joint venture UK inward investment with Cortland for the purchase, funding and operating of a Build to Rent, forward purchase project in Manchester Greengate.

Public sector > Healthcare Tier 2

The health and social care team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP provides deep cross sector expertise across all facets of healthcare. In particular, the team is highly active within the rapidly growing field of senior living, having won a number of awards for their work in this sector. As well as this, members of the team are experts in real estate, employment, public law and charities in the independent sector. Tim Nye regularly advises operators in the specialist areas of mental healthcare, residential nursing and domiciliary care. He co-heads the team with Kyle Holling, a projects lawyer highly experienced in care homes, retirement living and supported housing, who advises providers in the public, private and third sectors.

Practice head(s):

Tim Nye; Kyle Holling

Other key lawyers:

Alison Chivers; Tom Calnan; Helen Fysh

Testimonials

‘In my view they are the #1 firm in the rapidly expanding senior living sector, and understand that this sector is a combination of real estate and consumer legislation. This is an area where there will be considerable law reform in the coming years and Trowers are at the forefront of the thinking around this.’

‘Excellent team with unique extensive experience in the somewhat “unusual” field of NHS Property Management.’

‘Very impressed with the London healthcare team at Trowers & Hamlin. Their attention to detail, understanding of the market, and ability to simplify highly complicated issues into easy discussion points is crucial to their high standard of service. Their advice is both timely and accurate, and there is never any complaint or difficulty in going the extra mile for a tight deadline.’

‘Alison Chivers is extremely strong and able to support very efficiently.’

Key clients

Octopus Real Estate

Dimensions

National Autistic Society

Royal National Institute for the Deaf

Apposite Capital

Inflexion Private Equity

Cornerstone Healthcare Group

Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust

Swanton Care & Community

Rangeford Villages

Ellison Oxford Limited

Associated Retirement Community Operators (ARCO)

Rosemont Pharmaceuticals Limited

Inspired Villages

Anchor

Octopus Healthcare Fund

Octopus Real Estate

Dimensions

National Autistic Society

Royal National Institute for the Deaf

Apposite Capital

Inflexion Private Equity

Cornerstone Healthcare Group

Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust

Swanton Care & Community

Rangeford Villages

Ellison Oxford Limited

Associated Retirement Community Operators (ARCO)

Rosemont Pharmaceuticals Limited

Inspired Villages

Anchor

Octopus Healthcare Fund

Work highlights

  • Advised  Octopus Real Estate and Schroders Real Estate on a joint venture with Elysian Residences to bring forward market-leading retirement communities. The new communities will provide age exclusive new homes for retirees and are targeted to generate close to £200m of GDV.
  • Advised Rosemont Pharmaceuticals Limited (a portfolio company of Inflexion Private Equity) on its bolt-on acquisition of a portfolio of liquid pharmaceutical products by way of the acquisition of Yorkdale Pharma Liquids Limited from Essential Pharmaceuticals Limited.
  • Advised Ellison Oxford Limited (the UK subsidiary of The Lawrence J Ellison Institute for Transformative Medicine) in purchasing a life sciences building in Oxford, its first UK property  purchase, in a move that strengthened its partnership with the University of Oxford and the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change.

Real estate > Commercial property: development Tier 2

The full-service real estate practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP has ‘a broad range of expertise across the development lifecycle, from site acquisitions and planning to construction and delivery’ and has demonstrable experience in acting for local authorities on large-scale redevelopment and regeneration schemes. With an active inward investment practice, particularly from the Far East and Middle East, the team is also noted for its capability in the mixed-use, office, retail, hotel and leisure sectors. Tonia Secker leads the practice, as well as the firm’s affordable housing group, and Rebecca Wardle acts for both private and public sector clients in residential development and regeneration projects, with particular expertise in student accommodation and build to rent mandates. Tom Calnan joined the team from McDermott Will & Emery LLP in April 2021 and focuses on private equity real estate matters.

Practice head(s):

Tonia Secker

Other key lawyers:

Rebecca Wardle; Patrick Morris

Testimonials

‘The Trowers team has a deep understanding of the real estate market, commercial drivers and their client’s goal. They have a broad range of expertise across the development lifecycle, from site acquisitions and planning to construction and delivery.’

‘Trowers give honest, frank and straightforward legal advice, enabling clients to evaluate situations with minimal ambiguity.’

‘The team was incredibly responsive and completed a complex deal in a very short period of time. Tom Calnan led the team and brought in expertise to ensure the deal was executed with the necessary experience and resources.’

Key clients

Global Net Lease (NYSE: GNL)

Broadside Holdings Limited

Ellison Oxford Limited

London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham

Urban Logistics REIT PLC

Boklok Housing Limited

Phoenix Community Housing Association

Westminster City Council

Hill Residential Limited

Bury Council

Vengrove (Vengrove Real Estate Social Housing Partners Fund)

Apache Capital Partners

Poplar Housing and Regeneration Company Limited

Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB)

American Realty Capital Global (ARC)

Wates Group

Work highlights

  • Acted for Broadside Holdings Limited, a joint venture between BBS Capital, Melburg and Galliard Homes.
  • Acted on the recent acquisition by the Ellison Institute of a 5.9-acre site in Oxford.
  • Acting for Boklok Housing Limited, the sustainable and quality low-cost home provider jointly owned by Skanska and Ikea, on several development projects in the last 12 months.

Public sector > Local government Tier 2

The team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP is praised for its ‘deep understanding of local government clients’ needs’. Key areas of work include regeneration schemes, public sector infrastructure projects, local authority housing developments as well as governance and strategy advice. Together with Scott Dorling in London, Suzanne Benson co-heads the practice; she specializes in major projects and the development of housing projects. Also to note is Richard St John Williams, who focuses on affordable housing.

Practice head(s):

Suzanne Benson; Scott Dorling

Other key lawyers:

Richard St John Williams; Matthew Holbrook; Darren Ashworth; Dan Butler

Testimonials

‘The team work well together, across a range of specialisms to offer a responsive and professional service to Local Authority clients. They share a broad understanding of the drivers, constraints and legal complexity of local government businesses, and this, combined with the detailed knowledge and experience of each field, results in an efficient and effective service. They are good at ensuring the Brief is accurate, at setting realistic fee estimates and at alerting clients to approaching fee budget caps. Individuals are approachable and offer practical solutions to problems.’

‘I have worked with many individuals within Trowers, and all have been approachable, knowledgeable, and focussed on solutions to problems. They bring energy and drive to the team.’

‘The North West Affordable Team provide a holistic service with access to specialist Practitioners at a national level. The strength and depth of the service provided has been built up over 10s of years practice, working in the sector advising Government, Registered Providers, Local Authorities and other stakeholder maintaining long lasting relations with clients as a trusted, knowledgeable and skilled partner.’

‘Deep understanding of local government clients’ needs. Able to provide practical advice from often vague central government guidance.’

‘Suzanne Benson: Hugely experienced and able to get to the crux of a matter quickly and provide robust, actionable advice.’

Key clients

Warwick District Council

Bury Council

Lancaster City Council

Urban Growth Company and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

Guildford Council

Wirral Council

West Midlands Combined Authority

Lewisham Council

Southwark Council

Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council

Warwick County Council

Stockport Homes

Work highlights

  • Advising Warwickshire County Council on the establishment of the Warwickshire Recovery and Investment Fund (WRIF)as a mechanism for implementing a programme of investment ranging from local communities and enterprise, through property and larger scale business interventions.
  • Acting for Warwickshire District Council on a development and collaboration agreement for the delivery of 248 new affordable homes in Kenilworth along with the related financing: an acquisition and development finance facility to a joint venture between Vistry Partnerships and the Council’s housing company, Milverton Homes
  • Advising Bury Council on strategic transactions relating to regeneration of the town. This has included advice, working alongside Deloitte, on strategic land acquisitions (including two shopping blocks) with associated lease backs for a new civic hub in Radcliffe.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall Tier 2

The Exeter-based practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP recently expanded its expertise with the recruitment of Charisse Crawford, who joined from Stephens Scown LLP in 2021 and now leads the practice; Crawford attracts praise for her expertise in contentious trusts and probate work. The team also benefits from the firm’s wider network when acting in national and international claims, particularly in relation to insurance and commercial disputes and matters involving the Middle East. Senior associate Alexander Sharples is active in cross-border disputes and has knowledge of the energy, IT and defence sectors.

Practice head(s):

Charisse Crawford

Other key lawyers:

Alexander Sharples; Maria Dunn

Testimonials

‘Excellent team from partner to legal exec – comprehensive and user friendly approach to client. Also commercially minded.’

‘Alex Sharples is a stand-out Senior Associate with a great track record. He gives clear, practical advice and brings a big-ticket litigation ethos to his matters. He will clearly be one to watch in Exeter.’

Key clients

Project Abacus (450 Claimants in major group action)

Work highlights

  • Instructed on behalf of circa 450 investors who suffered losses as a result of a potentially fraudulent property scheme operated by the Alpha and Green Parks group of companies.

Employment > Employment: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall Tier 2

Trowers & Hamlins LLP's recent work has had a strong focus on the move to hybrid work, advising clients on the transition from office to flexi-working. The sizeable team also represents clients before the Employment Tribunal, overseeing matters concerning vaccinations, furlough schemes and safe working policies during the pandemic. Both Emma Burrows and John Turnbull head the practice. Burrows focus is on senior exits and board disputes, whilst Turnbull focuses on commercial matters.

Practice head(s):

Emma Burrows; John Turnbull

Other key lawyers:

Tom Stephenson; Stephanie Taylor

Testimonials

‘We have always found Trowers & Hamlins to be professional and accurate with their advice. They provide us with all the facts in a timely manner, allowing us to confidently make employment and HR decisions. They are very approachable and accessible. We have never felt we are just a client. They know who we are, what we do and what we want to achieve. I always feel I can just pick up the phone and talk to them.’

‘Excellent knowledge of subject matter to answer queries. Clear advice both verbally and in writing.Is prepapred to give ‘proper’ advice as to ways to address issues, rather than ‘on the one hand this and on the other hand that’.’

‘Pragmatic commercially focused guidance – they let us know a range of options and the implications of each of them, rather than leading us down a set path. They understand our business in huge detail, and factor in our culture into all their discussions.’

‘The team in the Exeter office care about their clients and respond quickly and efficiently to questions we have asked.’

‘John Turnbull has given us prompt, good advice, which is invaluable to making store we stay on top of all HR functions within the company’

‘The team get to know your business and what it is that you need. The team run a weekly event which looks at different relevant topics and also co-create training sessions to develop managers.’

‘John Turnbull and Tom Stephenson are brilliant at adapting their communication and I really appreciate the honest conversations we can have which help us get to the best solution faster.’

‘John Turnbull is flexible in his approach, with a consideration for commerciality.’

Key clients

Smiths (Gloucester) Limited

Otter Nurseries Limited

Dimensions UK Limited

Devonshire Homes Limited

LiveWest Homes Limited

Richmond Housing Partnership

Ampacet (UK) Limited

Inter‐line Building Supplies Limited

CCS Media Ltd

1848 Ltd

Currie & Brown International Limited

Inflexion Private Equity Partners LLP

Swanton Care & Community

Work highlights

  • Advised client on employment and pensions issues, including complex ET claims; equality issues; TUPE; and changes to terms and conditions.
  • Advised client on Covid vaccination compliance workplace policies.

Real estate > Social housing Tier 2

Based in Exeter, the affordable housing team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises both new entrants as well as longstanding players of the social housing market in addition to joint ventures between the public and private sectors. Georgina Savill-James leads the team and works across all matters of residential property. Hannah Jackson, head of the real estate finance security team, regularly deals with due diligence of large portfolios of residential property assets for a variety of clients such as housing associations. Senior associate Jack Frier represents registered providers and national developers in the acquisition and sales of development sites.

Practice head(s):

Georgina Savill‐James

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Trowers and Hamlins provide exemplar legal services relating to social housing. Their staff teams are fully briefed and aware of the pertinent issues within the sector and are pro-active in their advice and approach.’

‘Jack Frier has been a pleasure to work with.’

‘Jack Frier has excellent communication qualities, and the ability to dissect complex issues and break them down into a way which is easy to understand.’

‘The team is very proactive and quick to respond to queries. The will raise flags and suggest solutions to issues. They are flexible and bring in team members as an when needed.’

‘Georgina Savill-James has led on my projects. She goes above and beyond to deal with issues and queries in a quick and efficient manner. She has represented our interests well and has made it a priority to understand what we as a client need. I can trust her to speak for me and represent my best interests.’

‘The T&H team is very knowledgeable about the housing association sector.’

‘Highly experienced team specialising in the affordable housing sector.’

‘I have worked closely with Jack Frier, and I have always found him to be extremely approachable, knowledgeable and helpful. He will always go out of his way to assist and provides a service above and beyond what would normally be expected.’

Key clients

One Lockleaze LLP

Legal & General Affordable Homes

Phoenix Community Housing Association (Bellingham and Downham) Limited

Hyde Group

Abri Group Limited

Brighter Places

Vistry Partnerships Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised L&G Affordable Homes on various projects across the region and wider area including some direct delivery schemes.
  • Advised on the joint venture between Goram Homes and Vistry Partnerships Limited in the sale of 147 dwellings at Lockleaze, Bristol to Bristol City Council.
  • Advising Phoenix Community Housing Association (Bellingham and Downham) Limited on its portfolio purchase from London & Quadrant Housing Trust.

Real estate > Social housing Tier 2

Helmed by experienced tenants’ rights expert Digby Morgan, Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘s affordable housing practice is frequently instructed by a sizeable roster of local authorities and registered providers – both on transactional and governance-led matters. Yetunde Dania spearheads the housing management team, regularly handling a mix of ASB issues, tenancy fraud, and disrepair issues. Projects and construction practice head Mark Robinson acts for various RPs across the region on procurement strategies and contractual exercises. Senior associate Natalie Owen works with RPs and lenders on the full scope of financing matters, while senior associate Kate Davies handles various stock rationalisation projects and joint ventures for new developments. All named lawyers are based in Birmingham.

Practice head(s):

Digby Morgan

Key clients

A2Dominion

Midland Heart Limited

Citizen Housing Group Limited

Catalyst Housing Limited

Plus Dane Housing Ltd

Platform Housing Limited

Gateway Housing Association

Legal & General Affordable Homes

Cross Keys Homes Limited

First Garden Cities Homes Limited

Shropshire Rural Housing Association Ltd

Walsall Housing Group Limited trading as whg.

London Borough of Enfield

Flint Housing Limited

The Community Housing Group

ReSI Housing Group

Bournville Village Trust

Peabody

Brighter Places (formerly United Communities)

Work highlights

  • Acted for Legal & General Affordable Homes in relation to the large development site at Broadlands Fields, Norwich.
  • Walsall Housing Group in the deferred security for a Bond with bLEND, the Sector’s first aggregator deferred bond.
  • Acted for Clarion Housing Association Limited on a possession claim due to complaints of antisocial behaviour around the use of illegal drugs and other nuisance.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 3

Trowers & Hamlins LLP's department is best known for its experience in Middle East-related matters and substantial commercial disputes, including litigation involving public sector bodies. National commercial litigation head Lucy James acts in disputes involving complex contracts, defamation, fraud, IT claims, professional negligence and partnerships; Alex Burton is a cross-border disputes specialist; Navinder Grover co-heads the firm's contentious insolvency practice; and Charlotte Clayson is a commercial and public law disputes expert. The London team also features experienced managing associate James Lancaster, along with key senior associates Cara GillinghamLaura PennellsMichael Rhode and Rebecca Lawrence.

Practice head(s):

Lucy James

Key clients

Sayacorp

InHealth Group

Caramel Sales

HITEX

Tradition Singapore (Pte)

Work highlights

  • Acting for Sayacorp (as claimant) in the Abu Dhabi Global Market Court, in relation to claims against NMC Healthcare (in administration) and various other NMC group companies (all also in administration).
  • Acting for one side of a UHNW Bahraini family in the international aspects of a long-running dispute over control of the family business and finances.
  • Defending a family of New York-based art and rare instrument collectors and dealers against a London-based art adviser’s claim, which concerns the sale of a work by Picasso.

Public sector > Education: schools Tier 3

Trowers & Hamlins LLP's practice focuses on real estate transactions, including acquiring sites for new schools and advising on construction and mixed-use sites. The team is led by Assad Maqbool, who leads on work for the Secretary of State for Education in relation to free schools, and Amardeep Gill, who advises on commercial education matters for central government and local authorities.

Practice head(s):

Assad Maqbool; Amardeep Gill

Testimonials

‘Trowers have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the sector stemming from the long-standing support they have given to the Department for Education over the last decade. This expertise is particularly strong in the property and construction teams.’

‘The team at Trowers combine excellent technical expertise with commercial nous and it is this practical approach that I value particularly highly.’

Work highlights

  • Advised the DfE on the construction and property aspect of over 100 schools projects from acquisition to refurbishment or new build (permanent and temporary).

Real estate > Commercial property: investment Tier 3

The full-service real estate practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP has ‘a broad range of expertise across the development lifecycle, from site acquisitions and planning to construction and delivery’ and has demonstrable experience in acting for local authorities on large-scale redevelopment and regeneration schemes. With an active inward investment practice, particularly from the Far East and Middle East, the team is also noted for its capability in the mixed-use, office, retail, hotel and leisure sectors. Tonia Secker leads the practice, as well as the firm’s affordable housing group, and Rebecca Wardle acts for both private and public sector clients in residential development and regeneration projects, with particular expertise in student accommodation and build to rent mandates. Tom Calnan joined the team from McDermott Will & Emery LLP in April 2021 and focuses on private equity real estate matters.

Practice head(s):

Tonia Secker

Other key lawyers:

Tom Calnan; Julien Allen; Sam Folley

Testimonials

‘The Trowers team has a deep understanding of the real estate market, commercial drivers and their client’s goal. They have a broad range of expertise across property sectors and the development lifecycle, from site to planning and from construction to delivery.’

‘Trowers’ commitment to real estate really shows in the service they provide us. The breadth and depth of Trowers real estate expertise inspires confidence that all aspects of a transaction will be dealt with by an experienced specialist, who really understands how real estate transactions should be run.’

‘Tom Calnan was flexible, responsive, and creative. He focused on the right balance of legal and business issues.’

‘There is clearly great rapport and trust amongst their team, which means we can trust them to work together to deliver what we need. A high level of partner contact is clearly a key element of Trowers client service model, at the same time as allowing more junior lawyers to take on responsibility.’

‘The Trowers’ team have been extremely efficient throughout the whole transactional process. Their communication was always strong and we knew they would always be able to help.’

Key clients

Global Net Lease (NYSE: GNL)

Broadside Holdings Limited

Ellison Oxford Limited

London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham

Urban Logistics REIT PLC

Boklok Housing Limited

Phoenix Community Housing Association

Westminster City Council

Hill Residential Limited

Bury Council

Vengrove (Vengrove Real Estate Social Housing Partners Fund)

Apache Capital Partners

Poplar Housing and Regeneration Company Limited

Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB)

American Realty Capital Global (ARC)

Wates Group

Work highlights

  • Acted for US REIT giant Global Net Lease on the purchase and leaseback of the 50-hectare Norman Foster-designed McLaren Campus near Woking, Surrey.
  • Acted for Urban Logistics REIT on various industrial asset acquisitions across the UK, which were acquired in the lead up to its listing on the Main Market in December 2021.
  • Acted on the recent acquisition by the Ellison Institute of a 5.9-acre site in Oxford.

Real estate > Construction: contentious Tier 3

Trowers & Hamlins LLP offers advice on a variety of domestic projects, including residential and commercial developments, as well as infrastructure. It is also particularly active in the retirement and senior living sector, and in advising clients in building safety claims. Anthony Yates is national head of the construction and disputes team, and is particularly experienced in adjudications and ADR. Clarissa Smith is experienced in engineering projects, as well as offsite and modular construction, whilst Tim Hillier focuses on the construction, engineering and energy sectors.

Practice head(s):

Anthony Yates

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Tim Hillier has an outstanding appreciation of complex building projects and, in particular, the financial structures behind them. His insight is clearly appreciated by the mixed international financial partnerships he advises on development projects in the jurisdiction.’

‘Clarissa Smith has an enviable practice in local authority outsourcing and construction in addition to a number of major names in construction.’

‘The team are very hands on and willing to work to put the client in the best possible position.’

‘Clarissa Smith is an excellent partner. She was well engaged with the detail, but also kept a helicopter view of the dispute so that the signal was not lost in the noise.’

‘Highly professional and considered advice. The team make the time to understand all issues and ensure all is understood before making recommendations.’

‘Clarissa Smith sets and maintains high standards which are mirrored through her team.’

‘Clarissa Smith is an excellent, creative and calm lead on a complex case.’

Key clients

London Borough of Camden

Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole Council

Work highlights

  • Advising London Borough of Camden in relation to a dispute concerning the Chalcots estate housing PFI project, which has arisen due to the type of ACM building cladding used, along with other defects within the building.
  • Advising Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole Council on a potential dispute involving a multi-party claim for a defective bridge located on the south coast of England.
  • Acting for a UK national housebuilder in a final account dispute in relation to the construction of a high-end central London development. The claim also concerns associated delays arising from the delayed completion of façade works.

Real estate > Construction: non-contentious Tier 3

Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises across a broad range of construction matters, and is particularly well known for its expertise in advising private and public sector clients on residential and mixed used development matters and regeneration schemes. Other sectors of expertise include retirement and senior living, hotel and leisure, and infrastructure, including rail, highways, and water utilities. The team is led by Stephanie Canham, who has significant experience acting for private and commercial developers. Assad Maqbool specialises in alliancing and collaborative forms of contract, whilst Michael Chilton brings additional experience advising on international power projects and PFI schemes.

Practice head(s):

Stephanie Canham

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

UK Retirement Living Fund/Elysian Residences JV

Museum of London

EcoWorld

The Berkeley Group pls

Apache Capital

Oxfordshire County Council

Wates Construction

JD Wetherspoon

Thirdi Group

RE Capital

Federated Hermes

Mission Street/BentallGreenOak JV

London Borough of Hackney

Fifth Capital

Marylands Bolney

Work highlights

  • Advising the Museum of London on the relocation of the museum from its current site on London Wall to a new location in the historic Smithfield Market, including risk management of the project.
  • Advising Berkeley Homes (South East London) Limited on the construction and infrastructure aspects of the multi-phased development of a 10 hectare/25-acre site at TwelveTrees Park, West Ham.
  • Advised Thirdi Group on the acquisition, finance, development, and construction contracting for an office-led and residential development of the site known as Graphite Square London SE11.

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 3

The practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP places particular focus on four areas of work - commercial property institutional investment, development, service charges and enfranchisement. In addition, the team includes experts in the Electronic Communications Code and advises both public and private sector clients. Paul Marco leads the team; he is well versed in matters concerning vacant possession strategy, dilapidations, rent reviews and property related insolvency. Douglas Rhodes specialises in fire safety and service charge related matters. Nicholas Levy is noted for his handling of disputes arising from the acquisition, management and disposal of real estate. Rachel Kerr's expertise includes strategic advice on Court proceedings for injunctive relief.

Practice head(s):

Paul Marco

Testimonials

‘The Trowers’ team has a deep understanding of the real estate market, commercial drivers and their client’s goals.’

‘Nick Levy is a stand-out advisor who really takes the time to understand his client’s needs and priorities.’

‘They are simply excellent across the board. The team operates at a national level and the fact that each of their offices are integrated means that their client service is second to none.’

‘Paul Marco, Douglas Rhodes and Rachel Kerr are absolute super-stars.’

‘Doug Rhodes is an exceptional lawyer, happy to get immersed in the detail and willing to go the extra mile to get a result.’

Key clients

CLS Risk Solutions Limited

National Bank of Kuwait

J D Wetherspoon plc

Caprice Group

First Abu Dhabi Bank

Aegon Asset Management – Fund: Scottish Equitable Limited

Westminster City Council (Investment Property – telecoms portfolio)

Trinova Real Estate

Grosvenor Estate

Pitmore

Work highlights

  • Successfully represented an Aegon Asset Management – Fund: Scottish Equitable Limited in a 1954 Act lease renewal dispute.
  • Acted for Grosvenor in a successful First-tier Tribunal application to confirm that its method of apportioning service charges in respect of maintaining a garden square was fair and reasonable.
  • Advised Pinnacle University Properties Limited and Crescent Moon Properties Limited on an ongoing High Court claim for the return of a deposit following the termination of agreements for lease in a failed property development scheme in Liverpool.

Transport > Travel Tier 3

The travel tourism and insurance team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP has a wide range of technical specialties including winter sports, foreign clinical negligence, and policy interpretation, amongst many others. Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp leads the team from Exeter and is cited as 'one of the best partners in the area.' She set up the practice in 1987 and is also a founder committee member of WITI (Women in Travel Insurance). Typical clients include individual claimants and travel insurers - the practice handles both claimant and defendant matters.

Practice head(s):

Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp

Other key lawyers:

Ian Brown; Tom Sampford

Testimonials

‘The team at Trowers have enormous experience dealing with both claimants and defendants in travel related claims. As a result they have an excellent understanding of how this litigation works for both sides. They take a sensible pragmatic approach and get some excellent results.’

‘The partners are all extremely knowledgeable. Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp stands out as being one of the best partners in the area, acting for both claimants and defendants, as does Ian Brown. Tom Samford is also very effective.’

‘Very approachable, resourceful and helpful. Will go all out to assist. Good communications skills. Know what they are doing and will try to accommodate a business client’s needs within reason. You have peace of mind once they are onboard as you can leave it with them to progress the claim.’

‘We work with Ian Brown and Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp who are both very easy and pleasant to talk to. They listen and provide alternatives, where necessary. They go all out in providing assistance, whether it’s to liaise with the other party, insurer or any guidance.’

Key clients

Arc Legal Assistance Limited

Collinson Group

Avid Insurance Services Limited

Millstream Underwriting Limited

Allianz

Claims Settlement Agencies Limited

CEGA (Charles Taylor)

Whitehorse Insurance Services

Mapfre

Great Lakes Insurance (SE)

Work highlights

  • Advised a claimant on a high value ski-accident claim, collaborating with lawyers in Colorado, USA to negotiate a six figure settlement pre-trial.
  • Advised travel insurers (confidential) in respect of a subrogated claim involving alleged negligent medical treatment on a cruise ship. Involved an argument on applicable law and jurisdiction with an anti-suit injunction being obtained halting proceedings in Florida, USA – whilst proceedings progressed in the Admiralty Court.
  • Successfully obtained a five-figure settlement concluding a claim against a tour operator on a case in which local standards evidence needed to be adduced to prove that technical standards in a plate glass window in Spain fell below the relevant required standard.

Real estate > Construction Tier 3

Headed up by housing and regeneration expert Katie Saunders, the practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises clients in the infrastructure, central government, and education sectors, while the practice has expanded into modular construction projects and supply chain matters in response to various market factors. Tom Holroyd leads the construction litigation team acting on high-profile disputes, and specialises in energy-from-waste projects nationally and internationally.

Practice head(s):

Stephanie Canham; Katie Saunders

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The construction team are really collaborative and have over the years built a deep understanding about what the sector requires while also balancing that with risk and the external market context. This makes for a pragmatic solutions-focussed approach.’

‘They explain things really clearly providing different points of view in a way which cuts through some of the complexities and puts it in layperson terms. Tom Holroyd delivers this.’

Key clients

Places for People Group

Clarion Housing Group

Salix Homes

JV North

Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council

HTA Design LLP

Seven Capital

Warwick District Council

Pilon Construction

Top Hat

Work highlights

  • Advised JV North Limited, a procurement consortium of 13 housing associations and local authorities in the north west comprising in one of the biggest developers of new affordable homes in the UK.
  • Advised Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council on the procurement and selection of a construction partner for their town centre regeneration programme, the first phase comprising constriction of a 145-bed hotel for Hampton by Hilton.
  • We advise PiLON Limited an award winning, maintenance contractor on their construction contracts and contentious matters as well as their corporate and employment requirements.

Private client > Agriculture and estates Tier 3

Trowers & Hamlins LLP has a multidisciplinary practice which handles environmental and renewable matters, oversees the sale and purchase of farmland and negotiates rights of way. Nicola Janus-Harris leads the team, which has recently been bolstered by the arrivals of disputes partner Charisse Crawford, who joined from Stephens Scown LLP in early 2022, as well as associate Donna Duncan from Ashfords LLP and equine disputes-focused solicitor Josh O’Neil from Tozers Solicitors LLP.

Practice head(s):

Nicola Janus-Harris

Other key lawyers:

Helen Honeyball; Charisse Crawford

Work highlights

  • Client is pursuing a claim against the estate of her late partner under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. We anticipate that the estate value is £5m+ and the claim value is £1m+. The individuals had cohabited for just under two years on our client’s partner’s Farm, when he unexpectedly died having not updated his Will. During their cohabitation and following his passing, our client has essentially been running the Farm. The defendants to our client’s claim are the deceased’s children. Sadly, given our client had lived with the now deceased on a full-time basis for a little under two years, her claim is limited to a claim by a person who was maintained by the deceased immediately before their death, which in many ways is more complex and nuanced than a claim by a cohabitee.
  • Succession planning following death of husband involving discussion of whether to continue with the running of a Wood Products Company and general farming activities. Deal value approximately £2.5m. Consulting with accountant on the tax implications of winding up the business and farming activities. This shows our ability to work alongside rural businesses and their accountants to determine if the business is still viable after the death of the owner and main employee.

Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 3

The practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP is led by both Helen Honeyball and Jonathan Kropman. Honeyball has extensive experience advising clients on succession and estate planning. Kropman advises domestic and international high-net worth individuals. Disputes specialist Charisse Crawford joined the firm's Exeter office from Stephens Scown LLP in early 2022.

Practice head(s):

Helen Honeyball; Jonathan Kropman

Other key lawyers:

Frank Cook; Amanda Rainford; Sophie Critchley

Testimonials

‘Their record of service to me and my family on legal issues across the board has always been first class.’

‘Amanda Rainford and Sophie Critchley are both very helpful and friendly, and with clear advice and excellent knowledge of their special area of work. I appreciate the attention they give to my business and also their persistence in following up issues – I doubt I could ask for better service.’

 

Work highlights

    Public sector > Local government Tier 3

    Trowers & Hamlins LLP offers clients advice across the whole spectrum of local government related issues, ranging from employment and governance to projects and litigation. The practice is headed by a trio consisting of Lynne Rathbone, John Turnbull and Rory Stracey, all located in Exeter.

    Practice head(s):

    Lynne Rathbone; John Turnbull; Rory Stracey

    Other key lawyers:

    Testimonials

    ‘The team is always very helpful with a wide and extensive knowledge base in planning and the environment.’

    ‘Rory Stracey has been very helpful when looking at forthcoming legislative changes and acting as a sounding board as he has a wide knowledge of local government processes at District Council level.’

    ‘Technical strength with a practical approach, I regard as sound advisors on legal matters.’

    ‘The team at Trowers has never turned down a challenge. Some of what we require is fast-paced, quick and accurate transactions, with various parties.’

    ‘I have to say one of the key partners that stands out is Georgina Savill-James, when we approached her with the work we had, she was genuinely excited to come along on our journey with us.’

    Key clients

    Dorset Council

    East Devon District Council

    West of England Combined Authority

    Access Your Care Ltd

    South Somerset District Council

    Gloucester City Council

    Bristol City Council

    Tewkesbury Borough Council

    Bath & North East Somerset Council

    Torbay Council

    Sedgemoor District Council

    Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council

    Tamworth Borough Council

    London Borough of Camden

    Westminster City Council

    Cheltenham Borough Council

    Sevenoaks District Council

    Work highlights

    • Acted for Access Your Care Ltd on the transfer of the provision of North Somerset District Council’s domiciliary care services from Alliance Living Care Limited to our client, providing cohesive employment, corporate, and commercial support.
    • Acting for Gloucester City Council on its latest city centre regeneration and employment initiative, the Forum development, providing full strategic support across our real estate, projects, and construction teams for the successful delivery of the project.
    • Delivering project and construction support to South Somerset District Council in respect of its public realm improvement works across regeneration sites of Chard, Wincanton and Yeovil.

    Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham Tier 3

    Trowers & Hamlins LLP's commercial litigation team offer a 'high quality' service to clients dealing with corporate and commercial disputes involving shareholder matters, breach of contract claims and contentious insolvency matters. Helen Briant leads the practice with a focus on fraud and private wealth and family business disputes. Senior associate Jamie De Souza has considerable experience in the manufacturing sector and has led on complicated fraud matters and shareholder disputes.

    Practice head(s):

    Helen Briant

    Other key lawyers:

    Jamie De Souza; Elizabeth Mulley

    Testimonials

    ‘The firm has an excellent reputation for delivering a high quality service.’

    ‘Liz Mulley is on top of her cases and very efficient’

    ‘Jamie De Souza has the winning combination of being an excellent technical lawyer with great people skills in dealing with opponents and clients.’

    ‘Helen Briant is formidable in forming strategy and I was impressed by her ability to come up to proposed solutions in litigation; she is clearly someone who understands the importance of achieving the best possible outcome for her clients.’

    Key clients

    Project Abacus

    Andrew Bridgen

    Richard Goddard

    Kevin Dodson

    Neil Ison

    LiveWest Homes Limited

    David Popeck, Caramel Sales Limited and Advanced Multi-Technology For Medical Industry (Hitex)

    Work highlights

    • Instructed on behalf of circa 450 investors who suffered losses as a result of a potentially fraudulent property scheme operated by the Alpha and Green Parks group of companies.
    • Acting on behalf of Andrew Bridgen MP in respect of a complex shareholder dispute in respect of three unfair prejudice petitions.

    Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham Tier 3

    Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘s ‘very knowledgeable‘ team is roundly praised for its willingness to ‘go above and beyond’ for a diverse lineup of house builders, local authorities, and other developers. The practice is jointly chaired by Fiona Thomson, a seasoned property lawyer whose commercial development focus is most pointedly concentrated in the industrial space, and Chris Plumley, who specialises in large scale public sector mandates, including big-ticket town centre regeneration schemes and nationally-significant infrastructure projects. In his capacity as co-lead of the regional public sector practice, Simon Robinson focuses on residential development matters, ranging from strategic land promotion initiatives to land assembly matters. Digby Morgan heads up the firm’s Midlands-based affordable housing offering, advising on RP-led development schemes, portfolio sales, and lease agreements for care facilities. Senior associate Natalie Owen, who runs the real estate finance team in Birmingham, is also recommended.

    Practice head(s):

    Fiona Thomson; Chris Plumley

    Testimonials

    ‘Having moved from other firms where the service and engagement was poor, it was a breath of fresh air to receive prompt replies, clear advice and to feel that our business mattered to those people we were dealing with.’

    ‘The team are engaged, and proactive in their approach to dealing with both complex and simple matters. Compared to other practices, they are are responsive and fully engaged in the matter at hand.’

    ‘Digby Morgan is exceptional in his approach, and willing to make himself available both via email and via phone – ready to explain both complex and simple matters.’

    ‘A very knowledgeable team that will recommend and seek specialist support from colleagues or escalate complex matters as necessary to ensure that the practice provides a high quality service.’

    ‘They go above and beyond to meet clients deadlines and expectations. With regards to fees, they are open and upfront and maintain transparency of billing. All in all, a very astute and switched on team that provide all information and scenarios to enable clients to make informed decisions.’

     

    Key clients

    West Midlands Combined Authority

    Legal & General Affordable Homes

    Walsall Housing Group

    ReSI Housing Limited

    Opus (Wolverhampton) LLP

    Kent County Council

    The Community Housing Group

    Urban Growth Company and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

    Guildford Council

    Wirral Council

    London Borough of Enfield

    Birmingham City Council

    Eutopia Homes Limited

    Richborough Estates

    Work highlights

    • Advised Urban Growth Company and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, on the creation of the UK Central Hub, one of Europe’s largest regeneration schemes.
    • Advising Guildford Council on many aspects of their regeneration plans.
    • Acted for Legal & General Affordable Homes in the acquisition of 101 shared ownership units from Chelmer Housing Partnership.

    Real estate > Construction Tier 3

    Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘s cross-disciplinary practice acts for a range of stakeholders on projects and claims, including charitable organisations, developers, property management companies, and local authorities, both within the West Midlands and beyond. The team is jointly led by Mark Robinson and Paul Scott, who head up the team’s non-contentious and contentious offerings respectively. Associate Olivia Jenkins is recommended for her capabilities in construction disputes.

    Practice head(s):

    Mark Robinson; Paul Scott

    Other key lawyers:

    Key clients

    Wolverhampton City Council

    Countryside Properties

    Vistry Group

    J Equity

    Historic England

    MCS Group

    Trebor Developments LLP

    Prosperity Investments and Developments Group

    UK – Central (Solihull) Limited

    Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust

    Graven Hill Village Development Company Limited

    Work highlights

    • Advising Birmingham City Council on construction of infrastructure matters, in its capacity as host city of the Commonwealth Games 2022.
    • Advising Countryside Properties on a major dispute with a civil engineering contractor.
    • Providing ongoing assistance to Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust on its programme of estate upgrading work.

    Industry focus > Hospitality and leisure Tier 4

    The team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP is headed by both Ayda Habboush and Julien Allen. Habboush is well regarded for her advice to hotel owners, both international and domestic. Allen has specialist expertise in high-end leisure real estate matters. The practice has notable experience of drafting and negotiating hotel operator and franchise agreements.

    Practice head(s):

    Ayda Habboush; Julien Allen

    Testimonials

    ‘They are responsive, personable and able to explain legal matters and considerations clearly and in layman’s terms.’

    ‘Approachable. Personable. Non pompous. Respectful. Diligent.’

    ‘The team is super dedicated and take the time to understand the client’s business, needs and outcomes from the project.’

    ‘The team has been great at providing a chart of fees, expected costs and work involved.’

    Key clients

    RE Capital (previously known as Geneva Management Group) – Clerkenwell Lifestyle (UK) Limited

    Founders of Golborne Laylow Ltd

    Midia Investors Limited

    Cringle Corporation Limited

    Granite-Turner Limited

    Jasbinder Singh Rai

    J D Wetherspoon

    JBXE Limited

    Caprice Holdings Limited

    Caprice Holdings Limited and Caprice Chelsea Grill Limited

    46 Berkeley Square Limited (Annabel’s club)

    Museum of London

    Eco World London

    Braintree Leisure Limited

    BKUK Group Limited

    Bills Restaurants Limited

    Work highlights

    • Advised the sellers of a 5* boutique hotel in Central London.
    • Advised RE Capital on a new lifestyle hotel development in Camden comprising 70 bedrooms hotel, a 5,810 sq ft co-working office space and a speakeasy bar on the ground floor.
    • Advised Cringle Corporation on the development of a new hotel, Leven, in central Manchester which opened in January 2022.

    Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 4

    Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises on the full array of issues for its charity clients. Ian Davis heads the department that acts for major charitable funds as well as large and innovative charities that raise funds from contracts or from charging the beneficiaries of their services. Helen Briant has a strong reputation for fraud investigation and recovery work. Sharron Webster provides corporate advice to a wide range of charities while Emma Burrows specialises in all aspects of employment law for charities.

    Practice head(s):

    Ian Davis

    Testimonials

    ‘One of the things I value most with our relationship is that I can ask all the daft questions without being made to feel daft. We also receive a very responsive service’.

    ‘We have worked with a number of individuals but my main contact is Emma Burrows, I can’t tell you how highly I value this relationship. Emma is supportive, pragmatic and kind in all of my dealings with her’.

    ‘As workloads change and new depts of T&H have been worked with, it is apparent that the standard of service is extremely high across all teams. The company’s ethos and values are modern and partnership working is valued. Challenging work areas are welcomed with a solution the objective. Would never hesitate to recommend this company who really stand out amongst the competition’.

    ‘More professional and knowledgeable about their specialist area. Willing to help resolve challenging situations and give a comprehensive, easy to understand work plan in terms of solving a problem. Friendly, accessible and nothing is ever too much bother’.

    ‘Helen Briant brings a litigator’s outlook to what can often be a sleepily conducted area of disputes. She is also able to take on contentious appointments. Helen Briant is a cut above the competition and is unafraid to get contentious’.

    ‘The team is long established with senior partners that have been with the firm a long time and have developed credible personal brands through their own work. They are able to offer great input at various price ranges that are not in anyway sub-par’.

    ‘Emma Burrows is a standout leader in her field. I have worked with her through various roles in my career and look forward to doing so in the future. She is a trusted ally of boards and CEOs for her ability to deliver clear, concise advice in context of the sector and its long term impact’.

    Key clients

    Aster Foundation

    Tech She Can

    Save the Children UK

    Plymouth Diocesan Trust

    Active Prospects

    Museum of London

    Rochdale Borough Council

    Aurora Nexus

    Sign Health

    The Strawberry Hill Trust

    Caterham School

    Work highlights

    • Advising Plymouth Diocesan Trust on additional benefits it may be able to receive from incorporation. Additionally, advising the Trust in relation to legacies.
    • Acting for Museum of London on the relocation of the Museum from London Wall to new premises in Smithfield Market.
    • Instructed by Signhealth to review a contract that it proposed to enter into with the NHS to deliver mental health services through British Sign Language (BSL).

    Projects, energy and natural resources > Infrastructure Tier 4

    Trowers & Hamlins LLP is well known in the domestic market for its expertise in PFI and PPP projects, and is active across the housing, education, regeneration, health and social care sectors. The team, which acts for a large number of public sector clients, is headed by Paul McDermott, who has more than 22 years’ experience in the infrastructure arena.

    Practice head(s):

    Paul McDermott

    Other key lawyers:

    Assad Maqbool; Scott Dorling

    Testimonials

    ‘Friendly and flexible, with creative problem-solving skills and good organisation’.

    ‘They are very smart and always pay attention to detail’.

    ‘Knowledgeable, with great communication and responsiveness’.

    ‘The team at Trowers and Hamlins is excellent’.

    ‘It has been a huge endeavour and they have consistently delivered excellent work and successfully managed extremely complex litigation’.

    Key clients

    Secretary State for Education / Department for Education

    Urban Growth Company

    City of Birmingham (as Commonwealth Games host)

    London Borough of Camden

    Bouygues S.A. (FRA) insert Sahara Hospitality Co.(UK)

    Westminster City Council

    WM5G Limited

    The Hyde Group

    London Borough of Brent

    West Midlands Combined Authority

    Rakiza (Oman’s Infrastructure Fund)

    Camden & Islington NHS Trust

    Belfast City Council

    Oxfordshire County Council

    London Borough of Lambeth

    Gloucester City Council

    Work highlights

    • Advised the Secretary of State for Education on Free Schools, the Priority School Building Programme, and the schools’ delivery programme.
    • Advising Westminster City Council on its community housing delivery strategy and the delivery of new council homes, lower cost and market rental and sale homes.
    • Acting for the Bouygues/Sahara Joint Venture in respect of the PDO Manazil Housing PPP Project.

    Public sector > Administrative and public law Tier 4

    Trowers & Hamlins LLP has a strong contentious focus, with a core client base comprising major players from the health, social care and housing sectors. Key contacts at the leadership level are Lucy James – who heads up the firm’s national commercial litigation practice – and Scott Dorling – who oversees the public sector group. Helen Randall‘s broad workload ranges from navigating complex vires, governance, procurement and public subsidy cases, to advising on the public law asepcts of joint ventures.

    Practice head(s):

    Lucy James; Scott Dorling; Helen Randall

    Testimonials

    No matter who we engage with the advice it is always very clear and they understand our needs and what we are trying to achieve. The advice addresses the issue at heart and where there may be a different way to approach maters options are always provided. In addition, it is always a helpful and speedy turnaround.’

    ‘Scott Dorling understands a lot of what we are trying to achieve and even if the right question has not been asked Scott makes the effort to get to the heart of the issue and provide excellent and thorough advice.’ 

    ‘Deep knowledge of local government. Excellent people. Depth and breadth of team.’

    ‘Individuals at Trowers are all of a very high calibre.  What makes them stand out is the consistency and quality of their advice, their flexibility and willingness/ability to problem solve, and their responsiveness to the client.’

    ‘Excellent at identifying and reacting to our needs.’

    ‘They are proactive.’

    Key clients

    Central Bedfordshire Council

    Excession Technologies Limited v Police Digital Service (formerly Police ICT Company)

    Powerrapid Limited v Harlow District Council

    Vital Energi (Drakelow) Limited v South Derbyshire County Council and Countryside Properties Limited (as interested party)

    Westminster City Council

    Stoke on Trent City Council

    West Midlands Combined Authority

    London Borough of Hillingdon

    Warwickshire County Council

    A not for profit central purchasing body providing services relating to public procurement.

    Public sector > Education: institutions Tier 4

    Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises mainly on real estate, as well as procurement, charities and tax matters within the education sector. The team is led by Assad Maqbool, who has worked with the Secretary of State for Education in relationship to free schools, and Amardeep Gill, who advises on commercial work in education, as well as advising sponsors and local authorities on academy and free school initiatives.

    Practice head(s):

    Assad Maqbool; Amardeep Gill

    Testimonials

    ‘Trowers have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the sector stemming from the long-standing support they have given to the Department for Education over the last decade. This expertise is particularly strong in the property and construction teams.’

    ‘The team at Trowers combine excellent technical expertise with commercial nous and it is this practical approach that I value particularly highly. Nikolai Shepherd is a key asset. He is extremely knowledgeable and his pragmatic approach to resolving issues is invaluable.’

    Key clients

    LocatED

    Secretary of State for Education (via Department for Education)

    London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham

    Babington Business Limited

    CORE Education Trust

    Kent County Council

    Empowering Tutors Limited

    Dorset Council

    London Borough of Brent

    Work highlights

    • Advised the DfE on the construction and property aspect of over 100 schools projects from acquisition to refurbishment or new build (permanent and temporary).
    • Advised LocatED on property and construction aspects of their mixed-use development sites.
    • Advised Empowering Tutors Limited, part of the Empowering Learning Group, on the establishment of a web platform through which parents and pupils can engage directly with qualified teachers for person tutorials on a wide range of subjects.

    Real estate > Planning Tier 4

    Trowers & Hamlins LLP’s planning practice focuses on advising local authorities and housing associations on complex regeneration schemes and real estate developments. Practice head Jacqueline Backhaus has notable experience in advising clients in both the public and private sector on planning, highways and CPO law. Senior associate Rob Walker is experienced in all aspects of planning regimes, from policy formation to submission and determination of applications, while senior associate Tim Brown has extensive experience advising clients on the negotiation of section 106 and highways agreements. Associate Halah Al Zamel has successfully appealed planning permission refusals for the development of new schools across England.

    Practice head(s):

    Jacqueline Backhaus

    Other key lawyers:

    Lucy James; Rob Walker; Tim Brown; Michael Rhode; Jasmine Ratta; Halah Al-Zamel

    Key clients

    London Borough of Enfield

    Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council

    Cheltenham Borough Council & Tewkesbury Borough Council

    Gravesham Borough Council

    Norwich City Council

    Clarion Housing Group

    Hyde Housing Association Limited

    Museum of London

    Coromandel

    Stevenage Borough Council

    Hermes

    Epping Forest District Council

    Grosvenor Estates

    Department of Education

    Brookworth Homes

    Graven Hill Developments

    Richmond Housing Partnerships

    Berjaya

    PNB

    Watkin Jones Group PLC

    Farnborough Airport

    Global Net Lease; McClaren

    PNBJ Limited

    Work highlights

    • Advising on all aspects the regeneration of Meridian Water for the London Borough of Enfield, which comprises approximately 85 hectares and is one of the largest developable areas in London.
    • Providing a complete outsource planning legal function for the Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council.
    • Advising Cheltenham Borough Council and Tewkesbury Borough Council on the use of CPO powers to support development of land adjoining Springbank and Fiddlers Green, West Cheltenham.

    Transport > Aviation Tier 4

    The aviation team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP handles dispute arising from the financing and leasing of commercial and jet aircrafts, and passenger personal injury, delay and baggage claims. Asset finance and real estate are also strong areas for the firm, as the practice deals with airport property transactions. Practice head Sam Folley acts for tenants, occupiers and institutional investors, and Alex Burton has extensive experience in commercial disputes.

    Practice head(s):

    Sam Folley

    Other key lawyers:

    Testimonials

    ‘Sensible and pragmatic. Good at expectation management.’

    ‘Alex Burton: uber commercial – realistic, good eye on the bottom line.’

    Key clients

    Gulf Air Group Holding BSC(c)

    AAL Group Limited

    Farnborough Airport Limited

    Liverpool Airport Limited

    Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Manchester Tier 4

    Procurement disputes, contentious insolvencies and defamation cases form the cornerstone of the practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP; between them, joint practice heads Dan Butler and Steve Dunseath offer extensive expertise in these areas. The team leads are supported by a deep bench of recommended junior practitioners, including ‘outstanding‘ associate Ellie O’Sullivan, who is successfully developing the firm’s reputation for public law work.

    Practice head(s):

    Dan Butler; Steve Dunseath

    Other key lawyers:

    Adam Berman; Ellie O’Sullivan; Sebastian Lang

    Testimonials

    ‘Very solid and respected firm in the public sector arena with a strong commercial approach.’

    ‘Dan Butler has an excellent “big picture” approach supported by Ellie O’Sullivan who is the perfect foil with her first rate attention to detail.’

    ‘Steve Dunseath is an extremely effective litigator, with a good tactical sense and a great manner with the most challenging of clients.’

    ‘Trowers are a diverse and forward-thinking practice. Their main strengths are that they learn about you and your business. The whole team is approachable and passionate. In all the years I have been using them they have always protected our interests. They act professionally and honestly.’

    ‘A good allocation of work between partners and associates ensures that clients get an effective and cost-efficient service.’

    ‘Dan Butler and Ellie O’Sullivan are both outstanding lawyers.’

    ‘They are not just about billing you for services rendered! They have become a part of our businesses and our growth. They are an extension of our own team and I know we can turn to them if and when we need them. Our main contact is Daniel Butler. He stands out from the crowd. He works with you. He takes time to understand your business.’

    ‘The team from Trowers has been a key and integral part of handling this contractual dispute which has now reached a successful conclusion. They are extremely knowledgeable, are proactive, and understood the political sensitivities of this issue. They are also very commercially minded which is essential when advising on such cases.’

    Work highlights

      Finance > Banking and finance Tier 4

      Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘s Manchester-based team offers a strong real estate finance practice, with even stronger links with social housing providers. Practice head Neil Waller and partner Eleanor James are key figures in this space, with James offering additional experience in capital markets-related matters.

      Practice head(s):

      Neil Waller

      Other key lawyers:

      Testimonials

      ‘The team have provided excellent support through our refinancing project, very responsive and ultimately have worked tirelessly alongside us to deliver the project on time, ensuring the right governance arrangements are place and ensuring all parties, from board through to finance team, have a robust understanding of the transaction and what is needed from them.’

      ‘The team have been outstanding in the support they have provided throughout the last two years. Their ability to break down complex legal documentation into a way that is understandable for a range of audiences has been fantastic.’

      ‘Willing to stand up against unreasonable requests from the other side, but strong enough to be able to advise where compromise can be made in order to achieve a deal. Excellent technical skills and good matter administration throughout the team.’

      ‘Neil Waller managed complex, interlocking negotiations with a wide variety of parties skilfully and doggedly to deliver outcomes within challenging timescales.’

      Key clients

      Catalyst Housing Limited

      The Guinness Partnership Limited

      Accent Group

      Eastlight Homes

      Brighter Places

      believe housing

      Danske Bank

      Warwick District Council

      Peabody Trust

      Ocean Housing

      Work highlights

      • Advised believe housing on a £250m refinancing transaction, including an £85m private placement.
      • Advised Eastlight Community Homes on a £120m private placement.
      • Advised The Guinness Partnership Limited on the transition of their loan portfolio from LIBOR to SONIA-based interest rates.

      Real estate > Commercial property: Manchester Tier 4

      The team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP undertakes a range of real estate work including commercial acquisitions, large regeneration projects, and leisure facilities. Tonia Secker leads the national real estate practice from London, while major projects specialist Suzanne Benson heads up the Manchester team. Matthew Holbrook handles commercial property matters, and Amanda Stubbs has extensive expertise in environmental, health, and safety matters. Anna Metham is a key name on asset management matters.

      Practice head(s):

      Suzanne Benson; Tonia Secker

      Other key lawyers:

      Key clients

      Medivet Group Limited

      Step Places

      Latimer Developments Limited/Clarion Housing Group

      CERT Property

      Swanton Care and Community Limited

      Caretech Group

      Chalegrove Properties Limited/City Pride

      Federated Hermes Property Unit Trust

      AnyNest Limited

      Tatton Group

      Homes England

      St Helens Borough Council

      Cringle Corporation

      Wolverhampton City Council

      Countryside PLC

      Bury MBC

      Warwick District Council

      Ainscough Strategic Land Limited

      Work highlights

      • Advising Medivet Group Limited on their share and business acquisitions of individual veterinary practices.
      • Acting for Federated Hermes Property Unit Trust on the asset management of their property portfolio; including numerous sales, purchases, leases lease renewals, consent applications and re-gears, as well as a number of complex letting scenarios involving back to back deals.
      • Advising Great Places Housing Association on the acquisition of several schemes in the regeneration of Ancoats and New Islington areas of Manchester for development purposes, including schemes at Laystall Street, Downley Drive and the former Ancoats Dispensary.

      Real estate > Property litigation Tier 4

      The team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP have 'considerable experience in property litigation', advising clients on both commercial and residential disputes. 'Absolutely superb' litigator Lynn James leads the practice - she has experience representing high-profile matters in the First Tier Tribunal, and has a particular focus on leasehold management disputes. Sam Coward handles matters for housing associations and public bodies.

      Practice head(s):

      Lynn James

      Other key lawyers:

      Testimonials

      ‘There is a superb level of expertise in commercial landlord and tenant cases in this team.’

      ‘Strong team for housing associations, lenders and others in the market with particular focus and requirements – highly favoured by many of their clients over other panel firms from what I can see.’

      ‘Lynn James is absolutely superb. Very easy to deal with, a real eye for detail, leaves no stone unturned. Totally dependable, and will go out of her way (days off, evenings, whenever) to fit in a needed conversation. Sam Coward also worth of mention as a strong associate, has been very impressive in the last year on several matters.’

      ‘Personable, professional and courteous. Happy to explain anything for those less knowledgeable clients (like me!) in a clear and concise way.’

      ‘A great team with considerable experience in property litigation. Has a breadth of experience both of high value private clients and also public bodies and government ministries.’

      ‘Trowers & Hamlins have an in depth knowledge of dealing with housing associations and are proactive in keeping us informed of current and new legislation and case law. They also offer a range of free training sessions which are invaluable.’

      ‘I have worked closely with Lynn James who has a great understanding of shared ownership, leases and transfers. We have benefitted greatly from her advice, particularly with cases where an application has been made to the First Tier Property Tribunal. Lynn responds very quickly and goes the extra mile to make sure we have a full understanding of the law and explains things clearly.’

      ‘I would also mention Sam Coward who is very knowledgeable in the management of our commercial portfolio. Sam has provided one to one training and, again, explained things in a very simple way which we greatly appreciate.’

      Key clients

      Manchester Life Management Limited

      The Guinness Partnership Limited

      Accent Housing Limited

      One Vision Housing Limited

      The Riverside Group Limited

      Great Places Housing Group

      Moat Homes Limited

      CareTech Holdings PLC

      Secretary of State for Education

      London & Quadrant Housing Trust

      Hyde Housing Association

      St Helens Council

      Work highlights

      • Advised One Vision Housing Limited on an application for dispensation under Section 20ZA of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
      • Advised The Guinness Partnership Limited on an application for dispensation under Section 20ZA of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.

      Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence; claimant Tier 4

      Accidents at work and road traffic accidents are two core strengths for Trowers & Hamlins LLP, which acts for clients who have suffered orthopaedic, soft tissue and brain injuries as well as amputations. The team is jointly led by Bronwen Courtenay-Stamp and Ian Brown; Courtenay-Brown is noted for her focus on injuries which happen abroad. Tom Sampford is another name to note in the team.

      Practice head(s):

      Bronwen Courtney-Stamp; Ian Brown

      Other key lawyers:

      Work highlights

        Real estate > Construction Tier 4

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP joins the ranking with a construction practice that sports expertise across the areas of development and regeneration, the public sector, housing and education, amongst others. The team also fields extensive know-how on construction disputes; this side of the practice is headed by Oliver Williams in Exeter, while London-based Stephanie Canham leads on the non-contentious side of the practice. Associate Lydia Stuart-Banks and solicitor Tao Smart are further key contacts.

        Practice head(s):

        Oliver Williams; Stephanie Canham

        Other key lawyers:

        Key clients

        Wessex Reserve Forces and Cadets Association

        Devonshire Homes Limited

        Department for Education

        Abri Limited

        Octopus

        Gartner

        Vengrove

        Ravelin Housing Group Limited

        Vistry Partnerships

        Moss Property Investments

        Work highlights

        • Acted for the Department for Education in relation to a number of projects, drafting and negotiating building contracts as well as having construction input into the ancillary documents such as agreements for lease.
        • Acted for Abri Group in relation to the purchase of a disused brewery site in Southville, Bristol with a view to development for demolition and refurbishment with construction of 107 residential units with communal space/ office workspace and commercial workspace
        • Advised the Wessex Reserve Forces and Cadets Association on a number of construction matters this year, including advising on and negotiating a JCT ICD 2016 build contract relating to the construction of their new build store/office and associated external works.

        Real estate > Planning Tier 4

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP joins the ranking with a planning practice based in Exeter that is sought after by local authorities, central government departments, and registered providers alongside a number of private sector clients. Practice head Rory Stracey specialises in planning, highways and compulsory purchase matters. Associate Sophie Emerson regularly handles development and regeneration projects for local authorities and developers.

        Practice head(s):

        Rory Stracey

        Other key lawyers:

        Key clients

        Vivid Homes

        Westminster City Council

        East Devon District Council

        Clarion Housing Association Limited

        Vision Nine Entertainment Group

        Countryside Properties UK Plc

        Vistry

        LiveWest

        Sevenoaks District Council

        Richborough Estates

        Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust

        Bolkok Housing

        Verto Homes

        Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust

        The Hill Group

        Guildford Borough Council

        Wirral Borough Council

        ExCeL London

        Kent County Council

        Richmond Housing Partnership

        Work highlights

        • Acted for Countryside Properties on the negotiation of an s106 agreement relating to the development of Drakelow Park, an 80-hectare urban extension where it intends to build approximately 1,500 homes alongside major investment in community amenities, education and infrastructure.
        • Acting for Westminster City Council on the strategic planning aspects of the proposed Church Street Masterplan area, a mixed use scheme adjacent to Edgware Road involving up to 1,750 new homes.
        • Advising Hill Residential on the planning aspects of its regeneration scheme for the Douglas Bader Estate, Barnet, North London.

        Real estate > Property litigation Tier 4

        Described as ‘commercial, efficient and easy to get on with’, Trowers & Hamlins LLP acts for all principal stakeholders in a broad range of sectors. This incudes residential service charge disputes and tenancy enforcement as well as property related insolvency and real estate litigation in the telecoms sector. The Exeter department is able to draw on the firms wider expertise across offices in London, Birmingham and Manchester when needed, and is led by Emma Barnfield, who transferred from London to Exeter in June 2021 and acts primarily on behalf of institutional landlords and local authorities.

        Practice head(s):

        Emma Barnfield

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘They provide extremely good quality work and have a wide and varied client base. They are one of the fastest growing teams in the South West and are a pleasure to work with. Commercial, efficient and easy to get on with.’

        ‘Emma Barnfield heads up the team and is a leading partner in the area of Property Litigation. Charlotte Brasher is one to watch for the future.’

        ‘The practice is excellent. The firm is a market leader with an extraordinary array of clients. Real superstars.’

        ‘The team are very adept at collaborative working so that one of the team can seamlessly step into any situation without the need for repetition of background or instructions.’

        ‘A number of the individuals in this team have shown a practical side so that common sense works alongside the technical expertise.’

        Key clients

        Westminster City Council

        Delph Property Group

        J D Wetherspoon plc

        Caprice Group

        First Abu Dhabi Bank

        National Bank of Kuwait

        Kent County Council

        LiveWest Homes

        Devonshire Homes Limited

        East Devon District Council

        AXA Real Estate

        Hermes Investment

        Richmond Housing Partnership

        Homes England

        Tansor (Cornbow) Limitged

        Heritage Homes Limited

        Arc Legal Assistance Ltd

        Work highlights

        • Retained as sole legal adviser in relation to Westminster City Council’s rooftop telecommunications portfolio.
        • Advising Delph Property Investments in its capacity as the long leasehold owner of 33 residential units in a large residential unit in Bristol on its ability to take action against the freehold owner and management company for lack of compliance with their repairing obligations.
        • Advised Julian Clarke and Matthew Nagle of Savills as receivers on their duties in respect of the intended sale of the freehold interest in the asset, 30 Queen’s Gate Terrace, London.

        Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Birmingham Tier 4

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP fields a robust corporate and commercial offering, working on a mix of transactional and advisory mandates for clients in healthcare, tech, sports, and venture capital. Mathew Harvey is noted for his expertise in manufacturing and automotive sector deals, as well as his burgeoning focus on telecare acquisitions. Amardeep Gill advises various public sector organisations on high-profile commercial projects, most recently in relation to 5G rollouts and the Commonwealth Games. Moad Giebaly specialises in UK private equity company buy-out and M&A deals, while senior associate Mike McMahon focuses on venture capital investment transactions.

        Practice head(s):

        Mathew Harvey; Amardeep Gill

        Other key lawyers:

        Key clients

        Shareholders of Alanto Limited

        Colmore Partners Limited

        Midven Limited

        Progress Housing Limited

        Doro AB

        Medivet Group Limited

        Abu Dhabi National Oil Company

        Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult Limited

        Birmingham City Council

        WM5G Limited

        West Midlands Combined Authority

        Transport for West Midlands

        Work highlights

        • Advised the shareholders of Alanto Limited in connection with the sale of the entire issued share capital of the Company to Jacobs & Thompson Inc.
        • Acting for Medivet Group Limited on their share and business acquisitions of individual veterinary practices.
        • Advising Birmingham City Council in its capacity as host city for the Commonwealth Games.

        Employment Tier 4

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP is currently instructed on numerous employment tribunal cases for employers. It handles a diverse mix of private, public and third sector work spread across a broad range of sectors such as housing, charity, construction/development, retail and leisure. The ‘solution focusedRebecca McCormick heads the department.

        Practice head(s):

        Testimonials

        The employment team is particularly knowledgeable on the social housing sector. They have throughout the pandemic been offering free weekly virtual employment webinars on current topics which have been really valuable and are of added value. We use Rebecca McGuirk a lot and she provides very sound advice which is practical rather than theoretical and balances legal advice and business reality. She has also provided value add support in terms of free clinics to our People Team a couple of times a year‘.

        We work very well with the team at Trowers and they work professionally, efficiently and provide great overall support and advice. I work mainly with Rebecca McGuirk. It is frustrating when legal advisors sit on the fence when giving advice (I have found this with other competitors) but I don’t get this from Rebecca at Trowers & Hamlins, she has a no-nonsense, direct approach. She gives us sound advice and good guidance on complex matters. She works efficiently. I can rely on her for support whenever I need her‘.

        ‘The team has a wide range of skills meaning there is always someone who can help with our different questions and issues. They are supportive, friendly and commercially minded. Rebecca McGuirk is practical and pragmatic with her advice and support, she helps me solve the issues I have rather than telling me what I have to do. She has a wealth of knowledge’.

        ‘Makes you feel like an important customer. Rebecca McGuirk – very customer focussed and professional. Good understanding of our business environment. Highly responsive – even out of hours. Excellent service provided‘.

        The whole approach is one of customer focus. They listen, support and give guidance in a clear non-jargon way and give recommendations on possible solutions that I would not have considered. They increased their social media presence during the pandemic, and held some invaluable online learning and updates to give us all some peace of mind‘.

        ‘I have worked with Rebecca McGuirk on a fair number of complex cases and have always felt able to pick up the phone to be able to ask the ‘stupid’ questions. As a care provider have faced a number of covid related queries and concerns that Rebecca has always been up to date and knowledgeable on in a very short space of time following government announcement/changes to regulations‘.

        ‘The responsiveness – direct access to who you need/ always available which is critical for some urgent HR issues. Ability to cut through complex cases and provide sound advice in plain English. Friendliness – always a pleasure to work with. Added value they bring – bring good practice from work with others/ put in touch with others/ free training which is of a fantastic standard’.

        ‘Rebecca McGuirk is an incredibly talented lawyer. Stands out from competitors due to: Always accessible, responsive when needed. Brings incredible insight/ good practice above and beyond the advice being sought. Brings a huge amount of added value to the relationship. Qualities are personal friendly approach, ability to get legal issues over in a straightforward way- no matter how complex, works hard to maintain great relationships, complete trust in advice/guidance built on years of support‘.

        Key clients

        believe Housing

        Bethphage

        Black Country Housing Group

        Bournville Village Trust

        Community Gateway Association

        CORE Education Trust

        GreenSquareAccord

        Longhurst Group

        Midland Heart

        The Trident Group

        Work highlights

        • Supporting the Community Gateway Association on all of its HR, employment and pensions issues. In particular, it has advised the Community Gateway Association on a complex employment tribunal claim brought by a zero hours worker. The client successfully defended the claim and it was reported in the press. It was the first reported case to consider pregnancy discrimination in the context of measures introduced by an employer in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
        • Supporting GreenSquareAccord on all of its HR/ employment issues. Over the past year much of the support and advice it has given has been around Covid-19 and its impact on their workforce and customers, in particular the mandating of Covid-19 vaccinations. The team also assisted them and continues to do so, with a number of employment tribunal claims.
        • Supporting CORE Education Trust on all of its HR/ employment issues. Over the past year much of the support and advice the practice has given has been in relation to complex grievances, disciplinaries and issues around underperforming employees, as well as support with a number of employment tribunal claims.

        Real estate > Property litigation Tier 4

        Well-regarded for its capabilities in commercial and residential disputes, Trowers & Hamlins LLP is a strong choice for a number of local authorities, housing trusts, and property managers. Practice head Michael Green is a highly experienced advisor to both private and public sector clients, with recent highlights including vacant possession strategy reviews, and High Court trials regarding claims of fraud. The seasoned practitioner Guy Willetts focuses on property disputes involving social housing clients, working with a diverse roster of registered providers, both within the region and beyond. Senior associate Laura Vernon is noted for her expertise in rights of light matters. Associate Neerali Madhvani is also recommended.

        Practice head(s):

        Michael Green

        Testimonials

        ‘The team helped to bring a conclusion to a long running and rather thorny dispute. In practice, the issue was not especially complex, but the actions of the other side presented an ongoing challenge. The team worked well with a KC and through mediation to reach a settlement out of court.

        ‘Michael Green was a reassuring presence throughout the dispute, advising on strategy and next steps and providing great experience and insight.’

        ‘Laura Vernon is highly dynamic, responsive, and knowledgeable. Tactically astute and added great value to the process.’

        ‘A very knowledgeable team that will recommend and seek specialist support from colleagues or escalate complex matters as necessary to ensure that the practice provides a high quality service.’

        ‘Trowers go above and beyond to meet clients deadlines and expectations. In periods of absence they will ensure that all cases are covered by another member of the team. Open and upfront and maintain transparency of billing.’

        Key clients

        Westminster City Council (Investment Property)

        Kent County Council

        The Extracare Charitable Trust

        West Midlands Metropolitan Authorities Pension Fund

        Metropolitan Housing Trust

        Bournville Village Trust

        Paragon Asra Housing Limited

        Mainstay Residential Limited

        Rooftop Housing Group

        Countryside Properties PLC

        Work highlights

        • Acted for a Birmingham based property investment partnership in defending a complex multi-million property trust claim, including allegations of fraud, resulting in a 14-day trial in 2021.
        • Acting for Kent County Council on a number of contentious property matters arising across their portfolio, including a wide range of landlord & tenant and real property disputes.
        • Acting for Countryside Properties Plc in place of its previous solicitors in respect of a restrictive covenant dispute.

        Crime, fraud and licensing > Fraud: civil Tier 5

        Areas of expertise for the team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP include acting for public, private and third-sector organisations in investigations and recovery actions as well as freezing injunction applications, often cross-border in nature and involving litigation funders. The group also supports its clients in cyber fraud cases as well as in compliance and risk management matters. Lucy James is noted for her wide commercial litigation practice and Alex Burton has experience in the Middle East. The team is led by Birmingham-based Helen Briant.

        Practice head(s):

        Helen Briant

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘Easy to communicate, friendly & flexibility, creative & problem solving organisation, attention to detail.’

        ‘Excellent all-round service.’

        ‘Hard-working and professional.’

        Key clients

        Project Abacus

        Sayacorp B.S.C. (c)

        Tradition Singapore (Pte) Limited

        LiveWest Homes Limited

        PDC Limited

        ADNOC

        Work highlights

        • Instructed on behalf of 450 investors who suffered losses as a result of a potentially fraudulent property scheme operated by the Alpha and Green Parks group of companies.
        • Acting for Sayacorp who is a claimant in proceedings in the Abu Dhabi Global Market Court claiming default by NMC Healthcare Limited (in administration) and by guarantors of its obligations in connection with a substantial Islamic financing facility.
        • Advised a company in relation to an internal investigation and potential claims available to it regarding improper business practices and diversion of business conducted by employees of a business acquired by the client.

        Employment > Pensions (non-contentious) Tier 5

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP's pensions group brings together public, private and charitable sector expertise, advising sponsors of occupational pension schemes, and trustees. The team is led by Martin McFall, rated by clients for being 'excellent at explaining complicated pensions issues in a straightforward manner', who is experienced in benefit restructuring, liability management and scheme wind-ups. In November 2021, Rebecca McKay left for an in-house position with Just Group.

        Practice head(s):

        Martin McFall

        Testimonials

        ‘Martin McFall is extremely responsive and commercially focused. He’s excellent at explaining complicated pensions issues in a straightforward manner. He is an absolute pleasure to work with and I always know I can trust his advice to be spot on.’

        ‘Trowers have a deep understanding of the social housing sector with a breath of expertise in all matters relating to general and M&A advice.’

        ‘Martin McFall has an excellent understanding of the social housing sector and the important role pensions advice has in M&A activity. Martin has excellent relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders, helping smooth communications and improving the pace of a transaction.’

        Key clients

        Bristows LLP

        Incommunities Limited

        Flagship Housing

        London Borough of Hillingdon

        National Autistic Society

        Toyota plc

        Youth First

        Brighton & Hove City Council

        Cheshire Pension Fund

        Bic

        Vivendi S.A

        Karbon Homes

        Paradigm Housing

        Work highlights

        • Advised Bristows and Waterland on its acquisition of the Priory Group from Acadia Healthcare for £1,078 million.
        • Advised global brand Bic on its legacy UK pension arrangement and resolving disputed pensions overpayments for scheme members
        • Advised Karbon Homes on a complex restructuring of its pension arrangements under the Local Government Pension Scheme.

        Real estate > Property finance Tier 5

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP has a growing private sector real estate finance offering, which includes both lenders and borrowers. The team is particularly adept at handling social housing finance and public sector finance, as well as transactions involving assets in the healthcare, hotels and leisure, student accommodation and logistics sectors. Adrian Carter sits at the helm of the department, which is also home to property finance specialist Eddie O’Hanrahan, who advises developers, sponsors, funds and offshore trusts on domestic and cross-border transactions, especially regarding development finance. Banking and finance lawyer Katharine Lewis is also of note, and supports clients on Shari’ah complaint transactions.

        Practice head(s):

        Other key lawyers:

        Eddie O’Hanrahan; Dale Moulden; Jon Grosvernor; Katharine Lewis

        Testimonials

        ‘The team has a diverse range of expertise in property finance, with a good breath of knowledge and experience. The commercial awareness of the team and ability to think about and pre-empt client needs and business sensitivities is excellent.’

        ‘As well as being very easy to work with, the Trowers & Hamlins team are really strong and experienced in cross border financing transactions involving inward investment into UK real estate, particularly development structures and Islamic finance.’

        ‘They are always communicative and responsive, and they are generally a pleasure to work with.’

        ‘Katharine Lewis provides clear instructions on offshore pieces and is always available to discuss matters. She keeps the client updated on timing and expectations (including on fees) which is greatly appreciated. Katharine is very personable, knowledgeable and a pleasure to deal with.’

        ‘Katharine Lewis is calm, organised, and leads from the front.’

        ‘Katharine is an excellent lawyer with close attention to detail and the ability to think broadly about all pertinent issues. She is a very effective project manager and is reliable and consistent.’

        ‘Dale Moulden is excellent in Islamic finance transactions.’

        ‘Eddie O’Hanrahan and Jon Grosvernor both deliver excellent service.’

        Key clients

        Third.i Group

        Apache Capital Partners

        Audley Group

        Vistry

        Global Net Lease Inc.

        Affordable Housing & Healthcare Group

        Urban Logistics REIT PLC

        Shawbrook Bank Limited

        EcoWorld

        Peabody Trust

        Swanton Care & Community Limited

        Work highlights

        • Advising US REIT Global Net Lease on the financing of its £170M purchase of the McLaren F1 Campus in Surrey.
        • Advising Third.i Group on a £128m loan facility arranged by Cheyne Capital for the acquisition and development of Graphite Square, London SE11.
        • Advising Apache Capital on a multi-staged financing for the acquisition and development of a 564 unit build to rent scheme.

        TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 5

        Start-ups, SMEs and multi-national clients, particularly in the oil and gas sector, trust the IP team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP. The team continues to be instructed by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company and its subsidiaries, as well as also advising clients from the consumer goods and fashion, retail, leisure and hospitality, manufacturing, and construction industries. Caroline Hayward leads the team, which advises on both contentious and non-contentious matters, with recent highlights including acting in a number of trade mark infringement and passing off claims.

        Practice head(s):

        Caroline Hayward

        Other key lawyers:

        Alice Gould

        Testimonials

        ‘The team are very responsive and when we have an issue or want to pursue an IP issue, the the team can put together a robust game plan to effectively resolve the issue.’

        ‘The individuals are very response and able to carry out the work in a quick time period, and I have recommended them to other businesses I work with.’

        ‘Very responsive and precise advice, very competent in trade mark issues.’

        ‘Caroline Hayward is an excellent, precise and efficiently working lawyer, diligent in legal analysis and good pragmatic approach on the commercial issues. Also, she is a very nice person to work with.’

        ‘I think that people working at Trowers & Hamlins in the IP division are unique since they have great attention to client’s needs, they are very responsive; they provide useful advice which allow clients to make decisions based on their needs. There is a human approach in the sense that IP professionals working with this firm provide advice to try and solve matters without going to Court, if possible.’

        ‘I work with Alice Gould and her team. She has great attention to client’s needs and is very responsive. She provides advice to try and solve matters without going to Court, if possible. I appreciate that I can easily call her and discuss matters on the phone in order to find solutions to a given problem.’

        ‘The team is very friendly and approachable with a great depth of knowledge and an ability to explain the most complicated of legal situations in an easily accessible and understandable manner.’

        ‘Caroline Hayward is very friendly and knowledgeable and always has the time for any level of legal problem.’

        Key clients

        Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)

        ADNOC Distribution PJSC

        Mitsubishi (Mitsubishi Logisnext Europe B.V and Mitsubishi Logisnext Co. Ltd)

        Matrix JVCo Ltd

        Argex NV, Hye Group

        Rosemont Pharmaceuticals Limited

        Flexi-Hex Ltd

        London International Exhibition Centre plc (ExCeL)

        CFA Society of the UK

        Currie & Brown International Limited

        Apache Capital Partners

        Royal United Services Institute (RUSI)

        Peabody Trust

        Orbit Housing Group

        Metroconsult

        Kin Architects Limited

        Origin Housing Group

        Aster Group Limited

        The shareholders of The Flavourworks Group Limited

        Catapult Network

        Work highlights

        • Advising Mitsubishi on enforcement actions in respect of trade marks and a registered design relating to one of its main product lines.
        • Advising on and co-ordinating a worldwide filing and protection programme for the ADNOC trade marks and contentious actions in a range of jurisdictions in relation to trade mark and copyright enforcement.
        • Acting for Argex NV in High Court proceedings against a competitor in relation to trade mark infringement and passing off.

        Employment Tier 5

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises private, public, and third sector clients on hybrid working, vaccination and mask refusal, day-to-day employment matters, and D&I projects. Employment team head Danielle Ingham  focuses on TUPE, reorganisations, and collective redundancies. In July 2021, the team saw two promotions: Vikki Cunliffe was made associate and Laura Welchew was promoted to managing associate. Cunliffe is a key contact regarding strategic employment projects such as TUPE and corporate transactions while Welchew regularly represents clients at the Employment Tribunal.

        Practice head(s):

        Danielle Ingham

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘The team works very well together internally. Although we have one main contact, we can rely on the whole team to understand our needs and situation if we ever need to deal with a different team member.’

        ‘My loyalty is driven by the strength of their employment practice which provides practical, pragmatic, personal and highly professional support across the entire range of people management issues and whoever you engage with. They are a shining example of a real commitment to creating an inclusive practice and are champions of diversity, equity and belonging.’

        ‘Laura Welchew is an outstanding member of the team and has been a cornerstone of our legal support for many, many years.’

        ‘They are very responsive and demonstrate a clear and strong understanding of the issues and challenges which, as a small charity, we face. There is never a sense of us being deprioritised for potentially larger clients.’

        ‘Laura Welchew particularly stands out. She is very approachable, proactive and always friendly in her approach. Whilst always professional, her advice is accessible, pragmatic and focused. Highly recommended.’

        ‘Vikki Cunliffe is a highly capable legal professional, who has always provided my organisation with considered and insightful legal advice in a reliable and responsive way, often to tight deadlines sometimes with little or no warning.’

        ‘Very accessible team, easy and personable to deal with, give sound advice and always responsive/fast turnarounds. Enjoy the style, quality and regularity of their free training and discussion forums – Trowers Tuesdays and others.’

        ‘ I really enjoy working with Vikki Cunliffe as she is reliable, accessible and has secured some excellent tribunal results for us. Accurate advice is a given, but Vikki offers excellent customer service with it and at associate level, offers good value for the quality of support received.’

        Key clients

        Costco Wholesale UK Limited

        Secret Escapes Limited

        Peabody Trust

        Dimensions (UK) Limited

        Community Gateway Association

        First Garden Cities Homes Limited

        Sense & Sense International

        Babington Business Limited

        Elm Court Garden Centre Limited

        Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing

        KW Digital Limited

        Granite Turner Limited

        Time 4U Limited

        Together Trust

        DNA Group Holdings Limited

        Together for Mental Wellbeing

        Apogee Associates Limited

        OTE Holdings Limited

        The Spacemaker Interiors Limited

        The Riverside Group Limited

        Mosscare St Vincent’s Housing Group Limited

        National Autistic Society

        One Housing Group Limited

        Avenues Group

        Work highlights

        • Successfully defended Costco against a five day unfair dismissal and disability discrimination claim from a long-serving former employee with a history of multiple grievances and absences.
        • Acted as Secret Escapes’ exclusive provider of employment law support and conducting a global contract review across its locations in the UK, Europe and Asia.
        • Successfully defended Community Gateway Association (CGA) in a complex Employment Tribunal claimregarding pregnancy discrimination in the context of measures introduced by an employer during the COVID-19 pandemic.

        Employment > Employers Tier 6

        Demonstrating ‘strength in depth’ Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘ practice is led by Emma Burrows who leads on business transformations, TUPE, inclusivity measures and managing senior staff exits and board disputes. Nicola Ihnatowicz is another key partner advising on sustainable workforces and providing HR support.

        Practice head(s):

        Emma Burrows

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘There is strength in depth. When the excellent lawyer that was advising me had to take an unavoidable leave of absence another partner stepped in who was also excellent.’

        ‘They are extremely knowledgeable, reliable and efficient.’

        ‘They are friendly; not at all stuffy, with a sense of humour.’

        ‘Nicola Ihnatowicz is a top-tier employment lawyer that combines personal skills with outstanding subject matter knowledge.’ 

        ‘Their advice is always very detailed and incredibly useful. It is the best legal employment advice I’ve ever had.’

        ‘Trowers Tuesday development sessions are very useful. We have had bespoke training from them which was also excellent. They have also been key to our HR policy review. Nothing phases them!’

        ‘Emma Burrows – Great leadership of the employment team we deal with as a whole and sets the expectations and standards we receive. Knows our industry and its challenges.’

        ‘Emma Burrows heads up the employment law and pensions division. She is always a pleasure to work with and is very clear and very supportive. She is genuinely interested in the work of our sector and the value it adds to society.’

        Key clients

        Clarion Housing Group

        Save the Children UK

        Currie & Brown International Limited

        The Disabilities Trust

        Numerical Algorithms Group

        Inflexion Private Equity Partners LLP

        Southwark Council

        English Heritage Trust

        Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

        Work highlights

        • Advised Save the Children on a sensitive and strategic matter affecting the internationally renowned charity.
        • Advised a large number of employers operating in the social care sector on the implementation and subsequently abandoned regulations requiring compulsory vaccination against COVID.
        • Acted for Inflexion LLP and a range of their portfolio companies on matters of strategic importance and significant value.

        Dispute resolution > International arbitration Tier 7

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP‘s international arbitration practice is best known for its Middle East expertise, along with its strength in infrastructure and construction arbitrations. Dividing his time between London and Dubai, Alexander Burton leads the international dispute management practice.

        Practice head(s):

        Alexander Burton

        Other key lawyers:

        Navinder Grover; Lucy James; James Ignotus; Eve Cristo; James Lancaster

        Testimonials

        ‘Down-to-earth approach, making often complex legal arguments easy to understand.’

        ‘Very approachable and always available.’

        A very strong team.

        ‘The team is very client committed and does a great job of getting stuck into the client team, allowing for a great working relationship.’

        ‘Excellent team – very quick to respond to queries.’

        Helps its clients handle stressful situations while maintaining good humour throughout.

        Key clients

        TransCanada Turbines

        Saudi Selevision Company

        AAL Group

        Work highlights

        • Acted for TransCanada Turbines (TCT) in resisting a section 69 Arbitration Act 1996 appeal against two arbitration awards in favour of TCT.
        • Represented Selevision Saudi Company in seeking to recognise and enforce a DIFC-LCIA arbitration award against beIN.
        • Acted for AAL Group (global helicopter leasing firm) in obtaining arbitration awards for approximately $20m.

        Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Manchester

        Dispute resolution > Debt recovery

        Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery

        Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP bolstered its corporate offering in January 2021 with the addition of Stuart Mathews from Kitsons LLP. Mathews now co-heads the team alongside Lynne Rathbone; the pair advise on corporate transactions including M&A, management buyouts and investments.

        Private client > Contentious trusts and probate

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP made a notable addition to its Exeter team in early 2022 with the hire of Charisse Crawford from Stephens Scown LLP – she specialises in private wealth disputes and asset protection issues.

        South West > Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall

        The Exeter-based practice at Trowers & Hamlins LLP recently expanded its expertise with the recruitment of Charisse Crawford, who joined from Stephens Scown LLP in 2021 and now leads the practice; Crawford attracts praise for her expertise in contentious trusts and probate work. The team also benefits from the firm’s wider network when acting in national and international claims, particularly in relation to insurance and commercial disputes and matters involving the Middle East. Senior associate Alexander Sharples is active in cross-border disputes and has knowledge of the energy, IT and defence sectors.

        Practice head(s):

        Charisse Crawford

        Other key lawyers:

        Alexander Sharples; Maria Dunn

        Testimonials

        ‘Excellent team from partner to legal exec – comprehensive and user friendly approach to client. Also commercially minded.’

        ‘Alex Sharples is a stand-out Senior Associate with a great track record. He gives clear, practical advice and brings a big-ticket litigation ethos to his matters. He will clearly be one to watch in Exeter.’

        Key clients

        Project Abacus (450 Claimants in major group action)

        Work highlights

        • Instructed on behalf of circa 450 investors who suffered losses as a result of a potentially fraudulent property scheme operated by the Alpha and Green Parks group of companies.

        South West > Real estate > Commercial property: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP brings to bear an impressive track record in development and property investments, as well as residential and mixed-use urban regeneration schemes. The firm counts local authorities, institutional investors and real estate investment trusts amongst its clients, for which it also offers extensive expertise in the area of ESG. The practice is headed by a trio consisting of London-based Tonia Secker, and Georgina Savill-James and Chris Rundle in Exeter, who both handle a significant volume of transactional matters. Nicholas Burt is experienced in advising on residential development and strategic land matters, while managing associate Gail White supports clients in both the private and public sector.

        Practice head(s):

        Tonia Secker; Georgina Savill-James; Chris Rundle

        Other key lawyers:

        Key clients

        Stevenage Borough Council

        Galliford Try Group (incorporating Linden Homes)

        British Telecommunications plc

        Verto Homes

        Legal & General Affordable Homes

        Boklok Housing

        Vistry Group

        LiveWest

        Civitas

        Kames Capital

        Freshwater Group of Companies

        Greendale Group

        Arbuthnot Latham

        Abri Group

        Hyde Group

        Phoenix Community Housing Association

        Ace Student Living – Edison Limited (Southampton)/Mozart Property Limited (Exeter)

        Work highlights

        • Acted for the Hyde Group in its formation of a strategic partnership with global investment firm M&G which will lead to the development of £500m new affordable homes.
        • Continuing to advise Vistry Group in respect of its acquisition and development of a site known as Daddon Hill in Northam, North Devon (value in excess of £100m) which will deliver 500 dwellings with associated amenities.
        • Advised Stevenage Borough Council on its strategic £65m sale of a site in Stevenage Town Centre for redevelopment to deliver a life sciences hub (cell and gene therapy), including negotiation of a Towns Fund public funding agreement with the buyer and the developer, and a buy-back option to protect against the risk of non-completion of the development.

        South West > Real estate > Construction

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP joins the ranking with a construction practice that sports expertise across the areas of development and regeneration, the public sector, housing and education, amongst others. The team also fields extensive know-how on construction disputes; this side of the practice is headed by Oliver Williams in Exeter, while London-based Stephanie Canham leads on the non-contentious side of the practice. Associate Lydia Stuart-Banks and solicitor Tao Smart are further key contacts.

        Practice head(s):

        Oliver Williams; Stephanie Canham

        Other key lawyers:

        Key clients

        Wessex Reserve Forces and Cadets Association

        Devonshire Homes Limited

        Department for Education

        Abri Limited

        Octopus

        Gartner

        Vengrove

        Ravelin Housing Group Limited

        Vistry Partnerships

        Moss Property Investments

        Work highlights

        • Acted for the Department for Education in relation to a number of projects, drafting and negotiating building contracts as well as having construction input into the ancillary documents such as agreements for lease.
        • Acted for Abri Group in relation to the purchase of a disused brewery site in Southville, Bristol with a view to development for demolition and refurbishment with construction of 107 residential units with communal space/ office workspace and commercial workspace
        • Advised the Wessex Reserve Forces and Cadets Association on a number of construction matters this year, including advising on and negotiating a JCT ICD 2016 build contract relating to the construction of their new build store/office and associated external works.

        North West > Public sector > Local government

        The team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP is praised for its ‘deep understanding of local government clients’ needs’. Key areas of work include regeneration schemes, public sector infrastructure projects, local authority housing developments as well as governance and strategy advice. Together with Scott Dorling in London, Suzanne Benson co-heads the practice; she specializes in major projects and the development of housing projects. Also to note is Richard St John Williams, who focuses on affordable housing.

        Practice head(s):

        Suzanne Benson; Scott Dorling

        Other key lawyers:

        Richard St John Williams; Matthew Holbrook; Darren Ashworth; Dan Butler

        Testimonials

        ‘The team work well together, across a range of specialisms to offer a responsive and professional service to Local Authority clients. They share a broad understanding of the drivers, constraints and legal complexity of local government businesses, and this, combined with the detailed knowledge and experience of each field, results in an efficient and effective service. They are good at ensuring the Brief is accurate, at setting realistic fee estimates and at alerting clients to approaching fee budget caps. Individuals are approachable and offer practical solutions to problems.’

        ‘I have worked with many individuals within Trowers, and all have been approachable, knowledgeable, and focussed on solutions to problems. They bring energy and drive to the team.’

        ‘The North West Affordable Team provide a holistic service with access to specialist Practitioners at a national level. The strength and depth of the service provided has been built up over 10s of years practice, working in the sector advising Government, Registered Providers, Local Authorities and other stakeholder maintaining long lasting relations with clients as a trusted, knowledgeable and skilled partner.’

        ‘Deep understanding of local government clients’ needs. Able to provide practical advice from often vague central government guidance.’

        ‘Suzanne Benson: Hugely experienced and able to get to the crux of a matter quickly and provide robust, actionable advice.’

        Key clients

        Warwick District Council

        Bury Council

        Lancaster City Council

        Urban Growth Company and Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

        Guildford Council

        Wirral Council

        West Midlands Combined Authority

        Lewisham Council

        Southwark Council

        Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council

        Warwick County Council

        Stockport Homes

        Work highlights

        • Advising Warwickshire County Council on the establishment of the Warwickshire Recovery and Investment Fund (WRIF)as a mechanism for implementing a programme of investment ranging from local communities and enterprise, through property and larger scale business interventions.
        • Acting for Warwickshire District Council on a development and collaboration agreement for the delivery of 248 new affordable homes in Kenilworth along with the related financing: an acquisition and development finance facility to a joint venture between Vistry Partnerships and the Council’s housing company, Milverton Homes
        • Advising Bury Council on strategic transactions relating to regeneration of the town. This has included advice, working alongside Deloitte, on strategic land acquisitions (including two shopping blocks) with associated lease backs for a new civic hub in Radcliffe.

        South West > Employment > Employment: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP's recent work has had a strong focus on the move to hybrid work, advising clients on the transition from office to flexi-working. The sizeable team also represents clients before the Employment Tribunal, overseeing matters concerning vaccinations, furlough schemes and safe working policies during the pandemic. Both Emma Burrows and John Turnbull head the practice. Burrows focus is on senior exits and board disputes, whilst Turnbull focuses on commercial matters.

        Practice head(s):

        Emma Burrows; John Turnbull

        Other key lawyers:

        Tom Stephenson; Stephanie Taylor

        Testimonials

        ‘We have always found Trowers & Hamlins to be professional and accurate with their advice. They provide us with all the facts in a timely manner, allowing us to confidently make employment and HR decisions. They are very approachable and accessible. We have never felt we are just a client. They know who we are, what we do and what we want to achieve. I always feel I can just pick up the phone and talk to them.’

        ‘Excellent knowledge of subject matter to answer queries. Clear advice both verbally and in writing.Is prepapred to give ‘proper’ advice as to ways to address issues, rather than ‘on the one hand this and on the other hand that’.’

        ‘Pragmatic commercially focused guidance – they let us know a range of options and the implications of each of them, rather than leading us down a set path. They understand our business in huge detail, and factor in our culture into all their discussions.’

        ‘The team in the Exeter office care about their clients and respond quickly and efficiently to questions we have asked.’

        ‘John Turnbull has given us prompt, good advice, which is invaluable to making store we stay on top of all HR functions within the company’

        ‘The team get to know your business and what it is that you need. The team run a weekly event which looks at different relevant topics and also co-create training sessions to develop managers.’

        ‘John Turnbull and Tom Stephenson are brilliant at adapting their communication and I really appreciate the honest conversations we can have which help us get to the best solution faster.’

        ‘John Turnbull is flexible in his approach, with a consideration for commerciality.’

        Key clients

        Smiths (Gloucester) Limited

        Otter Nurseries Limited

        Dimensions UK Limited

        Devonshire Homes Limited

        LiveWest Homes Limited

        Richmond Housing Partnership

        Ampacet (UK) Limited

        Inter‐line Building Supplies Limited

        CCS Media Ltd

        1848 Ltd

        Currie & Brown International Limited

        Inflexion Private Equity Partners LLP

        Swanton Care & Community

        Work highlights

        • Advised client on employment and pensions issues, including complex ET claims; equality issues; TUPE; and changes to terms and conditions.
        • Advised client on Covid vaccination compliance workplace policies.

        North West > Real estate > Commercial property: Manchester

        The team at Trowers & Hamlins LLP undertakes a range of real estate work including commercial acquisitions, large regeneration projects, and leisure facilities. Tonia Secker leads the national real estate practice from London, while major projects specialist Suzanne Benson heads up the Manchester team. Matthew Holbrook handles commercial property matters, and Amanda Stubbs has extensive expertise in environmental, health, and safety matters. Anna Metham is a key name on asset management matters.

        Practice head(s):

        Suzanne Benson; Tonia Secker

        Other key lawyers:

        Key clients

        Medivet Group Limited

        Step Places

        Latimer Developments Limited/Clarion Housing Group

        CERT Property

        Swanton Care and Community Limited

        Caretech Group

        Chalegrove Properties Limited/City Pride

        Federated Hermes Property Unit Trust

        AnyNest Limited

        Tatton Group

        Homes England

        St Helens Borough Council

        Cringle Corporation

        Wolverhampton City Council

        Countryside PLC

        Bury MBC

        Warwick District Council

        Ainscough Strategic Land Limited

        Work highlights

        • Advising Medivet Group Limited on their share and business acquisitions of individual veterinary practices.
        • Acting for Federated Hermes Property Unit Trust on the asset management of their property portfolio; including numerous sales, purchases, leases lease renewals, consent applications and re-gears, as well as a number of complex letting scenarios involving back to back deals.
        • Advising Great Places Housing Association on the acquisition of several schemes in the regeneration of Ancoats and New Islington areas of Manchester for development purposes, including schemes at Laystall Street, Downley Drive and the former Ancoats Dispensary.

        West Midlands > Employment > Employment

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP is currently instructed on numerous employment tribunal cases for employers. It handles a diverse mix of private, public and third sector work spread across a broad range of sectors such as housing, charity, construction/development, retail and leisure. The ‘solution focusedRebecca McCormick heads the department.

        Practice head(s):

        Testimonials

        The employment team is particularly knowledgeable on the social housing sector. They have throughout the pandemic been offering free weekly virtual employment webinars on current topics which have been really valuable and are of added value. We use Rebecca McGuirk a lot and she provides very sound advice which is practical rather than theoretical and balances legal advice and business reality. She has also provided value add support in terms of free clinics to our People Team a couple of times a year‘.

        We work very well with the team at Trowers and they work professionally, efficiently and provide great overall support and advice. I work mainly with Rebecca McGuirk. It is frustrating when legal advisors sit on the fence when giving advice (I have found this with other competitors) but I don’t get this from Rebecca at Trowers & Hamlins, she has a no-nonsense, direct approach. She gives us sound advice and good guidance on complex matters. She works efficiently. I can rely on her for support whenever I need her‘.

        ‘The team has a wide range of skills meaning there is always someone who can help with our different questions and issues. They are supportive, friendly and commercially minded. Rebecca McGuirk is practical and pragmatic with her advice and support, she helps me solve the issues I have rather than telling me what I have to do. She has a wealth of knowledge’.

        ‘Makes you feel like an important customer. Rebecca McGuirk – very customer focussed and professional. Good understanding of our business environment. Highly responsive – even out of hours. Excellent service provided‘.

        The whole approach is one of customer focus. They listen, support and give guidance in a clear non-jargon way and give recommendations on possible solutions that I would not have considered. They increased their social media presence during the pandemic, and held some invaluable online learning and updates to give us all some peace of mind‘.

        ‘I have worked with Rebecca McGuirk on a fair number of complex cases and have always felt able to pick up the phone to be able to ask the ‘stupid’ questions. As a care provider have faced a number of covid related queries and concerns that Rebecca has always been up to date and knowledgeable on in a very short space of time following government announcement/changes to regulations‘.

        ‘The responsiveness – direct access to who you need/ always available which is critical for some urgent HR issues. Ability to cut through complex cases and provide sound advice in plain English. Friendliness – always a pleasure to work with. Added value they bring – bring good practice from work with others/ put in touch with others/ free training which is of a fantastic standard’.

        ‘Rebecca McGuirk is an incredibly talented lawyer. Stands out from competitors due to: Always accessible, responsive when needed. Brings incredible insight/ good practice above and beyond the advice being sought. Brings a huge amount of added value to the relationship. Qualities are personal friendly approach, ability to get legal issues over in a straightforward way- no matter how complex, works hard to maintain great relationships, complete trust in advice/guidance built on years of support‘.

        Key clients

        believe Housing

        Bethphage

        Black Country Housing Group

        Bournville Village Trust

        Community Gateway Association

        CORE Education Trust

        GreenSquareAccord

        Longhurst Group

        Midland Heart

        The Trident Group

        Work highlights

        • Supporting the Community Gateway Association on all of its HR, employment and pensions issues. In particular, it has advised the Community Gateway Association on a complex employment tribunal claim brought by a zero hours worker. The client successfully defended the claim and it was reported in the press. It was the first reported case to consider pregnancy discrimination in the context of measures introduced by an employer in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
        • Supporting GreenSquareAccord on all of its HR/ employment issues. Over the past year much of the support and advice it has given has been around Covid-19 and its impact on their workforce and customers, in particular the mandating of Covid-19 vaccinations. The team also assisted them and continues to do so, with a number of employment tribunal claims.
        • Supporting CORE Education Trust on all of its HR/ employment issues. Over the past year much of the support and advice the practice has given has been in relation to complex grievances, disciplinaries and issues around underperforming employees, as well as support with a number of employment tribunal claims.

        North West > Employment > Employment

        Trowers & Hamlins LLP advises private, public, and third sector clients on hybrid working, vaccination and mask refusal, day-to-day employment matters, and D&I projects. Employment team head Danielle Ingham  focuses on TUPE, reorganisations, and collective redundancies. In July 2021, the team saw two promotions: Vikki Cunliffe was made associate and Laura Welchew was promoted to managing associate. Cunliffe is a key contact regarding strategic employment projects such as TUPE and corporate transactions while Welchew regularly represents clients at the Employment Tribunal.

        Practice head(s):

        Danielle Ingham

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘The team works very well together internally. Although we have one main contact, we can rely on the whole team to understand our needs and situation if we ever need to deal with a different team member.’

        ‘My loyalty is driven by the strength of their employment practice which provides practical, pragmatic, personal and highly professional support across the entire range of people management issues and whoever you engage with. They are a shining example of a real commitment to creating an inclusive practice and are champions of diversity, equity and belonging.’

        ‘Laura Welchew is an outstanding member of the team and has been a cornerstone of our legal support for many, many years.’

        ‘They are very responsive and demonstrate a clear and strong understanding of the issues and challenges which, as a small charity, we face. There is never a sense of us being deprioritised for potentially larger clients.’

        ‘Laura Welchew particularly stands out. She is very approachable, proactive and always friendly in her approach. Whilst always professional, her advice is accessible, pragmatic and focused. Highly recommended.’

        ‘Vikki Cunliffe is a highly capable legal professional, who has always provided my organisation with considered and insightful legal advice in a reliable and responsive way, often to tight deadlines sometimes with little or no warning.’

        ‘Very accessible team, easy and personable to deal with, give sound advice and always responsive/fast turnarounds. Enjoy the style, quality and regularity of their free training and discussion forums – Trowers Tuesdays and others.’

        ‘ I really enjoy working with Vikki Cunliffe as she is reliable, accessible and has secured some excellent tribunal results for us. Accurate advice is a given, but Vikki offers excellent customer service with it and at associate level, offers good value for the quality of support received.’

        Key clients

        Costco Wholesale UK Limited

        Secret Escapes Limited

        Peabody Trust

        Dimensions (UK) Limited

        Community Gateway Association

        First Garden Cities Homes Limited

        Sense & Sense International

        Babington Business Limited

        Elm Court Garden Centre Limited

        Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing

        KW Digital Limited

        Granite Turner Limited

        Time 4U Limited

        Together Trust

        DNA Group Holdings Limited

        Together for Mental Wellbeing

        Apogee Associates Limited

        OTE Holdings Limited

        The Spacemaker Interiors Limited

        The Riverside Group Limited

        Mosscare St Vincent’s Housing Group Limited

        National Autistic Society

        One Housing Group Limited

        Avenues Group

        Work highlights

        • Successfully defended Costco against a five day unfair dismissal and disability discrimination claim from a long-serving former employee with a history of multiple grievances and absences.
        • Acted as Secret Escapes’ exclusive provider of employment law support and conducting a global contract review across its locations in the UK, Europe and Asia.
        • Successfully defended Community Gateway Association (CGA) in a complex Employment Tribunal claimregarding pregnancy discrimination in the context of measures introduced by an employer during the COVID-19 pandemic.

        The firm: Trowers & Hamlins is an international firm providing clear, practical advice to help clients achieve their objectives. The firm’s clients include banks, pension funds, institutional investors, private equity funds, developers, property companies, care home operators, public and private companies, local and central government departments, NHS trusts, registered providers (RPs), charities and individuals.

        Types of work undertaken: Through its UK and overseas offices, the firm has developed a dynamic corporate, commercial and litigation practice with particular strengths in real estate, care, education, energy, leisure, finance (including Islamic finance) and project work. The firm has built its reputation on helping government and businesses of all sizes improve the built environment all around us.

        The firm’s real estate experts advise on every stage of the lifetime of a real estate asset or development, including investment, planning, development, construction, asset management (including environmental advice) and funding. Built on a reputation for innovation and working at the forefront of changing legislation and market trends, the teams help institutional investors, developers, housebuilders, REITs, property companies, RPs, local authorities and private individuals to buy, sell, develop and manage their assets successfully. The firm has particular strength in advising on large-scale regeneration and development schemes, as well as student accommodation, care, healthcare, education and leisure projects. The firm’s projects and construction experts advise UK and global clients in a variety of sectors, spanning innovative PFI/PPP/DBFO project structures and joint venture/partnering initiatives.

        As leading lawyers to the housing sector, advising government bodies, local authorities, 250 RPs, developers, contractors, lenders and institutional investors, the firm plays a central and innovative role in policy making and the evolution of housing in the UK and around the world.

        The firm’s market-leading reputation for public sector expertise is built on helping government and private sector partners to create new and innovative ways to deliver public services, having advised on a substantial number of pathfinder private finance initiative (PFI) and innovative PPP schemes. Increasingly the firm advises on how to find new sources of income from the use of public land and assets. Particular areas of expertise include advising on stock transfer, housing market renewal, ALMOs, mutuals, education, strategic partnerships and outsourcing schemes, construction and partnering, care homes, leisure facilities, maintenance, administration and IT services.

        The corporate department is a substantial team with a strong reputation for advising public and private companies, both in the UK and overseas, entrepreneurs and individuals operating in the financial, property, industrial and commercial sectors.

        The litigation department helps clients to manage risk and to protect their business interests in the UK and internationally across commercial civil litigation, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and adjudication. The firm has particular strengths in public law, judicial review, banking, real estate, construction, insolvency, employment, travel insurance and personal injury work.

        The employment and pensions team helps organisations and businesses manage change, head off issues and tackle problems with pragmatic advice and progressive thinking. The team has the breadth and depth of employment, pensions and immigration law. Its clients are varied across corporate businesses and charities and third sector, but they all benefit from the firm’s diverse public and private sector experience, specialist technical expertise and sector knowledge.

        The private wealth department provides legal advice to individuals with industrial or commercial wealth, invested assets and landed estates. Key areas of work include tax planning, trusts, wills, probate, charities, the administration of trusts and estates, as well as the management of substantial real estate portfolios.

        The firm has a strong international practice, particularly in the Middle East, with offices in Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dubai and Oman. It is especially well-known for its work in real estate, construction, energy and infrastructure, and hotel and leisure, as well as its corporate expertise. The firm’s office in Malaysia supports a growing Far East client base.

        Trowers & Hamlins is a member of Interlaw, an international association of independent law firms with lawyers in more than 125 cities worldwide. As a member of Interlaw, it is able to quickly draw on the legal expertise and knowledge of this global network to support clients.

        Trowers & Hamlins is a member firm of the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) Legal Services Framework, which is a means for contracting authorities to access legal services.

        Other offices: Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Birmingham, Dubai, Exeter, Malaysia, Manchester, Oman.

        DepartmentNameEmailTelephone
        Senior partner Sara Bailey
        Banking and finance Adrian Carter
        Charities Ian Davis
        Commercial property Adrian Leavey
        Construction Stephanie Canham
        Corporate/corporate finance Tim Nye
        Employment Emma Burrows
        Environment Amanda Stubbs
        Housing Tonia Secker
        International Abdul-Haq Mohammed
        Litigation Paul Marco
        Pensions Martin McFall
        Planning Jacqueline Backhaus
        Private wealth Jonathan Kropman
        Public sector Scott Dorling
        Real estate Sara Bailey
        Real estate finance Adrian Carter
        Tax Andrew Sneddon
        PhotoNamePositionProfile
        Danielle Ingham photo Danielle InghamPartner
        Number of UK partners : 170
        Number of other UK fee-earners : 385