Clarion > Leeds, England > Firm Profile
Clarion Offices
ELIZABETH HOUSE
13-19 QUEEN STREET
LEEDS
LS1 2TW
England
Clarion > The Legal 500 Rankings
Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 1
Clarion acts for clients across a wide range of industries, straddling the public and private sectors in the property, construction, manufacturing, sport, and leisure arenas. The firm bolstered its offering with the addition of senior associate Charise Marsden in March 2022, who previously spearheaded the debt recovery team at Knights plc and continues to work with major clients in the construction and manufacturing sectors. Marsden joins practice head Daniel Carlton, who advises large-scale corporate and blue-chip companies in the UK on managing cash flows.Practice head(s):
Daniel Carlton
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘They are proactive, professional, polite and commercially aware and most importantly, act with speed. They also offer advice on the more difficult collections.’
‘They are always available and easily contacted by phone or email and always respond in a timely manner.’
‘The team at Clarion are always so helpful and will go above and beyond to ensure that you are up-to-date with any of the cases given and will help with advice whenever needed.’
‘I have known Charise Marsden for many years and no matter what her position has been within a company, she has always gone the extra mile to help. You know that you can always rely on her to help and give the best advice, and her service and dedication is second to none.’
‘The team provide the best service, nothing is too much trouble. They make you feel like you are their only client, and we never have to chase for updates.’
‘My confidence in Charise Marsden is immeasurable, so much so that our account will follow Charise wherever possible.’
Key clients
Encon Insulation Limited
Bruntwood Investments Limited
Northern Trust Company Limited
Hermes Parcelnet Ltd
Customade Limited
Aggregate Industries Uk Limited
Vink UK Limited
Eyre & Elliston Limited
Oak Tyres Limited
Tunstall Heathcare Limited
Hurst Plastics Ltd
Work highlights
- Assisting Aggregate Industries UK Limited on over 300 debts, and continuing to support the team with training and regular visits.
- Assisting Customade Group with the recovery of aged debt in excess of £1m and working with its Credit Control team to train the staff in best practice.
- Assisting Hermes Parcelnet Limited in reviewing its aged debt and existing credit control provisions, and providing a working solution to dovetail into collection procedures.
Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1
Clarion‘s Leeds-based business restructuring and insolvency team is led by Ryan Millmore, who specialises in administrations and restructuring assignments, with notable experience working with clients in the retail sector. Millmore acts as joint managing partner alongside ‘outstanding leader’ Roger Hutton, a specialist in pre-insolvency situations. Ben Slack regularly advises both insolvency practitioners and corporates on business and asset sales and acquisitions in the insolvency space. Alice Pratt's broad practice spans administrations, receiverships and liquidations. The team has particular strength in working for alternate and asset-based lenders. Senior associate Estelle Oates is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Ryan Millmore
Other key lawyers:
Roger Hutton; Alice Pratt; Ben Slack; Estelle Oates; Victoria Kay; Emma Lowe; Philip Mudd
Testimonials
‘Roger Hutton has a wealth of experience, a very sound commercial approach to solving issues and fantastic people skills, especially with lay clients.’
‘The team has great strength and depth. Particularly strong for contentious insolvency, with a number of very experienced individuals within the team. This I would say makes Clarion the lead contentious insolvency law firm in the region.’
‘Ryan Millmore, Emma Lowe, Estelle Oates and Alice Pratt all stand out as leading senior advisors in the contentious insolvency arena. All are both expert in their field and user friendly. Roger Hutton also remains highly regarded for his wisdom and experience; also his market contacts within both insolvency and Yorkshire commerce more widely.’
‘Clarion’s insolvency team is a unique and dynamic group of lawyers who are passionate about helping clients navigate the complexities of insolvency and restructuring matters. The team has a wealth of experience in advising a broad range of clients, including insolvency practitioners, creditors, directors, and individuals, across a variety of industries.’
‘What sets Clarion’s insolvency team apart is their commitment to finding innovative and commercial solutions to complex insolvency issues. They understand that every client and situation is unique, and they work closely with clients to tailor their advice to their specific needs and goals. The team is known for its proactive and strategic approach, and they are not afraid to take a creative and collaborative approach to problem solving.’
‘I have dealt particularly with Ryan Millmore, Estelle Oates and Emma Lowe. They are all fantastic and are my favourite Leeds-based law firm for onsolvency. They are superb in their approach to cases and I would recommend them to anyone.’
‘Roger Hutton is an outstanding leader: excellent judgment, very collaborative, knows when to speak and when to listen.’
‘Emma Lowe is extremely hard working, very personable and devoted to her client’s cause. Roger Hutton is very creative, has sound legal and commercial knowledge, and knows when (as partner) he needs to get involved, and when not.’
Key clients
Interpath (formerly KPMG)
Begbies Traynor
Teneo (formerly Deloitte)
RSM
Armstrong Watson
Ernst & Young
Mazars
FRP Advisory LLP
Alvarez & Marsal
Kingsbridge Corporate Solutions Limited
Leonard Curtis
Manolete
Orsted Power
Frasers Group
Leo Group
Baker Tilly
Opus
Work highlights
- Advising Redcentric on its acquisition of Sunguard Availability (UK) Services from its administrators Teneo.
- Advising Frasers Group on its acquisition of the business and assets of online fashion retailer Missguided.
- Acting for VE Vegas Investors IV in a £126m claim against former administrators.
Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 1
Lynsey Harrison, ‘a national figure who is respected by all’, leads the contentious private client team at Clarion in Leeds. The team is made up entirely of ACTAPS members, and works on complex, high value disputes. Alongside dealing with disputes around the administration of estates, the team also regularly deals with contentious Court of Protection matters including financial abuse of the elderly. Clients benefit from access to Clarion’s wider private client services, including private wealth and family teams. Legal director Louise Dodds is recommended for her ‘impeccable’ judgement, alongside ‘outstanding’ senior associate Nicholas Choiniere.Practice head(s):
Lynsey Harrison
Other key lawyers:
Louise Dodds; Nicholas Choiniere; Samantha Richardson
Testimonials
‘Clarion have an unparalleled team in terms of depth and breadth of expertise in this area. As well as probate disputes they deal with complex trust disputes to a greater extent than any other firm in this area (in my experience). They can compete with any firm in London.’
‘Lynsey Harrison leads the team. She is a national figure who is respected by all. Louise Dodds is highly experienced and she can deal with trust disputes of the utmost complexity. Her judgment and understanding of complex disputes is impeccable. Nicholas Choiniere is an up and coming lawyer who shows great understanding and client handling skills.’
‘Clarion combine legal expertise with practical solutions to get the best possible outcome for clients.’
‘I have been very impressed with Nicholas Choiniere’s grasp of the more technical aspects of the cases we have worked on together. He is also very good with putting nervous clients at ease and explaining difficult concepts in layman terms.’
‘Taking the right amount of time at the outset to understand both the legal issues and the relationship issues, helping me to find the correct balance and teaching me to understand how to take back control in a challenging situation. They are thoughtful and thorough.’
‘Lynsey Harrison is a figurehead for contentious probate litigation in Yorkshire. She is committed to her clients and empathetic to the problems they face. Nicholas Choiniere is a talented associate and very responsive to communications.’
‘They are light on their feet and nimble in their approach. They offer good value for money. They are very keen to ensure client satisfaction.’
‘Lynsey Harrison is a genuine expert in a highly specialised area. Lynsey has built a strong team which communicates well and shows real commitment to client care.’
Private client > Family: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Tier 1
Clarion’s ‘absolutely phenomenal’ family team in Leeds is led by Justine Osmotherley, and works across complex financial and children cases. It has particular expertise serving business owners and professionals, including pre- and post-nuptial agreements. The team’s children work includes relocation, findings of fact and a notable focus on surrogacy work and key practitioner Sarah Manning is a trained mediator, which supports the team’s ‘real emphasis on alternatives’ to court. Since publication, Jane Ingleby has moved to Mills & Reeve LLP.Practice head(s):
Justine Osmotherley; Jane Ingleby
Other key lawyers:
Siobhan Jeffels; Stephanie Douthwaite; Sarah Manning; Charlotte Davies; Bronwyn Warmington; Grace Parker.
Testimonials
‘Clarion has a well regarded family team with a wealth of experience and expertise.’
‘I have known Siobhan Jeffels since before she qualified. She stood out then, and she stands out now. She is bright and personable – a very able family lawyer who quickly understands the issues and works hard to resolve them for the benefit of the client, all without the ego which can so often get in the way of getting the most cost-effective outcome for clients.’
‘Justine Osmotherley is an intelligent and pragmatic family lawyer with enormous experience of family law.’
‘Siobhan Jeffels is outstanding. A very steady hand to guide you. Always seeks a non-confrontational approach and strives for the best outcome for her clients.’
‘The team have been absolutely phenomenal from the beginning. They really took the time to look into my case thoroughly and never missed any details out. They were always one step ahead and extremely organised.’
‘Very high-quality modern progressive practice. Staff are very well resourced and happy to work in an environment where it is clear to see that they are valued and celebrated.’
‘They are incredibly responsive in an emergency situation. Their extracurricular training is comprehensive and this contributes to there being an enthusiastic ethos you don’t really see in many places.’
‘They are pro-active in arranging events and training, and it’s all high-quality stuff. They don’t just do court – a real emphasis on alternatives – including arbitration and mediation and they support clients with mental health and well-being.’
Work highlights
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1
The intellectual property practice at Clarion excels at handling international mandates for clients in the biotechnology, manufacturing and retail sectors, among others. The practice is very active in commercial IP matters, frequently advising on the IP aspects of corporate acquisitions as well as regularly assisting with IP portfolio management. Additionally, the team frequently acts in cross-border disputes related to IP infringement claims. Esther Kirwan, who leads the team, is an expert in international IP work and regularly works on portfolio management work as well as patent litigation. Sue Streatfield is a key contact for contentious work and maintains close relations with clients in the chemical and biotechnology sectors. Lindsey Wrenn and Sarah Molloy, who excel at advising on trade mark protection, are also highly recommended.Practice head(s):
Esther Kirwan
Other key lawyers:
Lindsey Wrenn; Sue Streatfield; Sarah Molloy; Jemma Green
Testimonials
‘The Clarion IP team is able to provide coverage for our requirements that is more comprehensive than larger international firms are able to provide.’
‘Esther Kirwan has the calm assurance gained from experience at national firms.’
‘The people I have had the chance to work with have been extremely professional and obviously know what they are doing. They are easy to work with and are willing to listen to recommendations. It is always a pleasure interacting with their team.’
‘It is always easier to work with highly professional people, especially if they are also pleasant. I think that Lindsey Wrenn stands out in this respect.’
‘We use Clarion for the management of our trade mark portfolio and find them to be efficient and helpful.’
‘Lindsey Wrenn is very clear in her advice, bearing in mind our business objectives.’
‘Very experienced and professional team, quickly understanding both the product/service and the aims of the applicant in seeking IP advice.’
‘Esther Kirwan is experienced in both domestic/European and US IP. Clear and easy to interpret advice.’
Key clients
Card Factory
Evri
Frasers Group Plc
Freeman Grattan Holdings
Genuit Group Plc
Neom Limited
Orion Publishing Group Limited
Safestyle UK
Vensys Energy AG
Vichugo, Inc
Work highlights
- Acted for a subsidiary of a UK plc in a High Court claim for IP infringement, breach of confidence, and breach of restrictive covenants and of fiduciary duties.
- Acted for OPM Advance Ltd in the successful enforcement of its patents for a cutting-edge development against infringers in the UK and abroad.
- Advised Neom’s on the management of its global IP portfolio, including on agreements and the enforcement of its IP.
Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Tier 2
Clarion’s corporate and commercial team handles a full spectrum of matters. On the corporate side, it is particularly active in the digital and technology sector, as well as in the waste sector. Richard Moran heads the corporate group, with considerable expertise in handling M&A and private equity matters, and is supported by Jonathan Simms and legal director Tony Berry. Matthew Hattersley leads the commercial practice and handles IT and technology-related matters. Legal director Sarah Harrison is also noted for her expertise in the digital marketing sector.Practice head(s):
Richard Moran; Matthew Hattersley
Other key lawyers:
Key clients
Redcentric plc
Mattresses Online
Effective Security Services Limited
Mina Digital Limited
Craggs Holdings Limited
Sovereign Wealth LLP
The shareholders of Electron Group
Assisi Pet Care Limited
Thermocable (Flexible Elements) Limited
Hark Systems Ltd
Acumen Group Holdings Limited
Solutionpath Limited
Imperagen Limited
H&M Distribution Limited
EPMS Holdings Limited
Hemingways Marketing Services Limited
Nichols plc
Card Factory plc
EZ Teamsports
Augustus Martin Limited
IMA Agency
47 Skin
The Property Buying Company Limited
Highfield Awarding Body for Compliance Limited
My Expert Midwife
EcoHedge
Ligentia plc
Expect Distribution
Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 2
The team at Clarion has expertise in shareholder, technology-related disputes, judicial review, and multi-million pound contract and supply chain disputes. International disputes are another mainstay of the practice, courtesy of ‘best friend’ relationships with overseas law firms. Simon Young, founding partner of the firm, is the head of the team, with vast experience advising and international clients. ‘Commercial, efficient and astute’ David Williams is a name to note. Legal director Kayleigh Fantoni handles high-value claims, leading the firm's financial litigation offering.Practice head(s):
Simon Young
Other key lawyers:
David Williams; Aby Milner; Dominic Higham; Kayleigh Fantoni
Testimonials
‘Clarion is an excellent firm. Clients particularly like their relaxed and informal approach, but also the excellent legal advice and commercial approach to everything they do. They do very high value cases but always keep costs in mind. And have a great team atmosphere which makes clients feel comfortable and always receiving top work product. David Williams and Aby Milner are particularly excellent.’
‘David Williams is highly experienced, an excellent lawyer, very laid back but also commercial, efficient and astute.’
‘Good clear and concise advice. The Clarion team take time to listen to what you wish to achieve and then build the legal strategy and approach around this.’
‘Dominic Higham is approachable and takes time to understand the business. This sets him apart from competitors who merely want to ‘earn the fees’. Dominic has taken the time to understand our company’s solutions and even visited one of our customer sites to see our facilities in operation. This enables him to understand our issues through the lens of our strategic objectives.’
Key clients
Intersystems
Sports Direct
Continental AG and Dunlop Oil and Marine
Fraser Group
Evri/Hermes Parcels
Redcentric plc
LNT Group
Caddick Group Plc
The Shard
SBFM
RN Restaurant Group
Troy Food Salads Ltd
Vanguard Healthcare Solutions
Work highlights
- Advising the Continental AG on issues arising under various contracts to deliver sub-sea hoses and related service for $multi-billion liquid natural gas projects off the coasts of Western Australia, Brazil and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 2
Stephanie Parish and Gareth Marland lead the ‘swift and comprehensive’ private wealth team at Clarion in Leeds. The team sits within the single-site firm’s wider private client services offering, which provides clients with a holistic service through cross-departmental collaboration, notably with the corporate and commercial team. It advises on pre-sale inheritance tax / trusts planning, and assists families on complex lifetime affairs. In addition, the team is well equipped to handle probate cases including complex, high-value assets, specifically with regard to agricultural and farming family issues. Clare King leads the firm’s Court of Protection and personal injury trusts department.Practice head(s):
Stephanie Parish; Gareth Marland; Clare King
Testimonials
‘The team has a nice blend and mix of experience and youth. They are all extremely personable, friendly and professional.’
‘Gareth Marland has a relaxed and easy way about him and is always prepared to think outside the box to deliver appropriate solutions for his clients. He has considerable technical expertise, which provides great reassurance.’
‘Gareth Marland stands out as an exceptional professional operating in the Leeds market, his service to clients is excellent, and he has a unique ability to make complex matters easier to digest.’
‘Gareth Marland is quick to respond to e-mails/phone calls. He is confident in meetings and able to explain complex legal issues in a manner that is understandable to clients. He is pragmatic in his approach to issues and is comfortable working collaboratively with financial advisors and accountants.’
‘Clarion has an experienced and highly regarded team for private client work.’
‘Gareth Marland is an experienced and personable lawyer who deals with high-value and complex work, and the whole team are a delight to work with.’
‘Always offering a swift and comprehensive service.’
‘Clare King is an excellent communicator. Down to earth and always willing to go the extra mile.’
Key clients
Estate of the late Mr J W Heselden OBE
Work highlights
Projects, energy and natural resources (including PFI) > Energy and projects Tier 2
Clarion's energy, projects and infrastructure practice is regularly instructed to handle complex energy and low carbon infrastructure projects, acting for a client roster of regional, national and international companies. Other key areas of expertise including handling oil and gas exploration and production mandates, joint ventures and supply and pricing disputes. Christian Hellmund and David Williams jointly lead the practice; Hellmund excels in non-contentious energy projects and Williams focuses on energy sector disputes and has notable knowledge of oil exploration disputes involving Africa. Paul Matthews joined the practice in late 2022, expanding the firm's regulatory offering.Practice head(s):
Christian Hellmund; David Williams
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The team that looked after us in particular were very friendly, competent, professional.’
‘Clarion provide us with an information hub where we can dip into at any point to inform decisions. Clarion treat you as a friend rather than a customer/client. Their communication is first rate and they put your needs first. Having interacted with a number of firms over the years, I believe they provide the best overall service.’
‘Christian Hellmund has been excellent at providing commercial advice in addition to infra/energy industry knowledge. He is very pragmatic and provides options clearly laying out the risks and opportunities of how to proceed.’
Key clients
Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies
Leo Group Limited
LBBC Limited
Bayford Group
Wilson Power Solutions
Winder Power
Leonard Curtis Business Rescue and Recovery
Acumen Waste Services Limited
Vensys Energy AG
Etgas/Enertecgreen Limited
GF Genovate Ltd
Kinetic Renewable Services Limited
Xrenewable Limited
Chameleon Technology Holdings
Continental AG
Solar21
Greentech Energy
Advanced Generation Limited
LCM Environmental
Greenarc Energy
Craggs Energy
Orsted Power Sales
Port of Mostyn
Goldbeck Solar
Carlton Forest Group
We Power Your Car
Future Earth Energy
Work highlights
- Advising Goldbeck Solar with the negotiation of an engineering, procurement and construction contract for an 8MW solar farm at Carn Nicholas Farm, Wales.
- Advising Port of Mostyn in respect of a large tidal stream project to be constructed at the Dee estuary (North Wales) and able to deliver baseline renewable energy.
- Advising the Continental AG group on issues arising under various contracts to deliver sub-sea hoses for $multi-billion liquid natural gas projects off the coasts of Western Australia, Brazil and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Real estate > Commercial property: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 2
Clarion‘s real estate team is noted for its expertise in residential matters, where it has established itself as ‘a leading player‘ in the region. Noted for its wide roster of development clients, including strategic housebuilders and housing associations, the team is frequently instructed to handle the full life cycle of high-value and complex residential developments. Key contacts in the team for development work include Lindsay Texel as well as practice head Martin Grange, who is also a key contact for joint ventures and asset transfers. For real estate finance matters, Ben Lamb and Simon Mydlowski are further names to note. Alison Batty, a residential development expert who also handles commercial transactions, is also recommended.Practice head(s):
Martin Grange
Other key lawyers:
Lindsay Texel; Ben Lamb; Simon Mydlowski; Alison Batty; Parul Hargreaves; Sean Meehan
Testimonials
‘Clarion have established themselves as a leading player in the legal property sector in the region. They have significantly expanded their capacity and enhanced their offer with the recruitment of a number of senior, high-quality individuals. They are very aware of the challenges and opportunities in the sector and have a very customer-focused offer, whilst maintaining strong relationships with fellow property professionals.’
‘Martin Grange is an experienced and personable individual who leads the team with distinction. Lindsay Texel is a highly competent and approachable property lawyer with a refreshing ‘can do’ attitude. Parul Hargreaves is an experienced and dedicated property lawyer who displays high levels of customer service.’
‘Clarion have a unique way of engaging with clients to really understand their businesses. Their partners are encouraged to spend time getting to know their clients and their businesses, so as to better advise on general business matters and not just focus on legal issues. This information is then disseminated across the team so that everyone working on my matters has a good, in-depth understanding of what drives us and what matters to us.’
‘I deal with Martin Grange (partner), Alison Batty (Legal Director) and Sean Meehan (Associate). Martin is an exceptional partner, always willing to step in and give commercial advice at short notice. Alison and Sean deliver a fantastic level of service and are always available to discuss things and to proactively push matters forwards.’
‘Simon Mydllowski is extremely strong in his commercial approach to each deal and offers a real belief and determination to hit a deadline. He is a problem solver! He finds a solution every time, and his communication is brilliant. Without Simon, we would not be the company we are today.’
Key clients
ASICS
ATC Properties Limited
Aldermore Bank plc
Arc Inspirations Limited
Avant Homes
Berkeley de Veer Limited
Brook Taverner Limited
Candelisa Limited
Close Brothers Limited
Countryside Properties (UK) Limited
Emerald Property Developments (Yorkshire) Limited
Frank Marshall Estates Limited
HSBC UK Bank plc
HSN Care Limited
Hampshire Trust Bank plc
Harron Homes Ltd
Hill Giftware Ltd
Ilke Homes Limited
Illuminating Investments Limited
KMRE Group Ltd
Leeds Beckett University
Leeds and London Properties Limited
Masons Gin Limited
McCarthys Removals and Storage
Mott MacDonald
N. Peal Limited
Newby Investments Limited
Newett Homes Limited
Oaknorth Bank plc
Opus North
Persimmon Homes Ltd
Redefine Paragon Square (Hull) Limited (Hammonds of Hull)
Renewable Land Resources Limited
Rougemont Limited
Rusty Rabbit International Limited
Strata Homes Ltd
TFP Group Limited
Tate Estates Limited
The Ground Group Limited
The Mosaic Tile Company Limited
The Piece Hall Trust
The Wentworth Charity
Tile Giant Limited
Tolent Living Ltd
Transwaste Limited
V & A Homes
Warburtons Limited
Wolds Produce Limited
Yorkshire Housing Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Frasers Group Plc on its acquisition of the business and assets of Missguided Ltd (in administration) for £20m.
- Advised Oaknorth plc on the provision of development finance to The Scarborough Group plc for the development of part of Thorpe Park Estate in the sum of £25.4m.
- Acting for L & S Leeds Limited, the inbound subsidiary of a Singapore Fund, on the multi-million pound acquisition of a landmark Leeds City Centre building.
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2
The highly regarded team at Clarion provides ‘commercially focused, pragmatic advice’ to a large roster of contractors and suppliers in the IT and fintech sectors, which instruct the team to handle key services arrangements in connection with the provision of technology solutions. The team is also active on transactional matters, acting on major acquisitions in the IT sector, and is also capable of advising clients on the procurement of new IT infrastructure. Matthew Hattersley, who advises on high-value procurements and outsourcing initiatives, co-leads the team with litigator Dominic Higham, who extends the firm’s offering to clients seeking advice in contractual disputes. Commercial IT expert David Cunningham is also highly recommended.Practice head(s):
Matthew Hattersley; Dominic Higham
Other key lawyers:
David Cunningham; Charlie Smith
Testimonials
‘Commercially focused, pragmatic advice without the fuss. The team is comfortable in its own skin and operates with no ego.’
‘David Cunningham is an extremely knowledgeable technology and commercial lawyer. He has an unassuming style and just gets on with the job. David is very client-focused but not overbearing. For technology-specific advice, he is my go-to lawyer.’
‘Matt Hattersley is a safe pair of hands. Calm collected and very pragmatic. Very easy to work with. Charlie Smith is up-and-coming within the firm. Very good at looking at all angles of an issue to allow her to focus on the right issues.’
‘Clarion has always seemed a genuine and happy place to work. Everyone I’ve met has an incredible passion for the firm, which comes through in the advice and work provided.’
‘Actual interest in the relationship and my business. Commercial advice always.’
Key clients
Alliot Technologies Limited
Card Factory plc
Cellhire Limited
EcoHedge Limited
Hemingways Marketing Services Limited
InterSystems Corporation
Ligentia plc
Money Alive Limited
Redcentric plc
Vocalink Limited (Mastercard)
Dispute resolution > Costs lawyers Tier 2
One of the UK’s largest specialists in cost management and Court of Protection costs litigation, Clarion is highly regarded for its ‘second to none expertise and exemplary quality of work.’ In Leeds, Andrew McAulay is highly experienced in assessment proceedings, solicitor/own client assessments and litigation funding, particularly in relation to Conditional Fee Agreements. Director Stephanie Kaye leads the Court of Protection costs offering. Fellow director Joanne Chase is recommended for high value bills of costs claims.Practice head(s):
Andrew McAulay; Stephanie Kaye; Joanne Chase
Testimonials
‘All members of the team are very approachable, and they are very swift in their responses. The work that has been done for my team has been of good quality, and the team are always happy to discuss any questions that we may have.’
‘Clarion are leaders in the field for court of protection costs matters. Their expertise is second to none and the quality of their work is exemplary.’
‘The team has a broad range of experience. If you have a costs issue, you can find a solution there. I think they are well regarded in the industry.’
‘Lead partner Andrew McAulay is excellent. He provides strong leadership to his team and is very knowledgeable. I trust his judgment.’
‘I have liaised with Stephanie Kaye the most and I have found her lovely to speak with and very knowledgeable. Stephanie will answer any queries that the team have and nothing is too much trouble.’
‘Always available to deal with any costs issue, whether simple or complex.’
‘Stephanie Kaye always has time to help out. Incredibly knowledgeable, and a lovely person to work with. Andrew McAulay is a lovely guy. Andrew goes above and beyond to help our clients. Fantastic approach.’
‘I have worked regularly with the costs team. All members of the team are very approachable and they are very swift in their responses. The work that has been done for my team has been of good quality and the team are always happy to discuss any questions that we may have.’
Key clients
Freeths
Aughton Ainsworth
Babbe LLP
Taylor Emmet LLP
Amber Valley Borough Council
Higgs LLP
Walker Morris LLP
Hodge Jones & Allen
Anthony Gold
Bolt Burdon
Work highlights
- Instructed by Amber Valley Borough Council which faced with an unexpected and large claim for costs of £200k. We successfully managed to reduce the claim to circa £100k, saving the council significant monies which they have been able to reinvest into public services.
- Instructed by Aughton Ainsworth in a Prepared Points of Dispute on a complex insolvency matter where the bill of costs totalled over £2.3 million. Formulated a strategy to avoid a draconian sanction of the client being ordered to pay the bill of costs in full.
- Advised Babbe LLP on a claim for costs arising from the Royal Court of Guernsey. The claim had many complex issues and amounted to circa. £196,000. Our advice achieved a stellar result for the client with them reaching settlement at £80,000.
Employment > Employment: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 3
Clarion provides a range of employment services, with capabilities across litigation, business immigration, and strategy. It is particularly noted for the strength of the training that it provides to its clients. Sarah Tahamtani heads the team and is highly experienced in advising the boards and management of international corporate clients. He is supported by Chris Booth, whose particular expertise is in board-level departures. Below partner level, Deborah Warren has experience in restructuring and redundancies; Joanna Dodd is active in litigation and strategy; and Suzanne Treen has an established track record in discrimination and whistleblowing claims.Practice head(s):
Sarah Tahamtani
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘The employment team are a pleasure to instruct. They take the time to understand clients’ businesses and tailor their advice to meet client needs.’
Employment > Health and safety Tier 3
Clarion provides a range of services for a number of major national clients, with capabilities across training, compliance, diagnostics, and audit work, in addition to a strong track record in contentious matters. Paul Matthews has joined the firm as the new practice head from DWF in September 2022, bringing his extensive experience in high-profile mandates as the head of the regulatory team there. He works alongside Lucy Alderson, who has the benefit of a secondment with a major retailer.Finance > Banking and finance Tier 3
Marie Pugh leads Clarion's Leeds-based banking and finance group. The team specialises in alternative finance, real estate development and investment finance, as well as corporate banking work. Ben Slack spearheads the team’s asset-based lending work, including refinancing and debt restructuring work.Practice head(s):
Marie Pugh
Other key lawyers:
Ben Slack; Philip Dine; Andrew Curtis; Carly Brown
Key clients
HSBC Bank UK plc
Shawbrook Bank plc
National Westminster Bank plc
Aldermore Bank plc
Hampshire Trust Bank plc
Reward Finance Group Limited
Thincats (ESF Loans Limited, TC Loans I Limited, TC Loans II Limited and TC Funding Limited)
SME Lending Limited
Secure Trust Bank plc
TFG Capital Limited
Oaknorth Bank plc
Meridian Structured Finance Limited
Cynergy Business Finance Limited
Weetwood Capital Limited
Virgin Money
Baaj Capital LLP
Time Finance plc (Time Property Finance Limited and Time Invoice Finance Limited)
Ultimate Finance Limited
Fresh Thinking Capital Limited
Skipton Business Finance Limited
ABLrate Assets Limited
Reparo Finance Limited
A Shade Greener Finance
DF Capital Bank Limited
One Stop Business Finance Limited
Work highlights
- Advised The ParkLane Group on its restructuring and new lending facilities to support its successful growth strategy.
- Advised Redcentric on its refinancing and renewal of £100m banking facilities with a four-bank syndicate including National Westminster Bank, Barclays Bank, Bank of Ireland and Silicon Valley Bank.
- Advised Aldermore Bank on a seven-figure funding package to support the MBO of Unite People and future growth.
Real estate > Planning Tier 3
Clarion acquired planning boutique LB & Co in spring 2023, a deal which saw highly experienced duo Carolyn Lord and Kate Butterfield join the Leeds firm's real estate group. Lord is known for her 'creative approach to site development projects' and 'an eye for effective public sector stakeholder engagement', while Butterfield is praised for her 'incisive legal advice'. Their track record of work covers applications and appeals, highway and rights of way law, and compulsory purchase orders.Practice head(s):
Carolyn Lord
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Carolyn Lord is a versatile and a valuable addition to any project team, bringing legal expertise but also a creative approach to site development projects, with an eye for effective public sector stakeholder engagement.’
‘Kate Butterfield is excellent in offering incisive legal advice which has assisted us in drawing a line under obstacles as we progress through projects.’
‘The overriding positives of working with the team are attention to detail and a personal service. They are fully vested in your scheme and take time to understand your aspirations, working practices and ambitions.’
‘I have worked extensively with Carolyn Lord. Her dedication to a role that she understands in forensic detail is stand-out. She is flexible, responds to requests for work immediately and is extremely thorough.’
‘Deep understanding of planning law and case examples for a wide range of matters. Attention to detail. Excellent client relationships.’
‘This is a no-nonsense, commercially minded planning and development practice, always able to offer practical and timely advice when required.’
Key clients
CEG (Commercial Estates Group)
GMI Properties Limited
Litton Properties
DB Cargo (UK) Limited
Brett Aggregates Limited
Eurovia Infrastructure Limited
Olympian Homes
Godwin Developments
TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport Tier 3
Clarion‘s multidisciplinary sports practice is composed of lawyers with experience handling commercial contracts and sponsorships, contractual disputes, insolvencies, and M&A mandates for sportswear brands, clubs and sports venue clients. Led by senior partner Richard Moran, who handles transactional matters, the team has strong local connections with Yorkshire clients such as Harrogate Town. Commercial lawyer Charlie Smith is also recommended, as is IP specialist Esther Kirwan.Practice head(s):
Richard Moran
Other key lawyers:
Matthew Hattersley; Charlie Smith; Esther Kirwan
Key clients
Harrogate Town
Outward Bound Trust
Real estate > Construction Tier 4
Clarion‘s construction practice retains a solid and broad workload that encompasses contentious and non-contentious work and caters to clients in the energy, education and healthcare sectors, among others. The team is particularly well versed in fire safety and cladding issues and regularly advises on risk management in relation to residential and commercial developments, as well as handling disputes in relation to fire safety defects. Practice head Phil Morrison, who primarily assists with procurement and building contracts, is very experienced in advising on fire regulations, while Siobhan Dexter is a key contact for energy projects and TCC disputes.Practice head(s):
Phil Morrison
Other key lawyers:
Siobhan Dexter; Humera Rashid
Real estate > Property litigation Tier 4
Clarion fields a ‘brilliant team of high-quality lawyers’ that handles a large volume of claims related to repossessions, while also counting landlord and tenant disputes in its caseload. The team is capable of advising on a wide range of dilapidations and rent arrears claims, with practice head Sophie Morley regularly instructed to handle contentious work in the context of property portfolio management. Transactional and development disputes are further areas of expertise for the practice. Natalie Brierley and Philip Feather departed the practice in October 2022 and January 2023, respectively, while the firm recently welcomed Lisa Stratford from Irwin Mitchell and Kate Joss from DWF.Practice head(s):
Sophie Morley
Other key lawyers:
Paige Duller; Kate Joss; Lisa Stratford
Testimonials
‘I get the impression that Sophie Morley is building a very strong property litigation department in Leeds. Clarion appears to be attracting talent with an offer of good quality work and the offer of a department that is ‘going places.’
‘Sophie Morley leads the department. She was plainly able to quickly assimilate the information of my case, understand the problem and to work with me to find a solution. I have also worked with Paige Duller on a number of cases at Clarion. She is a very competent lawyer.’
‘Clarion’s individuals are highly astute, forthright in their advice, always available, highly professional and have a complete understanding of what their clients are trying to achieve.’
‘Sophie Morley is a highly experienced and professional adviser who provides clear and actionable advice which is both commercial and analytical at all times. Sophie is very hard-working and grasps all issues at hand in real time to protect her clients first and foremost. Kate Joss is highly intelligent, grasps the entire situation very quickly and is forthright and determined in her views.’
‘It’s a brilliant team of high-quality lawyers. They are really client-friendly and proactive in how they deal with cases. They fight hard but don’t waste time on taking pointless arguments.’
‘Sophie Morley is top class – the best property litigator in Yorkshire. Paige Duller is very canny tactically.’
‘The team are all very friendly and commercially minded. In conference with clients, it is apparent that they quickly appreciate the issues which are important to the client, and work well devising a litigation strategy.’
‘Sophie Morley is very easy to get along with, and works very hard for her clients. She is good at taking the advice from counsel, and explaining it to the lay client in terms relevant to them. Lisa Stratford has a great knowledge of landlord and tenant litigation, and uses this to devise realistic litigation strategies for her clients.’
Key clients
Done Brothers Limited (Betfred)
Eddisons Commercial Limited
Fujifilm
Tile Giant Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Tile Giant on its nationwide portfolio of properties for issues including lease renewals, dilapidations, consent applications and service charge disputes.
- Acted for a high-profile Yorkshire leisure occupier on the completion of several conditions necessary for the client to successfully serve a break notice.
Clarion > Firm Profile
Clarion is a key player in Yorkshire, with a national and international reputation. Based in Leeds, it serves and supports businesses all over the United Kingdom and in over 75 countries worldwide. Geography simply isn’t a constraint and,
when a face-to-face meeting is required, the lawyers will always be prepared to travel to ensure the best outcome for their clients.
For Clarion it’s all about the relationship. It knows that strong partnerships create energy and deliver results. It has a team of experienced, talented and committed people who want to get to know their clients.
They make it a priority to invest time in getting to know the client and their business. They want to understand the real issues, rather than just serving immediate needs. That way, they can provide the insight and expertise your
business really needs and understand where they can best add value so we can invest in your success.
It believes that every business can, and should, play an active and valuable role in supporting the community in which it works. It has dedicated teams that run programmes to support the community via volunteering and sponsorships. Accepting their responsibilities for the environment in which they live, their working practices and supporting their community brings benefits all can enjoy. It is particularly proud of its 15 year sponsorship and involvement with the Jane Tomlinson Appeal and Run For All.
It has a substantial, active and growing in-house counsel network providing regular support with a programme of training events, in-house counsel lunches and other networking opportunities.
Its main objective is to uphold its core values and provide outstanding service.
Types of work undertaken
Corporate: offering the full range of corporate finance work, including mainstream mergers and acquisitions, acting for banks and other financial institutions in the provision of acquisition finance facilities, advising international clients and entrepreneurs on expansion and start-up structures.
Commercial and IT: working with a diverse range of clients throughout the UK and internationally, the firm partners clients on complex deals in relation to commercial and IT contracts; information law; business models; trading and
e-commerce advice; outsourcing; and competition.
Data and information law: failing to comply with GDPR is one of the most serious risks a business can face. We ensure businesses have the necessary processes, procedures and documents in place to be compliant. We
advise on the initial stage of conducting a data mapping exercise. We analyse the results of a data audit on a risk assessment basis and determine the extent of GDPR compliance.
Intellectual property: acknowledged local and international experts, the firm assists with the identification, protection, exploitation and enforcement of rights in patents, designs, trade marks, copyright, databases, confidential information and related rights.
Real estate: the established team has long-term personal relationships across a wide range of sectors, with particular expertise in commercial and residential developments, leisure, corporate occupier and secured lending. The team includes expertise in planning, construction and real estate litigation.
Dispute resolution: a long-established, highly regarded and experienced team dealing with every type of dispute: managed, negotiated and, where necessary, rigorously litigated with its hallmark tough and unwavering focus.
Business restructuring and insolvency: one of the leading corporate recovery and insolvency legal teams in the North of England, the highly regarded team is uniquely placed to offer national experience on a personal level for institutions, companies and individuals.
Regulatory: the team has extensive experience of supporting clients in their response to incidents – creating the mechanisms by which to investigate without self-incrimination and to learn lessons to prevent recurrence. And where prosecution follows, provide representation through the court process that is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome.
Private client: the successful team deals with the full private client remit, from wills and trusts, the protection of vulnerable relatives or loss of mental capacity, to critical tax planning, wider wealth management and business succession.
Family: it undertakes the full range of family work, including children disputes and family injunction issues, with particular emphasis and expertise in financial aspects of divorce and relationship breakdown. The team has considerable experience of high-value and complex cases involving property, business and pension issues.
Contentious private client: highly regarded litigators in this specialist area of law the team advise and support clients, ensuring they are aware of all options, ultimately protecting their rights.
Court of protection and PI Trusts: it manages complex applications to the Court of Protection, including those for deputyship, statutory wills and a wide range of other applications relating to adults who lack mental capacity. It acts as professional deputy for many adults, where nobody else is suitable or if particular expertise is required.
Employment: a specialist employment law team ensuring clients are aware of all the options relating to the relevant regulations; adopting HR strategies, procedures and terms that develop staff, as well as reducing risk.
Banking and finance: with real strength in depth, the team have created a regional hub of expertise renowned for fast turnaround and an enviable track record. Acting for lenders and borrowers; the team’s work encompasses acquisition and structured finance transactions, real estate finance, asset based finance and restructuring projects covering the full range of corporate funding requirements.
Costs and litigation funding: a specialist and dedicated costs team working with over 200 law firms nationwide. Different to independent law costs draftsmen, as it understands what fee-earners require, together with the complex requirements of cost risk and management control.
Debt recovery: access to over 30 years’ experience of debt recovery and credit management, acting for commercial and consumer organisations, as well as local authorities in the UK.
Main Contacts
Department | Name | Telephone | |
---|---|---|---|
Joint managing partner/Business restructuring and insolvency | Roger Hutton | [email protected] | |
Joint managing partner/Business restructuring and insolvency | Ryan Millmore | [email protected] | |
Senior partner/ Corporate | Richard Moran | [email protected] | |
Commercial and IT | Matthew Hattersley | [email protected] | |
Intellectual property | Esther Kirwan | [email protected] | |
Banking and finance | Marie Pugh | [email protected] | |
Dispute resolution | Simon Young | [email protected] | |
Real estate | Martin Grange | [email protected] | |
Private client | Stephanie Parish | [email protected] | |
Employment | Sarah Tahamtani | [email protected] | |
Family | Rachel Spencer Robb | [email protected] | |
Costs and litigation funding | Andrew McAulay | [email protected] | |
Debt recovery | Daniel Carlton | [email protected] | |
Regulatory | Paul Matthews | [email protected] | |
Contentious private client | Lynsey Harrison | [email protected] | |
Planning | Carolyn Lord | [email protected] |
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
David Cunningham | David is a partner in the commercial practice at Clarion and having… | View Profile | |
Philip Dine | Partner. Phil is a real estate finance partner in Clarion’s Banking and… | View Profile | |
Martin Grange | Partner and head of property. Has dealt with a number of large-scale… | View Profile | |
Lynsey Harrison | Partner – Head of Contentious Private Client Team. Lynsey deals with… | View Profile | |
Sarah Harrison | Partner. Sarah provides the full range of corporate advice from delivering large… | View Profile | |
Matthew Hattersley | Partner and head of the commercial team, Matthew deals with non-contentious commercial… | View Profile | |
Christian Hellmund | Partner. Christian is a non-contentious energy lawyer and a partner in Clarion’s Energy… | View Profile | |
Dominic Higham | A commercial contracts dispute resolution specialist with a wealth of experience in… | View Profile | |
Roger Hutton | Roger, joint managing partner and founder of and a partner in Clarion’s… | View Profile | |
Esther Kirwan | Partner; experienced in all areas of contentious and non-contentious IP, including patents,… | View Profile | |
Ben Lamb | Ben has a broad commercial property experience with a specialism in development,… | View Profile | |
Carolyn Lord | Partner and Head of Planning. Considered by clients to be a first-rate… | View Profile | |
Andrew McAulay | Andrew created the Costs and Litigation Funding team at Clarion which has… | View Profile | |
Ryan Millmore | Joint managing partner and head of business restructuring and insolvency, Ryan specialises… | View Profile | |
Richard Moran | Senior partner. Described as ‘exceptionally calm under pressure’ and having a ‘tough approach to… | View Profile | |
Sophie Morley | Partner. Sophie has specialised in property litigation for almost 20 years and… | View Profile | |
Phil Morrison | Partner. Phil is head of Clarion’s construction offering. He is dual-qualified in English and… | View Profile | |
Simon Mydlowski | Partner. Experienced in providing advice on residential and industrial developments, commercial leases… | View Profile | |
Stephanie Parish | Head of Private Wealth. Stephanie assists and advises clients nationwide on a… | View Profile | |
Alice Pratt | Partner in business restructuring and insolvency. Alice works across all aspects of… | View Profile | |
Marie Pugh | Partner. Marie heads up the Banking and Finance team and regularly advises clients across… | View Profile | |
Jonathan Simms | Partner. Jonathan has been with the firm for nearly 20 years and… | View Profile | |
Ben Slack | Highly regarded in the finance and restructuring market, Ben is a partner… | View Profile | |
Rachel Spencer Robb | Rachel has over 25 years’ experience in family and matrimonial law, supporting… | View Profile | |
Sue Streatfield | Partner. Sue has extensive experience of all aspects of intellectual property (IP)… | View Profile | |
Sarah Tahamtani | Employment partner with extensive experience in Employment Tribunal advocacy, specialising in strategic… | View Profile | |
Lindsay Texel | Lindsay has over 18 years’ experience as a commercial property lawyer acting… | View Profile | |
David Williams | Partner. David is a well-known and highly regarded litigator, noted for his… | View Profile | |
Lindsey Wrenn | Partner. For more than 25 years as a trade mark specialist, Lindsey… | View Profile | |
Simon Young | Partner and head of commercial dispute resolution. Simon is a highly rated… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Number of UK partners : 32 Number of other UK fee-earners : 199DIVERSITY
Diversity is about the ways in which we are all brilliantly unique. Our genetics, background, beliefs and experiences shape who we are in distinctive ways. At Clarion we recognise that these differences make us a better business – delivering better outcomes for clients, driving innovation and enriching our employee experience.
If diversity is about what makes us different, inclusion is about creating an environment where everyone is confident that their uniqueness is embraced.
BeingOne is about how we at Clarion become increasingly diverse and inclusive. It is not an “initiative” or project but provides us with a strategic framework, harnessing our collective perspectives, in support of a culture where each of our people can thrive and be their authentic selves. The impact should be seen as well as felt as we enhance what we do, and how we do it, on a day-to-day basis.
Diversity and inclusion have mattered to us for a long time and we have made real progress in certain areas. Our progress is evident from the powerful stories shared by some of our team:
Kayleigh Fantoni, Legal Director
“I unexpectedly fell pregnant within six months of joining Clarion and was naturally nervous about how this might be perceived and would impact on my sights on promotion. I needn’t have worried! After hugs of congratulations from my head of team, I was assured that it would make no difference at all. And it didn’t – I received my promotion the following June.”
Hitesh Tailor, Legal Director
“Looking at law firms from the eyes of people from the BAME community, I can understand why they see entering the legal profession as something that is not for them. Clarion recognises that diversity and inclusion is neither a buzzword nor a tick-box exercise but something that needs to be taken seriously.”
Sean Meehan, Associate
“I can honestly say, I have NEVER been made to feel so accepted and part of such a wonderful team, including clients and colleagues, as I do at Clarion. I have been given so many opportunities during my time here and was promoted within 12 months of being in the team. I am employed and recognised for who I am and not a statistic. There is no need for any specific LGBTQ+ groups to represent me, because inclusivity is just part of Clarion.”
Amir Rahouf, Paralegal
“I’m a British Pakistani male working in the legal industry and aspiring to be a solicitor, a goal I feel I can achieve at Clarion irrespective of my ethnicity and background. I’m seen as hard working, proactive and I’m constantly challenged to be the best version of myself, improving my skill-set so that I can be the well-rounded solicitor that I aspire to be. Clarion is inclusive of everyone irrespective of their race or ethnicity, we are all one colour at this firm.”
We recognise, though, that there is much left to do in realising our ambition to create an environment where everyone, from any background, can do their best work. BeingOne helps maintain our focus on, and commitment to, this crucial aspect of our firm.
- Dispute resolution > Debt recovery
- Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery
- Private client > Contentious trusts and probate
- Private client > Family: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire
- Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire
- Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate
- Projects, energy and natural resources (including PFI) > Energy and projects
- Real estate > Commercial property: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire
- TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms
- Dispute resolution > Costs lawyers