Bates Wells has a respected public and regulatory law team, known for its deep expertise, and trusted by charities and public sector clients alike. The firm is a go-to adviser for judicial reviews involving charities and frequently acts for public bodies facing judicial review challenges. Its team of seasoned public inquiry lawyers is regularly instructed in both statutory and non-statutory inquiries, investigations, and inquests. Practice head Matthew Smith brings a wealth of experience across sectors, representing individuals, public authorities, charities, and corporates in high-profile judicial reviews and statutory appeals. Rupert Earle, a leading figure in advertising regulation, has acted for and against public authorities for decades and is noted for his longstanding expertise in judicial review.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team has a number of very experienced public lawyers, particularly litigators. It has particular expertise in strategic or campaigning litigation.’
‘Louise Sivey is superb. She has excellent judgement and she is highly responsive and commercial.'
Key clients
- Royal College of Nursing
- RSPCA
Work highlights
Representing the Ramblers Association in a judicial review against the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, including advising on whether the judicial review is an Aarhus Convention claim.
Practice head
Matthew Smith
Other key lawyers
Rupert Earle; Louise Sivey; Helen Fry; Natasha Davies