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

BRIDGEWAY HOUSE
BRIDGEWAY
STRATFORD-UPON-AVON
CV37 6YX
England
Shakespeare Martineau LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
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):
Other key lawyers:
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):
Other key lawyers:
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 JamdarPractice 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 BotterillPractice head(s):
Roy Botterill
Other key lawyers:
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 diligent’ John 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 JamdarPractice 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):
Other key lawyers:
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 JamdarPractice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
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):
Other key lawyers:
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 WhiteheadPractice 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 knowledgeable’ Tim 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:
Malcolm Johnson; Amy Lee; Kent Pattinson
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 WhiteheadPractice 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
Real estate > Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
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.’
Shakespeare Martineau LLP > Firm Profile
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.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Chief Executive Officer | Sarah Walker-Smith | sarah.walker-smith@shma.co.uk | 0121 237 3013 |
Group Chief Operating Officer | Ben Buckton | ben.buckton@shma.co.uk | 07976 412 772 |
Group Chief Information Officer | Andrew Foreman | andrew.foreman@shma.co.uk | 07808 876 927 |
Chief Financial Officer | Paul Bird | paul.bird@shma.co.uk | 07974 326 014 |
Senior Partner | Andrew Whitehead | andrew.whitehead@shma.co.uk | 07831 160 753 |
Managing Director - Life & Business | Victoria Tester | victoria.tester@shma.co.uk | 07968 253 601 |
Managing Director - Litigation Services & Dispute Resolution | Mark Beesley | mark.beesley@shma.co.uk | 07793 647 927 |
Managing Director - Infrastructure & Specialist Markets | Alex Smith | alex.smith@shma.co.uk | 07545 210 154 |
Head of Corporate | Duncan James | duncan.james@shma.co.uk | 07973 794 297 |
Head of Corporate | Michael Stace | michael.stace@shma.co.uk | 07889 007 420 |
Head of Commercial, IP & Employment | Phil Pepper | philip.pepper@shma.co.uk | 07713 309 708 |
Head of Corclaim/Reddens | Jayne Gardner | jayne.gardner@shma.co.uk | 07841 881 175 |
Head of Lime | Tony Hannington | tony.hannington@limesolicitors.co.uk | 07880 904 101 |
Head of Litigation | Barry Jervis | barry.jervis@shma.co.uk | 07912 307 489 |
Head of Managed Legal Services | Emma Porter | emma.porter@shma.co.uk | 07841 806 490 |
Head of Restructuring | Andy Taylor | andrew.taylor@shma.co.uk | 07734 553 369 |
Head of Building Communities | Louise Drew | louise.drew@shma.co.uk | 07974 641 816 |
Head of Commercial Property & Development | Joe Soul | joseph.soul@shma.co.uk | 07929 849 069 |
Head of Residential Development | Neil Gosling | neil.gosling@shma.co.uk | 07976 414 568 |
Head of Marrons | Brian Mullin | brian.mullin@marrons.co.uk | 07809 091 472 |
Head of Family | Helen Bowns | helen.bowns@shma.co.uk | 07891 338 054 |
Head of Private Client | Suzanne Leggott | suzanne.leggott@shma.co.uk | 07850 508 853 |
Head of Residential Conveyancing | Ed Atkin | ed.atkin@shma.co.uk | 07720 200 168 |
Joint Office Head - Birmingham | James Woolstenhulme | james.woolstenhulme@shma.co.uk | 07885 988 982 |
Joint Office Head - Birmingham | Joanna Lee-Mills | joanna.lee-mills@shma.co.uk | 07815 478 312 |
Joint Office Head - Bristol | Richard Hill | richard.hill@shma.co.uk | 01179 069 407 |
Joint Office Head - Bristol | Nick Jones | nick.jones@shma.co.uk | 01179 069 254 |
Office Head - Edinburgh | Grant Docherty | grant.docherty@shma.co.uk | 07977 395 404 |
Joint Office Head - Leicester | Lisa Botterill | lisa.botterill@shma.co.uk | 07976 414 289 |
Joint Office Head - Leicester | Louise Ingram | louise.ingram@shma.co.uk | 07515 974 135 |
Office Head - Lincoln | Michael Squirrell | michael.squirrell@shma.co.uk | 07929 849 067 |
Office Head - Milton Keynes | Allawee Albaghdadi | allawee.albaghdadi@shma.co.uk | 07929 849 079 |
Office Head - Nottingham | Roger Harcourt | roger.harcourt@shma.co.uk | 07789 746 016 |
Office Head - Sheffield | Carys Thompson | carys.thompson@shma.co.uk | 07970 123 394 |
Office Head - Stratford and Solihull | Andrew Smith | andrew.smith@shma.co.uk | 07775 028 458 |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Helen Bowns | Partner and Head of Family | View Profile |
![]() | Louise Drew | Partner & Head of Building Communities | View Profile |
![]() | Paula Evans | Associate | View Profile |
![]() | Stewart Freeman | Legal Director | View Profile |
![]() | Jayne Gardner | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Rachel Gwynne | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Alan Hamblett | Director Debt & Asset Recovery | View Profile |
![]() | Helen Hughes | Legal Director | View Profile |
![]() | Caroline Irvine | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Janet James | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Peter Jones | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Andrew Smith | Partner & Head of Stratford | View Profile |
![]() | Emma Smith-Gamble | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Emma Smith-Gamble | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Peter Snodgrass | Partner & Head of Agriculture | View Profile |
![]() | Alistair Spencer | Associate | View Profile |
![]() | Jennie Wheildon | Partner | View Profile |
![]() | Iwan Williams | Partner | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 130+ Number of employees : 1,000+Memberships
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)Diversity
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 Testimonials
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.
- Dispute resolution > Debt recovery
- Private client > Agriculture and estates
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Public sector > Education
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Elsewhere in East Midlands
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant
- Private client > Charities and not-for-profit
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Private client > Family
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in the East Midlands
- Real estate > Commercial property: Nottingham and Derby
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport
- Public sector > Education: institutions
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham
- Employment
- Employment > Immigration
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Private client > Charities and not-for-profit
- Private client > Family: Birmingham
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy, project finance and PFI
- Real estate > Property litigation
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Nottingham and Derby
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: elsewhere in the East Midlands
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Nottingham and Derby
- Employment
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Real estate > Construction
- Real estate > Planning and environment
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- Finance > Islamic finance
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Birmingham
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: elsewhere in the West Midlands
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in the West Midlands
- Real estate > Construction
- Real estate > Planning
- Real estate > Social housing
- Insurance > Personal injury: claimant
- Private client > Family: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
- Crime, fraud and licensing > Licensing
- Private client > Family
- Private client > Family: elsewhere in the West Midlands
- Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham
- Insurance > Clinical negligence: claimant
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Power (including electricity, nuclear and renewables)
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Bristol
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant
- Real estate > Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx
- Corporate and commercial > Venture capital
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market