Browne Jacobson LLP > Birmingham, England > Firm Profile
Browne Jacobson LLP Offices

15th Floor
103 Colmore Row
Birmingham
B3 3AG
England
Browne Jacobson LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s team of ‘true specialists’ are ‘capable of managing busy caseloads with ease and good humour’. It has one of the largest national defendant clinical negligence offerings in the UK and also has a strong social care practice. Sarah White is an experienced NHS Resolution nominated partner who frequently handles high-value clinical negligence claims. Jonathan Fuggle is likewise a nominated partner for NHS Resolution who has particular expertise in neurological, obstetric and gynaecological matters whereas Sarah Manning regularly works on GP indemnity issues. At the cornerstone of the personal injury practice is catastrophic brain and spinal injury claims, complex employer’s liability and public liability claims, as well as other issues that arise in the context of sports, disease and abuse. Kevin Lawson is a specialist in brain injury, paraplegic and chronic pain claims meanwhile Bridget Tatham is skilled in EL/PLL casualty work. Rachel Lyne heads up the Birmingham regulatory team and the firm’s public inquiry team, Cynthia Watts is a key member of the social care and abuse practice and Matthew Harpin continues to be lauded for his representation of local authority clients, his work on adult social care claims and on all aspects of employers’ liability claims.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Without exception, all members of Browne Jacobson’ s PI team are excellent team players. As a result they provide the highest level of service to their clients. The PI team’s knowledge of the law, the market and of their insurer clients’ needs is also second to none. Kevin Lawson always has a laser like focus on obtaining commercial and pragmatic solutions for his insurer clients who are incredibly loyal as a result. Kevin is also exceptionally good at considering problems from all angles and values input from all members of his team, associates and counsel alike‘.
‘Kevin Lawson’s team is vastly experienced. The lawyers know the field inside out and make good strategic decisions as to how to fight a case. Kevin Lawson. Sound judgment. Paul Smith. Hardworking. Sensible. Calm under pressure’.
‘Matthew Harpin is an invaluable member of the team. He has provided us with fantastic support and advice over many years and can be relied upon to put opponents under pressure to deliver the right result’.
‘Matthew Harpin & Bridget Tatham are first-rate: both are tactically astute, calm and measured and seem to enjoy effortless relationships with clients even in difficult cases’.
‘Bridget Tatham is impressively client focused and commercial in her mindset. She doesn’t flinch in the face of the most challenging and interesting cases. Matthew Harpin is the ultimate team player. He is always on top of his cases‘.
‘Over the years I have worked on multiple cases with David Toulmin van Sittert and Sarah Manning among others. I have found them efficient and effective in their management of their cases. They have sound strategic insight and are a pleasure to work with’.
‘Jonathan Fuggle and Hannah Wallace. Jonathan has a fantastic eye for detail and is very commercial. Hannah is hardworking and has exceptional judgment‘.
‘David Toulmin van Sittert stands out as an incredibly intelligent, hardworking and effective senior associate. I have been instructed by him now in a number of cases. His instructions are always extremely thorough – identifying for counsel the key issues and referencing the relevant evidence. He is totally committed to every client and every case and always available to discuss any points arising, however complex‘.
Key clients
NHS Resolution
Medical Protection Society
CNA Hardy
BMI Healthcare
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust
Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust
The Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Care UK
Hiscox
NHS Resolution
Municipal Mutual Insurance Limited
Marble Arch and Lexham Insurance Services
Zurich
Gallagher Bassett
Davies Group
Resolute
Work highlights
- Advised NHS Resolution and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust in a successful appeal to the Court of Appeal in a case that has profound consequences for secondary victim claims in clinical negligence contexts. Permission has been granted for a further appeal to the Supreme Court.
- Summary judgement was secured following exchange of liability expert evidence, once it became apparent that the claimant (who proceeded as a litigant in person) no longer enjoyed the continued involvement of his experts. The case also proceeds to the Court of Appeal.
- Successfully resolved a significant traumatic brain injury claim at mediation (with no counsel instructed for its client) for 20% of its agreed value, saving £1.88m in damages.
Public sector > Education Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s ‘first class’ education team offers a comprehensive practice with a strong focus on higher education in the West Midlands and across the UK. The team is known for being deft with complex, political and media-sensitive issues. Nick MacKenzie leads the team, acting as a key contact for many of the firm’s significant clients. He has a wealth of experience in advising executives, chairs and trustees in relation to governance and strategic projects. Richard Freeth leads the national education team’s advisory practice and supports schools on a range of issues including admission arrangements, Equality Act issues, clerking appeals and parental complaints. Helen Badger has expertise in employment law matters affecting education. Associates Lydia Michaelson-Yeates and Hayley O’Sullivan are key members of the team. Senior associate Philip Wood is experienced in advising school and academies on issues relating to the Equality Act.Practice head(s):
Nick MacKenzie
Other key lawyers:
Richard Freeth; Nick Mackenzie; Lydia Michaelson-Yeates; Hayley O’Sullivan; Philip Wood
Testimonials
‘First class in all aspects of Educational law e.g. admissions, SEND, exclusions, GDPR and HR.’
‘the support we receive from Richard Freith and Mark Bois is exceptional’
‘My main contact at Browne Jacobson is Lydia Michaelson-Yeates (Legal Director) who is always very approachable and prepared to take time to listen to my needs.’
‘The education team that I interact with at Browne Jacobson are ultimate professionals. They constantly provide sound advice based on having a robust understanding of the current contest with a consideration of where the sector is moving in the near future.’
‘Browne Jacobson offers an all-encompassing service that is forward-thinking and allows our sector the space to consider the issues and opportunities open to us through the forums they facilitate above and beyond the industry standard.’
‘Nick Mackenzie is always the individual that stands out for me. He fosters an environment for me to question what I thought I knew through his quite brilliant, simple questioning of the context within which we work.’
‘Lydia Michaelson-Yeates is personable, pragmatic, clear and responsive. I have confidence in her advice and she always makes the time to talk things through if I am unclear on anything or have concerns. She always seeks to understand the needs of our Trust.’
‘Philip Wood acts as a client lead for us and always provides pragmatic and timely support as needed’
Key clients
Arthur Terry Learning Partnership
Bath and North East Somerset Council
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council
Brooke Weston Trust
Elliot Foundation Academies Trust
Falcon Education Academies Trust
GLF Schools
King’s College London
Lion Academy Trust
Northampton Primary Academy Trust
Outwood Grange Academies Trust
Shaw Education Trust
University of Hertfordshire
Warwick Independent Schools Foundation
Work highlights
- Defended an application for an injunction to stop the implementation of a trust’s policy on face masks in the first nationally known case of its kind (AB v the Trustees of the Tapton School Academy Trust [2021] EWHC 1160 (QB)).
- Supported this successful school trust on its continued growth and continue to provide full-service advice across legal and HR.
- Advised a consortium on all aspects of their bid to create a new Institute of Teaching to provide teachers and school leaders with prestigious training and development throughout their career. This bid was under the DfE’s Teacher Recruitment and Retention Strategy with allocated funding of over £120m anticipated over the lifetime of the project.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1
The highly regarded intellectual property practice at Browne Jacobson LLP is known for taking on high stakes disputes for major clients on a national and international scale, particularly within the beauty, retail, media, higher education and automotive sectors. Mark Daniels leads the Birmingham team and the firm’s high tech patent litigation practice with a specialism in contentious IP. Associate Nick Smee is a specialist in both contentious and non-contentious IP work.Practice head(s):
Declan Cushley; Mark Daniels
Testimonials
‘Great knowledge of patents and IP’
‘Down to earth and makes sure they have fully understood the issues and problems at stake.’
Key clients
Aston Martin Lagonda
A-Ward Attachments
Match Group LLC
Mace Group
Clean Power Hydrogen
Lotus Cars
Marstons PLC
DPD
University of Hertfordshire
Bollin Group
GKN Aerospace
Hyperice
Kings College London
Goodyear Dunlop
Ventive Ltd
Brunel University London
Work highlights
- Act for the Match Group and recently represented them in litigation which commenced in 2020 to enforce their famous Match and Tinder trade mark portfolio against Muzmatch Limited. The litigation has received extensive press coverage to date including in the Financial Times, Business Insider and Bloomberg as well as in tabloid publications like the Daily Mail. We await the judgment.
- Represented A-Ward in its successful patent infringement claim against Fabcon, the court finding our client’s parent patent valid and infringed. The case involved complex legal issues and the infringement case was pursued purely on the doctrine of equivalents, following the landmark Actavis v Eli Lilly decision.
- Advising Clean Power Hydrogen Group Limited (CPH2) on a number of deals to commercialise its core membrane-free electrolyser technology in the production of highly-pure hydrogen, including a 15-year partnership with Northern Ireland Water (NI Water).
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP is well-regarded for its national coverage and its involvement in high-value sales and acquisitions, particularly private equity transactions as demonstrated with Gavin CummingsPractice head(s):
Gavin Cummings; Richard Cox; Selina Hinchliffe; Kay Chand
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Pure Gym
Bridge Farm Group
Addo Food Group
Brokerbility Holdings
BCF Equity Partners
CARE Fertility Group
Apiary Capital Partners
SDL Property Services Group
Belvoir Lettings plc
Lloyds Development Capital (LDC)
Rcapital Partners LLP
Hay Wain Group
Foresight Group LLP
Bionical Solutions Limited
Blue Light Card Limited
The Appointment Group Limited
Connect Managed Services group
The Edwin Group Limited
Kingswood Corporation Limited
Wismettac Harro Foods
MI Hub Limited
Paddle Holdings Limited
CHAS 2013 Ltd
Work highlights
- Acted for the selling shareholders, management team and private equity house LDC on the sale of Addo Food Group (Holdings) Ltd (Addo) to French private equity house PAI Partners.
- Advising the shareholders of Centiq Limited (including Private Equity house LDC) on the sale of Centiq to international acquiror SoftwareOne.
- Advised enX plc, a South African plc on the sale of the entire issued share capital of Impact Fork Trucks Limited.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP has a noteworthy track record of acting in high-value cross-border disputes for large international corporations with the ‘outstanding’ practice being particularly experienced in claims for clients from the energy, retail and manufacturing sectors. The team has further expertise in the areas of IT and technology claims which was bolstered by the arrival of partner Sophie Ashcroft, specialist for technology and IT disputes, in March 2021. Jonathan Tardif is the practice head and has expertise in handling international claims which is ‘unique in the area’. Clients highlight that the team is ‘extremely cost-efficient and cost-conscious’.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Tardif
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Overall service, in terms of advice given, legal letters drafted and response times, has been excellent.’
‘The team are outstanding, flexible and work at supersonic speed.’
‘Jonathan Tardif is fantastic.’
‘They have full knowledge about our business and legal compliance.’
‘The commercial litigation team under Jonathan Tardif is very strong, punching well above its weight in complex litigation, often involving an international or jurisdictional/applicable law element. For the work that they do they are extremely cost-efficient and cost-conscious.’
‘Jonathan Tardif is absolutely excellent. He is an extremely good lawyer, always commercial & practical, very responsive and efficient. His and the team’s expertise in international or jurisdictional/applicable law cases is impressive and, to my knowledge, unique in the area.’
Key clients
Centrica plc/British Gas
Vision Express
Twin Hill Acquisition Co, Inc
Nottingham Forest Football Club
idverde UK
London EV Company (formerly London Taxi)
Staffline plc
Hiscox
NHS England
Work highlights
- Appointed to act as virtual general counsel to the board of Mi Hub Limited, the UK parent company of Twin Hill Acquisition Co, Inc, to advise on litigation strategy and key risk issues arising from a suite of litigation in the US arising from allegedly defective uniforms supplied by Twin Hill to 65,000 American Airlines employees.
- Instructed by the client, a global manufacturer and distributor of water heating systems, to defend a claim brought against them by Canetis claiming damages of up to £50m for alleged breaches of an agreement whereby the client was to use best endeavours to promote and expand the supply of a Canetis product – GasSaver – across the UK.
Finance > Banking and finance Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP maintains its enviable position as a top finance practice for acquisition, real estate finance, asset based lending and restructuring. Private equity transactions comprises a significant portion of the instructions, particularly in the healthcare sector. Shaun McCabe heads the Nottingham based department, and is a trusted advisor to numerous lenders, private equity houses and corporate borrowers. Mark Lewis lends complementary expertise in property finance. Senior associate James Busby is another integral member of the team.Practice head(s):
Shaun McCabe
Other key lawyers:
Mark Lewis; James Busby
Testimonials
‘The commitment of some individuals often goes above and beyond to ensure that deals are completed in the most efficient way for our business.’
Key clients
HSBC
Virgin Money/Clydesdale
NatWest
Santander
Shawbrook
RBSIF
BREAL Zeta CF
Investec
BOOST&Co
Rcapital
ThinCats
OakNorth
Lloyds
Work highlights
- Refinance of Bridge Farm Nurseries with senior debt provided by Shawbrook Bank and mezzanine debt by Beechbrook.
- Advised Apiary Capital in connection with the management buy out of XVR Stimulations in the Netherlands and Learnpro in the UK including senior debt finance from Santander.
- Advising Shawbrook Bank on a sizeable asset based lending facility to United Tooling Solutions Limited providing working capital and acquisition finance for 4 acquisitions by UTS.
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1
Fielding ‘hugely talented associates backed up by very well-respected partners’, Browne Jacobson LLP‘s restructuring and insolvency practice is led by Emma Taylor , a ‘bright, experienced and conscientious litigator’ with experience in all forms of insolvency procedure and practice. Associate and ‘exceptional talent’ Joe Price works closely with Taylor. The practice leverages support from senior associate Chloe Poskitt in cases involving insolvency in the education sector.Practice head(s):
Emma Taylor
Other key lawyers:
Chloe Poskitt; Joe Price
Testimonials
‘Very transparent in terms of billing. Hugely talented associates backed up by very well-respected partners’. Hugely reassuring. Honest. Straight.’
‘Joe Price – Joe is an exceptional talent. He acts instantly to protect his clients. The results we have had from Joe have been nothing short of astonishing.
‘This is a strong team with good depth of experience. I find them easy to work with. The solicitors there are up to speed with the current law. They provide a savvy and sensible approach to litigation and are easy to deal with. They use technology really well to manage files/correspondence/deadlines.’
‘I have worked a lot with Emma Taylor who is a bright, experienced and conscientious litigator. She has her ear to the ground on law and practical/commercial considerations. Her cases are extremely well prepared and thought out.’
‘Emma Taylor – stands her ground against the Magic Circle behemoths’
‘Browne Jacobson have a wealth of experience in this field. I would have no hesitation in recommending Browne Jacobson. It is also worth noting that the court had praised Browne Jacobson on more than one occasion for their professional approach and documentation.’
Key clients
Pure Gym Limited
Grant Thornton UK LLP
The Directors of Fruehauf Limited (in Administration)
FRP Advisory LLP
The Directors of Paperchase Products Limited
Interpath Advisory
Mazars LLP
Derbyshire County Council
Quantuma LLP
BM Advisory/ Moorfields Advisory Ltd
Antony Batty & Co
Work highlights
- Advised the company (in their position as a subtenant) following the proposal of a contested Part 26A Restructuring Plan by Virgin Active and others in order to achieve court mandated modifications to that Plan to avoid the illegal termination of various sub-tenancies.
- Advised the Joint Administrators of NMCN plc in connection with the company’s interests in two joint ventures and completed transactions to realise those interests for the benefit of creditors.
- Advised the majority of the Directors of the company on its insolvency options and obtained the appointment of administrators via a hostile court application in which entry into administration was opposed by the remaining director.
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant Tier 1
Comprising of a ‘conscientious group of lawyers with a large volume of top quality, complex NHS clinical negligence work’ Browne Jacobson LLP is a market leading defendant practice. Lorna Hardman chairs the national clinical negligence department, and has 25 years’ experience of advising NHS and private bodies on complex and high value claims, inquests and serious incidents. Sarah Erwin-jones is the primary partner for social care claims, while Ian Long has an interest in on wrongful birth and ambulance service cases. Kelly Buckley is another key figure for NHS defendant litigation. Victoria Curran and James Fawcett , head of personal injury group, continue to hold a busy case load in employers’ liability, public liability and claims arising from equality and Human Rights legislation, acting for local authority, government bodies and insurance clients.Practice head(s):
Lorna Hardman; James Fawcett
Other key lawyers:
Victoria Curran; Ian Long; Sarah Erwin-Jones; Kelly Buckley; Damian Whitlam
Testimonials
‘Enormous experience representing local authorities’
‘Sarah Erwin-Jones leads the team and has a strong reputation. Damian Whitlam – very impressive. An approachable partner that is on top of all the issues within any given case. I trust him to prepare the case and manage it from cradle to grave’
‘A very close knit, conscientious group of lawyers with a large volume of top quality, complex NHS clinical negligence work.’
‘I have worked with Browne Jacobson’s social care team for the last 20 years, dealing with claims against local authorities. The team has a huge institutional knowledge of such litigation. They are one of the leading defence solicitors in this are in the country.’
‘The team has vast experience of clinical negligence and obvious knowledge of the subject matter of claims . They are focused on longstanding relationships with Trusts in East Midlands . It is conspicuous that they offer extra value to these Trusts through training and networking events . This means they retain the trust and confidence of their clients .’
‘Ian Long is very experienced lawyer dealing with claims of maximum severity.
‘Browne Jacobson is a firm full of intelligent, motivated, highly personable lawyers. They are a pleasure to work with. The real strength of the firm is the depth of talent and ability. The associates are given freedom to run their own cases, which they do with great aplomb, although partner supervision is always there for support. ‘
‘Browne Jacobson has good people at all levels of the business. It is what marks this firm apart from others that I have worked with.
Key clients
Ageas/Tesco
Barnados
Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council
Birmingham City Council
Derbyshire County Council
Dorset Council
EM LawShare
English Benedictine Congregation
Environment Agency
Gallagher Bassett International Limited
Hiscox
Insurance London Consortium
Leicester City Council
Leicestershire County Council
LGSS
Lincolnshire County Council
Marine Management Organisation
Markel (UK) Limited
Medical Protection Society
Municipal Mutual Insurance
Natural England
NHS Resolution
Norfolk County Council
North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
Work highlights
- Acted for the Defendant council in a Failure to Remove claim brought by a young person under the Human Right Act.
- In one of a number of successfully defended claims, the team represented the defendant school in respect of a claim brought by a sixth form pupil who suffered a significant injury following an accident while climbing over locked school gates on the morning of the last school day of the year.
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s sizeable Nottingham team is led by the ‘exceptionally responsive and smart’ Jonathan Newbold , who deals with claims with a financial services and management liability element, as well as insurance coverage disputes. Also specialising in the financial sector, Derek Bambury represents accountants, solicitors, and insurance intermediaries. Marlene Henderson is another market leading defence lawyer for claims against solicitors, accountants and a number of emerging professionals such as interior designers and management consultants; she has significant expertise in advising on indemnity issues affecting professional indemnity policies and management liability portfolio policies.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Newbold
Other key lawyers:
Derek Bambury; Marlene Henderson
Testimonials
‘Amazing team work- one of the best in terms of applying their minds to cases before they come to chambers’
‘The firm’s breadth of knowledge about my client’s industry, the firm’s efficiency, its billing rates, and the quality of its written work product all are exceptional, among other strengths. I think of Browne Jacobson LLP first when brainstorming choices in outside counsel for many of our matters.’
‘Jonathan Newbold is exceptionally responsive and smart. He instils confidence. We’ve sought his counsel in connection with a handful of our most sensitive and challenging matters, and I’ve strongly valued his analysis and guidance.’
‘Browne Jacobson’s professional negligence practice provide an excellent level of service. The team have really taken time to build a relationship with us and get to know us as an organisation. They are friendly and responsive, really easy to work with and give excellent legal advice.’
‘Jonathan Newbold – Jonathan is sufficiently involved at Partner level to make a real impact without overdoing it. Jonathan and his team give practical, sensible and high quality advice and balance the legal position against the commercial reality of cases.
‘Great attention to detail; Marlene Henderson has excellent judgement and able to take a commercial view at an early stage – very valuable for insurer clients; strong team below the partners’
‘Jonathan Newbold is a key advisor. It is his detailed knowledge of us, as his client, that makes him so easy to deal with and a trusted “go to” advisor. Jonathan can always be relied upon for prompt, clear and strategic advice.’
‘Marlene Henderson is probably my ‘go to’ person at B.J. I will never forget her kindness to me. Marlene will do everything she can to get a good and fair result for our clients. I cannot thank her enough.’
Key clients
Hiscox
Bar Mutual Indemnity Fund
Pen Underwriting Ltd
International Insurance Company of Hannover SE
Arthur J Gallagher Insurance Brokers Ltd
Aston Scott Lark
Abacus
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
Zurich Insurance Plc
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 1
The highly-regarded team at Browne Jacobson LLP is ‘very knowledgeable and easy to work with’ owing to its extensive history working with private clients, often for several generations, in wealth structuring, UK and offshore trust structuring and contentions work. Practice head Lucy Worwood advises many significant leading family businesses on their estate and succession planning, and is highly experienced in personal tax and will drafting, among other areas. Wenna Thompson is another key figure in the Nottingham office.Practice head(s):
Lucy Worwood
Other key lawyers:
Wenna Thompson
Testimonials
‘Lucy Worwood is my main contact and I have worked with Lucy for too many years to count. Lucy is knowledgeable and always helpful whatever the issue.’
‘They are very knowledgeable and easy to work with.’
‘Lucy Worwood is very knowledgeable and easy to work with.’
‘The team work together well to meet varying client needs, referring aspects to others to assist when necessary.’
Projects, energy and natural resources > Private finance initiative (PFI) Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP has an ‘excellent capacity over a wide range of legal services’ and is further a ‘specialist in local authority law’, working with private sector clients and public bodies on numerous, PFI and PPP schemes as well as long-term commercial contracts. The ‘extremely knowledgeable’ team has particular experience of environmental projects and regularly advises on waste management procurements and waste infrastructure projects as well as large scale regeneration projects. Practice head Craig Elder ‘goes out of his way to be supportive’ when assisting clients on projects relating to social, energy and leisure infrastructure.Practice head(s):
Craig Elder
Testimonials
‘The lead solicitor and wider team provided excellent advice, legal documentation in a timely and professional manner. This was vital to us in a fast changing environment as a result of Covid.’
‘Craig Elder was outstanding, not only in terms of legal advice provided, but also in is overall approach in supporting us through a difficult contract negotiation. Craig undertook additional work at short notice to meet challenging deadlines and always kept me and the my team updated of risks and emerging issues as they arose.’
‘Excellent capacity over a wide range of legal services and specialist in Local Authority law. Strength in the ability to offer outcome focused advice’
‘I have always found the approach from BrowneJacobson, unique and consistently customer focussed. Whoever I have dealt with has made me feel like their only, or most important client. They are extremely knowledgeable and strike the right balance between advice, giving the client the confidence to understand potential risks, and make their own decisions.’
‘Craig Elder goes out of his way to be supportive and work with you to understand your and goal and objectives, giving several options traditional or innovative that could provide the best outcome. He is an asset to the firm and I feel privileged to work with him.’
‘It has a strong team, not just a lead individual, and can provide a full service.’
‘They consider the position from a client perspective and make strong recommendations.’
Key clients
Nottinghamshire County Council
Derbyshire County Council
London Borough of Croydon
London Borough of Enfield
Watford Borough Council
London Borough of Ealing
Folkestone & Hythe District Council
Rushmoor Borough Council
Elmbridge Borough Council
East Suffolk Council
Morgan Sindall Investments Limited (now Lovell Partnerships)
Kent County Council
Oxford City Council
First Sentier Investors
Enfinium
Thurrock Council
Work highlights
- Acted for Derbyshire County Council in relation to its high-value waste management infrastructure PFI, leading on all aspects of the termination of this arrangement, including complex compensation provisions, and the council’s re-procurement.
- Advised Oxford City Council on its electrical vehicle charging superhub project.
- Recently advised the London Borough Council, and the South London Waste Partnership, in relation to its high-value procurement of a food and green waste solution for four London Boroughs.
Public sector Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP ‘consistently provides reliable, sound advice and guidance in all legal matters’ across the spectrum of public sector matters. The ‘approachable and knowledgeable’ team has particular specialisations in the education sector where it acts for, among others, schools, higher education institutions, multi-academy trusts, charities, professional associations and government bodies, as well as healthcare where it acts for various NHS bodies in relation to policy, governance, regulation, inquests, clinical negligence, staffing and insurance matters. The local government team, headed by Peter Ware, is noted for its work in liability litigation – in particular in relation to social care matters. Mark BloisPractice head(s):
Peter Ware; Mark Blois; Gerard Hanratty
Other key lawyers:
Simon Tait; Leanne Wareham; Heather Caddy
Testimonials
‘We have worked with Browne Jacobson for many years and they continue to consistently provide reliable, sound advice and guidance in all legal matters.’
‘The team at Browne Jacobson are easy to get hold of and respond quickly to any queries as well as providing regular concise updates in relation to ongoing cases we have with them. The quality of the work is good and they do all they can to minimise the cost to the public purse.’
‘All the solicitors at Browne Jacobson that I have worked with in the health team are good written and verbal communicators and assist in making legal rulings clear to understand. They have an appropriate sense of humour which is something that I really appreciate when sometimes I feel I am up against it.’
‘They manage to explain the law clearly and effectively, providing calm efficiency in a wide range of situations in the field of Mental Health Legislation, ranging from advice about Mental Health Act papers to navigating the whole Court process from application to decision.’
Key clients
Apollo Partnership Trust
Archway Learning Trust
Believe Academy Trust
Community Inclusive Trust
Department for Education (RPA)
Diocese of Hallam
Diocese of Leeds
Diocese of Nottingham
Diverse Academies Trust
Flying High Trust
Greenwood Academies Trust
Hearts Academy Trust
Humber Education Trust
Lionheart Academies Trust
Loxford School Trust
Nova Education Trust
Our Lady of Lourdes Academy Trust
Spencer Academy Trust
Teaching Regulation Agency
The Mead Educational Trust
Thomas Deacon Education Trust
Transform Trust
Bradford Borough Council
Derby City Council
Derbyshire County Council
East Suffolk Council
Elmbridge District Council
Folkestone and Hythe District Council
East Midlands Development Company (EmDevco)
Kent County Council
London Borough of Croydon
London Borough of Sutton
Nottingham City Council
Nottinghamshire County Council
Oxford City Council
Reigate and Banstead Council
Scape Group Ltd
Shropshire Council
Thanet District Council
Thurrock Council
Watford Borough Council
Derby and Derbyshire CCG
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Dudley Integrated Health and Care NHS Trust
East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust
Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust
Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust
Lincolnshire CCG
Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
NHS England / Improvement
NHS Leicester City CCG on behalf of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) ICS
Northamptonshire ICS
Nottingham and Nottinghamshire CCG
Nottingham CityCare Partnership CIC
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Nottinghamshire ICS
Primary Integrated Community Services Limited
Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust
University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust
University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust
Work highlights
- Advised Yew Tree Primary School on a successful judicial review of the Secretary of State’s decision not to revoke its directive Academy Order.
- Appointed by Derby City Council to advise on the development of a plot on the Infinity Park site in Derby. The site is classified as an enterprise zone and is a key part of the Council’s regeneration plans.
- Advised 15 integrated care systems on how to set up their Integrated Care Boards and governance to enable the ICS to be ready for the new legislation due to come into force on 1 July 2022.
Real estate > Commercial property: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP's well-regarded team of experts work across the full spectrum of commercial property matters. Areas of particular focus firm are developments and regenerations as well as investment and financing work with sector specialisations being in the retail, leisure, logistics, education and healthcare sectors as well as government sector, which includes social housing. The practice is headed by Sarah Parkinson, who specialises in property development projects and the retail sector, and deputy head Barry Sully who has a focus on urban regeneration, mixed-use schemes and joint ventures. ‘Exceptional’ Suki Tonks is experienced in the sale and acquisition of freehold and leasehold properties. The team was joined by Roland Gray, specialist for landlord and tenant matters, in November 2021. Clients highlight the firm’s ‘strong focus on diversity’.Practice head(s):
Sarah Parkinson; Barry Sully
Other key lawyers:
Suki Tonks; Roland Gray
Testimonials
‘Strong focus on diversity. Excellent service from partners.’
‘Suki Tonks is exceptional – commercial, proactive, can be relied upon to progress matters in accordance with their importance.’
‘I was very impressed with how they seamlessly used specialists within the firm to advise on complex issues without any hassle for me as a client. A firm who really want to help and not just earn fees!!’
‘Suki Tonks is a wonderful property lawyer with a great deal of common sense- rare thase days!’
Key clients
LVMH – Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton
Walgreen Boots Alliance (Boots)
DPDgroup
Wilko
Pure Gym
Motorsport Vision Limited
Canal and River Trust
Platform Homes
Longhurst Housing Group
Bridge Farm Group
Westerman Homes
Derbyshire Healthcare Services NHS Trust
Chesterfield Borough Council
Paperchase Products
Work highlights
- Acted for Westerman Homes over the decades helping to build its portfolio, and acted this year for Westerman Homes on the sale of its strategic land portfolio (725 acres across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire) to Peveril Homes and Peveril Securities.
- Acted for Motorsport Vision Limited on the redevelopment of the historic Old Museum at Donington Racetrack and the grant of a new lease to new occupier, Superbikes.
- Acted for Chesterfield BC on the strategic acquisition of The Pavements Shopping Centre in Chesterfield from investment company vendors.
Real estate > Construction Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP acts for a range of local, national and international constructors as well as consultants on national and international construction projects and represents clients in all types of construction claims. The practice has a particular specialism in advice on off-site modular construction with further sector specialisations in education and telecommunications and is adept at advising on PFI schemes and development finance matters. Head of the Nottingham-based construction team Michael Sadler ‘has an excellent practical understanding of construction and buildings which superbly complements his legal skills’. Senior associate Mark Stubbs acts for contractors and developers on both contentious and non-contentious matters and is noted for his ‘exceptional knowledge’.Practice head(s):
Michael Sadler
Other key lawyers:
Mark Stubbs
Testimonials
‘Browne Jacobson’s Construction team works well with other departments within the firm to ensure client needs on a matter are covered appropriately by a multi-disciplinary team, as necessary. The Construction team is technically sound, commercial, on the ball and responsive.’
‘Michael Sadler is very intelligent, intuitive, commercial and thinks outside of the box. He is also decisive and inspires confidence. Michael is a very much a trusted advisor. He has a collaborative approach even where matters are borderline contentious and is good at smoothing over the roughest of cracks. Michael has an excellent practical understanding of construction and buildings which superbly complements his legal skills. He is a pleasure to work with and great at making himself available.’
‘Very precise and timely every time I have contact with them.’
‘All those within the Browne Jacobson team that I’ve dealt with have been extremely capable with a wide range of experience of multitude issues/situations. They make themselves available for any quick/informal queries & deal with all issues in a timely manner. One last important aspect for me is that they never sit-on-the-fence, but instead always offer their guidance/proposals of how we should proceed & the reasons we should proceed in this manner.’
‘I’ve mainly dealt with Mike Sadler and Mark Stubbs. They are both very personable and easy to work with, whilst having an exceptional knowledge that allows them to very quickly understand the issues at play and offer the most appropriate advice on how to proceed. Mike is always my first call when I need expert legal advice.’
Key clients
Bowmer & Kirkland Ltd
Clegg Construction Limited and Clegg Food Limited
Elevate property group
F3 Group
J Coffey Construction Limited
J Tomlinson Limited
J McCann & Co Limited
Keltbray
Lindum Group
Mace Limited
Nottingham Forest Football Club
Rollalong Limited
Sir Robert McAlpine Limited
Wildgoose Construction Limited
Willmott Dixon Construction Limited and Willmott Dixon Interiors Limited
Legendre UK Limited
Covanta
EE Smith Contracts Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Mace Limited on the International Master Service Agreements and preparation of step-downs to three international data centres each with a value in excess of €1bn.
- Advised a large US energy company on purchase of land and development of large aggregates processing facility.
- Advised a developer client on liability for allegedly defective cladding on a recently completed development.
Real estate > Planning and environment Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP provides a ‘first class service‘ to public sector clients, which include governmental bodies, non-departmental public bodies, local authorities, NHS trusts and national parks, as well as corporate clients, advising on all environmental matters they may face. Combined with the planning expertise of the firm, the unit is adept at advising at the intersection of planning and environmental issues, such as environmental impact assessments. Richard Barlow heads the environmental team and advises public sector clients also in the context of judicial review proceedings and risk management issues. Laura Hughes covers both planning and environmental law and has a particular specialism in nature conservation matters and Andrew Hopkin is experienced in environmental cases concerning, among others, pollution, emissions and waste.Practice head(s):
Richard Barlow; Laura Hughes
Other key lawyers:
Andrew Hopkin; Stephen Coult
Testimonials
‘First class service’
Key clients
Wilson Enterprises Ltd
DPD Group UK Ltd
Enva
First State Investments
Thurrock Council
Homes England
The Coal Authority
Boots UK Ltd
Baxi
London Borough of Croydon
Canal & River Trust
Hertfordshire County Council
Platform Housing Ltd
Natural England
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council
Work highlights
- Advised First Sentier Investors on their recent acquisitions of both SSE plc’s stake in the Multifuel Energy-from-Waste joint venture for £995m and the entirety of the Wheelabrator UK Energy-from-Waste business from Macquarie Investments and Real Assets.
- Provided strategic and operational advice to Jigsaw 24 upon their objective to become carbon neutral.
- Advising the south east emergency services to provide a combined response to National Highways concerning the Lower Thames Crossing Development Consent Order.
Real estate > Social housing Tier 1
The growing national practice at Browne Jacobson LLP, which is led from Nottingham by Barry Sully and Gabor Taller, works with a wide range of housing associations and local authorities, as well as advising private sector entities delivering affordable housing. Taller has expertise in social housing development and funding, while Sully has impressive experience of residential development, regeneration projects and major joint ventures. Recent areas of growth for the team have included site acquisitions and work involving shared ownership plot sales, as well as securitisation matters.Practice head(s):
Barry Sully; Gabor Taller
Key clients
Midland Heart
Great Wyte
Platform
EMH Housing and Regeneration Limited
Nottingham Community Housing Association
Longhurst Group
Minster Property Group
Local Space
Metropolitan Thames Valley
Homes England
South Lakeland District Council
Community Housing
North West Leicestershire District Council
Peak Rural Housing
Nottingham City Homes
Tuntum Housing Association
Hibiscus Housing
Nottingham City Homes
Pelham Homes
EMH Care and Support
Work highlights
- Advised Longhurst in relation to its purchase and development of 100 new affordable homes in Witham St Hughes in partnership with Countryside Properties.
- Advised private sector developer Minster Property Group on its partnership with Harborough District Council and Stonewater on the purchase, sale and development of a 70-home new affordable housing development in the village of Lutterworth.
- Advised Local Space on its first £40m charging of affordable homes as part of its £61m private placement with MetLife Investment Management.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1
Displaying ‘top drawer technical knowledge’, Browne Jacobson LLP acts for an impressive roster of retailers, consumer brands and life sciences companies in high profile patent, design and copyright matters and substantial licensing, co-branding and collaboration agreements. Lead partner Selina Hinchliffe specialises in transactional IP and is the primary contact in Nottingham. Integrated as a national practice, the Nottingham group works alongside its colleagues in Birmingham (headed by Mark Daniels ) and London (where national head of IP Declan Cushley is based) on patent, trade mark and copyright infringement disputes.Practice head(s):
Declan Cushley; Mark Daniels
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Top drawer technical knowledge, applied by friendly, likeable and energetic individual team members.’
‘Declan Cushley is an absolute pleasure to work with. Subject matter experts who are completely focused on client needs; responsive and flexible. Hard to beat.’
Key clients
Loughborough University
Clean Power Hydrogen
Bollin Group
GKN Aerospace
King’s College London
Aston Martin Lagonda
Dark Horses Technologies
Greenwood Academies Trust
Brunel University London
University of Hertfordshire
Games Workshop
Ventive Ltd
PZ Cussons
A-Ward Attachments
Goodyear Dunlop
Lotus Cars
Marston’s PLC
Dataglide
PZ Cussons
Bestseller A/S
Work highlights
- Acting for Loughborough University on its development and future exploitation of key know-how and IP linked to elite level sports nutrition and fitness through a unique software platform.
- Advising Clean Power Hydrogen Group Limited (CPH2) on a number of deals to commercialise its core membrane-free electrolyser technology in the production of highly-pure hydrogen, including a 15-year partnership with Northern Ireland Water.
- Advised the shareholders of Dataglide in connection with the sale of the business to Kneip. Dataglide are a software heavy business specialising in process automation and data transformation.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP's preeminent full-service Midlands IT team continues to be a go-to counsel for IT transformational projects across a broad range of sectors, from procurement of hardware and software through to systems integration, fintech and block chain solutions. Kay Chand is the key name in Nottingham; she provides end-to end expertise in the areas of health, insurance, financial institutions and central government.Practice head(s):
Kay Chand
Key clients
Ageas Insurance Limited
Onto
Eurocarparts
Globus Medical Inc
Clean Power Hydrogen
Lotus Cars Limited
UK Power Networks
PZ Cussons Beauty LLP
Greenwood Academies Trust
Mace Limited
Cloud Technology Solutions
NHS England
Crown Prosecution Services
National Audit Office
Kings College London
Impala
Nottingham Ice Arena
Exel technology Group
Work highlights
- Advised CHAS 2013 Limited on a partnership arrangement in respect of an online capability for the ability for members and contractors to create risk assessments and method statements online.
- Advising the National Audit Office on its critical auditing software which will be a cloud based solution implemented through an agile contracting model.
- Acted for the NHS Commissioning Board as part of their Future Services Programme; a disaggregation of their existing services (under the incumbent contract) into separate towers of services.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP works with sporting venue operators, sports clubs, local councils, and sporting bodies on a wide range of work, handling development matters, contract disputes, procurement, regulatory issues and much more. Insurance specialist Kevin Lawson is a key name in Birmingham, while the team includes a number of ‘excellent team players’ in the Nottingham office, including real estate partner Sarah Parkinson and public law specialist Laura Hughes.Practice head(s):
Kevin Lawson
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Without exception, all members of Browne Jacobson’s sports law team I have worked with are excellent team players – they work well with each other and provide the highest level of service to their clients.’
‘I have now worked with Kevin Lawson at Browne Jacobson for a number of years on a number of different cases, including on a particularly difficult and long running sports law case. They are all excellent team players and are a pleasure to work with. The quality of the work they do in the sports law sphere is excellent and they have an exceptionally good relationship with their insurer clients.
‘Kevin Lawson is excellent from a strategic point of view. He always has a laser-like focus on obtaining commercial and pragmatic solutions for his insurers clients who are incredibly loyal as a result.’
‘Kevin Lawson is exceptionally good at considering problems from all angles and values input from all members of his team, associates and counsel alike.’
Key clients
Motorsport Vision Limited
Sherwood Forest Golf Club
East Suffolk Council
UK Sport
Sport England
Hiscox Insurance
Work highlights
- Advised Motorsport Vision Limited on significant redevelopment of premises at Donington Park race track.
- Advised Sherwood Forest Golf Club regarding a potentially significant construction dispute.
- Advised East Suffolk Council in respect of the appointment of a leisure operator to provide key services.
Public sector > Education: schools Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP handles a wide range of educational law matters, working with over 1,300 schools and academies across the UK. Mark BloisPractice head(s):
Mark Blois
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Superb in all respects’
‘Incredibly professional, approachable and knowledgeable workforce. The key difference in working with Browne Jacobson is that they really understand the Education sector and are able to answer questions, provide advice and support that is relevant, relatable and really straight-forward to understand and action.’
‘The Education Practice at Browne Jacobson LLP is deeply impressive and hugely knowledgeable. Browne Jacobson is also committed to diversity. Its won the D&I Initiative of the Year award at the British Legal Awards in 2021. This is the fourth national award that the firm has won for its innovative talent diversity and inclusion programme.’
‘The leaders of the education practice at Browne Jacobson, notably Mark Blois and Nick MacKenzie, are completely committed to the education sector and their moral purpose guides their legal advice and practice.’
‘Wide range of sector knowledge provided by access to a range of partners and associates. Excellent range of products to meet the needs of education sector means access to affordable legal advice and guidance.’
‘The customer liaison is excellent, the partners feel like an extension of the team, they make an effort to ensure that they remain up to date on both our Trusts issues and wider sector issues. Training and seminars are always relevant.’
‘Colleagues are highly accessible to our team, very personable and feel like an extension to our own team. They are knowledgable and efficient, providing great reassurance to our individual schools as well as our central Trust team. There is good transparency and openness of communication in relation to charging and the quality of service we can expect to receive.’
‘We have valued the in-depth knowledge they have not only of our sector, but of our own organisation. They have taken time to get to know people and members of the team are able to work interchangeably on case work because of the ways in which they share information. Good humour, professionalism and efficiency are all hallmarks of the way Browne Jacobson work with us.’
Key clients
Apollo Partnership Trust
Accord Multi-Academy Trust
Achievement Through Collaboration Trust
An Daras Multi Academy Trust
Ansford Academy Trust
Archway Learning Trust
Arthur Terry Learning Partnership
Aspire Education Trust
Bath and North East Somerset Council
Bath and North East Somerset Council
Beckfoot Trust
Believe Academy Trust
Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College
Bournemouth Poole and Christchurch Council
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council
Brigshaw Learning Partnership
Brooke Weston Trust
Brunel University
Castleford Academy Trust
Central RSA Academies Trust
Champion Education Trust
Cheshire Academies Trust
Coast Academies Trust
Colyton Grammar School
Community Inclusive Trust
Consilium Academies
Cornwall Education Learning Trust
Cumbria Education Trust
Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust
Department for Education (RPA)
Diocese of Bristol Academy Trust
Diocese of Hallam
Diocese of Leeds
Diocese of Nottingham
Diocese of Salisbury Multi Academy Trust
Diverse Academies Trust
Dixons Academies Trust
Durrington Multi Academy Trust
E-ACT
Ebor Academies Trust
Education Learning Trust
Elliot Foundation Academies Trust
Exmouth Academy Trust
Falcon Education Academies Trust
Falmouth Multi Academy Trust
Finham Park Multi Academy Trust
Flying High Trust
Forward as one C of E Multi-Academy trust
GLF Schools
GLF Schools
Greater Manchester Learning Trust
Greengate Academy Trust
Greenwood Academies Trust
Hayes School
Hearts Academy Trust
Heathercombe Brake Trust
Heathfield School
Hope Learning Trust York
Horrington Primary School
Humber Education Trust
Iron Mill College
Kernow Learning
Keswick School Multi-Academy Trust
King’s College London
Kings Langley School
Leading Edge Academies Partnership
Learner Engagement and Achievement Partnership MAT
Learning Accord Multi-Academy Trust
Legacy Learning Trust
Leodis Multi-Academy Trust
Lighthouse Schools Partnership
Linwood School
Lion Academy Trust
Lion Academy Trust
Lion Education Trust
Lionheart Academies Trust
Loxford School Trust
North Somerset Council
North West Academies Trust
Northampton Primary Academy Trust
Nova Education Trust
Oak Learning Partnership
Oak Trees Multi-Academy Trust
Optimus Education
Osprey Learning Trust
Our Lady of Lourdes Academy Trust
Outwood Grange Academies Trust
Pembrokeshire College
Preston Primary Academy Trust
Quantock Multi Academy Trust
Raedwald Trust
Ringwood School
Rodillian Multi Academy Trust
Sea View Trust
Severn Foundation
Shaw Education Trust
South Devon College
South Gloucestershire Council
Spencer Academy Trust
SS Simon and Jude C of E Multi Academy Trust
Steyning Grammar School
Swindon Borough Council
Teaching Regulation Agency
The Castle Partnership
The Enquire Learning Trust
The First Federation
The Inspire Multi Academy Trust
The Levels Academy Trust
The Mead Educational Trust
The Sentient Trust
The True Learning Partnership
The Youth Engagement Schools Trust
Thomas Deacon Education Trust
Timberley Academy Trust
Transform Trust
Trewirgie Junior School
Trinity Multi Academy Trust
Twynham Learning
Uffculme Academy Trust
University of Hertfordshire
University of Winchester Academy Trust
Ventrus Limited
Warrington Primary Academies Trust
Warrington Primary Academy Trust
Warwick Independent Schools Foundation
Wessex Learning Trust
West Lakes Multi-Academy Trust
Westcountry Schools Trust
Westfield School
Wimborne Academy Trust
Work highlights
- Advised Oak Learning Partnership, providing representation to Hazel Wood High School in a high-profile and complex inquest opened to investigate the death of a Hazel Wood High School pupil, Shukri Abdi, who tragically drowned in the River Irwell.
- Advised Yew Tree Primary School on a successful judicial review of the Secretary of State’s decision not to revoke its directive Academy Order.
- Advised the Consortium of Outwood Grange Academies Trust, Oasis Community Learning, Harris Federation and Star Academies on all aspects of their bid to create a new Institute of Teaching to provide teachers and school leaders with prestigious training and development throughout their career. This bid was under the DfE’s Teacher Recruitment and Retention Strategy with allocated funding of over £120m anticipated over the lifetime of the project.
Public sector > Healthcare Tier 1
The national health and social care team at Browne Jacobson LLP is particularly renowned for its advice on the creation of integrated care systems and expertise on service reconfiguration and NHS mergers. The team includes experts from five different offices, giving them a strong national presence and a combined wealth of experience in integrated care, social care, insurance, health tech, local government, education and criminal and regulatory law. Team leader Gerard Hanratty is at the forefront of advising the NHS on the development of integrated care systems and health technology innovations. Christian DingwallPractice head(s):
Gerard Hanratty
Other key lawyers:
Christian Dingwall; Charlotte Harpin; Victoria Thourgood
Key clients
NHS England
NHS Resolution
CNA Hardy
MPS
NHS Transformation Unit
East London NHS FT
Mid & South Essex NHS FT
Essex Partnership University NHS FT
North East London NHS FT
North East London CCG
Work highlights
- Representing and defending NHS England from a judicial review which attempted to get the National Framework on Continuing Healthcare declared unlawful in part and argued all decisions which had led to a refusal of CHC should be retaken. As CHC is an annual c.£4billion cost then the potential consequences were very significant.
- Advising the Welsh Government Primary Care Health Division on their reform of the provision of primary care health services in Wales. This has included the development of, and drafting provisions for, replacement secondary legislation (and related contractual provisions) for General Medical, Dental and Ophthalmic contractors and associated Directions to Local Health Boards in respect of practitioner contracts and remuneration.
- Instructed by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT), following a competitive tender, to represent them during the Government ordered Independent Inquiry into Mental Health Deaths in Essex from 2000 to 2020. The Inquiry is chaired by Dr Geraldine Strathdee and is anticipated to last several years.
Public sector > Local government Tier 1
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s local government team offers a broad range of services to local government clients, including corporate, regulatory, health and safety, data protection, real estate and tax. The firm also has a significant presence in the local authority housing and regeneration market, working on the two billion pound Central Winchester Regeneration project. Members of the team are involved in high profile, complex procurements and have strong credential in energy and sustainability. Peter Ware heads up the government sector of the firm with a particular specialism in commercial and procurement matters pertaining to local government. Consultant Stephen MatthewPractice head(s):
Peter Ware
Other key lawyers:
Ros Foster; Stephen Matthew; Anja Beriro; Craig Elder; Richard Barlow
Testimonials
‘The practice delivers on the promise of a well rounded team, mixing experience at different levels of tenure and over different specialties. They are able to bring to the team the scope to provide advice over significant project areas.’
‘Very approachable, able to deal with officers within a council at different experience levels – CEO, senior officers and junior in professional and not condescending way. They come over as authoritative.’
Key clients
Folkstone and Hythe District Council
Kent County Council
London Borough of Croydon
London Borough of Ealing
Watford Borough Council
Winchester City Council
Otterpool Park LLP
Chichester District Council
Surrey Heath Borough Council
Harlow District Council
Local Partnerships LLP
Barking & Dagenham Trading Partnerships
Herefordshire Council
London Borough of Enfield
London Borough of Tower Hamlets
London Borough of Sutton
Rushmoor Borough Council
West Sussex Property Development LLP
South London Waste Partnership
Elmbridge Borough Council
London Borough of Havering
City of Lincoln Council
London Borough of Bromley
Work highlights
- Advising Winchester City Council in relation to the £150m Central Winchester Regeneration – an important mixed-use scheme covering 3.688 acres in the centre of Winchester.
- Acted for the London Borough of Croydon (the Council) in a judicial review challenge to an alleged failure to provide suitable accommodation for a claimant with complex medical and housing needs in performance of the Council’s main housing duty under s.193 of the Housing Act 1996.
- Continue to act for the Council on Otterpool Park, a flagship Garden Town project with an estimated gross development value of £2.8bn. This proposed new garden town in East Kent, to be developed on a 770 hectare site adjacent to the M20, has the long term potential to deliver up to 10,000 new homes, plus employment space that could support up to 8,000 jobs.
Public sector > Education Tier 1
The team at Browne Jacobson LLP in Manchester offers education clients a broad skillset, covering governance issues, strategic advice, employment matters and everyday safeguarding issues. Special educational needs is also a growing area of their work. Innovative solutions tailored to client’s needs include an education specific free-access platform containing advice, guidance and model documents to deal with challenges brought on by the pandemic. Practice head Dai Durbridge is a highly regarded education expert with specialisms in safeguarding and data protection while Ian Deakin is an experienced employment lawyer. Tom Briant-Evans joined as senior associate in March 2021 from Michelmores LLP bringing in a wealth of expertise on multi-academy trusts governance.Practice head(s):
Dai Durbridge
Other key lawyers:
Ian Deakin; Tom Briant-Evans; Eleanor Drabble
Testimonials
‘The good thing about working with Browne Jacobson is that it never really matters which member of the team you are working with. Every colleague is exceptional. There is never any variation from the highest possible standards and there is such a wide range of experience that you are always working with an expert.’
‘The key people our team works with are Dai Durbridge, Eleanor Drabble and Tom Briant-Evans. They are all incredibly professional, offering high quality advice and support with very fast turnaround times.’
‘The team in the North West are not only incredibly knowledgeable and instil confidence when seeking advice, but they are also practical and have a firm understanding of the education sector. Their advice is well structured, demonstrates an understanding of the impact upon the work environment and is always delivered in a friendly, timely yet professional manner.’
‘The HR and Legal team at Browne Jacobson are extremely dedicated and supportive and never fail to provide us with sound advice. They respond quickly and will always provide back up information to support any questions. We use the MATPP service where a dedicated team who have a wide range of knowledge are available to contact. I find that they respond quickly and generous with their time and knowledge and will always refer on any questions they cannot answer initially to another colleague. They demonstrate strong collaboration across the HR and legal teams, provide us with legal and best practice guidance and excellent courses, webinars and document templates. Our MAT is enriched by their knowledge, expertise and service.’
‘We have been really pleased with the speed of service and professional advice we have received. Strong relationships and trust in the service are a strength of the practice. We have been able to liaise with experts on complex issues. We have procured several engaging and bespoke training sessions for our trust employees. We have also used Browne Jacobson for converting academies to our trust, which has been successful, even when the conversion was complex, e.g. land ownership.’
‘Broad skillset. Rapid, clear, concise advice. Generous time allocation to issues.’
‘Excellent support from Browne Jacobson. Their extensive knowledge of the education sector gives our organisation peace of mind regarding all legal aspects. Whenever I have contracted the firm I always receive a timely response and partners and associates are always available to talk through any queries and concerns.’
‘The key for the individuals who work for the company is that they have a deep understanding of the ears of law that affect the education sector, Dai Durbridge is our partner and he bring the clarity in the areas of law he is proficient in to bar on the advice provided, but brings in specialist as and when needed.’
Key clients
Accord Multi-Academy Trust
Achievement Through Collaboration Trust
Aspire Education Trust
Beckfoot Trust
Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College
Brigshaw Learning Partnership
Castleford Academy Trust
Champion Education Trust
Cheshire Academies Trust
Consilium Academies
Cumbria Education Trust
Dixons Academies Trust
E-ACT
Ebor Academies Trust
Education Learning Trust
Forward as one C of E Multi-Academy trust
Greater Manchester Learning Trust
Hope Learning Trust York
Keswick School Multi-Academy Trust
Learner Engagement and Achievement Partnership MAT
Learning Accord Multi-Academy Trust
Legacy Learning Trust
Leodis Multi-Academy Trust
North West Academies Trust
Oak Learning Partnership
Oak Trees Multi-Academy Trust
Optimus Education
Pembrokeshire College
Rodillian Multi Academy Trust
Sea View Trust
SS Simon and Jude C of E Multi Academy Trust
The Enquire Learning Trust
The True Learning Partnership
Trinity Multi Academy Trust
Warrington Primary Academies Trust
West Lakes Multi-Academy Trust
Work highlights
- Acted for various schools and academy trusts on numerous complex academy projects, including re-brokerages, trust-to-trust transfers and conversion to academy status, dealing with the governance, property and employment issue and supporting our clients with onboarding the new academy(ies).
- Supporting education clients with all of their legal advice needs, including admissions, exclusions, SEN, disability discrimination, safeguarding, GDPR/data protection, governance, employment and HR issues, commercial disputes and intellectual property advice.
- Creating and delivering a range of innovative and engaging training courses for various schools and academy trusts to support the personal and professional development of clients’ people. Courses for specialist roles such as data protection officers, designated safeguarding leads, and people managers supplement courses for wider groups such as governors and all staff. Additional offer of EduCompli- online staff training packages.
Public sector > Health Tier 1
The team at Browne Jacobson LLP is a standout name for providing health-related advice to a national NHS client base as well as major private healthcare providers. Areas of expertise include mental health, governance and social care. Practice co-head Gerard Hanratty is at the forefront of advising NHS clients on issues such as service reconfiguration projects and Covid-19 response measures while co-head Christian DingwallPractice head(s):
Gerard Hanratty; Christian Dingwall
Other key lawyers:
Amanda Callaghan; Victoria Thourgood; Heather Caddy
Testimonials
‘Breadth of expertise is impressive and extremely helpful for multi-faceted legal issues. This also provides the Trust with the assurance of having one place to go to for the full range of areas of law we encounter. The size of the firm also means that urgent instructions can be picked up and dealt with quickly, which has been particularly useful recently when we received last minute notice of a hearing about a complex issue.’
‘Considerable experience and expertise in healthcare governance.’
‘They are willing to work with us to find the right solution, not just offer advice. They know when to pick up the phone to better understand an issue and when to provide formal documented advice.’
Key clients
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
Stockport NHS FT
Pennine Care NHS FT
Manchester University Hospitals NHS FT
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
North West Ambulance NHS Trust
The Priory Group
NHS England
CNA Hardy
Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Trust
Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust
NHS Transformation Unit
Dudley Integrated Health and Care NHS Trust
Work highlights
- Application on behalf of the Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to intervene under the Inherent Jurisdiction in ongoing child proceedings.
- Advising all 10 CCGs across Greater Manchester (GM) on the closedown of CCGs and transition to the new Integrated Care Board (ICB).
Public sector > Education Tier 1
The ‘reliable and up-to-date‘ education team at Browne Jacobson LLP advises the whole gamut of sector organisations, with a particular focus on higher education institutions. Practice head Julia Green sports a ‘great wealth of experience, excellent judgement’ and a specialisation in academy conversions. Bettina Rigg, who is regularly consulted for equality, diversity as well as inclusion and discrimination claims, is praised for her ‘practical‘ advice and ‘strategic approach’. Academy projects, governance, and student related matters are handled by senior associate Victoria Hatton.Practice head(s):
Julia Green
Other key lawyers:
Bettina Rigg; Victoria Hatton; Daniella Glynn
Testimonials
‘It is a local practice but is a national firm. It ensures that you get that local knowledge and continuity of people however they have the backdrop of all the expertise within the firm.’
‘Julie Green and Rachel Billen as partners provide support that is first-class.’
‘Sector specific knowledge, wide range of specialists coupled with local client relationship manager.’
‘Knowledgable advisors who take the time to understand how our organisation works. Julia Green and Victoria Hatton specifically have built positive working relationships.’
‘The Browne Jacobson Education team are knowledgable, flexible and respond promptly to any queries or concerns we may have. Whilst we have a named contact, the company has sufficient resources to draw in others as required, particularly where different expertise may be required.’
‘They are experts in their field. The team have a range of specialisms and there is always someone who can advise you. They have good working relationships with unions and other organisations.’
‘We are extremely happy with the service they provide, and as a result have built excellent relationships with the team.’
‘The Education partner – Julia Green – is exceptional. She has a great wealth of experience, excellent judgement and deals with a great many of our matters personally.’
Key clients
An Daras Multi Academy Trust
Ansford Academy Trust
Bath and North East Somerset Council
Bournemouth Poole and Christchurch Council
Brunel University
Central RSA Academies Trust
Coast Academies Trust
Colyton Grammar School
Cornwall Education Learning Trust
Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust
Diocese of Bristol Academy Trust
Diocese of Salisbury Multi Academy Trust
Durrington Multi Academy Trust
Exmouth Academy Trust
Falmouth Multi Academy Trust
Finham Park Multi Academy Trust
GLF Schools
Greengate Academy Trust
Hayes School
Heathercombe Brake Trust
Heathfield School
Horrington Primary School
Iron Mill College
Kernow Learning
Kings Langley School
Leading Edge Academies Partnership
Lighthouse Schools Partnership
Linwood School
Lion Academy Trust
Lion Education Trust
North Somerset Council
Osprey Learning Trust
Preston Primary Academy Trust
Quantock Multi Academy Trust
Raedwald Trust
Ringwood School
Severn Foundation
South Devon College
South Gloucestershire Council
Steyning Grammar School
Swindon Borough Council
The Castle Partnership
The First Federation
The Inspire Multi Academy Trust
The Levels Academy Trust
The Sentient Trust
The Youth Engagement Schools Trust
Timberley Academy Trust
Trewirgie Junior School
Twynham Learning
Uffculme Academy Trust
University of Winchester Academy Trust
Ventrus Limited
Warrington Primary Academy Trust
Wessex Learning Trust
Westcountry Schools Trust
Westfield School
Wimborne Academy Trust
Work highlights
- Supported over 70 clients prepare for, manage and respond to any related challenges to the Government-enforced teacher assessed grades arrangements in the absence of public exams in 2021.
- Continue to act on a case at the intersection between the freedom to manifest religious belief and the protection of those who are gay or transgender and to date successfully defended claims of unfair dismissal and discrimination brought by a claimant, who had made concerning comments on social media.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Birmingham Tier 2
Regularly attracting wider market acclaim for its capabilities in corporate and commercial dealings, Browne Jacobson LLP is sought out by a number of corporations, venture capitalists, and private equity firms seeking assistance in cross-border transactions. Tech and VC specialist Mike Jackson works across a number of sectors on fundraisings, acquisitions, and exits, most recently for clients in automotive manufacturing and clean energy production. Richard Nicholas helms the team’s commercial offering, working with an array of in-house counsel – particularly in the tech and data space – on the full gamut of technical and contractual concerns. Gareth Davies runs the West Midlands private equity desk, advising a diverse roster of mid-market funds and PE-backed SME portfolio companies, while Clare Auty ’s expertise in the UK health market ensures that she is regularly instructed by companies and asset managers on inbound investment transactions. Senior associate Kirk Glenn, who focuses on high-value energy deals, and senior associate Clare Hanna, an SME and FSI specialist, are also standouts. All named lawyers are based in Birmingham.Practice head(s):
Clare Auty
Other key lawyers:
Mike Jackson; Richard Nicholas; Gareth Davies; Kirk Glenn; Clare Hanna
Key clients
PZ Cussons Beauty LLP
John Smedley Ltd
Q Holding Company t/a Q Medical Devices
DPD Group UK Ltd
Lotus Cars Ltd
Iconic London (Holdings) Ltd
QMS Holdings Ltd t/a QMS Medicosmetics
National Car Parks
King’s College London
The National Trust
JaxJox Inc
Impala Travel Technology
Luxury Cottages
PBE Group
Biosite Systems Limited
Aceleron Limited
Palatine Private Equity
Apiary Capital LLP
Sodexo
Weight Partners Capital
Globus Medical Inc
Work highlights
- Advised Slick Stitch on its provision of tailored garments to Marks & Spencer plc.
- Advised Wissmatec on it’s branding arrangements and supply of sushi to Iceland stores.
- Advised a leading hotel and travel aggregator site on its arrangements with hotels, travel companies and consumers.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 2
Helmed by dual-qualified chartered tax advisor and solicitor Andrew Noble , Browne Jacobson LLP‘s collaborative tax team is routinely engaged by various local authorities, private equity houses, and businesses seeking assistance regarding transactional and structuring matters. Nottingham-based legal director Beth Dowson focuses on property tax, employee share schemes, and corporate deals, including vendor tax planning issues. Senior associate Rebecca Burge is sought out by blue-chip MNCs for her expertise in stamp duty land tax. All named lawyers are based in Birmingham unless stated otherwise.
Practice head(s):
Andrew Noble
Other key lawyers:
Beth Dowson; Rebecca Burge
Key clients
Douglas Gill International Limited
Cooper Software Ltd
Apiary Capital LLP
Chesterfield Borough Council
London Borough of Sutton
Oxford City Council
enX Group Limited
Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Ltd
Weight Partners Capital
Construction Testing Solutions Group
Work highlights
- Advised the Myers Family Office, on its purchase of Vian Marketing.
- Advised Chesterfield Borough Council on tax aspects of its acquisition of the Pavements Shopping Centre back from private sector ownership.
- Acted for the Johannesburg Stock Exchange listed enX Group Limited on the tax (and UK disclosure) aspects of the sale of its UK forklift and container handling equipment business to French group Monnoyeur.
Employment Tier 2
The experienced team at Browne Jacobson LLP advises on the full array of public and private sector employment matters with particular strength in health and care. The practice remains under the leadership of James Tait and Jacqui Atkinson and routinely handles complex employment tribunal litigation and employee relations issues and has also advised on various whistleblowing investigations, doctor disciplinary cases and employee governance issues in the NHS. Further areas of expertise include the education sector as well as the automotive, retail, food and drink arenas. Helen Badger is well-regarded.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very agile in collaboration with us, extremely flexible and speed of response is always excellent. James Tait is very clear, provides straight forward advice and guidance on all employment topics. James strikes a good balance between risk awareness and commercial savviness which works really well in a commercial operation. Knowledge of our business helps the engagement‘.
‘The team gets us and has a good understanding of the context in which we operate as an organisation. They fully understand our risk appetite. Billing is never an issue and you always feel like you have value for money unlike some others in the market‘.
‘Helen Badger particularly is exceptional and has a clear grasp of the issues of any matter we’re seeking to deal with and holds the confidence of senior stakeholders with concise, clear and to the point advice. Helen is available at short notice. The firm has talented junior colleagues who inspire confidence and give great advice. Alex Berkshire stands out in this regard‘.
Key clients
NHS Birmingham and Solihull CCG
TT Electronics Plc
Bureau Veritas UK Ltd
Wolverhampton City Council
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
Hiscox
East Midlands Ambulance NHS Trust
Not On The High Street
British Association of Social Workers
South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Work highlights
Employment > Health and safety Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP acts for many private sector organisations in relation to their health and safety accidents and fatal accidents. It is skilled at advising on issues that arise from food safety, environmental, the care sector and road traffic work. The team also advises a significant number of public sector clients and entities in the education and health sectors. Rachel Lyne has a wide range of experience on various regulatory matters and routinely covers investigations and enforcement actions. Lyne also demonstrates a reputable public inquiries, inquest and internal investigations practice.Practice head(s):
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team contains individuals who complement each other’s strengths. This is very important as clients get the right people at the right level for a case or a particular matter. This is highly beneficial in large or complex cases and ensures that the firm allocates appropriate resources at all stages and helps manage client expectations around getting the work done at an appropriate fee. The main team is supported by highly competent legal and non-legal staff’.
‘Rachel Lyne – highly experienced across a broad range of health and safety matters. Is extremely good at dealing with clients, both corporate and individual, and explaining complex matters in a way that simplifies what they mean for the client and their business. Brings a solution-focused strategic approach to all her work’.
‘I have always found the staff at Browne Jacobson friendly and helpful. My main contact is with the regulatory team, they are knowledgeable and approachable in what is usually a stressful situation. I have always found Rachel Lyne to be not only professional but able to explain in plain language the process and her advice. This is always useful when I have to take the message back to senior management who probably do not have the level of knowledge or experience in a particular field’.
‘The initial meeting with the senior partner and the contact solicitor was timely and the terms of how the case should progress was outlined clearly, and written advice was provided. Dealings were conducted through the solicitor, Luke Deal, who kept himself available through all stages of the case. Appropriate advice was given, where necessary. Equally, when advice was questioned, he took specific points on board and adapted the advice to reflect the position of the client’.
‘I know Rachel Lyne and Luke Deal very well and have co-defended with them on many occasions. They are extremely competent solicitors and demonstrate great technical ability and client care in all cases. Rachel Lyne is always great to work with. She robustly looks after her client’s interests but it a pleasure to work with’.
Key clients
Hiscox/Hockey England
Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service
Work highlights
Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy, project finance and PFI Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP is well known in the Midlands for its capabilities with regards to power generation, renewables, energy-from-waste and energy disputes. The team is led by Paul Hill , who is a specialist in infrastructure transactions, private equity and general corporate lending. He is supported by venture capital specialist Mike Jackson and senior associate Nick Smee .Practice head(s):
Paul Hill
Other key lawyers:
Mike Jackson; Nick Smee
Key clients
First Sentier Investors
Enfinium
Covanta
British Gas
Oxford City Council
South London Waste Partnership
Onto
Aceleron
PBE Group
H2Go Power
nmcn plc
Homes England
Argent Energy
The Aurora Group
Care Fertility
Work highlights
- Advised First Sentier Investors on two significant acquisitions in the energy-from-waste sector: the acquisition of SSE’s 50% stake in the Multi-fuel Energy Joint Venture for £995m; and the agreement to acquire Enfinium (then Wheelabrator U.K) from waste management company Wheelabrator Technologies Inc., an entity owned by Macquarie.
- Advising Oxford City Council on its Electric Vehicle charging Superhub project.
- Advised the PBE Group both on its successful acquisition of Advanced Diesel Engineering (ADE) – a leading UK manufacturer and supplier of generators and critical power solutions for an undisclosed sum – and a cross border holdco corporate financing and refinancing.
Public sector > Health Tier 2
With a nationwide presence, Browne Jacobson LLP helps a wide selection of private and pubic sector clients on issues relating to complex inquests, corporate mergers and whistleblowing allegations. Jacqui Atkinson leads the team and continues to advise NHS organisations and trust boards. Gerard Hanratty is at the forefront of advising the health sector on major service reconfiguration projects, Covid-19 responses and public law. Sarah White specialises in defending substantial clinical negligence claims, as well as health law and risk management advice.Practice head(s):
Gerard Hanratty; Jacqui Atkinson
Other key lawyers:
Jonathan Hayden; Helen Badger; Clare Auty; Paul Wainwright; Jonathan Fuggle
Testimonials
‘The team brings a range and depth of knowledge and skills that has enabled us to deliver innovative change.’
‘They have a clear ability to consider a range of options and provide high quality advice in relation to the risks associated with those.’
Key clients
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust
East Midlands Ambulance Service
NHS England
NHS Leicester & Rutland CCGs
Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT)
University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust and Leicester City CCG
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Welsh Government Primary Care Health Division
An Acute NHS Trust and a Mental health Trust
University Hospitals of North Midlands
Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust
Cornwall LA
Towerview Care Ltd
Work highlights
- Provided advice on the establishment of the NHS Nightingale Hospital Birmingham and two other Nightingale Hospitals across the country. This was an emergency response with members of the team working day and night to support our clients.
- Acted for NHS England in respect of a judicial review challenge brought by the British Medical Association in respect of the Local Safeguarding Arrangements Plan 2019-21 published by the safeguarding partners in Northamptonshire. The BMA’s objective in bringing this test case was to secure a ruling that GPs should be paid for safeguarding work.
- Advising the whole of the Sustainability and Transformation Partnership (STP) on the reconfiguration of services across the community and acute sector. This is one of the biggest service reconfigurations going on in the NHS.
Public sector > Local government Tier 2
The government, regulatory and advocacy team at Browne Jacobson LLP advises local authorities on a range of contentious and non-contentious issues, including property investments, regeneration, estate management, environmental issues and judicial review. Thomas Howard runs the firm's local authority investment practice, while Zo Hoida focuses on development within the public sector. Ben Standing is another important name, specialising in planning matters and local government matters.Practice head(s):
Ben Standing; Zo Hoida; Thomas Howard
Other key lawyers:
Victoria Searle
Testimonials
‘The public sector team has a wealth of knowledge coupled with practical know how. The are available to talk issues through as well as for specific pieces of advice.’
‘I have worked closely with Peter Ware on projects. Peter is careful to listen and understand viewpoints and issues impacting the respective authorities and factor these into his advice.’
‘Nothing is too much of problem. We don\’t have to chase as we know the matters are in hand. The responses are always spot on and appreciate the strategic imperative in relation to legal options available.’
‘We know Ben Standing as Ben (Out)standing for the exemplary service he provides, automatically reaching for relevant case law to set out our options for perusal.’
Key clients
Thurrock Council
Buckinghamshire Council
Oxford City Council
Telford & Wrekin Council
London Borough of Sutton
London Borough of Croydon
Shropshire Council
South Cambridgeshire District Council
Staffordshire Moorlands District Council
Coventry City Council
Work highlights
- Advising Thurrock Council on response to the Development Consent Order for Lower Thames Crossing which is an approximately £8bn new tunnel and highway project.
- Advising Flintshire County Council and the Welsh Local Government Association in connection with the updating of the model constitution for Wales and the new plain language guide required by the Local Government and Elections (Wales) Act 2021.
- The acquisition of St Nicholas Shopping Centre for £26m.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2
Bolstered by a large national team, Browne Jacobson LLP have a long track record of working on critical, large-scale IT transactions as part of their expertise in digital transformation. The technology team has a strong practice in both the private and public sectors, working on fintech projects, disruptive technologies and outsourcing transactions for start-ups. Team leader Richard Nicholas focuses on technology and outsourcing deals, cloud computing and digital law.Practice head(s):
Richard Nicholas
Other key lawyers:
Joe Davis
Testimonials
‘The Team is commercial and pragmatic’
‘Richard Nicholas is a very strong commercial and pragmatic lawyer with excellent data privacy expertise’
Key clients
NTT Data
Euro Car Parts
Digital Catapult
Cloud Technology Solutions
Greenwood Academies Trust
Peterborough City Council
The National Trust
Clearwater International
The Medicines and Healthcare Regulatory Authority
Kings College London
Impala
Flydocs
CET
Mace Limited
Work highlights
- Advising on contracts with universities, companies retailers and public sector bodies.
- Advised the trust on a number of large scale outsourcing projects involving multiple bidders and the completion of various changes over the course of the year. This is a digital transformation project that is core to the growth of the Trust’s business
- Advised the Medicines Healthcare Regulatory Agency on its contract for new IT services including the procurement, employment and IT aspects of a business critical IT outsourcing.
Employment Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP has seen increased demand for its employment advisory from public and private sector clients, including appointment to the Crown Commercial Service’s General Legal Advice Services panel and a new appointment for employment for Platform Housing Group. Its lead partners, Peter Jones and Kerren Daly advise on a wealth of issues, ranging from terminations, trade unions to TUPE and employment tribunal cases.Practice head(s):
Peter Jones
Other key lawyers:
Kerren Daly
Testimonials
‘Browne Jacobson provides a commercial approach to resolving people issues. They are financially astute and very customer focused.’
‘Kerren Daley (Partner) stands out because she uses her legal knowledge in a very commercial and practical way when advising. Her practical approach is great when wanting to bounce around different options and risks associated with each one. She is a brilliant legal practitioner with additional commerciality.’
‘The individuals I have dealt with at Browne Jacobson have proven to be highly professional in approach, providing ongoing support and building excellent relationships with members of the HR team. The legal advice we have received from all members of the Employment Law has been excellent and has enabled us to successfully address a number of employment law and pension issues.’
Key clients
Hiscox
Kerry Logistics
Vue Cinemas
Various Academies
Crown Commercial Services
Ego Restaurants
East Midlands Ambulance NHS Trust
South Derbyshire College
Transalliance
EM Lawshare
Work highlights
- Successfully defended Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service in a claim of constructive unfair dismissal alongside allegations of victimisation.
- Acting on a significant and dedicated outsourced claims handling service on behalf of Hiscox relating to EPLI insured employment claims covered by Hiscox on behalf of their policy holders and act as panel solicitors for England in relation to Hiscox insured claims.
- Represented the University of Brighton Academies Trust in respect of a claim for unfair dismissal and whistleblowing by a former senior teacher following a restructure of the Trust’s senior leadership team which led to the redundancy of the Claimant’s role.
Private client > Agriculture and estates Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP has recently expanded its inheritance tax, agricultural estate and succession planning capabilities with the hire of partner Imogen Holmes from Wilkin Chapman LLP in June 2021, in addition to a number of experienced associate arrivals. Robert Wofinden deals with property development and strategic land transactions, while Lucy Worwood, head of the private client unit, focuses on tax, estate and succession planning.Practice head(s):
Robert Wofinden; Lucy Worwood
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Great practice with stand out individuals.’
‘Rob Wofenden stands out as a great solicitor with great communication skills and a willingness to go above and beyond.’
Key clients
Canal and River Trust
Coal Authority
Covanta Energy Limited
Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust
Aggregate Industries UK Limited
The National Trust
Environment Agency
Natural England
Homes England
Peak District National Park Authority
Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust
Natural Resources Body for Wales
British Trust for Ornithology
Welsh Government
Northern Ireland Ombudsman
Marine Management Organisation [Environment]
Belvoir Estate
Work highlights
- Acted on the refinance of the lending for the Bridge Farm Group.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP acts for a range of clients from various sectors, including central government, local authorities, healthcare bodies, insurance providers, landowners and developers, on all types of real estate related litigation. The team acts in both commercial and residential landlord and tenant disputes, development and land disputes, and further property claims, such as those relating to boundaries, rights of way and lights, rights of access and restrictive covenants. Birmingham-based James Coles is the national head of the real estate disputes team and provides ‘very good, clear and practical advice‘ to large national and international clients from the retail, logistics and healthcare sectors, among others.Practice head(s):
James Coles
Other key lawyers:
Claire Burns
Testimonials
‘The understanding of our business requirements and the proactive approach we receive daily is second to none. The attention to detail, explanations and summaries are on point and very relevant and saves me such a lot of time as I fully understand everything.’
‘Claire Burns is my main contact in the Nottingham office and she is excellent in every transaction we instruct her upon. I cannot fault in any way her work ethic, her knowledge base is outstanding and her dedication to us as a client to ensure we get the best possible service and outcome is amazing. I could not envisage dealing with anyone better as her counterparts on the transactions always seem to be failing in my opinion.’
‘As expected – efficient.’
‘James Coles has proved easily contactable and provided very good, clear and practical advice with regards to our litigation matter. James has been clear and upfront with costs, also minimising costs where appropriate and possible. I personally appreciate the high level of communication and his ability to offer good, sound based opinion that is proving to be successful for our outcome.’
Key clients
Co-operative Bank plc
Vision Express Ltd
Benchmark Drinks Ltd
Pure Gym Limited
Paperchase Products Limited
Walgreens Boots Alliance
DPD Group UK Limited
Aggregate Industries UK Limited
AGCO Limited
Scrivens Limited
Cheshire East Borough Council
Select Service Partner (UK) Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Boots on contentious issues with their new flagship London store.
- Provided strategic advising to Pure Gym on covid related issues impacting the business.
- Advised Harlow District Council on complex restrictive covenant dispute.
Dispute resolution > Professional discipline Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s ‘dynamic, responsive, client-centred team‘ represents several leading public and third sector regulatory bodies in the UK. The national practice acts across a range of disciplinary and regulatory matters, including disciplinary investigations, presentation of matters before professional conduct panels, and acting as legal adviser to statutory committees. Other areas of expertise include conducting matters before the High Court and Court of Appeal, and the First Tier and Upper Tribunals. Nottingham-based Fiona Butler is client partner for the firm’s significant regulatory client, the TRA; Ros FosterPractice head(s):
Fiona Butler; Ros Foster
Other key lawyers:
Ben Bentley; Samantha Paxman; Ian Perkins
Testimonials
‘Knowledgable in this area of work and the support is second to none.’
‘Great to work with and I trust them to do the job I ask of them. The meetings are well organised and communication is excellent.’
‘All members of the firm’s teams (at every level) demonstrate professionalism and extensive knowledge of their subject matters, and they are always responsive to our needs.’
‘Responsive and flexible to our needs, both in routine and emergency situations.’
‘Dynamic, responsive, client-centred team.’
‘Fantastic professionals with highly skilled and dedicated support.’
‘Ros Foster is an outstanding expert on Fitness to Practise law. She is also strongly committed to us as a client, and provides clear, detailed, timely advice, often in urgent circumstances. She has strong relationships with the counsel in this area, and provides the level of service where, as a client, I don’t have to worry.’
‘Ros Foster is outstanding because of her expertise and enthusiasm – good-quality knowledge and advice from both Fiona Butler and Ben Bentley.’
Key clients
The Teaching Regulation Agency
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
The Professional Standards Authority for Health & Social Care
The Human Fertilisation & Embryology Authority
NHS England
The Pensions Regulator
The Care Quality Commission
The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority
The Chartered Institute of Building
Qualification Wales
The Medical Protection Society
Royal Institute of British Architects
Work highlights
- Prosecuting cases for the Teaching Regulation Agency of teacher misconduct, involving breaches of fundamental British values, links to terror-related activity, and freedom of speech in professional settings.
- Newly appointed in 2021 by the Medical Protection Society to act on behalf of clinical practitioners in the defence of disciplinary proceedings before the General Medical Council, and the Nursing and Midwifery Council.
- Acted for the PSA since August 2014 in a series of referrals (to the High Court and the Court of Appeal) of fitness to practise decisions of the health and social care regulators.
Employment > Health and safety Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP provides assistance regarding health and safety accidents and incidents, as well as advising on food, environmental, and road traffic matters. The team has dealt with complex investigations, inquiries, and inquests and has niche expertise regarding risks involving legionella and asbestos, as well as corporate manslaughter and CQC inspections. Practice head Helen Simm is noted for advising clients regarding investigations by the HSE. Charlotte Butler made associate in March 2021.Practice head(s):
Helen Simm
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Helen Simm is excellent – she is good with clients and knows the practice area well.’
‘Very good team of which Helen Simm is a key player. She is an excellent lawyer who combines great skill with fantastic client care skills.’
‘Helen Simm is a delight to work for: attentive to her clients and supportive of her counsel.’
‘The wide in-house services they have and relevant experience they offer on health & safety matters stand out.’
‘The experience handling similar cases was clearly demonstrated. The attention to detail and getting to understand the specifics of case along with understanding the wider business of ours, the organisation, reputation, recognition to help put the H&S case in to context of a one off incident, in a well-managed business to avoid any negative perception.’
Key clients
NHS England
Work highlights
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP’s health advisory and litigation team handles clinical negligence claims for NHS Resolution, Medical Protection Society, independent healthcare providers and medical malpractice insurers. The practice has specialisms in obstetrics, GP indemnity, mental health, emergency and ambulance, spinal and dental matters. Amanda Callaghan heads up the Manchester office, offering extensive experience in the healthcare advisory and claims field. Sarah Manning supervises teams of clinical negligence lawyers based across the Midlands and Manchester offices, while recently promoted partner Louise Jackson leads the team representing dental practitioners and orthodontics specialists; she has of late been acting head of clinical negligence.Practice head(s):
Amanda Callaghan; Sarah Manning; Louise Jackson
Other key lawyers:
Bethan Parry
Testimonials
‘Their experience in defending these claims is unrivalled.’
‘Louise Jackson – tactically astute, misses nothing, fights hard for her clients.’
‘Louise Jackson is a first rate senior associate.’
‘Louise Jackson is an excellent solicitor.’
‘Bethan Parry has recently joined the team from an extensive claimant background. Her attention to detail and communication skills are outstanding.’
Key clients
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Trust
Stockport NHS FT
Manchester Mental Health NHS FT
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
The Christie NHS FT
North West Ambulance Trust NHS Trust
Medical Protection Society
Dental Protection Limited
NHS Resolution
Work highlights
- Obtained a finding of fundamental dishonesty against a playboy glamour model and an award for costs pursuant to CPR 44.16 (1) in excess of £100,000. The claimant’s appeal failed in March 2021 and the defendant was awarded additional costs.
- Defended three separate money claims issued against our client’s member GPs and the practice manager by a former disgruntled patient.
Public sector > Local government Tier 2
The practice at Browne Jacobson LLP covers a range of matters for local authority clients including waste collection and disposal matters, infrastructure projects and procurement processes. Michael Mousdale is at the head of the team, with expertise in local government and public procurement. Peter Ware specialises in local authority commercial matters and infrastructure. Alex Kynoch has strong state aid, public procurement, and projects practice with a focus on district heating projects.Practice head(s):
Michael Mousdale
Other key lawyers:
Peter Ware; Alex Kynoch
Testimonials
‘I have found Browne Jacobson very practical with their advice. They are up to date with developments in public procurement and always give very comprehensive, pragmatic and credible support.’
‘Mike Mousdale is exceptional and an authority on procurement and local government support. He has a detailed understanding of legislation and can explain matters in simple and practical language.’
‘Michael Mousdale led on the matter with support from others. Michael is responsive and available on the telephone or Teams without delay and understood the nuances of challenges of local government and the politics in this Local Authority.’
Key clients
Oxford City Council
Manchester City Council
Derbyshire County Council
Western Riverside Waste Authority
CIPFA
Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council
Work highlights
- Advising the Oxford City Council on a range of contractual documents to deal with financial, property and power supply issues relating to the Council’s largest superhub of electric vehicle charging facility in the UK, core to its zero carbon strategy with a value of £41 million.
- Advising Manchester City Council on all aspects of its ambitious city centre district heating project with a value of circa £20 million.
- Advising Derbyshire County Council/Derby City Council in relation to the settlement of liabilities following the termination of major Energy from Waste PFI/PPP contract.
Employment > Employment: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP advises a range of clients with a strong focus on the sectors of health, education and insurance. In particular, the team has a growing focus within healthcare, handling flexible working models, vaccine programmes and issues arising from long-term Covid-19. The team is headed by Peter Jones and Bridget Prosser, with Bettina Rigg acting as the head of higher education and Jacqueline Atkinson acting as the head of healthcare employment.Practice head(s):
Peter Jones; Bridget Prosser; Bettina Rigg; Jacqueline Atkinson
Other key lawyers:
Rachel Billen; Daniella Glynn; Marie Ashton
Testimonials
‘Clearly led by a very experienced team of senior employment lawyers. A leading employment law department and well resourced firm.’
‘Bridget Prosser is a market leading employment specialist who is very knowledgeable, experienced and a safe pair of hands in technical and sensitive cases.’
‘The team are very responsive in supporting any question or query.’
‘They are directly accessible and very responsive, providing strong and clear guidance across a range of employment issues.’
‘Daniella Glynn is exceptional in the work she does. She always approaches any challenges with great professionalism, pragmatism and good humour.’
‘They take the time to understand the clients needs and objectives and assign the right expertise.’
‘They are always prompt in responding to queries and their knowledge of the sector is excellent.’
‘They are extremely approachable, understand our organisation and will tailor training to meet our needs.’
Work highlights
- Acted for pharmaceutical-related client before the Employment Tribunal.
- Acted for client in employment-related claims pertaining to matters of religious beliefs, sexual orientation and transgender working rights.
Employment > Health and safety Tier 2
Browne Jacobson LLP provides general regulatory advice to private organisations in sectors such as care, road traffic, food safety and the environment. The team is led by Andrew Hopkin who has vast experience acting for corporate bodies as well as individuals before the HSE. Dale Collins and Nigel Lyons have a combination of experience in conducting regulatory investigations and advocating before courts.Practice head(s):
Andrew Hopkin
Other key lawyers:
Dale Collins; Nigel Lyons
Testimonials
‘The team is always available. They put in the effort for the client and are client focused rather than self focused. They are very well organised and manage cases exceptionally well.’
‘Dale Collins: Attentive to the clients requirements, understands their needs and achieves the best results for the client either by his own advocacy or impressive tactical negotiation. He is able to do this because he he is empathetic and cares about his clients wanting to succeed for them.’
‘There are a multitude of talented individuals who help clients navigate interactions with the Executive at all stages. From secretarial to advocacy, the team had a depth of experience, intelligence, and skills suitably backed up with access to up to date IT and resources.’
‘Nigel Lyons has an excellent team behind him who are very approachable, resourceful and efficient. Nigel and Browne Jacobson LLP are where I would go if faced with a health and safety issue.’
‘The team covers the full range of issues in this area and to a remarkable degree, works in a close-knit way to give clients a comprehensive and superb service from start to finish. The leadership provided by Andy Hopkins and Nigel Lyons is second to none and with Dale Collins in close support, this is the most formidable team in the South West.’
‘Nigel Lyons and Dale Collins provide an unusual combination of both hard work and determined focus on the client\’s interests. Nobody else does the work in the way this practice and these individuals do it. Quite simply superb.’
Key clients
Classic Builders (South West) Ltd
Work highlights
Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence; defendant
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s personal injury practice is led by Joanne Pruden and handles a range of claims in this area, including employers’ and public liability claims. The practice particularly stands out for its work handling incidents involving the NHS, such as workplace injuries and incidents involving patients. Director Angela Williams leads on this work, while Pruden also regularly receives instructions from local authorities. The team offers additional expertise in clinical negligence, where Michael Chambers collaborates with the firm’s teams in Birmingham and Nottingham to handle complex claims. Chambers’ recent work includes handling a number of novel claims brought by secondary victims. Other names to note in the ‘consistently impressive’ practice include Mark Barnett, who specialises in claims involving mental health providers, and senior associate Becky Wyld. Wyld offers clients ‘very good tactical insight’ and acts for trusts in court proceedings as well as at inquests.Practice head(s):
Michael Chambers; Joanne Pruden; Mark Barnett
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The support is always there on even the most minor of issues. They take ownership from the word go. Educational and training opportunities have continued throughout the Pandemic.’
‘Browne Jacobson’s clinical negligence defence team is consistently impressive. The claims are well managed and papers to counsel are always well prepared. My experience of the file handlers is that they are experienced and on top of their cases, so that the claims are in good hands from start to finish. The online document management system introduced during Covid has in my experience been effective and secure, without access difficulties. All in all a really strong NHS panel firm.’
‘I have worked with Becky Wyld for many years. She is always on top of her cases and, with prior experience on the claimant side, has very good tactical insight.’
‘Very good.’
‘Browne Jacobson’s Exeter and Birmingham branches have a wide range of expertise with a good understanding of our service needs.’
‘Excellent partnership working, with ease and understanding the needs of our services, providing an exceptional and responsive service. In particular, we have worked with Angela Williams for a number of years who goes above and beyond to provide the best legal advice in the most efficient manner. Always a pleasure working with Angela.’
Key clients
Municipal Mutual Insurance Limited
Zurich
Gallagher Bassett
Ageas
Aspire Academy Trust
Work highlights
- Acting for Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust in a secondary victim claim.
- Representing NHS Resolution in an occupiers’ liability claim for a patient who absconded from hospital.
- Advising MMI/Gallagher Bassett on a social care claim.
Finance > Banking and finance Tier 3
The three pillars of the banking and finance team at Browne Jacobson LLP are asset finance, property finance and health and social care; the latter is the area of expertise of team head Emma Hinton. Paul Hill specialises in corporate lending and infrastructure finance while Paul Ray advises major clients on asset based lending and debt purchase.Practice head(s):
Paul Ray; Emma Hinton
Other key lawyers:
Paul Hill; Chereta Edmeade; John Swani
Testimonials
‘The banking team at Browne Jacobson are very capable, offer excellent advice and are always available as and when required.’
‘The written and verbal communication of the team is exceptional. Very clear explanations around key points within documentation.’
‘Excellent co-ordination across multiple counterparties. Very happy to support follow up queries after the conclusion of transactions.’
‘Chereta Edmeade is always very bubbly and keen to catch up and build rapport with clients. She is always pragmatic and forward thinking around the transaction journey and very clear in her communications. She works exceptionally hard to find solutions that everyone is happy with understanding the concerns and risks and recommendations along the way.’
‘John Swani’s understanding of our legal documentation requirements coupled with their own bespoke work is commended.’
Key clients
HSBC
Virgin Money/Clydesdale
NatWest
Santander
Shawbrook
RBSIF
BREAL Zeta CF
Investec
BOOST&Co
Rcapital
ThinCats
OakNorth
Lloyds
Work highlights
- Advising HSBC on its funding of the acquisition of Pearn’s Pharmacies Ltd by the Knights Chemist group.
- Advised Rcapital Partners in connection with their investment in Patrick Parsons Group, a specialist engineering consultancy providing design services.
- Advising PBE Group on a multi-jurisdictional corporate holdco financing to facilitate a variety of opco refinancings (across the UK, US and Australia) and to support growth acquisitions – demonstrating our international expertise
Real estate > Construction Tier 3
Working collaboratively across numerous offices, Browne Jacobson LLP‘s multi-capable practice regularly handles PFI contract disputes and public utilities procurement contracts for a varied roster of local authorities, healthcare operators, and private sector clients. Practice head Martin Cannon is noted for his contentious expertise, handling contractor claims and PFI disputes for various health, education, and local government entities. Zoe Stollard, who joined from Clarke Willmott LLP in March 2022, advises on a wide array on non-contentious matters, most notably in the energy and infrastructure sectors. Senior associate Emma Wake is recommended for her experience in dispute resolution. All named layers are based in Birmingham.
Practice head(s):
Martin Cannon
Other key lawyers:
Zoe Stollard; Emma Wake
Testimonials
‘A dedicated team with exceptionally talented and hard-working associates enables Browne Jacobson to offer a client high quality and value for money.’
‘Martin Cannon is excellent.’
Key clients
BAM Construction Limited
Blackpool Borough Council
Wolverhampton City Council
University of Hertfordshire
Cardiff Council
Mace Group
J Coffey Construction Limited
Community Inclusive Trust
Hope Learning Trust
London Borough of Enfield
Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust
B:Music Limited (Birmingham Symphony Hall)
University College Birmingham
Wintech Limited
Homes England
Dudley Hospitals NHS Trust
London Borough of Croydon
Thurrock Council
London Borough of Tower Hamlets
Kent County Council
North Staffordshire Combined NHS Trust
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust
Work highlights
- Advising BAM Construction in relation to a dispute regarding systemic failure of a cladding installation at the Hampshire Borough Council premises, with a value in excess of £12m.
- Advising Derby City and Derbyshire County Councils in relation to the termination of a PFI contract in relation to a waste from energy plant, and the resultant dispute as to the valuation of the contract, with a dispute value in excess of £200m.
- Advising Cardiff Council on three interconnected contracts to procure the Design, Build, Operation and Maintenance of the Cardiff City’s £26.5m Central Heat Network.
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 3
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s ‘excellent service‘ in property disputes is concentrated in a number of sectors, with the team handling both landlord and tenant, and development-driven proceedings for a diverse roster of corporate occupiers and local authorities. In recent months, the team has been increasingly active on canal and river-based property management matters, including contested lease renewals and disputed option agreements. Practice chair James Coles , who splits his time between Birmingham and Nottingham, is an ‘outstanding litigator’ who routinely works with high-profile public and private sector clients.Practice head(s):
James Coles
Testimonials
‘James Coles has been clear and upfront with costs, also minimising costs where appropriate and possible. I personally appreciate the high level of communication and his ability to offer good, sound opinions that is proving to be successful for our outcome.’
‘Browne Jacobson offers an excellent service from the inception of a case to its conclusion. The strong property litigation team is ably led by James Coles. Whilst being a heavy hitting practice which attracts a number of high profile clients, they have a down to earth approach which puts the client at the centre of the case. No matter the size of the case, they will provide an excellent service which is focused on achieving the client’s objectives, whether that is best served through negotiation or litigation.’
‘James Coles is an outstanding litigator. He has a wealth of experience in property litigation which shows in his clear and confident advice. James seeks to understand his client’s key objectives and works out a clear strategy to enable them to achieve their aim in the most cost effective manner possible. This is a skill that some litigators lack as they leave the preparation until too late in the day.’
Key clients
Co-operative Bank plc
Vision Express Ltd
Benchmark Drinks Ltd
Pure Gym Limited
Paperchase Products Limited
Walgreens Boots Alliance
DPD Group UK Limited
Aggregate Industries UK Limited
AGCO Limited
Scrivens Limited
Cheshire East Borough Council
Select Service Partner (UK) Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Boots on contentious issues with their new flagship London store.
- Providing strategic advising to Pure Gym on Covid-related issues impacting the business.
- Advising Harlow District Council on a complex restrictive covenant dispute.
Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 3
Browne Jacobson LLP is noted for its ‘exceptional service levels’ and the team is known for its multidisciplinary and cross-office approach. Areas of strength include handling influencer agreements, sponsorship agreements, supply chain issues and brand strategies. The practice is collectively led by real estate specialists Caroline Green and Sarah Parkinson, as well as Roland Gray who joined the practice from Dentons in November 2021 to lead the retail, consumer and logistics sector group. Additional arrivals include Cat Driscoll and Ragene Raithatha joining from DWF, who advise on commercial issues and construction mandates respectively.Practice head(s):
Caroline Green; Sarah Parkinson; Roland Gray
Other key lawyers:
Suki Tonks; Cat Driscoll; Ragene Raithatha
Testimonials
‘The team is at the heart of the practice, you get the sense that everyone who you come into contact with throughout the organisation cares and wants to be the best class.’
‘Service levels are exceptional, the connections made are lasting and genuine, processes are simplified and clear, ranging from fee structures, billing and project work. Technology and methods of streamlining communication have been embraced which benefits both sides.’
‘Suki Tonks – excellent communicator, clear, challenges, gives solid advice and is our first port of call. Her dedication to delivering for our business is second to none, she goes the extra mile every time. I can honestly say, I’ve never worked with such a fantastic professional.’
Key clients
Louis Vuitton
Christian Dior
Walgreens Boots Alliance (“Boots”)
Vision Express
Halfords
Paperchase
Floris
John Smedley
Hillarys Blinds
Not On The High Street
JD Sports
DPD
PureGym
Work highlights
- Acted for private equity house, LDC on the sale of Addo Foods, which includes some of the UK’s leading brands such as Pork Farms and Wall’s.
- Acted for Iconic on its retainer for all commercial and IP legal work including advising Iconic London on a product placement and sponsorship agreement with a US television production company and managing Iconic London’s international trade mark portfolio and third party oppositions.
- Acted for Chesterfield Borough Council on the strategic acquisition of The Pavements Shopping Centre in Chesterfield from investment company vendors.
Insurance > Clinical negligence: defendant Tier 3
The Browne Jacobson LLP team is led by the ‘brilliant’ Matthew Trinder. The London team was established in 2017, and has recently been appointed to the NHSR panel for all work types. It has a growing reputation for its specialism in defending complex claims involving matters including obstetrics, GP indemnity, mental health, emergency and ambulance services, spinal and dental injury, and private medical malpractice cases; its ethos is early resolution. Its recent caseload has been particularly noteworthy, with Trinder leading on a medical malpractice case of the largest NHS England patient recall to date, which the team successfully defended at appeal.Practice head(s):
Matthew Trinder
Testimonials
‘Browne Jacobson have a good team who run an efficient and experienced ship.’
‘Matthew Trinder handles the largest quantum cases for the NHS. He has an unfailing eye for detail.’
‘A good combination of technical expertise and commercial sense.’
‘I would single out Matthew Trinder as a determined litigator and formidable opponent.’
‘This firm is very transparent in billing, they itemise every step and every item and show clarity. Our solicitor Matthew Trinder is as good as gold, most honest and efficient, the best we have ever come across. He’s readily responsive, very efficient, robust, thorough, he analyses and goes through every step, also carefully researches everything before making any firm decisions. He is also 100% behind his clients, very supportive and sympathetic and considerate towards his self-paying clients.’
‘Matthew Trinder is brilliant, he fights with his teeth for his clients. He is also very fair and honest.’
Key clients
The Doctors Laboratory
BMI Healthcare/Circle Health Group
NHS Resolution
Hiscox
CNA Hardy
Medical Protection Society
Mid & South Essex NHS Foundation Trust
Barking Havering & Redbridge Hospitals NHS Trust
Dental Protection Ltd
Markel
Zurich
Gallagher Bassett
Lundbeck A/S
The Gynae Centre
Work highlights
- Secured the dismissal of a group claim made by 473 patients after the largest ever patient recall by NHS England.
- Represented NHS Resolution and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust in a successful Court of Appeal case which has consequences for secondary victim claims in clinical negligence contexts.
- Acting in a case which requires the defendant to establishing that the court has jurisdiction to make an order and that it would be in the interests of justice in a case of this nature.
Insurance > Personal injury: defendant Tier 3
James Fawcett leads the insurance team at Browne Jacobson LLP, with frequent assistance from Nottingham-based head of public law Laura Hughes. The group has experience in dealing with injury cases of maximum severity, including brain and spinal injuries. It also defends on foreseeable risk of injury cases in more minor incidents. The firm’s particular specialism is in adult and child abuse cases; namely acting in public liability matters defending local governments against vicarious liability claims in instances of child sexual abuse, as well as in ‘failure to remove’ cases involving complex Human Rights issues.Practice head(s):
James Fawcett; Laura Hughes
Testimonials
‘They have specialist knowledge and experience in handling rather complex claims.’
‘In addition to providing us with detailed reports, they are happy to discuss cases over the phone directly with us in a friendly and helpful manner.’
‘The work is detailed, of a high standard and provides a good service.’
Key clients
Environment Agency
Liberty Syndicates
Markel (UK) Ltd
Municipal Mutual Insurance Ltd
Marble Arch – Lexham Insurance Services
London borough of Lambeth Insurance team
Department for Education (RPA)
Gallagher Bassett International Ltd
TopMark Claims Management Ltd
Zurich Insurance
London borough of Enfield Insurance team
Hiscox
Natural England
Norfolk County Council
Insurance London Consortium
Resolute Management
Public sector > Education: institutions Tier 3
Browne Jacobson LLP handles a wide range of matters of importance for educational institutions, including managing residential accommodation, student health issues relating to the pandemic and the impact of Brexit on procurement. The team is led by Bettina Rigg, who focuses on equality, inclusion and discrimination claims, and Dominic Swift, who works on the construction and development sides of higher education. Selina Hinchcliffe is also strong in this area, developing a number of partnerships with universities.Practice head(s):
Bettina Rigg; Dominic Swift
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Very knowledgeable’
‘The practice provides a full understanding of employment issues in a higher education context.’
‘Bettina Rigg is incredibly supportive. She has a deep understanding of HE issues and she listens to your requirements and helps you manage risk’
‘We get a bespoke service that feels like they know us.’
‘Bettina Rigg provides a real commitment to the University and EDI knowledge is excellent.’
‘Browne Jacobson are hungry for education work, and provide a wealth of knowledge. They are expanding into the higher education sector and spend a lot of time getting to know the client and how it works.’
‘Dominic Swift – very enthusiastic about the sector, always looking for solutions’
‘The client service has been very good – responsive, able to meet deadlines; able to dissect complex matters and concepts and relay the same to clients; pragmatic and satisfactorily able to deal with urgent client queries within timescales.’
Key clients
Brunel University London
Edge Hill University
King’s College London
London School of Economics (LSE)
Loughborough University
Nottingham Trent University
South Devon College
University of Bolton
University of Brighton
University of Derby
University of Hertfordshire
University of York
Work highlights
- Advising King’s College London and supporting their internal legal team, on a significant volume of instructions across a broad spectrum of legal issues.
- Advised the University of Hertfordshire and their project manager, Faithful + Gould to negotiate a series of contracts to deliver the new School of Physics, Engineering and Computer Science on their campus.
- Advising Outwood Grange Academies Trust, Oasis Community Learning, Star Academies and theHarris Federation with their consortium bid to the DfE in relation to the creation of the Institute of Teaching in England to provide teachers and school leaders with prestigious, advanced training and development throughout their career.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 3
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s deep sector expertise in the luxury beauty, fashion, retail, automobile, and media areas is trusted by a number of leading brands and companies, which instruct the firm for its IP expertise. The team regularly negotiates high-value R&D agreements and complex licensing agreements, as well as advising brands on social media and influencer engagement and marketing issues. Brand portfolio management expert Declan Cushley leads the practice, and Giles Parsons is a key contact in the firm, particularly for automotive clients. Associate Faye McConnell is also of note, particularly for her experience advising luxury retail, fashion, and beauty companies on brand protection and copyright infringement issues.Practice head(s):
Declan Cushley
Other key lawyers:
Faye McConnell; Giles Parsons; Bonita Trimmer; Gavin Lock
Testimonials
‘The team is very thoughtful and provides practical approaches. The right person or people is always proffered. The team focuses on getting results and providing value.’
‘The individuals at Browne Jacobson are dedicated and always show their zeal by understanding the field and then provide an array of solutions. The individuals always have very deep and specific understandings of the law, and help tailor their advice to particular situations.’
‘Great team – provides a top service.’
‘We have cooperated with Declan Cushley and his team for many years, and we have always been very satisfied with the service and quality we have received.’
‘Browne Jacobson assist our business extensively in IP, trade marks and copyright matters. Their strengths are: expertise in all the relevant areas, turning this into easy to understand explanations to assist us in making the best decisions, speed of response and an extensive international network of local firms who can provide advice on international trade marks when needed.’
‘We value their commercial approach, technical expertise, understanding of our business, speed of response and that they feel like partners to us in our business. Stand out individuals in the area of IP, trade marks and copyright are Faye McConnell, Giles Parsons, Declan Cushley and Gavin Lock.’
Key clients
Match Group LLC
Bestseller A/S
Iconic London (Holdings) Limited
MoreNiche
Mace Group
adidas (UK) Limited
PZ Cussons Beauty LLP
Camelot Lotteries UK Limited
Platt Reilly UK Limited
A Ward Limited
Hyperice Inc
Lotus Cars
Aston Martin Lagonda
Foden t/a PARLA
Work highlights
- Acting for the Match Group in litigation to enforce its Match and Tinder trade mark portfolio against Muzmatch Limited.
- Acting on retainer for Iconinc London as in-house counsel and advise Iconic London on all of its brand and commercial relationships.
- Advising Lotus Cars on portfolio management, clearance and development agreements for future models.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 3
Browne Jacobson LLP supports clients on digital transformation projects and complex outsourcing transactions, in addition to purchasing and licensing technologies, software procurements, and systems integrations. The team acts for public and private sector clients, and customers and suppliers of technology. In December 2021, the team was also appointed to the Crown Commercial Service’s General Legal Services Panel, which provides it with a high volume of IT work. Anthony Nagle sits at the helm of the technology group and has substantial experience in IT procurement and outsourcing transactions, while Declan Cushley is head of the IP ad commercial group. The firm opened its first Dublin office in June 2022.Practice head(s):
Key clients
MHRA
Mace
Ascom
Hiscox Insurance Company Limited
ThingCo Limited
Digital Catapult
DHSC
Crown Prosecution Service
Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency
Camelot
Work highlights
- Assisting DHSC in developing a tailored “implementation and operate” contract regarding its procurement of a new information management systems and services, drafting all the technical documents, building the target operating model and financial models, and putting appropriate milestone and delay payment mechanisms in place.
- Advising Hiscox on the evolution of its ongoing collaboration for insurance distribution with Barclays Bank.
- Advising Digital Catapult on a critical template purchasing agreement and statement of work to be used to procure the supply of advanced technology equipment and related services, including servers, immersive technology and 5G telecommunications equipment.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Manchester Tier 3
Since the arrival of ‘technically excellent and commercially pragmatic‘ practitioners Peter Allen and senior associate Ryan Brown in 2019, Browne Jacobson LLP‘s corporate offering in Manchester has been handling transactions of increasing size and complexity for a growing roster of notable clients. In 2021, the firm expanded its capabilities even further with the acquisition of commerical specialist Cat Driscoll; she brings her experience as a legal director advising on a wide range of contract and IP matters at DWF to the role.
Practice head(s):
Peter Allen; Cat Driscoll
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The corporate team at BJ Manchester has an excellent understanding of both the issues that face clients, and the way that other members of the team work. Their advice is measured, proportionate, and never delays progress on a deal unless the matter under consideration is absolutely fundamental. Furthermore, their ability to earn the clients’ trust is unparalleled, and this ability to develop relationships quickly creates an atmosphere which more easily facilitates transactions.’
‘Ryan Brown has competence that exceeds his standing as a senior associate, to the extent that each time I deal with BJ the required input of a partner diminishes.’
‘The PE experience of the team in the mid-market space is unique. The Browne Jacobson Manchester M&A Team are high quality individuals, well known in the city for their commercial acumen, can-do attitude and negotiation skills. The wider firm are also brought to bear on a number of transactions as the specialists in specific areas come to the fore.’
‘Ryan Brown is soon to be a leading light in the Manchester legal market in his own right; the support Ryan provides to Peter Allen on a transaction is second to none and is regularly commented on (in a positive manner).’
‘Great depth of knowledge and resources across the team, both locally and nationally. Clear and straightforward advice with a clear recommendation and opinion at the end of the legal analysis, delivered with obvious commercial understanding of the wider context within which their advice is being provided and the potential business impact.’
‘Technically excellent and commercially pragmatic – the combination of Peter Allen and Ryan Brown just works – a great team. Ryan’s grasp and retention of the detail on all aspects of a corporate transaction is superb, with Peter providing years of experience and great commercial awareness.’
‘Very responsive; great breadth of expertise; good advice’.
‘Peter Allen is a stand-out performer. Goes above and beyond what is expected to provide a first rate service.’
Key clients
Sale of Chesterfelt Ltd
Palatine Private Equity and CET Property Assurance – Project Castle
Access Creative College and Apiary Capital
SICAME S.A.S
Apiary Capital and Project Engine Bidco Limited
Cooper Software Ltd
Construction Testing Solutions Ltd
The First Milk Cheese Company Limited and First Milk
Weight Partners Capital LLP
Salocin Capital
Maven Capital
Work highlights
- Advised Access Creative College and Apiary Capital on the acquisition of a sound of music institute (dBs) by Access Creative College, backed by private equity firm Apiary Capital.
- Advised Cooper Software and its shareholder and management team on YFM Equity Partners’ investment into the client.
- Advised Weight Partners Capital on its acquisition of the Grosvenor Health and Social Care Group.
Employment Tier 3
With a strong balance between public and private sector clients, Browne Jacobson LLP often represents clients at the Employment Tribunal as well as providing advice on immigration and HR consultancy. The team also undertakes investigations and advises on disciplinary and grievance hearings. Head of the Manchester employment team Ian Deakin is highly experienced in defending employers at the Employment Tribunal, as well as in collective redundancy and TUPE issues.Practice head(s):
Ian Deakin
Testimonials
‘They listen to what the client wants and then provide advice in a clear and pragmatic manner. Nothing is too much trouble. They are proactive and look to solve problems before they arise.’
‘The team is responsive and delivers what is agreed without fail. I have never had reason to complain and their knowledge and support is exemplar. They have extensive experience in the field and that expertise is shared appropriately along with sound advice, planning and support.’
‘The team is friendly, professional, reliable and provided support at the right level. They digested information shared with them very well and the resultant advice is pertinent and appropriate. Their experience, manner and approach is second to no one.’
Key clients
Hiscox
Sports Information Services
Dock 10
Various Multi Academy Trust
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
EM Lawshare
Axis Corporate Capital UK Ltd.
Hiscox
Sports Information Services
Dock 10
Various Multi Academy Trust
Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust
EM Lawshare
Axis Corporate Capital UK Ltd.
Work highlights
- Advised an international corporate in relation to IR35 and its implications for the corporate’s consultancy arrangements.
- Advised a large North West-based infrastructure contractor in relation to an Employment Tribunal Claim for equal pay, unfair dismissal and direct discrimination.
- Advised on the employment aspects of Sicame Group’s acquisition of British company Boddingtons Electrical Limited.
Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 3
Real estate > Commercial property: Manchester Tier 3
The commercial property team at Browne Jacobson LLP 'work smoothly across sectors', including government, health, and education. The practice is co-headed by Dominic Buckley - he advises developers on a full range of real estate matters, and regularly assists on high-profile multi party transactions in the region. Co-head Victoria Thourgood leads the firm's national health and social care real estate practice; she provides a specialist service to clients, and often leads on key projects both regionally and nationwide.Practice head(s):
Dominic Buckley; Victoria Thourgood
Other key lawyers:
Michael Parkinson
Testimonials
‘Good value for money and transparent about costs associated with procedures. Always have worked with a good, knowledgeable team that can overcome most legal issues.’
‘Dominic Buckley – Excellent communication throughout projects and ability to perform when under pressure.’
‘Very helpful.’
‘The team work smoothly across sectors and I receive a joined up, efficient service as a result.’
‘Dominic Buckley and Michael Parkinson are knowledgeable and experienced. They are easy to contact and give clear and consistent advice and a speedy efficient service.’
‘Found the approach to understanding a clients needs and then identifying the key team members who were best served to deliver the right advise was very straightforward.’
‘Dominic Buckley has been excellent in deciphering the needs we have to achieve the overall objectives – brought in key team members when necessary and co-ordinated everything to provide seamless and clear advice.’
Key clients
Primas Property Group
Investar
Orchard Dean Developments
Homes England
Stockport MBC
Jayne Commercial
Birtenshaw
Department for Work and Pensions
Albumedix Limited
YHA (England and Wales)
Care Fertility Group
Prime Plc
East Midlands Ambulance Service
Wrightington Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Primary Health Properties Plc
Derbyshire Community Health Service NHS Foundation Trust
Towerview Care Ltd
Avery Healthcare Group
Clydesdale Yorkshire Banking Group
Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
Work highlights
- Working alongside Prime Plc’s inhouse legal team on the development of a Multi-Storey Car Park and a cancer centre at Royal Surrey County Hospital.
- Advising Stockport Council since 2020 in relation to leisure services that were hit badly by Covid.
- Advised Xanadu on the acquisition from Blackrock of a high value property let to British Aerospace; negotiations took place against the backdrop of an existing tri partite arrangement between Blackrock, BAE and the neighbouring landowner Bellway Homes.
Public sector > Health Tier 3
With offices in Exeter in addition to a presence in London, Manchester, Nottingham and Birmingham, Browne Jacobson LLP’s health practice supports clients on a national level and across the sector. Mark Barnett sports extensive expertise in defending clinical negligence claims, in particular against mental health providers, and is one of the key contacts of the Exeter-based team. Gerard Hanratty leads the nationwide health sector group out of Manchester.Practice head(s):
Gerard Hanratty
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Mark Barnett is thoughtful and measured in the advice he gives and his time is held in high regard.’
‘Browne Jacobson are pragmatic and swift in providing advice on a range of healthcare matters, often at short notice and we have found them very supportive on all the occasions we have instructed them.’
‘Mark Barnett is our lead contact at Browne Jacobson. He is very approachable and and has a wide range of knowledge giving client’s an added benefit of instant advice when needed.’
Key clients
University Hospitals Bristol & Weston NHS Foundation Trust
Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
Cornwall Council
Somerset County Council
Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
Devon Partnership NHS Trust
Torbay & South Devon NHS Foundation Trust
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Kernow CCG
NHS Somerset CCG
NHS Dorset CCG
University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Devon CCG
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
NHS Sussex Commissioners
Work highlights
Public sector > Local government Tier 3
Embedded into the national local authority practice, Browne Jacobson LLP’s South West public sector practice sports specialisms in planning and environmental matters as well as children’s and adult services. Local authority insurance claims and housing repair claims are becoming an increasing part of the team’s work, led by claims and litigation expert Joanne Pruden in Exeter and Peter Ware in Nottingham, the latter who focuses on local government commercial matters. Dale Collins is routinely involved in regulatory crime issues, and Thomas Howard covers the teams’ investments and transactions services. Jennifer Grigg left the firm in June 2021.Practice head(s):
Joanne Pruden; Peter Ware
Other key lawyers:
Dale Collins; Thomas Howard
Key clients
Cornwall Council
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue
Devon County Council
Dorset County Council
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
East Devon District Council
Environment Agency
Exeter City Council
Isles of Scilly Council
Kernow CCG
Merthyr Tydfil Borough Council
Plymouth City Council
Public Sector Transformation Academy
Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust
West Devon Borough Council
Worcestershire County Council
Sedgemoor District Council
Somerset County Council
Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
South West Audit Partnership.
Work highlights
Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham Tier 4
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s diverse public and private sector clientele regularly seek out the team for assistance in a range of development and regeneration matters. Practice co-chair Dominic Swift , who splits his time between Birmingham and Nottingham, is a highly experienced commercial property lawyer who regularly advises some of the firm’s leading public sector and higher education clients. Thomas Howard specialises in local authority investment matters, working on a range of site acquisitions and projects involving healthcare operators. Zo Hoida focuses on public sector regeneration schemes with international stakeholders, including civic and residential redevelopments. Senior associate Philip Gray is noted for his capabilities in mixed-use projects. All named lawyers are based in Birmingham unless stated otherwise.Practice head(s):
Dominic Swift
Other key lawyers:
Thomas Howard; Zo Hoida; Philip Gray
Key clients
Homes England
Buckinghamshire Council
Oxford City Council
Inland Homes
London Borough of Sutton
London Borough of Croydon
Shropshire Council
South Cambridgeshire District Council
Coventry City Council
Warwick Independent School Foundation
Stewart Milne
Railway Paths Limited
The Parigan Property Company
Elevate Property Group
Telford & Wrekin Council
Royal Wolverhampton Hospital NHS Trust
King’s College London
Work highlights
- Advised the London Borough of Sutton on the acquisition of St Nicholas Shopping Centre for £26m.
- Advised Oxford City Council on the installation of an Electric Vehicle Charging Hub in their park and ride car parks, soon to be the largest rapid charging station in the UK.
- Advised Inland Homes on the dual £50m+ disposal of a 583 unit residential scheme in Walthamstow to an RP and a BTR operator.
Real estate > Planning Tier 4
Browne Jacobson LLP works with a strong roster of developers and local authorities on a steady stream of high-value public and private sector projects. ‘Highly knowledgeable‘ practice head Ben Standing specialises in the negotiation of section 106 agreements and major project applications, acting for various local authorities and government departments both within the West Midlands and beyond. Victoria Searle specialises in social housing planning matters, working with national public bodies and registered providers across the region on large-scale redevelopments, and judicial challenges. All named lawyers are based in Birmingham.Practice head(s):
Ben Standing
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team are knowledgeable, have a good understanding of how local government works and are alive to the challenges this can present. They work closely with us to find pragmatic, practical and cost effective solutions.’
‘I have worked closely with Ben Standing in relation to planning matters – both complex and unusual! Ben is extremely approachable and highly knowledgeable. He deals with advice promptly and is happy to discuss matters in advance of receiving instructions – this can be really beneficial as it allows you to narrow down and focus on the most relevant issues.’
‘Ben Standing always makes himself available for a discussion and advice. Ben has also supported us with temporary cover which was invaluable.’
Key clients
London Borough of Croydon
Thurrock Council
Reigate and Banstead Borough Council
Mace Dragados JV
Boots UK Ltd
Welsh Government
Natural England
DPD Group UK Ltd
Wilson Enterprises Ltd
Wheatcroft Properties Ltd
Hertfordshire County Council
Platform Housing Ltd
Inland Homes
Work highlights
- Advising Thurrock Council in relation to the Development consent Order for the £8bn Lower Thames Crossing infrastructure project.
- Advised and represented the Welsh Government at a 2 day planning hearing for a £14m solar farm in Pembrokeshire.
- Advised Mace Dragados joint venture in connection with the planning permission for a major Construction Skills Centre near Euston Station for use as part of the construction of HS2.
Corporate and commercial > M&A: smaller deals, up to £50m Tier 4
Browne Jacobson LLP's London corporate team is led by Jon Snade; his practice has a focus on work for fintech and insurtech clients, and he is known as a 'no-fuss problem-solver'. The 'incredibly personable' team can draw on support from the wider firm's national platform, with more than 30 other corporate specialists based across offices in Nottingham, Birmingham and Manchester.Practice head(s):
Jon Snade
Other key lawyers:
Murdoch Currie; Harry Pearson
Testimonials
‘Commercial and pragmatic advice backed up by sound legal knowledge.’
‘A very tightly organized team, which means you have access at any point in a transaction to a wide variety of in-depth expertise – but the process is coordinated and driven by a single partner, which makes it very easy and efficient to interact with the team.’
‘Leading practice in the InsurTech segment.’
‘Commercial and pragmatic advice backed up by sound legal knowledge and an incredibly personable team.’
‘Jon Snade is a very experienced and very patient no-fuss problem-solver.’
‘Jon Snade and Harry Pearson always do a stellar job.’
Key clients
Agilico Bidco Limited
The Brighton Pier Group plc
Equals Group plc
Digital Fineprint Limited
Elitis UK Limited
Orbis Protect Limited
Project Atlantic Bidco Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Agilico Bidco Limited on its acquisition of Diamond Group (Holdings) Ltd.
- Advised The Brighton Pier Group plc on its acquisition of Lightwater Valley.
- Advised Digital Fineprint Limited on its sale to hubb Insure.
Corporate and commercial > Venture capital Tier 4
Able to call upon ‘some extremely talented lawyers with great experience’ in the field, Browne Jacobson LLP ‘is knowledgeable in the legal proceedings for raising start-up capital’, ensuring that it is a very popular choice among entrepreneurs and start-ups, in particular. In this regard, Jon Snade has a particularly strong reputation among tech clients (including insuretech), many of which have been nurtured through the firm’s very propular GROW programme. ‘Very commercially minded’ Birmingham-based partner Mike Jackson co-heads the team alongside Snade and is noted for his work on behalf of regional start-ups and investors on venture-backed mandates in the automotive and greentech space. A growing fund offering includes a significant amount of work for corporate venturers and traditional investors, including BGF.Practice head(s):
Jon Snade; Mike Jackson
Other key lawyers:
Harry Pearson; Shania Sood
Testimonials
‘The team has a diverse mix of partners involved in various aspects of advice. Associates have the opportunity to play a key role in the deal time, which can be good.’
‘Browne Jacobson has some extremely talented lawyers with great experience and a no-nonsense attitude to legal advice.’
‘They cut through to the salient issues and offer great value for money.’
‘The team at Browne Jacobson is extremely knowledgable in the legal proceedings for raising start-up capital.’
‘They explained all of the legal documents and requirements in terms that are understandable for people with a non-legal background.’
‘There’s a real empathy within the team and a level of client empowerment that I haven’t experienced elsewhere.’
‘Jon Snade provides excellent communication and advice.’
‘Mike Jackson really knows his area (venture capital) and is clearly very commercially-minded as well as knowing how to condense complex legal matters into plain speak.’
Key clients
BGF
Foresight Group
Laka
Aceleron
Mercia Fund Management
FodaBox
Anansi Technology
Dark Horse Technologies (T/A Omega Crop)
Enro Holdings (T/A Superscript)
Digital Fineprint
Amalgamated Holdings Wilkinson Limited
Wilkinson Hardware Stores, Limited
Luxury Holiday Cottages
Brisant Secure
First Milk
Work highlights
- Advised InsurTech pioneer Laka on its $12m Series A funding round led by Autotech Ventures, Ponooc and ABN Amro Ventures.
- Advised Foresight on its exit from third-party logistics and e-commerce fulfilment services provider Selazar Limited.
- Acted for Aceleron, a sustainable battery technology firm, on its investment with Mobility 54 Investment SAS, a subsidiary of Toyota Group, to accelerate battery innovation in Africa.
Insurance > Insurance and reinsurance litigation Tier 4
Boasting a ‘superb team with brilliant lawyers across the spectrum’ Browne Jacobson LLP has maintained a steady stream of activity in Covid-19 business interruption claims, construction, coverholder issues and reinsurance. Through its membership of Harmonie Group, a global network of independent specialist insurance law firms, the practice receives a significant amount of cross-border work. Practice head Colin Peck primarily handles large-scale property damage and business interruption claims. Francis Mackie ‘s practice covers energy, professional indemnity, political risks, pharmaceutical/product liability.Practice head(s):
Colin Peck; Francis Mackie
Testimonials
‘Excellent knowledge and understanding of the market and the law, but still excellent value.’
‘Colin Peck: a highly knowledgeable and thoughtful lawyer and a delight to deal with.’
‘A superb team with brilliant lawyers across the spectrum. They stand-out from their hands-on and collaborative approach, able to bring to any dispute the right mix of partner and associates.’
‘Colin Peck is an authority on all matters connected with insurance and is a go to figure in the London insurance and reinsurance market with an enviable following of international clients.
‘Francis Mackie. Always keen to help, very constructive and imaginative with solutions. Terrific knowledge of the law.’
‘Colin Peck – such an experienced litigator with outstanding knowledge of insurance matters
Key clients
Hiscox Dedicated Corporate Syndicate 33
Starr Managing Agents Ltd (trading as Syndicate CVS 1919)
Chaucer Plc
Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 4
Browne Jacobson LLP has a strong national team which defends claims against a range of professionals including legal professionals, accountants, surveyors/valuers, actuaries and architects. Team head Ed Anderson has twenty-five years experience in defending claims, specialising in complex claims in areas such as tax and pensions. ‘Standout partner’ Jonathan Newbold who is based in Nottingham, is head of financial services and insurance. Tim Claremont leads the construction and engineering team, and has broad experience advising on both domestic and international claims.Practice head(s):
Ed Anderson; Jonathan Newbold
Other key lawyers:
Derek Bambury; Tim Claremont; Jim Hobsley; Lisa Henty; Laura Brown
Testimonials
‘Jim Hobsley is very efficient and has an excellent attention to detail. His advice is swift and sensible and he is able to take on board all of my queries and deal with them expeditiously. His approach is measured and comprehensive and he gives good and solid advice. I feel that my case is in safe hands with him.’
‘Excellent, highly respected team.’
‘Jonathan Newbold – a standout partner, a lawyer’s lawyer yet immensely popular with clients. Derek Bambury – very well liked by the industry and clients alike.’
‘Wide range of experience, capabilities and understanding of client’s needs. Good understanding of what needs to be communicated, when.’
‘Clarity of advice; accessible and straightforward.’
‘Ed Anderson is extremely knowledgeable with the right amount of determination and client awareness. Lisa Henty is methodical, informative and approachable.’
Key clients
Hiscox
HDI Global
Pen Underwriting
International General Insurance Company
Tokio Marine HCC
Bar Mutual
Zurich
Generali
Channel Syndicate
PAMIA
Precision Underwriting
First Title
AmTrust Europe
QIC Europe
Great Lakes Insurance
Work highlights
- Advising insurers on several thousand buyer-financed property claims (aka fractional sales) involving PBSA (purpose built student accommodation) and the developers Pinnacle Alliance and North Point Group.
- Offering counsel to an insurer on a large group action. This involves fraudulent buyer-financed development schemes involving hotel rooms and care homes and the developer Northern Powerhouse Developments.
- Defending a very large firm of insurance brokers against a claim arising out of the avoidance of a property policy following a fire that destroyed a Grade II listed property. We are also dealing with a separate coverage arbitration against their former insurers regarding coverage for the claim.
Real estate > Construction: contentious Tier 4
Browne Jacobson LLP offers advise on both national and international construction projects within the private and public sectors. It has particular expertise in disputes in the waste to energy sector, as well as for cladding and student accommodation-related issues. Tim Claremont heads the team, and has significant experience in advising on real estate and high-value public sector projects. The team is supported by Matt Jones, who specialises in contentious construction matters.Practice head(s):
Tim Claremont
Other key lawyers:
Matt Jones; Mark Stubbs
Testimonials
‘Tim Claremont and Mark Stubbs are excellent. They leave no stone unturned in looking achieving a good result. They are highly capable and easy to work with.’
‘Their fees are very reasonable for the excellent service they provide.’
Key clients
Mace Group
Centrica
Zurich Insurance plc
F3G
IHI
CPH2
Yara International ASA
Willmott Dixon
CBRE
Alpha Real Capital
HCA
Work highlights
- Representing Chesterfield Borough Council in a claim for circa £2.25 million against R B Allfree & Co. Limited (RBA), a main contractor. The claim involves highly technical issues in relation to geotechnical and material properties.
- Represented Victoria Way Limited in a claim for £2.5 million against Aviva Insurance Limited.
Finance > Banking and finance Tier 4
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s practice advises a combination of major clearing banks, such as Lloyds and HSBC, and alternative debt providers, with expertise advising on structured finance deals. The Birmingham-based Paul Ray leads the national team, which also includes lawyers in Nottingham and Manchester, where Graham Ball leads the team, offering expertise in real estate and private equity lending.Practice head(s):
Paul Ray; Graham Ball
Other key lawyers:
Melanie Hilton
Testimonials
‘The team comprises knowledgeable & approachable professionals who are good at talking through issues & risks in building solutions.’
‘Graham Ball and Melanie Hilton are both good at providing balanced advice, pointing out any risks to proposed approaches.’
‘A highly personable team. Enjoyable to work alongside whilst also carrying out work in a professional and highly competent manner. Communicate well throughout a transaction and the depth of team means that there is always someone to pick up work to meet tight timescales when required.’
‘Melanie Hilton is very strong technically and commercially minded.’
Key clients
HSBC
Virgin Money/Clydesdale
NatWest
Santander
Shawbrook
RBSIF
BREAL Zeta CF
Investec
BOOST&Co
Rcapital
ThinCats
OakNorth
Lloyds
Work highlights
- Advised HSBC on the provision of syndicated facilities for refinancing 22 of Dovehaven Group’s care homes.
- Advised Apiary Capital on the management buy-out of XVR and Learnpro Limited, financed by Santander.
- Advising OakNorth on its financing of Apprentify Group’s acquisition of NetcomTraining.
Public sector > Administrative and public law Tier 5
Browne Jacobson LLP is instructed by a wide range of public sector clients, from local government to universities across the country, with Welsh clientele being a new niche area of focus. The firm is noted for its strong Public Inquiry practice, and has acted for core participants in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, and for NHS England in the Manchester Bombing Inquest. Ros FosterPractice head(s):
Richard Barlow; Laura Hughes
Other key lawyers:
Ros Foster; Ben Standing; Victoria Searle
Testimonials
‘Victoria Searle – highly recommended.’
‘Dedicated team, quick to respond, effective with advice, focused on solutions.’
‘Laura Hughes – excellent understanding of the client’s business and able to give credible advice to Board members in difficult circumstances.’
Key clients
Welsh Government
Independent Monitoring Authority for Citizens Rights
Qualification Wales
Natural England
Coal Authority
Canal and Rivers Trust
Marine Management Organisation
Natural Resources Wales
Joint Nature Conservation Committee
East Midlands LawShare Consortium (range of local authority and arms length clients)
NHS England and Improvement
Professional Standards Authority
Sports England
UK Sport
London Borough of Croydon
Lawyers in Local Government (Wales)
Thanet District Council
Various CCG’s
Money and Pensions Service
Environment Agency
Work highlights
- Represented Yew Tree Primary School in its successful judicial review claim against the forced academisation decision made by the Secretary of State for Education.
- Advised Natural England on new advice to competent authorities on the assessment of the impacts of new plans and projects on protected sites.
- Advised the Welsh Government on its reform of primary health services in Wales, including the response to Covid-19.
Real estate > Construction: non-contentious Tier 5
Browne Jacobson LLP advises on major national and international projects, acting for clients across the construction industry in both the private and public sectors. Tim Claremont leads the team, with extensive experience advising on domestic and international engineering and construction matters, including on clean energy projects.Practice head(s):
Tim Claremont
Testimonials
‘The team is effective, economical, robust, and knowledgeable across a number of contractual arrangements, from NEC construction contracts to development and asset protection agreements.’
‘They are quick to respond and agile when requirements or priorities have changed.’
‘They are approachable, knowledgeable and highly professional. It is clear that they appoint specialists to each of the client’s differing requirements, and all are able to understand complicated contractual relationships and interpret client intentions quickly and accurately.’
‘They have the skill to explain complicated concepts in clear layman’s language and explain legal jargon in plain English.’
Key clients
Mace Group
Centrica
Zurich Insurance plc
F3G
IHI
CPH2
Yara International ASA
Willmott Dixon
CBRE
Alpha Real Capital
HCA
Clydesdale Bank
Games Workshop
Wilko Ltd
Work highlights
- Advising on three major and important projects for the Mace Data Centre business unit (Ireland, Denmark, The Netherlands and Belgium). The total value of construction work exceeds €1bn for each project.
- Advising Clean Power Hydrogen Group Limited on a number of deals to commercialise its core membrane-free electrolyser technology in the production of highly-pure hydrogen (for energy), as well as oxygen (for use in treating waste water).
- Advising Mace in relation to numerous large matters, including the fit-out of Apple’s new research base at 30 Station Road in Cambridge UK.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech Tier 5
Browne Jacobson LLP handles funding rounds for fintech clients, while also leveraging expertise in relation to insurtech issues and payment services work. Declan Cushley leads the team alongside Jon Snade, who focuses on corporate matters within the fintech space. Beyond partner level, associates David Henderson and Jeniz White are vital team members.Practice head(s):
Jon Snade; Declan Cushley
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Excellent partner for fintech startups.’
‘Jeniz White was a particularly useful asset to the legal team.’
‘Browne Jacobson combines expertise in fintech and financial services regulation with a flexible and approachable service offering for high growth early stage companies.’
‘We were particularly impressed with David Henderson, whose deep knowledge in financial services regulation and genuine passion for all things fintech helped us overcome various regulatory obstacles as we prepared the business for FCA authorisation.’
‘Jon Snade is one of the leading lawyers in the City for VC fundraising transactions in the fintech space, and there couldn’t be a better lawyer to help our business build long-lasting relationships with the wider venture ecosystem.’
‘I really haven’t met a team that is this fintech-focused and committed to early stage companies in the London scene.’
Key clients
Laka
Anansi Technology
Dark Horse Technologies (T/A Omega Crop)
Enro Holdings (T/A Superscript)
Digital Fineprint
Hiscox Syndicates
Equals Group plc
Lucra
Work highlights
- Advised insurtech pioneer Laka on its $12m series A funding round led by Autotech Ventures, Ponooc and ABN Amro Ventures.
- Advised Anansi Technology on its £1.5m investment round led by Octopus Ventures.
- Advised Digital Fineprint on its sale to hub Insure.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment (including media finance) Tier 5
National firm Browne Jacobson LLP has a strong brand protection practice, and also advises on advertising, sponsorship and has recently been highly involved in work for companies producing sets and utilities for film & TV production. A specialist in brand protection matters, Declan Cushley heads up the team from London - he has served as in-house counsel for Iconic London on all their advertising and influencer matters.Practice head(s):
Declan Cushley
Other key lawyers:
Faye McConnell; Giles Parsons; Cat Driscoll; Gavin Lock
Testimonials
‘Declan Cushley stands out in a very strong team, with Faye McConnell performing brilliantly as well.’
‘Their strengths are: expertise in all the relevant areas, turning this into easy to understand explanations to assist us in making the best decisions, speed of response and building contract templates e.g. for engagements with influencers/agencies.’
‘We value their commercial approach, technical expertise, understanding of our business, speed of response and that they feel like partners to us in our business. Stand out individuals in the area of media entertainment are Faye McConnell, Giles Parsons, Declan Cushley and Gavin Lock.’
Key clients
Lotus Cars
PZ Cussons
Camelot UK Lotteries Limited
LVMH
Iconic London (Holdings) Limited
QMS Holdings Limited
MoreNiche
adidas (UK) Limited
Palace Scenery Construction Limited
BGI Supplies Limited
Greens Team
Work highlights
- Acted for BGI Supplies Limited in negotiating the contract for Dune 2, considering the contractual protections BGI needs.
- Advised Camelot Lotteries UK Limited on trademark and copyright enforcement worlwide, on licensing agreements, compliance, sponsorship and brand ambassador agreements and all general IP and commercial issues.
- Advising Palace Scenery Limited on all service agreements with film studios including Apple, Disney, Lucasfilm, Warner, Marvel, and Netflix.
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Manchester Tier 5
Browne Jacobson LLP are noted as specialists across both the private and public arenas, with a sector focus on automotive, manufacturing, health and social care, and local government. In the Manchester office, Paul Kirkpatrick and Emma Marshall are the key contacts, while the Nottingham-based Jonathan Tardif acts as the overall practice head.Practice head(s):
Jonathan Tardif
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘A very personable approach with a keen focus on the commercial realities behind the engagement. Excellent communicators and collaborators with the business, able to support the commercial teams understand the legal merits and challenges in a matter to enable effective strategies to be developed.’
‘Working with Browne Jacobson is like working with your own colleagues. They will often help with a quick question over email or take a call from us, it’s true partnership working.’
‘We have worked particularly closely with Emma Marshall over recent months. Emma is supportive, helpful and informative. She understands our business and what we need and the approach we want to take. It’s just like working with a member of our own team.’
Key clients
Sanglier Limited
Work highlights
- Representing Sanglier in a high-value, complex, multi-party and longrunning supply chain dispute.
Insurance > Professional negligence
Public sector > Education: individuals
East Midlands > TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
Displaying ‘top drawer technical knowledge’, Browne Jacobson LLP acts for an impressive roster of retailers, consumer brands and life sciences companies in high profile patent, design and copyright matters and substantial licensing, co-branding and collaboration agreements. Lead partner Selina Hinchliffe specialises in transactional IP and is the primary contact in Nottingham. Integrated as a national practice, the Nottingham group works alongside its colleagues in Birmingham (headed by Mark Daniels ) and London (where national head of IP Declan Cushley is based) on patent, trade mark and copyright infringement disputes.Practice head(s):
Declan Cushley; Mark Daniels
Other key lawyers:
Selina Hinchliffe
Testimonials
‘Top drawer technical knowledge, applied by friendly, likeable and energetic individual team members.’
‘Declan Cushley is an absolute pleasure to work with. Subject matter experts who are completely focused on client needs; responsive and flexible. Hard to beat.’
Key clients
Loughborough University
Clean Power Hydrogen
Bollin Group
GKN Aerospace
King’s College London
Aston Martin Lagonda
Dark Horses Technologies
Greenwood Academies Trust
Brunel University London
University of Hertfordshire
Games Workshop
Ventive Ltd
PZ Cussons
A-Ward Attachments
Goodyear Dunlop
Lotus Cars
Marston’s PLC
Dataglide
PZ Cussons
Bestseller A/S
Work highlights
- Acting for Loughborough University on its development and future exploitation of key know-how and IP linked to elite level sports nutrition and fitness through a unique software platform.
- Advising Clean Power Hydrogen Group Limited (CPH2) on a number of deals to commercialise its core membrane-free electrolyser technology in the production of highly-pure hydrogen, including a 15-year partnership with Northern Ireland Water.
- Advised the shareholders of Dataglide in connection with the sale of the business to Kneip. Dataglide are a software heavy business specialising in process automation and data transformation.
East Midlands > TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport
Browne Jacobson LLP works with sporting venue operators, sports clubs, local councils, and sporting bodies on a wide range of work, handling development matters, contract disputes, procurement, regulatory issues and much more. Insurance specialist Kevin Lawson is a key name in Birmingham, while the team includes a number of ‘excellent team players’ in the Nottingham office, including real estate partner Sarah Parkinson and public law specialist Laura Hughes.Practice head(s):
Kevin Lawson
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Without exception, all members of Browne Jacobson’s sports law team I have worked with are excellent team players – they work well with each other and provide the highest level of service to their clients.’
‘I have now worked with Kevin Lawson at Browne Jacobson for a number of years on a number of different cases, including on a particularly difficult and long running sports law case. They are all excellent team players and are a pleasure to work with. The quality of the work they do in the sports law sphere is excellent and they have an exceptionally good relationship with their insurer clients.
‘Kevin Lawson is excellent from a strategic point of view. He always has a laser-like focus on obtaining commercial and pragmatic solutions for his insurers clients who are incredibly loyal as a result.’
‘Kevin Lawson is exceptionally good at considering problems from all angles and values input from all members of his team, associates and counsel alike.’
Key clients
Motorsport Vision Limited
Sherwood Forest Golf Club
East Suffolk Council
UK Sport
Sport England
Hiscox Insurance
Work highlights
- Advised Motorsport Vision Limited on significant redevelopment of premises at Donington Park race track.
- Advised Sherwood Forest Golf Club regarding a potentially significant construction dispute.
- Advised East Suffolk Council in respect of the appointment of a leisure operator to provide key services.
East Midlands > Real estate > Property litigation
Browne Jacobson LLP acts for a range of clients from various sectors, including central government, local authorities, healthcare bodies, insurance providers, landowners and developers, on all types of real estate related litigation. The team acts in both commercial and residential landlord and tenant disputes, development and land disputes, and further property claims, such as those relating to boundaries, rights of way and lights, rights of access and restrictive covenants. Birmingham-based James Coles is the national head of the real estate disputes team and provides ‘very good, clear and practical advice‘ to large national and international clients from the retail, logistics and healthcare sectors, among others.Practice head(s):
James Coles
Other key lawyers:
Claire Burns
Testimonials
‘The understanding of our business requirements and the proactive approach we receive daily is second to none. The attention to detail, explanations and summaries are on point and very relevant and saves me such a lot of time as I fully understand everything.’
‘Claire Burns is my main contact in the Nottingham office and she is excellent in every transaction we instruct her upon. I cannot fault in any way her work ethic, her knowledge base is outstanding and her dedication to us as a client to ensure we get the best possible service and outcome is amazing. I could not envisage dealing with anyone better as her counterparts on the transactions always seem to be failing in my opinion.’
‘As expected – efficient.’
‘James Coles has proved easily contactable and provided very good, clear and practical advice with regards to our litigation matter. James has been clear and upfront with costs, also minimising costs where appropriate and possible. I personally appreciate the high level of communication and his ability to offer good, sound based opinion that is proving to be successful for our outcome.’
Key clients
Co-operative Bank plc
Vision Express Ltd
Benchmark Drinks Ltd
Pure Gym Limited
Paperchase Products Limited
Walgreens Boots Alliance
DPD Group UK Limited
Aggregate Industries UK Limited
AGCO Limited
Scrivens Limited
Cheshire East Borough Council
Select Service Partner (UK) Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Boots on contentious issues with their new flagship London store.
- Provided strategic advising to Pure Gym on covid related issues impacting the business.
- Advised Harlow District Council on complex restrictive covenant dispute.
North West > Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
Browne Jacobson LLP’s health advisory and litigation team handles clinical negligence claims for NHS Resolution, Medical Protection Society, independent healthcare providers and medical malpractice insurers. The practice has specialisms in obstetrics, GP indemnity, mental health, emergency and ambulance, spinal and dental matters. Amanda Callaghan heads up the Manchester office, offering extensive experience in the healthcare advisory and claims field. Sarah Manning supervises teams of clinical negligence lawyers based across the Midlands and Manchester offices, while recently promoted partner Louise Jackson leads the team representing dental practitioners and orthodontics specialists; she has of late been acting head of clinical negligence.Practice head(s):
Amanda Callaghan; Sarah Manning; Louise Jackson
Other key lawyers:
Bethan Parry
Testimonials
‘Their experience in defending these claims is unrivalled.’
‘Louise Jackson – tactically astute, misses nothing, fights hard for her clients.’
‘Louise Jackson is a first rate senior associate.’
‘Louise Jackson is an excellent solicitor.’
‘Bethan Parry has recently joined the team from an extensive claimant background. Her attention to detail and communication skills are outstanding.’
Key clients
Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh NHS Trust
Stockport NHS FT
Manchester Mental Health NHS FT
Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
The Christie NHS FT
North West Ambulance Trust NHS Trust
Medical Protection Society
Dental Protection Limited
NHS Resolution
Work highlights
- Obtained a finding of fundamental dishonesty against a playboy glamour model and an award for costs pursuant to CPR 44.16 (1) in excess of £100,000. The claimant’s appeal failed in March 2021 and the defendant was awarded additional costs.
- Defended three separate money claims issued against our client’s member GPs and the practice manager by a former disgruntled patient.
South West > Public sector > Local government
Embedded into the national local authority practice, Browne Jacobson LLP’s South West public sector practice sports specialisms in planning and environmental matters as well as children’s and adult services. Local authority insurance claims and housing repair claims are becoming an increasing part of the team’s work, led by claims and litigation expert Joanne Pruden in Exeter and Peter Ware in Nottingham, the latter who focuses on local government commercial matters. Dale Collins is routinely involved in regulatory crime issues, and Thomas Howard covers the teams’ investments and transactions services. Jennifer Grigg left the firm in June 2021.Practice head(s):
Joanne Pruden; Peter Ware
Other key lawyers:
Dale Collins; Thomas Howard
Key clients
Cornwall Council
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue
Devon County Council
Dorset County Council
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
East Devon District Council
Environment Agency
Exeter City Council
Isles of Scilly Council
Kernow CCG
Merthyr Tydfil Borough Council
Plymouth City Council
Public Sector Transformation Academy
Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust
West Devon Borough Council
Worcestershire County Council
Sedgemoor District Council
Somerset County Council
Somerset Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
South West Audit Partnership.
Work highlights
North West > Finance > Banking and finance
Browne Jacobson LLP‘s practice advises a combination of major clearing banks, such as Lloyds and HSBC, and alternative debt providers, with expertise advising on structured finance deals. The Birmingham-based Paul Ray leads the national team, which also includes lawyers in Nottingham and Manchester, where Graham Ball leads the team, offering expertise in real estate and private equity lending.Practice head(s):
Paul Ray; Graham Ball
Other key lawyers:
Melanie Hilton
Testimonials
‘The team comprises knowledgeable & approachable professionals who are good at talking through issues & risks in building solutions.’
‘Graham Ball and Melanie Hilton are both good at providing balanced advice, pointing out any risks to proposed approaches.’
‘A highly personable team. Enjoyable to work alongside whilst also carrying out work in a professional and highly competent manner. Communicate well throughout a transaction and the depth of team means that there is always someone to pick up work to meet tight timescales when required.’
‘Melanie Hilton is very strong technically and commercially minded.’
Key clients
HSBC
Virgin Money/Clydesdale
NatWest
Santander
Shawbrook
RBSIF
BREAL Zeta CF
Investec
BOOST&Co
Rcapital
ThinCats
OakNorth
Lloyds
Work highlights
- Advised HSBC on the provision of syndicated facilities for refinancing 22 of Dovehaven Group’s care homes.
- Advised Apiary Capital on the management buy-out of XVR and Learnpro Limited, financed by Santander.
- Advising OakNorth on its financing of Apprentify Group’s acquisition of NetcomTraining.
Browne Jacobson LLP > Firm Profile
THE FIRM
We’re Browne Jacobson. The law firm for positive impact across business and society.
Social and environmental impact are at the top of the business agenda. At Browne Jacobson, we’ve always worked across business and society, and this expertise sets us apart. Here, we champion fairness, make the complex simple and forge connections between clients to find creative solutions. This is how our lawyers improve outcomes for every person, community and business we serve.
Law needs all voices to reflect the society it serves. We’re working towards social mobility, diversity and inclusion in our firm – and our profession. And we’re focusing on well-being and individuality so that all our people can thrive.
PRINCIPAL AREAS OF WORK
Corporates
As a trusted adviser to some of the world’s most iconic corporations and their brands, the firm advises on complex corporate and commercial matters in a range of sectors including property, technology, construction and engineering, leisure, energy, logistics and automotive. The team sees itself as an extension of its clients’ legal teams, enabling it to advise on core business issues and provide responsive, pragmatic and commercial advice in areas such as corporate finance, IP and brand enforcement work, information technology, real estate, employment and commercial dispute resolution. The firm provides a comprehensive international service to its large corporate client base either operating within or seeking strategically to target overseas markets, drawing on membership of Pangea Net, an international network of independent law firms. We also have an enviable reputation for supporting both local entrepreneurs and family- and owner-managed, employee- or investor-led SMEs at all stages of the business life-cycle from start-up, capital and finance raising, through mergers and acquisitions, and ultimately to succession or exit planning. Its innovative ‘Grow’ programme for start-ups, focusing on advice, support and mentoring, has been a resounding success, particularly amongst the UK’s tech sector companies with disruptive business models. With well-established relationships with key intermediaries, financial institutions, industry bodies and the wider business community, the firm provides SMEs and entrepreneurs with a comprehensive legal service tailored to deliver growth, manage risk and ensure regulatory compliance.
Financial Services & Insurance
The firm’s financial services and insurance practice provides specialist strategic advice across the FS market, including acting for insurers, policy holders, intermediaries and private equity companies. The firm has clients across the London insurance and reinsurance markets and a growing presence in the fast-growing fintech and insurtech sub-sectors, as well as acting for many of the UK’s leading private equity houses. Specialist teams provide a complete range of services to clients across all business lines and in commercial, corporate and FCA regulatory matters. The firm’s leading expertise in complex non-contentious regulatory issues sees it working on business-critical conduct, prudential and governance matters, as well as ‘perimeter issues’ affecting financial services and other firms. The practice also boasts a dedicated disputes team that is recognised as a leader in litigation funding and finance and focuses on cross-border advisory and contentious services, including insolvency.
Government
At Browne Jacobson, we are thought leaders providing world-class advice on current and complex matters of government. Our years of expertise in business and society give us a unique insight into both public and private bodies. This — and our ability to forge strong relationships with governmental organisations — puts us at the centre of public sector modernisation; while our market-leading work in organisational change, the drive to carbon neutrality, digital transformation, regeneration and more, puts us at the forefront of society’s biggest issues.
Health
Public and independent health and social care have never been more intertwined. At Browne Jacobson, we’ve always worked across the public and independent health and social care sectors, powering the success of providers and regulators. Our unique experience of seamlessly connecting clients and enabling them to work collaboratively is what sets us apart. Across the full range of health and social care legal advice, and our defendant personal injury practice, our lawyers champion fairness, make the complex simple and find creative solutions. This is what gives us our leading reputation.
Education
Education is the foundation of our society. In a sector that’s undergone significant change, our experience sets us apart. Over the full range of practice areas, our lawyers champion fairness, make the complex simple and find creative solutions. As thought leaders and market leaders, we often work hand-in-hand with clients across the most complex, political and media-sensitive issues, and we’re dedicated to improving outcomes for every trust, school, institution and student we serve.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Senior partner | Caroline Green | ||
Managing partner | Richard Medd | ||
Academies and education | Mark Blois | ||
Academies and education | Nick Mackenzie | ||
Automotive | Giles Parsons | ||
Banking/security | Paul Ray | ||
Banking/security | Emma Hinton | ||
Branding and marketing | Bonita Trimmer | ||
Clinical negligence | Lorna Hardman | ||
Commercial litigation | Jonathan Tardif | ||
Company/commercial | Gavin Cummings | ||
Competition | Matthew Woodford | ||
Construction and engineering | Tim Claremont | ||
Corporate finance | Nigel Blackwell | ||
Corporate finance | Richard Cox | ||
Corporate finance | Gavin Cummings | ||
Counterfraud | Paul Wainwright | ||
Commercial Contracts | Emma Roake | ||
Data Protection | Richard Nicholas | ||
Employment | Peter Jones | ||
Energy | Selina Hinchliffe | ||
Energy | Paul Hill | ||
Environmental | Richard Barlow | ||
Financial Services | Jonathan Newbold | ||
Government | Peter Ware | ||
Health law | Gerard Hanratty | ||
Higher Education | Bettina Rigg | ||
Independent health | Clare Auty | ||
Information technology | Anthony Nagle | ||
Insurance | Jonathan Newbold | ||
Intellectual property | Declan Cushley | ||
Leisure | Caroline Green | ||
Leisure | Sarah Parkinson | ||
Life sciences | Giles Parsons | ||
Personal injury | Bridget Tatham | ||
PFI/projects | Craig Elder | ||
Planning | Laura Hughes | ||
Procurement | Peter Ware | ||
Professional indemnity | Derek Bambury | ||
Professional indemnity | Jonathan Newbold | ||
Property and development | Sarah Parkinson | ||
Government | Richard Barlow | ||
Retail | Caroline Green | ||
Retail | Sarah Parkinson | ||
Social housing | Barry Sully | ||
Taxation/trusts | Lucy Worwood | ||
Transport and logistics | Caroline Green | ||
Transport and logistics | Sarah Parkinson | ||
Transport and logistics | Nigel Lyons |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | James Arrowsmith | James leads our social care and safeguarding practice, which advises on childrens… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Jacqui Atkinson | Jacqui joined us as our national Head of Employment Healthcare in June… | View Profile |
![]() | Clare Auty | Clare is head of the Commercial Health Team and leads the Independent… | View Profile |
![]() | Helen Badger | Helen specialises in employment law and acts largely for public sector clients… | View Profile |
![]() | Sulthana Begum | Associate | View Profile |
![]() | Roger Birchall | Roger is an experienced corporate lawyer specialising in mergers and acquisitions and… | View Profile |
![]() | Jonathan Borer | Senior associate Jonathan’s confidence and commercial approach to complex transactions has seen… | View Profile |
![]() | Claire Bridgman | Claire is an associate in the Birmingham team, having trained at Browne… | View Profile |
![]() | Martin Cannon | Martin is a Partner with over 30 years of experience of advising… | View Profile |
![]() | James Coles | James is Head of our Property Litigation Department and has a wealth… | View Profile |
![]() | Lydia Cox | Lydia specialises in clinical negligence defendant litigation for the Medical Protection Society. | View Profile |
![]() | Mark Daniels | Mark specialises in contentious IP, leading the Browne Jacobson’s high tech patent… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Gareth Davies | Gareth leads our Private Equity practice in the West Midlands from our… | View Profile |
![]() | Matthew Dorman | Associate | View Profile |
![]() | Lucy Erskine | Lucy is a Senior Associate working in the Birmingham office. She works… | View Profile |
![]() | Richard Freeth | Richard has over 20 years’ experience in advising schools and local authorities… | View Profile |
![]() | Jonathan Fuggle | Jonathan is an experienced Defendant clinical negligence specialist and a Nominated Partner… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Kirk Glenn | Kirk specialises in corporate finance; advising private companies, individuals and institutions on… | View Profile |
![]() | Philip Gray | Philip leads the Birmingham Beds Sector team acting for public and private… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Clare Hanna | Clare is a senior associate in the corporate team. Recognised as a… | View Profile |
![]() | Matthew Harpin | Matthew was promoted to partner from 1st May 2019 and has over… | View Profile |
![]() | Ryan Harrison | Ryan is a commercial contracts specialist, with extensive experience in retail and… | View Profile |
![]() | Jonathan Hayden | Jonathan is a partner in Browne Jacobson’s commercial health group and advises… | View Profile |
![]() | Brian Hession | Brian Hession (partner) joined the Browne Jacobson team from Shoosmiths in April… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Hill | Paul Hill is a partner in the Banking and Finance team principally… | View Profile |
![]() | Emma Hinton | Emma heads up the Birmingham team and is well known in the… | View Profile |
![]() | Zo Hoida | Zo has over 20 years’ experience in real estate and projects, working… | View Profile |
![]() | Thomas Howard | Thomas has over 20 years’ experience advising public and private sector clients across… | View Profile |
![]() | Mike Hoye | Mike is a Legal Director who brings a wealth of experience to… | View Profile |
![]() | Christine Hughes | Christine is an Associate Solicitor in IPR defending personal injury claims. | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Mike Jackson | Mike specialises in corporate finance; advising public and private companies, individuals and… | View Profile |
![]() | Louise Jeffers | Louise Jeffers is a Senior Associate in the Health and Advisory Litigation… | View Profile |
![]() | Kevin Lawson | Kevin advises upon complex and catastrophic injury claims across EL, PL and… | View Profile |
![]() | Rachel Lyne | Rachel has a wealth of experience advising across a range of regulatory… | View Profile |
![]() | Nick MacKenzie | Nick leads the education team on corporate and governance matters. He is… | View Profile |
![]() | Sarah Manning | Sarah is a leading clinical negligence defence specialist. She leads a team… | View Profile |
![]() | Lydia Michaelson-Yeates | Lydia specialises in governance, academy projects, mergers and restructures together with general… | View Profile |
![]() | Rachael Morris | Rachael is a partner leading a team specialising in complex neurological injuries… | View Profile |
![]() | Scott Mounfield | Scott is a senior associate in the team with eight years PQE… | View Profile |
![]() | Joanne Mulvenna | Senor Associate, Joanne, specialises in personal injury, defendant litigation, employers liability, public liability… | View Profile |
![]() | Rachael Murphy | Senior Associate, Rachael, specialises in professional negligence, property damage and insurance coverage… | View Profile |
![]() | Richard Nicholas | Richard is a partner in the technology group working on large scale… | View Profile |
![]() | Andrew Noble | Andrew is a partner, head of the tax team, and is dual… | View Profile |
![]() | Hayley O'Sullivan | Hayley is a senior associate in the education team and the key… | View Profile |
![]() | Nicola Paterson | Associate, Nicola, has experience in dealing with a range of personal injury… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Ray | Paul is the head of the team and is a highly regarded… | View Profile |
![]() | Emma Rees | Emma is a Defendant Clinical Negligence Specialist with over 25 years’ experience… | View Profile |
![]() | Hannah Rice | Senior Associate, Hannah, specialises in personal injury law; supporting solicitor handling large… | View Profile |
![]() | Jade Rodwell | Jade is an Associate in the Birmingham Health, Advisory and Litigation team.… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Victoria Searle | Victoria is an associate in our admin law, environment & planning team.… | View Profile |
![]() | Sey Shabani | Sey is a Barrister (Associate) in the Insurance and Public Risk department.… | View Profile |
![]() | Pamela Shepherd | Pamela heads up the national property disputes team at Browne Jacobson. She… | View Profile |
![]() | Nick Smee | Nick is a Senior Associate in our Birmingham office. He specialises in… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Smith | Paul is a Senior Associate within the complex and serious injury claims… | View Profile |
![]() | Michael Stace | Partner, Michael, is an extremely experienced lawyer who specialises in corporate and… | View Profile |
![]() | Ben Standing | Ben is a rising star in our Planning and Environment Team. This… | View Profile |
![]() | Judith Stone | Judith is an Associate in the Construction team, based in Birmingham. Judith… | View Profile |
![]() | Dominic Swift | Dominic Swift is a partner in the Real Estate team and is… | View Profile |
![]() | James Tait | James is head of our Birmingham employment practice and a partner in… | View Profile |
![]() | Bridget Tatham | Bridget is an EL/PL defence specialist with expertise in the management of… | View Profile |
![]() | David Toulmin Van Sittert | David specialises in clinical negligence defendant litigation for the Medical Protection Society… | View Profile |
![]() | Bonita Trimmer | Bonita joined Browne Jacobson LLP in 2014 and was promoted to Legal… | View Profile |
![]() | Paul Wainwright | Paul is head of Counterfraud and intelligence at Browne Jacobson and jointly… | View Profile |
![]() | Emma Wake | Emma is a Senior Associate in the Construction team, based in Birmingham.… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Hannah Wallace | Hannah specialises in clinical negligence claims for NHS Resolution, within the Health… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Cynthia Watts | Cynthia has over 25 years’ experience defending public bodies, initially within the… | View Profile |
![]() | Lauren Webb | Lauren is a Partner in our commercial team specialising in specialises in… | View Profile |
![]() | Ms Sarah White | Sarah specialises in defending substantial clinical negligence actions, particularly relating to catastrophic… | View Profile |
![]() | Mr Philip Wood | Philip is a Senior Associate specialising in education law and has over… | View Profile |
![]() | Matthew Woodford | Matthew leads our EU and competition team where he advises on both… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 185 Number of other UK fee-earners : 650Diversity/Community
Browne Jacobson recognises the power of diversity and inclusion and the importance of reflecting the clients it serves and the communities in which it operates. The firm’s recognition as a top-five leading employer in the Social Mobility Employer Index is testament to its commitment to creating an inclusive workforce. The firm actively uses its position to help drive positive change in the legal sector and wider society.
Browne Jacobson makes sure it offers fair opportunities for all, promoting openness and knowledge-sharing between colleagues for inspiration and collaboration. Employees are genuinely committed to understanding each other’s lived experiences through the firm’s internal network REACH (Race, Ethnicity and Cultural Heritage), LGBTQ+ and Disability & Long Term Conditions – and through D&I training such as Conscious Inclusion & Anti- Racism which it has started to roll out across the firm, starting with its leadership.
An inclusive workplace values all employees for their strengths and unique abilities, which is why Browne Jacobson builds true inclusion by celebrating difference. The firm takes a broad view of disability, so its strategy addresses physical disability in addition to non-visible, neurodiversity, mental health, long-term and chronic conditions to help foster a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive.
Taking a data-driven approach enables the firm to understand the challenges that certain under-represented groups face and tailor its approach. The firm focuses on ensuring that its approach to diversity and inclusion continues to make an impact across all the lenses of diversity, including gender, gender identity, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, social economic status and carer/dependants.
This enables them to investigate possible inequalities, implement programmes to tackle any disparities, and measure the success of its diversity and inclusion strategy. The firm has signed up to The Law Society’s Women in Law pledge and the Business in the Community Race at Work charter to publicly advance its commitment to D&I with clear measurable actions to ensure impact.
The firm is dedicated to social mobility through its FAIRE (Fairer Access Into Real Experience) initiative and reports that:
- 3% of employees attended a UK state school.
- 46% were first generation in their family to attend university.
- 58% in its junior lawyer community are first generation in their families to go to university; this figure has risen from just 23% in 2019.
Through the FAIRE programme, Browne Jacobson offers 80 paid in-person work experience places each year, with a minimum of 50% of those places going to students of low socio-economic background and located within social mobility cold spots. The firm partners with clients, either through virtual presentations, where clients can share their knowledge with students, or by ring-fencing work experience opportunities that help support clients’ own supply-chain social mobility agendas.
The transparent approach, dedication to fairness and investment in its people reflects the real and lasting change the firm wants to instigate. The firm understands that the power of diversity can only be unlocked by creating an inclusive culture for all that is authentic.
Press Releases
Record financial results for Browne Jacobson as turnover hits £105m
2nd June 2023 UK & Ireland law firm has announced its financial results for 2022/23 with turnover rising 12% to a record £105m for the year ending 30 April 2023. These results include first year revenues from Browne Jacobson Ireland LLP.- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
- Public sector > Education
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Nottingham and Derby
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Nottingham and Derby
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Private finance initiative (PFI)
- Public sector
- Real estate > Commercial property: Nottingham and Derby
- Real estate > Construction
- Real estate > Planning and environment
- Real estate > Social housing
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport
- Public sector > Education: schools
- Public sector > Healthcare
- Public sector > Local government
- Public sector > Education
- Public sector > Health
- Public sector > Education
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Birmingham
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax
- Employment
- Employment > Health and safety
- Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy, project finance and PFI
- Public sector > Health
- Public sector > Local government
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- Employment
- Private client > Agriculture and estates
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Dispute resolution > Professional discipline
- Employment > Health and safety
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
- Public sector > Local government
- Employment > Employment: Dorset, Devon and Cornwall
- Employment > Health and safety
- Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence; defendant
Firm Rankings
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Real estate > Construction
- Real estate > Property litigation
- Industry focus > Retail and consumer
- Insurance > Clinical negligence: defendant
- Insurance > Personal injury: defendant
- Public sector > Education: institutions
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Manchester
- Employment
- Private client > Charities and not-for-profit
- Real estate > Commercial property: Manchester
- Public sector > Health
- Public sector > Local government
- Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham
- Real estate > Planning
- Corporate and commercial > M&A: smaller deals, up to £50m
- Corporate and commercial > Venture capital
- Insurance > Insurance and reinsurance litigation
- Insurance > Professional negligence
- Real estate > Construction: contentious
- Finance > Banking and finance
- Public sector > Administrative and public law
- Real estate > Construction: non-contentious
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment (including media finance)
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Manchester
- Public sector > Education: individuals
Firm Rankings
- East Midlands > TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
- East Midlands > TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport
- East Midlands > Real estate > Property litigation
- North West > Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: defendant
- South West > Public sector > Local government
- North West > Finance > Banking and finance