Freeths LLP acts for domestic and foreign businesses in a wide range of matters including breach of contract claims, unlawful terminations and injunctive proceedings. The team is co-led by Richard Coates, who has a notable focus on the automotive sector, where he routinely acts for large UK car retailers, trade bodies and car dealer groups; and Louise Wilson, whose practice covers breach of warranty, fraudulent representation, negligence, product liability, and deceit claims. Michael Hoskins handles professional negligence claims against solicitors, insurance brokers, and Josh Middleton advises on group action claims, breach of warranty issues and professional negligence matters.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
- Profile
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Our experience of the Commercial Litigation team in Birmingham is highly positive, due to their understanding of both complex legal issues and business challenges. Their approach is practical and focused, ensuring that legal advice is always aligned with the client's business goals.'
‘The legal team are distinguished by their excellent legal skills and deep understanding of business contexts. They are very good at making complicated legal matters clear and actionable for their clients.'
‘Richard Coates is delightfully easy to work. Practical and sensible, he can find a solution that works. ’
‘The team have very strong client relationships because they are very good at looking after their interest.'
‘Josh Middleton - a gifted associate who is thorough, well prepared and punches well above his weight.'
- 'Louise Wilson - a talented commercial lawyer. Tenacious in defence of her clients best interests.’
‘The team have a pragmatic and common sense approach to litigation, as the Client I feel that they are acting in my best interests and that earning fees is not the main driver.’
‘Louise Wilson and Josh Middleton make an excellent team. Louise provides an overview of knowledge and experience whilst Josh carries out the day to day work whilst also providing sound advice.’
Key clients
- Aldi Stores Limited
- AP Racing Limited
- Eurocell PLC
- Hi55 Ventures Limited
- Lancaster PLC (owner of Jardine Motors Group)
- Lookers Motor Group Limited
- Michelin Tyre PLC
- Motorpoint Limited
- National Federation of Motor Dealers
- Porcelanosa Group
Work highlights
- Representing former shareholders in a dispute following the sale of a company, alleging breach of warranty, fraudulent misrepresentation and deceit, with a counterclaim for failing to follow the completion accounts process.
- Advising on a compensation Scheme for the sub-postmaster’s affected by the Horizon scandal.
- Acting in dispute between Stobart and a technology solutions provider in relation to the provider’s alleged deceit and misrepresentation.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Richard Coates; Louise Wilson
Other key lawyers
Michael Hoskins; Josh Middleton; Niamh Millross