Druces LLP > London, England > Firm Profile

Druces LLP
SALISBURY HOUSE
LONDON WALL
LONDON
EC2M 5PS
England

Corporate and commercial > M&A: Smaller Deals, £10m-£100m Tier 3

Noted for its ‘collaborative approach’ and ‘practical advice,’ Druces LLP‘s corporate practice offers both transactional and advisory services to clients from a range of industry sectors including, but not limited to, healthcare, infrastructure, and mining. The group is adept at handling domestic and cross-border M&A and disposals for public and private companies. Christopher Axford leads the team and has extensive experience leading on M&A transactions and investments, with a particular focus on regulated businesses and Sharia compliant structuring. Neil Pfister specialises in the IT sector and assists with M&A transactions, structuring, and IP-related matters, while Stephen Ronaldson is adept at leading on M&A and disposals for public companies in the oil and gas, mining, and insurance sectors.

Practice head(s):

Christopher Axford

Other key lawyers:

Neil Pfister; Stephen Ronaldson; Antony Cotton; Caroline Cropley; Claire Rigby; Mark Lamph

Testimonials

‘The team are proactive and provide practical advice.’

‘They stand out for their collaborative approach when working with other advisors.’

‘Claire Rigby focuses on client experience, practical advice, and collaborative working to efficiently support the client.’

‘Druces bring a refreshing blend of commercial acumen and legal pragmatism; focusing on the business of law and finding solutions. The firm’s breadth and depth of experience and resources allows them to field multidisciplinary teams of experienced specialists.’

‘Their down to earth approach is a tonic and a stark contrast to the ivory towered elitism demonstrated by many of their competitors.’

Key clients

Ideal Industries Inc

Cool Planet Technologies Ltd

EV Metals Group PLC

Global Fintech Investments Holding AG

Integrum Care Group

Belevedere Leisure Group

Work highlights

  • Advised Ideal Industries Inc in relation to the sale of the entire issued share capital of Casella Holdings Limited to TSI Incorporated Limited.
  • Advised Ideal Industries Inc in relation to the sale of the entire issued share capital of CMD Limited to Rubicon Partners Advisers LLP.
  • Advised on the purchase of Patagonia Energy from Rurelec plc.

Finance > Islamic finance Tier 3

Drawing upon the expertise of a number of Islamic finance practitioners and also able to leverage resources from the broader corporate, finance and real estate practice groups, Druces LLP continues to advise a fairly balanced mix of banks, funds, high-net-worth individuals and corporates across a broad swathe of Shariah-compliant structures. Corporate head Christopher Axford is central to much of this work, including advice on Murabaha transactions and a growing amount of sukuk issuances. Antony Cotton and Suzanne Middleton-Lindsley co-head the practice alongside Axford, with both handling a raft of real estate financings including for the team's flagship client, a British Shariah-compliant bank.

Practice head(s):

Antony Cotton; Christopher Axford; Suzanne Middleton-Lindsley

Other key lawyers:

Claire Rigby

Key clients

Bank of London and The Middle East

WIDR Group

Astute Capital

UV Cap3 Plc

Propiteer Capital plc

XVIR Healthcare Plc

Praetorian Wealth Holdings PLC

RZQ Finance SPV 1 Ltd

UV Care Series 1

GIFS UK Ltd

Work highlights

  • Advised the Bank of London and The Middle East on a number of Commodity Murabaha transactions ranging from £10m to £30m in value.
  • Advised Propiteer Capital plc on its sukuk listing on the Gibraltar Stock Exchange.
  • Advised RZQ Finance on its sukuk programme listing on the Vienna Stock Exchange.

Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 3

Matthew Duncan leads the practice at Druces LLP, which has a particular specialism in family offices. It covers all areas of wealth planning, international tax structuring, and multi-generational succession planning for mobile international families. Other key members of the practice include Robert Macro and Paul Levy. Helen Freely works on a broad range of private client matters, including tax and trusts, as well as advising charities. Phillip Vallon joined the firm from Knights plc in April 2023.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Duncan

Real estate > Residential property Tier 3

Druces LLP fields a ‘knowledgeable, sincere and client-driven’ team, which maintains its strong presence in the residential real estate market. Key names of note include Suzanne Middleton Lindsley, who is skilled at handling a variety of residential property transactions involving issues relating to investment, development and financing, in addition to handling Shariah compliant financings. Practice head Parveen Abbas handles the full range of residential conveyancing issues, and is noted for her strong focus on the prime and super-prime London sector, and the Home Counties market. Michelle Goodrum is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Parveen Abbas

Testimonials

‘A very personal and meticulous service. The experience here made me feel like I was their only client!’

‘Parveen Abbas is an outstanding solicitor. Her attention to deal, creative thinking and overall professionalism make her, in my mind, second to none.’

‘Parveen Abbas is always on top of the issues and responds to any questions concisely and quickly.’

‘Suzanne Middleton Lindsley is very knowledgeable and extremely efficient in whatever work/activity she undertakes.’

‘Suzanne Middleton Lindsley – A super bright and very skilful lawyer who can take on and beat the top professionals but also explain everything that is going on in lay terms to the client. Her patience and tenacity has helped us hugely on several occasions.’

‘Michelle Goodrum is responsive and resourceful with finding the perfect solutions within her firm to assist the specific customer needs. ’

‘Michelle Goodrum is the star of Druces. She is always available to help me tackle any tricky situations in a transaction, speaks clearly and explains any obstacles that may come our way and addresses it with good humour and a positive attitude throughout.’ 

‘Parveen Abbas epitomises professionalism. She’s a pragmatic problem-solver, a delight to collaborate with, and remarkably efficient. Her communication skills set her apart, making her truly exceptional.’

Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets – small-mid cap Tier 4

The ‘very personal and commercial’ team at Druces LLP advises issuers, AIM-listed companies, and their nominated advisers on a wide range of equity transactions, with a particular emphasis on handling public and private fundraises as well as on guiding international clients through UK IPOs and listings. Corporate and commercial partner Dominic Traynor regularly advises companies in the mining and energy sectors on equity issuances and reverse takeovers. Jack Dervyn, who was made practice head in November 2024,  is noted for his track record of working with clients in the natural resources and tech spaces.

Practice head(s):

Dominic Traynor

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Very responsive and well positioned in the market.’

‘Personal and commercial.’

Key clients

Ajax Resources Plc

EV Metals Group Plc

Zenith Energy Ltd

Airnow PLC

Amedeo Resources PLC

Athelney Trust Plc

Beaumont Cornish Limited

Boston International Holdings plc

Critical Mineral Resources PLC

Conico Ltd

Ecovista Plc

Egdon Resources PLC

Finablr PLC

First Development Resources Plc

Golden Metal Resources Plc

Goldplat PLC

Great Southern Copper PLC

Greatland Gold PLC

GSTechnologies Ltd

Katoro Gold PLC

Kavango Resources plc

Kibo Energy PLC

MAST Energy Developments plc

Mosman Oil and Gas Ltd

Mustang Energy PLC

Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company PLC

Oilex Ltd

Panthera Resources plc

Power Metal Resources plc

Red Rock Resources PLC

Regency Mines PLC

RentGuarantor Holdings PLC

Rockfire Resources PLC

SI Capital Ltd

SigmaRoc PLC

Savannah Resources PLC

Starvest PLC

Thor Mining PLC

TomCo Energy PLC

VSA Capital Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised EV Metals Group Plc in connection with its £50m acquisition of leading UK battery materials business from main market listed Johnson Matthey Plc.
  • Advised Kavango Resources Plc on its £3m placing and subscription by way of a simplified disclosure prospectus, as well as various acquisition transactions.
  • Advised GSTechnologies Limited on various secondary fundraisings and corporate restructuring.

Industry focus > Emerging markets Tier 4

Druces LLP handles corporate and capital markets matters in the natural resources sector, notably in the Middle East and Africa, though it is also active in mining deals in Turkey, India, China and Latin America. Firmly focused on natural resources, its key partners Dominic Traynor, banking specialist Christopher Axford, and construction expert Richard Bailey see clients through from equity capital raising, through the issuance of listed debt, to acquisitions and mergers, as well as advising on project development. Jack Dervyn is heavily involved in oil and gas projects.

Practice head(s):

Dominic Traynor

Key clients

Elephant Oil Limited

Essentially Group Plc

EV Metals Group Plc

Critical Mineral Resources PLC

Africa Mining and Exploration Limited

Great Southern Copper Plc

Goldplat Plc

Katoro Gold PLC

Kavango Resources plc

Kibo Energy PLC

Panthera Resources plc

Power Metal Resources plc

Savannah Resources Plc

Work highlights

  • Advised Essentially Group PLC on its subscription and admission to the AQSE Growth Market with a market capitalisation of £25,650,000.
  • Advised long standing AIM listed client Savannah Resources Plc on its £6.1m placing and subscription and £0.4m raise through PrimaryBid.
  • Advised Kavango Resources plc, a company with its shares listed on the Standard Segment of the Main Market, on its two stage fundraising of £6m before expenses, which involved a simplified disclosure prospectus and Rule 9 waiver.

Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 4

Led by Helen Freely, Druces LLP continues to receive a variety of high-quality instructions from its long-established charity clients. It acts for more than 60 charities, and has particular strength in the education, arts, animal, religious, and health sectors. The group has also been busy working for some newer charities. Freely is adept at helping charities which are just launching or in the early stages of their existence. Caroline Cropley has particular experience in advising on structuring and governance issues from both a corporate and a charity law perspective.

Practice head(s):

Helen Freely

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The practice appears to focus on continuing to provide a service to clients, rather than on running a business for itself, and to actually want to know its clients and their individual needs.’

‘First and foremost, availability and access, and also a genuine interest in what their client is trying to do.’

‘The team has a wide range of experience. Its members work in other areas, such as private wealth and corporate restructuring, so they are able to advise on a wider range of issues than more specialised teams.’

‘This team assists a particularly broad range of charities in areas such as medical, education, religious and animal rights.’

‘Caroline Cropley is extremely able and pleasant to deal with. She has an excellent grasp of the broad range of charity issues and is able to bring her commercial expertise to bear.’

‘Helen Freely has a wealth of experience and a very practical approach.’

Key clients

Drinkaware

Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 4

Paul Levy is at the helm at Druces LLP. It continues to win new instructions on a range of inheritance and will disputes and Court of Protection matters, as well as breach of trust and proprietary estoppel claims. The multi-disciplinary team draws on the strength of its private wealth and dispute resolution colleagues to advise on a range of issues, such as contested applications for the removal of executors. It also regularly advises on other matters, including difficult estate claims over predatory marriages. Helen Freely is another important contact.

Practice head(s):

Paul Levy

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘A small but dedicated team with great commitment.’

‘Paul Levy is an excellent young partner really making a name for himself. Helen Freely is hugely experienced with great litigation instincts and real concern for the clients.’

‘A well-established and very professional private client outfit.’

‘Paul Levy is hyper intelligent and intensely hardworking.’

‘Helen Freely is very bright and will fight like a velociraptor for her clients.

 

Projects, energy and natural resources > Mining and minerals Tier 4

Druces LLP focuses on capital markets work within the mining sector and is experienced in handling a range of corporate finance transactions. The team is headed by Dominic Traynor, who specialises in capital markets and has worked on a number of admissions and re-admissions to AIM, Standard Listings, and Aquis. Jack Dervyn is of note, with expertise in advising exploration and production companies.

Practice head(s):

Dominic Traynor

Other key lawyers:

Jack Dervyn; Mark Lamph

Key clients

Ajax Resources Plc

Conico Ltd (ASX: CNJ)

Panthera Resources plc

Zenith Energy Ltd

Amedeo Resources

Beaumont Cornish Limited (Nominated Adviser)

Critical Mineral Resources PLC

Egdon Resources PLC

EV Metals Group Plc

First Development Resources Plc

Golden Metal Resources Plc

Goldplat Plc

Great Southern Copper PLC

Greatland Gold Plc

Katoro Gold Plc

Kavango Resources Plc

Kibo Energy Plc

Mosman Oil and Gas Ltd

Mustang Energy PLC

Nostra Terra Oil and Gas Company PLC

Oilex Ltd (dual ASX and AIM listed)

Power Metal Resources plc

Red Rock Resources Plc

Regency Mines Plc

Rockfire Resources PLC

SI Capital Ltd (broker)

SigmaRoc Plc

Savannah Resources Plc

Thor Mining Plc

TomCo Energy PLC

Work highlights

  • Advised long-standing AIM listed client Savannah Resources Plc on its £6.1m placing and subscription and £0.4m raise through PrimaryBid.
  • Advised Kavango Resources plc, a company with its shares listed on the Standard Segment of the Main Market, on its two-stage fundraising of £6m before expenses, which involved a simplified disclosure prospectus and Rule 9 waiver.
  • Advised First Equity in connection with a placing and subscription of approximately £4.9m, and the reverse takeover of Neo Energy Metals.

Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 4

At Druces LLP, Karen Chapman oversees the corporate occupiers department, drawing from her experience in advising on occupational lettings, property management, and landlord and tenant matters. Adrian Footer is well versed in commercial real estate in the hospitality and leisure sectors, Lisa Cardy focuses on the sale and acquisition of commercial properties, and Jo Wooller is a key contact for portfolio asset management, and the property elements of corporate transactions.

Practice head(s):

Karen Chapman

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘From my perspective Druces provided sensible, commercial advice focused on achieving my aims and navigating the issues thrown in our way by the other side and their advisors.’

‘Adrian Footer was excellent at taking a commercial approach to the challenges faced. He did not seek to overcomplicate, took a pragmatic stance and provided sensible advice to achieve my aims. This is differentiated from previous experiences where I have seen legal teams get too involved in the legal minutiae and because they lose sight of the bigger picture and actually end up being a hindrance to the commercial aims of the agreement.’

‘The team are responsive and genuinely care about providing good customer service.’

‘They are patient and avoid legal jargon to ensure a clear mutual understanding.’

Key clients

Houzz UK Limited

Drinkaware Trust

Work highlights

  • Acting for Houzz UK Limited on multiple sub-leases of office buildings located in Central London.
  • Acting for The Drinkaware Trust in relation to leases of offices in Chiswell Street.
  • Acting for 36 South Capital Advisors in relation to the acquisition of a lease in Mayfair.

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 5

Druces LLP operates across both the commercial and residential side of real estate litigation, handling landlord and tenant disputes in the former, and cladding, collective enfranchisement, and service charge disputes under the latter. Benjamin Lomer leads the offering and primarily advises landlords in the retail sector on business tenancy terminations and rent recovery and possession proceedings. Nigel Adams heads the wider dispute resolution practice, with demonstrated skill in international arbitration.

Practice head(s):

Benjamin Lomer

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Ben Lomer – pragmatic, commercially minded, robust and timely advice.’

‘The standout feature of Druces is the level of partner engagement combined with excellent technical knowledge and a focused commercial approach.’

‘Benjamin Lomer is fantastic in terms of not just legal ability but a determination to achieve the best possible outcome for the client and to engage fully with counsel to achieve that aim.’

‘Druces LLP is a dedicated team who assist me in a highly professional spirit and with a wide range of knowledge and expertise. I am deeply thankful to them.’

‘A unique practice which has a clear mission and purpose in property litigation which is focused on a number of key factors including transparency, expertise, and client-focused service.’

‘Benjamin Lomer is not only highly technical in property litigation but also extremely commercial, and would not hesitate recommending him.’

Key clients

Evelyn Partners (post-merger with Smith & Williamson)

Jackson Rowe Surveyors

Wharf Developments Ltd

Blueprint Homes Ltd

Comland Plc

Dogs Trust

Enstar Capital

JT Ross Property Group

Opus Trust Group

Ratcliffes Surveyors

Transworld Business Advisors

Yours Clothing

Work highlights

  • Acting for a nationwide retailer in connection with its extensive property portfolio, including breaking leases, re-gearing existing leases, and ancillary matters as to compliance and dilapidations.
  • Acting for Blueprint Homes Limited as freeholder developer of premises in London, in relation to alleged cladding and fire safety issues.

Real estate > Property finance Tier 6

The Druces LLP real estate team draws praise from clients, who rate it for its ‘broad range of experience from different lawyers’. The team is jointly chaired by Antony Cotton and Suzanne Middleton-Lindsley. Both Cotton and Lindsley are experienced in dealing with Sharia’a compliant transactions, and regularly advise both domestic and Middle Eastern banks - both public and private sector - in property finance matters.

Practice head(s):

Antony Cotton; Suzanne Middleton Lindsley

Other key lawyers:

Christopher Axford

Testimonials

‘The main strength of the teams is the broad range of experience from different lawyers, in particular how they pass on this knowledge and experience to younger upcoming lawyers.’

‘Suzanne Middleton Lyndsey is someone whom you can literally take any problem to, and they will always find a solution. Sometimes you feel you cannot be open with lawyers because your problem maybe “too small” but never felt that way with Druces.’

Key clients

Bank of London and the Middle East Plc

Bank of London and the Middle East Plc – Private Banking

Denizbank AS, Turkey

ICICI Bank UK PLC

Bank of China (UK) Ltd

Astute Capital plc

Propiteer Capital plc

Property Lending LLP

Work highlights

  • Advising Bank of London and The Middle East Plc on over 40 property finance transactions in the period.
  • Advising Property Lending LLP on an acquisition and development facility to acquire a property that was to be demolished and in its place a building of 8 flats developed.

Finance > Corporate restructuring & insolvency Tier 8

The ‘conscientious and technically excellent‘ team at Druces LLP provides ‘pragmatic and commercial advice’ to corporates, high-net-worth individuals and a growing number of IPs across a range of corporate restructuring and insolvency situations. Recently promoted to partner, ‘very knowledgeable’ team head Caroline Cropley has a growing reputation in the market and is noted for her ability to use the law ‘to give her clients the best solution/advantage’. Nigel Adams and Neil Hayter are also key members of the team.

Practice head(s):

Caroline Cropley

Other key lawyers:

Neil Hayter; Christopher Axford; Nigel Adams; Kajal Sachania

Testimonials

‘The Druces team is efficient, while providing pragmatic and commercial advice.’

‘Professional but friendly, conscientious and technically excellent.

‘Christopher Axford is pragmatic and delivers common sense advice.’

‘Caroline Cropley is very knowledgeable in the field and was most responsive, making herself available whenever needed.’

Caroline Cropley is technically able and uses the law to give her clients the best solution/advantage.’

Work highlights

  • General advice and assistance to The Rocket Software Group, including support to international in-house counsel and external advisers.
  • Acting on behalf of various insolvency practitioners at Quantuma Advisory Ltd in relation to their appointments, to include security reviews and legal and strategic advice and assistance.

Founded in 1767, Druces LLP is a leading City of London law firm, renowned for advising public and privately-owned businesses, financial institutions, and high-net-worth individuals across diverse sectors. Combining over 250 years of heritage with cutting-edge legal innovation, Druces is committed to delivering responsive, partner-led services tailored to the evolving needs of its clients.

Druces excels in key practice areas, including corporate and capital markets, dispute resolution, real estate, and private wealth. As a firm with a significant international footprint, we provide seamless cross-border legal services, supported by our role as a founder member of the Alliance of Business Lawyers. This network enables Druces to offer robust advice on complex international matters, regularly advising clients on English law from across the globe.

Recent mergers with City law firms Ronaldsons and Sykes Anderson Perry have further bolstered Druces’ capabilities in capital markets, private client, and real estate, enabling the firm to provide highly specialised services, including expert tax, property, and legal advice to French-speaking clients. Our capital markets team has emerged as a leader in the natural resources sector, while our deep expertise in Sharia’a finance continues to attract clients in both the UK and the Middle East.

Druces is proud to be recognised in the Legal 500 for its expertise in natural resources, real estate finance, and Sharia’a-compliant banking. Clients praise the firm for its pragmatic and commercially astute advice, with one remarking, “The team combines pragmatism with commercial acumen and delivers impressive levels of client service, responsiveness, and communication.”

Our clients appreciate our deep understanding of their industries, whether they are navigating corporate finance and M&A transactions, managing complex real estate investments, or safeguarding family wealth for future generations.

Corporate and Capital Markets: Druces’ corporate team advises clients on stock exchange listings, corporate finance, M&A, and restructuring, with standout expertise in regulated business transfers. The firm’s banking and finance practice, which covers Sharia’a-compliant finance, asset finance, and property finance, is praised for its depth of knowledge and strategic insight.

“The team combines pragmatism and commercial acumen with detailed legal know how – they practice ‘the business of law'”. Legal 500, 2024.

Private Wealth and Taxation: Druces’ private wealth team is known for its bespoke solutions for high-net-worth individuals and family offices, particularly in the realms of estate planning, international tax, and contentious and non-contentious probate. Our French-speaking specialists provide expert advice on French tax, property, and probate matters, ensuring clients benefit from dual-qualified expertise.

“Druces is a long-established firm with real expertise in private client work. It has extremely good client handling skills”. Legal 500, 2024

Real Estate: Druces’ highly experienced real estate team provides a full spectrum of services, from commercial property transactions to residential conveyancing. The firm is recognised for its leadership in property syndicates, with a long-standing reputation for pioneering these investment structures.

“I was struck by the real estate’s team’s unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. Their responsiveness and open communication made me feel valued and reassured that my best interests were at the forefront of their work”. Legal 500, 2024.

Dispute Resolution: Druces’ dispute resolution team has expanded its capabilities, delivering clear, efficient, and cost-effective advice on commercial disputes, construction issues, property litigation, and niche areas such as classic car disputes. Clients highlight the team’s strategic approach and ability to resolve complex matters swiftly.

“Their broad experience allows them to anticipate the drivers and likely approaches taken by counterparts, which helped enormously in shaping documents and finding solutions and compromise” Legal 500, 2024

At Druces, we are committed to blending tradition with innovation, ensuring that our clients receive expert legal advice that anticipates future challenges and opportunities. We continue to build long-term partnerships, striving to meet the highest standards of service in a fast-changing world.

Department Name Email Telephone
Senior Partner Roy Campbell [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5508
CEO Edward Gordon-Hall [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5593
Head of Real Estate Karen Chapman [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5591
Head of Corporate & Commercial Christopher Axford [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5557
Head of Private Wealth Matthew Duncan [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5500
Head of Dispute Resolution Nigel Adams [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5502
Head of International Wealth & Fiduciary Robert Macro [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5500
Head of Banking & Financial Services Antony Cotton [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5592
Head of Property Litigation Benjamin Lomer [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5570
Head of Corporate Restructuring Caroline Cropley [email protected] +44 (0)20 7216 5551
Photo Name Position Profile
Parveen Abbas photo Parveen Abbas Parveen is a Partner and also Head of Residential Property. Having particular…
Nigel Adams photo Nigel Adams Nigel Adams joined the firm as Head of Dispute Resolution in February…
Christopher Axford photo Christopher Axford Christopher is the Head of Corporate and is a member of Druces…
Richard Bailey photo Richard Bailey Richard is a highly regarded Construction lawyer with broad experience across the…
Ronak Bastani photo Ronak Bastani Ronak is a senior associate in Druces’ Real Estate team.  She qualified…
James Brand photo James Brand James Brand is a Consultant in the Real Estate team, specialising in…
Nigel Brown photo Nigel Brown Nigel specialises in legal issues arising in construction, engineering, procurement and property…
Roy Campbell photo Roy Campbell Roy is the Senior Partner of Druces LLP and has been with…
Lisa Cardy photo Lisa Cardy Lisa is an Associate in Druces LLP’s Real Estate team, specialising in…
Paul Caruana photo Paul Caruana Paul is the Team Lead for Tax Compliance and Disclosure in the…
Karen Chapman photo Karen Chapman Karen is a Partner and the Head of Druces’ Real Estate team.…
Caroline Cropley photo Caroline Cropley Caroline is a partner and Head of Corporate Restructuring in the Corporate…
Jacqueline D'Arcy photo Jacqueline D'Arcy Jacqueline D’Arcy is a Solicitor in Druces’ Real Estate team. She has…
Jack Dervyn photo Jack Dervyn Jack is a Partner in Druces’ Corporate & Commercial Department. As a…
Matthew Duncan photo Matthew Duncan Matthew is a partner and Head of the Private Wealth Team. He…
Christopher Evans photo Christopher Evans Christopher Evans is a Consultant in Druces’ Corporate & Commercial Department. A…
Adrian Footer photo Adrian Footer Adrian has significant expertise in real estate law including acting for corporate…
Helen Freely photo Helen Freely Helen is a Partner in the Private Wealth team. Her background and…
Michelle Goodrum photo Michelle Goodrum Michelle is a Senior Associate and the Head of Enfranchisement in Druces’…
Terri Hattersley photo Terri Hattersley Terri is a Solicitor in Druces’ Dispute Resolution team. Prior to joining…
Karen Jenkins photo Karen Jenkins Karen is a Legal Executive in Druces LLP’s Real Estate team. She…
Alice Johnson photo Alice Johnson Alice joined Druces in 2019 as a solicitor having trained in Family…
Mark Lamph photo Mark Lamph Mark is a senior associate in Druces LLP’s Corporate and Commercial team.…
Paul Levy photo Paul Levy Paul is a Partner in the Private Wealth department and is the…
Benjamin Lomer photo Benjamin Lomer Benjamin Lomer is a partner and Head of Property Litigation in Druces…
Robert Macro photo Robert Macro Robert is a partner in the Private Wealth team at Druces. He…
Katie Mear photo Katie Mear Katie is a Senior Associate in Druces LLP’s Real Estate team. Qualified…
Cheryl Michalik photo Cheryl Michalik Cheryl is a Solicitor in Druces’ Corporate and Commercial team. She joined…
Suzanne Middleton Lindsley photo Suzanne Middleton Lindsley Suzanne Middleton Lindsley is a Partner in the Real Estate team and…
Victoria Novikova photo Victoria Novikova Victoria Novikova is a Consultant in the Litigation and Dispute Resolution team.…
Neil Pfister photo Neil Pfister Neil is a specialist Commercial, IT & IP Partner in our Corporate…
Christopher Proudley photo Christopher Proudley Christopher is a consultant in our Real Estate team. He specialises in…
Claire Rigby photo Claire Rigby Claire is a Partner in Druces LLP’s Corporate and Commercial team. Claire read…
Stephen Ronaldson photo Stephen Ronaldson Stephen is a partner in Druces’ Corporate & Commercial team, with over…
Kajal Sachania photo Kajal Sachania Kajal is an Associate in Druces’ Corporate & Commercial team. Her rapidly…
Wendy Shoniregun photo Wendy Shoniregun Wendy is an Associate in Druces’ Dispute Resolution team. Wendy joined Druces…
Toby Stroh photo Toby Stroh Toby Stroh (LLB) is a Consultant in Druces’ Corporate & Commercial team.…
Krupa Thakker photo Krupa Thakker Krupa joined the firm in August 2021 as an Associate in the…
Dominic Traynor photo Dominic Traynor Dominic is a Partner in Druces’ Corporate & Commercial team, specialising in…
Paul White photo Paul White Paul is a business and property tax lawyer with over 25 years’…
Jo Wooller photo Jo Wooller Jo is a Senior Associate in our Real Estate team and specialises…
Photo Name Position Profile
Phillip Vallon photo Phillip Vallon Phillip is a Partner specialising in Employment and Immigration law. He has…
Number of UK partners : 22
Number of other UK fee-earners : 54
French
Italian
German
Spanish
Afrikaans
Gujarati
Hindi
Alliance of Business Lawyers

CLIENT: Ben Keefe

COMPANY/FIRM: Director of Mast House Holdings Limited

TESTIMONIAL: “I wanted to pass on my gratitude for introducing us to Karen Chapman. She has represented us in a recent acquisition and delivered above and beyond expectations in terms of thoroughness and commerciality – my family and I have greatly appreciated Karen’s approach, she is a credit to the Druces’ team.”


CLIENT: Surb Shergill

TESTIMONIAL: “Robert Macro is a highly intelligent, ethical, creative advisor who is very client (and results) focused and has a strong social conscience. His representation on my behalf has always been well informed, proficient, and resourceful, which ultimately resulted in a highly satisfactory outcome in all aspects. Having used some of the best lawyers in their fields, over many years, I have been singularly impressed with the highly professional and efficient way Rob has always managed my cases. Showing exemplary conduct and honesty with his clients, Rob is a rarity in today’s world!”


CLIENT: Stephen Chadwick

TESTIMONIAL: “[Paul Levy]…demonstrated an extremely wide knowledge showing a quite exceptional understanding of his field of law. He also possesses the ability to deliver his advice in a most sensible practical and understandable manner. In particular…he is able to deal with issues in a most compassionate way always putting the client at ease even when discussing extremely difficult, sensitive and personal matters. His attention to detail is first class and is able to process a large volume of information quickly and formulate an effective strategy…Over the years, I have had no hesitation in recommending him to friends, family and former professional colleagues…”


CLIENT: Ben Glassman

TESTIMONIAL: “I have worked with Paul [Levy] for a number of years and have always found him to be highly proactive and resourceful with our mutual clients. Paul has a calm and engaging approach…and is able to outline complex ideas in a friendly and accessible manner… Paul has a strong international dimension to his work, comfortable in addressing the concerns of both UK resident and non-resident individuals.”


CLIENT: Paul Foy

COMPANY/FIRM: CEO of RentGuarantor

TESTIMONIAL: “RentGuarantor exists to fulfil a market need within the private rental property sector, but we also have big ambitions to grow new revenue streams through the innovative use of technology. We are very excited about the prospects for the business trading on AQUIS, and I would like to thank the team at Druces LLP and in particular Jack [Dervyn] for his excellent support and professionalism over the course of the listing process. I look forward to working with Jack and the team as we grow the business”


CLIENT: Tone Goh

COMPANY/FIRM: GSTechnologies

TESTIMONIAL: “Jack [Dervyn] and David [Smith] helped us to move quickly and efficiently to take advantage of this opportunity. I was very impressed with how they could guide us through the process to close the placing. The timeline to completion was exceptionally tight and Druces delivered”


CLIENT: Tone Goh

COMPANY/FIRM: GSTechnologies

TESTIMONIAL: “The New Year has got off to a flying start for GST and this fundraising builds upon the investor commitment from the second half of 2021. Jack [Dervyn] and David [Smith] worked across various timezones to help us get the fundraising over the line, and I am very pleased with their commercial and legal advice”.


CLIENT: Audrey Alexander

TESTIMONIAL: “As you can imagine we are delighted by this outcome. I just wanted to thank you [Laughlan Steer] for the high quality of legal support you provided. At all times you were empathetic, pragmatic and value focussed and I really appreciate the effort you put in to resolving this issue for us.


CLIENT: Trevor Martin

TESTIMONIAL: “Dear Michelle [Goodrum], I don’t think that in the 40 years I have been buying and selling property that I have ever had such a pain free transaction. Thank you for your assistance in making this happen.”


CLIENT: Arthur Goldberg

TESTIMONIAL: “Thanks once again for your diligence [Paul Caruana]. You are simply the best.”


CLIENT: Michael McGarty

COMPANY/FIRM: Savannah Resources

TESTIMONIAL: “The Druces team led by Jack Dervyn and Dominic Traynor did a great job of facilitating an effective and efficient conclusion to bring our joint venture with mining major, Rio Tinto, to a conclusion. Furthermore, they offered commercial insights as well as expert legal input, and were very flexible in the times that they provided assistance to recognise the parties’ varying time-zones.”


CLIENT: Michael McGarty

COMPANY/FIRM: Savannah Resources

TESTIMONIAL: “Yet again the Druces team worked very effectively with our company and other advisors, and their guidance and input was an integral part of delivering a great result. This means that the Savannah team is well placed to complete the appraisal of our flagship project and to complement that work by evaluating opportunities to further enhance its ESG credentials, undertake exploration to define additional resources, and add key personnel to our project team as we proceed to the development phase”.


CLIENT: Paul McGoldrick

COMPANY/FIRM: Cool Planet Technologies Limited

TESTIMONIAL: “Antony [Cotton] and Kajal [Sachania] have been first class in their handling of Cool Planet’s fund raise and share issue. Commercial, pragmatic and cool under pressure – theirs is the business of law. A cut above the rest and a refreshing and valuable approach, to say the least – and their patience and ability to herd cats is quite an art!”


Our People

Druces is an equal opportunities employer, striving to treat all people equally regardless of their age, disability, religion or belief, sex or gender, race, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership and pregnancy or maternity status.

We are committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion among our workforce. The overall aim is for the Druces team to reflect the breadth of our client base, and for each employee to feel respected and comfortable within the working environment.

We have established several initiatives within the firm to ensure that Druces remains an encouraging, diverse and rewarding place to work. For example, our “Druces Women” social media campaign, highlighted the important role that women play in our success, from partners, to associates, to support staff. Further evidence of this leading role women play was our win at Citywealth’s Powerwomen Awards 2022, where we were named ‘Company of the Year – Female Leadership’.

Working with our social committee, the firm organises events and activities for team building, thereby developing a more collegiate environment for all. During the pandemic, these events have included online quizzes, all-staff video meetings, sporting events and team building exercises.

We take a keen interest in staff wellbeing, especially during the unique experience of living through a pandemic.

Social wellbeing

Corporate Social Responsibility has been at the heart of our firm throughout its 250-year history. We endeavour to be recognised not only for excellence in legal services, but also for our longstanding commitment to the wellbeing of our staff, our local community and the environment.

We are pleased to support Your Sanctuary as our Charity of the Year. Your Sanctuary offer sanctuary, support and empowerment to anyone affected by Domestic Abuse.

The Community

Our people have the skills and energy that can make a real difference to the communities we work in. Effective from 2021, we now give all staff additional paid leave each year to be used for voluntary work. In this way, working alongside local charities, schools and not-for-profit groups, we empower our staff to contribute in a way which makes the greatest impact.

Druces’ staff actively participate in a wide range of organised fund-raising activities, including the London Legal Walk and Standard Chartered Great City Race. As a firm we are committed to supporting our local communities and as such make donations to the Whitechapel Mission, an organisation working to combat homelessness in London.

The Environment

We have taken significant steps to improve the firm’s environmental performance and we encourage all members of staff to adopt the same approach. We have worked to reduce the use of single use plastic and, as a responsible business, we seek to reduce our energy consumption actively; recycling and reusing materials, promoting sustainable travel and procurement.

In order to reduce our impact on the environment, Druces endorses a variety of sustainable initiatives that are incorporated into our business practices and are reflected in the way we source goods and services. This includes using Fairtrade products in the office.