
Gateley Legal assists housebuilders, commercial developers, institutional landowners, retail occupiers, and international corporations on all aspects of residential and commercial development, property finance, real estate investment, and property litigation matters. James Sargent and John Kiff jointly lead the practice, with Kiff heading the separate residential development team. Sargent handles all aspects of non-contentious real estate, including conditional contracts, option agreements, and leases; while Kiff focuses on complex site assembly and strategic land acquisition.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- ‘I think the team at Gateley Legal are very competent in their every day activity. Our work is often time critical, but this doesn't present any problems with the team, who push to ensure that deadlines are always met. They work to very standards and this is reflected in the work they carry out on our behalf and the professional conduct.'
- ‘I often work with a number of individuals across a couple of the teams at Gateley Legal. They all share the same credentials in wanting to get the job done correctly, efficiently and to the high standards that the practice is known for. I have never had any issues with anyone at the practice and can always get in contact, when required.’
- ‘John Kiff and Cheryl Midgley are a fantastic attribute to the larger Gateley brand. They are personable and friendly where as some competitors are often robotic and lack a personal touch.'
- ‘Gateley provide a very client focused approach to every site that comes forward. The team has a wide range of knowledge and expertise which allows for comprehensive and efficient outcomes. They are responsive and proactive whilst delivery a quality service which is key to helping the client hit demanding deadlines.
- ‘The team at Gateley have an excellent balance of friendliness and professionalism. I have worked with the team on many projects over the past 10 years and have always found their service to be of the highest quality.’
Key clients
- Miller Homes Limited
- Broadland Properties Limited
- Lidl
- Bellway Homes Limited
Work highlights
Advised a new market entrant on their acquisition of a serviced parcel at a wider development in South Yorkshire, funded via a facility agreement with a specialist property lender.
Advising a joint venture partnership on a major long-term regeneration scheme of c. 15-years which will deliver 2,300 units and bring economic benefits to the region - from jobs and apprenticeships to new homes and economic growth with the use of local suppliers.
Lawyers
Next generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head
James Sargent; John Kiff
Other key lawyers
Keelie Evans; Barbara Rollin; Cheryl Midgley
