Duncan Lewis Solicitors regularly represents landlords and tenants across the entire remit of social housing law matters, from possession and homelessness cases, disrepair issues, and succession for tenants, to unlawful evictions and neighbourhood disputes against local authorities. Key names within the team include Manjinder Kaur Atwal, who advises clients on landlord and tenant disputes, judicial review claims, and property nuisance issues, and Dianne Cowie, who has appeared before the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Bernadette Chikwe is another notable name with expertise in applications to suspend warrants of eviction. Daljit Singh is skilled in homelessness reviews and appeals in the County Court.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- 'One key strength lies in the firm's diverse expertise across various legal areas. Whether it's immigration, family law, employment, housing, or any other field, Duncan Lewis boasts a team of specialists well versed in different aspects of law. This breadth allows them to offer comprehensive legal solutions to clients facing multifaceted issues.’
‘The team across the board are strong in housing law knowledge. They are down-to-earth individuals and super professional. I always get a sense that they truly care about their clients and want the best outcome for them in their cases. It is a pleasure working with them.’
‘The standout individuals for us are Manjinder Kaur Atwal, who has unwavering energy and enthusiasm, and Daljit Singh, who is also a solid lawyer in the team, and they should be commended.’
‘This practice sets itself apart through its unwavering dedication to championing the causes of the underprivileged and persistently fighting for justice, even in cases that seem insurmountable. What potential clients will find most compelling about this team is their deep-seated commitment to equality and justice, qualities that permeate every aspect of their work.'
‘The individuals at this firm distinguish themselves through a remarkable blend of expertise, empathy, and dedication, which is vividly evident in their daily legal practices. Notably, Manjinder Kaur Atwal is a standout figure whose approach to legal challenges is both innovative and deeply compassionate.'
‘The firm has great strength in crossover knowledge, given its strength in immigration and community care law which very frequently are relevant to the client group, as well as great depth of experience across the range of social housing case types. The geographical reach of the firm is impressive. The firm has always been very innovative in terms of use of technology in practice.’
‘Dianne Cowie is a highly experienced, competent and effective litigator who is both tenacious and strategic in pursuing cases as long as necessary to get a successful client outcome.'
‘Vincent Davis is a measured and sensible solicitor with excellent experience.'
Work highlights
- Advising a client on a s.204 Housing Act Appeal that was issued to challenge the Council’s decision that accommodation was suitable.
- Representing a client in a Court of Appeal case following a negative review of a homelessness decision under s.202 of the Housing Act 1996.
- Representing a social tenant in procession proceedings.
Lawyers
Next generation partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Daljit Singh
Practice head
Manjinder Kaur Atwal; Dianne Cowie; Bernadette Chikwe; David Head; Hassan Dervish; Simeon Wilmore
Other key lawyers
Daljit Singh; Vincent Davis