With offices in Grimsby, Lincoln, and Louth, Wilkin Chapman Rollits‘s property litigation team regularly provides expert advice on property disputes within the agricultural sector, alongside offering guidance on housing and development matters. The experienced Joshua Briggs heads the department and has a broad portfolio that encompasses all aspects of property disputes. Tom Hickingbottom has a wealth of experience in TOLATA disputes, as well as being an active advisor to both landlords and tenants on a range of issues, including forfeiture and possession claims. Siobahn Sylvester is recommended for her work across a variety of matters, including lease renewals, dilapidation injunctions, and rights of way.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘I don't think any firm can compete with the talent that is present in Wilkin Chapman's team.’

  • ‘Tom Higginbottom does a great job. Very skilled and able but also very sensible.’

  • ‘Depth of knowledge on property litigation. Determination to find a solution and represent the client while communicating realistic prospects of success. A well-structured admin team supporting partners and solicitors aids efficiency.’

  • ‘Good depth of experience in dealing with a range of property matters.’

  • ‘I found the whole team at Wilkin Chapman to be very approachable. The team ensured my questions and queries were answered if the partner in charge was away or on annual leave. The whole team pulled together to help me get through the traumatic experience of court.’

  • ‘Siobahn Sylvester was the solicitor who dealt with my case. It certainly filled me with confidence that we had a good case once I saw the work and effort that had gone into preparing the case. It was also the first time I had ever been in court and the reassurance and comfort provided by Siobahn was amazing.’

Key clients

  • Ouse and Humber Drainage Boards
  • Beal Developments Limited
  • Canal & River Trust
  • The Lincolnshire Co-operative Limited
  • Ongo Partnership Ltd
  • Lincolnshire Housing Partnership Ltd
  • High Court Writ Recovery Limited
  • National Farmers Union
  • Financial & Legal Insurance Limited
  • Court Enforcement Services Ltd
  • T W Logistics Ltd

Work highlights

Represented the Claimants in a claim concerning the position of a boundary between agricultural and residential land, which was determined in the Claimants' favour at trial.
Advised two applicants in relation to succession application pursuant to Section 39 Agricultural Holdings Act 1986 and within Arbitration proceedings to determine the AHA rent.
Advised an internal drainage board in proceedings for breach of the Land Drainage Act 1991.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Joshua Briggs

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Tom Hickingbottom

Leading associates

Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Siobahn Sylvester

Practice head

Joshua Briggs

Other key lawyers

Tom Hickingbottom; Siobahn Sylvester