Singled out for the ability to ‘handle all aspects of property work with strength and depth of experience and expertise at all levels’, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is able to offer a multi-faceted service across rights of light, leasehold enfranchisement, and Building Safety Act mandates. Emma Humphreys is highly capable in the full gamut of contentious matters, balancing a busy workload of break rights, insolvency matters, and forfeitures. James Souter exhibits expertise in enfranchisement work, while Andrew Ross’ diverse caseload features matters involving right of light disputes in central London developments and landlord and tenant insolvency-related disputes. Lauren Fraser is rated for her work on leasehold enfranchisement, and also in the team, Samuel Lear acts on trespass cases. Ross joined from Travers Smith LLP in March 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘Charles Russell Speechlys ensures that the right experts are in the room for the right discussions, providing the necessary expertise without overwhelming the meeting with unnecessary participants. This thoughtful approach ensures that clients feel supported, not overbilled. In my view, Charles Russell Speechlys combines exceptional capability with outstanding efficiency.’
- ‘James Souter is our primary point of contact, and his pragmatic approach ensures we are consistently well-informed and thoroughly advised. One of his standout strengths is his ability to leverage the expertise of both clients and specialists to strengthen the case or project.’
Key clients
- Church Commissioners for England
- Howard de Walden Estates Limited
Work highlights
Represented Access Self Storage in a contested boundary dispute concerning its site in High Wycombe, which concluded with a favourable determination after a five-day trial in January 2025.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
David Haines
Other key lawyers
Emma Humphreys; James Souter; Andrew Ross; Lauren Fraser; Hope Barton