Druces LLP has a real estate finance practice with a distinct focus on advising both domestic and Middle Eastern banks on property finance matters. A key area of distinction for the team is its significant experience in handling Sharia-compliant transactions. This specialist capability is driven by co-heads Antony Cotton and Suzanne Middleton Lindsley, who are both highly experienced in structuring these specific types of transactions for both public and private sector clients.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘The Property Finance team at Druces demonstrates a high level of professionalism and legal expertise, with a notable commitment to honest and transparent communication.'
- 'From the outset, they made it clear they would provide the information we needed to hear, not just what we wanted to hear. That candour has helped us make informed, strategic decisions.’
- ‘They are able to distil complex legal issues into clear, actionable advice. Their direct approach means that even when the news isn’t positive, we get the full picture and straightforward guidance based on their experience. This integrity is a key reason we continue to use them for our property finance needs.’
- ‘Their focus on the client, legal precision, and willingness to have difficult conversations make them effective partners in navigating complex transactions.’
- ‘The team at Druces LLP are experts who are also honest, approachable, and focused on achieving the best outcome for their clients.’
- ‘Suzanne Middleton Lindsley, Partner and Head of Real Estate Finance, is direct and intelligent. She communicates with honesty, even if the information is not what one wants to hear. This approach, paired with her depth of knowledge and commercial sense, makes her a valuable adviser.’
Key clients
- Bank of London and the Middle East Plc
- Rocket Leisure Ltd
Work highlights
Advised a leading Islamic bank on over 40 property finance transactions valued between £5m and £43m, involving multi-jurisdictional structuring across Jersey, Guernsey, BVI, Cayman, and Luxembourg, reinforcing Druces’ expertise in Islamic finance and international real estate lending.
Advised a borrower on a £5.1m term loan refinance of a mixed-use London property portfolio, including freehold and leasehold assets, ensuring lender security compliance and optimising investment strategy.
Practice head
Suzanne Middleton Lindsley; Antony Cotton