Fielding a reputation as an authority in the social housing sector is Freeths LLP's real estate team, which regularly handles a wide range of house building and development matters for an expansive client roster that covers retail, hospitality, and leisure-based clients. Praised as ‘approachable, professional and commercially astute’ is head of the practice Lucy Bradban, a thoroughly experienced real estate lawyer recognised for her complex transactional work, secured lending projects, and corporate banking transactions. Shashi Chambers handles a prolific flow of complex, high-value transactions, development works and secured finance matters, with noted specialisms in supporting global logistics and transport clients with their projects. Adept in handling the full lifecycle of development land transactions, from acquisition and site assembly to disposal, is Darren Debock.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Freeths are an extremely professional and efficient firm who offer unparalleled legal knowledge and advice to its clients.'
'Whilst a large firm they place great importance on being a part of the local community and are great supporters of charities and local initiatives.’
‘Lucy Bradban is an exceptional property lawyer, very approachable, professional and commercially astute. She leads a great team with an all round attention to detail and a commercial, pragmatic approach.'
'Lucy Bradban is capable of handling high value and complex property and banking issues with ease. She is tenacious, patient and a great problem solver with a keen intellect that provides you with great confidence.'
'What makes the team at Freeths LLP unique is their deep understanding of how legal frameworks intersect with purpose-driven, community-led regeneration. For clients navigating the charitable, heritage, or public sector landscape, Freeths offers not just legal expertise but sector insight and strategic foresight. Their team is collaborative, agile, and genuinely mission-aligned, working closely with clients to overcome barriers rather than simply identifying them.'
'Potential clients should know that Freeths combines the rigour of a top-tier commercial firm with the empathy and adaptability that purpose-led organisations demand. Their multi-disciplinary strengths mean they can manage complex legal projects involving property, governance, planning, and funding with seamless coordination.'
'They are forward-thinking in their use of technology, streamlining processes and improving transparency through digital platforms. Innovations such as flexible billing models, a demonstrable commitment to diversity and inclusion, and a culture that encourages collaborative problem-solving make them stand out from traditional firms.'
'For organisations who want a legal partner that understands nuance, context, and impact, Freeths offers a rare and highly valuable blend of capability and care.'
Key clients
- Vistry Group PLC
- Abbey Developments Limited
- FedEx Group of Companies
- London Luton Airport
- Allica Bank Limited
- Olympian Homes
- APCOA Parking (UK) Ltd
- Milton Keynes Council
- Milton Keynes Parks Trust
- Advanced Software
- Bristol Airport
- Dawsongroup
- Wells & Co
- Milton Keynes Development Partnership LLP
- Monument Bank Limited
- Basildon Borough Council
- Karali Group
Work highlights
Advised Basildon Borough Council on a multi-million pound acquisition for the provision of registered housing with a value in excess of £50m.
Representing Karali Group in connection with its purchase of 46 Taco Bell branches with significant national presence and job security assured for hundreds of people.
Advising Vistry on the strategic acquisition of a 500+ plot site in Essex with a GDV in excess of £100m.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
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.
Lucy Richardson
Practice head
Lucy Bradban
Other key lawyers
Shashi Chambers; Darren Debock; Lucy Richardson