Shakespeare Martineau LLP‘s banking and finance team is regularly engaged by clients to handle a range of complex real estate finance and corporate banking matters. The practice is noted for its considerable expertise in the Islamic finance area, often advising the government on the impact of legislative changes on Islamic finance transactions. Naomi Tudor heads the corporate banking team, with expertise in corporate and property finance work on bilateral and syndicated transactions. In addition, Mohammed Saqub specialises in Islamic finance, handling related commercial property investment transactions and leading the team in this area.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Shakespeare Martineau has established a respected banking and finance practice, specialising in representing Islamic finance lenders.'

  • ‘Mohammed Saqub – Partner - is a venerable expert in Islamic finance. He is the first and only port of call on issues of Islamic finance by multiple Middle Eastern financial institutions. He offers an exceptional combination of knowledge of English Law, Islamic law and practical solutions.’

  • 'Client centric and work to deadlines.'

  • 'Efficient, good at resolving issues, able to progress matters at pace and communicate well.'

  • 'Very knowledgeable and responsive. Provides clear guidance on legal matters. Educates and answer all queries. Very efficient and maintain timelines as promised. All solicitors have extensive knowledge on legal matters and are ready to help and guide.'

Key clients

  • Lloyds Bank plc
  • Reliance Bank Limited
  • Santander UK Plc
  • Cynergy Bank
  • The Charity Bank Limited
  • Yorkshire Bank/Virgin Money
  • Habib Bank Zurich plc
  • Handelsbanken
  • HSBC UK Bank Plc
  • United Trust Bank Plc
  • Aldermore Bank Plc
  • Gatehouse Bank Plc
  • Al Rayan Bank Plc
  • Westgate Healthcare Group
  • Cambridge Capital Partners Limited
  • Sherwood Oak Homes Limited
  • Qatar International Bank Plc
  • OFFA
  • Primary Finance
  • Unity Trust Bank

Work highlights

Acted for Santander UK plc in connection with a £33m real estate finance term loan facility to a Birmingham-based student accommodation provider.
Assisted Lloyds Bank PLC on the £2.8m finance of five pharmacies located across England.
Advised on close to £500m worth of retail Islamic mortgages.

Lawyers

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

Naomi Tudor; Mohammed Saqub

Other key lawyers

Christopher Gayle; John Rice; Afreen Cole