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Freeths LLP

Freeths LLP

More information

England - London • Transport

3

Rail

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.'

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.

Tom Johnson
Tom Johnson
Practice head

Michael Bray; Tom Johnson

Other key lawyers

Iain Bowler