Matthew Gowen > Birketts LLP > Ipswich, England > Lawyer Profile

The regulatory and corporate defence practice at Birketts LLP has an ‘open and friendly approach to what can be a very confusing area for most people‘ and clients note that the lawyers are ‘happy to explain any terminology or processes fully‘. From private crime matters and the defence of national motor groups and companies in the road transport sector to food law and health and safety matters, the firm is a key adviser on complex cases. Barristers Matthew Gowen and the ‘highly skilled’ Julie Gowland in Ipswich are the lead practitioners. Associate Rebecca Utton is ‘very understanding and accomodating‘.

Birketts LLP handles the full spectrum of licensing and regulatory matters for clients in the leisure sector, including nightclubs, hotels, takeaway outlets, churches, public houses and concert promoters. Clients note that ‘the team is very knowledgeable, easily accessible and happy to help‘ and that the lawyers ‘speak in a down to earth manner and give sound and balanced advice‘. Barrister and head of licensing Julie Gowland in Norwich and fellow barrister Matthew Gowen in Ipswich are the key contacts. Gowland advised Borough Council of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk in a Crown court appeal in relation to breeding dogs without a licence.

Birketts LLP‘s team has extensive cross-industry experience in the defence of serious health and safety matters, including disasters and cases involving multiple fatalities. Many fee-earners in the regulatory and corporate defence practice have trained and worked as HSE inspectors. The team frequently handles disputes in the leisure and tourism, retail, aviation and construction industries. Ipswich-based Matthew Gowen leads the practice, assisted by June 2022-promoted partner Julie Gowland in Norwich and legal director Daniel Irving in Ipswich; all three are qualified barristers.