Freeths LLP’s rail team has grown in visibility, with an expanding client base and a steady flow of complex, high-value work across the sector. The firm advises a wide range of stakeholders, including rolling stock-owning companies, freight and passenger operators, rolling stock manufacturers, developers, and infrastructure investors. The practice draws on broader firm expertise to advise local authorities and transport bodies on rail-related policy development, franchising models, and decarbonisation initiatives, including electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Tom Johnson is particularly noted for his expertise in rolling stock procurement, leasing, maintenance, refurbishment, franchising, concessions, and financing. Michael Bray is a highly experienced real estate lawyer who advises private, public, and government clients on logistics matters. Iain Bowler‘s transactional practice often sees him active in rail matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
'We work with Tom Johnson for his experience and skills in rail transport leasing and similar areas.’
‘The experience of Tom Johnson helps to understand our legal issues.’
'Tom Johnson is approachable, highly intelligent, and has a sound knowledge of the rail industry.'
- 'Experienced in the subject area and brings a sound commercial perspective to support negotiations.'
- 'Michael Bray and Emilie Criddle - Both provided good strategic and specific advice, consistently looked for practical solutions to resolve points of dispute, and maintained a calm and positive approach through what was a high-pressure set of negotiations.'
- 'Tom Johnson is a trusted and experienced provider of asset finance related legal advice.'
- 'The team is obviously experienced in the subject area and brings a sound commercial perspective to support negotiations.'
- 'Michael Bray provided good strategic and specific advice, consistently looked for practical solutions to resolve points of dispute and maintained a clam and positive approach through what was a high pressure set of negotiations.'
- 'Freeths is growing as an excellent value for money force in the rail sector. They have a wide range of decent support services and are flexible and nimble when it comes to meeting our needs.'
- 'Tom Johnson stands out as an individual with a wealth of experience in the rail industry. Tom has been working on rial transaction for 30 years is able to deliver practical advice and helpful insight where needed. He is a valuable support when the going gets tough and is focussed on closing out a deal in a timely and efficient manner.'
Key clients
- Porterbrook
- Leicester City Council
- Related Argent
- Hitachi Rail Limited
- GB Railfreight
- HS1
- Stadler Rail
- Crown Commercial Services Public Sector Legal Services, Lot 3, Rail
- Walsall Council
- Travis Perkins Plc
- Various Local Authorities and Transport Bodies
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.
Practice head
Michael Bray; Tom Johnson
Other key lawyers
Iain Bowler