Howes Percival LLP > Milton Keynes, England > Firm Profile

Howes Percival LLP
FIRST FLOOR, BELL HOUSE, SEEBECK PLACE
KNOWLHILL
MILTON KEYNES
MK5 8FR
England

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP's Milton Keynes-based corporate, commercial and banking team routinely advises on a broad range of matters including acquisitions, disposals and private equity transactions. The group remains known in the marketplace for its expertise regarding work arising out of the motor retail automotive sector. Tom Redman now heads the practice and comes highly recommended for his ‘approachability and readiness’. Former practice head Andrew Harris remains a key member of the team, lending his demonstrable expertise to M&A, private equity transactions and corporate reorganisations. Technology and automotive expert Chris White is an important point of contact on the commercial side of the practice.

Practice head(s):

Tom Redman

Other key lawyers:

Andrew Harris; Chris White; Paula Dumbill

Testimonials

‘The firm is able to provide end-to-end support on various matters for our business (which is a fast growing SME). The partners we have worked with have been very approachable, commercial in their approach and quick to provide flexible solutions to our issues.’

‘I would like to commend Tom Redman for his approachability and readiness to always support our team.’

Key clients

Group 1 Automotive UK Limited

Steven Eagell Limited

Glyn Hopkin Holdings Limited

BGF – Business Growth Fund

Stonbury Holdings Limited

Polyco Healthline Group Limited

MacConsulting Limited

August Holdco Limited

Interfoam Group Limited

Raffenday Limited

FRF (South Wales) Limited

LDC

Listers Group Limited

Tripod Crest

Work highlights

  • Advising on the purchase of 19 Toyota/Lexus dealership, having advised for 3 separate AM Top 100 motor dealer groups on their acquisition from Marshalls of their entire network of Toyota and Lexus dealerships across 19 sites.
  • Advising on the disposal of KSL Clinic Limited (KSL) by a new Foresight company, which involved the simultaneous management rollover in to KSL for a combination of debt and equity.
  • Advised the senior management team of 10 on the MBO of Bedford-headquartered, UK water and environmental sustainability specialist Stonbury Holdings Limited, by a new LDC-backed entity.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Media and entertainment Tier 1

Noted for providing ‘reliable, trustworthy' advice, Howes Percival LLP is lauded for its vast experience in the publishing industry. The group operates across a wide variety of creative industries such as TV, film, and videogames, and is led by James Howarth, who is particularly adept at representing claimants in defamation and privacy cases. Cathleen Blackburn and Steven Maier are well versed in IP disputes, while Chris White represents rights holders and service providers for high-profile sporting events. Frequently receiving instructions from music, publishing, and theatre clients, Jenna Bruce leads the firm’s non-contentious offering, regularly advising on the drafting of rights agreements.

Practice head(s):

James Howarth

Testimonials

‘Very good team with comprehensive knowledge of media and entertainment issues.’

‘James Howarth is excellent.’

‘They are a knowledgable and experienced firm, able to provide reliable, trustworthy advice.’

‘We work regularly with Cathleen Blackburn who is always able to give us helpful, thorough and reassuring advice and counsel.’

Key clients

The Tolkien Estate

Agatha Christie Limited

Magda Archer

Cochrane Collaboration

European Association of Archaeologists

M C Beaton Literary Estate

David Shrigley

Estate of Peter Mayle

MassiveMusic

U.P. Fitness

Welbeck Publishing

Sounds Like Publishing

Dolce Music Limited

Quarto Group plc

Relay Publishing

Work highlights

  • Advised the Tolkien Estate in connection with the repeated infringement of its intellectual property rights in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP has the region’s largest debt recovery team and frequently handles high-value and complex matters, not least through its position on the Crown Commercial Services Panel, which generates significant work for The Insolvency Service. Insolvency partner Morris Peacock and contentious debt recovery specialist Gordon Simpson in Norwich, and Cambridge-based litigator Michael Green are the lead partners. Simpson frequently handles the enforcement of hire agreements for car dealer Bussey & Sabberton Bros. Ltd. William Shirley in Norwich is the client partner for the work carried out on behalf of the Official Receivers across England and Wales.

Practice head(s):

Gordon Simpson; Morris Peacock; Michael Green

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

Bussey & Sabberton Bros. Limited

The Insolvency Service

Work highlights

Employment > Health and safety Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP climbs the ranking this year having grown the team and won a number of new clients. The vastly experienced former practice head Alan Millband has stepped back to the role of consultant; Robert Starr, who works from both the Cambridge and Northampton offices, now leads on health and safety matters. He brings to bear extensive experience in fatal accident cases in the rail, food, retail and care sectors together with colleagues who are regulatory experts.

Practice head(s):

Robert Starr

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘This is a strong team with an appropriate level of support within the wider firm. They provide (in the best sense) a fairly traditional attentive client service with real expertise.’

‘Rob Starr has a great background and lots of experience. He is a good lawyer and very focused on the needs of the client.’

‘We found Robert Starr and his team to be very responsive to our queries and we always felt we were receiving excellent, timely client care and support at a difficult time for our business following an employee accident. ’

‘Robert Starr carried out a very thorough health and safety investigation with our employees, preparing witness statements and briefing the management team throughout. As a business, we felt supported and prepared for a potential investigation by the HSE. We were guided through the possible scenarios and their outcomes and we felt we’d received excellent advice throughout.’

Key clients

Citation Limited

Millstream Estate Services Limited

Hamilton Deed

Anchor Hanover Group

Cubic Works Limited

Work highlights

  • Assisting Millstream Estate Services Limited with investigation of skylight accident causing significant injury, including collation of relevant documentary evidence and obtaining witness statements from relevant members of staff and witnesses at the scene.
  • Representing CubicWorks Limited in a prosecution for offences under s.3 of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 following a fall from height.

Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1

The insolvency practice at Howes Percival LLP 'always delivers the right balance of senior level input and supervision', and its 'experience of large, high-profile insolvency litigation for the government is unparalleled'. Head of insolvency and corporate recovery Michael Green in Cambridge and Norwich-based Morris Peacock, who 'commands the complete confidence' and leads the firm's work for the Insolvency Service, are the principal contacts. Green recently assisted Mazars LLP with the bankruptcy of a former Times Rich List entrant with a reputed wealth of over £42m. In Norwich, William Shirley and senior associates Leon Head and the 'firm but friendly' Patrick Manning all play key roles in the practice.

Practice head(s):

Michael Green; Morris Peacock

Other key lawyers:

William Shirley; Leon Head; Patrick Manning; Phillippa Summerlee; Victoria Sandell; Eleanor Waters

Testimonials

‘Morris Peacock – Hugely experienced lawyer who has excellent insolvency expertise and is particularly adept at handling large litigation for government clients. He commands the complete confidence of the client in difficult, high profile cases.’

‘William Shirley – Excellent understanding of insolvency law and procedures and a very good draftsman. He is able to give very commercial advice and is particularly experienced in liquidator actions.’

‘Patrick Manning – very experienced trial lawyer. Excellent skills in running litigation that is tactically complex and paper heavy.’

‘Morris Peacock is an expert practitioner and can be relied upon for thorough and well-considered advice. He is practical, hard working and conscientious and, no matter what is required, Morris will do what is necessary to complete the task. He is personable and a very safe pair of hands. I would not hesitate to recommend him and his team in this area of work.’

‘William Shirley is very user-friendly and keeps the team in check. Patrick Manning is exceptional in his manner with respondents – firm but friendly to achieve realistic outcomes Leon Head is very responsive and technically able. Phillippa Summerlee is calm, efficient and organised, moving cases along with politeness and skill. they are a real ‘go to’ favourite team.’

‘The team are always quick and diligent in responding, providing advice and updating clients regularly.’

‘Michael Green and Leon Head are diligent, provide sound advice setting out all available options enabling decisions to be made with clear justification. They always make time to deal with urgent matters.’

‘Michael Green is an exceptional lawyer.’

Key clients

The Insolvency Service

Mazars LLP

MacIntyre Hudson (Baker Tilly Group)

Peter Elsworthy & Moore Limited t/a PEM

BDO UK LLP

The Official Receiver for England and Wales

Manolete

FRP Advisory

Henderson & Jones

McTear Williams & Wood

PKF Smith Cooper

Edge Recovery

Work highlights

  • Acting for the successful liquidators in pursuing a former director for misfeasance, wrongful trading and transactions at undervalue in the reported case of Liquidators of Safe Depot Ltd –v- Mr Sabir Esa and Stone Key Ltd.
  • Acting for the Secretary of State in relation to the BHS collapse and pursuit of errant directors, actions for misfeasance and disqualification proceedings.
  • Acting for trustees in bankruptcy of multi-million pound bankruptcy involving overseas assets, unwinding transactions of airline; tracing of properties; orders for this party IT system searches and multiple actions to trace assets.

Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate: Norwich Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP has a stellar reputation for private client work. Tom Lawrence leads the practice and has a strong track record in advising high-net-worth families and business owners on wealth management, while Stuart Maggs handles estate planning for ultra-high-net-worth families and trustees, frequently those with significant corporate or property holdings. Katharine Danks is a key adviser to farmers, families and landed estates. Director Lauren Abbs joined from Clapham & Collinge Solicitors in late 2023 to add skills in estate administration and succession planning. Senior associate Jan Tyler is also highly rated. 'The sheer intelligence of the team and its abilities to solve issues for clients in difficult situations is second to none', remarks one client.

Practice head(s):

Tom Lawrence

Testimonials

‘Jan Tyler has demonstrated excellent knowledge on trust and probate matters, has communicated well with clients and been a pleasure to work with. A collaborative approach with other professionals is used which clients like.’

‘Tom Lawrence – strong technical knowledge ’

‘Strong team, high quality lawyers with excellent knowledge’

‘Lauren Abbs has always been a standout lawyer, both in her ability to be personable but clear and concise in her communication with clients and other professionals alike. She is highly regarded by all who have worked with her, and any client of mine who has worked with her, so much so that those I have spoken with would follow her from firm to firm.

‘Tom Lawrence is an exceptional ambassador to the firm. He is well known and liked through the city and is a highly respected lawyer. ’

Work highlights

Real estate > Commercial property: Cambridge Tier 1

The Cambridge office of Howes Percival LLP plays a pivotal role in its national commercial property offering, which is known for ‘value, high standards, and quick turnaround‘. Practice head Michaela Henson has long been acknowledged as a standout adviser on strategic land development. She recently assisted Mortar Investment Group with the financing of a portfolio of buy-to-let properties. Commercial property investment partner Steven Beach, emerging partner talent Elizabeth Thomas, who handles complex matters in the education, commercial investment and development sectors, and experienced landing and tenant adviser Susanne Hinde round out a practice that is ‘helpful and delivers consistently‘. Tim Bacon joined the practice in June 2024.

Practice head(s):

Michaela Henson

Other key lawyers:

Steven Beach; Susanne Hinde; Elizabeth Thomas; Scott Smith; Emma Bowman; Tim Bacon

Testimonials

‘I have been using the practice exclusively for estate-related matters. Compared to other firms I have used their ability to provide and deliver on timescales is a major advantage. The practice has a varied skill set so even when something unusual crops up on a property matter they have staff on hand with more specialist knowledge that can step in to assist.’

‘The fact that timescales will be given and consistently met, great communication to keep me updated on progress, and any alterations to fees are always transparent with sound rationale provided. I wouldn’t go anywhere else, and fully trust them to act in my best interest and always willing to break things down to ensure I fully understand the implications.’

‘This is a team that is helpful and delivers consistently. They have a tenacity and understanding to complement our internal teams.’

‘Scott Smith is always will to help, not just providing advice but assisting with negotiations too.’

‘Their team gives me excellent personal service and always respond in a timely fashion to my needs.’

‘Emma Bowman is polite, knowledgeable, instantly accessible and helpful, as is partner Susanne Hinde.’

‘Emma Bowman is a brilliant property lawyer with lots of time and expertise, her personal touch is always appreciated, she obviously cares deeply for her clients and ensures we spend time outside of the transaction to get to know one another.’

Key clients

University of Cambridge

Greene King PLC

Xaar plc

Bidwells LLP

Raspberry Pi Ltd

Ansys UK Limited

Ieso Digital Health Limited

Turnstone Estates Limited

East Cambs Trading Company Limited (trading as Palace Green Homes)

Welch’s Group Holdings Limited

Newcore Capital Management LLP

Ely Cathedral

Laragh House Developments Ltd

Luton Hoo Estate

Abcam PLC

Girton College, Cambridge

Mortar Investments PTE Limited

Camel Projects Limited

FH Great Shelford Limited

John Huntingdon’s Charity

Artisan (UK) Developments Limited

Merlin Real Estate Limited

Lower 48 Energy BESS Limited

Acora Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Turnstone Colchester Limited in relation to the development of the 160,000 sq ft Northern Gateway leisure park with GDV of £70 million.
  • Advised Raspberry Pi Ltd in taking an assignment of an £800,000 per annum lease on Cambridge Science Park from CMR Surgical Limited to aid the client’s expansion plans.
  • Advised an almshouse charity client on the acquisition of 25 affordable homes to add to its portfolio of properties for rent worth circa £5 million.

Real estate > Commercial property: Norwich Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP has 'a great group of specialist property lawyers who work well collaboratively and as part of a wider professional team'. The firm is highly regarded for commercial and residential development projects, investment and property finance, and has notable expertise in specific sectors such as energy infrastructure. The practice is led by Joanna Nicholls, who handles property finance and landlord/tenant matters, and development specialist Christopher Cubitt. Real estate finance specialist Tessa Haskey and social housing partner Estelle Corner also play key roles in high-value transactions. Nicola Curle joined Birketts LLP, but the firm hired development specialist James Henderson from Aviva. Cubitt advised Persimmon Homes Limited in numerous site acquisitions.

Practice head(s):

Joanna Nicholls; Christopher Cubitt

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They are a great group of specialist property lawyers who work well collaboratively and as part of a wider professional team.’

‘Individually and collectively Chris Cubitt, Will Bond and the team work with us on issues and problems.’

Key clients

Norwich University of the Arts

International Aviation Academy – Norwich

North Hertfordshire College

Norse Group

South Norfolk Council

Broadland District Council

Braintree District Council

Handelsbanken Plc

Bank of Scotland Plc

National Westminster Bank Plc

RQ Capital Ltd

HSBC Asset Finance (UK) Ltd

Santander UK Plc

Persimmon Homes Limited

Bennett Plc

Hopkins Homes Ltd

Bayfield Homes Ltd

Axis Land Partnerships Limited

Pigeon Capital Management Limited

Esco Developments Ltd

Lovell Flagship LLP

Lovell Partnerships Ltd

Flagship Housing Developments Limited

Lothbury Property Trust

Ben Burgess Holdings Ltd

Anglia Maltings Holdings Limited

Peter Colby Commercial Limited

Hughes Electrical Limited

East of England Co-operative Society Limited

Anglia Restaurants Limited

Richardsons Leisure Limited

Norfolk Broads Direct Limited

Craft Leisure Limited

Anglia Leisure Limited

Greene King Limited

Norse Care

Norfolk and Norwich Association for the Blind (Vision Norfolk)

Abacus Hotels Limited

Ford Retail Limited

Bidwells LLP

Futurebiogas Limited

Raspberry Pi Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised the North Ease Norwich Landowners consortium on the promotion and sale of the consortium site for a proposed 3,500 dwelling development.
  • Advised Axis Land Partnerships Limited as promoter entering into a multi-landowner promotion agreement for the proposed development of in excess of 1,400 homes in Kent.

Real estate > Planning and environment Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP has a strong planning practice in East Anglia and further afield, and it handles Environmental Impact Assessments and applications for planning permission on behalf of both developers and landowners. Jay Mehta, who works from both Norwich and Cambridge, co-leads the practice along with Paul Hunt in Leicester. 'It truly feels as though they have the client's best interests at the forefront of their advice', clients remark. 'His attention to detail and speed to turn work round has been fantastic', say clients of director Jamie Childs. Mehta and Childs recently acted for Persimmon Homes in several new developments across Suffolk and Essex.

Practice head(s):

Jay Mehta; Paul Hunt

Other key lawyers:

Jamie Childs; Beth Boucher

Testimonials

‘Jamie Childs has been excellent upon every project I have worked alongside him on. His attention to detail and speed to turn work round has been fantastic.’

‘Jamie Childs is an excellent planning lawyer. Clear-headed and knowledgeable.’

‘Jay Mehta and Jamie Childs are regarded as top-tier planning and development solicitors, and trusted amongst colleagues and clients alike.’

‘Jamie Childs and Jay Mehta are both very experienced, knowledgeable and astute to client’s needs to provide clear and credible legal advice on complex matters. Their planning legal knowledge is extensive and always adds value to projects.’

‘You feel like you are the most important client, their attention to detail and level of customer experience is exceptional. Their roadshows to update the planning sector on movements in case law and legislation sets them apart from their competitors.’

‘Jay Mehta provides us with expert planning advice and is a valued member of our external project team, advising us on all aspects of planning law. He provides expert advice on all planning law matters including advice on strategy. He consistently provides first rate legal advice, combining best in class advice on planning matters with exceptional commercial awareness.’

‘Jay Mehta – highly capable individual with great knowledge and industry experience. Has a real understanding of how to approach matters strategically.’

‘Jay Mehta is a highly regarded and well-respected planning lawyer, with a huge amount of experience in navigating a successful path through complex legislation and case law. Jay is complemented in the team by Beth Boucher, who brings a thoroughly capable and diligent approach to all matters.’

Key clients

Barratt David Wilson Homes (BDW Trading Limited)

Minster Property Group Limited

Saffron Housing Trust Limited

Tilia Homes Limited

Pentaco Construction Limited

Linden (Thurston) LLP

Linden (Highfields Caldecote) LLP

Vistry Homes Limited (including Countryside Partnerships)

Suffolk County Council

Persimmon Homes

Ptarmigan Land Limited

Allison Homes Norfolk & Suffolk Limited

Abel Homes Limited

Home Builders Federation

Taylor Wimpey UK Limited

Flagship Group (including Victory Housing)

Pigeon Group

Endurance Estates

Turnstone Estates

Breckland District Council

South Holland District Council

Elemento Group

This Land Limited

Big Sky Developments Limited T/A Big Sky Living

Axis Land Partnerships

Serruys Property Company Limited

NEEB Holdings

Crisp Maltings Group / Anglia Maltings (Holdings) Limited

Heritage Developments Limited

Laragh House Developments Limited

Enterprise Residential Development Limited

ESCO Developments Ltd

Lovell Partnerships Limited

Hundred Houses Society Limited

Wellington Construction

Bennett Plc

Fleur Developments Limited

Orchard Homes (East Anglia) Limited

Burgess Homes Limited

Building Partnerships Limited

University of East Anglia

Halsbury Homes Limited

Hopkins Homes Limited

Jaynic

Wain Estates

Herts Living Limited

AvantGlamp

Work highlights

  • Advised Persimmon Homes Limited on a number of large scale and complex legal agreements including concluding a s.106 agreement for a development of 950 dwellings in Clacton, Essex and a nature-based solution to achieve nutrient neutrality in Norfolk.
  • Provided legal support to Barratt David Wilson on its 600 dwelling development at Knights Hill, King’s Lynn which secured reserved matters approval in Autumn 2023.
  • Advised a landowner consortium on the planning law aspects of the disposal of the 3,520 dwelling Beeston Park development to the north of Norwich.

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP's property litigation group is 'responsive and geared to getting good commercial outcomes'. East Anglia is a significant hub for the firm-wide practice, which is led by the 'knowledgable, tenacious and committed 'Jamie Kidd in Norwich, and the 'responsive, practical and pragmatic' Simon Murphy in Cambridge. Kidd's team focuses on land and development issues for landed estates, housebuilders and large corporates. Murphy's team, in which director Leanne Davis is a key figure, has in-depth experience in landlord and tenant matters, and manages numerous property portfolios, as well as handling lease renewals and exits.

Practice head(s):

Jamie Kidd; Simon Murphy

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Jamie Kidd – very experienced property litigator. He has excellent judgement in managing complex property issues, including right to light cases.

‘Simon Murphy is responsive, practical and pragmatic.’

‘The property litigation team at Howes Percival are quick to react to their client’s needs and offer considered advice when faced with property challenges.’

‘Jamie Kidd briefly stepped in at short notice and maintained the same quality of legal service we had come to expect.’

‘Jamie Kidd is a very knowledgeable, tenacious and committed lawyer whom I would recommend to anyone needing a real estate litigator in this area. Responsive and geared to getting good commercial outcomes.’

Key clients

Greene King Plc

Cambridge University Endowment Fund

Davidson Homes

Ministry Of Defence

Cholmondeley Estate

Norwich Cathedral

C Brewer & Sons Limited

Lothbury

Hughes Electrical

Ely Cathedral

Celfone Trading Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised individuals and a developer in connection with a claim for overage with a value of £1.8m.
  • Advising on the methods to terminate a conditional land purchase agreement with a residential developer with a value of £11m.
  • Providing strategic advice in relation to a substantial development in London. Advice covering potential interference with rights of access and rights of light with a value of £20m.

Real estate > Social housing Tier 1

The team at Howes Percival LLP is 'has an unrivalled depth and breadth of knowledge and experience across the social housing sector'. The practice is led by the 'infinitely knowledgeable, astute' Estelle Corner in Norwich, who handles development and property transactions, and Cambridge-based Simon Murphy, whose prime focus is on housing management matters. Senior associate Jonathan Parker in Norwich 'takes time to carefully understand his clients' objectives and provide creative solutions'. Michaela Henson in Cambridge is a key adviser on commercial property transactions, and Norwich-based associate Katie Reading assists housing authorities, local authorities and private developers with affordable housing matters.

Practice head(s):

Estelle Corner; Simon Murphy

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The firm provides a very personal service – they are very quick to respond to all communications and offer helpful advice in a clear and concise fashion. They also provide excellent value and are transparent on fee levels.’

‘Jonathan Parker takes time to carefully understand his clients’ objectives and provides creative solutions to achieve those objectives. He takes a collaborative approach with clients and other solicitors to build consensus and buy in to reach agreement. ’

‘Estelle Corner is an excellent communicator at all levels that always provides excellent service and has great knowledge a managers her team effectively to get results and meet deadlines. Jonathan Parker, I’ve worked with for many years, and we have an excellent relationship he communicates with me and will always go the extra mile to identify possible problems and implement solutions and always meets deadlines.’

‘Jonathan Parker – excellent knowledge, personable and always professional. Explains things clearly, highlights issues in advance and recommends solutions. Estelle Corner – excellent knowledge on shared ownership and new model lease, keeping up to date on changes to regulation and legislation. Sally Rackham – excellent sales knowledge including SO, staircasing, RTA etc with many years of experience, reliable, professional and very responsive.’

‘The team has a wealth of knowledge in social housing conveyancing, providing a comprehensive service at all levels from basic transactions to complex matters.

‘All team members are friendly and approachable, delivering a great service across in a user friendly way. Estelle Corner and Jonathan Parker lead by example so their entire team follows their lead in providing a comprehensive service that is timely and effective. They are readily available to answer any questions and working through matters together making sure us as client understand the issues and risks fully without baffling us with jargon and technical language!’

‘Estelle Corner is brilliant as the team leader, she embodies everything you would want from your legal team. She is admirably backed up by Jonathan Parker and Katie Reading, who are both a pleasure to work with too.’

‘Estelle Corner (and her team) are always happy to help and advise where possible, including going further than required to provide information direct to our customers to help processes move forward. The willingness to help together with taking the time to explain more complex legal situations to me and my team, and a general positivity and friendly, caring approach.’

Key clients

Accent Group

Allison Homes Norfolk and Suffolk Limited

Anchor Hanover Group

Broadland Development Services Limited

Broadland Housing Association Limited

Broadland St Benedicts Limited

Borough Council of Kings Lynn and West Norfolk

Crimson Development Homes Limited

Crocus Contractors Limited (subsidiary of Saffron Housing Trust)

Equinox Property Holdings Limited

Flagship Housing Group Limited

Freebridge Community Housing Limited

Hundred Houses Society Limited

Orwell Housing Association Limited

Saffron Housing Trust Limited

South Holland District Council

The Cambridge Housing Society Limited

This Land Development Limited

West Norfolk Housing Company

V&F Homes Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised various regional RPs and local developers on s106 acquisitions and disposals that will deliver over 700 affordable homes in the East of England with a total package price in excess of £108,000,000.
  • Advised Saffron Housing Trust on their largest land-led development with delivering 461 homes plus an independent living facility.
  • Advised Freebridge Community Housing Limited on acquisition of 78 grant-funded affordable homes being delivered through a partnership between the Borough Council and its development partner.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Elsewhere in East Midlands Tier 1

Acquisition financing, corporate banking matters, as well as real estate developments are cornerstones of practice at Howes Percival LLP. In Northampton, Matthew Thompson leads on mid-market M&A transactions and is a strong choice for large and SME owner-managed businesses. Paula Dumbill is knowledgeable of commercial trading agreements and is lauded as ‘exceptionally patient and highly organised.’ Haydon Simmonds leads the East Midlands banking and finance team, while Miles Barnes is praised by clients as an ‘excellent, deal-orientated solicitor’, and is knowledgeable of distribution, licensing, and manufacturing. Gerald Couldrake is another key team member and Gareth John joined the practice in May 2024.

Practice head(s):

Matt Thompson; Paula Dumbill; Haydon Simmonds

Other key lawyers:

Miles Barnes; Gerald Couldrake; Katherine Cereghino; Jeremy Hyde; Ben Hancox; Gareth John

Testimonials

‘We have received a good service from the team who always acted in an efficient and professional manner, providing advice and guidance often to very tight deadlines.’

‘Howes Percival boasts a formidable presence with multiple offices strategically positioned across the East Midlands. Each location houses high-caliber legal professionals with a breadth of experience across various disciplines.’

‘The team has a strong bench of talent. They’re consistently one of the top performing corporate teams in the East Midlands and work on their fair share of deals in the region. Within the team they have experience of EOTs as well as mainstream disposals, restructurings, de-mergers and acquisitions.’

‘Paula Dumbill has been exceptionally patient and highly organised in dealing with our contract negotiations. She always responded in a timely fashion.’

‘Paula Dumbill is easy to contact and quick to respond to queries, and overall it was very pleasant to call and speak to her directly.’

‘Miles Barnes is our main point of contact and we have successfully worked together on many transactions over the years. Miles is an excellent, deal orientated solicitor. ’

‘Matthew Thompson is an exceptional young partner with a very bright future ahead of him. He offered intelligent and measured advice at all stages of the deal whilst remaining completely calm under pressure. He is extremely hard working and always easy to contact and available at all hours, I could not recommend Matthew’s services more highly.’

‘Matthew Thompson, Jeremy Hyde and Haydon Simmonds are all well-known in the East Midlands marketplace and known for expert advice which is clear and concise. They are also very commercially minded and provide an efficient service to clients such that costs are kept within budget.’

Key clients

Medigold Health Consultancy

Connells Limited

E-Bate Limited

Cinch Cars

BCA Automotive

Brewers Decorating Centres

Euro Food Brands

Foresight Capital

SPAR (UK)

BGF

FA Simms

The DX Group

Arne Clothing

Work highlights

  • Advised Medigold on a transformational acquisition of Health Management Limited for US based Maximus Group.
  • Advised Brewers Decorating Centres on its acquisition growth strategy.
  • Advised E-Bate Limited on a number of equity fundraisers from a number of investors, including Mercia.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: elsewhere in the East Midlands Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP manages a large caseload, consisting of multijurisdictional claims and high-value commercial disputes. Team head Geraint Davies has represented clients in the High Court and in mediation proceedings, while the experienced Satnam Chayra caters to a range of corporate issues, with shareholder, director, and partnership claims being particular areas of focus. Gary Pitt represents notable clients in the food and beverage industry, acting in complex litigation.

Practice head(s):

Geraint Davies

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘We have engaged with Howes Percival, (HP) on several occasions over a wide breadth of topics. On each occasion, HP has delivered an expert in each field. In addition to the lead solicitor HP continues to engage key members of their team to support our business. As such we have continued to grow our partnership and consider them part of our business.’

‘Gary Pitt was excellent in handling our commercial litigation dispute. Clear, strategic thinking and an excellent grasp of the process to guide us on this difficult matter.’

‘The majority of my dealings have been with Satnam Chayra who is, without doubt, a personable solicitor that inspires confidence in our dealings. Satnam can deliver what is some very convoluted language and complex situations, into an understandable and progressive position.’ 

‘Gary Pitt is a well-rounded lawyer, able to give realistic advice in complex cases.’

Key clients

Intertek Group

Grace Kennedy Group

Spar

Intertek

Grace Foods

Work highlights

  • Advising on a potential claim against a high street retailer in respect of multiple significant breaches of the Groceries Supply Code of Practice.
  • Advising a client in relation to proceedings in the London Court of Arbitration which involves parties from multiple jurisdictions.
  • Appealed a judicial review of a multi-million pound decision of HMRC.

Employment Tier 1

Noted for its broad regional footprint, Howes Percival LLP is geared to handle restructuring, senior executive exits, tribunal claims, and TUPE. Paula Bailey oversees the practice and is noted for her strength in large-scale redundancies, while in Northampton, Graham Irons is active across both the public and private sectors. Nick Benton is often engaged in internal workplace investigations, and in Northampton, Hannah Pryce enjoys a strong track record in employment tribunals. Sobia Ahmad often works in conjunction with the firm’s corporate and commercial team on disposals, M&A, and settlement agreements. All of the individuals that have been mentioned are located in Leicester unless stated otherwise.

Practice head(s):

Paula Bailey

Other key lawyers:

Graham Irons; Nick Benton; Hannah Pryce; Sobia Ahmad; Alex Payton; Georgina Burrows

Testimonials

‘The Howes Percival employment team is very responsive, and provides clear, practical advice and solutions for HR matters which arise.’

‘Everyone I liaise with at Howes Percival is professional, provides detailed advice, and is responsive – I always get replies to my emails quickly – and the firm collaborates with its clients between cases.’

‘The team demonstrates sound knowledge and are always equipped to deal with any ER issues whether it be a small or more complex issue. ’

‘The Howes Percival employment law team is entirely down to earth and pragmatic. They take a refreshingly balanced risk assessment of contentious matters. They have a common sense approach to non-contentious negotiation.’

‘They are great and easy to work with. No question is too daft! I have worked with them for many years and they are my ‘go-to’ legal professionals wherever my professional journey takes me. I would particularly like to shout out the following for their engagement and continued relationship with me and my colleagues: Paula Bailey, Hannah Pryce, and Hannah Ball.’

‘Paula Bailey is a trusted partner and sounding board for all our employment law needs. ’

‘Graham Irons stands out for his calm pragmatic approach to legal advice and risk. He is capably supported by Sobia Ahmed. The practice has excellent levels of client service and quick response times.’

‘We have regular dealings with Nick Benton who is very responsive, very commercial, thorough, and a real pleasure working with.’

Key clients

All3Media Group

Children’s Investment Fund Foundation

DX Group

First Circle Packaging Limited

Getronics Services UK Limited

GraceKennedy Limited

H.W. Coates (Holdings) Limited

Mark Jarvis Ltd

Mercedes Benz UK Limited

Marston’s PLC

RS Components Limited

Spar (UK) Limited

Terex Corporation

The Gym Limited

World Vision UK

Work highlights

  • Advised Curve Theatre on a high-profile religious belief case in the EAT.
  • Advised Countrywide Estate Agents on the acquisition of an Oxfordshire based lettings and estate agency business.
  • Advised Medigold Health on the acquisition of Health Management.

Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1

Home to dedicated insolvency litigators, Howes Percival LLP’s broad regional footprint spans Leicester, Manchester, Milton Keynes and Northampton. With over three decades of experience, Katie Summers co-leads the practice and is particularly focused on antecedent claims and bankruptcy cases. Deborah Nigh also co-leads the team and is well-versed in both corporate and personal contentious insolvency mandates. Sarah Lee often acts for insolvency practitioners, while Karyn Coburn’s recent caseload encompasses acting for claimants and respondents in misfeasance claims. Neena Jakhu is noted for her experience in the High Court, and Sundip Mapara is another key team member.

Practice head(s):

Katie Summers; Deborah Nigh

Testimonials

‘The team at Howes Percival are knowledgeable, fastidious, commercial and very reliable. In comparison to most other legal firms, the Howes Percival team are easy to reach and are skilled at prioritising work according to client needs. I have worked with them for over a decade in which time I have seen them deal with highly complex cases with relative ease. When you have instructed Howes Percival, rest assured you are in very safe hands.’

‘Howes Percival are very skilled in the law practice and procedure of insolvency litigation, and combine those skills with the ability to give clear legal advice at all times. The team are also very commercially aware and are proactive in achieving commercial settlement.’

‘Howes Percival has a great insolvency team backed up by the other departments which can used as and when required.’

‘Practical and thorough.’

‘Sarah Lee is responsive at all times, gives clear and constructive advice, and her attention to detail ensures outstanding results. She is excellent and is a joy to work with.’

‘Karyn Coburn is an excellent insolvency lawyer who is a pleasure to work with.’

‘I have worked with Katie Summers for over a decade. Her attention to detail and her ability to drown out the white noise and focus on the crux of the issue and her pragmatic advice sets her apart from the vast majority of people. She is very thorough and she has excellent EQ skills, encouraging a better outcome in mediations and in cases in general.’

‘I cannot think of anyone I trust more with my cases – Katie Summers is simply excellent! ’

Key clients

Begbies Traynor Group

Brand Retail Limited

Bridge Newland

Grant Thornton UK LLP

Griffins

Moore

Parker Getty

Secretary of State for Business and Trade and the Official Receiver

Work highlights

  • Assisted liquidators from Begbies Traynor Group in achieving the settlement of a complex and contentious liquidation.
  • Acted for liquidators from Grant Thornton in a recovery action involving 2 fractional-ownership hotels worth in excess of £15m.
  • Acting for the Secretary of State via the Insolvency Service on a contested public interest winding up against a company providing “unmeritorious” advice to mortgage debtors.

Real estate > Commercial property: elsewhere in the East Midlands Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP maintains a leading position in the East Midlands commercial property space. Lucy Lord‘s client base includes financial institutions and banks, which she assists with property finance work and portfolio transactions. Nicholas James regularly acts on land acquisitions, promotions, collaborations, and investments, while Stuart Burns has varied commercial property practice. Alexandra Kirkwood has noteworthy experience in estate setups, high-value acquisitions, and academy conversions, and Erica Gradus has particular expertise with landlord and tenant matters. Michelle Woolston and Jasmine Mason are also active within the team.

Practice head(s):

Lucy Lord; Nicholas James

Testimonials

‘Howes Percival is always our go-to practice for any property sale, purchase or lease. The company always provides exceptional service to our business in a truly professional manner. We have never needed to go to another practice for services as we’ve never been let down and we’re made to feel so important as a customer.’

‘Lucy Lord and Alexandra Kirkwood are completely dependable, thoroughly knowledgeable and very personable. They are my go-to for any property queries.’

‘Erica Gradus provides an exceptional service to our business.’ 

‘The team are excellent at being able to apply either a detailed and technical approach or an ultra pragmatic approach, and knowing when which one is more appropriate.’

‘Nick James and Stuart Burns get to the heart of the matter and understand how the client works so they can deliver what is needed.’

‘Howes Percival deliver a remarkable standard of service. Their knowledge and understanding are beyond impressive and have successfully navigated some of the most tricky and legally complex situations.’ 

‘Jasmine Mason is a very diligent and impressive adviser. Her knowledge and ability to understand the clients’ needs are beyond excellent. She is a formidable operator and highly respected in the industry.’

‘Lucy Lord is highly experienced, very efficient and very available to deal with matters as they arise.’

Key clients

Shareholders of Raynsway

Persimmon Homes

C. Brewer & Sons

Mulberry Property Developments

Mulberry Strategic Land

Motorvogue (Northampton)

McGowan Investments

Nene Group

Davidsons Developments

In ‘n’ Out Centres

Work highlights

  • Advised C Brewers & Sons on the £20m acquisition of the entire shareholding of The Paint Shed Holdings.
  • Advised Mulberry Property Developments on the £11m sale of 49 affordable housing plots on a large residential scheme.
  • Advised Mulberry Property Developments Limited on the phased sale of 10 affordable housing plots on a large residential scheme.

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 1

Howes Percival LLP’s solid client base includes large companies, investment funds, institutional landlords, and developers. The team is noted for its breadth of expertise and management of property portfolios for both landlords and tenants. Geraint Davies has amassed considerable experience in high-value property disputes covering a wide range of real estate issues, and Satnam Chayra is well respected for her property litigation prowess, predominantly assisting with landlord and tenant cases. Leanne Davis is a landlord and tenant specialist whose purview includes high-value dilapidations, renewals, forfeitures and covenant claims.

Practice head(s):

Geraint Davies

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Their attention to detail and complete understanding of the issue at hand.’

‘I often refer clients to Howes Percival – their technical prowess is always evident, navigating complex legal terrain with finesse and precision. What always sets them apart is their strategic approach, crafting ingenious solutions tailored to my specific needs while anticipating potential challenges.’

‘Hugely experienced, very capable and professional.’

Key clients

C Brewer & Sons

Spar

De Montfort University

Hughes Electrical

Green King

Davidsons Homes

Work highlights

  • Advising a trust and various family members with an ownership dispute over valuable land.
  • Advising a client on rights to seek partition of jointly owned land and thereafter issuing a claim.
  • Advising on unlawful forfeiture of lease of valuable commercial premises.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 1

Geared to handle collaboration agreements, IP litigation, and trademark portfolio work, Howes Percival LLP enjoys a strong reputation in the fashion, food and drink, as well as software sectors. Matthew Talbot leads the practice and splits his time between Leicester and Northampton. Talbot is an experienced IP litigator and often handles copyright, design rights, patents, and trade mark disputes. Leicester-based Hannah Steggles is knowledgeable of IP licenses and IT outsourcing agreements, she is also experienced before the UK Intellectual Property Office. In Northampton, Jenna Bruce is skilled in IP licensing, maintenance agreements, and software developments, while Stephen Ruse’s caseload encompasses infringement matters.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Talbot

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Hannah Steggles is one of the best partners I have had the pleasure of working with in my career. I have been consistently impressed with how she handles cases. She and the HP team are my go-to referral for clients requiring solicitors. Hannah has excellent legal knowledge and provides excellent strategic advice.’

‘Stephen Ruse is an excellent associate who is calm and focused in his approach.’

‘Matt Talbot is knowledgeable and strategic, Hannah Steggles is enthusiastic and creative, and Stephen Ruse is an up-and-coming associate with good knowledge and sound judgment.’

‘Matthew Talbot has been the very approachable driving force in our experience at HP. He is a delight to know and always helps, even if an area is not his expertise, he brings someone forward who is.’

‘The HP team are friendly, diligent, and have a large “toolkit” at their dispense in their people and expertise. Matthew Talbot’s enthusiasm right from the start really helped us grow in confidence.’

‘The team are consistently excellent. They combine being personable and practicable with excellent technical legal knowledge. The team use technology effectively, for example to compare various documents.’

‘They have a strong team with a number of experienced IP litigators.’

Key clients

Business Software Alliance, Inc. (“BSA”)

Start-rite Shoes Limited

FibreFab Limited

Prokon Software Limited

Robovision Limited

Craft Buddy Limited

Imperial International Ltd

The National Forest Company

Autodesk Ltd

Internetwork Media Ltd

Samworth Brothers Ltd

Viridian International Limited

Gibbs Croft Limited t/a Soreen

Synergy Devices Limited

Starkers Group (including Brand X, Tutti Rouge and JoJoe)

The Breeze Drinks Company

South East Dons Football Club

Sowvital Ltd

Morningside Pharmaceutical Ltd

Red Helix Limited

Oystashell Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Business Software Alliance Inc on behalf of the BSA, whose members include Autodesk, Siemens, PTC, Prokon, Exocad, Maxon and Graphisoft on infringement actions.
  • Advising Prokon Software Limited on its IP strategy in the UK and Europe, including obtaining trade mark protection and protection measures.

Employment > Employment: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP has particular expertise in dealing with complex tribunal claims, redundancies and restructuring, TUPE issues, enforcement of restrictive covenants and senior executive exits. Experienced tribunal advocate and head of practice Simon deMaid  routinely handles employment tribunal claims, largescale redundancies and restructures and complex executive employment terminations. Hannah Pryce is another important point of contact within the group.

Practice head(s):

Simon deMaid

Other key lawyers:

Hannah Pryce; Anna Bithrey

Testimonials

‘The team are great and really do pull together as a team in order to give a smooth and seamless service. The appropriate fee earner is always allocated to the work, which I appreciate. Advice is given in a no-nonsense way, clearly and effectively.’

‘Professional, friendly and responsive.’

‘Simon deMmaid has looked after our business for several years. Always helpful, reassuring and finds the best direction to handle all situations.’

‘I work predominantly with the Employment team. I have always found team members to be accessible, approachable and friendly.’

‘The team is knowledgeable and works hard to stay up to date and share any changes to employment legislation. No matter how busy the lawyers are, they never let this show and remain consistently calm and supportive. I am impressed with their professionalism while also ensuring that they are human (and not robots).’

‘Howes Percival as a practice are all about delivering for the client & working collaboratively with partners. I’ve worked with this firm (as well as other legal practices) for the best part of 20 years now. HP stand out compared to other firms because they focus everything on being a loyal and ethical partner – longer terms relationships. Flexibility is something that is key and 2 way approach; something that HP genuinely get! The Quality of service & advice is nothing other than excellent & it doesn’t feel like you are on an obvious time clock – very collaborative & a firm who gives back in the form of free employment updates. I have some much confidence in HP as a firm that I have referred my clients on to them knowing they will be supported well. ’

Key clients

AFL Hyperscale

Alphacure Limited

Avon Cosmetics

Barton Petroleum Limited

Clare James Automotive Limited

Dachser Limited

LSH Auto UK

Milton Keynes College

P J Care Limited

Radius Group Limited

Steven Eagell Limited

Stonbury Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted for a consortium of retail automotive sector clients in the high profile acquisition of 19 individual Toyota and Lexus dealerships from Marshalls Motor Group.
  • Defended an Employment Tribunal claim for unfair dismissal brought against a retail sector client following a large scale restructure of one of its divisions in the UK.
  • Acted for a specialist UV lamp manufacturer on an intra-group transfer to outsource its UK manufacturing operations to China, along with the streamlining of their existing UK operations.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property Tier 2

Offering a ‘very personal service’, the practice at Howes Percival LLP was recently bolstered by its acquisition of Oxford-based specialist commercial, IP and media law firm, Maier Blackburn. The firm has in-depth experience of the creative industries and merchandising issues, as well as the technology and manufacturing sectors. Described as ‘engaging, efficient and thorough‘, Cathleen Blackburn is known for her expertise in cross-border copyright issues in the academic publishing space, while Steven Maier has expertise in IP disputes; both are based in Oxford. Practice head James Howarth, based across Milton Keynes and Oxford, is another experienced litigator with a background in the publishing and high-tech manufacturing spaces.

Practice head(s):

James Howarth

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘We receive a very personal service from the firm and always get the feeling that those we work with really understand our organisation and our needs.’

‘We work closely with Cathleen Blackburn. She is always very engaging, efficient and thorough with her guidance and we trust her entirely.’

Key clients

The Tolkien estate

Agatha Christie limited

Magda Archer

Cochrane Collaboration

European association of Archaeologists

M C Beaton literary estate

Tabbers limited

Welbeck publishing group

Owen Mumford limited

Golf holidays direct limited

DX group

Juxt limited

AFL hyperscale

Security alliance limited

XPS pensions

Bartington instruments

Sounds like publishing

Rolls Royce enthusiasts club

Massive music

Raw energy

Ocean on land

Work highlights

  • Advising the Tolkien Estate in connection with the repeated infringement of its intellectual property rights in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Cambridge Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP's Cambridge office plays an increasingly important role in its firm-wide corporate, commercial and banking practice, led by James Stephen, who has hired at junior level to expand the local team. Associate Josie Rogers joined from Attwaters Jameson Hill Solicitors and legal director Ollie Flowers from BDB Pitmans. Clients appreciate their 'top-class advice and support', and note that Stephen has 'a very pragmatic approach to getting deals done'. The firm is a key adviser to private equity investors and has a strong presence in mid-market deals locally and beyond East Anglia.

Practice head(s):

James Stephen

Other key lawyers:

Ollie Flowers; Josie Rogers; Tom Maksymiw

Testimonials

‘I have recently worked with James Stephen directly on a challenging deal. His methodology and attention to detail was invaluable given the sheer volume of documents to be reviewed in a very short space of time.’

‘Top-class advice and support.’

‘Prompt response to all queries. Dedicated professionals with an eye for detail and ability to cut decipher the important legal technicalities.’

‘High-calibre team of professionals within the corporate team. They are one of the biggest teams in the Cambridge area and have a full-service offering.’

‘James Stephen has hit the market running since joining Howes Percival. He has excellent knowledge and brings a very pragmatic approach to getting deals done. Tom Maksymiw proved himself to be very capable efficient and knowledgeable.’

‘James Stephen. Experienced and confident advice. Work is accurate and well thought through with all facets of the deal covered. James is a calm and steady pair of hands on to have on any deal team.’

‘Absolutely excellent legal practice. Extremely impressed with their time and care and effort. They took a lot of time to understand our particular needs and deliver a highly personalised service. Professional at all times. Went above and beyond to help us achieve e successful outcome.’

‘James Stephen is simply superb. Professional, thoughtful, considerate, caring. Incredibly hard working. Went out of his way to help us at a tough and stressful time. I will forever be grateful to him.’

Key clients

The shareholders of Envirokey Limited

Connells Limited

Objective Imaging Limited

The shareholders of Vet CT Specialists Limited

Fleet Assist

Work highlights

  • Advised the shareholders of Envirokey Limited on the sale of the entire issued share capital of that company to Reconomy.
  • Advised a Cambridge company on a licence of significant IP to an overseas entity.
  • Advised the shareholders of a Cambridge company in relation to a new equity investment.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Norwich Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP has 'a team that pulls together and will work hard on your behalf'. The firm handles high-value M&A transactions, as well as commercial matters, across East Anglia and further afield. The firm-wide corporate, commercial and banking practice is led from Cambridge by James Stephen but the 'calm and practical' Oliver Pritchard in Norwich leads the East Anglia corporate group. 'Calm, patient, very knowledgeable and hardworking' legal director Richard Turner, and associates Lizzy Page and Helaina Mann also play central roles in the practice. Turner recently assisted shareholders of AFA Fostering Ltd on its sale to BSN Social Care.

Practice head(s):

James Stephen; Oliver Pritchard

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team is very approachable and develop excellent relationships with clients, which builds trust. Transactions are life-changing events for clients, but the Howes Percival team approach clients with empathy, patience, building trust and guiding them expertly. In particular, Oliver Pritchard embodies these qualities. He has years of experience but takes clients through a deal like guiding a precious cargo. Never arrogant or impatient, just calm and practical. I would choose to have him by my side on any deal.’

‘The team provides clear and practical commercial advice. They have wide experience of all commercial transactions and advice is provided on a prompt and timely basis.’

‘Lizzy Page deals with us on a day to day basis progressing all legal documents etc required. Prompt and efficient in responding to all questions.’

‘The Howes Percival corporate team is highly experienced and skilled at what they do. I am always pleased to be working with them on corporate finance deals and have complete confidence that our mutual clients will receive a first-class service.’

‘I have worked on numerous corporate finance deals with Oliver Pritchard and Richard Turner over the years and they have always gone above and beyond to help our mutual clients get their deals over the line. They are highly experienced and always very measured and commercial with their advice. They also maintain momentum in contract negotiations, a crucial factor in the success of any deal. I look forward to working with them again in the future and have absolutely no hesitation in recommending their services to others.’

‘Fantastic is simply the only word to describe the team. A privilege to work with and honestly HP are very fortunate to have them representing the business.’

‘So personable and really engaged with me as an individual not solely on the task at hand which I really took to heart and would be the main reason I would always recommend the team and there services to anyone looking for support on any form of corporate transaction.’

‘London quality at regional prices.’

Key clients

Hughes Electrical Limited / Washco Limited

British Marine

Ben Burgess Holdings Limited

Anchor Hanover Group

Desira plc

Key Conveyancing LLP

HSBC

Barclays

Artisan Care Group

RQ Capital Limited

Millnet Limited

Cadman Capital

Netmatters

Roche Partnership

Pruce Newman Group

Falcon Cranes

Stuart Group Ltd / Stuart Plant Ltd

Glazing Vision Group Limited / Glazing Vision Limited

Accentuate Group Ltd / Global Chair

Work highlights

  • Advised the management team of The Hesley Group on the secondary management buyout by Blandford Capital from Antin Infrastructure Partners.
  • Advised the shareholders of GPH on the sale to the Speedy Hire plc group. This was an important transaction within the construction sector as firms seek to find clean energy solutions.
  • Sole legal advisers to the 2023 editions of Southampton International Boat Show and London Luxury Afloat, two of the UK’s most prominent on-water boat shows.

Crime, fraud and licensing > Licensing Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP's planning team advises a diverse range of clients on licensing matters. It acts for London-based residents’ groups, registered charities, owner-managed bars and restaurants, and others on applications for new premises licences or variations to existing premises licences. The work of partner Jamie Childs in Norwich also includes advocacy work at licensing authority sub-committee meetings where objections have been made to premises licence applications. He also assists the firm’s corporate and real estate teams with matters involving the sale or acquisition of licensed premises.

Practice head(s):

Jamie Childs

Work highlights

  • Continued to advise clients on a range of licensing matters, including supporting the firm’s property team by advising on a number of premises licence transfers, variation of designated premises supervisors and advice in connection with securing personal licences.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Cambridge Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP  has an ‘expert, approachable and commercial‘ dispute resolution group, which has a strong presence in its Cambridge office. The ‘tenacious, detailed and very competentMichael Green leads the team, which is able to advise on high-value, urgent, complex and high-profile matters both within the UK and overseas. The firm is currently involved in disputes with parties in the Middle East, North Africa, Taiwan and Slovakia. Director Victoria Sandell is frequently involved in multimillion-pound disputes and is ‘a fantastic lawyer, leader and litigator‘. She is currently working with Green on a multi-jurisdiction shareholder dispute with a Saudi minority shareholder.

Practice head(s):

Michael Green

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Howes Percival LLP are really well placed within their market sector.’

‘Michael Green is a vastly experienced lawyer. Tenacious, detailed and very competent. Victoria Sandell is a very fine lawyer and has a great future.’

‘My dealings with this firm are as a mediator where they represent one of the parties at the mediation. They are part of a national firm and I deal mainly with their insolvency team. Very expert, approachable and commercial.’

‘Michael Green- a leading insolvency lawyer. Knows his stuff but is able to deal with a wide range of insolvency practitioner clients and defendants.’

‘The team at Howes Percival has a can do attitude, approachable, proactive and great emotional intelligence.’

‘Victoria Sandell in particular stands out as a fantastic lawyer, leader and litigator. Knowledgeable, a problem solver and passionate about what she does.’

Key clients

Ben’s Cookies

C. Hoare & Co

Wonop ApS

Saxton 4×4

Work highlights

  • Acting for and settling at mediation a shareholder dispute with Saudi minority shareholders for a multinational high street retailer.
  • Acting for exiting partners in £78m Agri dispute.
  • Successfully representing Wonop ApS, a Danish corporate software developer at trial in Commercial Court claim re: crypto currency case against Fetch.ai Limited, obtaining order for c.USD$1m plus costs.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Norwich Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP‘s Norwich office litigation group is led by Gordon Simpson, who ‘tackles every issue in a very considered and professional manner‘. He has developed a specialism in shareholder disputes, acting for a number of directors and shareholders in unfair prejudice proceedings, though he also has notable expertise in high-value disputes in the energy sector. Associate Sam Leaver, who joined from Spire Solicitors LLP in late 2023, assists with shareholder and contractual disputes, and associated damages claims.

Practice head(s):

Gordon Simpson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘From my experience of dealing with Howes Percival commercial litigation team the main quality that makes this practice unique are the people. Gordon Simpson heads this department and he has helped me tremedously with a litigation case that I was dealing with for 5 years.’

‘Gordon Simpson has always tackled every issue in a very considered and professional manner, even when there were incredibly stressful situations.’

‘Knowledgeable, efficient and personable.’

‘We work with Gordon Simpson, who is clearly very knowledgeable and authoritative – feel very fortunate to have him on our side. Gordon gives you confidence and is straight talking, which is what you need. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him.’

Work highlights

Employment Tier 2

The employment practice at Howes Percival LLP is known for ‘client-focused pragmatism, backed up by deep knowledge and experience‘. The practice operates across the firm’s extensive office network to service clients across the UK, and the offices in East Anglia play a pivotal role in that work. Key partner Matthew Potter in Cambridge ‘takes time to listen and then advises very pragmatic solutions‘. Clients also praise Norwich-based legal director Laura Brown  for her ‘commercial awareness, coupled with a human-centric focus‘. They frequently handle domestic and cross-border matters in sectors such as leisure, technology, education, energy, motor, manufacturing and food.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Potter

Other key lawyers:

Laura Brown; Jonathan Mumby

Testimonials

‘Matthew Potter is a superb solicitor. His knowledge of employment legislation is extremely sound, he takes time to listen and then advises very pragmatic solutions.’

‘Our experience with the Howes Percival employment team has been incredibly positive. One of the firm’s standout features is their commercially focused advice. They have an exceptional ability to balance legal advice with commercial decisions, understanding the real-world impact of their guidance. Their advice is not just legally sound it’s tailored to be practically implementable in a business context. They always show us a deep understanding of the challenges and decisions businesses face daily.’

‘What makes Howes Percival unique is their team’s approachability and warmth. It’s easy to engage with them, knowing you’ll be met with friendly and supportive advice. This welcoming culture extends beyond the immediate points of contact to include their entire team—from interns, receptionists to legal professionals across various departments. Their approachability makes dealing with legal challenges less daunting and creates a genuine sense of support and collaboration.’

‘Compared to other firms, Howes Percival’s blend of legal and commercial acumen, coupled with their genuinely friendly team, truly sets them apart. It’s not just the quality of their legal advice that impresses us but the holistic way in which they deliver it, always with a keen eye on practicality and client relationships.’

‘What I particularly value in Laura Brown is her judgment-free advice and feedback. Her leadership has cultivated a team of like-minded professionals who mirror her approach, ensuring that every interaction with her team reflects the same level of understanding, empathy, and experience. Laura’s dedication extends beyond the immediate needs of our business. She makes a an effort to maintain regular contact, demonstrating a genuine interest in the ongoing success and well-being of our business and team. Her willingness to understand our business in-depth and to become acquainted with our team personally has significantly enhanced the support she provides.’

‘Laura Brown’s commercial awareness, coupled with a human-centric focus, ensures that the guidance we receive is not only legally sound but also tailored to our business context. Laura’s readiness to support our wider projects and offer advice beyond the conventional scope of legal services further illustrates her holistic and adaptable approach to client service.’

‘The excellent and pragmatic employment law advice received over many years now from Howes Percival. Very collaborative and professional approach in supporting clients.’

‘Both Matthew Potter and Jonathan Mumby provide friendly and helpful advice and manage to interpret client requirements and work with clients to support clients desired outcomes utilising the wealth of their experience in doing so.’

Key clients

Ben Burgess Limited

Work highlights

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP  has 'a very strong team with strong breadth of knowledge'. Norwich-based head of banking Joanna Nicholls specialises in real estate finance, having developed strong relationships with numerous large commercial banks and private funders. She has an established track record in financing investments in the leisure and tourism sector. The 'quite exceptionalTessa Haskey, who leads the real estate group from Norwich, 'always finds a way to get any deal over the line with her pragmatic approach'. Cambridge-based Michaela Henson advised Mortar Investment Group on the financing of a £5m portfolio of buy-to-let properties.

Practice head(s):

Joanna Nicholls

Other key lawyers:

Tessa Haskey; Elizabeth Thomas; Michaela Henson

Testimonials

‘A very strong team excellently led by Tessa Haskey. Strong breadth of knowledge with specialism in trust work which has been very helpful this year. The practice’s key strength remains being always accessible and having a strong reputation locally.’

‘I have to call out Tessa Haskey who is quite exceptional. A real solutioniser and always finds a way to get any deal over the line with her pragmatic approach whilst retaining the bank’s best interests to heart. Always available and approachable which is a real skill in itself. A clear leader and Howes Percival’s flagship commercial property lawyer.’

‘Quality firm in East Anglia. We have used the Cambridge Office for banking work and have clients who use them for lease work generally.’

‘We have dealt with Elizabeth Thomas on a couple of matters and have used her to cover off some legal questions when looking to formulate a deal with clients. She is prompt and provides a good level of overview and is very happy to provide quotations for work and is keen to work with the bank in the medium term.’

Key clients

RQ Capital Limited

HSBC UK Bank plc

Lloyds Bank plc

Barclays Bank plc

Santander UK Plc

Handelsbanken Plc

National Westminster Bank plc

Bank of Scotland plc

The Property Investor Partnership Limited

Cambridge and Counties Bank plc

HSBC Asset Finance (UK) Ltd

Coutts and Company

Work highlights

Private client > Agriculture and estates Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP has an agriculture and estates practice that has impressive expertise in farm and estate sales, rural property funding transactions, renewable energy projects, tenancies, partnerships and reorganisations, and complex tax and trust matters. The Norwich office is a key hub for the firm-wide group and is home to practice head Katharine Danks, who is a Fellow of the Agricultural Law Association. Stuart Maggs is 'very practical and extremely knowledgeable' in trusts and estate planning matters. 'The team takes a balance view and we totally trust their judgement', remarks one client.

Practice head(s):

Katharine Danks

Other key lawyers:

Stuart Maggs; Abigail Lambert

Testimonials

‘The team is supportive, professional and responsive.’

‘Katherine Danks is a great help to the family and the farming business. We depend on her and find her reliable and commercial.’

‘HP has a wealth of in depth knowledge and understanding of all things estate planning. They have worked really well with our accountant to give the best advice for our family and have been brilliant working through succession in our business. Not scared to pull in colleagues to put the best person in front of you.’

‘Stuart Maggs is very practical and extremely knowledgeable when dealing with our trust and estate planning. Katherine Danks is our main point of contact and is always contactable, even at the weekends which is fantastic because farming businesses never sit still.’

‘So approachable, knowledgeable and totally professional. The team takes a balanced view and we totally trust their judgement. We were in uncharted waters and felt supported by Abigail Lambert and Katherine Danks.’

‘We chose to deal with Howes Percival as they came highly recommended and we have found them to be very professional and helpful.’

‘Katharine Danks has been assisting us with a solar farm project and her expert knowledge and guidance through this process has been very professional and friendly. She has brought to our attention matters we would have otherwise overlooked.’

‘Stuart Maggs has been most significant from the start of our project. Stuart has worked exceptionally well with our professional team and family members. Always quick to grasp a problem and clearly explain possible solutions, Stuart is pragmatic and experienced in dealing with the complexities and respectful on the emotional side of a family estate. The property team lead by Katharine Danks have been resolute in unravelling historic ownership complexities and kept us fully informed on progress.’

Key clients

The Cholmondeley Estate

Work highlights

Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP's contentious trusts and probate practice is led from Cambridge by vastly experienced litigation partner Michael Green, who is a full member of ACTAPS and is appointed as High Court Administrator on twelve contested estates. He is supported by legal director Victoria Sandell, whose litigation work includes disputes concerning multimillion-pound estates. Clients remark that 'the team is cooperative, hardworking and focused on the client's needs'.

Practice head(s):

Michael Green

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They have a great deal of experience in all aspects of contentious trusts and probate.’

‘Michael Green – he has a very thorough knowledge of all aspects of trusts and estates. On the contentious side he also has a keen strategic sense which enables him to outmanoeuvre the other side to get the best results for his client. ’

‘Michael Green is outstanding – he sits as a part time judge which gives him a wealth of experience in litigating complex disputes. His in-depth technical knowledge is paired with a calm and empathetic approach ’

‘The Team at Howes Percival are friendly and collaborative. They recognise that it is always in their client’s best interests to have a sensible relationship with their opponents and they don’t seek to take points that are unnecessary and only serve to drive up costs and entrench parties.’

‘The team is very collaborative and excellent communicators. The approach is team-based and you get the sense that they are supportive, joined up and delegating work to the appropriate place within that team.’

Work highlights

  • Acting as independent administrator in highly acrimonious estate, where there are 10 beneficiaries, including 8 minors represented by a litigation friend; and a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act. The estate involved a working farm, applications between the parties under the Family Law Act 1996 and issues involving Social Care Services.
  • Acting for London banker advising as a residuary beneficiary in multi-million pound estate involving a challenge to the will and claims regarding financial management by former attorney.
  • Acting for individual to challenge Will of deceased uncle on the grounds that he lacked testamentary capacity to make the Will in circumstances where mental health issues have been raised the testator having been sectioned under the Mental Health Act.

Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate: Cambridge Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP‘s private client practice is led from Norwich by Tom Lawrence but the firm is steadily building its presence in Cambridge through 'efficient, thorough' STEP member Stephen Patch, who not only handles high-value and complex matters for high-net-worth clients, but also acts frequently as an executor and trustee. Clients note that he 'strikes a good balance between professionalism and friendliness', and they praise the practice's ability to respond quickly to all enquiries.

Practice head(s):

Tom Lawrence

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Breadth of knowledge and patient with clients.’

‘I have received a professional service with clear communication at all times and with good timing.’

‘I have been working with Stephen Patch in a probate matter following the failure of another legal firm to get matters done. Stephen has been efficient, thorough and communicated well throughout. A high level of customer service has been delivered. ’

‘As a fairly new team to their Cambridge office, I feel that their advantage is they can be nimble and move in which ever direction suits them.’

‘Stephen Patch has stood out to me for his personal approach, dealing with sensitive situations with care and compassion. He has displayed in-depth knowledge, as well as leaning on other resources at HP.’

‘The most impressive aspect of dealing with Howes Percival is their speed of response. It is important when referring clients that the service they receive is good, and in my experience this has been the case with speed of response being exceptional.’

‘My main interaction has been with Stephen Patch. He is very approachable and responds quickly. Most importantly he interacts well with clients in meetings, striking a good balance between professionalism and friendliness, which is not always the case with private client solicitors. Also Stephen has the ability to explain matters in a way that is not too complex for clients to understand’

Work highlights

Public sector Tier 2

The education, health, social housing and government group at Howes Percival LLP is 'a very responsive and engaging practice of thorough professionals'. It is led by land development specialist Michaela Henson in Cambridge and insolvency expert Morris Peacock in Norwich, who oversee a multi-disciplinary team that advises on property, finance, insolvency, corporate, litigation and employment matters. Norwich-based corporate partner Oliver Pritchard plays a major role in the practice, particularly in regard to mergers and governance matters for NHS clients. Peacock, who is 'superlative in all he does', assisted the Insolvency Service with an investigation into the collapse of care home company Ecohouse Developments Limited, and the failure of BHS Limited. Property partner Nicola Curle moved to Birketts.

Practice head(s):

Michaela Henson; Morris Peacock

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team at Howes Percival are professional, delivering what they say they will on time.’

‘Howes Percival is a very responsive and engaging practice of thorough professionals.’

‘Morris Peacock is superlative in all he does, whether dealing with the firms’ outreach commitments or the charities he represents in his work. He is on the ball at all times and never lets you down.’

Key clients

Anchor Care Homes Limited

Anchor Hanover Group

Braintree District Council

Breckland Alliance / Breckland Surgeries Limited

Cambridge University Endowment Fund

Enterprise Retirement Living

E-Surgery / Total Access Health

Girton College, Cambridge

Norfolk & Norwich Association for the Blind

Norse Care Limited

Norwich University of the Arts

South Holland District Council

South Norfolk Healthcare C.I.C

Suffolk County Council

University of Cambridge

East and Central Brighton Primary Care Network (PCN)

BHR Pharmaceuticals

West Norfolk Housing Company

Borough Council of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk

This Land Developments Limited

Work highlights

  • Acting for the Secretary of State in relation to the BHS collapse and pursuit of errant directors, actions for misfeasance and disqualification proceedings.
  • Acting for various registered providers and developers on S106 affordable housing acquisitions and disposals, with a variety of contract structures such as land at day one, golden brick and off-the-shelf.

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 2

Lauded as a ‘go-to within the East Midlands market’, the Leicester-based practice Howes Percival LLP is knowledgeable of a broad range of corporate finance matters. Practice head Haydon Simmonds is praised as ‘extremely commercial and knowledgeable’ and is experienced in advising lenders and borrowers on leveraged and acquisition financings. Katherine Cereghino is well-versed in real estate finance transactions in the healthcare sector, while Faye Meredith handles cross-border banking transactions.

Practice head(s):

Haydon Simmonds

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Howes Percival are extremely well-regarded and their banking team is a go-to within the East Midlands market.’

‘The Howes Percival banking team have a strong profile locally and work on a good volume of local banking deals.’

‘Howes Percival have a diverse offering of services covering all client needs, they have made great strides compared to other competitors in the market to be a client-centric firm. They are specialists in their given fields and have deep knowledge of various sectors.’

‘Katherine Cereghino is a great asset to Howes Percival. We have worked with a number of law firms and Katherine’s ability to handle any situation in a calm and methodical manner sets her apart from many of her peers.’

‘Katherine Cereghino is very approachable, understanding, and is always available for a conversation.’

‘Haydon Simmons is a very competent and approachable lawyer, his communication and knowledge of the banking process we worked on recently was excellent.’

‘Haydon Simmons is personable as well as extremely commercial and knowledgeable when it comes to banking and finance.’

‘Haydon Simmonds and Faye Meredith are very experienced and knowledgeable. They are calm and unflustered.’

Key clients

HSBC UK Bank plc

National Westminster Bank plc

Santander UK Plc

Handelsbanken Plc

RQ Capital Limited

Barclays Bank plc

Lloyds Bank plc

Bank of Scotland plc

Cambridge and Counties Bank plc

The Property Investor Partnership Limited

ThinCats

OakNorth

Work highlights

  • Advised on a multimillion-pound working capital package for one of the leading national house builders based in the East Midlands.
  • Advised on a multimillion-pound funding package supporting the EOT of a National automotive retailer.
  • Advised on a multimillion funding package for a private equity backed healthcare business based in the East Midlands to support acquisitions.

Private client > Family Tier 2

Howes Percival LLP primarily advises on financial disputes and issues which arise out of divorce or separation, including Schedule 1 proceedings, TOLATA claims and negotiating deeds of separation. Leicester-based Justine Flack is known for advising HNWIs on complex financial arrangements, frequently involving businesses, agricultural assets and inherited wealth. Alishia Marrocco is another key contact within the practice group.

Practice head(s):

Justine Flack

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team are hardworking, cohesive with a great wealth of knowledge.’

‘Alishia Marrocco is a brilliant lawyer with a fantastic bedside manner. A real star.’

‘The team has brilliant client care skills – the people I have worked with at the firm are genuinely lovely people who really care about their clients.’

‘Alishia Marrocco is empathetic, thorough, and technically very good.’

‘My experience of the firm has been entirely positive. Clients clearly get sound advice at an early stage and real thought goes into the strategy and presentation that can make or break a claim. My impression of the firm as a whole is that it is extremely user-friendly whilst maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.’

‘In Leicester, the person I have dealt with most frequently is Justine Flack who I think is excellent. She really knows her stuff and advises clients with great empathy and skill. I have also dealt with Alishia Marrocco in Northampton. She too is a first-rate lawyer who has good judgment and is not afraid to stick to her guns in the face of difficult opposing lawyers.’

‘Howes Percival is brilliant with private children cases.’

‘Many of the firm’s family clients come via their preexisting connections with the firm’s business or private client teams, and as a result, the firm has the ability to develop a very holistic view of the client’s needs.’

Work highlights

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 2

Recently handling domain name, infringement, and software disputes, Howes Percival LLP is skilled at software development and outsourcing agreements. Splitting his time between Leicester and Northampton, Matthew Talbot is experienced before the European Court of Justice and the UK and European Patent Offices. In Leicester, Hannah Steggles is noted for her strength in drafting software development and license agreements, while Paula Dumbill is a commercial contract specialist. In Northampton, Jenna Bruce assists on the enforcement of rights in software and Chris White is knowledgeable of data protection and hardware procurement. Miles Barnes is often engaged in framework agreements, and Stephen Ruse is informed in software infringements.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Talbot; Hannah Steggles; Paula Dumbill

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The entire team is excellent. I have worked with a range of individuals over a number of years on a number of different cases and have always been impressed. They are knowledgeable in their field and provide excellent service to their clients.’

‘Very good knowledge.’

‘Hannah Steggles and Stephen Ruse are both excellent. They both combine excellent legal knowledge with a personable, client-focused approach.’

‘Matthew Talbot is clever, incisive, and excellent at working out clientss real commercial objectives and putting that within a litigation framework.’

‘Paula Dumbill provides a down-to-earth commercial approach to general contractual negotiation. She works to client timescales and is always communicative. This is very much appreciated.’

Key clients

Business Software Alliance (BSA)

Getronics UK Limited

FibreFab Limited

DeMontfort University

Autodesk Inc.

Internetwork Media Limited

E-Bate Limited

Business Software Alliance (BSA)

Work highlights

  • Advised Red Helix Limited on the negotiation of key contracts with leading software suppliers in the US.

Public sector Tier 3

Howes Percival LLP houses a broad practice with strong capabilities spanning corporate, property, commercial and data protection law matters. The team's workload routinely consists of mandates involving acquisitions and reorganisations in the healthcare sector. Practice head Simon deMaid is an experienced employment tribunal advocate who frequently acts for healthcare and education sector clients, with a distinctive specialism in disability discrimination claims and executive terminations.

Practice head(s):

Simon DeMaid

Other key lawyers:

Graham Irons

Key clients

Anchor Care Homes Limited

Anchor Hanover Group

Braintree District Council

Breckland Alliance

Breckland Surgeries Limited

Cambridge University Endowment Fund

Enterprise Retirement Living

E-Surgery

Total Access Health

Girton College, Cambridge

Norfolk & Norwich Association for the Blind

Norse Care Limited

Norwich University of the Arts

South Holland District Council

South Norfolk Healthcare C.I.C

Suffolk County Council

University of Cambridge

East and Central Brighton Primary Care Network

BHR Pharmaceuticals

West Norfolk Housing Company

Borough Council of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk

This Land Developments Limited

Real estate > Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 3

Howes Percival LLP’s Milton Keynes-based commercial property team has a strong regional presence, with recent transactions including corporate acquisitions, disposals and portfolio expansions. Marcus Carter leads the team and has extensive experience of acting for corporate occupiers of commercial property and dealing with investment acquisitions and disposals. Charlotte Harrison acts for national and regional house builders on project development matters, as well as managing property portfolios and on social housing transactions.

Practice head(s):

Marcus Carter

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Marcus Carter at Howes Percival was able to complete property transactions at an especially fast pace for us.’

‘Highly responsive, great with short deadlines.’

‘I found the team were particularly able to discuss all matters with me in non-legal jargon, really taking the effort to make sure the message was delivered and received in the right way. Their knowledge was extremely good as you’d expect, but it was their commercial awareness, their ability to get alongside non-legal people, and their proactive efficient approach that really shone through for me. They also worked extremely well as a team, no contradiction, no duplication, no confusion. Just a very slick and organised way of working.’

‘They work as a close knit team, at all points communicating internally providing cover for one another whenever they are out or on holiday. I have never worked with a firm that regardless of time of year etc that manages to still cover one another’s work load like this team manages. ’

‘Marcus Carter heads the team and has instilled his own values in them. He is a strong leader, with a can do proactive approach always striving for excellence in communication both internally and external. He has managed to create the strongest commercial property team in the region in terms of approach, speed and commercialism.’

‘Very responsive and commercial.’

‘Marcus Carter is a fantastic real estate partner. He is fun to work with and very commercially astute. He takes time to work out what you need and then just gets on and does it. He will think of you when you don’t have a matter with him and get in touch if something might be of interest.’

‘The Howes Percival Team are excellent at providing a high standard of service in a timely manner. They are very quick to address potential issues and advise on solutions. I always feel I can pick up the phone and have a discussion over any particularly complex matters which the team are always able to explain in simple terms.’

Key clients

Steven Eagell Limited

Steven Eagell Properties Limited

Getir UK Limited

Formula One Autocentres Limited

Pattishall Properties Limited

Medigold Health Consultancy Limited

Nene Group Plc

Group 1 Automotive Limited

Hodgson Automotive Limited

Chandlers Garage Holdings Limited

Spire Automotive Limited

Engineered Reinforcing Steel Industries Limited

Haryl (1991) Limited

Office Space In Town Limited

Glyn Hopkin Limited

British Car Auctions Limited

Clifton Trade Bathrooms Limited

FRF (South Wales) Limited

Listers Group Limited

XPS Pensions Consulting Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted for Steven Eagell Limited, Steven Eagell Properties, Listers Group Limited and FRF (South Wales) Limited on the acquisition of 19 Lexus and Toyota Dealerships from Marshall Motor Group.
  • Acting for Clifton Trade Bathrooms Limited in relation to their proposed expansion of units across the country. We have undertaken and completed transactions within 2 weeks of instructions.
  • Acted on behalf of Medigold Health Consultancy Limited in relation to their corporate acquisition of Health Management to create the UK’s largest occupational health group.

Real estate > Construction Tier 3

Howes Percival LLP has a small but highly capable construction practice in Cambridge, where director Simon Franklin is the firm's sole practitioner. He works closely with the real estate group to mainly advise on non-contentious matters across the UK, though he also handles some construction disputes. He counts commercial developers, contractors and consultants among his clients. Recent work includes a £70m leisure development for Turnstone Colchester Limited.

Practice head(s):

Simon Franklin

Key clients

Turnstone Colchester Limited

Norwich University of the Arts

Work highlights

  • Turnstone Colchester Limited – advised on the construction and leasing of a £70m leisure development.
  • Norwich University of the Arts – advised on the redevelopment of new exhibition space.

Private client > Agriculture and estates Tier 3

Lauded for its ‘excellent knowledge of trust requirements’, Howes Percival LLP is well-versed in agricultural holdings and protected tenancies, tax-efficient structuring, and transactional agriculture work. Katharine Danks oversees the team from Norwich and is knowledgeable of acquisitions and disposals, farming partnerships, as well as tax and trusts issues. In Northampton, Anna Spriggs is particularly experienced in acting for charities and landed estates on disposals for land development. Working out of Leicester, Jennie Loynes is proficient in charity property and compulsory purchases as well as secured lending.

Practice head(s):

Katharine Danks

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They have excellent knowledge of trust requirements, and they have the ability to draft complex documents protecting long-term interests.’

‘The team builds excellent client relationships and works seamlessly with other professional advisors.’

‘The team has provided a first class, professional service throughout all of our dealings with them and we would be happy to recommend them to others.’

‘Anna Spriggs provides excellent advice to her clients.’

‘Anna Spriggs stands out for her specialist knowledge of diocese matters and previous work with trusts.’

‘Our main point of contact is Anna Spriggs and as always she does an excellent job and we trust her completely – she always has our back.’

Work highlights

Private client > Contentious trusts and probate Tier 3

Commended as an ‘excellent regional contentious trusts and probate team’, Howes Percival LLP is frequently engaged in estate administration work. With over two decades of experience, Jennifer Laskey leads the team from Milton Keynes and is praised by clients as ‘intelligent, personable, robust, and an excellent litigator.’ In Leicester, Geraint Davies is proficient in commercial litigation and often advises clients on professional negligence claims, corporate and partnership disputes, as well as trust and tax disputes.

Practice head(s):

Jennifer Laskey

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘An excellent regional contentious trusts and probate team.’

‘Jennifer Laskey is an experienced and knowledgeable partner. She is intelligent, personable, robust, and an excellent litigator.’

‘The whole team worked well together and I was always well informed of what was going on.’

‘Jennifer Laskey was always very honest about my case and her expertise in the area was reassuring.’

‘Quick to help, reassure and react with pertinent and pragmatic advice.’

‘Jennifer was professional and did everything she could to get a positive result.’

Work highlights

Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate Tier 3

Tom Lawrence heads up the practice at Howes Percival LLP in Norwich, which acts for a client roster of high-net-worth individuals, families and trusts on a broad range of wealth and estate planning mandates, administration work, trusts and capacity issues. Other key practitioners include Alexandra Hornsby in Leicester and Stuart Maggs in Norwich, who is head of the firm’s private client services group.

Practice head(s):

Tom Lawrence

Other key lawyers:

Work highlights

Public sector Tier 3

Howes Percival LLP fields an ‘extremely knowledgeable’ team, which utilises its ‘extensive breadth of experience’ for clients from the healthcare, housing, and government sectors. As an employment law specialist, Graham Irons advises schools on trade union recognition and academy conversions. Robert Starr handles health and safety work for clients in the healthcare sector, and Simon deMaid focuses on employment law, particularly tribunal disputes.

Practice head(s):

Graham Irons; Robert Starr

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team at Howes Percival LLP are extremely knowledgeable and have an extensive breadth of experience.’

‘The individuals I have worked with are extremely approachable and I have appreciated their approach to problem-solving and giving all potential options for resolution.’

Key clients

Anchor Care Homes

Anchor Hanover Group

Braintree District Council

Breckland Alliance

Cambridge University Endowment Fund

Enterprise Retirement Living

E-Surgery / Total Access Health

Girton College, Cambridge

Norfolk & Norwich Association for the Blind

Norse Care

Norwich University of the Arts

South Holland District Council

South Norfolk Healthcare

Suffolk County Council

University of Cambridge

East and Central Brighton Primary Care Network

BHR Pharmaceuticals

West Norfolk Housing Company

Borough Council of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk

This Land Developments

Work highlights

Real estate > Planning and environment Tier 3

Howes Percival LLP handles work for national housebuilders, land promoters, and various corporate commercial clients, and Paul Hunt is known for securing planning permissions, promoting major SUEs, and handling High Court cases. Robert Starr specialises in health and safety matters, advising fire consultancies nationwide. Chris May departed in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Paul Hunt

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The planning team are always approachable and transparent with advice and timescales.’

‘Paul Hunt is a fantastic member of the team, no query is too big or small. He also explains things clearly, understands a developer’s POV and suggests suitable solutions accordingly.’

Key clients

Anchor Hanover Group

CVS Group

Mulberry Property Development

Persimmon Homes

Work highlights

  • Advised a client on many large-scale and complex legal agreements concerning the development of 950 dwellings.
  • Helped secure a grant of planning permission for a new garden village north of Birstall, Leicester.
  • Acting on behalf of a promoter seeking planning permission at appeal for a housing lead scheme of 650 to 700 dwellings.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 4

Regarded as providing a ‘very personal service’, Howes Percival LLP is regularly entrusted by a wealth of entertainment, media and publishing clients. The practice is led by James Howarth, who has considerable experience in the field of media disputes. Steven Maier contributes his varied expertise encompasses commercial, financial and IP disputes, among others, while Cathleen Blackburn is recommended for her ‘thorough, efficient and helpful’ nature.

Practice head(s):

James Howarth

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘We receive a very personal service from the firm and always get the feeling that those we work with really understand our organisation and our needs.’

‘We have worked closely with Cathleen Blackburn. She always gives us incredibly good service – thorough, efficient and helpful. She’s also able to translate legalese into understandable language for non-specialists, which is appreciated and reassuring.’

Key clients

The Tolkien Estate

Agatha Christie Limited

Magda Archer

Estate Of Peter Mayle

Tabbers Limited (Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme)

Welbeck Publishing Group

Owen Mumford Limited

Golf Holidays Direct Limited

Dx Group

Owen Mumford

Juxt Limited

Afl Hyperscale (Subsidiary Of Nikkei Listed Fujikura)

Security Alliance Limited

Xps Pensions

Bartington Instruments

Sounds Like Publishing

Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club

Massive Music

Raw Energy

Ocean On Land

Work highlights

  • Advising the Tolkien Estate in connection with the repeated infringement of its intellectual property rights in The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

East Midlands > Employment > Employment

Noted for its broad regional footprint, Howes Percival LLP is geared to handle restructuring, senior executive exits, tribunal claims, and TUPE. Paula Bailey oversees the practice and is noted for her strength in large-scale redundancies, while in Northampton, Graham Irons is active across both the public and private sectors. Nick Benton is often engaged in internal workplace investigations, and in Northampton, Hannah Pryce enjoys a strong track record in employment tribunals. Sobia Ahmad often works in conjunction with the firm’s corporate and commercial team on disposals, M&A, and settlement agreements. All of the individuals that have been mentioned are located in Leicester unless stated otherwise.

Practice head(s):

Paula Bailey

Other key lawyers:

Graham Irons; Nick Benton; Hannah Pryce; Sobia Ahmad; Alex Payton; Georgina Burrows

Testimonials

‘The Howes Percival employment team is very responsive, and provides clear, practical advice and solutions for HR matters which arise.’

‘Everyone I liaise with at Howes Percival is professional, provides detailed advice, and is responsive – I always get replies to my emails quickly – and the firm collaborates with its clients between cases.’

‘The team demonstrates sound knowledge and are always equipped to deal with any ER issues whether it be a small or more complex issue. ’

‘The Howes Percival employment law team is entirely down to earth and pragmatic. They take a refreshingly balanced risk assessment of contentious matters. They have a common sense approach to non-contentious negotiation.’

‘They are great and easy to work with. No question is too daft! I have worked with them for many years and they are my ‘go-to’ legal professionals wherever my professional journey takes me. I would particularly like to shout out the following for their engagement and continued relationship with me and my colleagues: Paula Bailey, Hannah Pryce, and Hannah Ball.’

‘Paula Bailey is a trusted partner and sounding board for all our employment law needs. ’

‘Graham Irons stands out for his calm pragmatic approach to legal advice and risk. He is capably supported by Sobia Ahmed. The practice has excellent levels of client service and quick response times.’

‘We have regular dealings with Nick Benton who is very responsive, very commercial, thorough, and a real pleasure working with.’

Key clients

All3Media Group

Children’s Investment Fund Foundation

DX Group

First Circle Packaging Limited

Getronics Services UK Limited

GraceKennedy Limited

H.W. Coates (Holdings) Limited

Mark Jarvis Ltd

Mercedes Benz UK Limited

Marston’s PLC

RS Components Limited

Spar (UK) Limited

Terex Corporation

The Gym Limited

World Vision UK

Work highlights

  • Advised Curve Theatre on a high-profile religious belief case in the EAT.
  • Advised Countrywide Estate Agents on the acquisition of an Oxfordshire based lettings and estate agency business.
  • Advised Medigold Health on the acquisition of Health Management.

East Midlands > Real estate > Property litigation

Howes Percival LLP’s solid client base includes large companies, investment funds, institutional landlords, and developers. The team is noted for its breadth of expertise and management of property portfolios for both landlords and tenants. Geraint Davies has amassed considerable experience in high-value property disputes covering a wide range of real estate issues, and Satnam Chayra is well respected for her property litigation prowess, predominantly assisting with landlord and tenant cases. Leanne Davis is a landlord and tenant specialist whose purview includes high-value dilapidations, renewals, forfeitures and covenant claims.

Practice head(s):

Geraint Davies

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Their attention to detail and complete understanding of the issue at hand.’

‘I often refer clients to Howes Percival – their technical prowess is always evident, navigating complex legal terrain with finesse and precision. What always sets them apart is their strategic approach, crafting ingenious solutions tailored to my specific needs while anticipating potential challenges.’

‘Hugely experienced, very capable and professional.’

Key clients

C Brewer & Sons

Spar

De Montfort University

Hughes Electrical

Green King

Davidsons Homes

Work highlights

  • Advising a trust and various family members with an ownership dispute over valuable land.
  • Advising a client on rights to seek partition of jointly owned land and thereafter issuing a claim.
  • Advising on unlawful forfeiture of lease of valuable commercial premises.

East Midlands > Finance > Banking and finance

Lauded as a ‘go-to within the East Midlands market’, the Leicester-based practice Howes Percival LLP is knowledgeable of a broad range of corporate finance matters. Practice head Haydon Simmonds is praised as ‘extremely commercial and knowledgeable’ and is experienced in advising lenders and borrowers on leveraged and acquisition financings. Katherine Cereghino is well-versed in real estate finance transactions in the healthcare sector, while Faye Meredith handles cross-border banking transactions.

Practice head(s):

Haydon Simmonds

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Howes Percival are extremely well-regarded and their banking team is a go-to within the East Midlands market.’

‘The Howes Percival banking team have a strong profile locally and work on a good volume of local banking deals.’

‘Howes Percival have a diverse offering of services covering all client needs, they have made great strides compared to other competitors in the market to be a client-centric firm. They are specialists in their given fields and have deep knowledge of various sectors.’

‘Katherine Cereghino is a great asset to Howes Percival. We have worked with a number of law firms and Katherine’s ability to handle any situation in a calm and methodical manner sets her apart from many of her peers.’

‘Katherine Cereghino is very approachable, understanding, and is always available for a conversation.’

‘Haydon Simmons is a very competent and approachable lawyer, his communication and knowledge of the banking process we worked on recently was excellent.’

‘Haydon Simmons is personable as well as extremely commercial and knowledgeable when it comes to banking and finance.’

‘Haydon Simmonds and Faye Meredith are very experienced and knowledgeable. They are calm and unflustered.’

Key clients

HSBC UK Bank plc

National Westminster Bank plc

Santander UK Plc

Handelsbanken Plc

RQ Capital Limited

Barclays Bank plc

Lloyds Bank plc

Bank of Scotland plc

Cambridge and Counties Bank plc

The Property Investor Partnership Limited

ThinCats

OakNorth

Work highlights

  • Advised on a multimillion-pound working capital package for one of the leading national house builders based in the East Midlands.
  • Advised on a multimillion-pound funding package supporting the EOT of a National automotive retailer.
  • Advised on a multimillion funding package for a private equity backed healthcare business based in the East Midlands to support acquisitions.

East Midlands > Public sector > Public sector

Howes Percival LLP fields an ‘extremely knowledgeable’ team, which utilises its ‘extensive breadth of experience’ for clients from the healthcare, housing, and government sectors. As an employment law specialist, Graham Irons advises schools on trade union recognition and academy conversions. Robert Starr handles health and safety work for clients in the healthcare sector, and Simon deMaid focuses on employment law, particularly tribunal disputes.

Practice head(s):

Graham Irons; Robert Starr

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team at Howes Percival LLP are extremely knowledgeable and have an extensive breadth of experience.’

‘The individuals I have worked with are extremely approachable and I have appreciated their approach to problem-solving and giving all potential options for resolution.’

Key clients

Anchor Care Homes

Anchor Hanover Group

Braintree District Council

Breckland Alliance

Cambridge University Endowment Fund

Enterprise Retirement Living

E-Surgery / Total Access Health

Girton College, Cambridge

Norfolk & Norwich Association for the Blind

Norse Care

Norwich University of the Arts

South Holland District Council

South Norfolk Healthcare

Suffolk County Council

University of Cambridge

East and Central Brighton Primary Care Network

BHR Pharmaceuticals

West Norfolk Housing Company

Borough Council of Kings Lynn & West Norfolk

This Land Developments

Work highlights

The firm: Howes Percival is a leading regional, full service law firm operating across the heartland of England. The firm has expertise and resources usually associated with much larger national and City firms and provides legal services to businesses, the government and individuals. The firm prides itself on the agile, energetic and commercial approach of its lawyers.

Howes Percival values excellent client relationships and invests time and resources in understanding its clients’ businesses, the sectors they operate in and their requirements. The firm’s offices and teams work closely together with clients to provide them with a seamless, high-quality service. The location of the firm’s office network helps it provide services to clients across the country.

Howes Percival has been ranked in the ‘Best Companies to Work For’ list four years running.  The 2023 list saw the firm rise 8 places to 51st position in the UK’s 100 Best Large Companies to Work For category and 6th in the Top 10 Best Large Law Firms to Work For list. The firm achieved a 2 star Best Companies accreditation, which is given to organisations with an ‘outstanding’ commitment to workplace engagement.

Types of work undertaken: Howes Percival provides services to a range of clients including, Marston’s, Persimmon Homes, the University of Cambridge, Greene King and All3Media. However, it also has a large client base of owner-managed businesses and individuals. It has particular expertise in the automotive, development and construction, education, food and drink, and leisure and tourism sectors.

The firm is also appointed, as part of a consortium, to the Government’s Crown Commercial Service (CCS) Full Service Panel for England and Wales and is a Tier 1 supplier to CCS’s General Legal Advice Services panel, used by all UK central government ministerial and non-ministerial departments.

Corporate: Howes Percival is a market leader in corporate work and has particular expertise in corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, disposals, MBOs and MBIs, and private equity transactions.

Commercial: In the commercial space the firm is recommended for outsourcing agreements, joint ventures, manufacturing and supply agreements, IT work and intellectual property agreements.

Banking:  All aspects of banking law (both transactional and advisory) are dealt with by Howes Percival’s specialist banking and finance team. The firm acts for both lenders and borrowers, across a range of corporate and real estate credits, on transactions of all sizes.

Commercial property: Howes Percival has a highly skilled and extremely well-regarded commercial property team providing specialist advice on all aspects of the sale and purchase of residential and commercial development land and built out sites, option and clawback arrangements, commercial leases and property portfolio management, banking and finance, planning, environmental issues, mines and minerals, construction and property tax.

Dispute resolution: The firm has an extremely experienced dispute resolution team which advises national and international companies, government clients and individuals on commercial disputes in the UK and overseas.

Insolvency and corporate recovery: Howes Percival’s extensive insolvency and corporate recovery team operates nationally and has a strong reputation for handling insolvency work both in the UK and overseas. Alongside offering advice on formal insolvency proceedings, the team advises businesses suffering financial stress – from sole traders through to large public limited companies.

Intellectual property: Howes Percival’s intellectual property team advises clients across a range of business sectors and is experienced in contentious and non-contentious intellectual property matters. The firm’s solicitors handle an extensive caseload of litigation in the English High Court, the Intellectual Property and Enterprise Court and the European Courts, as well as the UK and European Intellectual Property offices.

Property litigation: The firm’s property litigation team predominantly advises large organisations as well as investment funds, institutional landlords, developers, owner managed businesses and private individuals. The team also regularly manages property portfolios for landlords and tenants alike and handle their lease renewals and exits. Howes Percival’s property litigation lawyers have a particularly exemplary and meticulous approach to contentious break clauses and dilapidations claims as well as a significant amount of experience working with clients in the development sector, landed estates and regularly consults on land diversification.

Health and safety: The team has a deserved reputation for pragmatism, client-focus, commercial awareness and strategic-thinking in the health and safety field, where it handles a full range of contentious and non-contentious work. It is known for its work across a variety of sectors, including construction, manufacturing, healthcare and education, and is renowned for its work in the minerals and extractives sector.

Employment: An award-winning team providing the full range of contentious and non-contentious work for clients. The team carries out high quality work for a range of clients across the country, from household names to owner managed businesses, gaining new instructions based on reputation alone. Members of the team provide solution-focused commercial employment advice, taking a robust approach to litigation (having gained a number of costs awards in favour of clients) and are particularly experienced in handling complex, high-value litigation disputes.

Family: The team provides high-level and solution-focused advice upon the financial aspect of divorce and relationship breakdown. They regularly advise upon pre-nuptial agreements and other strategies for wealth preservation in families.  They specialise in representing high net worth individuals including company directors, entrepreneurs and celebrities or their spouses. They have expertise in cases involving family businesses, farming businesses, complex corporate structures and trusts.  The team also advises on private children law issues and domestic violence. They benefit from two qualified collaborative lawyers.

Private client: A highly respected team providing advanced estate planning including preparation of wills, formation of trusts and bespoke tax solutions for landowners, directors and high-net-worth individuals with extensive experience advising farms and estates, administering trusts and advising charities. The team includes three Fellows of the Agricultural Law Association and is a retained adviser on Camelot’s legal panel. Team memberships include ACTAPS and STEP.

Offices: Cambridge, Leicester, Manchester, Milton Keynes, Northampton, Norwich and Oxford

Department Name Email Telephone
Banking Tessa Haskey
Wills and probate Tom Lawrence
Commercial contracts Gerald Couldrake
Commercial property Tessa Haskey
Commercial property Jonathan Greenhalgh
Commercial property Lucy Lord
Commercial property Nicholas James
Corporate and Commercial Gerald Couldrake
Education Graham Irons
Employment Paula Bailey
Employment Graham Irons
Employment Simon DeMaid
Employment Matthew Potter
Family Justine Flack
Farms and estates Stuart Maggs
Fraud recovery Geraint Davies
Government recovery Morris Peacock
Health and safety Alan Millband
Insolvency Katie Summers
Insolvency Deborah Nigh
Insolvency Michael Green
Intellectual property Matthew Talbot
Intellectual property James Howarth
IT and telecoms Matthew Talbot
Litigation and dispute resolution Geraint Davies
Litigation and dispute resolution Satnam Chayra
Litigation and dispute resolution Michael Green
Planning and environment Chris May
Planning and environment Alan Millband
Commercial Property Steven Beach
Corporate Oliver Brookshaw
Commercial Property Stuart Burns
Commercial Property Christopher Cubitt
Estates Katharine Danks
Commercial Property Michaela Henson
Planning Paul Hunt
Property Litigation Jamie Kidd
Tax Stuart Maggs
Private Client Stuart Maggs
Property Litigation Simon Murphy
Commercial Property Jo Nicholls
Insolvency Deborah Nigh
Insolvency William Shirley
Intellectual Property Hannah Steggles
Insolvency Katie Summers
Healthcare Oliver Pritchard
Corporate Oliver Pritchard
Commercial Property Marcus Carter
Commercial Paula Dumbill
Corporate and Commercial Andy Harris
Corporate and Commercial Matthew Thompson
Regulation and Compliance Robert Starr
Health and Safety Robert Starr
Planning Jay Mehta
Corporate Tom Redman
Employment Alex Payton
Wills and probate Alexandra Hornsby
Commercial Property Alexandra Kirkwood
Agriculture & Estates Anna Spriggs
Immigration Bilal Ehsan
Intellectual Property Cathleen Blackburn
Commercial Property Elizabeth Thomas
Commercial Property Estelle Corner
Social Housing Estelle Corner
Banking Faye Meredith
Corporate Gareth John
Corporate and Commercial Gary Smith
Employment Hannah Pryce
Commercial Property James Henderson
Corporate James Stephen
Planning Jamie Childs
Commercial Property Jasmine Mason
Corporate Jeremy Hyde
Contentious Trusts and Probate Jennifer Laskey
Corporate and Banking Katherine Cereghino
Planning Marco Mauro
IT and Commercial Max Windich
Construction Piet van Gelder
Corporate Richard Turner
Wills and probate Stephen Patch
Intellectual Property Steven Maier
Commercial Property Susannne Hinde
Commercial Property Tim Bacon
Photo Name Position Profile
Marcus Carter photo Marcus Carter Marcus is Head of the Commercial Property team in the Milton Keynes…
Andrew Harris photo Andrew Harris Andy is a Consultant in the Milton Keynes Corporate Team, having re-joined…
James Howarth photo James Howarth James helps clients with media issues and disputes regarding intellectual property. With…
Faye Meredith photo Faye Meredith Having previously trained with the firm, Faye re-joined Howes Percival in March…
Hannah Pryce photo Hannah Pryce Hannah has considerable experience of providing contentious and non-contentious employment law advice…
Gary  Smith  photo Gary Smith City trained, Gary is a highly experienced corporate lawyer. He acts for…
Simon deMaid photo Simon deMaid With a number of high profile Milton Keynes clients, Simon heads up…
Photo Name Position Profile
Leanne  Davis  photo Leanne Davis Leanne advises on a wide range of contentious property issues, involving residential,…
Jennifer  Laskey  photo Jennifer Laskey Jennifer is an experienced contentious probate and trusts specialist. She is ACTAPS (The…
Tom  Redman  photo Tom Redman Tom is a corporate, M&A, private equity and venture capital specialist and…
Chris  White  photo Chris White Chris is a very experienced commercial and technology lawyer advising on a…
Number of UK partners : 63
Number of other UK fee-earners : 237
Resolution
Abacus Worldwide
Agricultural Law Association
Employment Lawyers Association

Howes Percival is committed to diversity and inclusion and, as part of ongoing recognition of the importance of equal opportunities in the workplace, launched a new strategy in 2021 to ensure equality and diversity remain ‘key strategic and business priorities’ and are given renewed focus going forwards.

The firm has appointed three partners to lead the new initiative. They are supported by the firm’s Equality and Diversity Committee which is actively driving key initiatives to ensure we are a truly a diverse employer. These include signing up to the 10,000 Black Interns programme and running regular internal events to support equality and diversity initiatives such as Pride, International Women’s Day and Black History Month.

Under the renewed strategy, we have undertaken a comprehensive equality and diversity survey and are reviewing all of our processes and policies, including recruitment, promotions, appraisals and equality and diversity training, to ensure that they continue to align with our aims.

We continue to be a signatory to the Law Society’s Diversity and Inclusion Charter which is a public commitment by legal practices to promote the values of diversity and inclusion throughout their business.

As a minimum, all staff have basic equality and diversity training as part of their induction. This is supported by compulsory group training sessions held on a regular basis for new starters and a ‘refresher’ training session for all staff every three years. The training introduces all staff to the legal concepts in relation to equality and diversity and how discrimination or harassment can arise in practice and reinforces our key policies as well as how to raise concerns. Training attendance is monitored by the Equality and Diversity Committee as well as the Board.

We recognise that we must not be complacent when it comes to improving diversity within our firm and our equality and diversity strategy is under constant review.


CLIENT: Stuart Bizley, Non-Executive Director
COMPANY/FIRM: Big Sky Developments
TESTIMONIAL: Howes Percival acted for Big Sky Developments Ltd in the acquisition of a high value residential development scheme which included multi-party planning and infrastructure agreements. The team maintained excellent response times throughout the matter and were able to work effectively to tight deadlines. Part of the matter involved a funding arrangement in connection with the development for which the team were able to negotiate a favourable position. The team is made up of experienced individuals who are approachable, helpful and quick to respond. I continue to work with them on a range of projects and would have no hesitation in recommending them.


CLIENT: Angela Robson, Deputy Vice Chancellor
COMPANY/FIRM: Norwich University of the Arts
TESTIMONIAL: The Howes Percival team are always extremely helpful and quick to respond. They are very approachable and always able to provide clear, practical advice that is tailored to our needs. We would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Howes Percival to other organisations.


CLIENT: Owner and Managing Director, Duncan Geddes
COMPANY/FIRM: The Vita Group
TESTIMONIAL: We really appreciate all the help and support provided by the team at Howes Percival. Our deal happened incredibly quickly and the team were able to react and help us meet a really tight deadline, without compromising on the high quality service, ensuring we were protected throughout the transaction.


CLIENT: Alison Shaw, Head of HR Shared Services
COMPANY/FIRM: Marston’s Plc
TESTIMONIAL: We really enjoy working with the team at Howes Percival. A consistently efficient and friendly service and we always appreciate their sound advice, support and guidance.


CLIENT: James Knight, Director
COMPANY/FIRM: Craft Leisure
TESTIMONIAL: A very professional, responsive and reassuring organisation, who give the impression that they genuinely have the best interests of their clients at heart. All members of the team were good at listening to our opinions, taking them on board and offering sound and imaginative advice based on our needs and expectations. We would certainly have no hesitation in recommending them to others, and using them for the next project.