Freeths LLP receives a regular stream of varied matters, which include the likes of dilapidation disputes, possession claims, forfeiture, and covenant disputes. Working across all areas of real estate litigation issues, team lead Paul Tomkins ‘remains steadfast on the overall objective’ within issues such as contested and uncontested lease renewals, dilapidation claims, and covenant matters, while Simon Baigent combines restructuring and insolvency acumen with landlord and tenant expertise. Edward Pickard lends his expertise to clients on the management of property portfolios.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Excellent legal representation, great communication, and collaboratively leveraging all areas of expertise within the practice where outside the immediate domain of litigation.’
‘For going the extra mile for his clients, Paul Tomkins genuinely stands out from the crowd. Outstanding legal knowledge and application as one would expect, but what’s impressive is his absolute dedication and passion; his ability to truly listen and engage on a personal level.’
- ‘Through both good and difficult times, Paul remains steadfast on the overall objective, and it has been a genuine pleasure working with him.’
‘Freeths joins seamlessly with the in-house legal team, collaborating on day-to-day transactional work and larger projects. They understand the client's business and offer bespoke solutions to problems.’
‘Paul Tomkins - his technical knowledge is excellent and his ability to understand and relate to the client's business is what makes Paul stand out. Paul is a real team player offering excellent client service.’
‘Freeths are always swift to respond, take time to digest the facts of each case before providing verbal or written advice and a recommended 'commercial' strategy as a way forward in the client's best interests.’
‘The difference for me is that each individual takes the time to understand the details of each case and the outcome wanted by the client rather than just 'prescribe' the resolution.’
‘Paul Tomkins is an outstanding leader and also a thoroughly nice person to deal with. His breadth of knowledge is superb, but equally he is happy to discuss thoughts, consider different tactics and be prepared to look at different angles before providing his advice.’
'They have some very talented individuals who manage our portfolio.'
'Paul Tomkins is one of the main reasons I continue to use Freeths. He is an exceptional wealth of knowledge, explains things clearly and with ease.'
Key clients
- Halfords
- Euro Garages
- Tarmac
- Timpson
- Travis Perkins
- Toolstation
- Wickes
- City Plumbing Supplies Holdings Limited
- Flogas UK Britain Limited
- Poundstretcher Limited
Work highlights
Advising Poundstretcher on all property litigation issues arising following its Company Voluntary Arrangement, which comprised claims with a value of £396 million.
Acting on a terminal dilapidations claim with a headline value of £2.8m with potential cross jurisdictional issues.
Advising a supplier to the construction industry on the opposition to the grant of new tenancies of a number of highly profitable branches in London.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Paul Tomkins
Other key lawyers
Simon Baigent; Edward Pickard; Beth Jenkins