A key port of call for developers, investors, and lenders, Watson Farley & Williams LLP is geared to handle property developments, transactions, and leasing. Gary Ritter oversees the practice and is experienced in development matters involving joint ventures, while Deepa Deb is well-regarded in the residential sector. Hetan Ganatra handles property management, Barry Hembling is knowledgeable on construction projects, while Charlotte Williams, Charlotte Bowerman, and Jo Hall are key associates.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Watson Farley & Williams offers sector-focused expertise. We value its partner-led approach, commercial insight, and cross-border capability. The firm stands out for its tailored service, innovation in billing and legal tech, and a strong track record in complex, high-value transactions.’
- ‘Hetan Ganatra stands out for his sharp commercial acumen, calm leadership, and ability to simplify complex issues. He brings a collaborative, solutions-driven approach that sets him apart from peers. His responsiveness and clarity under pressure have been invaluable, making him a trusted adviser on high-stakes, time-sensitive transactions.’
- ‘The wider team supporting Deepa Deb on this complex real estate transaction was exemplary throughout. Their professionalism, responsiveness, and collaborative spirit made a significant impact on the successful outcome of the deal.’
- ‘We have had the privilege of working with Deepa Deb on a particularly complex and time-sensitive real estate transaction that required an exceptional level of legal, commercial, and strategic acumen. Deepa’s performance was nothing short of outstanding — she consistently demonstrated a rare ability to combine technical legal brilliance with calm, solutions-focused judgement under pressure.’
- ‘The transaction involved multi-layered ownership structures, cross-border elements, urgent planning considerations, and the careful alignment of both institutional and private stakeholders. Deepa Deb navigated these moving parts with clarity, precision, and a reassuring steadiness that instilled confidence in all parties involved. Her ability to anticipate risk, draft watertight documentation, and push through negotiations with both tenacity and tact was instrumental to the successful completion of the deal.’
- ‘What truly sets Deepa Deb apart is not just her intelligence and technical skill, but her human approach. She listens carefully, thinks commercially, and communicates with clarity — whether with senior counsel, developers, or private clients. She goes far beyond the standard remit of a solicitor to act as a true strategic partner. Her responsiveness, attention to detail, and dedication to delivering a positive outcome were unwavering from start to finish.’
Key clients
- Gravity Co-Living
- BP Pension Fund
- Zaha Hadid Architects
Work highlights
Acting for BP Pension Fund on a forward funding development comprising 27 industrial and distribution units.
Acting for BP Pension Fund and its development manager, Crossmark Estates, on the development of a “BTR” scheme of 429 residential units.
Acting for BP Pension Fund and its development manager, Urban Vision, on the proposed mixed-use development in Birmingham that will provide 294 “BTR” apartments.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Gary Ritter
Other key lawyers
Deepa Deb; Hetan Ganatra; Barry Hembling; Charlotte Williams; Charlotte Bowerman; Jo Hall; Louise Kyle