Firm Profile > Blake Morgan LLP > London, England
Blake Morgan LLP Offices
6 NEW STREET SQUARE
LONDON
EC4A 3DJ
England
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Blake Morgan LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Professional discipline Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's sizeable practice is best known for its representation of professional regulators, particularly in the fields of healthcare, legal, education, accountancy and engineering. The group has a strong track record appearing as counsel in appeals in the High Court, as well as first-tier and upper-tier tribunals. It also undertakes high-profile judicial review and Court of Appeal work. Reading-based Nick Leale heads up the professional discipline practice, while Bradley Albuery in Southampton leads the regulatory business group. In Cardiff, Graham Miles is a regulatory law specialist. Claire Rawle leads the health, safety and environmental team. The senior associates to note are Delme Griffiths, and Antonia Dowgray, James Danks and Guy Micklewright. Barrister Matthew Corrie is also recommended.
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Key clients
Nursing and Midwifery Council
General Dental Council
General Pharmaceutical Council
NHS England
Architects Registration Board
Teaching Regulation Agency
Social Care Wales
Education Workforce Council (Wales)
Institution of Mechanical Engineers
General Osteopathic Council
General Optical Council
Healthcare Tier 2
The team at Blake Morgan LLP focuses on complex and high-value transactions in the healthcare sector, as well as providing highly specialist support to NHS England, NHS Wales, and national private providers. The team also has expertise in public law, prison health, social care transactions, and GDPR compliance. Practice leader Bruce Potter focuses on PPPs, transactions, and private procurements. Cardiff-based health and social care head Eve Piffaretti advises on statutory interpretation of health and social care and regulatory law, while professor and consultant Richard Jones advises on mental health and community care law.
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Testimonials
‘We have always found Blake Morgan to be exceptionally helpful in our commercial discussions. They always add value to the process rather than just ticking the box, which is what we have experienced with some other firms. Blake Morgan take the time to understand the underlying issue and provide a range of legal solutions rather than simply quoting the law back at you. Their strengths are in procurement, drafting and application of appropriate commercial agreements. The way they work makes it feel as though they are an extension to the team rather than an external adviser.’
‘We always value Bruce Potter’s pragmatism and solutions-focus. Bruce has earned the confidence of the team, including that of our director. We can rely on Bruce to give us a straight answer when the law demands it and potential options for consideration when these are available.’
‘The team has a reassuring ability to provide sound legal advice whilst at the same time accurately reading a situation and judging the internal politics of an organisation. This combination of excellent people skills and sound legal advice makes the life of the in-house team so much easier. Blake Morgan has a fantastic ability to cut through the noise and get to the nub of the issue whilst keeping everyone on board.’
‘Speedy clear and concise advice. Considered as experts. I always prefer to go straight to Blake Morgan to avoid delay and ensure the advice is reliable.‘
‘Richard Jones stands out. You can always rely on Richard to respond almost immediately to most queries. He usually knows the answer off the top of his head and even the more complicated queries are responded to quickly and most importantly in a language that you can understand! On occasions where other legislation overlaps you can rely on Richard to ensure that you are handed over to the most appropriate person to assist.’
‘The practice has a wealth of knowledge and expertise. They are flexible, and accessible, ensuring the right person is always available to provide the appropriate advice and information.’
‘The individuals have an excellent range and depth on knowledge on their subject. Both Richard Jones and Eve Piffaretti are extremely knowledgeable and respected in their field. They are always approachable, and the advice they offer to practitioners has been helpful and practical. They have a good understanding of the challenges facing staff, and have are therefore able to offer appropriate, practical, and applicable advice.’
‘The Blake Morgan team always goes the extra mile to understand what we need and what we are trying to achieve. They have developed a real understanding of our business, and the challenges we face. We have worked with Bruce Potter for a number of years, and our board values the advice and support he offers. He is not afraid to challenge preconceptions and to expect the board and individual board members to challenge their preconceptions to ensure we provide the best care we can in the most effective way possible to ensure that we achieve our strategic objectives.’
Key clients
Various Charities
Oxford Academic Health Science Network
Circle Nottingham Limited
NHS England
The Welsh Ministers (WM)
Hywel Dda University Local Health Board
Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority
Charities and not-for-profit Tier 3
Blake Morgan LLP has offices in a number of locations throughout England and Wales, and as a result is well placed to advise charities, not-for-profit organisations and social enterprises nationally. It advises on a broad array of matters, including charity legacies, safeguarding, healthcare and charity retail under the leadership of legal director Ben Price. The practice also has considerable skill in advising corporate and unincorporated charitable and not-for-profit structures on issues such as mergers, joint ventures, income generation and governance matters.
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Testimonials
‘The Blake Morgan team provides a very personable service while always demonstrating a high degree of professionalism. Sector knowledge is excellent and queries are dealt with very promptly‘
‘Everyone my organisation has worked with at Blake Morgan displays a very grounded approach. They make even the most complex issues as easy as possible to understand if needed‘
‘Diligent and very client focused, empathetic to the client’s desired outcomes‘
‘The team is impressively responsive with replies to emails and calls being provided expeditiously‘
‘The team is completely aware of our own processes and requirements. This means a really smooth transaction process from beginning to end‘
‘Great experience of dealing with charity retail clients and has the knowledge to point out the nuances of particular transactions as relevant to us, so that any requirements/issues can be considered and dealt with ahead of time‘
‘Ben Brice always kept a cool head in the face of challenging behaviours and timescales from the other party, was very supportive and worked late in the evenings and over weekends to meet the imposed timescales where pushing back had not worked. Quality of input and drafting was always very high. I would not hesitate to recommend him’
‘I found Ben Brice to be very thorough and personable. He was able to help us define the precise nature of the legal analysis we needed in order to resolve our issue‘
Key clients
Association for Project Management
British Red Cross
Homeless Oxfordshire
Nekton Foundation
Oxfam
Portsmouth Diocesan Trust
Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
Royal Naval Benevolent Trust
The Gregg Schools Trust
The Methodist Church
United Bible Societies Association
Universities and Colleges Information Systems Association
University of Chichester (Multi) Academy Trust
Wessex Children’s Hospice Trust
Winchester Housing Trust
Women’s Prize Trust
St John Cymru Wales
Tenovus Cancer Care
Hafal
MacIntyre
Chwarae Teg
Cardiff and Vale College
Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB)
United Bible Societies
The National Library of Wales
Wales Council for Voluntary Action
Education: institutions Tier 3
Blake Morgan LLP has a sizeable offering in the education sector, with the practice being led by experienced practice head Matthew Smith in Cardiff. The higher education team handles a range of contentious and non-contentious matters for further education and higher education clients. The workload includes litigation, specialist education tribunal matters and advice on governance issues. Tim Forer is a name to note for advice on employment issues. while Penri Desscan handles procurement work. John Deech is a commercial property specialist.
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Testimonials
‘Blake Morgan LLP is unique, due to the commitment, dedication and professionalism of its staff. The team became an extension of my organization, providing high-quality advice and quality assurance during a complex, high-value procurement. The Blake Morgan team was integral to the success of the procurement, embraced the strategic objectives of my organization and ensured the procurement was compliant and the organization’s interests and reputation were protected at all times.’
‘I have worked recently with Matthew Smith – his diligence, client handling and communication skills are second to none.’
‘Penri Desscan (Partner): extensive experience in technology solutions procurement, guided the organisation through a high value, complex technology solution procurement.’
Key clients
New College, Oxford
Balliol College, Oxford
Cardiff University
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Oxford Foundation for Theoretical Neuroscience and Artificial Intelligence
St Dominic’s Sixth Form College
Portsmouth Diocesan Trust
University of Reading
Christ Church College, Oxford
Brasenose College, Oxford
University College, Oxford
University of Winchester
University of Chichester
Hereford Sixth Form College
Swansea University
Magdalen College, Oxford
University of South Wales
Universities and Colleges Information Systems Association
M&A: smaller deals, up to £50m Tier 3
Blake Morgan LLP focuses on small and mid-market M&A across a wide range of industries, with particular experience in the real estate, travel, technology, finance and commercial sectors. The team continues to handle fundraisings for high-growth early-stage companies and SMEs to help position the clients for organic growth and M&A activity. Stojan Essex's practice has a particular focus on high-net-worth individuals, serial entrepreneurs and owner managed businesses, while Lawrence Phillips has experience working on exit strategies, joint ventures and fundraising mandates. Martin Kay leads the department.
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Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable and practical in helping with a fund raise through a placing. They clearly communicated throughout the process and were adaptable to fit in with client’s timescale. Solution-orientated to ensure that the process was efficient and effective.’
‘Approachable and knowledgeable.’
‘Involvement with the client and availability at all times.‘
‘Martin Kay was the lead partner and formed a very good relationship with the client during the transaction.‘
Key clients
Air Charter Service Limited
Air France KLM
Altour Limited
Blackbird plc
Brown Shipley & Co. Limited
Cogora Group Limited
CVS Group Plc
Empiribox Limited
Foster Denovo Group
Go Ahead GmbH
Ickenham Travel Group plc
Jota Aircraft Leasing Ltd
KCR Residential REIT plc
Kerry Group plc
Olivetti SpA
Optimal Ltd
Osirium Technologies plc
Sustainable Harvest, Inc.
TI Sparkle UK Limited
Virtual Clarity Limited
Education: schools Tier 4
Blake Morgan LLP's 'unique' education team is led by Cardiff-based practitioner Matthew Smith. Its expertise is reflected in its ability to advise on child protection, employment law, education and charity law, and various regulatory issues. The team group handles academy conversions and transfers, and it also undertakes a significant amount of transactional work. Mike Wilson and Tim Forer, who are both based in Southampton, handle contentious and non-contentious employment matters. Penny Rinta-Suksi is a key contact for commercial law advice. A key differentiator of the team is its ability to act for both the teacher's regulator and other professional bodies.
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Testimonials
‘Blake Morgan LLP is unique, due to the commitment, dedication and professionalism of its staff. The team became an extension of my organisation, providing high-quality advice and quality assurance during a complex, high-value procurement. The Blake Morgan team were integral to the success of the procurement, embraced the strategic objectives of my organisation and ensured the procurement was compliant and the organisation’s interests and reputation were protected at all times.’
‘Matthew Smith – his diligence, client handling, and communication skills are second to none.‘
Key clients
Magdalen College School
King Edward VI School
St Swithun’s School, Winchester
Capital City Academy Trust
University of Chichester Multi-Academy Trust
The Portsmouth Grammar School
St Marylebone Church of England Academy
Portsmouth Catholic Diocesan Trust
Stockley Academy
The Cherwell Academy
Winchester Diocesan Board of Finance
Solent Academies Trust
The Gregg School
The Gallery Trust
Hamwic Education Trust
Hereford Sixth Form College/Heart of Mercia
IT and telecoms Tier 4
Blake Morgan LLP provides a broad range of technology advice, including handling matters involving fintech, AI and cloud issues. The firm also has experience in technology disputes, as well as advising financial services clients on technology procurements, data privacy mandates and outsourcings. Practice head Simon Stokes specialises in IT law, outsourcing work, cloud services issues and data protection matters.
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Key clients
Forbidden Technologies
Caretower
Virtual Clarity
Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 5
Blake Morgan LLP is praised by clients for its 'exceptional attention to detail and commitment to client service'. It undertakes heavyweight litigation that frequently involves multiple jurisdictions, and its clients include some from Russia and the CIS region. Sarah Rees leads the London commercial litigation team, which includes Justin Weare, whose practice includes shareholder, joint venture, company, contractual, civil fraud, offshore and energy disputes. The team's work further includes insolvency litigation, as well as Proceeds of Crime Act matters (both led by legal director Lucy Edwards).
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Testimonials
Blake Morgan’s strength is its twin focus on specialist expertise and value for money.
Justin Weare is the stand-out partner. His dedication to getting the job done through thick and thin has been impressive – even over the Christmas holidays.
Strong commercial litigation team, with experience in technical disputes involving expert evidence. I have worked with the Blake Morgan team on software and engineering disputes, in which I have found the level of engagement and technical expertise higher than even much larger firms. Takes a steady and proportionate approach (eg, does not send pointless or lengthy letters; correspondence is short and punchy). Punches above its weight.
Justin Weare did an exceptional job of managing resources, dealing with a demanding client, and progressing the case in a measured and targeted way. He was a pleasure to work with, was on top of the detail (impressive in a highly technical dispute) and had excellent judgement about where to deploy the client’s limited resources. My sense was that Blake Morgan delivered far more value to its clients than our opponents.
A good value alternative to City firms.
Justin Weare – smart and sensible
Blake Morgan’s dispute resolution practice is unique because of its exceptional attention to detail and commitment to client service. The team’s strengths include its in-depth knowledge of procedure, considerable experience and its developed commercial nous. One of the team’s key capabilities is its excellent ability to sustain and develop working relationships with Counsel – a market leader in that respect.
Justin Weare is simply a first-class lawyer – clever, strategic and commercially savvy. His ability to understand and respond to clients’ needs is outstanding.
Strongly focused on client’s interests and result. This team is not of those who can sell just efforts.
Sarah Rees is perfect in managing multi-jurisdictional disputes, joining and coordinating effort of lawyers in different countries
My go-to firm for tricky trust, partnership and asset recovery disputes. Cost effective and nice people to deal with.
Sarah Rees is a complete star. Remains personally involved throughout, and is a joy to work with.
A solid choice for sophisticated and demanding clients – especially in the international context. Offshore aspects don’t phase them. They are hands-on, accessible and sensibly priced.
Alex Shirtcliff is a former colleague and will drive business in. His hire seems a statement of intent.
The team is effective, friendly, and focused on results. They run right teams of committed lawyers and provide excellent value for money. Clients appreciate their uncluttered and direct approach to getting the client what they want. The best of the litigation mid-market.
Sarah Rees is a pleasure to deal with. She inspires confidence in clients and coordinates teams across multiple jurisdictions with efficiency and good humour. Conor Daly is hard-working, detail-focused, and excellent at dealing with demanding clients.
Key clients
The Kerry Group
Robert Simon Terry
Cratos Hotel Casino
The Ritz Hotel Casino Limited
Grant Thornton UK LLP
Griffins
Media Entertainment NV
Timothy Yeo
David Weaver
Desmond Reeves
Maxwell Audley
Awendale Resources Inc
Roman Pipia
Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 5
Blake Morgan LLP advises on a broad range of taxation issues, including inheritance tax, capital gains tax, property taxes and stamp duty land tax. It also has a particular focus on providing structuring advice on the holding and acquisition of UK residential property and to owner-managed businesses. In addition, the team is well equipped to handle the administration of cross-border estates. Helen Bunker heads the team following Mark Spash's move to Fladgate LLP.
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Testimonials
‘Helen Bunker is standout partner‘.
‘Arshoo Singh is fantastic – intelligent and thorough with excellent client manner‘
‘Arshoo’s manner towards the client was very good. She remained calm and provided clear, straightforward explanations of the law’
‘I have worked with Arshoo Singh and found her to be the consummate professional: clearly knowledgeable yet personable and user-friendly with clients‘
‘Arshoo Singh is a non-contentious practitioner who also has experience of contentious probate work, which gives her a real edge in advising on complex probate issues. She has a real grasp of detail and excellent judgement and legal skills‘
Planning Tier 5
With a focus on the development, retail, social housing, leisure and construction sectors, the planning team at Blake Morgan LLP works with both private and public sector clients, including CPOs on infrastructure projects, planning agreements for mixed-use developments and section 106 negotiations. Senior associate Keith Lancaster now co-leads the practice alongside Guthrie McGruer following the departure of Sara Hanrahan to Lewis Silkin LLP.
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Key clients
Meadows Residential
Lidl
Clarion Housing
Berkeley Homes (Southern) Limited
Peabody Housing
Metro Bank
Welsh Government
IWG Group Services (UK) Limited / Regus
Justin Homes
Hyde Group
Southern Water Plc
Hollybrook Homes Limited
Bougyues
Sutton and East Surrey Water
Bathurst Partners
Optivo
HSBC
Dorrington Plc
Agudas Israel Housing Association
British Red Cross
Bedfordshire Pilgrims HA
Investec
St Modwen
Barnardos
Winchester HA
Milford Haven Port Authority
Calthorpe Estates Limited
Westminster City Council
Victoria Land Limited
Beechcroft Developments Limited
Bloor Homes (South West) Limited
Bellway Homes Limited (Thames Valley)
Methodist Church
Radian Group
Cooper Estates Limited
Aster Group
Sunley Estates Limited
Family Tier 6
Flora Grossman heads the team at Blake Morgan LLP and is a Resolution-accredited specialist in high-net-worth cases. The team attracts instructions from clients in the world of sport and film, as well as professionals and business owners. In addition, the department often handles Children Act matters. Grossman is a member of the Law Society’s Children Panel, and is well placed to advise on a variety of children law matters, from child arrangements through to removal from jurisdiction cases. Senior solicitor Amy Fullerton is also well regarded.
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‘An astute legal team with a personal touch. Flora Grossman and Amy Fullerton work together as a formidable team‘
‘Flora is a fantastic, all-round practitioner with a particular specialism in complex trusts and children work. She has a calm and meticulous approach to her work, nothing phases her, and she is utterly committed to her clients‘
‘Flora is the coolest of cool heads, measured and calm and no doubt a huge support for clients navigating the choppy waters of financial remedy cases‘
‘Flora Grossman is a hugely impressive solicitor – she attracts top-notch clients, has a really engaging manner and is utterly unflappable‘
Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory Tier 6
The ‘responsive and committed’ Blake Morgan LLP advises banking, asset finance, corporate and commercial clients on a range of financial services products and compliance issues. Richard Humphreys leads the team and has particular experience advising equipment finance lessors and motor vehicle financers. Also notable is the ‘efficient and intelligent’ legal director Felicity Rowan, who specialises in financial services regulatory compliance.
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Testimonials
‘Felicity Rowan has extensive knowledge of the retail financial services sector and the law and regulation applicable to that . Her solutions are robust from both a legal and commercial standpoint’
‘Kathryn Shimmin has impressive knowledge and intelligence’
‘The team are user friendly, experienced and responsive’
‘Richard Humphreys is a very proactive and commercially focused lawyer’
‘Felicity Rowan is technically very good and solution orientated’
‘They understand the complexities of our business, they are local and turn the work around within a relatively short time frame’
Key clients
Investec Asset Finance Ltd (IAF)
Metro Bank Plc
Hitachi Capital UK Plc
Virtual Lease Services Limited
Property finance Tier 6
Blake Morgan LLP advises a wide range of lenders on development finance, secured and portfolio lending, with a growing focus on Islamic finance. The team acts for clearing banks, investment banks, private banks and property funds. In terms of asset classes, hotels, care homes and residential developments are the key areas of interest. Tony Coyne, who is notably adept at managed and secured lending, leads the practice.
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Testimonials
‘I find them positive and proactive in their approach, service and efficiency.’
‘The standout individual for me is Tony Coyne. He is excellent.’
‘The Blake Morgan property finance team combines individuals across the banking, property and construction teams to deliver a seamless and joined-up approach to property finance. The firm offers us a great service, whilst also providing value.’
‘A can-do attitude and friendly and commercial approach means that it is a pleasure to work with the team.’
Travel
As ‘a very solid outfit' led by the 'outstanding' Daniel Scognamiglio, Blake Morgan LLP’s personal injury department has considerable experience acting for both claimants and defendants in cross-border personal injury claims. It is involved in a number of high-value cases involving complex jurisdictional and evidential issues and is seeing growing numbers of instructions from legal expense insurers, which includes catastrophic injury claims for claimants and insurers as well as general insurance disputes. Senior associate Eleanor Armstrong is another name to note for personal injury matters. Elsewhere, Ian Skuse leads the commercial and regulatory offering, handling a range of commercial, corporate, finance, regulatory and advisory work for airlines, travel management companies, leisure and tour operators, destination management companies and travel agents.
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‘I think Blake Morgan are a good team, led very capably by Daniel Scognamiglio. They are all very good at what they do and are reliable.’
‘Daniel Scognamiglio is a very effective lawyer and a good team leader, leading a happy team.’
Key clients
AXA Insurance/AXA Travel Insurance
Cigna (brands include AA Travel Insurance, RSA, MoreThan Travel Insurance)
DAS
Ageas
MAAF (French insurer)
Travelers
ERV previously ETI
Air France/KLM
Abbey Legal/ Markel Group
Banking and finance Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP has a proven track record of SME and mid-market work, and is also on the lending panels of many UK clearing banks. The firm is also known for its expertise in Islamic finance. The practice - which is led by Kath Shimmin, who is described as 'sharp, quick and to the point' - handles the full range of banking and finance matters. Other key contacts in the team are Guy Constant, who has 25 years of experience in this area, Steve Cole and Rebecca McCabe-North.
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Testimonials
‘Easily accessible partners. Solid knowledge of the commercial world and practices.’
‘Kath Shimmin is sharp, quick and to the point – sees the bigger picture with her vast commercial knowledge and experience and cuts through the chase to deliver great and workable solutions Jake Holmes is a solid pair of hands with a pragmatic approach.’
‘The banking team is small but punches above its weight for the size of firm.’
‘Kath Shimmin is key to the banking team. She is the reason we use Blake Morgan for banking advice and brings a wealth of experience perhaps not expected of a firm of the size and make up they are. Kath has magic circle experience, yet at a palatable price point. Factor in the mix of her down-to-earth approach and her ability to tailor advice properly to risk appetite and you have close to the perfect solicitor.’
Key clients
HSBC UK Bank
Santander UK
National Westminster Bank
Investec Bank
Metro Bank
Sutton and East Surrey Water
Bawag P.S.K. Bank für Arbeit und Wirtschaft und Österreichische Postsparkasse Aktiengesellschaft
University of Reading
The Royal Bank of Scotland
Clydesdale Bank
Svenska Handelsbanken AB (PUBL)
Aldermore Bank
Coutts & Co
Clinical negligence and personal injury: defendant Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's 'highly competent team of true clinical negligence specialists' has a 'wide range of experience' and is one of the few law firms in Wales with a significant focus on defending clinical negligence claims brought against doctors, dentists and other healthcare professionals. Praised for his ability 'to think of innovative approaches in clinical negligence cases', consultant David Mortimer has vast experience defending doctors, dentists and other healthcare professionals against claims of clinical negligence and remains a key member of the team that is now increasingly overseen on a day-to-day basis by 'tactically astute' senior associate Tina Whitman . Praised for her ability 'to navigate difficult issues delicately but confidently to bring out the best result', Whitman has also developed a strong track record defending public sector clients in personal injury claims brought against them. The 'dynamic and client-focused' Alison Huckle focuses exclusively in defending health care professionals in clinical negligence claims. The firm's overarching multi-disciplinary expertise within the healthcare sector as a whole also enables the firm to tap into complementary practice area strengths, allowing it to also excel at providing risk and reputation management, as well as fitness to practice concerns.
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Testimonials
The team is consistently excellent with a modern approach and a wide range of experience.
This is a highly competent team of true clinical negligence specialists.
This niche team is well-regarded in Cardiff for its experience as well as its friendly and common sense approach to defendant clinical negligence litigation.
The team has a huge wealth of experience in this field and is very familiar with the clinical negligence, inquest and disciplinary procedures in Wales.
Tina Whitman is tactically astute. She understands the specific demands of her sector and is able to navigate difficult issues delicately but confidently to bring out the best result.
Tina Whitman applies a calm and precise approach to her cases.
David Mortimer is approachable, engaging and proactive.
David Mortimer is an impressive litigator with a wealth of experience.
David Mortimer is highly experienced and able to think of innovative approaches in clinical negligence cases.
Alison Huckle is dynamic while remaining client focused. With strong technical knowledge she is able to seize the upper hand.
Alison Huckle takes a pragmatic approach to litigation, generally ensuring good outcomes are achieved for her clients.
Alison Huckle is experienced, diligent and has excellent judgement.
Nina Bowen prepares cases extremely well and is a very safe pair of hands.
Commercial litigation Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's 12-strong team has the strength-in-depth to provide 'invaluable advice' to private and public sector clients across a wide range of commercial litigation. The 'highly experienced and knowledgeable' Lee Fisher co-heads the overall litigation offering and largely focuses on the representation of the firm's private sector client base across a range of corporate, shareholder and partnership disputes and unfair prejudice claims. Spearheaded by 'very strong' senior associate Joanne Thompson , the team has developed an excellent reputation for public and private sector clients in relation to procurement litigation challenges and defences. As well as work in the health sector and on IT and technology-related litigation, legal director Kevin Manship has also developed a particular niche in relation to commercial agency disputes. The team is rounded out by the 'experienced and no-nonsense' Paul Caldicott, who regularly handles contentious work as part of his broad-ranging insolvency and restructuring practice.Practice head(s):
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Testimonials
A very experienced team who provide us with invaluable advice and assistance at the times we find ourselves in a dispute.
An excellent NHS procurement practice for very high-value claims.
Lee Fisher is highly experienced and knowledgeable and thinks outside the box.
The experienced Paul Caldicott provides a no-nonsense approach to litigation.
Joanne Thompson and Kevin Manship are both very strong specialist procurement litigators.
Sophia Farmer provides a great level of service and a considered and measured approach.
Key clients
NHS England
The Welsh Ministers
Clarins (UK) Limited
NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership (all Local Health Boards and NHS Trusts in Wales, along with the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust)
Personnel Hygiene Services Limited (part of the PHS Group Plc)
University of South Wales
Greater Manchester Combined Authority – Greater Manchester Police
Future Inns
Tinopolis Plc
Circle Nottingham Limited
Paul Mallatratt- Bridgewood Financial Solutions
Duncan Lyle- Baker Tilly
Huw Powell and Katrina Orum- Begbies Traynor Central (LLP)
Alistair Wardell – Grant Thornton LLP
Mazars LLP
Simon Barriball and Sandra McAlister – McAlister & Co Insolvency Practitioners Ltd.
Paul Evans- Deloitte LLP
Coventry City Council
Development Bank Wales
Commercial litigation: Hampshire Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's commercial litigation team has significant experience in the health sector, regularly acting for NHS England in a variety of procurement disputes, as well as representing a range of other healthcare providers. Practice head Jill Bainbridge, who clients praise for her 'top-notch knowledge and experience', specialises in trademark prosecution and brand management, while Susie Dryden is a technology disputes expert. Ben Evans acts in several brand management cases and has 'great experience as both a solicitor and trademark attorney'.
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Testimonials
‘A law firm that I regularly recommend in a wide variety of work areas. Knowledgeable and experienced team. Very client-friendly and efficient.’
‘Jill Bainbridge is an excellent lawyer with top-notch knowledge and experience. Brilliant at dealing with clients, and with barristers. Always helpful and available.‘
‘Ben Evans has great experience as both a solicitor and trade mark attorney. Very easy to work with.‘
‘The team has long-standing involvement in NHS work and have developed deep understanding of the issues involved.‘
‘All highly committed to clients and thoughtful about broader and strategic issues.‘
‘I want to highlight Susie Dryden. She brings drive and common sense, as well as an innate understanding of what her clients really want to get out of litigation.‘
Key clients
Solicitors Regulation Authority
NHS England
Circle Health
CSC Computer Sciences
Wiggle
Cigna
Sutton and East Surrey Water
Kerry Foods
IBM UK
Feelunique
Commercial litigation: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's large team uses its diverse range of specialisms to act for national and international business clients on a full range of commercial disputes, including professional negligence, contentious probate and trust disputes and Privy Council agency for foreign law firms. Sector specialisms include construction and the firm also advises on insolvency-related disputes. 'Highly experienced' Chris Potts leads the practice and has particular expertise in shareholder disputes, company disputes and fraud. Nicola Diggle, recently appointed legal director, advises on IT and software disputes. Property litigation partner Zoe Wright joined from Shoosmiths LLP in 2019.
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‘Great strength in giving commercial advice to clients on their options and a practical hands-on approach to resolving their disputes.’
Key clients
Bouyges
Investec Asset Finance
KPMG
CAP HPI and Audatex group of companies
NHS England
Miele Company Limited
Grant Thornton
Hitachi Capital UK Plc
Metro Bank
Begbies Traynor
Commercial property: Hampshire Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's property group has a strong reputation across the retail and leisure, development, commercial and charitable sectors, while also establishing a growing presence in the healthcare property and retirement living markets. The team's client base ranges from top 10 house builders to high street retailers and the firm has been involved in a number of regeneration initiatives in the region. Practice head Sean Palka is a specialist in the purchase, sale and development of commercial property and advises on complex landlord and tenant cases.
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‘Graham Bennett is exceptionally competent.‘
‘Blake Morgan is able to solve a range of complex site transactions through the wide experiences of their team.‘
Key clients
Metro Bank
Newbie by KappAhl
Beale
Costa
David Lloyd Leisure
Specsavers
The Southern Co-operative
Marie Claire Jet Style
South Coast Furnishing Company
Flying Pictures
Berkeley Homes
Bellway Homes
Persimmon Homes
Stratland Estates
Dandara Group
Sunley Developments
Keebee Marine Developments
Harlequins Football Club
7TG
Hampshire Heritage Developments
Aster Group Limited Housing Association
Radian Group Limited Housing Association
Vivid Housing Association
Richmond Housing Partnership
Forelle Estates
Dean & Reddyhoff
Gentian Development Group
The Barker Mill Trusts
Blackmore Group
Dalgety Bay
Macra
CVS Group
Kerry Group Plc
BAE Systems
Utilita
UK Space Agency
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Port of London Authority
Maritime and Coastguard Agency
St John Ambulance
St John’s Winchester
Fitzroy Support
Sailors’ Society
University of Chichester (Multi) Academy Trust
Hamwic Education Trust
Winchester Diocesan Board of Finance
Portsmouth Roman Catholic Diocese
The Methodist Church
Kings Group Academies
Barclays Bank
HSBC
Santander
National Westminster Bank
RBS
Coutts & Co
Shawbrook Bank
Commercial property: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP has been expanding its Reading real estate practice, recruiting partner Robert Lynch and director Angela Mildenhall from Harrison Clark Rickerbys and Shoosmiths LLP respectively. The team provides real estate advice to corporates, as well as advising clients in the charity, education and banking sectors. Practice head Andrew Farmery manages some of the most significant client relationships alongside Michael Ward. Associates George Panteli and Sophie Boswell are both recommended. Ruth Leadbitter retired in 2019.
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IWG plc
DX Networks Services Limited (part of DX Group plc)
Anheuser-Busch In Bev
Cellnex Limited
The Methodist Church
Canary Wharf Group Plc
Gigaclear plc
Aldermore Bank plc
Cherwell District Council
XPS Pensions Consulting Limited
Construction Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's construction team provides a "cradle-to-grave" service for a broad mix of national and regional clients and the practice has developed a strong reputation advising both private and public sector organisations. The team has expertise across a number of industry sectors including residential and commercial development, retail and leisure, energy and health. The Hampshire group is particularly well known for its contentious construction work. Jessica Tresham is the name to note for adjudication, while Richard Wade leads the practice.
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IWG / Regus
Diamond Light Source
Stepnell
New College
Peabody Trust
Gigaclear
Mytime Active Trust
Sutton and East Surrey Water
Mays Properties
Metro Bank
Corporate and commercial Tier 1
Led on the corporate front by the 'experienced and pragmatic' Robert Cherry and James Williams, Blake Morgan LLP handles a significant volume of transactional work (including a sizeable amount of private equity-related matters for management teams) and day-to-day general company law advice, including on corporate governance matters and compliance issues. Although the firm is active across a myriad industry sectors, it has built up a particularly strong track record handling work in the healthcare space, and has advised on 19 sales of domiciliary care, foster care and Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools businesses in the last three years. Richard Jones was recently promoted to partner, partially in recognition of his pivotal role in many of the firm's most significant private equity and venture capital mandates; he recently took the lead for Zip World and the management team in connection with the £45m management buyout backed by LDC and HSBC. Penri Desscan leads the firm's commercial offering and specialises in advising on long term, complex, high-value services and supplies contracts, including on major public procurement matters.
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Robert Cherry and James Williams are experienced and pragmatic.
Key clients
Capital Green Recycling Limited
Brighter Foods
Tinopolis Group
Zip World Group
Check Safety First
Nexperia BV
Mous Products
Aquila Services Group Plc
Shareholder of Familyplacement.com Limited
Global Technology Group
BSN Social Care Limited
Symrise Limited
Corporate and commercial: Hampshire Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP has a reputation for assembling large deal teams to complete complex transactions in short time frames. The department advises a wide range of clients, from owner managers and entrepreneurs through to SMEs and private equity houses. A large amount of the firm's work is advising on refinancings, disposals and corporate restructurings but it also acts on M&A deals within sectors such as health, education, tech and retail. James Hawkeswood, who leads the practice, specialises in joint ventures and private equity investments.
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‘Hugely responsive.‘
‘Gemma Spiceley is a star.‘
Key clients
Utilita Group
Harwood Wealth Management Group
Cubic Corporation
Gresham Technologies
Be Wiser Insurance Services
Lucketts Holdings
CVS Group
Oyster Yachts
Hardide
Universe Group
Corporate and commercial: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1
Working from Oxford and Reading offices, Blake Morgan LLP advises on a full range of high-profile transactions, with a particular focus on banking and technology deals with a cross-border element. Simon Staples leads the corporate practice, handling mergers, acquisitions and private equity matters. Commercial lead Alison Patten-Hall specialises in large projects such as outsourcing and IT procurements, supported by Elisabeth Bell, who leads on technology and GDPR matters. Senior associate Timothy Coles advises a number of university spin-out start-ups. Legal director Mary Pears joined from Harrison Clark Rickerbys in 2020.
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‘Professional, prompt and to the point.’
‘A good spread of expertise.‘
Key clients
Sutton and East Surrey Water Plc
InHealth Limited
Recarta IT
Osirium Plc
Allmakes Limited
De La Rue Plc
Dillistone Group Plc
Falanx Group
Oxford Pharmegenesis
Hague and London Oil plc
Vail Williams LLP
Simpson Associates Consulting Engineers LLP
Debt recovery Tier 1
The 'outstanding' Sadak Miah leads the debt recovery team at Blake Morgan LLP. Assisting clients in 'overhauling' their repossession processes, he also handles notice of defaults and credit sale agreements. Aside from this, the firm's offering is known for its focus on vehicle finance, an area in which it assists a number of major businesses. In addition, the purchase of debt and related insurance matters are also advised upon. Key clients are drawn from the automotive, recruitment and utility sectors. Elizabeth Bowden is another key name to note
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‘They take a very personal view of the relationship and always seek the best customer outcomes working for us. I am impressed by individuals from the firm – their attention to detail, fast turnaround times and their polite and courteous manner‘.
‘Sadak Miah is an outstanding partner. He takes ownership personally for all his customers, provides really good insight, coaches and motivates his team and is a pleasure to work with‘.
Key clients
Mercedes Benz Financial Services UK Limited
Toyota Financial Services Plc
DAS Insurance
Employment Tier 1
Praised for its 'technical ability, overlaid by a strategic approach', Blake Morgan LLP excels in providing complex bespoke employment solutions to employers in the private and public sectors. Headed by Joanne Davies, the eight-strong team is able provide a wide-ranging contentious and non-contentious service to clients and has the strength-in-depth which allows a considerable level of partner specialism. Davies herself regularly provides the employment input concomitant to corporate transactions handled by the firm and is also noted for her advice on the TUPE issues arising on outsourcing in the public sector. Praised for her 'calm and empathetic approach', Paula Kathrens has niche expertise handling internal disciplinary proceedings involving doctors in NHS Wales and also excels at handling employment-related matters within the higher and further education sectors. The team is rounded out a partner level by the 'intelligent, assiduous and hardworking' Matthew Smith, who specialises in contentious work for private and public sector clients.
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The team’s advice is always clear and comprehensive.
The firm provided a personal and responsive service which was comforting in a fast moving and pressurised situation.
Technical ability overlaid by a strategic approach which aimed to cover all the eventualities.
Paula Kathrens has incredibly good communication skills and reads non-verbal cues and atmospheres very well. Even in tense emotional situations I have been astonished at her calm and empathetic approach.
The outstanding Matthew Smith is very intelligent, assiduous, hardworking and reliable.
Key clients
PHS Group Plc
Welsh Government
The NHS in Wales
Swansea University
Cardiff International Airport
Gower College, Swansea
Principality Building Society
Russell & Bromley Limited
Trivallis Limited (formerly RCT Homes Limited)
Dolce & Gabbana UK Limited
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Charbonnel et Walker Limited
Wales Audit Office
University of South Wales
Capital Green Recycling Limited
Employment: Hampshire Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP 's employment practice has a particular focus on the retail and leisure, education and charities sectors and has a large client following in these areas. A recent growth area for the practice has been in data protection, and it continues to advise businesses/third sector clients on GDPR and the Data Protection Act matters. Vicky Schollar who takes the lead on corporate support work with Holly Cudbill, also manages VIGIL, the firm's fixed-fee service providing unlimited day-to-day employment law advice. Tim Forer heads up the employment practice and specialises in contentious employment advice, often acting for clients in employment tribunals, as well as providing strategic management advice. The team regularly provide bespoke training relating to employment and regulatory law for both employers and HR professionals.
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‘The quality and expertise of the individuals within the team who are knowledgeable and well informed has given me confidence in them to know the answers to all our questions.‘
‘Not only well briefed but also articulate & polite. It’s always important to feel a sense of respect and understanding in these sort of dealings.‘
‘The team at Blake Morgan have been able to give a balanced position on legal advice combined with good practical guidance on how to apply this in the workplace. Other organisations quote the law but do not combine this with practical guidance.‘
‘Tim Forer links law to practical workable solutions. Holly Cudbill speaks with pragmatic confidence that gives confidence in her solutions.‘
‘Both the HR advisers and the lawyers have always provided prompt responses. Advice has always been professional, accurate and helpful. They understand our charity’s ethos and they work and advise sympathetically to this. ‘
‘We have recently worked with Tim Forer and Holly Cudbill, both of whom have provided accurate and timely advice on all issues . All services have been professional and helpful.‘
‘Vicky Schollar’s calm approach and clarity of advice is exactly what is needed when dealing with sometimes complex and challenging situations.‘
Key clients
EE Glass
University of Reading
Portsmouth Roman Catholic Diocesan Trustees Registered
Oldercare
Athena Commercial & Domestic Cleaning
Royal Naval Benevolent Trust
Motherson Group
The Pilgrims’ School
Pilgrims’ Friend Society
PETA Limited
Portsmouth Grammar School
HJS Solutions
The Greggs Schools Trust
Magdalen College Oxford
Royal Navy and Royal Marines Children’s Fund
Vail Williams LLP
Nursing and Midwifery Council
Harwood Wealth Management Group
Employment: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's 'pragmatic and commercially sensitive' team offers top tier advice to long-standing, high profile clients in the technology, pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. With offices in Oxford and Reading, the firm is able to offer expertise in employment disputes work at Tribunal and High Court level, as well as transactional matters including TUPE issues relating to corporate acquisitions and disposals. Practice head William Downing advises on strategic planning and boardroom-level matters. Rajiv Joshi has expertise in complex discrimination claims and in police and health sector workforce issues.
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‘The team have made a conscious effort to understand our business and the manner in which they engage with us as clients is excellent. By having a wide spectrum of services we have been able to use Blake Morgan for all of our matters.’
‘Paul Hayward has always provided first class advice. He provides an invaluable support to the business and my team. He goes over and above by ensuring not only that the case is handled correctly but that my own understanding is there.’
‘Rajiv Joshi: Risk-based, understands our business and what we want to achieve, upskills our team for dealing directly with the challenges we face.’
‘Paul Hayward is extremely knowledgeable and practical in his advice. He is quick to respond, calm in a crisis and sensitive to difficult circumstances, providing commercial and pragmatic advice. He takes the time to understand a client’s business in order to tailor his advice accordingly.’
Key clients
Oxford BioMedica (UK) Limited
Buildbase
Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies
New College, Oxford
University College, Oxford
Worcester College. Oxford
Gigaclear Limited
HCL Technologies UK Limited
Zift Solutions (UK and US)
Connect Catering Limited
Thames Valley Police
Environment and planning Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's specialist planning team is best known for its judicial review work, and has more than 15 years' experience acting for major housing developers. The Oxford-based practice acts for a number of Wales-based clients and has an in-house team of planning consultants. Guthrie McGruer leads the department and is an expert in compulsory purchase law, with significant experience in dealing with judicial reviews and statutory challenges. He has also been involved in many High Court and Court of Appeal cases, negotiating complex Section 106 agreements on behalf of both developers and local authorities.
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‘Great for planning in the South East.‘
‘Guthrie McGruer is very knowledgeable.‘
‘Great access to the team and the ability to give practical advice to problem solve quickly and decisively.‘
‘Both Guthrie McGruer and Keith Lancaster are approachable with an ability to understand issues quickly and willingness to share in-depth knowledge quickly.‘
Key clients
Cooper Estates Strategic Land
Euro Foods Group
Oxford Preservation Trust
Amber Builders
Metro Bank
Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board
Public Health Wales
Welsh Ambulance Service Trust
Southampton International Airport
Family: Hampshire Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's has developed a strong reputation for family law, including financial matters - advising on a range of high value cases. The team has seen an increase in work with an international slant, advising on a number of cross-jurisdictional matters, including post-nuptial agreements and division of assets. Practice head Simon Burge specialises in the financial consequences of relationship breakdowns and has particular expertise in handling high net worth cases. Elsewhere in the team, Jennifer Williamson has significant experiencedealing with high value wealth management cases.
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‘A wealth of experience in all areas of family law. Top London firm calibre without the hefty price tag.‘
‘Simon Burge is highly experienced and gives excellent practical advice. He forges great relationships with his clients to whom he gives a complete and commercial service. He is also an excellent team leader. Jennifer Williamson has made a fantastic start to her career. She’s very hard-working and conscientious and instils great confidence in her clients and them in her.‘
‘Very knowledgeable and experienced team who are helpful and personable to work alongside. Excellent collaborative approach to matters, refreshing in comparison to others in the area.‘
‘Blake Morgan has an exceptionally strong presence in Hampshire. It is one of only a handful of premier family teams on the South Coast. They attract a large following from the local business community and professionals. The team has expertise in high net worth financial matters and international family cases. They work at all levels of the family justice system. The team is held in high regard by their peers and judges alike. They are a modern, efficient and customer focused team who never lose sight of the common humanity required in this area of law. They are the creme de la creme of family teams in Southern England.‘
Health and safety Tier 1
Claire Rawle heads a 'strong team' at Blake Morgan LLP that has a 'depth of knowledge, skill and expertise in health and safety regulation and case law'. The firm's 'hardworking and canny lawyers' have expertise on both the defence and prosecution side and are 'able to provide their clients with a distinct advantage by virtue of their practical handling of many such serious cases'. Although she has expertise on the defence side across a broad swathe of industry sectors, Rawle has recently been particularly active representing health and care sector clients in investigations and prosecutions following sudden unexplained deaths. On the prosecution front, although consultant Robin Havard is still active, 'highly committed' senior associate Tom Walker takes the lead on most of the work and is appreciated for his ability 'to quickly get to the heart of the matter', and to conduct his own advocacy if needed.
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Significant expertise in regulatory health and safety cases.
The firm has a strong team with depth of knowledge, skill and expertise in health and safety regulation and case law.
The team is very responsive to the demands placed on them and always provides timely advice and support.
The firm has considerable genuine knowledge and experience in the arena of health and safety litigation. Its lawyers are hardworking and canny and able to give their client a distinct advantage by virtue of their practical handling of many such serious cases.
The team really understand the client needs and has an ability to digest complex information quickly and provide robust advice.
Tom Walker manages cases with complete professionalism. He is able to get to the heart of the matter quickly and provides excellent advice.
Tom Walker is a highly committed lawyer with huge personal experience of health and safety litigation. He is also very easy to deal with, rational in his judgements and quick to respond to queries and developments in the case.
Key clients
Health and Safety Executive
Intellectual property Tier 1
Led by the 'exceptional' Lee Fisher, Blake Morgan LLP's 'very experienced' four-strong team provides 'detailed and clear advice' across a range of contentious and non-contentious matters, including as it relates to comparative advertising and patent law, for public and private sector clients. Fisher is particularly strong at handling IP disputes, including those requiring urgent injunctive relief. Senior associate Joanna Corbett-Simmons is a 'highly proficient litigator' and regularly handles breaches of confidential information and copyright claims.
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The team is very experienced and provides invaluable advice and assistance.
I would recommend them to any other business who requires detailed and clear advice.
Lee Fisher’s knowledge and experience in IP matters is exceptional.
Lee Fisher always provides clear advice.
Key clients
Tremorfa Limited
Flame and Wax Inc (t/a Voluspa)
Fortune Woods (UK) Limited
Cardiff University
Hearing Health and Mobility Limited
Vansdirect Limited
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Clarins (UK) Limited
Admiral Group
Broadcast Virtual
Intellectual property Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's IP team includes cross-border enforcement and expert Jill Bainbridge - who also leads the firm's commercial litigation teams in the South and Wales - and chartered trade mark attorney Ben Evans. Noted for its work on behalf of charities, public sector bodies and retail clients, the firm is proficient across a number of areas. These include: competition issues, brand protection, reputation management (including defamation and harassment), digital copyright and social media. Having consolidated a first-rate reputation for this type of work, it attracts a significant number of clients from overseas law firms. Chris Williams is recommended for software cases concerning the misuse of confidential information.
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‘Friendly, efficient and professional.’
Key clients
Kerry Group PLC
Charles Tyrwhitt
Red Paddle Company
Wiggle
Feelunique
Be Wiser Insurance Services Limited
Nokia
Too Faced Cosmetics
Nosy Crow Limited
CVS PL
Pensions Tier 1
Led by Ron Burgess , who divides his time between the firm's London and Cardiff offices, Blake Morgan LLP's 'personable and pragmatic' pensions team has a strong reputation among scheme trustees and employers, both locally and throughout the UK. Leveraging the firm's 'technical expertise' across core business law matters relating to finance and corporate, Burgess is regularly called on to advise on the pensions-related implications of transactions handled by the firm. The team is also noted for its expertise on public sector pensions-related matters, an area that 'friendly and professional' Gillian McCue has a 'depth of knowledge'.
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The team is personable and pragmatic, as well as having the technical expertise you would expect from a leading law firm.
The team was extremely attentive to our needs.
The firm has a specialism in public service pensions as well as wider issues.
The friendly and professional Gillian McCue has a depth of knowledge on pensions, in particular public service specifics.
Key clients
Swansea University Pension Scheme
Aberystwyth University Pension Scheme
Michael Weinig (UK) Limited Pension and Assurance Scheme
NHS England
Welsh Government
Wales and West Utilities Limited
Nurture Landscapes Limited
Trivallis Limited
University of Wales Superannuation Scheme
Personnel Hygiene Services Limited
Personal tax, trusts and probate: Hampshire Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP covers the full breadth of wealth protection work and advises clients on all aspects of trust creation and administration. The firm can leverage the resources of four specialist teams across the South East: advisory, probate, trust administration, and court of protection. Paula Shea joined the practice from Lester Aldridge LLP and is particularly skilled in advising elderly clients and assisting families with vulnerable children. She leads the Southampton practice alongside Simon Treherne , who works primarily with entrepreneurial clients. Jonathan Sleep is an inheritance tax specialist and helps to provide safeguards for clients losing mental capacity.
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‘Approachable, frank, friendly, down to earth. Open to questioning. Prompt with any replies. Always contactable. Appreciative of anxieties. Realistic. Answer questions put directly.‘
‘Paula Shea and her team are exemplary listeners and are therefore able to give the very best advice, calling on other professionals i.e. accountants, to advise and provide the best information.‘
‘Blake Morgan’s Succession and Tax Team’s review of a group of family trusts was exactly what we needed. They were flexible, helpful and gave value for money. I was grateful for the reassurance they provided and for the issues that they flagged up for the trustees’ attention going forward.‘
‘We have had first class, personalised service from Paula Shea.‘
‘I have dealt with Blake Morgan LLP over a number of years and have always found the firm to be efficient, timely and welcoming. The team has dealt with my requirements in a competent manner and have carried out my wishes, whilst offering valid advice and making points of law as required.‘
‘The Probate, Wills and Trusts team provide responsive and helpful advice in a timely manner. They follow up on the advice and provide a good value service.‘
‘Efficient, obliging and effective.‘
Property litigation Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP's five-strong team is well-versed at advising landowners, tenants, developers and property companies across the spectrum of disputes, including on the enforcement of covenants, lease renewal proceedings, dilapidation claims and adverse possession matters. The team has strong visibility for its work in the public sector, and has recently defended the central government in numerous compulsory purchase order claims brought in relation to a new road scheme. Team head Sian Jones' diverse workload includes portfolio management for several large property companies (including contentious advice regarding break notices and the forfeiture of leases), social housing-related disputes and advice in relation to development overage litigation.
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‘Their attention and understanding of clients needs, their attention to detail and client focus.’
‘A good quality team, well lead and well supported.’
Key clients
Welsh Government
Canary Wharf Group
RPS Group
NHS England
Milford Haven Port Authority
Cardiff University
Cardiff Council
Swansea County Council
Eagle One Group
Royal National Institute for the Blind
Public sector Tier 1
Blake Morgan LLP is considered a leading provider in the field with its expertise spanning the health, local government and education sectors. The health team, under the leadership of Bruce Potter, assists a number of large healthcare providers including national bodies on complex transactional matters. The local government practice is headed up by Penny Rinta-Suksi, who is highly rated by clients and is noted for her work on leisure and housing projects. On the education side, the group is well known for advising institutions on a range of issues including contentious and non-contentious advisory work. Cardiff-based Matthew Smith oversees the group and is supported by associate Vicky Schollar. Rajiv Joshi is recommended for employment-related transactional matters.
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‘Having worked with Blake Morgan for a number of years I would have no hesitation in recommending them. They combine first-class legal knowledge with a pragmatism that ensures that we can make the best use of the advice they provide.’
‘They have supported us across a range of issues from contracts, procurement issues and leases to coroners inquests and strategic planning and development, and have always added significant value to our decision-making processes.’
‘Work has been led by Penny Rinta-Suksi. In her approach, she brings exactly what I would look for in a commercial lawyer: understanding of the overall commercial objectives comes first and the provision of advice is in line with that. Combined with knowledge of the industry and so very able to advise on standard positions, reasonable project variants (i.e. challenge where my view may not get me what I am looking to achieve).’
Key clients
Reading Borough Council
Wiltshire Council
Chiltern District Council
North Norfolk District Council
Fenland District Council
Oxfordshire County Council
Tandridge District Council
London Borough of Merton
Test Valley Borough Council
Cherwell District Council
Dover District Council
New College, Oxford
Balliol College, Oxford
Oxford Foundation for Theoretical Neuroscience and Artificial Intelligence
Universities and Colleges Information Systems Association
University of Portsmouth
Portsmouth Grammar School
Portsmouth Diocesan Trust
University of Reading
NHS England and NHS Wales
InHealth Limited
University College London NHS Foundation Trust
Medical Imaging Partnerships Limited
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust
Dartford and Gravesham NHS Trust
Public sector Tier 1
Led by Eve Piffaretti, Blake Morgan LLP's multi-disciplinary eight-partner team provides a 'responsive and highly flexible service' to public sector entities spread across local/central government, health, social housing and education. The firm has an excellent understanding of the political framework in which such bodies operate in, and as well as providing expertise on practice specific work, including as it relates to corporate, commercial and employment, it is also steeped in public law knowledge, including in relation to devolved Welsh law. Praised for her 'timely and pragmatic advice', Piffaretti has deep knowledge across Welsh public law issues, particularly in relation to statutory interpretation of health and social care and regulatory law. Himself formerly in-house at the Welsh government, Simon McCann has excellent insight with regard to public sector-related work and provides 'practical and sensible' advice to public sector bodies on both non-contentious and contentious procurement matters. Legal director Kevin Manship excels in public law-related matters and regularly represents the NHS in England and Wales in judicial review challenges. 'Diligent and capable' senior associate Joanne Thompson has a superb reputation for procurement litigation, for both private sector entities bringing claims, as well as public sector clients defending challenges.
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Excellent practice with extremely knowledgeable and personable staff.
Highly capable and experienced procurement litigators with strong relationships with NHS commissioners.
Eve Piffaretti provides timely and pragmatic advice.
Simon McCann provides practical and sensible advice.
Joanne Thompson is a diligent, capable and experienced procurement litigator.
Key clients
Welsh Government & The Welsh Ministers
NHS Wales Shared Services Partnership (all 7 Local Health Boards (Abertawe Bro Morgannwg University Health Board, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, Cardiff & Vale University Health Board, CwmTaf University Health Board, Powys Teaching Health Board, BetsiCadwaladr University Health Board and Hywel Dda University HealthBoard ) and all 3 NHS Trusts in Wales ( Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust , Public Health Wales NHS Trust and Velindre NHS Trust )
NHS Wales Informatics Service
Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority
NHS England
NHS East Staffordshire CCG
Transport for Wales
Welsh Language Commissioner
National Assembly for Wales
Children’s Commissioner for Wales
Equality and Human Rights Commission (in Wales)
Older People’s Commissioner for Wales
Social Care Wales
Education Workforce Council
Development Bank for Wales
Human Tissue Authority
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service
Social Care Wales
Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent
Medical Protection Society
Clwyd Alyn Housing Assocation
Pobl Housing Association
Cardiff and Vale College
Cardiff University
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Cardiff International Airport
Human Tissue Authority
Swansea University
Teaching Regulation Agency
Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council
Cardiff City Council
Powys County Council
Isle of Anglesey Council
Conwy and Denbighshire County Borough Council
Caerphilly County Borough Council
Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
Swansea City Council
Qualifications Wales
Gower College
Cardiff Metropolitan University
University of Winchester
University of Reading
Catholic Insurance Society
Bridgend County Borough Council
Cardiff International Airport
Circle Nottingham Limited
Health and Safety Executive
University of South Wales
Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Wales Co-operative Centre
Wiltshire County Council
Milford Haven Port Authority
Social housing Tier 1
The 'approachable and efficient' team at Blake Morgan LLP is 'capable of responding to the pressures and challenges' faced by the firm's impressive roster of Welsh and English housing association clients. Resourcing matters utilising practitioners with core substantive social housing knowledge, as well as being able to tap into the expertise of lawyers in complementary practice areas (including employment, property, health, finance and construction), the team is well-placed to advise across the spectrum of issues, ranging from governance and compliance, through to tenant-related matters. Leveraging her broader property litigation credentials, and also able to handle her own advocacy, team head Sian Jones has developed a strong track record representing housing associations across a range of disputes, including on mental capacity, public sector duty and equality act issues. The 'exceptional' Louise Howells has the 'ability to expedite complex situations' relating to development and regeneration projects for social housing clients.
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The team is approachable and efficient.
It is an agile department capable of responding to pressures and challenges.
The exceptional Louise Howells has the ability to expedite complex, unusual situations by applying her knowledge and experience.
Louise Howells is extremely experienced in this line of work and proactive when dealing with lender’s solicitors.
Key clients
ClwydAlyn Housing
Newport City Homes
Cardiff Community Housing
Melin Homes
Wales and West Housing Association
Linc-Cymru Housing Association
Pobl Group
Peabody Group
Midland Heart
Tai Tarian
Sovereign Housing Association
Agriculture and estates Tier 2
Operating out of Southampton, the team at Blake Morgan LLP provides advise on a diverse range of matters for families with landed estates, farmers, and agricultural businesses, covering complex tax and trust advice. Practice leader Oliver Sowton is known for his work on business park infrastructure and renewable energy projects. Senior associate Caroline Lindon-Morris comes recommended. Partner Paula Shea joined from Lester Aldridge LLP in April 2019; Zoe Wright joined from Shoosmiths LLP as a property litigation partner in the summer of 2019.
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‘This team has been helpful, available, and quickly understood our complex family structure.’
‘Despite the fact that Blake Morgan is a large organisation it always felt that our business was important to them and we were receiving the best possible service.’
Banking and finance Tier 2
Now headed by senior associate Paul Duggan, Blake Morgan LLP maintains a 'responsive, commercial and results-focused' service to banks and borrowers across a range of mid-market activity throughout Wales and the UK. The 'highly knowledgeable and personable' Duggan is praised for his 'ability to communicate complex issues in straightforward language', and has niche healthcare and social housing financing expertise. Paul Caldicott is one of the country's foremost insolvency experts and regularly handles restructuring work for insolvency practitioners and lenders.
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The team is able to communicate very challenging and complex finance and banking issues into meaningful, straightforward and simple terms.
The team is inclusive, approachable, straightforward and engaging.
Paul Duggan is highly knowledgeable, personable and able to communicate complex issues in straightforward language.
Key clients
Julian Hodge Bank
HSBC
Metro Bank
Cardiff International Airport
Charities and not-for-profit Tier 2
While Blake Morgan LLP's Cardiff office does not boast a standalone charities team, numerous practitioners from across the firm's full-service offering regularly handle work for charities and not-for-profit organisations. Spearheaded by Claire Rawle, the professional regulatory team handles a significant volume of charities-related mandates, including safeguarding compliance and HSE-related investigations. Leveraging her vast knowledge within the health and social care field (which includes advice relating to the development of health, social care and education law and policy in Wales), the 'pragmatic and responsive' Eve Piffaretti is also regularly involved in safeguarding and health and safety-related matters, as well as providing regulatory and public law advice, including in relation to the emerging Welsh legislation and policy as it applies to health and social professionals. Lawyers for the Cardiff office are also regularly brought in to assist the firm's overarching core charities group which is led by Ben Brice out of the Reading office.
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Testimonials
Eve Piffaretti is pragmatic and responsive.
Key clients
St John Cymru Wales
Tenovus Cancer Care
Hafal
MacIntyre
Chwarae Teg
Cardiff and Vale College
Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB)
United Bible Societies
The National Library of Wales
Wales Council for Voluntary Action
Charities and not-for-profit Tier 2
Blake Morgan LLP's team handles a wide variety of matters, including governance, safeguarding and structuring. It also has expertise in the creation of and amendments to Royal Charters and working with international charities in disaster areas. Legal director Ben Brice advises on a broad range of charity law issues, including complex governance and regulatory matters. Senior associate Kirsteen Hook has experience advising on new charity formations, M&A and restructuring. Rachel Sales has particular expertise in advising clients in the not-for-profit and education sectors.
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Testimonials
‘Blake Morgan may be a UK-wide practice but through their Cardiff office, they have developed a uniquely Welsh personality to their business. They understand the local as well as sector context.’
‘We very much value the straight forward, well grounded approach that is evident amongst all of Blake Morgan’s staff. They provide timely, too-the-point advice and never over-sell services to us as their clients.’
‘I depend on their advice and feel assured that I am receiving a very high standard of support.’
Key clients
Association for Project Management
British Red Cross
Homeless Oxfordshire
Nekton Foundation
Oxfam
Portsmouth Diocesan Trust
Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB)
Royal Naval Benevolent Trust
The Gregg Schools Trust
The Methodist Church
United Bible Societies Association
Universities and Colleges Information Systems Association
University of Chichester (Multi) Academy Trust
Wessex Children’s Hospice Trust
Winchester Housing Trust
Women’s Prize Trust
Commercial property Tier 2
Led by the 'knowledgeable and responsive' James Egan, Blake Morgan LLP's five-partner team has a well-hedged practice in the commercial property sphere, as a result of its work for a balanced array of investors, developers, lenders and end users engaged in private and public sector mandates. Praised for his 'conscientious and practical approach', Geoff Reed typifies this eclectic workload, although he is perhaps best-known for his work on high-value domestic development transactions. Nigel Griffiths is also recommended and continues to oversee a thriving retail leasing offering for landlords and tenants in a major London retail space.
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Testimonials
James Egan is knowledgeable and responsive.
Geoff Reed is conscientious and practical.
Key clients
Canary Wharf Group Plc
Welsh Government
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Cardiff University
NHS Wales
The Royal National Institute for Blind People
Rightacres Property Company Limited
Barola Property Holdings Limited
Hodge Bank
HSBC
Newport City Homes
Cardiff Parkway Developments Limited
Construction Tier 2
The 'knowledgeable' team at Blake Morgan LLP provides 'personable, commercially minded and pragmatic advice' to private and public sector purchasers and contractors engaged in construction projects across residential and commercial development, retail and leisure, energy, banking and education. Joanna Rees is 'always prepared to go the extra mile' and is well-versed in guiding clients through the life cycle of construction projects, from project tender through the build phase, managing risk issues and resolving disputes by alternative dispute resolution. Simon McCann provides 'sensible and practical advice' to public sector bodies tendering for major construction projects. Rachel Gwilliam departed in January 2020 for an in-house role.
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Testimonials
The knowledgeable team provides personable, commercially minded and pragmatic advice.
The responsive team provides clear and concise advice.
Joanna Rees is always prepared to go the extra mile to ensure that we get responses back as needed and on time, even if that means working to late hours and weekends in some cases.
Simon McCann is excellent at listening and taking on-board all aspects of the query before making a suggestion.
Simon McCann provides practical and sensible advice.
Key clients
Transport for Wales
City of Cardiff Council
Igloo Regeneration(General Partner) Ltd
Welsh Government
Cardiff University
Mr Mohammed Helal Salem Bin Taraf
Family: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 2
Blake Morgan LLP's 'highly-regarded team' has considerable expertise in divorce matters and Children's Act proceedings. Notably, it is well-rated for its expertise in matrimonial finance matters and divorce proceedings involving complex company issues and assets in multiple jurisdictions. Christine Plews, who has retired from the partnership to become a consultant, leads the practice and acts for high-net-worth individuals in financial remedy cases , as well as handling pre and post nuptial agreements with an international element. Senior associate Catherine Morgan handles financial matters and domestic abuse issues.
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‘Blake Morgan LLP whether in Hampshire or in Oxford remains an extremely highly-regarded team in the field of matrimonial finance. They have excellent premises, very good systems and great staff.’
‘James Davies is a first rate solicitor. His preparation is meticulous and second to none. He has an extremely good nose for hidden assets and will take all necessary steps to expose them.’
‘Christine Plews provides a high standard of practical and commercial advice and works extremely hard for her clients. She has excellent client handling skills.’
IT and telecoms Tier 2
Blake Morgan LLP's IT & telecoms team boasts a diverse range of expertise, advising on areas such as the delivery and installation of systems, software development, distribution arrangements and managed services. It can also assist clients with digital marketing technology, an area in which it focuses on social media and the development and deployment of specialist apps. Co-leads Alison Patten-Hall and Susie Dryden are renowned for high value cases and count universities, NHS Trusts and multinationals within their client portfolio. Elisabeth Bell is prominent in nano-tech licensing and virtual reality circles.
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‘In my experience of working with a number of different lawyers, the team at Blake Morgan is first-in-class in every aspect of the work which has been undertaken. Response is fast with relevant backup and is conveyed in a serious but down to earth fashion‘.
Key clients
University of Reading
Artemis IT Solutions
HTEC Y
Cloudhouse Technologies
Osirium Technologies plc
InHealth Limited
NTT Security UK Limited
Sutton and East Surry Water Plc
HCL Technologies UK Limited
IBM United Kingdom
Cubic Corporation
Nokia
Teemill Tech Limited
Media and entertainment Tier 2
Publishing ethics specialist Jill Bainbridge leads the south east media and entertainment team at Blake Morgan LLP. Known for its work in the charity, retail and leisure sectors, it also pursues issues of unfair competition and reputation management. Partner Simon Stokes is notable for his expertise in social media and copyright, particularly as it relates to art. Ben Evans specialises in trade mark prosecution, brand protection, IP litigation (arising from social media use) and defamation. The firm's client base features a number of significant overseas businesses and other law firms.
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Key clients
Kerry Group PLC
Charles Tyrwhitt
Red Paddle Company
Wiggle
Feelunique
Be Wiser Insurance Services Limited
Nokia
Too Faced Cosmetics
Nosy Crow Limited
CVS PLC
Pensions Tier 2
Blake Morgan LLP's advisory practice services both employers and trustees on schemes of various sizes. On the disputes side, recent work includes professional negligence claims through errors in scheme documentation and Local Government Pension Scheme issues. Ron Burgess splits his time across multiple UK offices and has provided advice on various high-profile transactions and pension scheme restructuring projects. Rupert Graham-Evans advises on legal compliance, benefit changes , mergers and security arrangements. Former practice head John Hamilton departed the firm in 2020 to take up a role at the Government Legal Service.
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Testimonials
‘The pensions team is able to provide high-quality advice to larger schemes as well as smaller ones.’
‘Ron Burgess not only has excellent pensions experience and legal knowledge but he is great at explaining difficult issues simply rather than simply explaining.’
‘Rupert Graham-Evans has always been extremely helpful and attentive.’
Key clients
Oyster Marine
Amey PLC
Syfer Technology Pension Plan
Arthur J Gallaghers (and their clients)
USPAS
Dick Lovett
Olivetti Spa
Mizuho Bank Pension Scheme
British Tourist Authority (VisitBritain)
Harlan Pensions Scheme
Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 2
Led by the 'experienced and intelligent' Lisa Davies , Blake Morgan LLP's 'professional and cohesive' succession and tax team handles a range of wealth planning work for high-net-worth individuals and business owners, either on its own or in conjunction with other practitioners across the firm's network of UK offices. The 'sensitive and thoughtful 'Nicky Sherrard has expertise across a range of private client work including estate planning and the administration of estates, with mandates often including the consideration of overseas assets, agricultural and business property.
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Testimonials
The professional and cohesive practice has established good working relationships with third party advisors.
Lisa Davies has the experience to provide up-to-date and first-class advice and the intelligence to know how to deliver that to clients in a way that makes complete sense.
Nicky Sherrard is sensitive and thoughtful.
Ben Coulson is very professional, extremely knowledgeable, emotionally intelligent and easy to communicate with.
Personal tax, trusts and probate: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 2
Blake Morgan LLP's extensive private client offering includes lifetime estate and business planning for entrepreneurs and owner managers, advice on structuring and ownership, tax advice, as well as succession planning. Susannah Treherne leads the team, having joined from Slade Legal in November 2019, and operates a varied practice with a focus on contentious trust matters. James Greig specialises in wills, probate, power of attorney and inheritance tax matters. Senior associates Alison Craggs and Kathryn Woodward are recommended.
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Professional negligence Tier 2
The 'superb' claimant offering at Blake Morgan LLP - which is led by Richard Portlock in Eastleigh - handles a myriad of matters for professional services clients including solicitors and financial advisers. Chris Williams, who splits his time between London and Southampton, is recommended for matters with an IP element, while senior associate Heather Welham handles those with a regulatory aspect. The team's client roster includes individuals, private companies and non-profit organisations.
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Testimonials
‘Well resourced and tenacious firm.’
‘Chris Williams is intelligent and responsive with wide and varied experience.’
‘Blake Morgan have been superb in handling our case.’
‘Both Richard Portlock and Heather Welham have been first class in keeping us informed about the progress of the case, letting us know about the next steps and presenting us with clear alternatives when we were navigating our way through this case.’
Property litigation Tier 2
Blake Morgan LLP has notable experience acting in all aspects of commercial and residential matters, and is particularly focused on the leisure, retail and charity sectors. The department regularly acts in lease renewals, rent reviews, dilapidation claims, forfeitures, break options, tenant insolvency litigation and the enforcement of easements. Zoe Wright, who joined the team in mid-2019 from Shoosmiths LLP with legal director Simon Pestell, leads the Reading-based practice, while Claire Lamkin divides her time between London and Oxford.
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Testimonials
‘Extremely responsive, very invested in providing additional support through their value-added offering. Advice is always focused and gives pragmatic options to address the issue at hand.‘
‘Zoe Wright is a “go to” adviser for our organisation. She takes great care to understand our particular organisational nuances and needs.‘
‘The main thing that makes Blake Morgan unique is the outstanding standard of every person across all of the specialities. The advice is always excellent and clear everyone is always extremely efficient and friendly.‘
Key clients
Wireless Infrastructure Group
David Lloyd Leisure
Oxfam GB
Gigaclear
IW Group Services (UK)
Peabody Trust
The British Red Cross Society
Vale of Aylesbury Housing Trust
BPHA
Berkeley Homes
Social housing Tier 2
Blake Morgan LLP has developed a reputation for its work on the acquisition, development and disposals of properties and sites for housing associations, also advising on construction and planning matters. Department head Sean Palka acts primarily for residential developers, handloing initial acquisitions all the way through to final plot sales. Dan Curtis leads the residential development group and specialises in real estate with particular expertise in the development for care home providers as well as acting for house builders and land owners.
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Testimonials
‘The team are always accessible and willing to assist and help wherever needed. They’re happy to take calls whenever necessary and always respond to emails in a timely manner. It may seem a simple thing to do but not all practices are either capable or prepared to do it. Sometimes, it’s the little things that make a big difference.‘
‘Chris Carr offers a wealth of experience and brings a “can do” attitude to things. Having regular points of contact helps both us and our clients.‘
Key clients
Radian Group
Aster Group
Network Housing Association
Winchester Housing Trust
Agudas Israel Housing Association
Richmond Housing Partnership
Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 3
Led by Katie James, the practice at Blake Morgan LLP advises clients including banks, landlords, insolvency practitioners and directors of distressed companies on the full range of insolvency work. Based in Reading, the team's client base is spread across the South and London. James has broad experience in insolvency law, and has particular expertise in advising on distressed care homes. She is praised by clients as 'an outstanding lawyer'.
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Testimonials
‘Blake Morgan have been friendly and responsive, and are adequately resourced to provide a good level of service. They are receptive to feedback and have a positive attitude to suggested amendments to draft documents and correspondence.’
‘This team has built up from a standing start and now has a wide variety of high quality insolvency clients. This team gives a lot of responsibility to the more junior members of the team but the outcome of this is that the junior solicitors quickly learn the job and become very accomplished at an early stage.’
‘Katie James heads up the team. Katie is the reason for the success of the insolvency team at Blake Morgan’s Reading office. She remains very engaged in the day to day matters despite having the responsibility of heading up the team and bringing work in. Katie is an outstanding lawyer, she’s very intelligent and not afraid to take bold and difficult decisions. At the same time Katie has a great manner with clients which means she has a very successful practice (evidenced by the way she has built this team). I have spoken at webinars with Katie and she presented in an excellent manner. I should also mention that Katie values diverse routes into the profession and works hard to promote these routes; for example, Blake Morgan are now taking apprenticeships.’
‘They provide clarity of advice, commerciality, speed of response, and friendliness.’
‘We valued their breadth of experience, honesty, commercial approach, availability (when it suits us) and tenacity. Katie James has all of these qualities and leads a growing team that demonstrate the same. Put simply, they are invaluable as a panel firm for us.’
Key clients
Metro Bank
Shaw Gibbs Corporate Recovery
Quantuma
Opus Restructuring
Manolete Partners
KPMG
Griffins
Gibson Hewitt
Begbies Traynor
Critchleys
Contentious trusts and probate Tier 4
Blake Morgan LLP advises clients on multi-jurisdictional issues relating to estates and trusts, as well as wills that comply with Islamic law and high-value Inheritance Act claims. Team leader Stephanie Walls has expertise advising in relation to disputes involving discretionary trusts, while Richard Portlock acts both for and against trustees. Arshoo Singh has extensive experience in advising both UK and international clients in relation to tax, trusts, and mental capacity issues. Susannah Treherne joined from Slade Legal in 2019.
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‘A large firm with a well resourced contentious trusts team that is well known in the area.’
‘Stephanie Walls is very clear and focused.’
Blake Morgan LLP > Firm Profile
At Blake Morgan, we have a reputation for building life-time relationships with our clients helping them to navigate through the commercial affairs and business challenges that affect their organisation as well as advising them on a range of personal issues. As a full service law firm with offices across the UK and a wealth of expertise with over 100 partners and 700 staff, we use our unique blend of technical expertise, broader experience and commercial realism to get the best results possible for our clients – be they small businesses, corporates, individuals, families, government, or not-for-profits. We are trusted by many of the leading players within the areas in which we specialise. This includes international and national corporate organisations, 20 local authorities, central government departments as well as devolved regional government, four major high street and corporate banks, leading supermarkets, and four of the top 10 house builders. We also advise over 100 schools, academies and universities on a wide range of legal issues.
Contacts:
Administrative & Public Law: Eve Piffaretti
ADR: Susie Dryden
Agriculture & Estates: Oliver Sowton
Banking: Kathryn Shimmin
Charities: Ben Brice
Competition: Richard Portlock
Commercial Litigation: Jill Bainbridge (Regions), Sarah Rees (London)
Construction: Richard Wade
Corporate & Commercial: Robert Cherry & Alison Patten-Hall
Data Protection: Simon Stokes
Debt Recovery: Sadak Miah
Education: Matthew Smith
Employment: Joanne Davies
Environment Law: Anita Kassean
Family Law: Simon Burge
Financial Services: Kathryn Shimmin
Government: Penny Rinta-Suski
Health & Safety: Claire Rawle
Health & Social Care: Bruce Potter
Insolvency & Business Recovery: Paul Caldicott
IP: Jill Bainbridge
IT: Simon Stokes?
Judicial Review: Joanne Thompson
Repetition we have Commercial Litigation above
Mental Health: Eve Piffaretti
Outsourcing: Simon McCann
Partnerships: Andrew Miscampbell
Pensions: Ron Burgess
Planning: Anita Kassean
Private Client: Helen Bunker
Procurement: Simon McCann
Professional Regulatory: Bradley Albuery
Public Law: Eve Piffaretti
Publishing: Simon Stokes
Real Estate: Philip Jardine
Real Estate Litigation: Zoe Wright (England), Siãn Jones (Wales)
Retail & Leisure: Oliver Sowton
Residential Property: Mark Scott
Social Housing: Siãn Jones
Tax: Cathy Bryant
Travel: Daniel Scognamiglio
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Managing partner | Mike Wilson | ||
Chair | Bruce Potter | ||
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 100 Number of other UK fee-earners : 464Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Mediators
- Professional discipline
- Banking and finance
- Clinical negligence and personal injury: defendant
- Commercial litigation
- Commercial litigation: Hampshire
- Commercial litigation: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Commercial property: Hampshire
- Commercial property: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Construction
- Corporate and commercial
- Corporate and commercial: Hampshire
- Corporate and commercial: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Debt recovery
- Employment
- Employment: Hampshire
- Employment: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Environment and planning
- Family: Hampshire
- Health and safety
- Intellectual property
- Intellectual property
- Pensions
- Personal tax, trusts and probate: Hampshire
- Property litigation
- Public sector
- Public sector
- Social housing
Firm Rankings
- Healthcare
- Charities and not-for-profit
- Education: institutions
- M&A: smaller deals, up to £50m
- Education: schools
- IT and telecoms
- Commercial litigation: mid-market
- Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Planning
- Family
- Financial services: non-contentious/regulatory
- Property finance
- Travel
- Agriculture and estates
- Banking and finance
- Charities and not-for-profit
- Charities and not-for-profit
- Commercial property
- Construction
- Family: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- IT and telecoms
- Media and entertainment
- Pensions
- Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Personal tax, trusts and probate: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40
- Professional negligence
- Property litigation
- Social housing
- Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Contentious trusts and probate