Ashfords LLP‘s practice stands out for its diverse workload for local authorities and London boroughs, in addition to its experience acting for a number of private sector clients, including retailers and property developers. James Hemsley leads the team, advising developers, banks and multinational companies on a range of work, most notably property insolvency matters and secured recoveries. Sian Gibbon assists clients with contentious property matters and her practice is focused on commercial landlord and tenant and real property disputes as well as telecoms, right of light and Building Safety Act matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘I have worked with Sophie Michaelides and James Hemsley. I found them knowledgeable, attentive and helpful.’
‘The Ashfords team is highly efficient and keen to achieve the best results for their clients. They ensure that instructions to Counsel are crystal clear and are always available to respond to email inquiries and provide instructions on the telephone if required urgently at court. The team consistently knows their case and client and strives to progress matters so that the best results can be achieved at court.’
‘Deep understanding of the needs of public bodies and the property issues they encounter.’
‘Friendly and approachable, commercial thinkers.’
‘An impressive firm in the property litigation world.’
‘James Hemsley - a great partner focused on delivering the final product to the client. Sophie Michaelides - excellent associate with great legal knowledge.’
Key clients
- London Borough of Southwark
- London Borough of Lambeth
- St. Mungo Community Housing Association
- Brick by Brick Limited
- The Guinness Partnership Limited
- London Gateway (LG Park Leasehold Limited)
- London Boroughs of Wandsworth and Richmond
- Pinnacle Group Limited
- CDS (Superstores International) Limited ("the Range")
- University of Plymouth
- State Credit and Investment Limited
- Courtenay Group of Companies
Work highlights
Advising a group of leaseholders in relation to the proposed demolition of their properties by the freeholder in order to remediate significant fire safety and structural issues with the building.
Advising and assisting the London Borough of Lambeth’s disrepair and surveying teams on their obligations and liabilities with a view to disposing of and reducing 900 + disrepair claim. Also advising them on the regulatory requirements of the Housing Ombudsman and Central Government.
Advising Sevcap I Limited and fixed charge receivers in relation to the recovery of a loan relating to the development of a church in Bath.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
James Hemsley
Other key lawyers
Sian Gibbon; Marjorie Batten; Sophie Michaelides