Osbornes houses an experienced social housing team, advising vulnerable clients on housing disrepair, homelessness, evictions, anti-social behaviour, asylum accommodation, possession and discrimination claims. William Ford heads the practice and has experience representing clients in a broad range of housing matters, including homelessness appeals, defending disrepair claims and unlawful evictions, as well as acting for clients in judicial review challenges. Promoted to partner in June 2024, Edward Taylor acts for vulnerable individuals, including those who are homeless and have mental health issues. Taylor also acts for clients in complex disrepair and possession claims. Alex McMahon is a key member of the team and focuses on cases in relation to the Equality Act 2010 and human rights defences.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Osbornes is in the top tier of social housing law firms, with a great track record and reputation and strong practitioners across the field.’

  • ‘William Ford is one of the top figures in the field, with a towering reputation. He has conducted difficult cases in the highest courts, but is equally at home achieving difficult results for clients entirely under the radar.'

  • ‘An outstanding firm in the field, with excellent members who consciously develop their clients' best cases in this notoriously difficult field.’

  • ‘They know the area of law well; they work efficiently and are dedicated to achieving the best outcome for the client. They prepare matters well and in good time, allowing me as counsel to do my job effectively.’

  • ‘William Ford is an excellent solicitor.’

  • 'Top notch - a pleasure to be instructed by.'

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.

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

William Ford

Other key lawyers

Edward Taylor; Alex McMahon; Adele Pinkett; Sam O’Flaherty; Alex Panayi; Muna Adam; Mandy Groves