Shakespeare Martineau LLP > Stratford upon Avon, England > Firm Profile

Shakespeare Martineau LLP
BRIDGEWAY HOUSE
BRIDGEWAY
STRATFORD-UPON-AVON
CV37 6YX
England

Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 1

The debt and asset recovery team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP has extensive knowledge in the recovery of secured and unsecured debt and handles all aspects of asset finance. The practice works for high profile clients within the energy, engineering and financial services sectors. The firm is also known for handling international debt collection work, mainly in Europe. Team heads Jayne Gardner and Edward Flanagan work with major clients from across the energy, finance and manufacturing sectors. Alan Hamblett deals with many defended claims, as well as injunctions, shareholder actions and dilapidation claims.

Practice head(s):

Jayne Gardner; Edward Flanagan

Other key lawyers:

Alan Hamblett; Richard Thorpe; Grace Strawford

Testimonials

‘Pragmatic and effective approach to higher value cases. Great outcomes achieved.’

‘This firm is always helpful and willing to accommodate our requests at short notice and will endeavor to assist in any which way it can.’

‘The team at Shakespeare Martineau always deliver a high class service and always deliver results. They are quick to raise any issues and get them resolved and always have great communication.’

‘The Debt Recovery Team is diligent, and thinks matters through in order to ascertain the best outcomes for us.’

‘Eddie Flanagan is calm under pressure and a safe pair of hands for all debt recovery matters.’

‘Jayne Gardner is a partner who I feel I can trust to deliver a high class service and always deliver results.’

‘Alan Hamblett is the glue that holds the business relationship together. It’s obvious that Alan has the expertise and experience we need but more importantly we do not just feel like a statistic among other clients. Instead we feel very valued and that we are important with every contact made.’

‘Grace Strawford is persistent and brave in the face of opposition.’

Key clients

National Grid

Marston Group

Hook Norton Brewery

Europcar

Newriver Retail Ltd

University of Warwick

Bournemouth University

UPS

UPS SCS

Institute of Chartered Accountants for England and Wales

McIntyre Hudson

Work highlights

  • Advising the University of Warwick on the recovery of former student debts.
  • Advising Edgbaston High School for Girls on the recovery of unpaid school fees from parents after the school’s own internal credit control processes have not resulted in their payment.
  • Advising Cadent Gas on a claim of £1.8m on behalf of the energy company for damage caused to its mains supply by piling contractor.

Private client > Agriculture and estates Tier 1

Shakespeare Martineau LLP is best known for its work on natural capital projects. Under the direction of Peter Snodgrass , the team has been busy advising on various transactions relating to farms and rural land as well as renewable energy schemes, agricultural tenancies and providing succession planning and tax advice to its farming clients. Snodgrass is recognised for his work on agricultural tenancies and farm partnerships. Other core areas of focus for the practice are farm litigation and advising on farm partnership breakdowns. Jennie Wheildon  receives plaudits for her work on a variety of complex property matters while Iwan Williams joined the group from Charles Russell Speechlys LLP.  

Practice head(s):

Testimonials

The firm took on our case which was an unusual tenancy surrender and regrant situation. Where detailed knowledge of the relevant act and thinking outside the box for situations were required the team worked together to ensure we had the best up to date information. To ensure continued work momentum, virtual meetings were held and tracked changes on documents were kept updated. Collaboration with our agent and accountant was prompt, resulting in a good working relationship all round’.

‘Peter Snodgrass and Kimberley Brookes were proactive throughout the case and used their agricultural tenancy specialist knowledge appropriately. I valued their initiative to research information for our unusual tenancy case. They were also great at communicating updates by written emails and virtual calls’.

Generally, the individual lawyers I have worked with at SHMA have been knowledgeable, approachable and available. There have been some difficult and emotional cases in which they have helped me enormously in my business as a farmer/landowner/landlord/rural entrepreneur‘.

‘The team is very helpful and collaborative in dealing with quite complex farm sales matters. The lawyers have dealt with a number of sales in quite difficult circumstances throughout Covid. I have not had this level of feedback and communication previously from other solicitors‘.

‘We have been dealing predominantly with Kimberley Brookes. Peter Snodgrass has always been available to advise as needed and is extremely approachable’.

The agriculture and estates team is a league above anyone else in the area. The team is streamlined, quick and efficient and very closely knit. Peter, Jenni Wheldon and Kimberley Brooks are very good professionally. A truly great and kind team. Their webinars in lockdown were excellent and varied too. Truly modern solicitors’

‘Peter Snodgrass is truly exceptional. He is super bright and has the ability to put into a few lines what it takes others hours to do. His clear concise mind makes him my number one port of call not only for instant advice but also recommendations particularly on succession where he excels‘.

‘The team is knowledgeable and works well together to offer a thorough and expert service to the client. Peter Snodgrass is an excellent combination of being an approachable expert. He clearly enjoys his subject and demonstrates an impressive breadth of knowledge. In addition he makes himself available and is quick and thorough with his advice’.

Work highlights

    Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 1

    Shakespeare Martineau LLP has a well-established reputation for its work on a vast array of wealth, tax and succession planning matters for families, landed estates, entrepreneurs and business owners.  It is also adept at providing elderly client advice and helping those who have personal injury trusts. Lesley Davis  is a key figure whose areas of focus include advising on charitable trusts, CIOS, family investment companies and powers of attorney. Hannah Tait  acts for clients ranging from lottery winners to those with farming and business interests while Verity Kirby  is particularly recommended for her work with business owners, wealthy individuals and their families on their estate and succession planning.

    Practice head(s):

    Testimonials

    ‘The firm is able to appear friendly and approachable whilst reassuringly professional. The depth of knowledge was excellent’.

    ‘Anne Tromans and Victoria Taylor have been so supportive and reassuring throughout one of the most stressful situations in my life. Their depth of knowledge is incredible’.

    Strong in its support of charitable trusts. Clarity of explanation in tackling property matters, clear presentation of breakdown of costs in routine charity management‘.

    ‘Partner led by among others the charming and outstandingly efficient Lesley Davis, (who every private client firm in the City wishes was working with them) the full service offering of business succession, charities, trusts, wills and succession puts this firm in the top bracket‘.

    ‘Lesley Davis has an unassuming, calm manner which puts all clients at their ease. No matter what the issue she gets to the nub of what is required with speed and makes each client feel they are important to her which they are. An extremely safe pair of hands’.

    ‘Hannah Tait very helpful and patient whilst still retaining her professionalism. Trustworthy and extremely knowledgeable in this challenging subject’.

    Work highlights

      Public sector > Education Tier 1

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP has a strong contentious and non-contentious offering for university and college clients, including estates matters, employment advice, disputes, complex governance, partnerships and regulatory and policy work. The head of the team is Smita Jamdar , a ‘genuine authority in the higher education sector’ who specialises in governance, student facing and constitutional matters for leading universities. David Browne is the lead employment partner for the majority of the team’s education clients and Geraldine Swanton advises universities and colleges on student complaints, discipline, fitness to practise and equality and human rights law.

      Practice head(s):

      Smita Jamdar

      Other key lawyers:

      David Browne; Geraldine Swanton

      Testimonials

      ‘The team really understand the sector and their clients. They always listen fully to the client’s requirements and the context in which the advice/guidance is being sought, before offering advice tailored to the specific situation.’

      ‘The partners and solicitors are well informed, approachable and provide clear and relevant information to the cases where we have instructed them to act for us. They have an excellent understanding of educational law and the areas that we come across when dealing with student matters. Their advice and communication is always focussed and tailored to the facts of the case, is direct and consistent, highlighting and recommending the approach we should take and the implications this could have on the case.’

      ‘Shakespeare Martineau provide expert knowledge of higher education legislation and are highly proactive at engaging with the higher education sector to both share and deepen their understanding.’

      ‘The team are always extremely helpful and flexible where urgency is required. The advice is always excellent technically, but with a focus on pragmatic and tailored to the needs we have as a customer.’

      ‘Expert knowledge of the sector. Practical advice tailored to minimise risk in best possible way without impeding progress. Good updates on key issues for sector on a regular basis.’

      ‘Smita Jamdar listens to the concerns, is quick to understand the picture and advises on the full case, bringing in other relevant factors to the case. The advice given sets out implications, risks and consequences in each case, so we are able to make informed choices on how we proceed.’

      ‘Smita Jamdar in particular is excellent – an informed and engaging speaker, always willing to go above and beyond to share her expertise.’

      ‘Smita Jamdar is insightful and a genuine authority in the higher education sector.’

      Key clients

      University of Hertfordshire

      Brunel University

      University of Cambridge

      University of Worcester

      University of Exeter

      UCLAN

      University of Sheffield

      University College London

      Cardiff University

      University of Roehampton

      Bournemouth University

      Liverpool John Moore University

      Leicester College

      Barnsley College

      Wiltshire College

      Dudley College

      Abingdon and Witney College

      North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College

      Quality Assurance Agency

      West Dean College

      University of the Arts London

      University of Derby

      Staffordshire University

      Aberystwyth University

      University of West London

      University of Lincoln

      SOAS

      Derby College

      Work highlights

      • Acting on the acquisition of Ruskin College.
      • Acting on the Infinity Park manufacturing technology and innovation hub.
      • Carrying out an investigation into a Russell Group university’s enterprise activities.

      Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Elsewhere in East Midlands Tier 1

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP is a reputable East Midlands corporate and M&A practice, handling sales, acquisitions and reorganisations with values of up to £100m. Roy Botterill leads the Leicester team which is known for its expertise servicing corporate and family business clients in the healthcare, engineering, manufacturing and IT space; he is an experienced counsel for US based organisations and has a keen interest in the manufacturing sector, regulated industries and financial services. Lisa Botterill is recommended for healthcare transactions while Michael Squirrell, based at the new Lincoln office, works with the Nottingham and Leicester teams to advise on M&A, reorganisations, investments and governance matters, often on behalf of IP-rich businesses and charities.

      Practice head(s):

      Roy Botterill

      Key clients

      Co-Fresh Snack Foods

      Shield Engineering Group

      Mindera

      Langdale Group

      HGS (Leicester) Limited

      Emma Bridgewater

      Cambridge Weight Plan

      Whitworth Bros.

      Work highlights

      • Advised Rotherwood Group on the acquisition of Kington Court Community Care Centre based in Herefordshire.
      • Advised on the sale of UK-based tech firm Insignia Medical Systems to global medical imaging business Intelerad.
      • Acted for HGS on the acquisition of four petrol stations from Euro Garages, following the requirement for Euro Garages to divest themselves of a number of sites for competition purposes.

      Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant Tier 1

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP‘s Nottingham and Leicester personal injury teams are headed by Kathryn Hart , a top-tier advocate with over 30 years’ experience handling all types of fatal accidents, inquests, a niche specialism in work, agriculture and sports-related claims and a keen interest in protecting the rights of vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists. Robert Rose leads the clinical negligence practice, and has developed a strong specialism in birth trauma cases and female health issues. Leicester director Nicola Fahey is ‘becoming an established name in the Midlands’ for gynaecological and loss of fertility claims.

      Practice head(s):

      Robert Rose; Kathryn Hart

      Other key lawyers:

      Testimonials

      ‘The team is headed up by Robert Rose, who has developed the clinical negligence team from a small Midlands base to a more national presence with a London office. The team is highly diverse and all the members have a high degree of expertise and specialism.’

      ‘Robert Rose is a highly efficient team leader who not only handles his own case load but also manages the team with real professionalism. ‘

      ‘Robert Rose – as a team leader he provides an affable and approachable presence that puts clients at their ease, and he ensures that the stresses of litigation are minimised as much as possible. He is an intelligent and cerebral lawyer who can identify key issues quickly and provide quality advice.’

      ‘Nichola Fahy: is a highly intelligent clinical negligence lawyer who is now becoming an established name in the Midlands. She is really efficient in getting to the core of complex cases, and managing them effectively to gain very beneficial settlements for clients. She is “one to watch” as she has a combination of a keen eye for detail and a practical knowledge of how to achieve the best for vulnerable clients.’

      ‘Robert Rose (clinical negligence) has inexhaustible energy and excellent judgment. His instructions are always well thought out and well prepared.

      ‘Nichola Fahey is very strong technically. She spots points most would miss. She also gets on brilliantly with the clients.’

      Work highlights

      • The claimant was a child of almost 13. He was cycling to school when he left the pavement and a car collided with him, projecting him into another stationary vehicle. He sustained a fractured skull and a brain injury. He made an excellent recovery, but still has ongoing problems in particular with memory and attention, which cause him difficulties at work. The head injury also caused him to underachieve at school.   Liability was always in dispute and there were arguments about how fast the vehicle was travelling, the point at which the cyclist left the pavement and went onto the road, and whether he looked before doing so. He was not wearing a cycling helmet and there were arguments about whether a helmet would have reduced the injuries. He lacks capacity to conduct litigation so there had to be an approval hearing although he is now over 18.   The claim settled on 75/25% basis in the claimant’s favour, subject to court approval, which has been granted on 05/02/21. The net sum is £900,000.
      • Mrs T was born with a congenital abnormality, whereby she had two uteruses and one vagina. In late 2014, Mrs T underwent a smear test, which showed moderate dyskaryosis. Mrs T was advised to undergo a total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-ophorectomy. No alternative treatment options were explained to her (specifically the risks and benefits of a hysterectomy versus a colposcopy). Mrs T underwent an unnecessary hysterectomy procedure during which her caecum was perforated.   Further and as a result of the Defendant’s negligence in 2017 Mrs T was diagnosed with vaginal cancer. It is Mrs T’s case that in addition to undergoing an unnecessary hysterectomy, there was a failure to refer her for HPV testing and a colposcopy in 2005, 2013 and 2014, which led to a delay in diagnose of a tumour on the lateral wall of the vagina.   The defendant admitted that there was a breach of duty, which caused Mrs T to undergo an unnecessary hysterectomy and go on to develop vaginal cancer. Mrs T required radiotherapy and chemotherapy and it was alleged that this had caused pelvic insufficiency fractures and a left sided weakness as a result of which Mrs T was immobile. This case settled at an RTM in May 2021 for £1.55m.

      Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 1

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP is known for its expertise in acting for administering grant-making and government funded charities. The practice is also expanding its portfolio of education, animal and social housing organisations. Andrew Wilkinson specialises in complex legacy disputes, while fellow key partner, Gary Ekpenyoung is the go-to for social housing clients. In April 2022, the firm recruited former Browne Jacobson LLP partner Catherine Rustomji to lead the national charities practice.

      Practice head(s):

      Andrew Wilkinson

      Other key lawyers:

      Gary Ekpenyoung

      Testimonials

      ‘Knowledgeable and quick to respond.’

      ‘Reassuring, easy to approach and professional.’

      Key clients

      Battersea Dogs’ and Cats’ Home

      Stonewater

      Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP has ‘great depth of knowledge and real specialisation’ in contentious trusts, and continues to be a sought after counsel for complex contested Court of Protection applications, executor and will disputes. Andrew Wilkinson is one of the leading partners in the region’ and undertakes complex legacy and trusts disputes involving cross border elements, worth up to £200m. Debra Burton is another integral member of the team; she specialises in inheritance disputes. Both partners act for a significant number of local charitable organisations.

      Practice head(s):

      Andrew Wilkinson

      Other key lawyers:

      Testimonials

      ‘Debra Burton has been friendly, helpful, knowledgeable and helpfully brings in other partners / solicitors where other expertise is needed. Responsive and quick to act.’

      ‘Debra Burton is extremely knowledgeable about trusts and probate matters. She has a commercial approach and always has her eye on driving the matter to a settlement in the best interests of her clients. She will always go the extra mile for her clients.’

      ‘The Shakespeare Martineau contentious trust and probate team are well-regarded amongst their peers and act for a number of charities and trust corporations.’

      ‘The team is led by the excellent Andrew Wilkinson who is one of the leading partners in the region, very ably assisted by Debra Burton who is a ferocious adversary.’

      ‘Great depth of knowledge and real specialisation. Attention to detail. Easy to work with and know how to cut through difficult issues, especially when facing aggressive opponents.’

      ‘Shakespeare Martineau have a large contentious probate team and accordingly offer varied skill set and strength in depth, together with appropriate levels of fee earner to ensure the cost-effectiveness of the work undertaken in each case. They are reputable as one of the leading expert firms in this practice area particularly in the local marketplace.’

      ‘Debra Burton is straight-talking and client-focussed. She is an excellent choice for partnership law matters in the succession context.

      Private client > Family Tier 1

      At Shakespeare Martineau LLP, Katherine Marshall  leads the divorce and family team in Leicester, which ‘exudes professionalism and knowledge’ across all family law specialisms, with particular strength in nuptial agreements, surrogacy law, children law and multijurisdictional proceedings. Sonia Bachu is sought after for high-value financial remedy cases involving family businesses, inherited wealth and pension issues.

      Practice head(s):

      Katherine Marshall

      Other key lawyers:

      Sonia Bachu

      Testimonials

      ‘Shakespeare Martineau’s team exude professionalism and knowledge, which makes a client feel super comfortable to be represented by them.’

      ‘Personable, always on hand and very successful in their services. Its an all encompassing family law practice, so that is a real strength.’

      ‘Sonia Bachu – is a dedicated and experienced senior solicitor who is able to put across complex concepts and ideas to a client in a friendly and easy to understand manner.’

      ‘Impressive and dedicated team who can fight a case when required but also good judgement as to when to try and broker a settlement.’

      Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 1

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP has a good ‘depth of experience within the team’ and continues to be a strong choice for UK and overseas estate planning and administration, work involving agricultural/farming estates, and private taxation. Department head Suzanne Leggott in Leicester is ‘very knowledgeable and adds value to all assignments.’ Consultant Mark Dunkley and director Sarah Brack are also highly experienced members of the the same office. Virginia Harvey is the lead contact in Nottingham.

      Practice head(s):

      Suzanne Leggott

      Other key lawyers:

      Virginia Harvey; Mark Dunkley; Sarah Brack

      Testimonials

      ‘The team are very approachable and friendly, but also knowledgeable and professional. Mark in particular has a huge amount of experience in Court of Protection and this gives him a certain level of gravitas, whilst still remaining approachable and friendly.’

      ‘Attention to detail, practical solutions good all round service to other departments’

      ‘Suzanne Leggott is very knowledgeable, stands her ground and adds value to all assignments.’

      ‘Sarah Brack has been very caring understanding and helpful with everything. Somehow always find time to respond to my questions or concerns and been very supportive in some challenges along the way.’

      ‘Sarah Brack has always been extremely approachable, easy to talk to and helpful/supportive.’

      ‘Sarah Brack is very efficient and easy to talk to, she is also a very good communicator.’

      ‘Depth of experience within the team. Very helpful and clear.’

      ‘Mark Dunkley is extremely knowledgeable. Suzanne Leggott is highly regarded and is very proactive with clients.’

      Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in the East Midlands Tier 1

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP advises clients such as landowners, promoters and housebuilders, on acquisitions and disposals of land for residential development, including for student housing, and on the full lifecycle of commercial developments. The ‘first class team’ delivers ‘consistent levels of service and advice’ on ‘issues across the real estate sector ranging from the mundane to the complex’. The practice has a particular specialisation in regard to later living schemes where it acts for home operators, investors and financial institutions on, among others, securing finance, managing sales as well as leasing arrangements. Louise Ingram, who specialises in residential and mixed-use developments, leads the team from Leicester, working alongside Kate Hall, who has recently been increasingly busy advising on acquisitions, disposals and refinancings of care homes, and Martin Jones, who specialises in commercial developments.

      Practice head(s):

      Louise Ingram

      Other key lawyers:

      Kate Hall; Martin Jones

      Testimonials

      ‘The practice as a whole has a friendly, approachable way of working which through relaxed meetings and patient follow-up allows decisions to be made with minimum stress. The people we work with all share this quality, while at the same time being totally professional

      ‘Louise Ingram: calm and efficient. One of the best land sales lawyers I have dealt with.’

      ‘A great team to work with fully very professionally run by Louise Ingram.’

      ‘Louise has excellent communication and very proactive rather than reactive. You can always contact Louise and she will reply immediately. I have recommended Louise to a number of friends and competitors as she is so good.’

      ‘The team deliver consistent levels of service and advice and are able to resource and deal promptly with issues across the real estate sector ranging from the mundane to the complex.’

      ‘Both Partners and Associates are accessible and responsive understanding commercial imperatives and will go the ‘extra mile’ to ensure matters are addressed and deadlines adhered to. It is also worth noting that the approach is also embraced with a positive cheerful attitude making working with the team, especially in stressful situations, that much easier.’

      ‘Always respond on a timely basis and a helpful, practical approach.’

      Key clients

      Parker Strategic Land Limited

      Manor Oak Homes Limited

      The Drummond Trust

      Everards Brewery Limited

      Armstrong Logistics Limited

      Work highlights

      • Acted for the Drummond Trust on the development of the urban extension at New Lubbesthorpe, Leicester; provided advice on a wide range of material infrastructure matters.

      Real estate > Commercial property: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP has a focus on assisting developer clients throughout the whole lifecycle of developments, from initial option acquisition to development funding and sale. Further key areas of work relate to acting for various players from the financial markets on acquisitions of property investments, secured lending and short-term development finance. The team has sector specialisations in the later living and healthcare as well as, and in particular, the energy sector where it advises energy developers and infrastructure investors on a variety of schemes, including large-scale battery storage projects. Peter Dilks heads the practice and provides clients with ‘commercially sound solutions’. ‘Hard working and diligentJohn Buckley joined as legal director from Tees Law in October 2021.

      Practice head(s):

      Peter Dilks

      Other key lawyers:

      Testimonials

      ‘Large multi disciplined firm capable of dealing with large or small scale work types practically and efficiently.’

      ‘Approachable, knowledgeable and efficient and professional in their advice.’

      ‘Commercial approach – already thought through commercial viewpoint as well as legal considerations before making recommendations or discussing issues.’

      ‘Peter Dilks also deserves mention as always being approachable and having a ‘can-do’ attitude to get things done any any issues resolved. It is refreshing to have a lawyer suggest commercially sound solutions rather than just pose the issues.’

      ‘John Buckley is a breath of fresh air. Hard working and diligent.’

      Key clients

      Statera Energy Limited

      Last Mile Infrastructure Group

      Brackley Properties Developments Limited

      Lloyds Bank plc

      National Westminster Bank plc

      Shoby Properties Limited

      Electricity North West Limited

      Johal group and pension funds

      FPC Electric Land

      Arlington Energy

      EL (Newark) Limited

      Work highlights

      • Completed numerous large-scale industrial and warehousing deals for Brackley Property Developments Limited, including two deals at Walsall; one being a speculative forward-funding deal for two units with a nationally recognised investor and another on a forward-funding deal for one unit with a pension fund and a pre-letting to one of the fastest growing e-retailers.
      • Acted for Statera Energy on the property aspects of what is one of the UK’s largest disposal of battery storage assets to Gresham House.

      TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1

      Litigation powerhouse Shakespeare Martineau LLP is well-regarded for its representation of SMEs and start-ups in the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court, its stellar Midlands reputation and specialism in telecoms, retail, life sciences and education. Ed Wright is the lead on non-contentious healthcare and life science mandates.

      Practice head(s):

      Ed Wright

      Testimonials

      ‘Wide-ranging expertise. Can give specialist IP advice, but also broader legal advice on connected matters and wider commercial considerations.’

      ‘The IP team are a real asset to Shakespeare Martineau. The support they provide to our early-stage start-ups has been invaluable. They are able to package and translate complex legal structures and processes into simpler concepts and filled a key capability gap. ‘

      ‘It’s also refreshing to see an IP team that champions diversity. The founder of the company’s diversity and inclusion network is from within the team, and it’s great to see how this experience translates into the legal advice and insights they provide for us.’

      ‘Ed Wright has been incredible supportive, and displayed professionalism and outstanding legal and business knowledge at all times.’

      Key clients

      Emma Bridgewater

      Cenex

      Cambridge Weight Plan

      JDS Foods Limited

      Moviebox Megastores (International) Limited

      Oriental Star Agencies Limited

      Source Bioscience

      TSJP t/a Nativve

      Replay Maintenance

      PRQR

      University of Nottingham

      Spirit Health Group

      BPR Medical

      Future Health Technologies

      Purpose Media

      Quensus

      Recresco

      Creative62

      Work highlights

      • Advised on co-branded rollout of the University of Nottingham’s Ingenuity Programme to use with other UK universities, to enable them to create a regional Ingenuity Programme under the Ingenuity name.
      • Advising Moviebox on several successful injunction applications during covid-19 involving disputes over the removal of copyright takedown notices issued through YouTube.
      • Advised leading university facing strike action in relation to lecturer material based on withdrawal of performers’ rights.

      TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport Tier 1

      The Nottingham team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP is led by head of sport Ed Wright , working in tandem with employment disputes specialist Rhys Wyborn . The firm works with professional sports clubs, governing bodies and commercial clients on a range of issues; Wright's focus is on commercial matters, both contentious and non-contentious, including issues relating to contracts, intellectual property, corporate governance and data protection.

      Practice head(s):

      Ed Wright; Rhys Wyborn

      Key clients

      SportsAid

      British Orienteering

      My mHealth Ltd

      Sheffield and Hallamshire Football Association

      Incus Performance

      Grassroots Football Media Limited

      Purpose Media

      PlayGolf

      Work highlights

      • Advised Replay Maintenance in relation to redrafting standard software licence terms for their maintenance software package/product, preparing appropriate preliminary heads of terms and template software licensing agreements for third party arrangements in Australia and US and negotiated the terms of an appropriate US intellectual property rights licence agreement.
      • Advised Incus Performance on product-consistent terms and conditions of supply, a number of template agreements and a collaboration agreement to act as a contractual framework for a range of ongoing collaborative project(s) with the Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO).
      • Advised British Orienteering on trademark licensing issues in developing the client’s Xplorer product for organisations like schools and sports centres.

      Public sector > Education: institutions Tier 1

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP advises on estates, complex governance and disputes, with clients including a number of Russell Group universities. The practice is part of a broader group of organisations, meaning it is able to draw from experts in a wide range of fields. The team is led by the well-respected Smita Jamdar, who specialises in governance and constitutional matters, also sitting on the Higher Education Commission and the Student Futures Commission – she is ‘acknowledged as a sector leader’. In May 2021, Clive Read joined from VWV – he leads on real estate matters from the firm’s Birmingham base.

      Practice head(s):

      Smita Jamdar

      Other key lawyers:

      Clive Read; Frank Bouette

      Testimonials

      ‘The advice is comprehensive and covers issues and points of law we often don’t think about being linked to the issue. We work regularly with the firm and that means when we have repeat issues the suggest and provide training to mitigate against future cases or risks. The billing is agreed prior to starting any work and is accurately assessed. They understand the diversity agenda, sector wide issues such as sexual harassment and are knowledgeable in all areas of law.’

      ‘Smita Jamdar always makes herself or one of her senior solicitors available, even if we are calling in an evening or weekend for urgent issues. Smita and colleagues give straightforward advice appropriate to the person’s knowledge of the law, adjusting the approach to client knowledge and experience.’

      ‘The team are highly knowledgeable and insightful – providing excellent analysis of the legislation and how universities can meet their requirements. The Shakespeare Martineau education blog is an excellent addition to their expert analysis.’

      ‘Smita Jamdar is the outstanding legal commentator, regularly speaking at sector-wide events, writing blogs and providing expert insight for universities. She and her team are outstanding.’

      ‘Highly responsive and pragmatic. They have a good understanding of the sector and keep abreast of developments to ensure they are able to give sound advice which is informed by and reflects the current environment.’

      ‘Easy to deal with, responsive, knowledgeable individuals with no nonsense approach.’

      ‘I am treated like a valued client no matter how big or small the job is.’

      ‘Smita Jamdar – very responsive and knowledgeable. Acknowledged as a sector leader. Clive Read is also excellent and a pleasure to work with.’

      Key clients

      SOAS

      Brunel University

      University College London

      University of the Arts London

      University of West London

      University of Hertfordshire

      University of Exeter

      University of Cambridge

      University of Worcester

      University of Roehampton

      Cardiff University

      Bournemouth University

      Liverpool John Moore University

      University of Sheffield

      UCLAN

      Wiltshire College

      Abingdon and Witney College

      North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College

      Dudley College

      Leicester College

      Barnsley College

      Quality Assurance Agency

      West Dean College

      University of Derby

      Staffordshire University

      Aberystwyth University

      University of Lincoln

      Derby College

      Work highlights

      • Advising University of West London on the acquisition of Ruskin College.
      • Acting the Edward James Foundation t/a West Dean College on the acquisition of KLC School of Design.
      • Carrying out an investigation into a Russell Group university’s enterprise activities.

      Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham Tier 2

      The team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP specialises in business-to-business disputes, shareholder disputes and warranty claims. The firm acts for clients across a range of sectors such as education, energy, manufacturing and IT and telecoms. Barry Jervis  has significant experience managing corporate disputes and asset recovery matters, especially those with high value or international elements. Andrew Adams has considerable expertise in energy while Mark Beesley  specialises in contractual litigation. James Woolstenhulme  has established himself as an expert in in corporate disputes with a special interest in shareholder disputes, injunctions and procurement issues.

      Practice head(s):

      Barry Jervis

      Other key lawyers:

      Mark Beesley; Andrew Adams; James Woolstenhulme; Claire Burrows; Ben Humphreys; Catherine Savage

      Testimonials

      ‘The team are knowledgeable but also extremely capable of summating complex legal issues into exactly what is important.’

      ‘Shakespeares are one of the most creative and enterprising firms in the country.’

      ‘They combine wise strategic advice with a cutting-edge and innovative approach to litigation strategy.’

      ‘Andrew Adams, Ben Humphreys and Catherine Savage have displayed a deep knowledge of the Higher Education sector on a range of matters they have assisted us with.’

      ‘James Woolstenhulme is the energetic and commercially savvy leader of many of Shakespeares’ most important cases and client relationships.’

      Key clients

      Sanman Property Management Ltd

      Albert Ralph Coleman & others

      Accessible Orthodontics LLP & Accessible Orthodontics (O) Ltd

      Majority shareholders of H G Robinson & Sons Ltd

      Anglia Ruskin University

      Leicester College

      Alliance Surgical PLC & Alliance Medical Indemnity Limited

      Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems (UK) Ltd

      Associated Architects LLP

      Maloney Metal Craft Ltd

      Prosperous Global China Capital Limited

      Work highlights

      • Acting for a high net worth individual in a claim and counterclaim valued in the region of £20million relating to the terms of outstanding loans.
      • Acting for a property management company in High Court proceedings to enforce contractual terms relating to a £20million property development and obtaining urgent freezing orders against the defendants.
      • Defending four warrantors facing a claim for breach of warranties worth in excess of £8million arising from a corporate transaction.

      Employment Tier 2

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP excels in the education sector and continues to advise on major international collaborations between UK universities and partners overseas on a host of issues such as large restructurings and management departures. In Birmingham, David Browne  heads the practice that has expertise in other areas such as logistics, manufacturing, retail and sports and also has a flourishing third sector client base and is adept at handling complex employment tribunal litigation too. Other names to note include Tom Long Michael Hibbs  and Matt  McDonald .

      Practice head(s):

      Testimonials

      ‘Very approachable, customer focussed and responsive and very practical in its advice (not too risk averse compared to others I have experienced in employment law). Good at explaining cost benefits of particular actions and approaches‘.

      Colleagues are very responsive and make themselves available when necessary dependent on the urgency of the issue in hand. Pragmatic and very strong at assessing genuine risk (rather than worst case risk). Extremely supportive in their approach in very sensitive cases – more so than other practices I’ve worked with. Tom Long and Esther Maxwell deserve particular mention‘.

      ‘The lawyers were able to provide pragmatic legal advice to help management assess the level of risk they were able to manage in the situation‘.

      ‘A balance of empathy, purposefulness and strong legal knowledge in a complex situation‘.

      ‘Very supportive and well informed team. Michael Hibbs – knowledgeable and salient advice. They support our business very well’.

      ‘Real depth in the HE sector. Partners get to the crux of an issue quickly and focus on what you actually need to know. Good with non-legal clients. Tom Long, David Brown – responsive, approachable, to the point, depth of sector knowledge’.

      Solid team, knowledgeable and pragmatic. Good links to other specialisms within the firm when an inter-disciplinary approach is needed. Tom Long has a pragmatic, commercial focus‘.

      ‘As a client within the higher education sector, what I value is Shakespeare Martineau’s particular strength and knowledge of higher education, both in terms of the legal framework but also how it operates in practice. They have built a team that truly understands the sector and that makes their advice infinitely more reliable and valuable. Esther Maxwell – has been a massive help in dealing with some really difficult claimants on some very complex litigation cases. Detail oriented and technically skilled’.

      Key clients

      The University of Cambridge

      The University of Warwick

      The Royal College of Art

      CBSO

      The University of Hertfordshire

      The University of West London

      SOAS University of London

      ArcelorMittal

      Acorns Children’s Hospice

      Loughborough University

      D4T4 Solutions Plc

      Dawsongroup Plc

      Ansell (UK) Ltd

      Solihull College and University Centre

      Staffordshire University

      Work highlights

      • Successful in having a claim of whistleblowing and discrimination on the grounds of philosophical belief struck out at an early stage. This was a particularly topical and potentially precedent setting case as the claimant, who had resigned following complaints about his conduct, was asserting that his opposition to the Black Lives Matter movement constituted a philosophical belief under the Equality Act 2010.
      • Advised a number of university clients in respect of issues arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. This has included advising universities on their ability to take advantage of the Government furlough scheme in light of its restrictive application to publicly funded organisations.
      • Continues to act for a Russell Group university in respect of complex and multi-faceted litigation brought by an academic member of staff who has now been dismissed. The academic commenced litigation against the university in 2016 and has since brought claims of whistleblowing; victimisation; harassment; and unfair dismissal.

      Employment > Immigration Tier 2

      Tijen Ahmet , who divides her time between Birmingham and London, leads the practice at Shakespeare Martineau LLP. It acts for global businesses across a wide range of sectors from finance to manufacturing and retail. The group has specialist expertise in the education sector and frequently supports HR teams with new sponsor licence management issues to assist with the recruitment of skills from overseas and the prevention of illegal working practices in the UK. Michael Hibbs is the other key contact.

      Practice head(s):

      Other key lawyers:

      Key clients

      Europe based insurance client

      Global food & plant-based foods client

      Luxury boutique hotel management client

      A higher education university

      Games manufacturing client

      Work highlights

      • Acting for one of the top ten largest European-based insurance companies in the world with all business immigration support from sponsor licence management, advising on day-to-day immigration compliance and global planning post Brexit. It also supports the client with skilled worker assignment and employee transfers to the UK.
      • Successfully representing a global food company client with sponsor licence application and subsequent appointment of senior non-UK staff with skilled worker visas. It advises the client with visa eligibility assessments and support their HR team with all business-related visas.
      • Acting for a luxury five-star boutique hotel chain to appoint senior management roles and manage business immigration from sponsor licence application to advising and supporting with skilled worker and intra company transfer visas.

      Finance > Banking and finance Tier 2

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP is renowned for having a very strong Islamic finance practice that advises clients like Masraf Al Rayan and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank. The Islamic finance team is led by Mohammed Saqub , who also leads the real estate finance team. Naomi Tudor  leads the firm's corporate financing team and her expertise covers transactions involving charity or education institutions and crowdfunding. She is supported by Christopher Gayle   and John Rice  who work heavily in short-term and bridge financing, while Helen Readett  is the key contact for healthcare and development lending.

      Practice head(s):

      Naomi Tudor; Mohammed Saqub

      Other key lawyers:

      Christopher Gayle; John Rice; Russell Jarvis

      Testimonials

      ‘Personalised service and always available to have a chat with if a discussion is required.’

      ‘The team at Shakespeare are both professional and friendly. They provide updates on the business we have in hand and complete transactions in a timely manner.’

      ‘Mohammed Saqub – available 24/7 and on the ball with all the cases.’

      ‘Mohammed Saqub is a venerable Islamic lawyer. He leads the team and has an exceptional client following from the major Middle Eastern financial institutions. His clients trust him to give good practical advice on complex matters and he always delivers.’

      ‘Naomi Tudor is never fazed by a question, is diligent in her responses and will always provide help where she can. A very professional individual with a fantastic work ethic.’

      Key clients

      Lloyds Bank plc

      AIB Group (UK) Plc

      Santander UK Plc

      Shawbrook Bank

      The Charity Bank Limited

      Yorkshire Bank

      Habib Bank Zurich plc

      Handelsbanken

      Leumi ABL

      United Trust Bank Plc

      Aldermore Bank Plc

      Gatehouse Bank Plc

      Al Rayan Bank Plc

      Westgate Healthcare Group

      Cambridge Capital Partners Limited

      Boost & Co Limited

      Sherwood Oak Homes Limited

      Work highlights

      • Advised Bank of Scotland on the drafting of a £10m revolving credit facility under the government’s CBILS scheme for the borrower in the automotive sector.
      • Drafted a new loan agreement to re-finance debt as part of a re-domicile of the borrower from BVI to Isle of Man.
      • Acted for Blackmead Infrastructure Limited as investment vehicle of Foresight Group LLP (a global independent infrastructure and private equity investment manager) as the noteholder in connection with its £15 million secured loan note facility for Reto Property Finance Limited, to provide finance for its property development secured loans business to Jersey and Guernsey based businesses.

      Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2

      Shakespeare Martineau LLP has an excellent reputation for complex contentious matters for insolvency practitioners and lenders. In addition, the team also regularly undertakes advisory projects for major corporates. Andrew Taylor  is the national head of the RRI team, advising insolvency practitioners and lenders on turnaround options, formal insolvency issues and validity of securities. He is supported by legal director Sheena Tandy , who has a wide range of experience advising on contentious and non-contentious corporate and personal insolvency.

      Practice head(s):

      Andrew Taylor

      Other key lawyers:

      Sheena Tandy

      Testimonials

      ‘A commercial team that sees the value in introducing other service lines and advisors to its clients.’

      ‘My key contact is Andy Taylor. He provides pragmatic advice and whilst highlighting potential risks and hurdles, he also focuses on solutions.’

      ‘Excellent advice always provided in a timely manner. Very collaborative and always available which is extremely helpful. A very helpful team which gives straightforward sensible advice.’

      ‘Andrew Taylor is commercial and extremely knowledgeable about his subject. I find him approachable and available whenever needed. I am always happy to recommend him.’

      ‘Shakespeare Martineau’s Banking and Insolvency practice has always delivered excellent, clear advice at a reasonable price. They have good technical strength within the team and can always access subject matter experts quickly if required.’

      ‘I really rate Andy Taylor as his advice is always considered but clear and unambiguous. He is always highly responsive and prides himself on “getting off the fence” and providing advice which allows you to get on and make a decision whilst also being aware of the risks in any situation.’

      Key clients

      Teneo Restructuring (formerly Deloitte)

      Kroll Advisory Ltd. (formerly Duff & Phelps)

      Lloyds Banking Group

      Quantuma LLP

      Interpath Ltd – t/a Interpath Advisory[/KPMG LLP]

      PwC LLP

      FRP Advisory Trading Limited

      Mazars

      BDO

      RSM

      Leonard Curtis

      Grant Thornton

      Work highlights

      • Advising the administrators of 11 companies encompassing 37 individual care homes, most recently successfully applying to extend the administrations on all 11 companies.
      • Advising the liquidators of Chesterpeak in pursuing the directors of the company for antecedent transactions totalling more than £5million.
      • Advised Kroll Advisory Ltd. on the administration of various parts of the Signature Property Group, including various real estate assets and other assets including the hotel featured in the BBC documentary “The Grand Party Hotel”, a cruise -liner and the shareholdings in 70 separate subsidiaries within the Signature Group.

      Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 2

      With Mark Beesley  at the helm, Shakespeare Martineau LLP team continues to be busy, acting for claimants in numerous professional negligence cases, many of which are funded by using conditional fee arrangements. Beesley has an excellent reputation for his work on complex professional negligence claims, primarily against independent financial advisors, solicitors and accountants. Michael Young  has particular strength in claims that have substantial property and/or financial issues.

      Practice head(s):

      Other key lawyers:

      Testimonials

      ‘The practice is flexible, assessing client needs situationally rather than adopting a cookie-cutter approach to taking instructions’.

      ‘Michael Young is exceptional. He takes time to understand the client’s issues and is then pragmatic in both suggesting and then steering a way forward. He is collaborative by nature but is willing to be hard-nosed when required to secure the best client outcome. He is efficient and effective in getting the most out of counsel’.

      ‘Particularly accurate and simple advice. Michael Young- took the case as if it was his own’.

      ‘The people in the team are approachable and diligent. Michael Young is brilliant. He is always across the facts of a case and has a great tactical mind allowing him to see the bigger picture and achieve results for his clients’.

      Key clients

      Starston International

      Ansell RUS LLC

      Brian Henderson

      Diffusion Alloys

      Nikki Maharaj

      Graham Ketley

      Work highlights

      • Advising Ansell RUS LLC on the pursuit of a company under a bank guarantee that led to a defence where it was claimed sign off was given without authority, leading to negligence issues. There were various jurisdictional issues as the client was based in Russia with the original debtor in Russia, and the company controller who signed the guarantee having various assets in USA at face value. Case won in the UK. Enforcement ongoing in USA, with challenge in the Supreme Court in South Dakota.
      • Advising Starston International Limited on a claim in conjunction with bespoke tax specialists. The company, a management and business consultancy practice, and its founders entered into various financial schemes that have since been pursued in relation to taxes from HMRC.
      • Advised Brian Henderson in a successful action through its Lime brand which aims to try and engage more mid-range enquiries that might otherwise slip through the net. These are often through necessity via CFAs or similar funding arrangements. There was a successful resolution of a business dispute .

      Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 2

      Andrew Wilkinson  heads the department at Shakespeare Martineau LLP which has considerable experience in the social housing and education sectors. Core areas of focus include advising on complex corporate transactions, various governance, regulatory and constitutional matters as well issues regarding legacies. Lesley Davis  is well-regarded for her work in setting up and managing charitable trusts, foundations and CIOs while Smita Jamdar  regularly assists leading universities on a wide array of governance, student facing and constitutional matters. Michael Hibbs  advises on various HR and employment law matters. Rachel Gwynne  is also recommended whereas Catherine Rustomji recently joined the team from Browne Jacobson LLP.

      Practice head(s):

      Testimonials

      ‘The team had expertise in my area of concern and was approachable and easy to communicate with. The individuals I spoke to were both generous with their time and energies. They provided me with concise written information for me to digest at my leisure and were sympathetic to my lack of understanding in anything legal!’.

      Key clients

      Dance 4 Limited

      The DanceXchange Limited

      Diocese of Birmingham

      St Martin’s Trust

      Stonewater Group

      Trinity Hospitals CIO

      Heart of England Mencap

      Work highlights

      • Advising the Diocese of Birmingham on employment, safeguarding, property matters and other general queries.
      • Advising Dance 4 Limited and The DanceXchange Limited on a planned merger to form a new combined charitable legal entity to bring together a single strategic organisation inspiring people through dance to serve the Midlands.
      • Running the day-to-day administration of the Heart of England Mencap and acting as clerk to the trustees. Advising the trustees on their duties regarding investment management, alongside specialist property advice in an ongoing right to light case.

      Private client > Family: Birmingham Tier 2

      Mary Kaye , practice head of Shakespeare Martineau LLP, deals with a broad range of complex children matters; she is supported by Helen Bowns  who specialises in complicated financial remedy cases involving farms, overseas assets and difficult partnership disputes. Other key figures include Prem Ahark, who is particularly skilled at advising on pre-and post-nuptial agreements, as well as Aasha Choudhary who recently joined the team from Mills & Reeve LLP. Key clients include high-net-worth families, high-profile footballers, business professionals and CEOs.

      Practice head(s):

      Testimonials

      Mary Kaye and her team are dedicated to doing the best for their clients. They are responsive, approachable and have a wealth of experience and knowledge‘.

      ‘I have worked with Mary Kaye as an opponent on a complex childcare case. I was impressed by her tenacity and her drive to get the best outcome for her client but also her empathy for the child. Mary is a straightforward, no nonsense lawyer who comes up with practical solutions to complex legal problems which draw upon her wealth of experience in family law’.

      ‘The team is well organised, passionate and undertakes good quality work with accuracy and determination. Prem Ahark  is incredibly hardworking and tenacious. She will leave no stone unturned both in financial remedy and children matters to ensure that all aspects of her client’s case have been explored so as to ensure the best possible outcome’.

      Mary Kaye is a star. She provides an exceptional level of service to her clients. Her attention to detail is legendary. She works incredibly hard to ensure that her clients are supported throughout the process. She is clear in her advice to her clients and they respond in kind. She is approachable and has a fabulous sense of humour which is much needed in the work that we do. She has an impressive following of repeat business and referrals, typifying how well regarded she is. She is a joy to work for and to be against‘.

      We have dealt with several members of the family team at Shakespeare Martineau and the service they give is second to none. The team successfully strives to achieve value for money for its clients whilst providing a first class service. The lawyers are very approachable, reliable and a pleasure to deal with at all times. Their technology setup, diversity and collaboration with all dealings within family law are easily evidenced to provide support and confidence for all their clients allowing them to move forward with their lives‘.

      ‘Mary Kaye – challenges those around her to develop their skills by giving them opportunities to learn and put into practice initiatives. She works tirelessly on the many tasks at hand – but keeps an eye on the future to anticipate what’s coming next. Prem Ahark – knowledgeable, patient and understanding and most of all cares about each and every one one of her clients.Helen Bowns – shows compassion for her caseload, evidenced by the hard work and dedication that goes into each and every case‘.

      ‘Strong legal knowledge and dedication to client care. Prem Ahark gives robust advice to her clients, is dedicated to furthering their case and works hard to achieve the best outcome for her clients‘.

      ‘Mary Kaye was the partner on the matter I dealt with. She was always willing to pick up the phone to discuss the case in order to ensure that progress was made. She worked collaboratively with me whilst doing everything she could to achieve the best outcome for her client’.

      Work highlights

        Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy, project finance and PFI Tier 2

        With a strong national and international presence, the energy and utilities team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP spent much of 2021 advising on the collapse of a number of prominent energy suppliers, including Green Supplier, Pure Planet and Daligas. Areas of focus for the team include renewable projects, customer contracts, industry metering agreements and wholesale energy trading, as well as handling regulatory investigations. Team leader Andrew Whitehead  is a specialist energy regulatory and contracts lawyer who works with many of the firm’s top clients. He is supported by Peter Dilks , who covers real estate with a focus on energy developments, as well as Ian Griffiths, who specialises in energy infrastructure and construction.

        Practice head(s):

        Andrew Whitehead

        Other key lawyers:

        Peter Dilks; Ian Griffiths

        Testimonials

        ‘Shakespeare Martineau has a team whoich understands the energy sector. It has key individuals who are leaders in this field especially to do with electricity. It is a number one choice outside of the more well known London firms.’

        ‘The specific individuals take the time to understand our business and are experienced, polite and professional when dealing with our matters.’

        ‘Large multi disciplined firm capable of dealing with large or small scale work types practically and efficiently’

        ‘Approachable, knowledgeable and efficient and professional in their advice’

        Key clients

        National Grid

        Grain LNG

        Cadent Gas

        Npower (part of E.ON)

        Last Mile Infrastructure Group (formerly Energetics)

        Statera Energy

        Octopus Energy

        Innogy e-Mobility

        Severn Trent Green Power

        Shell Energy Retail

        Highway Stops Retail

        British Independent Utilities

        Business Power & Gas

        BritNed Development

        Marble Power

        FPC Electric Land

        Electricity North West

        Forsa Energy Gas Holdings

        Tetronics Technologies

        Certas Energy

        Coventry and Solihull Waste

        South Staffordshire Water

        Anglian Water

        SUNEL UK

        Whitetower Energy

        rePLANET

        Ripple Energy

        Birmingham University

        FW Thorpe Plc

        Macquarie Bank

        Utilita Group

        Bryt Energy

        Work highlights

        • Advising Last Mile Infrastructure Group on the negotiation and documentation of land rights for electricity and gas infrastructure, notably gas pipes and electricity cables and substations.
        • Advised National Grid Electricity System Operator on the development and launch of modifications to the “dynamic containment” balancing service, and on two new services, “dynamic moderation” and “dynamic restoration”.

        Real estate > Property litigation Tier 2

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP is well-regarded by a diverse roster of corporate clients, non-profit institutes, utilities providers, and housing groups, who turn to the practice for representation in the full array of property disputes. Telecoms litigation is proving to be a burgeoning workflow, with newly promoted partner Justine Ball acting for a number of landowners in proceedings opposite major network operators. National practice head Martin Edwards regularly acts for clients before the various courts, as well as in arbitral and ADR proceedings. Commercial landlord and tenant specialist James Fownes is a key port of call for various universities and utilities companies engaged in adverse possession claims and lease disputes. Associate Pia Eames is also recommended.  

        Practice head(s):

        Martin Edwards

        Other key lawyers:

        Justine Ball; James Fownes; Pia Eames

        Testimonials

        ‘Martin Edwards has vast experience; seen it all, done it all; always looking for the practical, sensible solution. Really nice bloke to work with.’

        ‘Pia Eames is very experienced, bright, and very tenacious – really fights her client’s corner; very easy to get along with.’

        ‘The team is knowledgeable and very responsive. Thorough approach to legal analysis.’

        ‘Matthew Jones and Martin Edwards are great legal advisers who stick to agreed timelines and fees. Very knowledgeable – always keeping the big picture in mind.’

        ‘The go-to for high value and complex real estate litigation: well-resourced, well placed and very well led.’

        ‘Martin Edwards, for president of the PLA and a force to be reckoned with. Extremely diligent and with a close attention to detail.’

        ‘James Fownes has excellent tactical insight and is never phased.’

        ‘Pia Eames is a partner in the making, and a very intelligent and gifted lawyer.’

        Key clients

        Impellam Group Plc

        National Grid Plc

        Workspace Group Plc

        Anglian Water Group

        Woodland Trust

        University of the Arts London

        Eirgrid Group

        Walsall Housing Group (WHG)

        Roman Originals Plc

        Vision Express (UK) Limited

        Ryland Estates Limited

        Work highlights

        • Supporting National Grid PLC on management of wide range of real estate disputes arising out of its interest in various sites nationwide.
        • Advising Workspace Group Plc on management of all disputes connected with its telecoms portfolio in London.
        • Advising Vision Express UK Ltd in relation to all property management disputes and lease renewals across its national portfolio of retail stores.

        TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 2

        The team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP excels in handling litigation within the telecoms, construction, retail, life sciences and manufacturing sectors, a lot of which involves cross-jurisdictional elements. The firm also has a particular niche in handling a variety of non-contentious IP law issues for universities, especially regarding trade marks and licenses. The team is headed by Nicholas Briggs , whose work has an emphasis on patent litigation and other contentious work. Mauro Paiano  has experience in all forms of litigation before the high court and associate Daniel Goodall ‘s broad caseload includes IP creation, protection and enforcement mandates.

        Practice head(s):

        Nicholas Briggs

        Other key lawyers:

        Maruo Paiano; Kerry Russell; Daniel Goodall; Stewart Argo

        Testimonials

        ‘Straight talking and considerate to the client’s specific needs. Great at building relationships that add value to the service for the client. Strong at IP litigation.’

        ‘Strong team, focused on detail with a commercial approach.’

        ‘A well balanced team that has both strength and depth, and so can allocate an appropriate level of expertise to each case and task.’

        ‘Daniel Goodall is a sharp performer with a keen eye for detail, and pragmatic advice.’

        ‘Mauro Paiano has a wealth of experience and expertise in all areas of IP, including trade marks, copyright and designs, and unusually for practitioners outside of London in patents as well. He gives very sensible, commercially focused advice.’

        ‘Nick Briggs. Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills.’

        Key clients

        Salts Healthcare Limited

        Soluble Technologies Group LLC

        Mzuri Ltd

        Bei Yu Industrial Co

        Primatel Limited & Primatel Products Limited

        DeLorean Motor Company

        Niftylift Limited

        Novomatic AG

        Rokit Drinks International Limited

        Work highlights

        • Act for Salts Healthcare, a Midlands company and an international medical device manufacturer, which had been sued by Coloplast, the Danish  owner of a European patent for features of an ostomy bag
        • Enforcing trade mark rights for the “DeLorean” and “DMC” trade marks which are associated with the iconic DeLorean motor car which is featured in the film “Back to the Future”. The case reflects the need for the trade mark proprietor to protect its trade mark portfolio and its reputation, particularly in the face of damaging social media content posted online by the defendant.
        • Acted for Mzuri Limited in successfully defending a claim for infringement of two patents, in the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court (IPEC), by the manufacture and sale of our client’s flagship seed drill.

        Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Nottingham and Derby Tier 2

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP advises clients on M&A transactions and reorganisations and focuses on the logistics, life sciences, healthcare, banking and engineering sectors, among other areas. In addition to its corporate activities, the firm advises on commercial matters for a range of businesses, from start-ups to global household names. The team is jointly led by Duncan James and Edward Wright, with James handling corporate and financial matters for family-run businesses and entrepreneurs, and Wright recommended for IP-related commercial issues.

        Practice head(s):

        Duncan James; Edward Wright

        Other key lawyers:

        Roger Harcourt; Richard Vernon

        Key clients

        Agincare

        Allied Irish Bank

        Lloyds Bank

        Foresight

        Future Health

        Tympa Health Technologies

        Quadralene Holdings Limited

        Replay Maintenance Limited

        University of Nottingham

        Incus Performance Limited

        Nemaura Medical Inc./Dermal Diagnostics Limited

        Spirit Healthcare Group Limited

        Work highlights

        • Advised The Spirit Health Group on a new digital solution, which included corporate governance and structuring advice.
        • Acted for Kiwa Holdings UK Ltd on its acquisition of R.N. Electronics Limited.
        • Advising the shareholders of Alcuris on the sale of the company to Access Group.

        Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: elsewhere in the East Midlands Tier 2

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP advises and represents clients across a variety of commercial claims, such as complex contractual disputes, procurement disputes, warranty claims and partnership disputes as well as in claims concerning database misuse, claims in the media sector and urgent injunctive relief matters. Daniel Jennings has a specialisation in shareholder disputes and is further experienced in defamation and reputation claims as well as international arbitrations. Mark Beesley is managing director across the firm’s litigation services and dispute resolution business unit.

        Practice head(s):

        Mark Beesley; Daniel Jennings

        Testimonials

        ‘Daniel Jennings – pleasant to work with. Sensible.’

        Key clients

        Robert MacKenzie and Pete Mackenzie

        British Union Conference of 7th Day Adventists, North England and South England Conferences of 7th Day Adventists

        Robin Hood Energy Ltd

        Accessible Orthodontics LLP

        Henkel Gmbh

        Sanman Property Management Ltd

        Albert Ralph Coleman & Others

        University of Cambridge

        Alliance Surgical Plc

        Purplebricks Group Plc

        Knorr-Bremse Rail Systems (UK) Ltd

        Work highlights

        • Acted for the former PLC chairman and CEO, Robert Mackenzie, in claim concerning share rights and breach of directors duties valued at over £200m, in the Court of Appeal.
        • Advised and acted in defending the British Union Conference of Seventh Day Adventist Church in serious claims of defamation concerning historic allegations against teachers.
        • Acted for Brookvex IMS Limited on a complex breach of contract claim concerning historic contractual obligations and debts.

        Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Nottingham and Derby Tier 2

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP’s Nottingham office covers all commercial litigation matters and is particularly experienced in claims in the energy sector. ‘Very bright, extremely practical and knowledgeableTim Speed heads the Nottingham commercial litigation team. Speed specialises in commercial disputes in the energy sector as well as in insolvency related disputes, and clients state that they ‘trust him completely’. Kendal Litherland heads the commercial litigation sub-team for claimant professional negligence matters and Steven Skiba is ‘valued’ by clients for his work in the areas of breach of confidentiality, civil fraud and insurance claims.

        Practice head(s):

        Tim Speed

        Other key lawyers:

        Kendal Litherland; Steven Skiba

        Testimonials

        ‘Approachable, contactable. Good value for money.’

        ‘Tim Speed – affable, approcahable, pragmatic.’

        ‘Always been a team that one can trust. They provide a service which meets what the clients want and do not charge the earth for it. Have yet to come across any client who has not been anything other than very pleased with the service provided. They listen, they consider and they react in the right way.’

        ‘Tim Speed – is the essence of what one wants in a solicitor. Very bright, extremely practical and knowledgeable, and gets on very well with clients. Everyone trusts him completely.’

        ‘The practice took on my company’s case against another company for unpaid fees, has been very clear about pros and cons, and has fought for my company throughout.’

        ‘Steven Skiba – he has been forthright, transparent about billing, and I have valued his regular updates.’

        Key clients

        Teneo

        Smith Cooper

        Purplebricks Group Plc

        West Coast Trains

        Npower

        Certas Energy UK Limited

        Business Power and Gas Limited

        Menzies

        National Highways Limited

        Walsall Housing Group Limited

        Monavate Limited

        Vision Express

        Work highlights

        • Advised the board of Robin Hood Energy regarding their options, as well as the subsequently appointed administrators.
        • Advised a number of finance brokers being pursued by lenders following the insolvency of Arena Television Limited and allegations of fraud.
        • Advised Purplebricks Group Plc about claims it can pursue against parties in breach of post-termination obligations and/or breach of confidence/data protection.

        Employment Tier 2

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP‘s Nottingham and Leicester based employment team is known for successfully handling employment tribunal litigation, complex discrimination and whistleblowing cases, and employment-related aspects of corporate and commercial transactions. Philip Pepper  in Leicester heads the combined corporate, IP and employment practice, with the support of director Sandeep Leighs and Rhys Wyborn in Nottingham. Wyborn is recommended for redundancy and business reorganisations, TUPE transfers and the drafting bespoke employment contracts and HR policies. Helen  Molloy heads the practice at its new Lincoln office.

        Practice head(s):

        Philip Pepper

        Other key lawyers:

        Helen Molloy; Rhys Wyborn; Sandeep Leighs

        Testimonials

        ‘The team is outcomes focused, well resourced and user-friendly delivering honest and pragmatic advice.’

        ‘A shrewd strategist, Helen Molloy is an exceptional employment lawyer, with a particular knack for getting to the nub of a matter quickly and effectively.’

        ‘Philip Pepper is very easy to work with, explains details and risks in plain English, has a good sense of humor which I personally find relaxing when dealing with legal issues.’

        ‘Our employment solicitor, Sandeep Leighs, is a true professional and someone that our company has come to rely on. Not only is she super-knowledgeable, but always looks at all aspects of a situation and will offer several potential solutions, explaining the merits and any potential consequences of each one. I can’t compare Sandeep to a competitor, as we would not use another legal company by choice.’

        Key clients

        Rock Fish Restaurants

        We Are Pioneer Group

        Turbine Efficiency Group Ltd

        The Campbell Clinic Ltd

        Central Joinery Ltd

        Friar 149 Ltd

        KeTech Ltd

        Mosca Direct Ltd

        Navi Management Ltd

        Cherry Professional Ltd

        Field Lane Foundation

        Iceland Foods Limited

        Games Workshop

        League Against Cruel Sports

        Red Bull

        nmcn plc (in administration)

        MTR Crossrail t/a MTR Elizabeth Line

        Xpertex Ltd

        Illingworth Research Ltd

        A Wass Funeral Directors Ltd

        HAE Group Ltd

        Hireful Ltd

        MAE Deli Ltd

        PWP Building Services Ltd

        Robin Hood Energy

        Natilik Ltd

        Karcher

        Toyota Materials Handling (UK) Limited

        Everards Brewery Limited

        Motion Picture Solutions Ltd

        Fisher German Limited

        Becketts Foods Limited

        Whitworth Bros. Limited

        Ford & Slater Limited

        Leicestershire Action For Mental Health Project

        C T Dent

        Jelson Limited

        Carrs Flour Mills Limited

        Purpose Media UK Ltd

        University of Leicester

        Nottingham Trent University

        Work highlights

        • Represented Karcher in their defence of a claim for constructive unfair dismissal. This case was unusual as the claimant was employed under a fixed term apprenticeship agreement, and because the claimant brought a claim for constructive unfair dismissal, when in fact it was the respondent who had dismissed the claimant under s.98 ERA 1996, due to his lack of performance.
        • Represented Iceland Foods in a 5-day unfair dismissal and race discrimination claim. The claimant also joined his previous line manager in the claim. It involved complex allegations of discrimination over a long period of time.
        • Defending MTR Crossrail in an employment tribunal claim brought by an individual who claims she applied for a role in a safety-critical role, and was refused due to her hearing impairment.

        Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP‘s ‘approachable and hard-working’  team is a very good choice for in contentious insolvency work, and its expertise has led to an increased number of instructions involving businesses in the energy, healthcare and hospitality sectors. Sean Moran has a strong restructuring advisory practice and a good visibility in complex insolvency litigation.

        Practice head(s):

        Sean Moran

        Testimonials

        ‘Always willing to take on any case, even when not the most financially rewarding. Sensible and commercial about fees.’

        ‘The team is approachable and hard-working always seeking to deliver the best result possible. Have known the firm for many years and have no hesitation in recommending due to quality of advice provided. Always very collaborative.’

        ‘I have known Sean Moran for many years. He is likeable and approachable. Always gives good sensible advice and is very reactionary. His commercial approach is also an attraction.’

        ‘Strong understanding of the healthcare sector and insolvency.’

        Key clients

        Interpath Advisory

        FRP Advisory Trading

        BDO

        Mazars

        RSM Restructuring UK

        Kroll

        Menzies

        Smith Cooper

        Leonard Curtis

        Begbies Traynor

        CBA Business Solutions Limited

        Yerrill Murphy

        Horsfields Limited

        S P Ford & Co Limited

        Teneo Restructuring Limited

        Springfields Advisory

        Work highlights

        • Advised the directors of Turbine Efficiency Limited and Turbine Efficiency Group Limited in relation to the companies’ financial position and worked with the directors in dealing with an accelerated M&A process for the business.
        • Advised the director of two associated energy suppliers facing financial difficulties following the rise in wholesale energy prices. This involved working with the director and Ofgem in relation to the removal of the suppliers’ statutory licences to operate followed by the appointment of administrators from Menzies.
        • Advised the Administrators of MGHL in relation to the high value disposal of a number of hotels and plots of land with complex real estate and planning issues arising as well as negotiating the settlement of related commercial agreements with promoters and other parties as part of this process.

        Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 2

        ‘Punching well above its weight’, Shakespeare Martineau LLP acts for a wide mix of claimants in professional negligence claims against solicitors, accountants, financial advisors and SIPP operators.  The unit is headed by director Kendal Litherland, a ‘first-class lawyer’. 

        Practice head(s):

        Kendal Litherland

        Testimonials

        ‘Kendal Litherland has most certainly deserved our confidence in them. Their energy and enthusiasm has shown to be far superior to any previous experience with another practice that we have retained in the past.’

        ‘Shakespeare Martineau has a wealth of expertise in professional negligence claims, both acting for claimants and for professional defendants. It provides a first-class level of service to its clients, fights hard, but also keeps a close eye on the need for a commercial resolution where possible. Punches well above its weight.’

        ‘Kendal Litherland is a first-class lawyer and one of the most hard-working and determined litigators in the business. No stone (or page) is left unturned, he’s completely in command of his brief, and he gets the best possible result for his clients. Opponents underestimate him at their peril.’

        ‘The team has a wealth of experience in professional negligence practice, led by solicitors with many years’ experience. They understand the commercial aspects of professional negligence litigation and are tenacious in securing good results for their clients.’

        ‘Kendal Litherland approaches his cases pragmatically and strategically to ensure clients fully understand the approach used and rationale. He is very personable, this is reflected in the interest and care he takes to understand the problem.’

        Real estate > Construction Tier 2

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP offers a full range of legal services to assist clients from the inception to the completion of construction projects with a particular specialism in managing risk in bespoke procurements. Acting under the leadership of Birmingham-based Ruth Phillips, Jayne Meakin heads the Nottingham-based team. Meakin has a focus on advising on bespoke construction procurement documents and negotiating suites of contracts for complex construction projects. Managing director Alex Smith specialises in construction documentation, including bespoke forms of contracts, consultants’ appointments, collateral warranties, performance bonds and parent company guarantees.

        Practice head(s):

        Ruth Philips; Jayne Meakin

        Other key lawyers:

        Alex Smith

        Key clients

        Bishop Grosseteste University

        Graystacks Radmarsh Road Limited

        Infinity Park Derby LLP

        National Grid Energy Transmission Limited

        Pannell House Leicester Limited

        Peter James Homes Limited

        Shoby Properties Limited

        BDW

        Citizen Housing Group Limited

        Everards Brewery Limited

        Farmfoods Limited

        Maber Associates

        Max Barney Developments Limited

        Rainier Developments (Tenby Street) Limited

        Staffordshire University

        Walsall Housing Group

        Wilson Bowden

        Winvic Construction Limited

        Hull College

        Midlands Land Portfolio Limited

        Northern Trust Company Ltd

        The University of West London

        Helen Taylor Thompson Foundation

        Welford Healthcare Ltd

        Alpha Construction Ltd

        Sequoia Living Wantage Limited

        Rotherwood Developments

        PSG Global Limited

        Whitworth Bros Limited

        Wagner Group Limited

        Liverpool John Moores University

        Habib Bank Zurich PLC

        Nottingham University

        One Palace Green Ltd

        Edge PS

        SJC 14 Limited

        Lloyds Bank Plc

        Code Students Ltd

        Drapery Property Northampton Limited

        Real Estate Design & Development Limited

        Liberty Wines Limited

        Parwaiz and Family Company Limited (The Partners of Ratby Surgery)

        Jessops Construction Limited

        Work highlights

        • Advised One Palace Green Limited on a deal value of £100m (with construction costs of £20m) for the redevelopment of residential property in one of the most exclusive locations in Kensington, London.
        • Advised Code Students on the £50m new build development of a 1200 bed student accommodation project in Sheffield.
        • Advised SJC 14 Limited on a forward funded £26m new build student accommodation project in Nottingham.

        Real estate > Planning and environment Tier 2

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP ‘promptly and effectively‘ advises landowners, developers and local planning authorities on all planning-related issues, such s.106 and highway agreements, and including planning prosecutions, injunctions, judicial review and statutory challenges. The team, headed by Simon Stanion, further provides planning due diligence support on corporate and real estate transactions. Paul Wakefield expertly‘ steers clients through ‘all the knotty planning issues accompanying sustainable urban extensions projects‘, and his ‘knowledge of complex Section 106 agreements‘ keeps clients ‘going back to him‘. ‘Very proactive‘ associate Kylie Wesson acts on both contentious and non-contentious planning matters.

        Practice head(s):

        Simon Stanion

        Other key lawyers:

        Paul Wakefield; Kylie Wesson

        Testimonials

        ‘Paul Wakefield: has advised us for many years on all the knotty planning issues accompanying SUE projects. Has steered us expertly throughout.’

        ‘Shakespeare Martineau have provided sound advice promptly and effectively. The Planning Team at Shakespeare Martineau have provided excellent service through transfer of land to negotiating Section 106.’

        ‘Paul Wakefield’s knowledge of complex Section 106 agreements is why we keep going back to him. His negotiating skills are second to none and knows which battles to pick. Paul always makes himself available and uses plain English to explain legal jargon.’

        ‘Their attention to detail is good and communications are excellent.’

        ‘Paul Wakefield is able to pitch his comms at the right level in all correspondence so whether dealing with clients, local councils or other lawyers, it’s always clear what is required.’

        ‘Kylie Wesson runs a great team, and she has excellent communication and is very proactive rather than reactive. Their fees are sensible but competitive.’

        ‘Paul Wakefield: Always available to help, no matter how small the problem.’

        ‘The team communicates internally and responds efficiently and enthusiastically to queries and instructions. Billing is accompanied by full narrative, and is within or close to budget just about every time. Excellent value for money. Above all, without any exception I have come across, Shakespeares are fun to work with.’

        Key clients

        Rainier Developments

        Gallagher Estates Limited / Gallagher Developments Limited

        Court Collaboration Limited

        David Wilson Homes Limited

        Longhurst Group

        BDW Trading limited

        Redrow Homes

        Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust

        North Warwickshire & South Leicestershire College

        Rutland County Council

        Larkfleet Homes

        The Lindhurst Group

        W Westerman Limited

        Midland Heart

        Summix Developments

        Platform Housing

        Citizen Housing

        Walsall Housing Group

        Stonewater

        Bromford Housing Group

        Honeycombe Group

        Kingswood Properties (West Midlands) Limited

        Brackley Property Developments Limited

        Bruker UK:Limited

        Manor Oak Homes Limited

        Skillman Investments LLP

        Venture Properties Group Limited

        Allison Homes

        Peveril Homes

        Parkers of Leicester Limited

        Work highlights

        • Advised GEL on planning matters relating to delivery of 1000 homes and associated infrastructure on land south of Bodicote Way, Banbury, Oxfordshire.
        • Provided planning advice and drafting and completing a S.106 agreement in relation to the development of Birmingham’s second largest building.
        • Advised One Palace Green Limited in relation to the purchase of one a property on one of the most exclusive streets in the country, through carrying out of planning due diligence as part of the acquisition and providing further ongoing planning advice in relation to the impending planning application.

        TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP‘s Ed Wright has over 20 years’ experience advising on the full gamut of IT projects for various suppliers and purchasers of IT services. He also works alongside the commercial team on acquisitions of telecoms businesses. E-commerce, licensing and outsourcing agreements and data protection are other key areas for the team.

        Practice head(s):

        Ed Wright

        Key clients

        Nemaura Medical Inc./Dermal Diagnostics Limited

        Financechain Limited t/a SES

        JTF Marketing Limited

        The Mae Deli Limited t/a Deliciously Ella

        Spirit Health Group Limited

        Skeleton Productions Limited

        Purpose Media Limited

        Mylocummanager UK Limited

        Replay Maintenance Limited

        Walkin Limited t/a WalkUp

        Work highlights

        • Advising Purpose Media on the re-clarification of IP ownership/licensing arrangements arising out of several client portal/website development projects and their applicable contracts.
        • Advised and prepared a suitable cross-border SAAS reseller agreement template and SAAS-related EULA template, with particular focus on the IP provisioning and licence grants in each for The Spirit Health Group.
        • Advising on Numara Medical Inc./Dermal Diagnostics’ proposed new EU and US in-app purchase arrangements, the potentially applicable Apple/Google fees and methods of circumventing such fees.

        Finance > Islamic finance Tier 2

        Led from Birmingham by Mohammed Saqub, Shakespeare Martineau LLP‘s ‘very approachable’ team provides a ‘great customer service’ to a strong and loyal roster of UK and Middle Eastern wholly Sharia-compliant banks, as well as conventional banks with an Islamic window. Although the scope of the offering is broad, a significant proportion of the work relates to commercial and retail real estate mandates, with work ranging from advice on Islamic mortgages to complex commercial and development facilities. As well as transactional work, the firm’s depth of knowledge within the space is also acknowledged by the UK government, which has recently sought guidance as to the impact changes in legislation will have on Islamic finance transactions.

        Practice head(s):

        Mohammed Saqub

        Other key lawyers:

        Andrew Stevens; Nick Sanderson; Afreen Mehdi Cole; Hannah Pickering

        Testimonials

        ‘The team is focused and always on the ball.’

        ‘The team provides great customer service and is very approachable.’

        Key clients

        Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank PJSC

        ADIB UK

        Al Rayan Bank plc

        Gatehouse Bank plc

        Habib Bank AG Zurich (Islamic and conventional)

        Islamic Development Bank

        Masraf Al Rayan

        OFFA

        Qatar Islamic Bank PLC

        UBL

        Nester

        Work highlights

        • Assisted the UK subsidiary of a Swiss bank with setting up an Islamic finance practice.
        • Instructed by a multi-national development bank to assist with the development of bespoke Islamic banking documentation for a non-bank home purchase plan provider.

        Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 2

        The corporate and commercial team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP is based in Milton Keynes with strength in the information technology, professional services and retail sectors. The firm has also significantly strengthened it’s offering in the healthcare, education and charity industries with the arrival of Jordan Glackin from EMW Law LLP. Mark Thompson heads the practice with expertise in M&A, commercial contracts and corporate finance.

        Practice head(s):

        Mark Thompson

        Other key lawyers:

        Jordan Glackin

        Testimonials

        ‘Consistency in personal relationships at senior level.’

        ‘Mark Thompson has great breadth of corporate and capital market knowledge.’

        ‘I principally deal with Mark Thompson. He has a very good all round knowledge and is very practical in dealing within the M&A field.’

        ‘Allawee Albaghdadi is a standout partner in the sector – dedicated to performing to a deal timetable. Allawee sees the bigger picture on a transaction and has an instinctive ability to foresee how matters will unfold and work that to a client’s advantage.’

        Key clients

        Focus Hotels Management Limited

        AC Plc

        Lousada Plc

        Fired Earth Limited

        Work highlights

        • Acted for Fired Earth Holdings Limited in connection with the acquisition of Fired Earth Limited from Aga Rangemaster Group Plc.
        • Acted for the shareholders of Suretrans Limited in relation to the disposal of the entire issued share capital of the company to Banyan Supply Chains Solutions Limited.
        • Acted for the shareholders of 80s Casual Classics Limited in relation to the sale of the entire issued share capital to J D Sports Fashion Plc.

        Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Birmingham Tier 3

        Readily available and extremely knowledgable‘, Shakespeare Martineau LLP is well-versed in an array of corporate and commercial matters, possessing key expertise in tax-related investments and cross-border deals. Practice chair Keith Spedding handles a number of public and private company M&A deals for businesses operating in a number of sectors, ranging from life sciences to cybersecurity. Kavita Patel, who heads up the investment funds desk, is widely praised for her capabilities in private equity and corporate finance deals. Jody Webb, who joined the practice from Freeths LLP in November 2021, is highly experienced in UK mid-market transactions.

        Practice head(s):

        Keith Spedding

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘They are readily available and extremely knowledgable in their field which allows for an impeccable service.’

        ‘Keith Spedding’s knowledge of capital markets, corporate governance and M&A is inimitable. His attention to detail and management throughout each transaction allows for a consistently smooth process. We would not hesitate to recommend his services to our clients.’

        ‘Jennie Davis approaches each transaction with scrupulous attention to detail which allows for a consistently smooth and diligent process. We would not hesitate to recommend her services to our clients.’

        ‘Highly professional, knowledgeable and able to deliver within extremely tight deadlines and within set budgets. Covering complex issues within corporate finance and speciality technology areas with exceptional skill sets in liaising with the FCA and other corporate finance partners.’

        ‘Fantastic support and always delivering.’

        ‘Kavita Patel’s knowledge of our business, combined with her considerable experience and strong project management skills, make her stand out.’

        Key clients

        Foresight Group LLP

        Unicorn AIM VCT Plc

        Blackfinch Investments

        Avingtrans Plc

        Cizzle Biotechnology PLC

        Solid State PLC

        One Heritage Group PLC

        Socotec UK Limited

        Work highlights

        • Acting for Bermele plc on its acquisition of East Imperial Limited and readmission to the Standard segment of the Official List and readmission to trading on the London Stock Exchange.
        • Acting for Avingtrans PLC on its sale of Peter Brotherhood Limited for an enterprise value of £35m.
        • Acting for Foresight Group LLP (Foresight) on the restructuring and relaunch of its Foresight Inheritance Tax Fund.

        Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in the West Midlands Tier 3

        Fielding ‘experienced, pragmatic, and hands-on partners’  who are well-versed in the full scope of corporate and commercial matters, Shakespeare Martineau LLP is geared to handle a range of both transactional and non-transactional instructions. Department head Andrew Smith goes above and beyond‘ on corporate deals and financings, working with higher education institutes, manufacturers, and engineers. Rachel Gwynne specialises in corporate, governance, regulatory, and contractual advice for charities and other non-profits. All named lawyers are based in Stratford-upon-Avon.

        Practice head(s):

        Andrew Smith

        Testimonials

        ‘Patient and sensitive to the particular needs of the group I represent.’

        ‘React promptly to urgent matters with good knowledge and experience.’

        ‘Andrew Smith carries considerable knowledge and can convey this well to clients who are not experienced in legal matters.’

        ‘The support and expertise of Andrew Smith was second to none!’

        ‘Very experienced, pragmatic and hands-on partners.’

        ‘Very helpful and supportive, always available when you need them, a helpful and practical approach.’

        ‘Andrew Smith is always available when needed, goes above and beyond, and always delivers on time.’

        Key clients

        Whitworth Bros

        Viessmann Investment GmbH

        Phoenix Brickwork UK

        UK Battery Industrialisation Centre

        Idea Catalyst Partners LLP

        The Extracare Charitable Trust

        Walsall Housing Group

        O’Brien Contractors

        Orbit Group

        HG International

        Socotec UK

        Work highlights

        • Acting for Viessmann on its acquisition of Pacifica Home Services.
        • Acting for HG International on its acquisition of Ecozone Ltd.
        • Acting for Socotec UK on its acquisition of Tor Drilling.

        Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant Tier 3

        At Shakespeare Martineau LLP, Ravinder Johal  leads the department that is well-placed to advise on a variety of high-value catastrophic injury claims from defending employer and motor liability claims to property and employer liability claims. Johal represents various insurers, companies, public sector organisations and self-insureds. Tony Hannington  deals with numerous accident claims ranging from relatively low value industrial disease claims to defending catastrophic injury claims arising from motor, employers and liability insurance policies.

        Practice head(s):

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘The team is very friendly and happy assist in any way it can. All correspondence and communications are clear and professional. The lawyers come across as really wanting to do everything that they can for you in achieving the best outcome possible. Nothing is too much for them. The advice we get is always very detailed and explained in a way which can easily be understood’.

        Ravinder Johal is very thorough in his work and will investigate and cover off every single issue that he identifies. He works very proactively and will respond to you very quickly. He is very detailed in his advice and will back this up with any relevant evidence. He can be trusted to protect our interests without us having to worry about anything. He is innovative in his approach to progressing claims’.

        Ravinder and his team can be relied upon to provide in depth advice and support on all cases. He is reliable and efficient and can be depended upon to provide the level of assistance required on all cases. Communication is key to many of the cases we work on and Ravinder is always approachable and makes sure he is available for any support at all times. It is always a pleasure to work with Ravinder’.

        Shakespeare Martineau has a wealth of knowledge in respect of defendant personal injury claims. I have dealt with the team there for many years and have faith in its ability to provide an excellent service in this area‘.

        ‘I have worked with Ravinder Johal for many years. He is very approachable and has extensive knowledge of the personal injury arena‘.

        ‘A very proactive team always looking for new ways to move cases forward. Approachable and knowledgeable on all aspects of personal injury cases’.

        ‘Ravinder Johal is very approachable and hands on with the cases he has. He constantly looks for ways to be proactive, is well organised and very thorough and is excellent‘.

        ‘The lawyers make me feel part of their team and they feel part of my team. It is a partnership that achieves the right result’.

        Key clients

        DHL

        Europcar

        Sixt

        Amlin Insurance

        Zurich Insurance

        Sainsbury’s

        Keir Group

        Morrison Utility Services

        Hawkwell Underwriting

        North West Ambulance Service

        QBE Insurance

        NEC Group

        Sedgwick International Limited

        Aviva Insurance

        Work highlights

        •    

        Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 3

        The key contact for the West Midlands team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP is Alistair Spencer , an associate and ACTAPS member. Andrew Wilkinson is the national head of the team that frequently advises on a whole host of complex issues from will disputes about testamentary capacity to rectification claims and trust disputes. The practice is skilled at handling professional negligence claims in relation to wills drafting and has a particular focus on large scale agricultural inheritance disputes, as well as proprietary estoppel claims.

        Practice head(s):

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘Knowledgeable and quick to respond. Reassuring, easy to approach and professional’.

        ‘Always available, up to speed on the case‘.

        ‘One of the best teams in the West Midlands. Alistair Spencer is an associate solicitor with an obvious commitment to the development of his specialist practice. He puts in considerable effort to cement his knowledge of the law (such as what can be gleaned from new decisions), and to keep up to speed with it. By this and other steps, he shows Sh Ma to provide a strong and well informed offering in the discrete discipline of contentious probate‘.

        ‘Approachable, prompt, patient‘.

        ‘It feels like you’re being treated on a personal individual level, I felt looked after by each person I have spoken to and dealt with. The knowledge & expertise is of a far greater standard’.

        Work highlights

        • Acts for a farmer in a complex and bitterly fought will challenge and proprietary estoppel case.

        Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in the West Midlands Tier 3

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP’s sizeable real estate practice is well-versed in all manner of property investment and development matters, and is noted for its burgeoning expertise in Islamic finance-driven transactions. Regional head Joanna Deffley works between the firm’s Birmingham, Stratford, and Solihull offices, handling major residential developments and strategic land acquisitions. In Stratford-upon-Avon, Caroline Irvine ‘s diverse expertise sees her working with landlords and tenants on leases and commercial property transactions, while legal director Fiona Martin is noted for her expertise in private landowner-driven matters. Kevin Joynes focuses chiefly on residential development work. All named lawyers are based in Solihull unless stated otherwise.

        Practice head(s):

        Joanna Deffley

        Other key lawyers:

        Caroline Irvine; Fiona Martin; Kevin Joynes

        Testimonials

        ‘The approach taken by both partners and associates to deliver a complete service tailored to our (sometimes challenging) way of working is excellent. They feel part of the same company which makes for a great working relationship.’

        ‘Caroline Irvine in particular has been just great, and I would recommend the firm to anyone.’

        ‘Joanna Deffley is always fully transparent when any issues arise, and explains positives and negatives around any difficult clauses.’

         

         

        Key clients

        Wiltshire College & University

        Bishops Itchington Parish Council

        DKS55 Limited

        Persona Property Limited

        Fuelsoft Limited

        Manmeet Singh

        Christopher Heard

        Douglas Thrower

        Open Hands Trust (Leicester)

        James Scott

        National Grid

        Wales & West Utilities

        Anglian Water

        Mongoose Limited

        Minton Group

        Hellman Worldwide Logistics

        Werner UK Sales & Distribution

        Cox and Jenks Families

        Richborough Estates

        Work highlights

        • Acting for L&Q Estates on delivery of its scheme at Whitehouse, Milton Keynes.
        • Acted for Spitfire Homes and IM Properties Plc on Spitfire’s acquisition of a 50 hectare mixed-use development site at Daventry.
        • Acting for Keon Homes on the acquisition of a development site at Great Barr, Birmingham – conditional on planning.

        Real estate > Construction Tier 3

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP is regularly instructed by a range of renowned corporates, lenders, and contractors, who turn to the team for its capabilities in all manner of contentious and non-contentious issues. Practice head Ruth Phillips possesses far-reaching expertise, encompassing building contracts, collateral warranties, performance bonds, and parent company guarantees. The ‘stand-out’ Kate Onions draws considerable praise from clients for her capabilities in big-ticket construction disputes, including multi-million pound defect claims. Ian Griffiths , who spearheads the construction team’s energy and utilities offering, advises on infrastructure projects in the nuclear, solar, wind, and biofuel sectors. Associate Laura Taylor balances both contentious and non-contentious instructions, including RP-led transactions and construction insolvency proceedings. All named lawyers are based in Birmingham.  

        Practice head(s):

        Ruth Phillips

        Other key lawyers:

        Kate Onions; Ian Griffiths; Laura Taylor

        Testimonials

        ‘Shakespeare Martineau provides a team that works perfectly together. Each member of the team knows their remit and the partner responsible for co-ordination and overall responsibility is fully aware of all the tasks being undertaken and completed.’

        ‘High quality but good value regional team. They have the ability to really listen and understand our mix of drivers (financial, reputational, client relationships, insurance, strategic etc.) and adapt their legal advice and approach to our needs.’

        ‘Kate Onions remains a stand-out partner for me. She balance the legal support with budget control and does the whole thing with great relationships along the way. That ability to be approachable with me yet still strong and tough in negotiations is vital.’

        ‘Kate Onions is strategically strong and outcome-focused.’

        ‘Very commercially aware and solutions-oriented, focused on project delivery’

        ‘Strong advocate for the organisation, works well with other project specialists’

        Key clients

        6 Balfour Place Limited

        Bishop Grosseteste University

        Graystacks Radmarsh Road Limited

        Infinity Park Derby LLP

        National Grid Energy Transmission Limited

        Pannell House Leicester Limited

        Peter James Homes Limited

        Shoby Properties Limited

        BDW

        Citizen Housing Group Limited

        Everards Brewery Limited

        Farmfoods Limited

        KBC Developments LLP

        Maber Associates

        Max Barney Developments Limited

        Rainier Developments (Tenby Street) Limited

        Staffordshire University

        Walsall Housing Group

        Wilson Bowden

        Winvic Construction Limited

        Hull College

        Midlands Land Portfolio Limited

        Northern Trust Company Ltd

        The University of West London

        Helen Taylor Thompson Foundation

        Welford Healthcare Ltd

        Alpha Construction Ltd

        Sequoia Living Wantage Limited

        Rotherwood Developments

        PSG Global Limited

        Whitworth Bros Limited

        Wagner Group Limited

        Liverpool John Moores University

        Habib Bank Zurich PLC

        FRP Advisory

        DWJ Harkin Limited

        Buckinghamshire Council

        Jessops Construction Limited

        Nottingham University

        Istituto Marangoni School of Fashion

        Purple Platypus Property Ltd

        Honeycomb Group Limited

        Midland Heart Limited

        Sancus Lending (UK) Limited

        SPF Bridging Ltd

        Lloyds Bank Plc

        Punjab National Bank (International) Limited

        Platform Housing Limited

        Platform New Homes Limited

        Reynaers Aluminium Limited

        Castledine Construction Limited

        University of Exeter

        S&S Render Solutions Ltd

        Dana Spicer Europe Limited

        Kroll Advisory Ltd

        Clarke Bank (Fire Engineering Limited)

        FSL Projects Limited

        Stotto 1 Limited

        Cornovii Developments Limited

        Cottsway Housing Association Limited

        One Heritage Churchgate Limited

        Premier Refurbishment LLP

        Gallagher Estates Limited

        Trustees of the Wellington Pension Fund

        AC1 Construction Limited

        Work highlights

        • Advised Citizen Housing Group Limited on the first phase of its five-year investment plan, which includes £500m to be spent on the construction of 500 homes built for private sale and 2,800 affordable homes by 2024.
        • Advising Staffordshire University on the construction of its flagship £40m Catalyst Building, an 8,800 square metre, four storey building incorporating social learning areas, food court and flexible event space.
        • Continuing to advise The Max Barney Group on the construction aspects of its expanding property portfolio, including the redevelopment of a central London property into mixed use commercial/office/residential space.

        Real estate > Planning Tier 3

        Lauded by clients for its ‘national-level quality' combined with 'depth at a regional level‘, Shakespeare Martineau LLP handles a broad mix of residential, commercial, and infrastructure planning mandates for a diverse roster of clients. The ‘brilliant’ Simon Stanion is a key presence in the Midlands, working between the firm’s Birmingham, Nottingham, and Leicester offices on high-stakes contentious development matters. Anna Cartledge, who joined the practice from Shoosmiths LLP in April 2021, regularly advises on residential-led regeneration schemes, and is noted for her niche expertise in heritage issues. All named lawyers are based in Birmingham unless stated otherwise.

        Practice head(s):

        Simon Stanion

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘Shakespeare Martineau are a well-established, very good firm. They are helpful and efficient and work hard to help the client achieve their desired outcome.’

        ‘I work with Simon Stanion, who is a brilliant lawyer. He is very experienced with a detailed understanding of planning and environmental issues. He is a pleasure to work with and has an excellent reputation in the field. I would always trust his view on the way forward with a case.’

        ‘National level quality and depth found at a regional level.’

        ‘Simon Stanion is highly experienced, with an outstanding expertise in the field. Simon exhibits both strong practical awareness and great commercial sense. Calm and measured but will fight like a tiger if necessary.

        ‘Simon Stanion is one of the smartest and most experienced planning lawyers around.’

        ‘Very good local knowledge, whilst having the resources of a top shelf law firm’

        ‘Simon Stanion, now supported by Anna Cartlidge, is the core to the West Midlands planning team who provides first-hand advice on all planning matters.’

        ‘Simon Stanion is an excellent, commercially focussed, planning lawyer who carefully analyses his client’s needs and gets the very best for them, whether through negotiation or judicious use of appeals or litigation.’

        Key clients

        Gallagher Ventures Ltd

        Court Eastside Birmingham Limited

        Cordia Blackswan Property Limited

        Rainier Developments Limited

        Gallagher Developments Limited

        Matthew Atton

        Kendrick Homes Limited

        Everards Brewery Ltd

        Ullesthorpe Driving Range Ltd

        Trustees of E R Brook

        Barratt West Midlands Limited

        Aneta Wasik

        Sue Tyler

        Lakes and Greens Ltd

        BDW

        Spitfire Bespoke Homes Limited

        Gallagher Developments Ltd

        South Staffordshire Water PLC

        Orbit Housing Association

        Work highlights

        • Representing Gallagher Ventures Limited in a successful Section 288 High Court Challenge against a decision of the Secretary of State’s Inspector to dismiss an appeal against the refusal of a Certificate of Lawful Proposed Use for the implementation of planning permission for a retirement village in Torquay.
        • Advising Everards Brewery Limited on correct interpretation of Development Plan policies relevant to the development of Phase 2 of a mixed use development scheme including relocation of brewery, leisure, office and hotel development.
        • Representing Court Eastside Birmingham Limited in the successful conclusion to a case commenced in 2020 which initially resulted in the quashing of a planning permission for a 51 storey private rented apartment scheme in central Birmingham, followed by the grant of planning permission on redetermination by the Council, which was not subsequently challenged.

        Real estate > Social housing Tier 3

        Working collaboratively across multiple sites throughout the region, Shakespeare Martineau LLP handles a wide range of projects and housing management matters for a number of registered providers, housing associations, and developers. The team is headed up by Rachel Gwynne , who is noted for her expertise in social housing regulation and governance. Louise Drew runs the building communities desk, where she focuses on sales and asset management issues – most notably for clients in the care and later living sectors. Emma Gamble helms the social housing sales team, where she is responsible for the ongoing delivery of volume transactions within the space. Paula Evans is recommended for her capabilities in major site acquisitions. All named lawyers are based in Stratford-upon-Avon.

        Practice head(s):

        Rachel Gwynne; Louise Drew

        Other key lawyers:

        Emma Gamble; Paula Evans

        Testimonials

        ‘Very knowledgeable of the industry. Always willing to assist with enquiries and provide guidance and advice. Service is professional, smooth and consistent. Very friendly team with excellent levels of service to lease extension requests and changes to shared ownership legislation.’

        ‘I trust and respect them. They will always be my go to for professional advice as they do so in a timely and efficient manner.’

        Key clients

        Citizen

        Stonewater Group

        Wythenshawe Community Housing Group

        Walsall Housing Group

        Honeycomb Group

        Platform Housing Limited

        Nottingham Community Housing Association

        Longhurst Group

        Cottsway Housing Group

        Orbit Group

        Work highlights

        • Advised Walsall Housing Group on their first MMC (Modern Method of Construction) transaction involving the purchase of the site and the construction of 43 homes.
        • Assisting Honeycomb Group with the sale and leaseback of multiple multi-tenanted properties adjoining a hospital site to the NHS Trust owning the hospital.

        Insurance > Personal injury: claimant Tier 3

        The personal injury offering at Shakespeare Martineau LLP, trading under the Lime Solicitors name, has grown significantly in recent years with its acquisition of the Hudgell Solicitors‘ team and is, as of May 2021, led by partner and former personal injury lead at Moore Barlow, ‘amazing individual’ Martin Usher. The team’s workload is focused in part towards abuse work, which can involve sexual abuse against children or workplace abuse and can often be brought in the form of group actions - this area is Malcolm Johnson‘s specialty; he is presently acting for claimants allegedly wronged during Windrush. The team has acted for claimants involved in other such high profile alleged abuse cases against, among other, religious systems, the UK schooling system and established employers. In addition, the team works on serious injury claims, with Kent Pattinson standing out in this area.

        Practice head(s):

        Martin Usher

        Other key lawyers:

        Testimonials

        ‘Martin Usher is a very reliable personal injury solicitor.’

        ‘The personal injury team at Lime is well established. It mostly represents the interests of claimants, and undertakes high-complexity and high-value cases.’

        ‘The experience they offer is unparalleled.’

        ‘Kent Pattinson has such experience in dealing with the highest value claims. He is brilliant with clients and knows exactly what he is doing.’

        ‘Martin Usher was totally amazing throughout my case. He offered regular support and was always there to answer my questions. Martin provided me with outstanding legal advice as well as advice on my rehabilitation. He was and is an amazing individual.’

        ‘The team is pro-active and takes the initiative well in cases.’

        ‘Kent Pattinson is hugely experienced and has outstanding client management skills in often very difficult situations. He knows how to collate the evidence efficiently in cases.’

        Work highlights

        • Represented around 165 people in a group action against two private schools in London.
        • Representing 14 claimants bringing claims under the Windrush Compensation Scheme.
        • Acted for a claimant who suffered a spinal cord injury resulting in complete paraplegia at a young age in a road traffic accident, and secured interim payments of over £2m to purchase and adapt accommodation and to provide for ongoing equipment, therapy and care, before agreeing a final settlement of £12m.

        Private client > Family: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 3

        Shakespeare Martineau LLP‘s family team provides both public and private law advice and representation. The firm also offers a range of alternative dispute resolution services with access to mediators, arbitration and private dispute resolution hearings. Jane Charlton heads the practice with expertise in financial cases involving property portfolios and pre and post nuptial agreements.

        Practice head(s):

        Jane Charlton

        Testimonials

        ‘I received a very personalised and professional support and advice from the team.’

        ‘Jane Charlton, Legal Director, was not only pragmatic throughout my divorce proceedings process but she acted with total compassion which I greatly appreciated.’

        ‘Wonderful customer relations, going the extra mile to alleviate anxieties and concerns whilst breaking down the legal jargon to become fully understandable.’

        ‘Liaising between legal departments to ensure that both processes of my requirements were linear and neither were held up by either department ensuring the best possible outcome for their client.’

        ‘Jane was very professional, thorough, knowledgeable and sensitive in all aspects of the legal process I went through, fully contactable and always ensured that I understood all options available before reaching a decision that was most beneficial to myself. I wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to Jane should I need further assistance.’

        ‘I have only dealt with Jane Charlton, but she has been amazing. Jane has always been very respectful of how I wished to proceed, she has answered all my questions clearly and I’ve always felt listened to by her. It made a world of difference to work with her, compared to the previous firm.’

        ‘The firm has a reputation as a strong team.’

        ‘Jane Charlton is an excellent solicitor. She has a quiet strength and a fierce intelligence. She is settlement focused but firm. Her attention to detail is second to none.’

        Crime, fraud and licensing > Licensing Tier 3

        GL Law, which recently merged with Shakespeare Martineau LLP, acts for restaurants, cafes, hotels and bars in licensing matters, advising them on applications for new licenses as well as on variations and transfers. Melissa Toney leads the team, and has recently been active in advising clients on licensing changes related to COVID restrictions as well as the reopening of hospitality.

        Practice head(s):

        Melissa Toney

        Testimonials

        ‘There is a real personal quality to Melissa Toney’s service. She is proactive in identifying ways she can help with her licensing expertise and goes the extra mile to help provide networks of people to help with other areas of our business.’

        ‘Very responsive team and will assist with a wide range of matters.’

        ‘The quality of service is what sets them apart, the personal touch and deep understanding of our needs. We feel like we work collaboratively with Melissa Toney, where both parties work together to establish and deliver on our specific needs.’

        ‘Melissa Toney is extremely responsive and a pleasure to work with.’

        ‘Knowledgeable and always on hand for problems, big or small.’

        ‘This practice has built a strong relationship with the independent venues of Bristol to provide a level of trust in their understanding of local licencing that gives operators an instant advantage when it comes to submitting or challenging licencing applications.’

        ‘A very personal service, they understand you as an operator.’

        Key clients

        Sir Richard Sutton Ltd – Ganesta Georgian Holdings Ltd

        Accor UK Business and Leisure Hotels Limited and Accor UK Economy Hotels Ltd

        Harvey Commercial (Holdings) Ltd

        The Salt Rooms Ltd

        The Bristol Centre for the Advancement of Architecture Ltd

        The BlackRock Restaurant Group

        Central Swindon South Parish Council

        Fat Pig Ltd

        Bosco Bristol Ltd

        Namak Bristol Ltd

        Work highlights

        • Advised Central Swindon South Parish Council on the application process for a premise license for the Town Gardens.
        • Advised the Bristol Centre for the Advancement of Architecture on applying for a license for a cafe bar.
        • Advised a client on the transfer of a license following the licenseholder’s sudden death.

        Private client > Family Tier 3

        The team at Bristol's GL Law, which recently merged with Shakespeare Martineau LLP, is noted for its in-depth knowledge and expertise in divorce and separation cases concerning high net worth individuals. The practice is led by James Myatt, an expert in matrimonial finance.

        Practice head(s):

        James Myatt

        Other key lawyers:

        Rachel Pritchard

        Testimonials

        ‘James Myatt has been one of Bristol’s best known matrimonial practitioners for years.’

        ‘The firm has a long established client base, good breadth and resourcing and is in a niche in the market which is clever- a smart, prestigious firm but at reasonable cost.’

        ‘They are always ready to adapt and innovate.’

        ‘James Myatt is an innovative but practical thinker about a case.’

        ‘James Myatt has a wealth of knowledge in his field with a particular expertise in HNW financial matters.’

        ‘James Myatt is so knowledgeable the client will also get detailed advice on their circumstances backed up with case law that is reported and by James’ own experience during his 35 year career.’

        ‘James Myatt has an incredible knowledge of the law and process, his focus is always on trying to settle – but when it’s required he is both willing and able to litigate.’

        ‘James Myatt’s knowledge and overview is perhaps second to none. Tactically he is superb.’

        Private client > Family: elsewhere in the West Midlands Tier 4

        Helen Bowns at Shakespeare Martineau LLP is based in the Stratford-upon-Avon office and regularly helps clients with all aspects of relationship breakdown. Clients include business owners, farmers, professionals and those with inherited wealth. In Solihull, Dipika Mistry specialises in divorce, financial remedy and children work.

        Practice head(s):

        Testimonials

        ‘A full service firm, offering excellent matrimonial finance work. The team has great expertise in the more complicated areas of family law – trusts, companies and farming. Helen Bowns heads up the team. She is super bright and great to work with‘.

        A very high quality firm with good staff who are fully able to do the job effectively and efficiently. Helen Bowns is highly effective whilst also ensuring that the work is completed in an entirely non-aggressive manner‘.

        ‘Shakespeare Martineau has been nothing but professional and precise. They understand all situations and concerns their clients have and help them to understand the process and guide them through step by step. Helen Bowns  has been exceptional and very knowledgeable. Her calm manner has allowed her clients to follow and proceed with the same calm manner. She gives great guidance and support throughout the process and is available when needed so her clients feel at ease. Her personal skills are second to none’.

         

        Work highlights

          Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham Tier 4

          Shakespeare Martineau LLP is rated by clients for its capabilities in the full scope of commercial property matters, ranging from development site and land parcel acquisitions to asset disposals, promotions, and collaboration agreements. Practice chair Adrian Bland is a key contact for a number of regional and national players in the real estate investment and regeneration space. Debbie Irwin is a highly experienced residential development specialist who works with a number of national and regional house-builders on strategic land acquisitions and consortium developments. Andrew Mellor ‘s diverse development expertise encompasses industrial and logistics schemes, city centre regeneration projects, and student accommodation sites. James Gooch is praised by clients for his ‘depth of knowledge and ability to think outside the box‘ in development transactions. Clive Read , who joined the practice from an in-house role in May 2021, is widely regarded for his extensive experience in the higher education sector.

          Practice head(s):

          Adrian Bland

          Other key lawyers:

          Debbie Irwin; Andrew Mellor; James Gooch; Clive Read

          Testimonials

          ‘Knowledgable, diligent, quick to react and, importantly, have a keen understanding of the commercial reality and how it relates to legal transactions.’

          ‘James Gooch offers a consistently high, all-round level of service. In addition to a thorough base of legal knowledge, his commercial awareness and understanding of the priorities of our business are key to ensuring transactions are routinely completed in an efficient and satisfactory manner. Regular, clear and concise communication is also a major factor in the high level of service provided.’

          ‘They are a large regional firm that are able to offer advice on all aspects of our work. They are flexible and readily available. They compare favourably with others we come across in the same sector.’

          ‘We instruct James Gooch on numerous matters. His depth of knowledge and ability to think outside the box is greatly appreciated.’

           

          Key clients

          Barratt Homes Eastern Counties

          Barratt Homes Northampton

          Barratt Homes West Midlands

          Barratt Homes – East Midlands

          Barratt Homes – Cambridgeshire

          David Wilson South Midlands

          Deeside Regeneration Limited

          Farmfoods

          Gallagher Developments

          Hillwood Group

          Jessup Construction

          Kendrick Homes

          L&Q Estates

          Opus Land

          Partner Construction Limited

          Trebor Developments LLP

          Vision Express

          Real Estate Investor Plc

          Northern Trust Company Limited

          Lovell Partnerships

          Work highlights

          • Acting for Plc promoter in site assembly and sale worth in excess £500m.
          • Acting for Northern Trust on the purchase of 71 unit industrial and office portfolio across 7 estates, worth £33m in aggregate.
          • Advising on the development of a nuclear and manufacturing research centre, produced via a joint venture between Derby City Council, University of Derby and Sheffield University.

          Insurance > Clinical negligence: claimant Tier 4

          The clinical negligence team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP, which operates under the business name of Lime Solicitors, is led by the ‘hugely experienced’ Neil Clayton. The team’s caseload involves brain, spinal and complex birth injury cases, oftentimes where negligence during birth has led to the claimant developing cerebral palsy – which is Sharon Lam‘s particular area of expertise – or led to psychiatric harm being caused to the mother. In addition, the team has experience in restorative dentistry cases, diabetes care negligence and complex wrongful birth cases. Victoria Gofton and Josie Robinson are acting on a range of high-value cases, and are likewise recommended.

          Practice head(s):

          Neil Clayton; Robert Rose

          Other key lawyers:

          Josie Robinson; Nichola Fahey

          Testimonials

          ‘The Lime team is a close-knit set of highly intelligent and dedicated lawyers, who have built up a body of expertise at all levels. The senior members are very supportive of the juniors and this ensures the team’s specialism grows organically. There is a wide range of diversity and the zeitgeist of the team is to support and maintain the primacy of the clients’ interests and welfare in order to maximise the settlements in their favour.’

          ‘Robert Rose has built up a very successful team. Robert is the epitome of quiet, reassuring confidence and expertise, whose combined specialist knowledge and business acumen has built up a formidable clinical negligence team. Neil Clayton is a clinical negligence specialist who competes at the highest level. He undertakes complex and high-value litigation with an expertise that belies his years. He is tactically astute and has an established reputation.’

          ‘Josie Robinson shines. I trust her judgement 100%.’

          ‘Nicola Fahey is very hard working, conscientious and very bright. She masters her cases and prepares them immaculately. Neil Clayton really battles for his clients, takes on very difficult cases and often succeeds. He is a very good tactician and negotiator. Robert Rose has wonderful judgment and experience and knows how to win cases. He is very approachable and is a fantastic leader.’

          ‘There couldn’t be a better person at the helm than Neil Clayton.’

          ‘They are a highly talented and personable team who work hard to build strong relationships with clients. There is real breadth in their talent, ranging from the most junior members to the partners.’

          ‘The level of detail, clarity of thought and well-rounded strategic thinking of many individuals makes them really stand out.’

          ‘Neil Clayton is a hugely experienced and calm litigator. He manages to see past the peripheral and focus upon the heart of every case on his shelves.’

          Projects, energy and natural resources > Power (including electricity, nuclear and renewables) Tier 4

          Shakespeare Martineau LLP is increasingly involved in the renewable transport and heat sectors acting for energy networks and operators of electricity connectors. The firm is experienced in the sustainable transport field with a focus on EVs in addition to storage, renewable heat and energy retail projects. Andrew Whitehead leads the team with experience in advising clients in the utilities sector. Mark Bartholomew‘s specialism relates to electricity interconnectors while Sushma Maharaj advises on the full range of services arrangements including concession agreements, connection agreements and supply contracts.

          Practice head(s):

          Andrew Whitehead

          Other key lawyers:

          Testimonials

          ‘Shakespeare Martineau has a good understanding of the energy business, in particular electricity interconnectors. The team continually keeps up to date with the developments in this area to provide excellent service to our businesses.’

          Key clients

          National Grid

          Grain LNG

          Cadent Gas Limited

          Npower Limited

          Last Mile Infrastructure Group

          Statera Energy Limited

          Octopus Energy Limited

          Compleo Charging Solutions UK Limited

          Severn Trent Green Power

          Shell Energy Retail Limited

          Highway Stops Retail Limited

          British Independent Utilities

          BritNed Development Limited

          Marble Power Limited

          FPC Electric Land Limited

          Electricity North West Limited

          Forsa Energy Gas Holdings Ltd

          Tetronics Technology

          Certas Energy

          Coventry and Solihull Waste

          South Staffordshire Water plc

          Anglian Water

          SUNEL UK

          Whitetower Energy

          rePLANET

          Ripple Energy

          Birmingham University

          FW Thorpe Plc

          Macquarie Bank

          Utilita Group

          Bryt Energy

          Work highlights

          • Supported National Grid ESO in the development of Network Option Assessment (NOA) Pathfinders.

          Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Bristol Tier 4

          GL Law, which recently merged with Shakespeare Martineau LLP, has a strong track record in advising SMEs on corporate transactions, including acquisitions, disposals and management buyouts. The practice, led by Paul Hardman, is also instructed on restructurings. Hardman focuses on mandates pertaining to the precision manufacturing, healthcare, technology and retail sectors.

          Practice head(s):

          Paul Hardman

          Other key lawyers:

          Bridget Juckes

          Key clients

          CRS Building Supplies

          The Games Room

          Transvault Software

          SWNS Media Group

          Wright Minimix

          The Istoria Group

          Morgan Capital

          Bath & West Finance

          Apex Pumps

          Debbie Fortune

          Ash (Care Homes)

          Brian Eatwell

          Work highlights

          • Assisted RV Smith Leisure ltd t/a The Games Room to acquire the remaining, majority, stake in the iconic juke box brand, Rock-Ola. This involved a series of buy backs in the US and Cayman Islands together with a discharge of loans and other liabilities as part of a cross-border transaction co-ordinated in the UK.
          • Acted for the owners of local accountancy practice, Copson Grandfield on the sale to TC Group.
          • Acted for the majority shareholders of CRS Building Supplies on its sale to Grant & Stone (backed by Cairngorm Private Equity).

          Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 4

          GL Law, which recently merged with Shakespeare Martineau LLP, advises clients on matters from high-net-worth estate planning and trusts and estate administration, to Court of Protection work and elderly and vulnerable client service work. Heledd Wyn leads the team.

          Practice head(s):

          Heledd Wyn

          Other key lawyers:

          Ben Coulson

          Testimonials

          ‘Heledd Wyn is bright, innovative and cares deeply, not just about her clients but the wider issues of long term care.’

          ‘The team is very active in the local market, highlighting areas of concern for private client financial planning and a particular strength is in elderly care and estate planning.’

          ‘Heledd Wynn is very approachable and inspires confidence in her clients and colleagues alike. She campaigns to highlight concerns among practitioners around future financial planning.’

          ‘Strong private client team, especially in regards to elderly care and financial planning. The team is super friendly and accessible.’

          ‘Heledd Wyn is a smart lawyer with in depth knowledge of her field. She is friendly and approachable.’

          ‘An extremely professional, friendly and helpful team.’

          ‘An excellent specialist team very well respected in the wider later life field.’

          ‘Expertise, great service, very approachable, reliable, and a good team.’

          Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant

          At Shakespeare Martineau LLP, practice head Tony Hannington   ‘combines decades of experience with first-rate client care skills’. Hannington regularly deals with various catastrophic injury and fatal accidents claims.

          Real estate > Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx

          Shakespeare Martineau LLP has recently made a series of eye-catching real estate hires for its Milton Keynes office, including David Wells, who joined from HCR Hewitsons, and a team of former EMW Law LLP lawyers, including Allawee Albaghdadi, who was recently promoted to lead the Milton Keynes base.

          Corporate and commercial > Venture capital Tier 6

          Combining transactional, regulatory and tax expertise, Shakespeare Martineau LLP‘s Kavita Patel is a popular choice among funds clients both in relation to structuring work and on subsequent downstream investments (including those in the VCT space). Nottingham-based partner Duncan James has an investee-side focus that includes a considerable amount of work for family-run companies.

          Practice head(s):

          Duncan James; Kavita Patel

          Other key lawyers:

          Roger Harcourt; Catherine Moss; Oliver Gutman; Jody Webb; Peter Mayhew

          Testimonials

          ‘Their deep experience, access to partners specialising in other areas and project management skills mean transactions are completed efficiently and issues identified before they become problems.’

          ‘Kavita Patel has considerable experience and strong project management and organisational skills.’

          ‘Oliver Gutman provides good, clear advice on tax matters.’

          ‘Its a strong team – diligent, care about your priorities and timescales and also very responsive which for us is probably most important.’

          ‘Peter Mayhew is always happy to pick up the phone when we are doing a deal.’

          Key clients

          Foresight Group LLP

          Octopus Investments Limited

          Blackfinch Investments Limited

          Tympa Health Technologies Limited

          LocateBio Limited

          Work highlights

          • Advised Blackfinch on several EIS/VCT development capital investments (both new and follow on).
          • Providing ongoing support to Foresight Group with various EIS/VCT/IHT portfolio companies.
          • Supported LocateBio with a £10m investment round to further advance its proprietary pipeline of regenerative orthobiologics products.

          Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 6

          Growing areas for Shakespeare Martineau LLP's nationwide dispute resolution and litigation practice, led by London and Birmingham-based Barry Jervis, include financial services litigation, contentious insolvency and cross-border litigation. In May 2022, India desk head Sneha Nainwal was made partner; former London disputes head David Vaughan joined Collyer Bristow LLP.

          Practice head(s):

          Barry Jervis

          Other key lawyers:

          Sneha Nainwal; Nicola Holton; Catherine Hammerson-Jones; Gareth Hegarty; Lisa Serrant

          Testimonials

          ‘The experience was very professional and accommodating.’

          ‘The team is absolutely professional when it comes to turnaround times and integrity. They adhere to the deliverables promptly and effectively.’

          ‘ A lovely team that works well, and with good knowledge across the board.’

          ‘Sneha Nainwal is a new partner who is definitely one to watch – very bright and will go far.

          ‘Sneha Nainwal  is exceptionally adept in identifying and assembling the perfect team of lawyers.’

          ‘Sneha Nainwal – great on international disputes.

          ‘Legal director Catherine Hammerson-Jones was very hands on and knowledgeable. Her turnarounds were remarkable.’

          Key clients

          Crowdstacker Corporate Services

          Columbia Group

          Venus Assets

          Monex Europe

          South Bank Hotel Management

          Kaushal Corporation

          MC Trustees

          VIT HIT

          Kedai

          Rocquefort Properties

          Rocquefort Property Holdings

          Frontlaunch

          Sunbel Development

          Lotus Properties (LONDON)

          Calderon

          Albion Yard (ESTATES)

          Treasure Global Resources

          Goldbrown

          Julius No 1

          Columbia House Properties (NO 6)

          Luiz Properties

          Crondall

          Vuillard Holdings

          Mintcove Management

          Work highlights

          • Represented Crowdstacker Corporate Services in successfully opposing the classification of the creditors in a restructuring plan submitted by the administrators for Amicus Finance.
          • Acting for Dr Siavash Mahdavi in a claim under the Financial Services Compensation Scheme for recovery of a sum from Sterling Avram’s insurer.
          • Defended Monex against a £78m claim issued by Entertainment One.

          Real estate > Property finance Tier 7

          Islamic finance is a core offering of the team at Shakespeare Martineau LLP, especially regarding residential developments. London and Birmingham-based Mohammed Saqub leads the department and specialises in Islamic financing, as well as handling commercial and residential property investment and development transactions. Legal director Andrew Stevens is also a key member of the team, advising clients on large syndicated deals and restructurings.

          Practice head(s):

          Other key lawyers:

          Key clients

          A.I.B. Group

          Santander

          Shawbrook Bank

          The Charity Bank

          Al Rayan Bank

          Habib Bank Zurich

          Gatehouse Bank

          Handelsbanken

          Leumi ABL

          Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank PJSC

          Punjab National Bank

          OFFA

          Qatar International Bank

          Nester

          Work highlights

          • Assisted a bank with setting up an Islamic finance practice.
          • Acted for various clients in completing over £500m worth of Islamic finance transactions.
          • Advised a non-bank home purchase plan provider on developing bespoke Islamic banking documentation.

          Real estate > Property litigation

          Real estate > Commercial property: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40

          South East > Real estate > Commercial property: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40

          South West > Crime, fraud and licensing > Licensing

          GL Law, which recently merged with Shakespeare Martineau LLP, acts for restaurants, cafes, hotels and bars in licensing matters, advising them on applications for new licenses as well as on variations and transfers. Melissa Toney leads the team, and has recently been active in advising clients on licensing changes related to COVID restrictions as well as the reopening of hospitality.

          Practice head(s):

          Melissa Toney

          Testimonials

          ‘There is a real personal quality to Melissa Toney’s service. She is proactive in identifying ways she can help with her licensing expertise and goes the extra mile to help provide networks of people to help with other areas of our business.’

          ‘Very responsive team and will assist with a wide range of matters.’

          ‘The quality of service is what sets them apart, the personal touch and deep understanding of our needs. We feel like we work collaboratively with Melissa Toney, where both parties work together to establish and deliver on our specific needs.’

          ‘Melissa Toney is extremely responsive and a pleasure to work with.’

          ‘Knowledgeable and always on hand for problems, big or small.’

          ‘This practice has built a strong relationship with the independent venues of Bristol to provide a level of trust in their understanding of local licencing that gives operators an instant advantage when it comes to submitting or challenging licencing applications.’

          ‘A very personal service, they understand you as an operator.’

          Key clients

          Sir Richard Sutton Ltd – Ganesta Georgian Holdings Ltd

          Accor UK Business and Leisure Hotels Limited and Accor UK Economy Hotels Ltd

          Harvey Commercial (Holdings) Ltd

          The Salt Rooms Ltd

          The Bristol Centre for the Advancement of Architecture Ltd

          The BlackRock Restaurant Group

          Central Swindon South Parish Council

          Fat Pig Ltd

          Bosco Bristol Ltd

          Namak Bristol Ltd

          Work highlights

          • Advised Central Swindon South Parish Council on the application process for a premise license for the Town Gardens.
          • Advised the Bristol Centre for the Advancement of Architecture on applying for a license for a cafe bar.
          • Advised a client on the transfer of a license following the licenseholder’s sudden death.

          South West > Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Bristol

          GL Law, which recently merged with Shakespeare Martineau LLP, has a strong track record in advising SMEs on corporate transactions, including acquisitions, disposals and management buyouts. The practice, led by Paul Hardman, is also instructed on restructurings. Hardman focuses on mandates pertaining to the precision manufacturing, healthcare, technology and retail sectors.

          Practice head(s):

          Paul Hardman

          Other key lawyers:

          Bridget Juckes

          Key clients

          CRS Building Supplies

          The Games Room

          Transvault Software

          SWNS Media Group

          Wright Minimix

          The Istoria Group

          Morgan Capital

          Bath & West Finance

          Apex Pumps

          Debbie Fortune

          Ash (Care Homes)

          Brian Eatwell

          Work highlights

          • Assisted RV Smith Leisure ltd t/a The Games Room to acquire the remaining, majority, stake in the iconic juke box brand, Rock-Ola. This involved a series of buy backs in the US and Cayman Islands together with a discharge of loans and other liabilities as part of a cross-border transaction co-ordinated in the UK.
          • Acted for the owners of local accountancy practice, Copson Grandfield on the sale to TC Group.
          • Acted for the majority shareholders of CRS Building Supplies on its sale to Grant & Stone (backed by Cairngorm Private Equity).

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

          GL Law, which recently merged with Shakespeare Martineau LLP, advises clients on matters from high-net-worth estate planning and trusts and estate administration, to Court of Protection work and elderly and vulnerable client service work. Heledd Wyn leads the team.

          Practice head(s):

          Heledd Wyn

          Other key lawyers:

          Ben Coulson

          Testimonials

          ‘Heledd Wyn is bright, innovative and cares deeply, not just about her clients but the wider issues of long term care.’

          ‘The team is very active in the local market, highlighting areas of concern for private client financial planning and a particular strength is in elderly care and estate planning.’

          ‘Heledd Wynn is very approachable and inspires confidence in her clients and colleagues alike. She campaigns to highlight concerns among practitioners around future financial planning.’

          ‘Strong private client team, especially in regards to elderly care and financial planning. The team is super friendly and accessible.’

          ‘Heledd Wyn is a smart lawyer with in depth knowledge of her field. She is friendly and approachable.’

          ‘An extremely professional, friendly and helpful team.’

          ‘An excellent specialist team very well respected in the wider later life field.’

          ‘Expertise, great service, very approachable, reliable, and a good team.’

          On paper we’re a full-service law firm, providing legal services to businesses, organisations, government departments, families and people throughout life and in business. But we offer so much more than that. Expertise, commerciality and relationships are at the very heart of what we do.

          We employ more than 900 people, each specialist in their field, lawyers and business support working together. But what makes us tick, what drives us and why should you work with us?

          Our purpose is clear and our ambitions are unlimited: we want to unlock potential in our people and clients, inspiring confidence, growth and development. We provide creative solutions and advice that helps you fulfil your commercial and personal goals.

          What is vitally important to us though is that we build lasting relationships, championing our clients and providing the best possible business and personal advice.

          We want to be the advisors who help you drive forward, engage in new ventures, challenge the established way, embrace the new abnormal and take advantage of opportunities. Our website tells you about our services and our specialists sectors – you can see what we do and how we do it.

          Let us see how we can unlock your potential, get in touch today.

          DepartmentNameEmailTelephone
          Chief Executive Officer Sarah Walker-Smithsarah.walker-smith@shma.co.uk0121 237 3013
          Group Chief Operating Officer Ben Bucktonben.buckton@shma.co.uk07976 412 772
          Group Chief Information Officer Andrew Foremanandrew.foreman@shma.co.uk07808 876 927
          Chief Financial Officer Paul Birdpaul.bird@shma.co.uk07974 326 014
          Senior Partner Andrew Whiteheadandrew.whitehead@shma.co.uk07831 160 753
          Managing Director - Life & Business Victoria Testervictoria.tester@shma.co.uk07968 253 601
          Managing Director - Litigation Services & Dispute Resolution Mark Beesleymark.beesley@shma.co.uk07793 647 927
          Managing Director - Infrastructure & Specialist Markets Alex Smithalex.smith@shma.co.uk07545 210 154
          Head of Corporate Duncan Jamesduncan.james@shma.co.uk07973 794 297
          Head of Corporate Michael Stacemichael.stace@shma.co.uk07889 007 420
          Head of Commercial, IP & Employment Phil Pepperphilip.pepper@shma.co.uk07713 309 708
          Head of Corclaim/Reddens Jayne Gardnerjayne.gardner@shma.co.uk07841 881 175
          Head of Lime Tony Hanningtontony.hannington@limesolicitors.co.uk07880 904 101
          Head of Litigation Barry Jervisbarry.jervis@shma.co.uk07912 307 489
          Head of Managed Legal Services Emma Porteremma.porter@shma.co.uk07841 806 490
          Head of Restructuring Andy Taylorandrew.taylor@shma.co.uk07734 553 369
          Head of Building Communities Louise Drewlouise.drew@shma.co.uk07974 641 816
          Head of Commercial Property & Development Joe Souljoseph.soul@shma.co.uk07929 849 069
          Head of Residential Development Neil Goslingneil.gosling@shma.co.uk07976 414 568
          Head of Marrons Brian Mullinbrian.mullin@marrons.co.uk07809 091 472
          Head of Family Helen Bownshelen.bowns@shma.co.uk07891 338 054
          Head of Private Client Suzanne Leggottsuzanne.leggott@shma.co.uk07850 508 853
          Head of Residential Conveyancing Ed Atkined.atkin@shma.co.uk07720 200 168
          Joint Office Head - Birmingham James Woolstenhulmejames.woolstenhulme@shma.co.uk07885 988 982
          Joint Office Head - Birmingham Joanna Lee-Millsjoanna.lee-mills@shma.co.uk07815 478 312
          Joint Office Head - Bristol Richard Hillrichard.hill@shma.co.uk01179 069 407
          Joint Office Head - Bristol Nick Jonesnick.jones@shma.co.uk01179 069 254
          Office Head - Edinburgh Grant Dochertygrant.docherty@shma.co.uk07977 395 404
          Joint Office Head - Leicester Lisa Botterilllisa.botterill@shma.co.uk07976 414 289
          Joint Office Head - Leicester Louise Ingramlouise.ingram@shma.co.uk07515 974 135
          Office Head - Lincoln Michael Squirrellmichael.squirrell@shma.co.uk07929 849 067
          Office Head - Milton Keynes Allawee Albaghdadiallawee.albaghdadi@shma.co.uk07929 849 079
          Office Head - Nottingham Roger Harcourtroger.harcourt@shma.co.uk07789 746 016
          Office Head - Sheffield Carys Thompsoncarys.thompson@shma.co.uk07970 123 394
          Office Head - Stratford and Solihull Andrew Smithandrew.smith@shma.co.uk07775 028 458
          Number of UK partners : 130+
          Number of employees : 1,000+
          Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Solicitors
          Agricultural Law Association
          Associated European Energy Consultants (AEEC)
          ELA (Employment Lawyers Association)
          Forum of Insurance Lawyers (FOIL)
          ILPA (Immigration Lawyers Practice Association)
          INTA - International Trademark Association
          Multilaw
          National Farmers Union
          Resolution
          Solicitors for the Elderly
          Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners (STEP)

          Our People Purpose

          • Provide an open, supportive, inclusive environment that ensures everyone can be their authentic selves
          • Recognise, value and celebrate diversity; continually seek to improve diversity across the organisation
          • Provide a culture that prioritises wellbeing for our people, to better support our clients and investors
          • Dedicate time and resources to improve social mobility within the communities we work in

          CLIENT: Magi Hoppitt
          COMPANY/FIRM: Coventry University
          TESTIMONIAL: I appreciate the responsive approach and support provided by the team…


          CLIENT: Melanie Baker
          COMPANY/FIRM: Melton Support Services Ltd
          TESTIMONIAL: Excellent team with expert advice that makes me feeI very confident with the decisions I need to make.


          CLIENT: Matthew Bullock
          COMPANY/FIRM: Acorns Children’s Hospice Trust
          TESTIMONIAL: The service we have received at Acorns has been incredibly professional and responsive, providing robust guidance and assurance in approaches we are undertaking. I would not hesitate to recommend Shakespeare Martineau to others.


          CLIENT: Rajat Lal
          COMPANY/FIRM: KPMG
          TESTIMONIAL: … sharp and commercial. … quick to identify opportunities and provide solutions. She has utilised her phenomenal international network to help deliver strategic cross-border legal solutions for our high value clients.


          CLIENT: Tom Ilube CBE
          COMPANY/FIRM: Crossword Cyber Security
          TESTIMONIAL: When Crossword was founded six years ago, I sought out…..the team at Shakespeare Martineau right at the start. I wanted a company secretarial partner who could go on the journey from my blank sheet of paper start up to a rapidly growing AIM-listed company and beyond, adapting to our needs and providing excellent support every step of the way.