Shoosmiths LLP > Northampton, England > Firm Profile

Shoosmiths LLP
THE LAKES
Bedford Road
NORTHAMPTON
NN4 7SH
England

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1

Counting global corporates, private equity houses, and venture capital investors on its client roster, the Nottingham-based practice at Shoosmiths LLP is commended as ‘pragmatic’. With extensive transactional experience, Crispin Bridges Webb co-leads the practice and often assists private and public companies on capital fundraising and reductions, corporate restructuring, joint ventures, and M&A. Co-head Michelle Craven-Faulkner is knowledgeable of commercial contracts and specialises in the rail sector. Ania Vernon’s broad practice encompasses private equity investments and exits, while Marcus-Adam Tuck is another key team member.

Practice head(s):

Crispin Bridges Webb; Michelle Craven-Faulkner

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team is very responsive and has a good understanding of our legal needs, they strive for solutions.’

‘Very user-friendly and pragmatic.’

‘Crispin Bridges Webb is an approachable partner with very good expertise and a practical approach. We appreciate that he often coordinates his team in the background.’

‘Ania Vernon is very fast in comprehension and reaction, with very good organisational skills.’

Key clients

Shareholders of Datapath Group

DMB

Northwood Investors

Note AB

Jensten Group

Addtech AB

Poetics AI

FINTOP Capital

Kanalservice Holding AG

Heimerle + Meule GmbH

Foresight

BGF

Ufenau Capital

L. Possehl

Downing

Triple Point

Freightliner Group Limited

Hitachi Rail Limited

Honda Finance Europe plc

Ikano Insight Ltd

INIT Innovations in Transportation Limited

Alan Dick Communications Limited

World Duty Free Limited

GXO Logistics UK Limited

Acaster Lloyd Consulting Ltd

Jaguar Land Rover Limited

Deliveroo European Limited

Sperry Rail (International) Limited

WH Davis Limited

Richard Whitehead Foundation

Hoover Limited

Davis Wagon Services Limited

Cushman & Wakefield Debenham Tie Leug Ltd

Daventry Metal Products Limited

Story Contracting Limited

Commify UK Limited

Attic Self Storage London

Mid-Counties Co-Op

Henkel Limited

Spamhaus EU Limited

TotalEnergies Charging Solutions UK Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Foresight Group and existing shareholders on the disposal of Datapath (a Derby-based digital screen solutions technology business) to an overseas buyer.
  • Acting for Northwood Investors in connection with multiple leveraged acquisitions and subsequent off-shorings of high-value UK commercial real estate assets.
  • Acting for a global automotive OEM on the launch of a new e-bike.

Employment > Immigration Tier 1

Corporate support solutions, sponsor license applications, and visa packages remain a key component of the practice at Shoosmiths LLP. On the personal immigration side, the practice is also proficient in British citizenship applications, indefinite leave applications, and spouse visas. In Nottingham, Rachel Harvey co-leads the team with the Manchester-based Emma Morgan; Harvey is praised for her ‘savvy commercial advice and ability to get the job done.’ Also based in Nottingham, Rory Stone’s recent caseload encompasses urgent visa applications; Stone is adept at both employment and immigration law matters.

Practice head(s):

Emma Morgan; Rachel Harvey

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Rachel Harvey always has the answers to the commercial issues our business needs, she is the best immigration lawyer we have worked with due to her savvy commercial advice and ability to get the job done. She is excellent at dealing with our high profile Premier League football clients who are very demanding.’

‘Shoosmiths provides practical and sound information and solutions.’

‘We have total confidence in the advice provided by the partners we have worked with.’

Key clients

MV Fruehauf

Revolution Bars Group

Playground Games

CityFibre

BI Worldwide

ESCATEC Mechatronics Ltd

Bernard Holmes

Amey

SUFC

Work highlights

  • Advised on a personal immigration matter for an individual who is applying to remain in the UK on the basis of her private life and human rights (Article 8 ECHR).
  • Advised on strategic new hires and existing employees seeking to switch visa category.
  • Acted for a national retailer on an appeal to the Home Office in respect of a potential £20,000.00 civil penalty for allegedly employing an adult who was subject to immigration control who no longer had the right to work in the UK.

Insurance > Personal injury and clinical negligence: claimant Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP  has been praised as ‘very professional with lots of empathy’. On the personal injury side of the practice, the team handles serious life-changing and catastrophic injuries, including spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, amputations, complex pain, severe burns, serious psychological trauma, industrial disease and care home neglect. For clinical negligence, the team routinely acts in cases involving birth injury, cauda equina, stillbirths and delayed diagnosis of cancer, among many others. Andrea Rusbridge heads up clinical negligence, whilst Sharine Burgess leads the personal injury team. Rusbridge is highly experienced in the space and is a go-to name for birth injury, spinal injury, and cauda equina as well as both misdiagnosis and delayed diagnosis of cancer cases.

Practice head(s):

Andrea Rusbridge; Sharine Burgess

Other key lawyers:

Sarah Cunliffe; Simon Towler

Testimonials

‘I have been I contact with an individual named Sharine for nearly five years now I would recommend her and the firm to anyone in a heartbeat. Sharine exhibits honesty, integrity and respect. Sharine takes her time to explain anything to me that I don’t understand. I know that Sharine has had to speak with many of my family members and each and everyone of them is of the same opinion.’

‘Along with many service providers, the differences can often be attributed to the people involved. Although my dealings with solicitors in general is not extensive, the service here was remarkable.’

‘I have to mention Sharine Burgess in particular – she and her team provided prompt, personal service that extended to home visits. Part of the benefit of using this partner was her experience with various other experts when further specific opinions were needed, whether from medical experts or from a barrister familiar with actual court cases involving similar issues.’

‘Very professional with lots of empathy for my predicament.’

‘The clinical negligence team is headed up by Andrea Rusbridge who is a very experienced litigator with empathy for injured clients. I consider her and her team to be the best clinical negligence specialists in her area.’

‘Andrea Rusbridge heads up the team and is involved in catastrophic injury cases. She is thorough in preparation and empathetic. A recent case involving a client who suffers from cancer demonstrates her concern and she has been focussed on a quick settlement so that the client can get on with her life.’

‘They are a successful Personal Injury/Negligence practice. They fit their needs around the Claimant and will work remotely with you.’

‘Simon Towler has been wonderful from the start. He’s always been willing to answer any questions. We have felt fully part of the process, it is as if he is holding our hand. He has never been negative.He is very knowledgeable and this also comes across from his team who have always been kind and respectful when we have spoken to them.’

Work highlights

Real estate > Commercial property: Nottingham and Derby Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP‘s commercial property team excels in international and national transactions, as well as regional deals; investment and development projects are all hallmarks of the practice. Deborah Gordon Brown is skilled at managing takeovers of sizeable real estate portfolios, refinances, and development agreements, and the practice also benefits from Ellis Gardner-Browne‘s specialist knowledge of the investment, petroleum, retail, and leisure spaces. Matthew Kenwood leads the practice and provides comprehensive advice to occupiers and investors, and Su Kemp is a commercial property lawyer specialising in retail tenant matters. Matthew Kemp and Helen Parrott are also key team members.

Practice head(s):

Matthew Kenwood

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team are very commercial and approachable.’ 

‘Su Kemp is exemplary in her attention to detail, commerciality and communication.’

‘An attentive and hard-working team, it is easy to know who is working on our matters and they keep the team small but well qualified.’

 

Key clients

Feldberg Capital

Yianis Group

Safestore Group

White & Case

Central England Co-op

Mountain Warehouse

Rutland Cycles

Walgreens Boots Alliance Group of Companies

Estee Lauder Cosmetics

AEW Europe

Northwood Investors

MOTO Hospitality

I&C Sustainable Nature

I&C Property consultants

Leftfield Group

SGN Limited

TG Convenience Stores

Pizza Hut

Freshwave Group

Arkley Commercial Property

Nottingham Rowing Club

Work highlights

  • Advised ReForm on the first close of its £500m ‘brown to green’ fund.
  • Acted on the acquisition of UK logistic portfolios for Northwood Investors.
  • Acting for Leftfield Capital on the acquisition development and financing of logistics assets.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: mid-market Tier 1

The ‘excellent, versatile and highly-capable commercial litigation team’ at Shoosmiths LLP handles major disputes involving shareholders, breach of contract, fraud, misrepresentation, negligence, and breaches of warranty claims. It also assists with injunctive relief and other notable areas include technology and telecoms disputes, crypto and cyber and crisis management, and banking and insurance disputes. A May 2023 hire from Goodwin, London head Hannah Field acts across a range of cross-border and domestic disputes and Susie Wakefield leads the firm’s commercial insurance team. Bill Molloy is ‘an outstanding commercial litigator’ and Matt Green is the firm’s blockchain litigation lead. The next line of experienced practitioners showcases Daren Allen, whose track record includes leading cases concerning disputes between customers and banks that involve money laundering allegations, and banking and finance litigator Andrew Bowden-Brown. Other names to note are Matthew MacLachlan, who routinely acts in large commercial litigation and cyber incidents, and the ‘thorough and diligentJohn Shirley-Rakhra, whose caseload encompasses general commercial litigation, along with insurance, financial services and corporate disputes. Alex Bishop heads the national dispute resolution and litigation practice from Birmingham, while former luxury asset group leader Elliot Bishop left the firm during 2023.

Practice head(s):

Alex Bishop; Hannah Field; Bill Molloy

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths has an excellent, versatile and highly-capable commercial litigation team.’

‘The team is highly effective and delivers an excellent service to clients.’

‘Shoosmiths has very intense partner involvement throughout the litigation.’

‘Responsive, pragmatic and on-point advice that really helps clients make decisions.’

‘Bill Molloy is excellent. He is a team player and leader – very good at running a team focused on winning.’

‘Bill Molloy is an outstanding commercial litigator – thorough, tenacious, and with excellent strategic and tactical judgement.’

‘Susie Wakefield does a sterling job in managing the team, strategy and clients. Susie is very knowledgeable and an expert in her field – her input is exemplary.’

‘John Shirley-Rakhra is the standout senior associate. He is thorough and diligent in his work but also has a very good rapport with all parties.’

Key clients

Get Living

Platinum Fortune

Platinum Wealth Development

Global Switch

Everbridge Holdings

Everbridge

CompRe

Bothnia

Liberty Specialty Markets

Large Nigerian Manufacturing Company

Zurich Insurance

Work highlights

  • Defending Dr Craig Wright in a high-profile case to determine whether he is the person behind the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto, who created Bitcoin in 2008.
  • Acting for Platinum Fortune and Platinum Wealth Development (BVI) in a cross-border $530m shareholder dispute concerning shares in Jagex.
  • Representing Liberty Specialty Markets in numerous sets of proceedings (known as the Russian aviation litigation), which concern a reinsurance contract for the loss of aircraft following the Russian invasion of the Ukraine in February 2022.

Employment > Health and safety Tier 1

The group at Shoosmiths LLP is considered ‘second-to-none’ by clients and is headed up by the ‘exceptional, no-nonsense lawyer’ Hayley Saunders, who works from the firm’s Birmingham hub and has strong expertise in providing non-contentious compliance advice and in defending clients in investigations and prosecutions. Major disaster response and management is a key area of specialism for the team, and one of Phil Ryan‘s prominent focus areas, while regulatory crime specialist Charles Arrand is described as ‘a star of the regulatory field’. Rubina Zaidi is also noteworthy for her work assisting with national public inquiries. Joanne Sear departed to an in-house role in June 2024, and former co-lead Roy Tozer retired from practice in June 2023.

Practice head(s):

Hayley Saunders

Other key lawyers:

Charles Arrand; Phil Ryan; Paul Eccles; Rubina Zaidi; Kirsty Hughes

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths’ continued specialist HSE legal advice and engagement has been second-to-none. The pragmatism, relationship management and delivery have never faltered.’

‘Charles Arrand is a star of the regulatory field. He has unparalleled knowledge and experience of health and safety law and environmental regulation.’

‘A good-sized team working in health and safety – both for companies and individuals.’

‘Hayley Saunders is a go-to for her client manner and deep experience in health and safety and inquests. Easy to work with and she knows her stuff.’

‘Very user-friendly with knowledge across a wide-range of regulatory areas which enables them to put their advice in a commercial context for our business. They are prepared to advise in difficult and new areas, rather than simply providing options.’

‘Phil Ryan is able to provide advice on some really thorny issues affecting the safe operation of our business; Hayley Saunders has fantastic health and safety experience, particularly where dealing with high risk industries and crisis management – she is very down-to-earth and user-friendly.’

‘In my experience without exception everybody in the team is 100% client-focused and they worked seamlessly together. That is very unique. They also have excellent depth and breadth and can draw upon other disciplines to bolster the work being done when required.’

‘Paul Eccles is an exceptional client liaison who takes much of the strain and the pain for the client during cases; Hayley Saunders is wise beyond her years and an exceptional, no-nonsense lawyer.’

Key clients

IKEA Ltd

Calor Gas

WeWork

Hitachi Rail

Total

Poundland

McDonald’s Restaurants Limited

The Middle Level Commissioners

Work highlights

  • Advising a leading electrical retailer on the health and safety operations at one of its warehouses, including conducting an investigation into the third party operator whose employees were clearly acting unsafely and failing to report incidents.
  • Acted for the regulator in the prosecution of a very large organisation following a fatal accident involving an employee hit by a reversing vehicle during unloading operations in 2019.

Employment > Immigration Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP draws considerable praise from clients for its ability to provide ‘useful and enlightening’ advice to a diverse roster of clients, regularly handling sponsor licence applications and compliance and right to work checks. Practice head Emma Morgan is noted for her ability to act for clients from the worlds of logistics, education, engineering, telecoms and construction. Fellow co-head Rachel Harvey, who is based in Nottingham, stands out for her experience in both corporate and personal immigration affairs. Caroline Bagley regularly supports clients on personal immigration matters, such as family and private life applications.

Practice head(s):

Emma Morgan; Rachel Harvey

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths spent time and effort to understand our organisation and its complexities. The advice provided was very useful and enlightening.’

‘All the individuals dealt with were down to earth, with a friendly yet professional manner. They were easy to talk to and knew the right questions to ask.’

‘I trust Shoosmiths to deliver results and get any complex business project through to fruition. The team specialise in different business areas.’

‘Caroline Bagley is an immigration law specialist and really made the process simple and easier to understand.’

Key clients

MV Fruehauf

Revolution Bars Group

ABO Wind

Playground Games

CityFibre Holdings Limited

Amey

BI Worldwide Ltd

ESCATEC Mechatronics Ltd

Pixxles Ltd

Bernald Holmes

John Smith & Son Group Limited

South Staffordshire College

Source Bio International Limited

The Francis Crick Institute

Work highlights

  • Advising ESCATEC Mechatronics Ltd  on the permitted intra-corporate activities relevant to a senior employee’s business visit to the UK.
  • Advising Pixxles Ltd on the available immigration routes to meet their needs, and assisting the business to expand their existing sponsor licence to include a Global Business Mobility tier.
  • Acting for BI Worldwide Ltd on skilled worker visa applications for IT professionals.

Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 1

The debt and asset recovery practice at Shoosmiths LLP regularly services banking and building society clients, energy sector companies, and construction industry providers on credit management matters, asset services and insolvency processes, with additional experience in litigation and enforcement cases. Praised as ‘excellent and knowledgeable’, Andrew Foyle spearheads the ‘astute, user-friendly and experienced’ team alongside Stuart Clubb, handling the full range of financial regulatory matters. Sophie McNally is another key contact in the team.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Foyle; Stuart Clubb

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Andrew Foyle oversees a well-resourced and experienced team, managing the day-to-day caseload meaning our instructions are handled quickly and efficiently. Advice on challenging matters is readily provided by Andrew and his colleagues.’

‘Andrew Foyle is very experienced and a safe pair of hands.’

‘We work with Andrew Foyle and Stuart Clubb, who are both excellent and knowledgeable. They are very accessible when needed and understand what their client wants.’

‘Astute, user-friendly and experienced.’

‘We recognise Shoosmiths as the leading provider of commercial and finance debt recovery in Scotland.’

‘They are always on hand to provide advice and have been supportive with some of the challenges that we faced as a business.’

‘Good blend of skills with an excellent working knowledge of how the local courts operate.’

‘Andrew Foyle has an exceptional understanding of clients’ needs.’

Key clients

ADI Gardner

Breedon Group

Cabot Credit Management

Calor Gas

Castle Water

Cumberland Building Society

DM Hall LLP

First Response Finance Limited

Leeds Building Society

MKM Building Supplies

Ovo Energy

PPL PRS Limited

Propel Finance

Screwfix

Speedy Asset Services

Work highlights

  • Acted for a supplier to the construction industry in a case which challenged their standard documentation, and in particular whether the wording within their application form constituted a personal guarantee by the director.
  • Appeared as solicitor advocate in the Court of Session to oppose an application for leave to appeal by a customer of a lender in a long-running action.
  • Acted for a utilities provider in relation to a case involving a corporate structure being used for the purposes of avoiding liabilities for the supply of utilities to a number of properties used as holiday lets.

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

The team at Shoosmiths LLP is praised as ‘reliable, always available, and has the client’s best interests in mind’. Corporate head Claire Checketts has significant M&A expertise and frequently represents major private equity houses. Head of private equity Amit Nayyar is known for his ‘great commercial mindset’ and spearheads many of the firm’s relationships with blue-chip PE clients, focusing on mid-market transactions. Robin Webb leads the commercial team, whilst Wayne Gibbard is another key contact for work in the financial services sector.

Practice head(s):

Amit Nayyar; Robin Webb; Wayne Gibbard; Claire Checketts

Other key lawyers:

Sebastian Price; Aleksandr Bosch; Holly Hirst

Testimonials

‘Great private equity deal experience and knowledge.’

‘The Shoosmiths team is reliable, always available, and has the client’s best interests in mind. They work as a team to deliver on deals efficiently, and their hard work and dedication is always appreciated.’

‘Amit Nayyar has a great commercial mindset and knows the client position very well. Holly Hirst is extremely efficient and gives 100% on every transaction; she is on top of every task and workstream. Claire Checketts is able to drive the various workstreams forward. ’

‘Clients wants straightforward advice, pitched to the level of understanding of their client – not confusing, not taking down, together with a sense that the client is important and that the law firm is “in the trenches” with them at busy times. One gets that from Shoosmiths. These qualities are evident in individuals like Claire Checketts and Holly Hirst.’

‘Willing to go the extra mile and always seeking the best solutions to the business issues.’

Key clients

Rothschild & Co (Five Arrows, private equity arm)

Jaguar Land Rover

Business Growth Fund

Five Arrows Long Term Fund

Travelodge

Close Brothers Ltd

Global Switch

Facit Data Systems Ltd

Static Systems Group

The Third Space Group Limited

IMS Evolve

Nissan

Renault

Peugeot Citroen Vauxhall

Honda

Foundation Investment Partners

Volkswagen Group

Mercedes Benz

The White Company

Volkswagen Financial Services

Work highlights

  • Advising Five Arrows Principal Investments and Five Arrows Long Term Fund on its acquisition of a majority stake in n2y LLC; a leading provider of comprehensive, technology powered solutions for students with unique learning challenges.
  • Advising Five Arrows Growth Capital and TA Associates on their acquisition of a majority stake in Agilio Software Topco Limited.
  • Negotiated and finalised a contract for Close Brothers Ltd with Zellis UK Limited, their payroll calculation software provider.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Hampshire Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP advises clients on matters relating to venture capital, private equity, M&A issues. The ‘reliable, dependable, and well-resourced’ team is led by Stephen Porter in Solent, who has significant experience advising on corporate transactions and joint ventures. Lisa Sigalet and Sean Wright are further standout lawyers; Wright regularly acts for financial sponsors and equity providers, and Sigalet, who is praised for being ‘extremely knowledgeable’, advises on acquisitions, disposals and corporate governance. Laura Austin and Emma Livesey are also noted for their experience assisting with private equity investments. Mark Shepherd retired from the practice in May 2023.

Practice head(s):

Stephen Porter

Testimonials

‘The local Shoosmiths team has deep expertise across a broad range of corporate transactions, particularly deals involving private equity. They are trusted to advise clients through complex M&A processes, providing valuable support and clear guidance.’

‘Lisa Sigalet stands out as lawyer who provides great support to clients throughout the transaction process. She works very well with other deal advisers and builds rapport with counterparties, all of which can be critical in managing complex negotiations through to a successful conclusion.’

‘The Shoosmiths team have the ability to call upon technical experts from a huge range of disciplines such as cryptocurrency, maritime law, litigation, or cross border issues. They will have a member in the team that knows the problem and can advise on how to solve it. This depth of experience is a unique selling point of the firm.’

‘Without fail, Shoosmiths has impressed us. The team has demonstrated their skills and dedication to client outcomes. Their soft skills in managing clients alongside managing processes is a credit to the firm.’

‘The Shoosmiths Hampshire team are extremely reliable, dependable, and well resourced. Whilst the Hampshire team have a regional focus, they truly provide a City service to their clients. Shoosmiths size also enables them to commit time and resources to bring a transaction to a successful completion.’

‘Lisa Sigalet is extremely knowledgeable and is very supported by her team of solicitors. Lisa has great interpersonal skills and manages expectations very well. She’s always a pleasure to work with.’

‘Emma Livesey is an excellent senior solicitor. Her ability to break down and explain very difficult legal concepts is unmatched.’

‘Sean Wright was exceptional to deal with. He found and delivered solutions, and he went the extra mile. Special mention should also go to Laura Austin, who was extremely diligent and timely in her communications. She was a star with coordinating the transaction through the inevitable twists and turns.’

Key clients

Shareholders of CLC Group

Nobody’s Child

Charles Taylor

BGF

Ten Entertainment group plc

Dukes Education

Rotala Group Limited

KBC Advanced Technologies Limited

LDC Limited

Honda

Peugeot Citroen Vauxhall

Work highlights

  • Acted for LDC on the acquisition of the parent company of Message Direct Limited.
  • Acted for a company on its £287m takeover by the US private equity firm Trive Capital Partners LP.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1

With an esteemed presence across tech, retail, energy and mobility industries, Shoosmiths LLP operates for a plethora of clients that encompasses large corporates, public companies, private equity houses and venture capital firms. On the corporate side, Sanjeev Sharma leads the team with his wide-ranging experience that includes multi-jurisdictional mandates, while Thames Valley office leader Nina Smith frequently handles matters pertaining to sell side mandates, buy and build acquisitions and a variety of investments. On the commercial side, Nick Holland heads up the group, with his particular capabilities in global outsourcing transactions. Transactional practitioner Fiona Teague is routinely entrusted by a stable of blue chip multinational clients for advice on commercial issues such as outsourcing transactions. Ami Bhatt is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Sanjeev Sharma; Nick Holland

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Reliability and completeness of advise is key with Shoosmiths. They understand the requirements and meet it efficiently.’

‘Their prompt and no-frills approach is refreshing.’

Key clients

Pareto Facilities Management Limited

Reliance Brands

Lionfish Litigation Finance Limited

NVM Private Equity

Ramudden Global UK Limited (Chevron Traffic Management)

LDC (Managers) Limited

Kapow Primary Limited

Treun Capital Limited

TPA Capital LLP

Bergman & Beving

Downing LLP

BGF

Weetabix Limited

Aerial Direct Limited

Roofoods Ltd (Deliveroo)

Bandai Namco Amusement Europe Ltd

Asahi UK Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised LDC (Managers) Limited on the acquisition of the parent company of Thames Valley Headquartered, Message Direct Limited.
  • Acted for NVM Private Equity and the other shareholders of Thames Valley based Pareto, on the sale to Swiss based Pictet Investments.
  • Advised Reliance Brands on its joint venture with Superdry in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 1

Advising investors and investee companies on enterprise investment schemes (EIS) and venture capital trust-compliant investments is at the core of Shoosmiths LLP‘s tax offering in Reading, with the team’s client roster consisting of multi-national corporates, serial investors, owner-managed-businesses and commercial property investors. Daniel Kennedy has vast expertise in the tax aspects of acquisitions, disposals, lettings, and the development of commercial and residential property. Practice head Tom Wilde is particularly adept at advising on tax-efficient investments, reorganisations and exits, ensuring compliance with the enterprise investment scheme (EIS) and venture capital trust (VCT) regimes, often assisting companies and individuals with one-off business transactions and compliance issues.

Practice head(s):

Tom Wilde

Other key lawyers:

Daniel Kennedy; Kate Garcia

Testimonials

‘Clear, concise and straightforward advice, efficient work delivered promptly, and a friendly, responsive service.’

‘Very good availability of our lead partner, Tom Wilde, who deals with all matters swiftly even at the busiest times, and as efficiently for us as possible.’

‘Highly responsive with advice delivered with real commercial application. Daniel Kennedy is simply stand out. ’

‘Daniel Kennedy is our go-to for all things real estate tax. He is head and shoulders above the rest of the property tax practitioners we have encountered. His excellent background and understanding of all things real estate ensures his advice has real commercial bite. Responsive, pragmatic, sensible and easily understood advice. An absolutely excellent operator.’

‘The team is partner-led; they are always in the detail and everything delivered by associates is thoroughly checked. The team demonstrates exceptional expertise in the area of VCT and S/EIS investments (both investor and company side) and are unequivocally market leading. ’

‘Tom Wilde is an exceptional lawyer and market leader in the corporate tax space. He is uniquely academic, but very commercial and thoroughly understands the intersection between all areas of corporate tax and HMRC policy & implementation.’

‘Excellent market knowledge of all incentive programmes used throughout a company lifecycle. Proactive team with good relationships across the market.’

Key clients

Octopus Investments Limited

Laverock Therapeutics Limited

Beringea LLP

Gresham House Asset Management Limited

StudentCrowd Limited

INGKA Centres Services AB

Leftfield Logistics III Limited

North Atlantic Value GP 5 LLP

EG Group Limited

Maven Capital Partners UK LLP

Puma Private Equity

Calculus Capital Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Octopus Investments Limited on the EIS and VCT eligibility of its lead role in the $13.9 million Series A funding investment into the green technology company Puraffinity.
  • Advised INGKA (the real estate arm of IKEA) on the real estate tax aspects of its £145 million acquisition of the Churchill Square shopping centre in Brighton.
  • Advised Leftfield Logistics III Limited on the corporate tax aspects of their £30 million acquisition of the entire share capital of the owner of a significant logistics facility.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Hampshire Tier 1

Praised for its ‘wealth of experience and knowledge’, the team at Shoosmiths LLP is particularly strong in acting for clients in the automotive, IT, and technology sectors. Spearheading the practice, Jonathan Smart is located in Solent; he regularly acts for clients such as Honda and Volkswagen Group. Luke Coleborn is ‘an excellent lawyer’ who advises on various shareholder disputes, negligence claims, and breaches of warranties. Shelley White and Laura Clark are also key members of the team; White is recommended for high-value commercial disputes, while Clark has experience with multijurisdictional contractual disputes.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Smart

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team are extremely dedicated, and they work around the clock to get the best outcomes for their clients.’

‘Luke Coleborn is an excellent lawyer who works tirelessly for his clients.’

‘The team’s strengths lie in their proven track record of success in handling complex commercial litigation matters. Their strong reputation in the automotive and technology sectors distinguishes them from competitors.’

‘I would recommend Jonathan Smart. He is bright and a good team leader, directing strategy and considering the merits of a case. He makes sure that work is delegated to the appropriate level of his team. He is extremely user-friendly and manages his clients well.’

‘The wealth of experience and knowledge within the team is phenomenal. They are truly able to deal with the full gamut of commercial litigation.’

‘Jon Smart is an exceptional lawyer whose knowledge and commercial acumen means that he is a force to be reckoned with.’

‘Shelley White is a meticulous and extremely knowledgeable lawyer with a proven track record of getting good results for clients.’

‘Laura Clark is a delight to work with. Instructions are clear, detailed, and helpful. She is responsive to queries.’

Key clients

Volkswagen Group United Kingdom Limited

Hewlett Packard

Three Mobile

Honda Motor Europe

Peugeot Citroen Group

Mercedes Benz

McDonalds

Nissan

London Electric Vehicle Company

RAC

Telefonica

Tesco Mobile

Work highlights

  • Acting for the claimant in a high-value claim for breach of fiduciary duties arising from a hack of digital cryptocurrency assets worth in excess of £3.5bn.
  • Defending an automotive company from a $19m claim in the High Court.
  • Acting for a multinational home appliance manufacturer in a £10m contract dispute.

Employment > Employment: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP handles complex employment issues including TUPE, post-termination restrictions, immigration, IR35, employee data and employee tax. Practice head Gwynneth Tan comes highly recommended by clients as ‘dedicated to ensuring no detail goes overlooked and always prioritises her clients’ satisfaction’. ‘Exceptional employment lawyer’ Simon Fennell has an established reputation representing automotive sector clients and assists with the full range of both contentious and non-contentious employment matters.

Practice head(s):

Gwynneth Tan

Other key lawyers:

Simon Fennell; Amy Frost; Jessica Pearson; Siobhan Atkin; Navi Atwal

Testimonials

‘Amy Frost, Gwynneth Tan, and Jessica Pearson possess distinct yet equally valuable skill sets. Amy exhibits both a wealth of knowledge and a calm demeanour. Gwynneth is dedicated to ensuring no detail goes overlooked and always prioritises her clients’ satisfaction. Jessica has a remarkable ability to connect with people and keep them at ease.’

‘Simon Fennell is my go to employment lawyer, I wouldn’t go anywhere else. His knowledge level is second to none but also has the commercial and pragmatic element that is needed for a very busy in-house GC with very little time! ’

‘Amy Frost is the complete package. Having worked with her on several cases, I have always been struck by her steadfast determination to always achieve the best possible result for the client no matter the circumstances. Her creativity and ability to think outside the box are undoubtedly her greatest strengths. You want her in your corner when defending difficult Tribunal claims. ’

‘The Shoosmiths employment team are known for their professionalism, extensive knowledge, and exceptional responsiveness.’

‘They consistently prioritize providing commercially-focused advice that balances risk and delivers practical solutions. I consider them the most effective and reliable employment law firm I have worked with throughout my whole career.’

‘Their client-centric approach sets them apart. They take the time to understand your specific needs and develop tailored solutions, all while maintaining clear and consistent communication.’

‘Their focus is on building long-term relationships built on trust and exceptional service.’

‘Simon Fennell stands out as an exceptional employment lawyer due to a unique combination of qualities that set him apart from his peers.’

Key clients

The White Company (UK) Limited

Ten Entertainment Group

University of Northampton

BEN – Motor and Allied Trades Benevolent Fund

Apparel Brands Limited

Back Market UK Limited

Volkswagen Group

Nissan Motor (GB)

Renault Europe Group

Scania (Great Britain)

Playground Games

Fossil (UK)

Ann Summers

FutureLearn

Canal & River Trust

Keysoe International Limited

Waam3D Limited

Full Support Healthcare Limited

Design Reality Limited

Solifi Ltd

Shaw&Scott

Electrolux plc

Engineering Industry Construction Board (ECITB)

Coopervision

WeWork International

Tingdene Group

Billing Finance

Red Helix Ltd

The Francis Crick Institute

Key Media UK Limited

Everyman Media

Motorway Online

Bambino Mio

Premfina

Aeropak Chemical Products Limited

Shaw+Scott

Socitm Advisory

Brandon Hall Hotel

Hughes Network Systems Limited

Mirakl Limited

Black Box Network Services Limited

The Ice Cream Alliance

Equita Limited

Mintec Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised The White Company in connection with the successful defence of tribunal claims and strategic advice in connection to the negotiations of contract terms for senior executives.
  • Advising Everyman media group in connection with the application of TUPE regarding the acquisition of two cinemas, training of the Operations Group and strategic advice to the People Team.

Employment > Employment: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1

Full service firm Shoosmiths LLP is sought out by clients for its ability to handle complex Employment Tribunal cases, senior executive exits, and trade union and industrial relations matters, in addition to a range of other issues. The employment team is particularly praised by clients for its ‘expert combination of legal knowledge and commercial drivers’. Kevin McCavish, who is notably well-versed in the financial services sector, and Jonathan Naylor, who is pre-eminent within the tech and logistics sectors, jointly spearhead the group. Michelle Morgan demonstrates proficiency in managing senior exits.

Practice head(s):

Kevin McCavish; Jonathan Naylor

Other key lawyers:

Michelle Morgan; Alex Lloyd

Testimonials

‘I have nothing but positive things to say about the team. The team can cover all elements of employment law and do so with an expert combination of legal knowledge and commercial drivers.’

‘I must sing the praises of Jonathan Naylor. No matter how difficult the case, Jonathan is able to approach it with objectivity and good humour.’

‘Provide commercial, pragmatic, relevant and timely solutions that are tailored to our business and our needs.’

‘Jonathan Naylor – friendly and approachable, ability to assimilate information quickly and provide effective advice. Nothing is too much trouble, I always feel important, even though I know he has many other clients demanding his time.

‘Alex Lloyd – a recent addition to the team working with us, but in the same way as Jonathan, Alex makes everything easy to understand; he is efficient, and commercial.’

Key clients

DXC Technology

Calor Gas Limited

The National Trust

Kuehne + Nagel Limited

Pharm. Research Associates (UK) Limited (PRA Health Sciences)

Jacobs UK Limited

ColArt International Holdings Limited

Hewlett Packard Enterprise

IW Group Services (UK) Limited (formerly Regus Group)

The Curve Group

Mabey Holdings Limited

Proximity Data Centres

BPP Professional Education Group

Chronomics Limited

Pharmacosmos UK Limited

Trivium London Consulting Limited

Bang & Olufsen

Chevron Group

Centralis Group

Amp Energy Renaissance UK Limited

University College of Estate Management

Verifile Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Kuehne & Nagel Limited in relation to their employment tribunal caseload across the UK.
  • Advising Churchill Group on becoming an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
  • Acted for HP Inc UK Limited in a successful defence of unfair dismissal and discrimination claims by Claimant who sought £2.5m in damages.

Employment > Health and safety Tier 1

With a ‘wealth of experience’, Shoosmiths LLP is highly regarded for its experience advising high-profile clients across the spectrum of health and safety matters. The team is led by Birmingham-based Hayley Saunders, following the retirement of Roy Tozer last year, and boasts both contentious and non-contentious advisory expertise, particularly in sectors such as defence, automotive, healthcare, construction and manufacturing. Charles Arrand, based in Milton Keynes, is an experienced regulatory crime practitioner, familiar with a broad array of health and safety investigations, prosecutions, inquests and inquiries. Philip Ryan, in the Thames Valley, advises clients, ranging from large corporates to SMEs, on serious and fatal accidents including prosecution and defence, as well as assisting with risk strategy. Joanne Sear, also in the Thames Valley, has a strong practice in inquests, as well as health and safety compliance. Rubina Zaidi, based in Milton Keynes, regularly assists regulatory bodies in health and safety prosecutions, as well as defending these.

Practice head(s):

Hayley Saunders

Testimonials

‘Strong team at partner and senior associate level. Good use of technology.’

‘Joanne Seer was very helpful and on top of practicalities.’

‘This team has a very strong presence in the region and nationally. The team has a fantastic collaborative ethos. They listen to clients, learn what matters to them and then try to genuinely deliver what is necessary. In my experience case management and client care is second to none.’

‘All the individuals in the team are grounded, approachable and willing to do everything necessary. There is a fantastic collaborative ethos – something quite unique.’

‘The team make it very easy to work with them and obtain resolutions by using modern technology to ensure that meetings can be held that are just as effective if you are in a hotel on the other side of the world or in an office with them.’

‘They are willing to adapt and use technology that clients use for sharing case information to make it less onerous on the client to have to learn how to use their system.’

‘The team have a wealth of experience and knowledge of the sector in which we operate, there is always someone available at short notice to at least understand your immediate concern and give quick reassurance and advice, ahead of a more formal meeting at a suitable time for all.’

‘The team are friendly and approachable and give sound reasoned decisions so you feel comfortable in the action you will take going forward.’

Key clients

Chubb Insurance

HDI Gerling

Work highlights

  • Advising an electrical retailer on the health and safety operations at one of its warehouses, including conducting an investigation into the third-party operator whose employees were clearly acting unsafely and failing to report incidents.
  • Acted for the regulator in the prosecution of a large organisation following a fatal accident involving an employee hit by a reversing vehicle during unloading operations in 2019.
  • Providing several sessions of mid-level management safety and cultural and behavioural awareness training for factory personnel at a construction products manufacturer across several sites in the UK, alongside Eversheds Sutherland and Juice Learning.

Employment > Pensions Tier 1

The pensions team at Shoosmiths LLP is well regarded for its wide-ranging expertise in scheme mergers, restructures and closures, buy-in projects, wind-ups, rule amendments and GMP equalisation. The practice has a tripartite leadership under the ‘exceptional’ Heather Chandler, based in Milton Keynes, Suzanne Burrell, based in Thames Valley and described as ‘one of the best’, and Tracey Hemingway, ‘an excellent advisor’, in Solent. The team regularly advises trustees of occupational schemes and provides support to employers regarding defined contribution schemes. The practice also has strength in scheme security agreements and trustee compliance with data legislation, leveraging support from the firm’s wider banking and data protection teams. Associate Sarah Jenkins is ‘technically extremely strong’ and has experience assisting trustees with a multitude of scheme matters.

Practice head(s):

Heather Chandler; Suzanne Burrell; Tracey Hemingway

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Heather Chandler is an exceptional stand-out partner. Approachable, extremely knowledgeable and very helpful with a calm and friendly manner and a good sense of humour.’

‘They are great business partners and not only provide excellent legal advice, but tailor their advice to take account of the commercial realities faced by our businesses. The team are agile and collaborative.’

‘Tracey Hemmingway is an excellent advisor, responsive, commercial and pragmatic.’

‘Great team, easy to contact and response times are very good. Routine matters are dealt with efficiently.’

‘Heather Chandler’s advice is pertinent and practical. We can rely and act on that advice.’

‘Sarah Jenkins has a real eye for detail and is technically extremely strong’.

‘Suzanne Burrell is arguably one of the best if not the best legal partners I have worked with. Extremely accessible, knowledgeable and responsive and with a personable style that makes her a delight to work with.’

‘Suzanne Burrell has always helped guide us through many a tricky issue.’

Key clients

Trustees of Kesslers Group Pension Plan

Trustees of the RNIB Retirement Benefits Plan

Hewlett Packard

Trustees of the Kesslers Group Pension Scheme

Central England Co-operative Society

Trustees of Bank Leumi Pension Scheme

Trustees of Gieves Group Retirement Benefits Scheme

Trustees of Marshall Group Executive Pension Plan

Trustees of the 3M Pension and Life Assurance Scheme

J & E Hall Pension Scheme

AAF-McQuay UK Pension Plan

Lundbeck Limited

Cargill PLC

Trustees of the CIBC Retirement Savings Plan

Archer Daniels Midland

Deutz Retirement Benefits Plan Trustees

Motor Insurers Bureau (Members Club/Association)

Trustee of the National Pensions Trusts

Work highlights

  • Advised Cargill Plc on its acquisition of an energy utility plant to support its businesses and the TUPE transfer of employees.
  • Advised Master Trust Trustee on the transfer of a whole fund to new Master Trust Sponsor SEI.

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 1

The team fielded by Shoosmiths LLP possesses ‘impressive depth of resource, experience and skill’ and primarily focuses on leveraged and acquisition finance transactions, real estate financings and ABL transactions. Alexandra Triptree leads the banking and finance practice group in the south and is also the national head of structured finance; her practice focuses on highly structured leveraged lending and complex PE-backed transactions. National head Rebecca Mauleverer lends her expertise to the core areas of real estate finance, asset based lending and leveraged, venture debt and corporate lending issues.

Practice head(s):

Alexandra Triptree

Other key lawyers:

Rebecca Mauleverer; Suzanne Love; Sophie Tyler; Anna Richardson

Testimonials

‘The Shoosmiths banking team provides a multi office, multi resource approach ensuring availability of appropriate level lawyers at any one time.’

‘Alexandra Triptree is an outstanding lawyer with excellent all round knowledge providing real commercial advice in what can be a complex convoluted process.’

‘Rebecca Mauleverer and Alexandra Triptree are always both high energy, with high availability and work very effectively. They are real problem solvers who are able to cut through commercial issues.’

‘A practical and personable team, with deep technical skills and contacts.’

‘Shoosmiths team boasts impressive depth of resource, experience and skill ranging from newly qualified right through to Partner level. Their experience on a wide range of matters allows them to advise clients on a wide range of scenarios both from a technical and practical perspective.’

‘Experienced in working on cross-border transactions, proactive on process, always deliver value in a friendly manner.’

‘Rebecca Mauleverer leads by example, combining experience and friendliness with a keen commercial insight.’

Work highlights

  • Advised Cadence Equity Partners Limited on its entry into a highly structured £33m super senior/senior distribution facilities agreement to partially fund the acquisition of a majority stake in a leading tech solutions company.
  • Advised development finance institution British International Investment Plc on its multi-million-dollar financing for Jinnat Textile Mills.
  • Advised Rotala Group Limited on its financing of its acquisition of AIM-listed Rotala plc, a complex public to private transaction made available on a certain funds basis given Takeover Code requirements.

Insurance > Clinical negligence: claimant Tier 1

Able to draw upon strength across its Birmingham and Northampton offices, the Reading-based Shoosmiths LLP team is well-positioned to manage a diverse range of birth and brain injuries. Denise Stephens, who leads the group, possesses nearly thirty years of experience in the field, with a particular specialism in multi-million-pound catastrophic clinical negligence claims. Susan Prior is regarded as an ‘extremely experienced operator’ and Teri Gauge-Klein strengthens the practice with her vast litigation expertise.

Practice head(s):

Denise Stephens

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Large team; excellent strength and depth; very high-quality case load with numerous maximum severity cerebral palsy cases.’

‘Denise Stephens is a standout lawyer – a towering force undertaking the highest value and most complex cases – superb tactical skills, hugely courageous and dedicated to achieving the very best results for her clients.’

‘Shoosmiths have great quality work including complex catastrophic injury work. They have excellent client care.’

‘Denise Stephens is a powerhouse – very experienced in catastrophic injury claims and lovely to deal with.’

‘Shoosmiths have an incredibly experienced and passionate team who work hard for all of their clients in serious injury cases. They are very collaborative and committed to the work that they do.’

‘Denise Stephens is hugely experienced and a superb advocate for her clients. She is not afraid to take on cases with high degrees of complexity.’

‘The team specialises in non-catastrophic clinical negligence work. They are exceptional litigators. Their management of a case from inception to trial (or settlement) is confident, knowledgeable and robust. They are my go-to firm when asked for recommendations from personal and professional contacts.’

‘Susan Prior is an extremely experienced operator. She is a leader in the field.’

Work highlights

  • Recovered damages of £650k for a client who suffered from spinal scoliosis as a result of the defendant’s negligent failure to continue long-term follow up after he underwent spinal surgery at the age of 1.
  • Achieved a settlement of £900k for the dependant of a man who died after a negligent delay in diagnosing a leaking anastomosis following bowel surgery for cancer.
  • Acting for a client as a result of an alleged delay in diagnosing compartment syndrome in a young footballer which resulted in a severe and permanent tibial nerve injury.

Insurance > Personal injury: claimant Tier 1

Real estate > Commercial property: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP’s Milton Keynes-based team remains strong in the living sector, with a deal flow that includes house building, strategic land transactions, retirement and care, residential mobile home parks and hotel related matters. Lisa Williams leads the practice group, with demonstrable experience acting for park operators on the acquisition, development, letting and management of holiday and residential mobile home parks. Brian West leads the house builder team and lends his know-how to strategic land matters, particularly mixed-use developments. Chris George is a key name to note at associate level. Steve Wiltshire retired in October 2023.

Practice head(s):

Lisa Williams

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

Taylor Wimpey UK Limited

Vistry Group Plc

Volkswagen Group United Kingdom Limited

Mercedes-Benz Retail Group Limited

Revolution Bars Group Plc

Randstad UK Holding Ltd

Keysoe International Ltd (Full Support Healthcare)

Nickolls Properties Limited

Tilia Homes

Bellway

McCarthy Stone

Frontier Estates Limited

Tingdene (MJ) Limited

Capital Pleasure Boats Limited

Perseus Land and Developments

Scania (Great Britain) Limited

Storey Homes

Yusen Logistics (UK) Limited

Work highlights

Real estate > Commercial property: Hampshire Tier 1

Joanne McGuinness heads up the Solent based real estate team at Shoosmiths LLP, which is noted for handling the full range of issues relating to site acquisitions, promotion agreements, and complex regeneration projects. Mehar Patel is a go-to lawyer for property finance, drawing on his significant experience in acting for funds, borrowers, and lenders. Sara Hampson is a key name within the practice for housebuilders and landowners, particularly in relation to residential development projects. Jess Ready and Katrina Spolander are key members of the team; Ready is skilled with advising investment clients on their property portfolios, while Spolander often assists with retail sector matters.

Practice head(s):

Joanne McGuinness

Testimonials

‘They are always proactive with giving practical advice on current trends and changes in the law.’

‘Jessica Ready and Katrina Spolander are standout lawyers. They are both great communicators.’

‘Sara Hampson stands out for her high integrity and reliability.’

Key clients

Dukes Education Group

Cavendish Education Group

National Air Traffic Services Limited

Barratt Developments Limited

William Lacey Group Limited

Telefonica UK Limited

Porterbrook Leasing Company Limited

Hitachi Rail Limited

The Hamleys Group

McCarthy & Stone Retirement Lifestyles Limited

Wolverhampton City Council

Thurrock Borough Council

Almacantar Limited

The Estate Office Shoreditch

Marsh Corporate Services Limited

IKEA Properties Investments Limited

Roke Manor Limited

Hitachi Europe Limited

Lifeways Care Group

Civil Nuclear Police Authority

Seaward Properties Limited

London EV Company Limited

Taylor Wimpey UK Limited

West Midlands Transport Authority

Hallam Land Management Limited

Marpaul Hampshire Limited

Hundred Star Games Limited

Dama Retail UK Limited

Work highlights

  • Acting for a luxury retailer on a new lease of a flagship store in London.
  • Acting for Dukes Education Limited on the connected purchase of three separate property assets to be used in association with existing schools owned by the group.
  • Advised the Lifeways Group on the real estate aspects of its restructuring plan.

Real estate > Commercial property: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP harnesses its considerable bench strength to operate across the investment, living, automotive and energy sectors, with an established reputation in acting for significant clients on high-value investment projects and house building mandates. Steering the team is Nathan Rees, who is regularly engaged by a panoply of clients on large-scale investment work, acquisitions and financing transactions. Alan Corcoran leads the southern real estate offering, with an established presence in the investment and corporate occupancy fields, while Daniel Halstead acts for a myriad of clients spanning developers, funders, investors and operators in the living sector. In May 2023, Ben Pariser was appointed to head up the national housebuilding sector team, and Liz McKillop Paley, who focuses on investment and energy-related work, was promoted to partner. Marcus Devanny is another key name to note.

Practice head(s):

Nathan Rees

Testimonials

‘The speed of response and willingness to work within tight deadlines is very much appreciated and something that Shoosmiths have delivered for us on numerous occasions.’

‘The expert knowledge and detail provided by Shoosmiths is exceptional and makes them one of our go-to firms.’

‘Ben Pariser is an extremely good lawyer and someone who we trust wholeheartedly with delivering within timescales and with our needs at the forefront of the mind.’

‘Strong team with a willingness to roll their sleeves up.’

Key clients

Workspace Group plc

UKRO Property Holdings Limited

Conde Nast Holdings Limited

AIB (UK) Group plc

Vistry/Countryside Partnerships

Backhouse Housing

Taylor Wimpey UK Limited

The Third Space Group

Sovereign Centros

Conde Nast Publications Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising global publishing giant, Conde Nast Publications on the sale of its former HQ, 1 Hanover Square (formerly known as Vogue House) and the acquisition of new HQ space in the Adelphi building on London’s South Bank.
  • Advising the AIB (UK) Group plc on its provision of a purchase finance loan in connection with 2 PBSA blocks comprising around 1000 student beds in Bristol and Glasgow.
  • Acting for Vistry/Countryside Partnerships over a variety of matters including two brownfield sites, development partnering arrangements with registered providers and several strategic sites including a number of option and collaboration agreements.

Real estate > Environment and planning Tier 1

The team at Shoosmiths LLP is co-headed by Kirsten Hewson in Solent, and Charles Arrand in Milton Keynes. Their combined experience includes advising on nitrate neutrality requirements, highways and infrastructure matters, environmental offences, and mixed-use development schemes. Utilising the knowledge that she gained while working at the Environment Agency, Joanne Sears is ‘an excellent practitioner’ who specialises in regulatory and criminal matters; she is particularly recommended for pollution and nuisance investigations. Kayleigh Chapman is also noted for experience advising local authorities, developers, and landowners.

Practice head(s):

Kirsten Hewson; Charles Arrand

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team at Shoosmiths is really well embedded in the environmental sphere. Joanne Sears in particular is an excellent practitioner who brings her knowledge as a former Environment Agency lawyer to bear on the cases she is involved. She is exceptional at steering a course through choppy waters.’

‘The team is big enough and experienced enough to have dealt with almost any environmental issue which may emerge.’

‘Joanne Sear is excellent particularly when litigation is threatened or ongoing. Charles Arrand is a very experienced and steady lawyer particularly for big corporates who are faced with criminal proceedings.’

‘The team has been able to advise on a wide range of section 106 related issues, including the new BNG provisions. They have also helped with planning inquiries. The team has been excellent in terms of their professionalism and support.’

‘The responsiveness and professional support of Kayleigh Chapman has been excellent at all times. Her ability to articulate legal drafting for planning officers is really important.’

‘The team is pragmatic, detailed, and experienced.’

Key clients

Travel Sector Property Limited

Brenntag

St Modwen Properties Limited

Linnaeus Veterinary Limited

Buckland Development Limited

Grainger Plc

HN Butler Famrs

Roke Manor Limited

Churchill Retirement Living Limited

Lancaster City Council

The Land Trust

Wirral Growth Company

Packaged Living Limited

McCarthy & Stone Retirement Lifestyles Limited

Frontier Developments Limited

Enable Care Limited

Sigma Capital Property Limited

Hertsmere Borough Council

Work highlights

  • Advising Buckland Development Limited on the implementation of Welborne Garden Village.
  • Advising on a successful appeal against a civil penalty imposed under the F-Gas Regulations.
  • Advising a commercial landlord and property developer on compliance with environmental regulations, resulting in the forfeiture of a tenant’s lease.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP focuses on TMT issues arising out of the automotive space, with recent work including advising on IT supply chain agreements and advising on the provision of sector-specific software. Commercial head Robin Webb leads the team, in conjunction with Sebastian Price, who is a key name for all aspects of IT outsourcing, software licensing and development, IT systems acquisition, facilities management and electronic trading.

Practice head(s):

Robin Webb; Sebastian Price

Other key lawyers:

Matt Ward; Emily Utley

Key clients

Static Systems Group

The Third Space Group Limited

Jaguar Land Rover

Global Switch

IMS Evolve

Facit Data Systems Ltd

Volkswagen Group

Mercedes Benz

Nissan

Renault

Peugeot Citroen Vauxhall

Volkswagen Financial Services

The White Company

Close Brothers Plc

Honda

Travelodge

Work highlights

  • Negotiated and finalised a contract with Zellis UK Limited, their payroll calculation software provider.
  • Advising Global Switch on a variety of IT supply chain agreements.
  • Advised Charles Tyrwhitt on the contractual provisions for them to terminate its key IT managed services arrangements.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Birmingham Tier 1

Displaying specific specialisms in the automotive, finance and tech industries, the ‘very personable and diligent’ practice at Shoosmiths LLP has extensive experience in handling multi-jurisdictional M&A, corporate restructurings and sales of issued share capital. Notably, the group is expanding its expertise in the EV charging, fintech and healthtech spheres, with commercial head Simon McArdle providing expertise on the overlap between contract arrangements and AI. Alistair Hammerton heads the corporate offering, Ben Turner focuses on strategic acquisitions and group restructurings, whilst Alastair Peet is noted for his work with venture capital funds. Helen Burnell concentrates on sustainable infrastructure transactions, and Daniel Shilvock is also highlighted.

Practice head(s):

Alistair Hammerton; Simon McArdle

Other key lawyers:

Ben Turner; Alastair Peet; Daniel Shilvock; Helen Burnell; Rosie Hendon; Nick Little; Daniel Greatorex; Caroline Chester

Testimonials

‘Alistair Hammerton is exceptional from a technical and commercial perspective. He has a lot of deals under his belt,  and as a result, knows how to move a transaction along.’

‘A very personable and diligent team.’

‘Hard-working team that takes the time to understand client needs – its associate group is now very strong – Alastair Peet is a market leader, always available and has creative solutions to issues. Very reasonable fee structures.’

‘Alastair Peet is a standout partner. He has an exceptional attention to detail whilst making transactions happen within a tight time frame. He demonstrates great commercial acumen.’

‘The Shoosmiths corporate legal team focuses on your needs and outcomes. They bring a depth of knowledge and a thoughtful and practical approach to each stage of the corporate development journey.’

‘The team are open, good listeners who bring great advice and counsel. Trust is at the heart of a great deal and they have a collaborative style in shaping a deal. They set good expectations, meet deadlines and drive the process.’

‘Our experience with the Shoosmiths corporate team has been very good. They are responsive, cost-effective and work closely with each other to ensure pace is maintained on transactions.’

‘They work hard to identify solutions to known problems and have a good commercial awareness to deliver great client outcomes. In particular, I would name Alastair Peet, Marcus-Adam Tuck and Natalia Tombs as being a particularly effective team.’

Key clients

4D Capital Partners LLP

Alcentra Limited

Bright Pixel Capital

Business Growth Fund

Blackfinch Ventures

Britpart

BS Eaton

Carbon Quota Limited

Committed Capital

Cow Corner

Displayplan Holdings Limited

Edge Data Centres Holdings Limited

Evenlode

EV Chargers Ltd

EVC Asset Holdings Limited

FINTOP Capital

Form Ventures

Fosroc Holdings

GEMS Education

Global Critical Logistics

Gresham House

Hambro Perks

Heligan Group

Hellerman Tyton

Insurtech Gateway

Iron Mountain (UK) Plc

Livingbridge

Lopay

Mercia Investments

Midwest Electrical

MMC Ventures

Mutares

NorthEdge

Nurton Developments

Oasthouse Ventures Limited

Octopus Investments

Oxford Capital Partners

Project Ceres Bidco Limited

Proximity Data Centres

Restless

Rotala

Scaleup Capital Limited

Skycon Limited

Sustainability Group Limited

Telecom Group Ltd

Tokenovate

Triple Point

TSP Ventures

Waterstones

Weetabix

Wildanet Limited

Wrisk

Work highlights

  • Advised UK-based electric vehicle charging company, EV Chargers (EVC) on its series A fundraising of £165m of capital from funds managed by Denham Sustainable Infrastructure, an arm of global energy transition investment firm, Denham Capital.
  • Advised and acted for Cow Corner private equity and the management team on the sale of ISMS.online and subsequent reinvestment by certain managers into a new topco established by ECI Partners.
  • Advised the shareholders on an auction process for the sale of the entire issued share capital of Edge (an edge platform in the UK with ten carrier-neutral edge data centres) to nLighten UK Ltd (owned by nLighten HQ B.V. registered in Germany), a digital infrastructure platform of I Squared Capital (a leading global infrastructure investor).

Employment > Health and safety Tier 1

At Shoosmiths LLP, Hayley Saunders leads the ‘very approachable‘ team, which provides ‘superb and timely support, going that extra mile to ensure best outcomes’. It receives a regular stream of instructions from corporate clients, with niche safety expertise in sectors such as defence, construction, petrochemical and manufacturing. Saunders has an excellent practice which spans both contentious and non-contentious work. She is noted for her skill at handling investigations and prosecutions for manslaughter, and for her defence of many health and safety offences. In addition, she frequently provides compliance advice to various corporates. Senior associate Kirsty Hughes, who can explain complex legal issues in a straightforward way’, is also recommended. Roy Tozer is now a consultant at the firm.

Practice head(s):

Hayley Saunders

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Hayley Saunders – an exceptional lawyer in terms of knowledge of the law and practical understanding of clients’ business activities. Never forgets the human side of health and safety and the impact this has on individuals.’ 

‘Hayley offers practical advice and we haven’t asked a question she cannot answer. She cares deeply that her advice is useful and goes beyond simple legalities.’

‘Kirsty, like Hayley, is friendly, approachable and knowledgeable. She is not afraid to offer an opinion. She can explain complex legal issues in a straightforward way. They are a great team to work with.’ 

‘We have worked with Hayley Saunders for a number of years, offering good, sound, sensible and very understandable advice. ’

‘Hayley Saunders understands the needs of clients facing stressful health and safety investigations. She provides experienced and empathetic advice.’

‘What sets them apart from competitors is their deep industry knowledge, proactive problem-solving skills, and commitment to achieving favourable outcomes for clients.’

‘Hayley has impressed me with her diligence, attention to detail, and ability to deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines. She has a collaborative mindset and willingness to go the extra mile for us.’ 

‘What I value most in the team at Shoosmiths is their client-centric approach and unwavering commitment to excellence. They consistently demonstrate a genuine interest in understanding our business needs and priorities, tailoring their legal advice and solutions accordingly.

Work highlights

  • Advising a services provider in relation to an inquest arising out of the deaths of four people who were murdered by a person known to the authorities.
  • Advising a food manufacturing company in relation to the health and safety investigation into the amputation of an employee’s arm.
  • Advising an individual facing criminal allegations in response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 1

The ‘technically smart, commercial’ team at Shoosmiths LLP regularly advises lenders on a range of transactions, especially in asset-based lending. The firm also advises on leveraged and acquisition finance matters. Its work regularly involves cross-border elements. Jon Bew is the head of the team, whose experience includes asset-based, inventory and distribution finance. David Adams acts for borrowers and lenders in an array of financings, including pensions and education. Natalie Barnes is another noted member of the practice operating in the asset-based lending space.

Practice head(s):

Jon Bew

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘A very responsive and technically smart and commercial team.’

‘Jon Bew is technically smart and easy to talk with. He has excellent knowledge of the ABL market.’

‘ Always strong collaboration throughout a deal through to completion.’

‘Jon Bew & Natalie Barnes are excellent and its those key elements within each transaction where we need to find a way forward where both excel.’

Key clients

Shawbrook Bank Limited

Aurelius Finance Company Limited

IGF Business Credit Limited

HSBC Invoice Finance (UK) Limited

Close Brothers Invoice Finance Limited

Proximity Data Centres Limited

Arbuthnot Commercial Asset Based Lending Limited

ABN AMRO Asset Based Finance N.V., UK Branch

Investec Bank Plc

Hilco Capital

Work highlights

  • Advised Shawbrook Bank Limited in relation to an asset based lending agreement relating to £24,500,000 senior facilities to be provided to one of the UK’s leading electrical wholesalers.
  • Advised Aurelius Finance Company on their facilities to a highly regulated Irish borrower group.
  • Advised IGF Business Credit Limited in relation to an asset based facilities agreement, which included a £7,000,000 debt purchase facility and a £3,500,000 inventory facility to an international home and lifestyle company.

Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 1

‘Able to run a cross-disciplinary case’, Shoosmiths LLP regularly advises clients on matters spanning a wide array of sectors, including retail, financial services, construction, manufacturing, energy and leisure. The firm acts on major liquidations and administrations, including the administration of Wilko Limited. James Keates directs the practice, acting for banks, asset-based lenders, insolvency practitioners and company directors. Noted team member Aaron Harlow advises on administrations, restructurings and distressed acquisitions. Charlotte Duce bolsters the team’s strength in administration matters, advising major financial consultants acting as administrators.

Practice head(s):

James Keates

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Able to run a cross-disciplinary case, with strength in depth and teamwork which makes working with them very easy.’

‘The firm is very commercial – able to think laterally and find solutions to tricky legal matters, while being robust in the strength of the advice given to the IPs.’

‘Lee Sennett is very hard working, user-friendly and provider of sage, collected advice. He is calm under pressure.’

‘Aaron Harlow is extremely commercially minded and comfortable in fast paced negotiation situations which require a cool head.’

‘Aaron Harlow is a bright, approachable, commercial operator and a pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Interpath Limited

Teneo Financial Advisory Limited

RSM Restructuring Advisory LLP

Kroll Advisory Limited

FRP Trading Advisory LLP

RBS

Resolve Advisory Limited

BDO LLP

Alvarez & Marsal Europe LLP

Work highlights

  • Acted for PwC in their role as administrators of Wilko Limited, Wilko.com Limited, Wilkinson Hardware Stores Limited.
  • Advised Great Annual Savings Limited, a prominent North-East SME business in connection with a restructuring plan pursuant to part 26A of the Companies Act 2006.
  • Acted for PwC in connection with the administration of CK Realisations Limited (the company that was the successor business to and traded as Cath Kidston) and the disposal of the intellectual property and brand to Next plc.

Insurance > Clinical negligence: claimant Tier 1

The ‘stellar team’ at Shoosmiths LLP has ‘great communicators, who are highly knowledgeable’. Under the leadership of Phil Barnes, the first-rate team has an excellent reputation for its skill at handling high-value and complex claims such as birth, spinal and brain injury cases, as well as amputations. Kashmir Uppal has particular expertise in dealing with claims against ‘rogue surgeons’. Nicholas Tubb has considerable strength in spinal and  brain injuries, complicated birth injuries, as well as surgical errors. Natasha Read has a broad practice with substantial experience in a wide variety of neurological claims. Richard Bannister is another key contact who frequently works on cases involving fatal accidents, and other difficult issues such as delayed cancer diagnosis.

Practice head(s):

Phil Barnes

Other key lawyers:

Richard Banister; Natasha Read; Kashmir Uppal; Nicholas Tubb; Sharon Banga; James Wright; Pam Westwood; Dan O’Keeffe

Testimonials

‘I have dealt with Nick Tubb and his service has been nothing but exemplary. His knowledge and advice have been invaluable. His communication is fast, reliable and honest. His team work well under his instruction and I 100% trust and recommend his service.’

‘Sharon Banga – very skilled , incisive , pleasure to work alongside. Kashmir Uppal – intuitive , very skilled, great client relationships , pleasure to work alongside. Natasha Read – very personable , good communicator , very skilled , pleasure to work alongside.’

‘Phil Barnes, Nick Tubbs, James Wright and Natasha Read are standout shining lights in a highly impressive team. They can readily handle the most complex claims and issues. They are knowledgeable, articulate and empathetic. They work harder than any others lawyers in this field to deliver the best service feasible. ’

‘Kashmir Uppal has a very reassuring manner and coupled with her obvious knowledge, she has made a difficult process understandable and has given good / clear guidance. She has around her a team who are always polite and respectful towards us.’ 

‘Richard Bannister puts clients at eases, provides early and clear instructions to counsel and is skilled at achieving the right settlement as swiftly as possible.’

‘Phil Barnes heads up this strong clinical negligence team, is incredibly personable and hard working. He is not afraid of taking a difficult legal point. Natasha Read’s work is incredibly well organised, she works collaboratively with counsel and works hard for her clients to achieve the best possible results.

‘Phil Barnes is an excellent lawyer and leads his team with finesse. Nicholas Tubb is very experienced serious injury lawyer who works hard to get the best outcome for his clients. Natasha Read is impressive.’

‘The team is one of the big players in Birmingham and the West Midlands. The team is led by Phil Barnes, who is one of the leading practitioners in the country.’

Work highlights

  • Represented the claimants in a landmark case in the Supreme Court addressing the vexed issue of whether a person who witnesses the death of or serious injury to a loved one as a result of an illness that proper medical treatment would have prevented can bring a claim as a secondary victim.
  • Acting for client who developed cerebral palsy as a consequence of the admitted negligence of the defendant hospital trust.
  • Acting in a complex, high value claim of a woman in her early 30s, without children, whose cervical smear test was negligently misinterpreted.

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

Operating out of Birmingham, the Shoosmiths LLP team acts as a one-stop-shop for IP-related matters. It is well-versed in technology, life sciences and corporate transactions. The firm is in demand when it comes to disputes, advising retail, food, software, sports and manufacturing companies. Andrew Brennan, the head of practice, advises on contentious IP cases and also transactional matters.  Eloise di Pasqua compounds the IP litigation capabilities of the broader practice, acting for individuals and companies in the crypto, sport and automotive spaces.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Brennan

Other key lawyers:

Eloise di Pasqua; Victoria Bentley; Dominic Murphy; Nichola Jenkins

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths is very competent and practical, delivering a legally thoughtful service. They are willing to be tough, but always based on solid legal arguments.’

‘Andrew Brennan and Victoria Bentley are an excellent double-team.’

‘Eloise di Pasqua is reliable.’

‘High quality highly experienced teams are put together to support potentially quite complex intellectual property management positions. The team routinely identifies the primary areas for work and a range of solutions and sensible advice is provided. ’

‘The individuals are genuinely interested in the work being undertaken that relates to the advice. This interest in context helps to generate advice that we can more easily implement and that is fit for purpose.’

‘A collaborative approach and a team that clearly benefits from effective communication channels and networks.’

‘I have been impressed with Antony Craggs and Dominic Murphy, who is open, considered and strategic with his attitudes, approach and delivery.’

Key clients

AK Retail

Reliance Brands

Next Retail Plc

Jaguar LandRover

Topps Tiles Plc

Checkatrade

Volkswagen Group

LifeArc

Capita Plc

University of Nottingham

Integral Powertrain Ltd

Lundbeck

Pharmacosmos

Oxilio Ltd

Whitbread

Stonegate Pubs

Work highlights

  • Advising Dr Craig Wright in defending high profile claim by brought by COPA in regard to Bitcoin.
  • Advising Reliance Brands in relation to the establishment of an IP joint venture between Superdry and Reliance and the licensing of the Superdry brand in India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.
  • Advising Topps Tiles in its long running dispute against repeat infringer Tiles Direct.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 1

The Shoosmiths LLP lawyers support clients on matters spanning the array of IT and telecoms. The firm advises on IT transactions, cryptocurrencies, AI and fintech. Its clientele includes automotive, consumer goods, finance and technology companies at the national and international level. Joe Stephenson leads the team in Birmingham, specialising in tech procurement including outsourcings. Craig Armstrong is a noted team member, advising automotive, manufacturing and telecoms company. Ben Gardner joined the practice from Pinsent Masons LLP at the start of 2024.

Practice head(s):

Joe Stephenson

Other key lawyers:

Craig Armstrong; Ben Gardner; Nichola Jenkins

Testimonials

‘Great team for commercial contract work – thorough, sensible and pragmatic approach. They listen to in-house needs and respond.’

‘Shoosmiths’ resource pool allows us to flex our in-house team to meet demands, while still utilising lawyers that have worked with us previously and know our business. They feel like an extension of our team.’

‘Shoosmiths’ lawyers have make a real effort to understand the business and offer pragmatic, commercially-minded advice that is relevant to the client.’

‘The team are very knowledgeable on all areas within Tech.’

Key clients

Stonegate Pub Company

Jaguar Land Rover

Volkswagen Group

The Estée Lauder Companies

CDW

Volkswagen Financial Services

Three Mobile

Deliveroo

Central Co-op

Dignity

PremFina

Morgan Advanced Materials

Scania

Molson Coors

Midcounties Co-op

Motorway.co.uk

Nissan

Work highlights

  • Advised Jaguar Land Rover on its £800m global digital transformation project with Tata Consultancy Services.
  • Advised on the Dr Craig Wright v The Crypto Open Patent Alliance litigation involving the genesis and authorship of the Bitcoin White Paper, in which Dr Craig Wright asserts he is Satoshi Nakamoto, author of that paper.
  • Advised Stonegate Pub Company, the UK’s largest pub company, on its launch of a new VIP digital loyalty platform App, “MiXR”.

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP fields a team with considerable depth of expertise in leveraged and acquisition finance, in addition to key strength in venture debt financing across both local and national markets. The group is active across numerous sectors, including real estate, healthcare, and infrastructure. Anna Robson, who leads the team, has a particular specialism in venture debt, and acts on behalf of numerous prominent clients in the space. Robson is supported by Charlotte Thomas, who covers leveraged and acquisition finance, and Kat Raanan, whose practice includes a broad range of corporate lending transactions.

Practice head(s):

Anna Robson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The banking and finance team at Shoosmiths provides an excellent national service, ensuring appropriate resource is applied according to circumstance.’

‘Charlotte Thomas has worked closely with me over a long period of time and continues to provide excellent and commercially astute advice when advising on complex and convoluted scenarios.’

‘The approach of the team is one of strong service through balancing legal and commercial awareness. Giving a balanced view of risks/challenges and putting the underlying transaction uppermost, thereby giving clients the ability to make informed decisions.’

‘Anna provides a great service. She is incredibly well known in the Yorkshire market, has a fantastic reputation as an approachable, quality operator. An ability to relate to all kinds of clients means she has an ability to work on all kinds of transaction types and sizes.’

‘Kat Raanen is a very strong operator and has all the hallmarks of a mainstay of the Yorkshire market for years to come.’

‘Extremely responsive team who take a huge amount of pride in delivering exceptional client services.’

‘Able to focus on the key points and execute a transaction in a tight timetable.’

‘The team are very knowledgeable across all levels of the team, and importantly are easy to work with. The team also provide valuable market knowledge on each transaction, which is important when accessing what is and isn’t a market standard request.’

Key clients

HSBC UK Bank plc

Shawbrook Bank Limited

Latus Health Ltd

Churchill Group Holdings Limited

Aero Services Global Group Limited

Hilco Capital Limited

Bowland Inns & Hotels Limited

Wrisk Limited

Parabellum Investments Limited

The Great Annual Savings Company Limited

Enact III LP

Work highlights

  • Advised HSBC UK Bank plc in relation to the acquisition of Unihomes, backed by an LDC minority investment.
  • Advised Latus Health in relation to acquisition facilities to fund the acquisition of ELAS Occupational Health, Sound Advice Health & Safety Limited and The Industrial Diagnostics Company.
  • Advised Hilco Capital Limited on its £25m borrowing base lending facility for Superdry.

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 1

Shoosmiths LLP's broad expertise covers building safety matters, insolvency cases and advice on disputes arising out of residential development projects, including rights of light, easements and covenants. In this regard, the firm works with a plethora of commercial developer and investor clients, hotels and retailers. Richard Symonds heads up the Leeds-based team and works extensively with clients in the living and hotels sectors, while also specialising in the Building Safety Act 2022. Matthew Lonergan manages corporate occupiers’ property portfolios and handles any related contentious matters. Recent team changes include the departure of Michael Gaughan in August 2023, as well as the arrival of Thomas Freeman from Irwin Mitchell in January 2024.

Practice head(s):

Richard Symonds

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Proactive on the client’s behalf. Exploring all possible angles. Very good at drawing the relevant strands and supporting evidence together.’

‘Richard Symonds – sound and commercial analysis of multi-issue disputes and skilled in advocating the client’s position to secure the best possible results.’

Key clients

Asda

Bensons for Beds

Buccleuch Property

Canal & River Trust

Conegate Limited

Currys/Dixons

Doncaster Borough Council

Empire Property Group

Euro Garages

Extra MSA

Feldberg Capital

Halfords Limited

Highwood Developments

Hill Partnership Limited

Holland & Barrett

Invesco

Kloeckner Metals/ASD

Mercedes Benz

Moorfield Group

Muse Developments Limited

Packaged Living

Reigate and Banstead Borough Council

Roomzzz Limited

Sports.Direct.com

Stay City UK Ltd

The Restaurant Group

Total Energies Marketing UK Limited

Travelodge Hotels Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Travelodge Hotels Limited on a dispute with a landlord/neighbouring owner who was conducting works to their retained parts in an unsafe manner that was prejudicing the hotel and its guests.
  • Advising on a wide range of disputes arising out of Extra MSA Group’s investment and development portfolio and out of the sale of the business, including contractual disputes and issues relating to adverse possession and prescription, plus asset management issues concerning restrictive covenants on letting, insolvency issues and breach of user provisions.
  • Advising The Moorfield Group on a number of development constraints and risk management matters.

Crime, fraud and licensing > Licensing Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP plays an active role in the retail, leisure, and transport sectors, and has experience which encompasses all licensable activities, licensing applications, and contentious matters. Philip Ryan combines commercial acumen with regulatory and licensing expertise. Kirsty Hughes has amassed considerable experience in licensing issues and represents clients in Magistrates’ courts and before licensing committees.

Practice head(s):

Philip Ryan; Kirsty Hughes

Other key lawyers:

Elaine Rayner

Testimonials

‘The team have great experience in working with large chains that have licensing issues on a local, regional and national level. They can represent national clients while also having a proper focus on the local issues that are key to licensing decisions.’ 

‘Dedicated team to deal with our business needs. Great depth of knowledge of our sector of business.’ 

‘The team have a personal relationship with us and takes ownership over the venues that we use for licensing.’ 

‘We have worked with Shoosmiths for almost 20 years now and have always found them efficient, timely and trustworthy. I would gladly recommend Shoosmiths to anyone who wanted advice.’

‘Elaine Rayner has been our business partner throughout and her expertise in the area of licensing has been invaluable over the years. She is efficient, hardworking and a great partner to our business.’ 

Key clients

Central Co-op Limited

Insomnia Cookies

McDonald’s Restaurants Limited

Ikea

WeWork

Associated British Foods Plc (and subsids)

Work highlights

Employment Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP is particularly skilled in corporate and individual immigration, employee data protection, IR35, and trade union matters. In Nottingham, practice head Michael Briggs is vastly experienced in absence and performance issues, HR-related data protection, sensitive senior exits, and whistleblowing matters. Briggs is also praised as ‘knowledgeable and professional’, while Charlotte Staples’ caseload encompasses post-termination restrictions, redundancy programs, and restructures.

Practice head(s):

Michael Briggs

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They are a very commercially focused team, they are able to give great advice, are very responsive, and work as an extension to the HR Team.’

‘Their service and advice are very professional, helpful, and clear. They are also very responsive to emails/questions. Shoosmiths now offer clients a number of ways to educate themselves further on key topics, such as webinar events on legal updates. These are highly professional and well-run, putting across the key information in a clear and concise way.’

‘They demonstrate a genuine concern and interest about us and what we do. Our key contact ensures that we get appropriate support from the right people. Their response is always timely and they are genuinely nice people to work with.

‘Their genuine concern and interest leaves us always feeling like their most important client. They do what they say and well.’

‘They are exceptionally knowledgeable, and are able to put this in context with practical advice.’

‘Michael Briggs is exceptional at relationship management as well as knowledgeable, professional, and always delivers.’

Key clients

Porterbrook Leasing Company Limited

ATS Euromaster Limited

Coloplast Limited

Feldberg Capital UK Ltd

Feldberg Capital GmbH

Plaion GmbH

Free Radical Design Limited

Sandvik Holdings Limited and Sandvik Limited

Nottingham Trams Limited

Endless LLP

Saint-Gobain Interior Solutions

NATL Amusements Limited

SC Johnson Professional UK Limited

British Retail Consortium

John Deere Group of companies

TTI EMEA Limited

Boots UK

NATL National Amusements Limited

E-Tag Fixings Limited

Neal Brothers Limited

Leonard Design Limited

Albumedix Limited

DHL Services Limited

Cope Children’s Trust

ProPharma Group MIS Limited

Sirdar Holdings

DMC Group Plc

Novozymes UK Limited / Novozymes AS

Verisec Limited

Work highlights

  • Represented Coloplast Limited on Employment Tribunal and Employment Appeal Tribunal litigation.
  • Advised ATS Euromaster Ltd and its UK group companies on all aspects of HR and employment law-related issues within the workplace.
  • Advised Feldberg Capital UK Limited / Feldberg Capital GmbH on the the acquisition of 8 Bloomsbury Street in the West End of London, and the associated employment-related/TUPE matters involved in the transaction.

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 2

The Nottingham-based banking and finance team at Shoosmiths LLP is highlighted for its corporate banking, as well as acquisition, leveraged, and real estate finance capabilities. Splitting his time between Nottingham and Birmingham, practice head David Adams acts for both borrowers and lenders, and is skilled at asset-based, education, and pension finance. In Nottingham, Jessika Thumpston is another key team member, and often handles real estate finance matters.

Practice head(s):

David Adams

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

Shawbrook Bank Limited

Goldberg Kohn

Santander Bank plc

Close Brothers Invoice Finance

Secure Trust Bank Plc

Rotala plc

Key Media UK Limited

Novuna

First Southern National Bank

Investec Bank plc

Work highlights

  • Acted for Shawbrook Bank Limited on a facilities agreement with S-Ventures Acquisitions Ltd in order to support the acquisition of Hero UK Ltd.
  • Acted for Shawbrook Bank Limited on the acquisition of independent motorbike dealership Premier Bikes.
  • Acted for Rotala plc on the amendment and restatement of existing facilities, supporting improvements to its business operations in the Midlands area.

Real estate > Planning and environment Tier 2

The East Midlands Shoosmiths LLP planning team routinely assists large national housebuilders with the full spectrum of planning issues, ranging from planning applications to advising on potential risks of legal challenges. Will Thomas leads the team and is a well-regarded planning solicitor who can assist with appeals, CPOs, and site promotions. Tim Willis has niche planning litigation expertise, and has recently brought cases before the Court of Appeal.

Practice head(s):

Will Thomas

Other key lawyers:

Tim Willis; Paige Bedward

Key clients

Persimmon Homes

Richborough Estates

Central England Co-op

Boots UK

Bellway Homes

Feldberg Capital

Barwood Land

Parker Strategic Land

Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames

Walsall Housing Group

IM Properties

Safestore Properties

Nurton Developments

O&H Properties

Westlake Properties

Work highlights

  • Advised land promoters concerning the promotion of land in Leicestershire for the development of up to 5000 new houses.
  • Advised the Borough of Kingston on the planning and compulsory purchase order required for the £850m regeneration of the Cambridge Road Estate.
  • Acted for Boots concerning legal planning issues impacting the development of the Nottingham Enterprise Zone.

Corporate and commercial > Venture capital Tier 2

Headed by the Birmingham-based Alastair Peet, Shoosmiths LLP’s venture and development capital team advises on the entire life cycle of company’s business, overseeing incorporation, through to seed and later series, alongside exit strategies. The firm is especially active in the tech space, assisting clients ranging from angels and family offices to VC houses, with Peet predominantly focusing on venture and growth capital matters. From Thames Valley, Tom Wilde and Sanjeev Sharma specialise in implementing tax efficient investments and routinely support management teams and listed companies, whilst London-based Steve Barnett is an M&A expert. Back in Birmingham, Helen Burnell is knowledgeable on high-value investment transactions, while Alistair Hammerton concentrates on the seed fundraising side.

Practice head(s):

Alastair Peet; Steve Barnett; Sanjeev Sharma; Tom Wilde

Other key lawyers:

Helen Burnell; Alistair Hammerton; Adam Leszczynski; Charlotte Cannell; Gregg Harris; Kat Hornsby

Testimonials

‘We work extremely closely with the team and they now feel like an extension of our own, always available and enthusiastically focused on supporting us.’

‘Sanjeev Sharma and Adam Leszczynski are extremely pragmatic and commercial, they have worked hard to understand what is acceptable to us as investors and deliver excellent work to tight deadlines.’

 

Key clients

Octopus Ventures

Triple Point

Mercia Asset Management

Blackfinch Ventures

Hambro Perks

Foresight Group

Clean Growth Fund

Pi Labs

Gresham House British Sustainable Infrastructure Fund

Business Growth Fund

Lopay Ltd

NVM Private Equity and the other shareholders of Pareto Facilities Management

Shareholders of Kapow Primary Limited

Maven Capital Partners UK LLP

Gresham House Asset Management Limited

XYZ Reality Limited

Hoxton Ventures

Carbon Quota Limited

EV Chargers (EVC)

Work highlights

  • Advising Speechmatics on its $62m Series B fundraising led by US investor Susquehanna Growth Equity.
  • Advising a consortium of four major institutional investors on their exit from Vauban to American tech giant Carta Inc.
  • Advising Triple Point’s on the sale of its holding in Credit Kudos to Apple in a deal worth $150m.

Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 2

Finance > Asset based lending Tier 2

The 'responsive' team at Shoosmiths LLP provides 'high-quality' advice to a creditor-focused client base across a range of ABL solutions to borrowers in the domestic market. Under the leadership of the 'outstanding' Jon Bew, the Birmingham-based transactional team has established particularly strong traction in relation to bilateral mid-market mandates, where clients benefit from its deep familiarity with documentation, enabling it to provide a 'very efficient and cost-effective' service on multiple ongoing mandates. Bew is aided by Natalie Barnes, 'who works well with the counterparty advisers' to ensure that deals progress in a timely and pragmatic fashion. On the non-contentious front, lender clients benefit from the expertise of London-based Andrew Bowden-Brown, who is able to assist on security and enforcement issues, including as these relate to fraud, asset tracing and debt recovery.

Practice head(s):

Jon Bew

Other key lawyers:

Natalie Barnes; Alistair Hayes; Kieran Cummins; Andrew Bowden-Brown; Mike Lockton

Testimonials

The responsive team works through complex issues efficiently and produces high-quality work in a timely manner.’

‘They fully understand our concerns at the outset but also provide solutions and suggestions when unexpected situations arise.’

The outstanding John Bew is very pragmatic and commercial.’

Natalie Barnes leads by example on each transaction, delivering high-quality work efficiently whatever the scenario or transaction. She works well with the counterparty advisers and effectively manages her team and the transaction timeline.’

Alistair Hayes is brilliant.’

Key clients

Shawbrook Bank Limited

Aurelius Finance Company Limited

IGF Business Credit Limited

HSBC Invoice Finance (UK) Limited

Close Invoice Finance Limited

Arbuthnot Commercial Asset Based Lending Limited

ABN AMRO Asset Based Finance N.V., UK Branch

Investec Bank Plc

Hilco Capital

Praetura Commercial Finance Limited

Novuna

Work highlights

  • Advised Shawbrook Bank on an ABL agreement relating to £24.5m senior facilities to be provided to one of the UK’s leading electrical wholesalers.
  • Advised Aurelius Finance Company on the provision of ABL facilities to a highly regulated Irish borrower group.
  • Advised IGF Business Credit Ltd in relation to an asset-based facilities agreement, which included an inventory facility to international home and lifestyle company Designers Guild.

Industry focus > Retail and consumer Tier 2

The ‘hands on’ team at Shoosmiths LLP has a strong hold on the British retail and consumer sector, working with a host of renowned corporate clients. Recent work highlights include working on a cross border deal between Reliance Brands and Superdry to establish an IP joint venture which encompassed work in Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh. The retail group is headed by Gary Assim who is noted for his expertise in fashion and retail IP disputes. Sherif Malak advises clients on digital and data aspects and the team is also supported by Hamish Corner who deals with data-privacy issues. Joseph Mazzucca provides support for real estate matters, and Angus Evers deals with environmental law issues.

Practice head(s):

Gary Assim; Sherif Malak; Angus Evers; Hamish Corner; Joseph Mazzucca

Testimonials

‘Great mix of young and more experienced lawyers! Hands on.’

‘Gary Assim – natural authority that makes you want to listen to him. Very skilled and experienced! ’

 

Key clients

AK Retail & Yours Clothing

Reliance Brands

GoPuff

Oak Furnitureland

The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.

The Fashion Group

Poundland

The White Company

Charles Tyrwhitt

McArthur Glen

Weetabix

Tesco Stores Limited

Holland & Barrett

Shark Ninja

Boots and Boots Opticians

Work highlights

  •   Advised Reliance Brands,  an Indian multinational conglomerate on a deal regarding the establishment of an IP joint venture between Superdry and Reliance and the related IP sale and licensing agreements.
  • Advised PwC on the administration of the Cath Kidston business and its eventual sale to Next plc.
  • Advised breakfast cereal maker Weetabix on the acquisition of own-label breakfast cereal and cereal bar maker Deeside Cereals.

Insurance > Product liability: defendant Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP is able to draw on a range of cross-practice expertise to deal with product liability litigation and regulatory issues, ranging from product development and marketing to product concerns and recalls, and associated claims. The team acts for key players in a range of sectors, including automotive, retail, consumer goods and manufacturing. Hayley Saunders heads up the team, which also includes 'commercially astute and very capable litigator' Paul Eccles, who is an insurance specialist, and Stephen Johnstone, who is proficient in regulated product labelling and advertising matters.

Practice head(s):

Hayley Saunders

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘As in other areas, the firm punches well above its weight. Hugely knowledgeable with real depth of experience in heavyweight litigation across the board. Commercially astute with tremendous insight and expertise.’

‘Paul Eccles has masses of experience. His personable exterior belies a commercially astute and very capable litigator.’

Key clients

AmTrust Europe Limited

Hoover Limited (part of Haier Group)

Premier Guarantee/AmTrust Europe Ltd

Chubb Insurance

HDI Gerling

Husqvarna Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising a wide range of well-known companies on their product development (R&D), recalls and regulatory litigation arising out of product issues.
  • Advising multiple clients on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, and on the civil and criminal risks arising from the disaster.
  • Advising a large chemical company on its dispute with DEFRA and the APHA in relation to a well-known brand of chemical, including providing recall advice.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Manchester Tier 2

Praised for its ‘blend of legal and commercial skills’ the corporate and commercial team at Shoosmiths LLP is well-versed in public company matters and cross-border acquisitions, with a particular focus on the insurance sector. The ‘excellent’ Elia Montorio heads the corporate practice and is noted for her focus on M&A, international cross-border transactions, complex reorganisations of international corporations and private equity work. Both Richard Millington and Luke Stubbs lead the commercial team; Millington has been described in his ‘practical in his problem-solving approach’, while Stubbs specialises in the tech sector. Andrew Millar advises clients on the full scope of corporate transactions.

Practice head(s):

Elia Montorio; Richard Millington; Luke Stubbs

Other key lawyers:

Andrew Millar; Suzanne Taylor

Testimonials

‘Dedicated hard working people who went the extra mile while working with me.’

‘Andrew Millar is very amenable, easy to work with and brings fresh ideas to complex or difficult issues.’

‘Shoosmiths are a very respectable firm who punch above their weight in relation to the deals that they are instructed on.’

‘Andrew Millar has been provided excellent advice through a number of transactions we have worked on together through 2023. He is very clam and considered in his approach and gives clear and transparent advice. He is easy to deal with and responds promptly to queries.’

‘Very helpful team in all areas of the practice.’

‘Very experienced team that have the blend of legal and commercial skills required in the M&A world.’

‘I work specifically with Elia Montorio who is an excellent corporate lawyer. She has vast experience including both buy side and sell side experience, as well as cross border transactions. She has excellent interpersonal skills and is very good at hand holding clients through complex legal matters. ’

‘Richard Millington is one of the most brilliant and extremely knowledgeable lawyers I had the chance to work with. He is very practical in his problem-solving approach. His customer service is unparalleled.’

Key clients

Halma plc

Smoove plc

The sellers of London Drainage Facilities Limited

Rotala Group Limited

Everton Football Club

Unisystems

Nike

Hela Apparel Holdings plc

Evelyn Partners LLP

EG Group Limited (t/a Euro Garages)

Sports Direct

Wilkie Farr & Gallagher LLP

B&M Bargains plc

Whaivu Holdings Limited

MIP Holdings Limited (t/a French Connection)

Apparel Brands (owner of Bench, Hooch and NICCE brands)

Jensten Group Limited

MVI Vehicle Integration Ltd

Apex Partners SA

Big Green Smile Limited

Peakbridge VC

Zip Co Limited (listed on AUS)

Wraith Holdings International Limited

Hallam Land Management Limited

Matillion Limited

Fissara Limited

Radii Planet Group Limited

Infex Therapeutics Limited

Compusoft GB Limited

Thinksmart Limited

B&M Retail

Stonegate

Work highlights

  • Advising Smoove plc on its £30.8m takeover by way of scheme of arrangement by Digcom UK Holdings Limited, an indirect subsidiary undertaking of ASX listed PEXA Group Limited.
  • Advising the shareholders of Apparel Brands Limited on its sale to Garm Bidco Limited, a company backed by True Capital.
  • Advising Halma Plc and its group companies on a number of corporate acquisitions.

Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 2

Acting for boards, banks, ABLs and insolvency practitioners on matters ranging from distressed lending to corporate restructuring and insolvency, Sarah Teal leads the team at Shoosmiths LLP in Manchester. Bethan Moore is also a key name with noteworthy expertise in non-contentious restructuring mandates, including distressed business sales to liquidations and receiverships of considerable value. Hollie Wrigley is  ‘hardworking, responsive, creative’, and Hannah Gaskell continues to advise on notable disposals and acquisitions.

Practice head(s):

Sarah Teal

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘This team is very responsive and knowledgeable.’

‘Sarah Teal is very responsive and knows her stuff – very much a trusted adviser on insolvency and corporate recovery matters.’

‘Hannah Gaskell is hardworking, responsive, creative, always available, and provides succinct advice.’

‘Bethan Moore is bright, understanding, creative and great fun. Sarah Minshull is articulate, responsive, clear thinking, and provides straightforward advice.’

‘Beth Moore and Sarah Teal are pragmatic and driven to reach the right outcome.’

‘All of the individuals in the team have a strong work ethic with a matching technical capability which is worn lightly by all team members. They are on a par with any other firm operating in the insolvency market.’

‘Sarah Teal is just brilliant. Nothing is too much trouble and she has a great eye for the underlying commercials. Highly recommended for tricky restructuring with the support of her Manchester team.’

‘Hannah Gaskell is a real force to be reckoned with. She knows the legislation off the top of her head. She is energetic and has a real knack for handling the hardiest of problems. She has an effortlessly hands-on approach and always manages to pull the goods out of the bag.’

Key clients

Real Fun Group Limited

Interpath Limited

Kroll Advisory Ltd

Interpath Limited

Endless

Interpath Ltd

Ernst & Young LLP

AK Retail Holdings Limited

BDO

Cowgill Holloway Business Recovery

CM Global Talent Limited

Bibby Financial Services Ltd

Close Brothers Invoice Finance Ltd

Santander UK Plc

Work highlights

  • Acting for the Real Fun Group on acquiring eight bingo clubs and their freeholds out of administration, safeguarding approx. 150 jobs in time for Christmas.
  • Acting for the administrators of footwear retailer Hotter Shoes in respect of saving 400 jobs following a sale to Woolovers Group.
  • Acting for the Enact fund managed by private equity fund Endless LLP on its acquisition of the business and assets of Accrofab and the Alcester site of Bromford Industries, securing 309 jobs.

Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 2

The charities group at Shoosmiths LLP advises a wide variety of charities and businesses with full-service capabilities that encompass the entire gamut of charity law and governance issues. Members of the team are praised by clients as ‘exceptional in their commitment to support the charity sector of Greater Manchester'. The group employs a cross-discipline approach to clients and collaborates with the firm's real estate, intellectual property, and employment teams to ensure a holistic service is provided. The practice is co-led from Manchester by Robert Nieri, who is in charge of the charities and not-for-profit practice and advises clients with ‘legal acumen, common sense and kindness in abundance‘, and real estate specialist Anna Lowe.

Practice head(s):

Robert Nieri; Anna Lowe

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths have a broad range of sector specialists who consistently provide a fast and efficient response to requests for support. The team take the time to understand our business and operations whilst providing trusted legal advice in an efficient and timely manner.’

‘Team is very responsive, listen to the issues and is quick to offer solutions. The communication was so clear.’

‘Robert Nieri was extremely helpful and very eager to help us as we have had some trouble registering the charity. A true professional in the sphere. I definitely recommend Robert and his team to anyone who is asking for a recommendation from me. Exceptional service.’

‘Robert Nieri and all the team at Shoosmiths are exceptional in their commitment to support the charity sector of Greater Manchester, both in respect of their paid for legal advice, but also the networking, resource, and support they give on a pro-bono basis.’

‘Robert Nieri continually goes above and beyond to support us at the charity, and in terms of individual development. He is readily able to offer support and direct enquiries as needed to appropriate legal or otherwise points of contact. Across the team, their honesty shines through.’

‘I think of Shoosmiths as being a leading law firm offering a premium service. Their people are authentic, have personality and are not homogeneous.’

‘The knowledge and depth of the network and contacts within the sector was excellent. Nothing was too much trouble and the tenacity in ensuring the right outcome was achieved for us was exceptional.’

‘Robert Nieri stands out as a lawyer who cares about his clients. He brings legal acumen, common sense and kindness in abundance. A joy to work with.’

Key clients

Society for Technology Innovation and Modernisation

The Land Trust

Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts

The University Caterers Organisation Limited

Broken Planet Federation

Royal Exchange Theatre Company Limited

Greater Manchester Youth Federation

Groundwork Greater Manchester

The Portico Library and Newsroom

Manchester Camerata

TuVida

Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity

Rainbows Hospice

Young People’s Foundation Trust

Charity Finance Group

Work highlights

  • Advising the Charity Finance Group on its efforts to lobby the Government and Parliament to amend the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Bill.
  • Acted for the Royal Exchange Theatre in the letting of the Grade II listed theatre in the heart of Manchester city centre.
  • Acted for streetwear brand Broken Planet in registering its corporate charity, Broken Planet Foundation, which aims to help address the climate emergency and biodiversity loss.

Real estate > Planning and environment Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP's planning and environment practice has strong capabilities in advising on the planning aspects of a range of matters, from large-scale residential developments to work involving the complex planning and development of highways. A number of specialists oversee the team, namely 'equally fantastic' national planning leads Kathryn Jump, who has significant planning and CPO experience, and Lisa Tye whose skillset encompasses development and regeneration planning. Practice co-head David Mathias regularly advises clients on biodiversity regulations. Samantha Grange is noted for her broad CPO and compensation claims expertise.

Practice head(s):

Kathryn Jump; Lisa Tye; David Mathias

Other key lawyers:

Alex Jones; Samantha Grange

Testimonials

‘Lisa Tye and Kathryn Jump are both very highly regarded in the North West and beyond. Their service is very personable and proactive.’

‘Shoosmiths consistently provide first-rate advice on all planning matters. They are a company you would want in the trenches with you.’

‘Kathryn Jump and Lisa Tye are both equally fantastic and client friendly. Lisa and Kathryn have the ability to provide complex advice in a client friendly way. Alex Jones provides well thought-out, clear advice in a straightforward manner.’

‘Lisa Tye and Kathryn Jump are both stand-out practitioners with particular knowledge and expertise in compulsory purchase matters.’

‘An extremely strong CPO and CPO compensation practice; calm, clever partners who are cool under pressure even in the midst of very difficult litigation.’

‘Lisa Tye is a standout partner for me – a real pleasure to work with, clients listen to her and she brings the incisive mind and practical pragmatism needed to navigate complex matters.’

‘This is the leading planning team in the North West – providing an outstanding offering in planning and compulsory purchase projects.’

‘Kathryn Jump is a complete star – she has a complete understanding of site promotion and broader plan-making context. She is highly efficient, manages her team well and is superb with clients. She has represented one for the major landowners in the North West in many major applications and transactions.’

Key clients

Peel Holdings

Kellen Homes

Wirral Growth Company

Allied London

EG Group

Land Trust

Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames

Calderdale Borough Council

Countryside Properties

Renaker

Liverpool Airport

Extra MSA

London Borough of Hounslow Council

Work highlights

  • Advised Wirral Growth Company on the section 106 agreement and hybrid planning permission delivering the JV between Wirral Council and Muse on their mixed use development scheme at Moreton in Marsh, Wirral.
  • Advising Liverpool Airport Limited on a planning appeal relating to their proposed development of part of the Airport’s operational land as a solar farm, an essential part of a £100m expansion project for the Airport.
  • Advising Peel on planning applications for an aggregate of 1,800 new homes within a mixed use development at Mosley Common, a 61 hectare site that will be released from the Green Belt in Wigan.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and M&A Tier 2

The ‘very responsive’ Shoosmiths LLP corporate practice places a strong emphasis on private equity and venture capital matters, as well as the renewable energy sector. The group is headed by Andrew Jennings and Grant Edwards. The ‘very knowledgeable’ Jennings brings extensive experience in matters concerning corporate finance and IP. Meanwhile, the ‘trusted and highly valued’ Edwards specialises in M&A transactions within the renewable energy sector. At the associate level, Laura Leatham has a track record of work on transactions in the care home and hotel sectors in Northern Ireland and the UK.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Jennings; Grant Edwards

Other key lawyers:

Laura Leathem

Testimonials

‘A diverse range of expertise can be called on for various issues. Very responsive to any query.’

‘Andrew Jennings is very knowledgeable in corporate finance and IP.’

‘Grant Edwards has been exceptional to work with. His exceptional professionalism, coupled with the outstanding quality of service provided by him and his team, has made our experience working with Shoosmiths excellent. ’

‘The team we have worked with are a pleasure to do business with. They deliver work in a timely fashion, make us feel valued as a customer. There is an evident strength in depth across the team too.’

‘The Northern Ireland and Scotland teams work seamlessly as one, and the quality of work and advice provided has been great. This ability to provide great local service but as part of a national firm that has vast experience within the venture capital sector is a powerful combination that we value.’

‘Grant Edwards is our main point of contact and is a trusted and highly valued advisor.’

Key clients

Par Equity LLP

Foresight Group LLP

B-Secur Ltd

Panoramic Growth Equity (Fund Management) LLP

Gresham House Asset Management Limited

Inclutech Limited

Haru Ltd

Maven Capital Partners

Iona Capital Limited

Capital Dynamics

EnergieKontor

MPG Wind Ltd

ABO Wind Gmbh / ABO Wind NI Ltd

Elvstone Holdings Limited

Regtick Limited

CDS New Ventures

Work highlights

  • Advised EnergieKontor on the disposal of several large (37-50MW) onshore wind farms to leading infrastructure fund, Capital Dynamics.
  • Advised B-Secur Limited on a $10m investment from US-based Orlando Health Ventures.
  • Advised certain shareholders in Haru, a tech powered e-commerce business, on the sale of Haru to Barclays Ventures backed Responsible with a focus on sustainable fashion.

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 2

The ‘precise and clear’ banking and finance team at Shoosmiths LLP specialises in advising corporate borrowers and lenders on acquisition financing, real estate financing, and asset-based lending. The Belfast office regularly collaborates with the firm’s wider network, including the Edinburgh and Thames Valley offices. Anna Vangrove, ‘a pleasure to deal with’, regularly advises on real estate and energy transactions. Principal associate Michael Kelly  provides support on real estate finance transactions, while associate Grainne Fairbrother supports Vangrove on energy and real estate projects.

Practice head(s):

Anna Vangrove

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team are commercial in their approach, provide concise and clear explanations of any issues that may present, and engage across all levels. They are clearly knowledgeable, experienced and capable individuals in their field, all of which supports our ability to deliver for our clients.’

‘Michael Kelly and Anna Vangrove provide excellent service, strong and sound commercial and legal advice and clear and concise explanations in support of their recommendations. They are a key partner for us, particularly in the Northern Ireland Market.’

‘Anna Vangrove is a pleasure to deal with. She knows exactly what support we need and does not overcomplicate things. She is always available and consistently delivers excellent service. ’

Key clients

AIB Group (UK) plc

Ulster Bank

Danske Bank

Ultimate Finance

Industrial Finance & Leasing

Ortus Secured Finance

Emerald Properties

Willen Biogas

Emerald Airlines

Keys Finance

Santander

Choice Housing Association

Lough Erne Resort

Foresight Fund Managers

Work highlights

  • Advised Ulster Bank on its acquisition finance funding for the purchase of Lesley Forestside Shopping Centre.
  • Advised AIB Group on the acquisition finance funding for two PBSA Schemes in Bristol and Glasgow.
  • Advised Willen Biogas on its AD Plant refinance with Nash Capital.

Real estate > Commercial property: Edinburgh and Glasgow Tier 2

Well-regarded for its expertise in the living sector, Shoosmiths is also involved in the retail, leisure, development, and energy spaces. Practice head Janette Speed brings significant experience acting for national housebuilders and commercial developers, while Barry McKeown focuses on the housebuilding and build-to-rent sectors. Robin Mitchell acts for occupiers in the retail and logistics sector, as well as landlords, and Sheelagh Cooley leads the real estate finance practice. Active in the residential development area, Rachel Munro is another key member of the team.

Practice head(s):

Janette Speed

Other key lawyers:

Barry McKeown; Robin Mitchell; Sheelagh Cooley; Gillian Ralph; Megan McDonald; Lyndsey O’Connor; Lauren Miller; Rachel Munro

Testimonials

‘The team at Shoosmiths are standout in terms of their service delivery but more importantly Janette and her team excel in the living sector. Gillian Ralph gets the legal and commercial aspects right.’

‘I would highly recommend the Commercial Property team at Shoosmiths. Their expertise and understanding of our business are invaluable.’

‘The team in Shoosmiths is diligent, very responsive, and also willing to take on challenging transactions. The very friendly nature of the staff provides confidence to me as a client.’

‘I cannot praise Barry McKeown and Megan McDonald highly enough. They were always coming up with solutions to complex problems and also kept a cool head when the transaction went off track and ensured that it reached a satisfactory conclusion.’

‘Lyndsey O’Connor always looks for the best solution. She makes sure she knows the specifics.’

‘Sheelagh Cooley is extremely competent and navigates complex situations with veritable ease due to a positive manner and a wealth of experience.’

‘Shoosmiths is a modern practice that is forwarding thinking and innovative but still values traditional methods of building, maintaining and developing personal business relationships, which is the cornerstone of understanding a client and their business well.’

‘Barry McKeown is excellent at dealing with complex transactions and provides strong leadership to the Glasgow team. Lauren Miller drives matters forward and identifies key issues from the outset. Rachel Munro is a rising star and someone we trust to progress all aspects of the transactions we deal with.’

Key clients

Davidson Kemper

The PRS REIT plc

Housing Growth Partnership

Stewart Melrose Pension Scheme

Sigma Capital Group

City Property Glasgow

Gatehouse Investment Management

Screwfix

Sigma Capital Group

Morrison Community Care Group

Carmichael Homes

Work highlights

  • Advised Sigma on the on the forward purchase of 306 single family houses across 8 residential estates from Avant Homes with a total deal value of £59.5m
  • Acted for Housing Growth Partnership in their investment and funding of a 790 bed PBSA development with a gross development value of £120m.
  • Advised City Property Glasgow (Investments) LLP on the grant of a 150 year lease of the Tontine Building, Glasgow, which is to undergo significant redevelopment works to create a multipurpose building.

Real estate > Social housing Tier 2

With ‘great strength on the bench’, Shoosmiths advises on a wide range of social housing projects, particularly focusing on private residential developments. Janette Speed spearheads the team, dealing with commercial and residential development transactions with affordable developers and RSL providers. Key members of the team include Lauren Miller and Gillian Ralph, who act for residential developers providing affordable housing.

Practice head(s):

Janette Speed

Other key lawyers:

Lauren Miller; Gillian Ralph; Geraint Hughes

Testimonials

‘The team at Shoosmiths are standout in terms of their service delivery. Janette Speed and her team excel in the Living Sector. They have great strength on the bench and specialist teams are primed to support when required.’

‘Gillian Ralph goes above and beyond to assist with meeting our requirements for the contracts and is exceptionally knowledgeable in the subject matter.’

‘They are hard-working, driven, smart and genuinely care about the client’s needs.’

‘Lauren Miller is personable and listens to your needs as a client, offering sound commercial advice.’

Key clients

Robertson Living Limited

Taylor Wimpey UK Limited

Bellway Homes Limited

Watkin Jones plc

Aberdeen City Council

Thriving Investments

Work highlights

  • Acted for Taylor Wimpey in connection with the development and sale of 55 affordable housing units at Auldcathie View, Winchburgh.
  • Acted for L&S in connection with the sale of 8 affordable homes at Duchlage Road, Crieff.
  • Advised Aberdeen City Council on the conclusion of planning legal agreements to secure approximately 500 dwellings and PBSA beds.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP focuses on complex, commercial litigation and possesses strong credentials for work arising out of the manufacturing, IT and retail sectors. Acting for commercial lenders in disputes involving the recovery of commercial debt is another core pillar of the group’s strong regional practice. Alex Bishop heads the nationwide practice, whilst Kate Connolly is the key name in the Milton Keynes office for termination and breach of contract claims, breach of restrictive covenants and complex debt recovery.

Practice head(s):

Alex Bishop

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘User friendly, reliable, cost conscious for their clients.’

‘Approachable, professional and personal.’

‘London quality at regional rates.’

Key clients

British Business Bank

Tesco Mobile Ltd

Checkatrade

Enzen Global Ltd

Ecolab Limited

Work highlights

  • Successfully represented the British Business Bank against a claimant, defeating the claim both in the High Court and Court of Appeal.
  • Defending Ecolab Limited against an eight figure breach of contract claim.
  • Represented and advised a high net worth individual in long-running, multi-faceted claim against former employer.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Thames Valley, Berks, Oxon, M4/M40 Tier 2

Regarded as ‘very committed to their work, efficient, highly communicative and responsive’, Shoosmiths LLP represents a myriad of clients across commercial, corporate, public procurement and health related disputes. ‘Excellent’ and ‘strategic’ Fleur Turrington spearheads the team with her particular strengths in contentious public procurement mandates, while key contact Aimee Cook holds considerable experience in acting on high-value disputes.

Practice head(s):

Fleur Turrington

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Aimee Cook combines thoroughness, diligence and commercial pragmatism.’

‘The team were quick to respond to our situation which, as time was of the essence, was essential. They fielded a team highly experienced in the subject matter, who provided a clear way forward, giving their best advice throughout the whole process.’

‘A special mention to Fleur Turrington. Fleur handled the situation from start to finish and kept us fully informed. She was able to bring on expertise and counsel as required, in a timely fashion.’

‘Fleur Turrington is a very good litigator in this field.’

‘This is a small but very well-resourced team, specialising in commercial dispute resolution, including public procurement work. They are very committed to their work, efficient, highly communicative and responsive.’

‘Fleur Turrington is an excellent team leader and strategic in her thinking.’

‘An excellent, high-quality team providing top-notch service.’

Key clients

Ecolab Limited

The Student Energy Group Ltd

Young Hammersmith & Fulham Consortium Ltd

Capital Development Investments Ltd

Henkel Limited

Kuehne + Nagel Limited

Gilling Dod Limited

Mitsubishi HC Capital UK Plc

Coloplast Limited

Wolverhampton City Council

Morgan Advanced Materials Plc

Tulip Trading Limited

Work highlights

  • Acting for Tulip Trading Limited in its it claim regarding ownership of digital assets worth circa £4.5bn.
  • Acting for Mitsubishi, an interested party in a high-profile judicial review brought by Shawbrook Bank against the Financial Ombudsman Service.
  • Acting for Ecolab Limited defending a substantial damages claim.

Dispute resolution > Debt recovery Tier 2

Employment > Employment: Hampshire Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP advises its clients on the breadth of employment law matters, including restrictive covenants, discrimination claims, long-term sickness issues, and grievance procedures. With more than two decades of experience in employment law, Stuart Lawrenson leads the team in Southampton. Lawrenson routinely advises HR professionals on various legal matters, and is also recommended for cases relating to collective redundancies and TUPE issues. Sian Hoare is a go-to lawyer in the region for immigration queries, and Ashlie Cheshire is also noted for her assistance with reviewing policies and procedures as well as drafting settlement agreements.

Practice head(s):

Stuart Lawrenson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They are all very approachable and explain things in a way that can be easily understood.’

‘Sian Hoare is very practical in her approach and balances the needs of the business with keeping us on the right side of the law.’

‘The team has a diverse range of experience and is headed up by a very experienced partner. They have experts in many topics and are quick to respond and always deliver to pre agreed timescales.’

‘Stuart Lawrenson and Sian Hoare are very approachable, knowledgeable, and diligent in the work and support they provide.’

‘The team at Shoosmiths are one of the best I have worked with. They all have their own unique skill set and expert knowledge. There is always someone available to help and support.’

‘Stuart Lawrenson and Sian Hoare have a wealth of knowledge between them. They have a no-nonsense approach.’

‘Sian Hoare has a wonderful balance of professionalism, empathy, and is always so prompt to respond.’

Key clients

21 Six Limited

Allegro MicroSystems Europe Limited

Benefex Limited

Big Yellow Self Storage

Cartus Limited

Churchill China (UK) Limited

Churchill Retirement Plc

Colten Care Limited

Combined Independent Holdings

CooperVision Limited

DAS Services Limited

Delin Property Asset Management UK

Dukes Education Limited

Excellerate Services UK Limited

F Bender Limited

Fennies Day Nurseries Limited

Gattaca Plc

G.S. Associates (Scotland) Limited

Hafele UK Limited

Healthy Retail Limited (T/A Pure Foods)

Insensys Limited

Kaz Minerals

Market Harborough Building Society

Meadow Foods Limited

Next Plc

Onecom Group Limited

Semtech Limited

Stonemanor Ltd T/A Apricot

Stretchline Holdings Limited

The Fashion Group

Travelodge Hotels Limited

Tricuro Limited

Wartsila UK Limited

Wahaca Limited

Private client > Personal tax, trusts and probate: Beds, Bucks, Herts, Middx Tier 2

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP houses a strong team in Thames Valley that advises on the full spectrum of commercial and residential property disputes, including leasehold enfranchisement, development agreement disputes, and dilapidation claims. Heading the practice in Reading, Simon Foster regularly acts for investors, charities, social landlords, housebuilders, and private individuals. The team is strengthened by the addition of Laura Ford, who joined the firm from Blake Morgan LLP in October 2023. Ford has experience with lease renewals, break clause executions, and boundary disputes. Aimee Teague left the firm in September 2023.

Practice head(s):

Simon Foster

Other key lawyers:

Richard Willcox; Laura Ford

Testimonials

‘They know the law relating to the discipline they practice, and they are swift with their advice.’

‘Shoosmiths is very dependable. They return telephone calls within a few hours. Their notes on a situation are well explained and delivered in a timely manner.’

‘We have been delighted with the level of service provided.’

‘Richard Willcox always provides clear advice that can be relied on.’

‘There is a wide range of expertise within the team. The response time is excellent.’

‘Simon Foster stands out for his professionalism and expertise in the area of land litigation work.’

‘The service from all team members has been superb. They are incredibly helpful and knowledgeable.’

Key clients

AEW Europe

Anthony Bethell

Capital Pleasure Boats Limited

Conde Nast Holdings Limited

Feldberg Capital

Frank Capital

Nissan Motor Limited

Persimmon Homes Limited and BDW Trading Limited

Taylor Wimpey UK Limited

The Third Space Group

Tottenham Park Islamic Cemetery Association

Workspace Group Plc

UKRO Property Holdings

Work highlights

  • Advised Workspace on over £100m worth of disposals of non-core assets following the acquisition of McKay Securities in May 2022.
  • Provided strategic advice to Persimmon and BDW in respect of a 3,000-unit site in Dallington.
  • Advised Conde Nast on their London HQ move to offices at the Adelphi building.

Dispute resolution > Banking litigation Tier 2

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Birmingham Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP acts for an impressive roster of domestic and international clients including FTSE 100 companies and clients within the financial services industry; the team has niche expertise in handling complex fraud and corporate disputes. The practice is headed up by Alex Bishop, who routinely supports clients within the retail, leisure, IT, and manufacturing industries on a wide range of commercial disputes and injunctive proceedings, such as freezing orders and search and seizure orders. Jonathan Smart is a notable team member for his ‘combination of intelligence, practical advice and charm’. In November 2023, Roger Potgieter and Mark Elder departed to TLT and Andrew Whalley joined from DWF. Hannah Field also joined the team from Goodwin in May 2023.

Practice head(s):

Alex Bishop

Testimonials

‘Alex Bishop: She’s marvellous! She’s built the Shoosmiths litigation department into a first-rate litigation team, more than capable of playing in the ‘big league’. She is hugely impressive: she’s hugely hard-working; she leaves no stone unturned; she’s extremely bright, and a very good lawyer; and she knows how best to run a substantial piece of litigation. Absolutely top quality.’

‘Jonathan Smart: He’s very clever, an excellent lawyer, and utterly delightful. Clients trust him implicitly because of his combination of intelligence, practical advice and charm.’

‘Alex Bishop is hugely experienced and has infectious enthusiasm.’

‘Solid, hardworking and very approachable.’

‘Alex Bishop leads the team with style and panache.’

Key clients

Ecolab Limited

Next plc

W M Morrison Supermarkets Limited

Travelodge Plc

Electrolux Plc

Simply Asset Finance

The Student Energy Group

Work highlights

  • Successfully settled a multi-million-pound breach of contract/negligence claim against Ecolab on favourable terms.
  • Obtained an injunction and full costs recovery for The Student Energy company in a fraud action.
  • Advising a major retailer in relation to an alleged multi-million-pound wrongful termination claim by its logistics supplier following suspected systematic over-charging.

Public sector > Education Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP provides ‘expert knowledge’ in SEN assistance. The firm advise families and councils on EHC plans and provisions. It is experienced in negotiations, mediations and SEND tribunal proceedings in relation to EHC plan appeals. Kashmir Uppal leads the team alongside the ‘outstanding’ Gurvinder Samra, who specialises in SEN advice especially around EHC plans.

Practice head(s):

Gurvinder Samra; Kashmir Uppal

Testimonials

‘Expert knowledge of the subject area (SEN Tribunal).’

‘Gurvinder Samra is outstanding. She knows the subject matter at an expert level.’

‘When faced with the might of the local authority, you need more than just a lawyer; you need a champion. Shoosmiths proved to be just that when I engaged.’

‘Gurvinder Samra possesses a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding local authority interactions. Her knowledge of the law and procedures is  remarkable, presenting our case with persuasive arguments.’

‘Outstanding and up to date knowledge of SEND and the law and able to explain this clearly and succinctly.’

‘Gurvinder Samra was amazing, out of this world.’

‘Guvinder Samra is an exceptional solicitor. I trust her knowledge and judgment.’

Work highlights

  • Conducted and advised on First Tier SEND appeal proceedings for a young person with autism securing an independent specialist school placement funded by the council.
  • Conducted and advised on First Tier SEND appeal proceedings for a young person with epilepsy, hearing loss and developmental delay securing an independent specialist college placement funded by the local authority.
  • Conducted and advised on First Tier SEND appeal proceedings for a young person with visual impairment securing a residential placement at an independent specialist college placement funded by the local authority.

Real estate > Construction Tier 2

Counting real estate investment firms, multinational housebuilders and property investors amongst its key clients, Shoosmiths LLP deploys a ‘very personal approach’ when advising on regeneration projects and energy developments. The Birmingham-based team’s expertise spans across the automotive, infrastructure and coastal defence sectors, with the ‘superb’ co-head Patrick Garner being regarded as a non-contentious development specialist, whilst the other co-lead, Andrew Outram specialises in the strategic aspects of major construction initiatives. Michael Bennett acts for employers and contractors, and Natalie Maye is also highlighted as key.

Practice head(s):

Patrick Garner; Andrew Outram

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Very personal approach. Tailored to client needs. No stone left unturned. Client’s interests always well considered and protected in contractual matters and drafting.’

‘Patrick Garner has been superb in working with us to prepare consultant appointment documents and bespoke forms of contract for on-site construction works.’

Key clients

St Modwen Properties Limited including St Modwen Homes Limited

Union Investment Real Estate GmbH

Newlands Developments

Tilia Homes Limited

Harworth Group Plc

I.M. Properties Plc

Nurton Developments Limited

Pitsford Street Limited (group company of Sir Robert McAlpine Capital Ventures Limited)

Walgreens Boots Alliance Group (formerly Alliance Boots Group)

McKay Securities PLC (now part of Workspace Group Plc)

Staticus (UK) Limited

Motability Operations Limited

Molson Coors Beverage Company

PM Group

Real estate > Planning Tier 2

Displaying niche planning litigation and compulsory purchase offerings, the practice at Shoosmiths LLP is routinely instructed by national housing groups, property management companies and multinational retailers. Based out of Nottingham and Birmingham, the head Tim Willis provides both strategic and site-specific planning and compulsory purchase advice to clients in the commercial and residential property spaces, whilst Paige Bedward represents landowners and local authorities.

Practice head(s):

Will Thomas; Kathryn Jump; Lisa Tye

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

Persimmon Homes

Richborough Estates

Central England Co-op

Boots UK Limited

Bellway Homes Limited

Brunswick Property Partners

Barwood Land

Parker Strategic Land Limited

Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames

Walsall Housing Group Limited

IM Properties

Safestore Properties Limited

Nurton Developments Limited

O&H Properties

Westlake Properties Limited

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 2

Consistently acting on big ticket litigation relating to dilapidations, contested breaks and rent arrears, the Birmingham-based Shoosmiths LLP team is hailed for its ‘speed of work and coordination’. Representing a diverse array of clients from across the property investment, retail and automotive spheres, the Midlands offering is headed by Kate McCall, who specialises in claims arising in the Appeal Courts and Upper Tribunals. Nick Shepherd leads the national practice, concentrating predominantly on rent reviews and development disputes, whilst Paul Knight frequently advises commercial developers and investors. Elinor Sandbach is an expert on landlord and tenant disputes, and Natalie Aldread is also highlighted as key.

Practice head(s):

Kate McCall; Nick Shepherd

Other key lawyers:

Paul Knight; Elinor Sandbach; Richard Willcox; Natalie Aldread; Bradley Roberts; Laurence Matthews; Amy Beaumont

Testimonials

‘Kate McCall is very knowledgeable, helpful, eloquent and able to articulate effectively. Laurence Matthews is also very friendly and helpful, and the communication is effective.’

‘Elinor Sandbach and Amy Beaumont are an excellent team. They deliver sensible and timely commercial advice to property litigation problems.’

‘Elinor Sandbach is an excellent property litigation partner. Elinor’s strength is providing cost efficient sensible advice in a timely manner.’

‘Very impressed with the speed of work and coordination with other departments.’

‘Kate McCall and Amy Beaumont are very nice to deal with and provide well-thought-out advice in a prompt manner. They are calm and focused.’

Key clients

British Car Auctions

Calthorpe Estates

Central Midlands Co-op

Crown Paints Limited

Equation Properties Limited

GXO Logistics

INGKA Centres (Ikea)

Krispy Kreme

McArthurGlen Group / McArthurGlen UK Retail Limited

Mountain Warehouse

Next

Northwood Investors

Nurton Developments Limited

One Stop Stores

Persimmon Plc

Pizza Hut (UK) Limited

Poundland

Regional REIT plc

Safestore Properties Limited

SpaMedica

Telefonica / O2

TFG (Whistles, Phase Eight, Hobbs)

Third Space Gyms

Topps Tiles

Dignity Funerals

Feldberg Capital

SAV Group

Telereal Trillium

UKRO Property

Union Investments GmbH

Work highlights

  • Retained by McArthurGlen UK to formulate and implement tenant management and vacant possession strategies to pave the way for extensions to existing McArthurGlen centres in the West Midlands, East Midlands and Bridgend.
  • Managing Poundland Limited’s property portfolio (204 ongoing matters), ranging from contested matters, disputes regarding the rent to be paid on renewal of a lease and high value dilapidations claims to ensure that Poundland and group companies property portfolios are run efficiently, and disputes resolved in a cost-effective and timely way.
  • Providing cross-portfolio asset management and litigation support to UKRO Property Holdings and its fund and asset managers, ADAPT Real Estate, across UKRO’s entire UK office portfolio, including: representing UKRO in one of only a handful of arbitrations which progressed to conclusion under the Commercial Rent (Coronavirus) Act 2022, in relation to relief from pandemic rent payments.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Leeds, West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire Tier 2

The ‘experienced and proactive team’ at Shoosmiths LLP gears its practice towards private equity transactions including investments and the establishment of joint ventures; M&A – including cross-border transactions; and corporate simplification mandates such as capital reduction demergers and restructurings. Practice head James Foster‘s transactional expertise is relied upon by international corporates to private equity and venture capital investors. Simon Procter is a key force behind the unit’s strength in cross-border work. Rebecca Holden counts pre-pack acquisitions and corporate reorganisations among her practice strengths. Natalie Redfern is a further name to note.

Practice head(s):

James Foster

Other key lawyers:

Simon Procter; Rebecca Holden; Anna Robson; Natalie Redfern

Testimonials

‘Experienced and proactive team.’

‘Proactiveness and willingness to provide a strong viewpoint on the best option, rather than only laying out all the options.’

‘Very professional and client-friendly.’

‘Anna Robson is a very experienced and proactive banking lawyer. She doesn’t waste time on things that are not important but rather hones in on the key points for her client. She works in a very efficient manner with her excellent team.’

‘Simon Procter steered us through a complicated group reorganisation. It quickly became apparent that Simon is hugely experienced with a sharp mind that quickly found solutions to the various challenges that were thrown up. He gets on with the project and only troubles you with key points or issues that he wants you to fully understand. Simon would be our first port of call for any future corporate work.’

Key clients

Azets Holdings Limited (backed by HG Capital and PAI Partners)

Business Growth Fund (“BGF”) (and various portfolio companies)

Capfun Group

Capiton AG (and various portfolio companies)

Element Solutions, Inc

Ellis Recruitment Group

Interactive Investor Services Limited

Laver Regeneration Holdings Limited

Lloyds Development Capital

Moorfield Private Equity Group

Nimbus Investments

Parabellum Investments

Rakuten, Inc

YFM Private Equity Limited

Crime, fraud and licensing > General crime and fraud Tier 2

Dispute resolution > Banking litigation Tier 2

The  exceptionally proactive’ team at Shoosmiths LLP has a strong track record in asset finance cases including business-to-business recoveries and disputes. Civil fraud and advice about specialist asset finance contracts are further areas of strength. Jonathan Mills leads the practice, and is an authority on quality disputes and return of goods cases. David Farnell departed to Keystone Law in October 2024.

Practice head(s):

Jonathan Mills

Testimonials

‘Very knowledgeable and keen to develop relationships.’

‘They took time to understand our initial ask, outlined what information they would require to fulfil the order and then directed us towards the best legal counsel.’

‘The Shoosmiths team have been a great fit with me and my businesses. The differentiator for me is their ability to read the room (from a legal perspective), cut to the chase and apply pragmatism to the situation.’

‘I truly feel comfortably with the Leeds team liaising with staff at all levels within my organisation. They have an ability to advise that is collaborative, clear and result-focused. I am extremely pleased with how our relationship has developed over the last several years.’

‘The team are exceptionally proactive in their handling of cases and are superb at devising the optimum recovery strategy to achieve the best outcome for the client.’

‘They are very quick to respond to both initial instructions and follow up case queries. I have complete confidence in their abilities to get on with cases with the minimum of fuss.’

Key clients

Bibby Factors Limited

Bibby Financial Services Limited

Bibby Leasing Limited

Bibby Trade Factors Limited

Employment > Employment: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP‘s team covers a wide range of employment work and has strong capabilities in Employment Tribunal litigation. Paul Stokey leads the national employment team and has significant expertise in defending corporate companies against large-scale claims, particularly regarding matters of equal pay. Phil Crowe leads the regional team and has specialist experience in advising on sensitive matters regarding the defence of worker status, gig economy claims and multiple high-profile union cases.

Practice head(s):

Paul Stokey; Phil Crowe

Testimonials

‘The team have always taken the time to get a good understanding of who we are and what we do.’

‘Our adviser is always very patient and takes the time to understand our issue in the context of our organisation and sector. He also has experience as a trustee and can often help us communicate issues effectively and appropriately with our board.’

‘Advice is always very quick, balanced and open.’

Key clients

The Constellation Automotive Group

Alliance Healthcare Management Services Limited

Wm Morrison Supermarkets PLC

Boots PLC

We Buy Any Car Limited

Cinch Cars Limited

Marshalls Motor Group

Vaultex UK Limited

Next PLC

Wienerberger Limited

My Dentist Group Limited

A1 Comms Limited

McGill & Partners

Commercial Estates Group Limited

Canal & Rivers Trust

Baglioni (UK) Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Boots PLC as its sole external employment law provider.
  • Preventing Unite the Union seeking to force recognition on BCA Automotive Limited.

Projects, energy and natural resources (including PFI) > Energy and projects Tier 2

Clean energy development, energy procurement and sustainable infrastructure are primary cornerstones of the energy and infrastructure practice at Shoosmiths LLP. Practice head James Wood-Robertson is praised for being highly professional, commercially astute and very approachable’. He has established himself as a popular choice for clients seeking assistance with waste PPP transactions. His Leeds colleague James Haikney is a leading choice for banks, developers and investment funds looking to refinance renewable generation assets. Jennifer Clarke‘s practice strengths include handling the commercial documentation for wind farm disposals.

Practice head(s):

James Wood-Robertson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Knowledgeable and confident.’

‘The Shoosmiths team provides commercial legal advice as they translate niche / complex areas of law and regulation into a digestible form.’

‘James Wood Robertson and his team are prepared to give commercial opinions on issues and get involved in internal decision-making thereby becoming an extension of our internal legal team. ’

‘The team have been an incredible resource to us as we commenced our business in the UK.  They have been incredibly flexible, and understand the corporate start-up world where often processes are not black and white.’

‘James Wood-Robertson is our specialist and principal point of contact. James is particularly knowledgeable of our often ‘non-specific’ industry. He is approachable, insightful, and often suggests new ways of approaching different avenues of business to help ensure that we are setting our processes correctly.’

‘Shoosmiths are huge in game-changing EV infrastructure and financing. They are at the heart of the conversation every time.’

‘Chris Pritchett combines the ability to be entirely personable and easy to communicate with, and the ability to convey vital information with confidence and depth of knowledge providing trust. ’

‘James Wood-Robertson has proven to be highly professional, commercially astute and very approachable. He has been open and honest throughout our dealings and not shrank from providing news that we would have preferred not to hear when this has been required.’

Key clients

Equitix

EnergieKontor

Foresight Group

ENGIE UK

ABO Wind

Switch2 Energy

Gresham House

DIF Capital

Iona Capital

Triple Point

Iceland Foods

EVC

TotalEnergies

Sante Global LLP

Goldbeck Solar

Renewabl

ITM Power

Kona Energy

Urbanchain

Instavolt

Work highlights

  • Advised German onshore wind developer, EnergieKontor, on the development and disposal of several onshore wind projects across the UK, including negotiation of corporate PPAs and contracts for difference.
  • Advising Workspace Group on its power purchase agreement with Statkraft Markets GmbH in respect of the sale and purchase of electricity generated by a solar PV project in Devon developed and owned by Gresham House.
  • Advised UK-based electric vehicle charging company, EV Chargers (EVC) on its series A fundraising of £165 million of capital from Funds managed by Denham Sustainable Infrastructure, an arm of global energy transition investment firm, Denham Capital.

Real estate > Commercial property: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP stands out due to its expertise in the living sector, where the firm frequently advises institutional investors and real estate funds on strategic land and property acquisitions, lease renewals and negotiations, and regeneration projects. Practice head Simon Meek is a key name for investment and development issues. Build-to-Rent expert Judy Fawcett  is well-regarded for her expertise in care home and retirement living development projects, areas in which Edell Asquez is also knowledgeable. Phil Gregory joined the firm in May 2023 from Gateley Legal, and James Speed joined from DWF, bolstering the firm's offering in the industrial and logistics sectors.

Practice head(s):

Simon Meek

Other key lawyers:

Judy Fawcett; Edell Asquez; Helen Bridgman; Phil Gregory; James Speed

Testimonials

‘Very knowledge of their specific sector (Commercial Property) The team and always available and accessible and we regularly use their file sharing platform for both internal and external use as required.’

‘The team at Shoosmiths are a first-rate team with the breadth and depth of expertise ensuring that we have the best in class at our disposal. The nature of our business means that we are constantly working to deadlines; whatever the challenge, Shoosmiths are always able to ensure that resources are applied to ensure that such deadlines are consistently met. We have worked with the team for many years and regularly engage directly with other lawyers representing large firms.’

‘Edell Asquez and Helen Bridgeman are two outstanding and senior members of the property team, and their work ethic filters down to the wider team who are without exception the most capable in their respective fields.’

‘The people and the availability they provide is what makes the team great – this level of service is seen across the entire of the Shoosmith’s team I have had to deal with. The team is incredibly approachable, have an incredible attention to detail and always take the time to explain things very carefully.’

‘As mentioned above, it’s the attention to detail, their approachability and their openness to explain things without rushing.’

‘On the matters the team have worked on for us over recent months, all those involved have been pro-active, prompt and commercial in their approach. The size and breath of team (in the Leeds office) is impressive, and it is comforting that all specialisms are covered under one roof, whether that be transactional, planning, litigation or construction. The use of technology and collaboration is impressive.’

‘Phil Gregory has always been and continues to be commercial, pro-active and user friendly in his approach both with ourselves and other parties involved in our transactions. He always tries to take a sensible line on negotiations and navigates a way through complex and challenging issues.’

Key clients

Moorfield Real Estate Fund

Vistry

Extra MSA Group

Commercial Development Projects

Allied London

Norman Place (Reading) LLP

Torsion Care

GEM Imports Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised Moorfield Real Estate Fund on the purchase of a development site next to Old Trafford Cricket Ground, Manchester and the forward funding of a major 4-block residential build-to-rent development with public realm, of a gross development value of £120m.
  • Advised Torsion Care on new site acquisitions for care home developments, including at Wakefield, Bingley, Bromsgrove, Chesterfield, Durham, Otley and Brighouse.
  • Advised Extra MSA Group on the acquisition of 40 acres of land at Junction 11 of the M62 at Birchwood, Warrington for a rare development of a new Motorway Services Area, including a state-of-the-art facilities building, 100-bedroom hotel, fuel filling station and electric charging hub.

Real estate > Commercial property: Sheffield, South Yorkshire Tier 2

Shoosmiths LLP's Sheffield office routinely represents property developers, occupiers, local authorities and investors on residential property development related issues, including student accommodation, and a broad range of commercial real estate transactions. Thomas Hall leads the team, while also heading the national strategic land sub-group. Kellie Hatton is well-versed in mixed-use, industrial and residential development projects and leads the firm’s nationwide development team. David Goy and Kate McGoverne are key members of the team.

Practice head(s):

Thomas Hall

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths is a modern practice that is forwarding thinking and innovative but still values traditional methods of building, maintaining and developing personal business relationships, which is the corner stone of understanding a client and their business well. They have developed technology to provide better and easier digital records which they can adapt to the client’s specific needs and appearance.’

‘Kate McGovern is an established solicitor who is well versed in all commercial landlord and tenant property matters. She understands the commercial reality of what businesses need from a lease to operate efficiently and effectively.

‘Always available when needed and dedicating the best person to the work they do for us.’

‘Kate McGovern is particularly notable.’

‘I believe that this team is highly good at delivering accurate information in short period of time.’

‘Kate McGoverne is highly motivated and capable at explaining to clients.’

Key clients

ATN Farms Limited

Avant Homes

Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council

Boots Plc

Buccleuch Property

Commercial Estates Group

Countryside Properties Plc

Derwent

Dorsia Homes

ETEL (Kwik Fit)

Gleeson Homes

Hallam Land Management Limited

Harworth Group Plc

Henry Boot Developments Limited

Invesco Real Estate

James Hall and Company Limited

Jaywing Plc

Lovell Partnerships

Litton Properties Limited

Select Property Group/Vita

Allison Homes Limited

The Restaurant Group (UK) Limited

Underwood Meat Company

Hannick Homes

Kirklees College

South Yorkshire Housing Association

Taylor Wimpey

The Greater Manchester Youth Federation

Property Capital Plc

Reed Smith LLP

Hall Brown Limited

Capital and Centric

ITM Power PLC

Work highlights

  • Advised Hallam Land Management Limited on the acquisition of significant residential and mixed-use development land in Swindon for up to 2,300 residential units with associated infrastructure.
  • Advised Hallam Land Management Limited on the sale of the first phase of a prominent multi-phase site for 250 residential units in Coventry, providing the gateway to a major new regeneration scheme.
  • Acting for Henry Boot Development Limited on the sale of Banner Cross Hall (a Grade II listed building) and negotiating a new headquarters lease in Sheffield’s flagship regeneration project, Heart of the City II.

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

Shoosmiths LLP's IT and technology team has extensive experience acting on procurement, outsourcing and transformational projects, where its specialist expertise in software development and deployment issues, data privacy work and AI regulatory matters is praised by clients. Practice head Alex Kirkhope assists with IT projects and joint ventures for clients across the automotive, retail and healthcare sectors, while also being a go-to name for AI advice. Other key members of the team are Lauren Midgley and Samantha Truckle, who frequently assist on technology related transactions.

Practice head(s):

Alex Kirkhope

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The Shoosmiths team provides invaluable support to our legal team. They advise us on specialist technology, outsourcing and data privacy matters where the team has particular expertise. Their advice is clear and pragmatic, and appropriate to the risk profile of a particular matter.’

‘Alex Kirkhope and Nick Taylor lead the team’s advice to us, and we’ve been delighted with their support, they have hit the ground running and act as an extension of our legal team, with particular expertise on technology and commercial contracts. They are responsive and adaptable to changing demands, and willing to go the extra mile where needed.’

‘Alex Kirkhope – very good experience in IT outsourcing and the unique thing for us is the depth of relationship going back many years.’

‘Experience and pragmatism of Alex Kirkhope.’

Key clients

Jaguar Land Rover

Lincolnshire County Council

Portakabin

Twenty7Tec Group

Volkswagen Group

Estee Lauder Companies

Close Brothers

Connexin

Service Express

Moorfield Group

Rightlander Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted for Jaguar Land Rover in relation to its £800m+ global IT transformation programme.
  • Advised Estee Lauder Companies in relation to its negotiations with OpenAI in respect of access to a new Enterprise instance of ChatGPT.
  • Acted for Lincolnshire County Council in relation to its procurement programme for Fire & Rescue Control systems.

Corporate and commercial > M&A: Smaller Deals, £10m-£100m Tier 3

Recognised for its commitment to understanding ‘the unique challenges and opportunities that each client faces,’ the corporate practice at Shoosmiths LLP is capable of handling complex multi-jurisdictional M&A transactions and advising on private equity and venture capital growth. The group has a deep experience acting in a variety of sectors including private equity, healthcare, and real estate. Ben Turner leads the department and is an expert in buy- and sell-side M&A deals, restructurings, and fundraisings, as well as private equity transactions. Venture capital and technology sector authority Steve Barnett is noted for his aptitude advising on venture and growth capital investments and M&A. Oliver Pilkington and Nick McCarthy focus on equity capital markets, while Elizabeth Ward and Kiran Dhesi stand out for their specialism in private equity.

Practice head(s):

Ben Turner

Testimonials

‘Elizabeth Ward is amazing. She has a wealth of experience and is one of the smartest people when it comes to PE backed deals. She knows her stuff and there is no one you would rather have support you as a client.’

‘Real strength in depth across the team, all begins with the quality of the senior partners and cascades down. At this end of the market you need sensible, commercial and pragmatic lawyers who get things done yet don’t compromise of the quality of the “legals” – they excel here.’

‘Shoosmiths stands out because it knows M&A law inside and out, but it also really understands the business side of things. This means they’re not just good lawyers; they’re also savvy about the business world, which is a big plus when you’re working through complex deals.’

‘This team really takes the time to understand what the top executives really need—even the things they might not say out loud. They’re great negotiators who know when to push and when to compromise, making sure their clients come out ahead.’

‘The team at Shoosmiths not only grasps the legal details but the whole business picture. This approach helps in crafting strategies that aren’t just legally sound, but also advantageous from a business standpoint. They’re not the kind to just jump in and out of a deal.’

‘Steve Barnett has been instrumental in several of our major negotiations, where his ability to anticipate our needs and the moves of the opposing side has proven invaluable. David Meisel also deserves mention for his meticulous attention to detail and his proactive approach.’

‘The team were superb. They were fully resourced, there were experts for the different areas we needed, they were commercial, the advice was great – and we could not have had a better team nor completed it without them.’

‘Oliver Pilkington was exceptional.’

Key clients

Ten Entertainment Group plc

Smoove plc

Harwood Capital/Harwood Private Equity

Rothschild & Co. – Five Arrows

Foresight Group LLP

Lightpoint Medical Limited

Dotdigital Group plc

Telent Technology Services Limited

Cavendish

Zeus Capital

Work highlights

  • Acting for Ten Entertainment Group plc on its proposed £287 million takeover by US private equity firm Trive Capital.
  • Acted as advisers to Rotala Group Ltd and its shareholders on a complex takeover of Rotala Plc.

Industry focus > Hospitality and leisure Tier 3

The cross-disciplinary hospitality and leisure offering at Shoosmiths LLP draws on the wider firm's sector and office footprint, incorporating real estate litigation, real estate, construction, banking, corporate, tax, data and regulatory capabilities. The interdisciplinary team's focus spans litigation, acquisitions, disposals, and redevelopments. The Leeds-based Richard Symonds co-heads the group alongside Manchester-based Kirsty Chalkley. The ‘experienced, knowledgeable and highly commercial’ Symonds is a key contact for real estate matters, encompassing construction, employment, commercial and regulatory issues. Chalkley is noted for her expertise in commercial development work, including forward funding transactions.

Practice head(s):

Richard Symonds; Kirsty Chalkley

Testimonials

‘Good knowledge and analysis combined with practical oversight.’

‘Richard Symonds is experienced, knowledgeable and highly commercial.’

‘They really know their stuff and are well respected amongst their peers at other firms.’

‘I have worked with Shoosmiths for three years and have really liked their pragmatic, professional approach to problem solving.’

‘Each member of the team I have worked with has been of the highest calibre.’

‘Kirsty Chalkley – simplifies issues and has a positive collaborative style of negotiating.’

 

Key clients

Marston’s PLC

Tingdene Holiday Parks Limited

Travelodge Hotels Limited

Crown Golf Course

Premier Inn (Whitbread Group PLC)

StayCity

Infinium Logistic Solutions Limited

McDonald’s Restaurants Ltd

AEW Europe

Downing LLP

The Third Space

Property Alliance Group

Starwood Capital Group Joint Venture.

Nikal Limited

Buckland Capital Limited

Individual – Russell Hulme

Arora Holdings Limited

Roomzzz and the Park Lane Group

Krispy Kreme (UK) Limited

Pizza Hut (UK) Limited

Vastint BV

Marston’s PLC

Tingdene Holiday Parks Limited

Travelodge Hotels Limited

Crown Golf Course

Premier Inn

StayCity

The Other House

The Restaurant Group

Eurogarages

Revolution Bars Group PLC

Lamington Group (t/a Room2 Hometels)

Work highlights

  • Acting on London acquisitions for The Third Space Group.
  • Acting for Lamington across all of its property portfolio needs across wider commercial requirements including financial restructuring.
  • Acting for Travelodge Hotels Limited to advise on its portfolio from real estate to procurement to regulatory advice.

Industry focus > TMT Tier 3

Described by one client as ‘incredibly effective‘, Shoosmiths LLP‘s focus spans artificial intelligence, blockchain and digital assets, wireless communication technology, and fintech, among other matters. The team is chaired by Joe Stephenson, who is noted for his expertise in procurement, with a particular focus on complex IT transformational projects and outsourcings. Both praised for their ‘experience and knowledge‘, Alex Kirkhope and Craig Armstrong are also key names on the team for outsourcing and IT-related work.

Practice head(s):

Joe Stephenson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The Shoosmiths teams I have worked with are always cohesive, work well together, and ensure efficient coordination in order to get a transaction done. Shoosmiths knows our precedents very well, and keeps up to date with what is market in the UK. ’

‘The Shoosmiths team we had supporting our project was scaled exactly right in terms of the experience and ability required.’

‘The team worked well together to ensure minimal duplication but ensure that all aspects of the deal were covered.’

‘They were also incredibly effective at working with us as an in-house legal team; so much so that they felt part of our team and, as time went on, we were very much advising as one. Our ability to support the business and impact the deal was so much stronger as a result of this approach.’

‘There were two key individuals that provided legal support to this project – Craig Armstrong and Alex Kirkhope. Each of them clearly have relevant experience and knowledge and quickly got up to speed with our key objectives and positions. They were particularly good at returning to those objectives and positions and ensuring that they flowed through the contract. They were also very present, by which I mean they were into the detail of the drafting, able to assess the impact of one part of the contracts on another and, in negotiations, often leading the discussion. They certainly rolled their sleeves up.’

Key clients

 

Jaguar Land Rover

Volkswagen Group United Kingdom

Estee Lauder Companies

Deliveroo

Compare the Market

Close Brothers

Motorway

Octopus Ventures

CDW

Stonegate Pubs

Global Switch

Nissan

Mercedes Benz

The White Company

Honda

Travelodge

ABN Amro

Volkswagen Financial Services

Rothschild & Co (Five Arrows, private equity arm)

Business Growth Fund

Five Arrows Long Term Fund

Gresham House

Oxford Capital

Triple Point

Livingbridge

Halma

Work highlights

  • Instructed by Dr Craig Wright on three underlying intellectual property claims.
  • Advises Jaguar Land Rover on its global digital transformation project with Tata Consultancy Services.
  • Advising Five Arrows Growth Capital and TA Associates on their acquisition of a majority stake in Agilio Software Topco Limited.

Real estate > Commercial property: corporate occupiers Tier 3

At Shoosmiths LLP, the group has ample experience in real estate portfolio management and asset management, and acquisitions and disposals, primarily acting for corporate occupiers and institutional funds. Joseph Mazzucca heads the practice and advises on landlord and tenant matters, development, and real estate finance. Liam Phillips is proficient in real estate relating to data centres, while William Seymour handles transactional real estate work, such as mixed-use developments and investment sales and acquisitions.

Practice head(s):

Joseph Mazzucca

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths are particularly commercial and provide strategic advice with the ability to take a step back and focus on what matters. They are quick to respond and nice people to deal with.’

Key clients

McArthurGlen Group

Frasers Property

Berkeley Homes

Currys PLC

Holland & Barrett

Global Switch Limited

Proximity Data Centres Limited

Telereal Trillium Limited

Ralph Lauren UK Limited

Petchey Holdings Limited

Artmax Property Limited

Invesco Real Estate

Sosei Heptares / Heptares Therapeutics Limited

Bluecastle Capital

Attic Self Storage

Iron Mountain Data Centres

O&H Properties

Union Investment GmbH

BPP Holdings Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising McArthurGlen Group in relation to its UK asset management and associated work.
  • Advising BPP Holdings Limited on its relocation from its existing London Wall site to new premises at One Portsoken Street, London E1.
  • Acting for Union Investments in respect of the letting of Ground Floor East, 3rd and 4th Floors, 55 Colmore Row, Birmingham, as currently let to WeWork.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Intellectual property: trade marks, copyright and design Tier 3

The core streams of work for Shoosmiths LLP encompass cross-border brand enforcement, anti-counterfeiting, and brand strategy, operating across a multitude of industries that span the retail, sport, and technology sectors. Andrew Brennan heads up the group, recently managing IP elements of transactional work, design infringement claims, and strategic IP mandates, while Antony Craggs, who joined the practice from Lewis Silkin in August 2023, brings with him substantive expertise in the IPEC and High Court surrounding trade mark and design issues. Gary Assim bolsters the team with his international scale expertise, while Anastasia Fowle adds her strengths in the contentious arena to the group.

Practice head(s):

Andrew Brennan

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths has a very able IP practice that is able to handle a significant variety of matters.’

‘The team has significant depth of personnel to deliver advice.’

‘Good People to deal with. Very committed and professional using all the modern tools of communication.’

‘Anthony Craggs is very professional.’

‘Andrew Brennan is extremely experienced and practical with his advice.’

Key clients

AK Retail

Reliance Brands

Bugatti Automobiles SAS

Volkswagen Group United Kingdom Limited

Mercedes Benz

Khalil Bachir and Alexander Wurz

H&M

Capita Plc

Ann Summers

Next Retail

Brooks Sports

Topps Tiles

Checkatrade

Hamleys

Work highlights

  • Advising Indian retail giant Reliance Brands on the acquisition of majority ownership of Superdry’s intellectual property assets in the “Superdry” brand for the India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh territories via a licensing joint venture.
  • Advising BICC Components Advising on a claim for trade mark infringement in relation to the manufacture and sale of cable accessories before the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court.
  • Advising AK Retail on a claim for trade mark infringement and passing off in relation to the trade mark YOURS by the use of the sign YOURS CURVY before the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Manchester Tier 3

Shoosmiths LLP’s practice covers a wide range of commercial disputes, including shareholder and joint venture issues, insurance disputes, and technology-related claims. Practice co-head Jonathon Crook has considerable experience in the banking, financial services, and finance sectors, while fellow co-head Richard Marshall, who has a focus on insurance policy litigation, has recently been focusing on cladding-related disputes following his involvement in the Grenfell Inquiry. Andrew Whalley, who joined the team in November 2023 from DWF, has notable expertise in data breach claims and technology disputes, and Matthew Brown handles insurance policy coverage disputes and building claims. Sylwena Sempa focuses on cases concerning pensions, phone hacking issues and employment disputes.

Practice head(s):

Jonathon Crook; Richard Marshall

Other key lawyers:

Andrew Whalley; Matthew Brown; Sylwena Sempa; Lyndsay Crowder-Barton; Sarah Rigby

Testimonials

‘A compact and dynamic team that punches well above its weight and outpaces larger competitors. A combination of huge drive and experience, with an intensely commercial focus, ensures the best results for its clients.’

‘Richard Marshall – Very accomplished litigator with a very astute eye for the key issues in a case. Matthew Brown – Very capable and incisive. A close eye for the detail in a case that matters, combined with a very sound commercial instinct. Sarah Rigby – One to watch.’

‘The Shoosmiths commercial litigation department in Manchester is excellent. It has particular experience in handling the highest value, most complex commercial disputes arising out of the insurance, construction and property management industries. Its team members are technically excellent, hard-working, tenacious and focused on delivering success for their clients, who are generally leading multi-national corporations. They are also a delight to work with. Richard Marshall and Sarah Rigby are notably outstanding.’

‘Richard Marshall is an outstanding partner who is hugely experienced, technically able, creative and a delight to work with. He exudes authority and experience. He understandably has a great following of loyal clients.’

‘A heavyweight team acting in major disputes for large corporates.’

‘Andrew Whalley – highly experienced, able and pragmatic litigator.’

‘Sylwena Sempa – clever, thorough and responsive.’

‘Jonathon Crook is very personable and knowledgeable. Always able to provide engagement and support in a very clear concise way.’

Key clients

ProAmpac Group

Domain Transport Limited

Continuum Financial Services LLP

MegaGroup BV

Amway

Virgin Media O2

French Connection

Hoover Limited

Extreme E Limited

Work highlights

  • Representing AmTrust Europe Limited in the defence of a High Court claim for £17m relating to defective cladding and fire stopping on two tower blocks.
  • Representing PSB UK Limited via insurers Chubb at the Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry for both phase 1 and 2.
  • Representing Hoover Limited (part of Haier plc) as sole UK legal adviser on product liability claims.

Employment Tier 3

With broad employment expertise, Shoosmiths LLP's team in Manchester has particular expertise representing corporate clients in Employment Tribunal litigation. Practice head Emma Morgan has extensive experience with a range of employment issues, and is also an immigration specialist praised by clients as ‘pragmatic, commercial, sharp and strategically minded'. Another key lawyer is Amy Anderson, and she specialises in defending Employment Tribunal claims and is ‘an expert in her field’.

Practice head(s):

Emma Morgan

Other key lawyers:

Amy Anderson; Lauren Bhole

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths are a really collaborative firm, going the extra mile to embed themselves in their client’s business and understand its needs.’

‘The Shoosmiths team put client care at the heart of their service delivery. They take time to understand the operation and personalities meaning their advice is bespoke, strategic and aligned with the organisation’s aims and values.’

‘The impressive Emma Morgan is pragmatic, commercial, sharp and strategically minded. Emma is a straight talker, so equally comfortable with operations, HR and in-house legal. Emma’s clear direction and leadership of the team is apparent and her expectations as to quality resonate from the rest of the team.’

‘They are well-rounded and grounded lawyers that do a good job at a good value. They have the personal skills to manage and interact with people of various positions and backgrounds and they understand and appreciate the varying challenges and priorities of different areas of the business.’

‘Emma Morgan has the ability to understand and know the business, and in particular its strengths and weaknesses and understanding what a good outcome is.’

‘Amy Anderson forms an essential part of the team and is an expert in her field.’

‘The team at Shoosmiths are first-class.’

‘Lauren Bhole’s cases are always exceptionally well prepared. A real star of the future.’

Key clients

South Staffordshire College

Royal Institute of British Architects

CityFibre Holdings Limited

Mawdsley Group Investments Limited

Lottoland

Apparel Brands Limited

Snag Group Limited

Endless LLP

WeWork

Work highlights

  • Assisted Endless LLP on the employment aspects of an expedited cross office and group transaction.

Employment > Pensions Tier 3

Praised as ‘practical and commercial', Shoosmiths LLP in Manchester is experienced in the full spectrum of pension matters. The group advises employers, professional trustees of occupational pension schemes, and trustees of master trust arrangements on issues such as scheme mergers, buy-in and buyout projects, restructurings, and GMP equalisation. The group includes pensions expert Paul Carney, who has ‘a remarkable ability to communicate complex legal issues in a clear and concise manner to lay trustees', and Alexandra Ventham, who advises employers and trustees of occupational pension and life assurance schemes on the full spectrum of pensions law.

Practice head(s):

David Thompson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Personal service.’

‘Friendly and they explain everything in layman’s language.’

‘I highly recommend Paul Carney. He has been an invaluable advisor to us in both a buy-in and a buyout transaction. He has a remarkable ability to communicate complex legal issues in a clear and concise manner to lay trustees. He is always responsive and timely in his delivery of advice and documents.’

‘Paul Carney is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion and actively participates in mentoring initiatives within the firm. He also has excellent rapport with the pension scheme administrators and works collaboratively with them to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the scheme. Paul is a superb lawyer and a trusted partner.’

‘Practical and commercial.’

‘Paul Carney was immediately on the same wave-length as us and a joy to work with.’

‘The work we receive from Shoosmiths is consistently good and the service overall is of a high standard.’

‘Paul Carney is a pleasure to work with. Paul will always make himself available for calls and he works well with colleagues across the group, explaining complex pension legislation in a practical manner and applying it to our circumstances. Paul’s work is of an excellent quality. He has high standards and excellent attention to detail.’

Key clients

Trustees of the Hexcel Composites Pension Scheme

Trustees of the NPT

Stellantis (PSA)

Elior UK Limited

Trustees of the Guardian Media Group legacy pension schemes

Trustees of the British Salt Pension Scheme

Trustees of the Evergreen Pension Plan

Work highlights

  • Advising the trustees of the NPT (Project Nexus) on the £42.5m acquisition of the NPT master trust by SEI.
  • Advised the trustees of the Hexcel Composites Pension Scheme on two buy-in projects and the buyout of the DB Section of the Scheme.
  • Advised Entrust Pension Limited as an independent trustee of the NOV – Stanplan F Plan on its buy-in project.

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 3

The group at Shoosmiths LLP is led by ‘top-class’ real estate finance specialist Liz Sweeney in Manchester. The team's workload includes high-value development finance agreements, an area in which Sam Jadhav and Alice Casey have a great deal of experience. Debra Cooper departed the practice in April 2023.

Practice head(s):

Liz Sweeney

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Nothing is too much trouble. They own a transaction and take me through every step of the way.’

‘If there is something I need clarity on they have no hesitation in talking me through the salient points. I have one point of contact for a transaction which makes my life a lot easier. They own the transaction and take me through every step of the way.’

‘Liz Sweeney goes above and beyond what is required. She takes the time to get to know not only the transaction but also my clients behind the transaction; answers my queries and her knowledge of the sector is highly impressive. ’

‘The people and the availability they provide is what makes the team great – this level of service is seen across the entire of the Shoosmiths team I have had to deal with. The team is incredibly approachable, have an incredible attention-to-detail and always take the time to explain things very carefully. Overall, they provide great value for money.’

‘It’s the attention-to-detail, approachability and openness to explain things without rushing that stand out. Liz Sweeny and Alice Casey have been instrumental guiding us through some intricate finance documents with regards to our biggest residential funding to date.’

‘Excellent people and systems.’

‘Liz Sweeney is a top-class lawyer.’

Key clients

Deloitte

Moorfield group

Select Property Group

Vita Ventures

Hudd Student Living Limited

Kellen Homes

House of Social One Limited

The Co-operative Bank

Together Money

Birchwood Real Estate

Work highlights

  • Advised Renaker on their £120m Development Finance Facility from Greater Manchester Combined Authority for the development of Bankside, Salford and Trinity Islands, Manchester.
  • Advised Moorfield Group in respect of a £71m development facility agreement with CBRE Loan Services Limited.
  • Advised Vita Student Assets Limited on a £30m development finance facility from PGIM.

Insurance > Professional negligence Tier 3

Shoosmiths LLP‘s team routinely acts in a range of construction and product liability professional negligence claims, working as part of the firm’s national network. ‘Very accomplished‘ litigator Richard Marshall leads the team, and is known for his deep knowledge of defective product design issues which result in serious damage. Matthew Brown is a key name within the team for building disputes, acting before the Technology and Construction Court, particularly in relation to cladding issues.

Practice head(s):

Richard Marshall

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘A compact and very accomplished team of litigators with huge experience in this area that places them well ahead of most of their competitors. Rigorous, with very astute commercial judgement ensures excellent results for their clients. ’

‘Richard Marshall is a very accomplished litigator with a wealth of experience. Intensely commercial with a focus on the issues that matter. Matthew Brown is very bright and capable. Good to have on board in a difficult case.’

Key clients

Comparethemarket.com

Hoover Limited

MD Insurance Services Limited

PSB UK Limited

HDI Gerling Insurance Company

AmTrust Europe Ltd

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Hall

Work highlights

  • Representing PSB UK Limited (via insurers Chubb), in the Grenfell Tower Public Inquiry for both Phase 1 and 2 and related civil actions.
  • Acting for Hoover Candy (part of Haier plc) in product liability claims where professional negligence is alleged.
  • Acting for structural warranty insurer AmTrust Europe Ltd in high-value cladding claims, including the defence of a High Court claim for c.£17m relating to defective cladding and fire stopping on two tower blocks.

Real estate > Construction Tier 3

The construction practice at Shoosmiths LLP is led by Ian Hardman; Hardman’s workload includes assisting clients with complex contracts, and advising on large-scale projects. Construction disputes specialist Jody Kite joined the team in September 2023, bringing his experience in handling engineering, infrastructure, and construction disputes. Former team lead John Cleaveley left the firm in December 2023.

Practice head(s):

Ian Hardman

Other key lawyers:

Stephanie Macpherson; Jody Kite; Katie Rich

Testimonials

‘Very hands-on partners who manage expectations and deliver on promises.’

‘Honest and open in their dealings, knowledgeable and approachable.’

Key clients

Select Property

Affinity Living

Cityheart

H20 Urban

Ask Real Estate

Muse

Peel Ports

Kellen Homes

T J Morris

Lovell Partnerships

Conde Nast

Real estate > Property litigation Tier 3

The property litigation team at Shoosmiths LLP is well-equipped to handle disputes that arise from the transfer of properties, and landlord and tenant issues, such as high-value dilapidation claims. Kirsty Black, hailed as ‘the queen of work for retailers’, leads the team from the Manchester office. Ashona Chakraborty is recommended for her ‘efficiency and experience’.

Practice head(s):

Kirsty Black

Other key lawyers:

Ashona Chakraborty; Sophie Tracey; Emily Holt; Anjali Patel

Testimonials

‘What a fantastic team! Top quality through and through. Excellent clients, legal analysis and client care.’

‘Ashona Chakraborty is highly recommended, making her way up in the property sphere – I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her for her efficiency and experience.’

‘Competent and responsive, offering common sense advice.’

‘The individuals I have worked with in the property litigation team, most notably Sophie Tracey, are responsive, highly capable and client-focused.’

‘A partner-led team we call on when we need expertise and get the proper resource every time.’

‘Kirsty Black is an excellent lawyer.’

‘Kirsty Black is the queen of work for retailers, especially household names. She justifiably inspires confidence from the most demanding of clients.’

Key clients

Allied London LLP

Anywl Homes

Anywl Land Limited

Anwyl Construction

Bellway Homes

Bolton Council

Buccleuch Group

Cole Waterhouse

Countryside Partnerships

Dixons Carphone

Estee Lauder Cosmetics

Euro Garages

Frasers Group

Henry Boot Developments

Holland and Barratt

Humberside Airport

Landmark Investments

Mountain Warehouse

Muse Developments

Peel Group

Property Alliance Group

Select Property Group

Shoezone Retail Limited

St Modwen Properties Plc

Taylor Wimpey

The Restaurant Group

Travelodge Hotels Limited

Walgreen Boots Alliance

Wain Homes

Work highlights

  • Advised numerous occupier clients, including Frasers and Boots, on their strategy to deal with RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) across their portfolios.
  • Acted for the administrators of Wilko to deal with the property aspects arising out of the administration including dealing with the solicitors acting for Poundland and B&M who both took numerous stores out of the administration.
  • Advising Hallam Land on preventing a Just Stop Oil protest from derailing a multi-million pound development.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 3

Praised by clients for its ‘superb in-depth knowledge‘, Shoosmiths LLP maintains its strong focus on the financial services and e-commerce sectors, notably acting for Stonegate and Deliveroo. Practice co-head Andrew Whalley joined the group from DWF in November 2023, contributing his vast knowledge of tech and telecoms disputes, and data breach claims. Co-head Luke Stubbs leads the firm’s fintech group, handling a broad range of issues concerning payment services, IT platforms, and data protection compliance.

Practice head(s):

Luke Stubbs; Andrew Whalley

Other key lawyers:

Christian Cockroft

Testimonials

‘Superb in-depth knowledge.’

‘Luke Stubbs is excellent in finding a practical way through any sticking points.’

‘Exceptional service and value driven.’

‘Honest, great listeners and deliver value.’

‘The team were incredibly supportive and knowledgeable in a work stream that we worked together on. They really helped with bringing the actions forward and moving things along.’

‘Christian Cockcroft is competent and knowledgeable.’

Key clients

Two B2B Limited

Volkswagen Group

ABN Amro

Dealsplus

Deliveroo

B&M Retail

Elementar

Jensten Group

Lifeways

Stonegate

Unisystems

Volkswagen Financial Services

Virgin Media O2

Work highlights

  • Acting for Stonegate in its roll-out of a new customer app based loyalty system including payment card linking.
  • Advising an engineering business and its group companies on a range of technology related matters include the procurement of a new payroll system and a new ERP solution.
  • Advising a European Bank on the terms of a new procurement of a payment verification system as part of the “Confirmation of Payee” scheme.

Northern Ireland > Dispute resolution Tier 3

Shoosmiths LLP is well known for its work in financial services litigation, as well as professional negligence and debt recovery cases. Outside financial work, the practice has been expanding in the energy sector, working on judicial reviews and injunctive proceedings regarding windfarms and energy-from-waste facilities. In January 2024, principal associate Ciaran McCorry joined the firm from A&L Goodbody Northern Ireland LLP and specialises in contractual, corporate, real estate and professional negligence claims, while Emma Wightman focuses on financial services litigation. Former practice head Gillian Crotty departed to Teacher Stern LLP in 2024.

Other key lawyers:

Emma Wrightman; Ciaran McCorry

Testimonials

‘As a relatively new entry into the Northern Irish market, this firm has made a significant impact on the local market. It is set apart for its local competitors as it is able to draw on its national presence to offer comprehensive end to end advice to many SMEs in the region.’

‘Ciaran McCorry was impeccable – his work was thorough and well-prepared. ’

‘I’ve worked with Ciaran McCorry for a number of years now and found him to be very professional, engaging, and he always strives to get the best outcome for his clients.’

Key clients

ASDA Stores Limited

Subway

Northern Ireland Housing Executive

NatWest Group

Choice Housing Ireland Ltd

Boots UK Limited

Ulster Bank Limited

ABO Wind NI

Volkswagen Group UK plc

Leeds Building Society

First Title Insurance plc

Revolution Bars Group Plc

Work highlights

  • Acting for Bluesky Resource Recovery Limited in relation to a high value and complex corporate dispute with NWP Limited.

Projects, energy and natural resources > Energy and projects Tier 3

Shoosmiths LLP Belfast focuses on the banking and corporate side of energy and infrastructure work, while the London office deals with relevant energy advisory work. Grant Edwards leads the practice. Edwards specialises in M&A work, and often advises energy clients on infrastructure acquisitions, financings, and refinancings.

Practice head(s):

Grant Edwards

Testimonials

‘Efficient, available and practicable’

‘Available and pragmatic’

 

Key clients

Iona Capital Limited

EnergieKontor

ABO Wind

Capital Dynamics

MPG Wind (development entity) and MPG Energy (O&M entity)

Green Energy Hub

ReGen Waste

Industrial Finance and Leasing Limited

LBBW

Deepbridge Capital LLP

Work highlights

Finance > Banking and finance Tier 3

Shoosmiths LLP advises on real estate and development financing mandates, and works with a number of key developers, investors and multinationals in the Scottish market. The firm also has a growing body of work relating to asset based lending, and is also a notable name in the market for Islamic finance matters. Team lead Fiona Cameron has a broad national offering and is well versed in all manner of financing deals, frequently acting as a port of call for major clearing and challenger banks. Sheelagh Cooley leverages long-standing real estate finance expertise to advise a growing roster of lenders and borrowers on multi-jurisdictional transactions.

Practice head(s):

Fiona Cameron; Sheelagh Cooley

Testimonials

‘The team at Shoosmiths LLP exude professionalism. They are diligent, focused and considerate.’

‘As with any good working relationship, the people are the key. Sheelagh Cooley is very easy to deal with and manages to discuss complex topics in a simple manner, a true skill of someone who knows their job incredibly well.’

Key clients

National Westminster Bank trading as Ulster Bank

Moorfield Group Limited

HSBC UK Bank plc

Investec Bank Plc

Cinnamon Care Capital

AGG Capital Management

Avant Homes

Gresham House

Astir Living Limited

Ultimate Finance

Cohort Capital

Al Mubarakia

Micota Capital

Work highlights

  • Acting for Ulster Bank in connection with funding provided for the borrower’s acquisition of Forestside Shopping Centre in Belfast alongside a refinance of existing facilities secured by multiple properties across the UK.
  • Acting for Moorfield Group in relation to funding obtained by it from Investec Bank plc for a 300-bed student accommodation development in Lincoln.
  • Acting for Balia Limited in respect of a £72m development facility agreement with Puma Finance for the purpose of developing a 790 unit purpose built student accommodation scheme and 19 townhouses (together with ancillary and retail facilities) in Nottingham.

Finance > Insolvency and corporate recovery Tier 3

Shoosmiths LLP utilises ‘intellectual prowess’ to effectively navigate ‘complex legal challenges’, and act for trustees, administrators, corporates, and high-net-worth individuals on a variety of issues in the insolvency and restructurings space. The firm has seen a noticeable uptick in litigation instructions, and team lead Stuart Clubb, who is lauded by clients as ‘one of best insolvency lawyers working in Scotland today’ with a ‘brilliant technical mind’, has established himself as a key litigation lawyer for insolvency practitioners. Andrew Foyle, another esteemed litigator, is active on a broad range of mandates including conducting examinations, assessing the validity of administrator appointments, and initiating court action of the behalf of trustees and company directors.

Practice head(s):

Stuart Clubb

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘UK wide practice with the ability to deal with any insolvency or restructuring matter quickly, commercially and proficiently.’

‘Stuart Clubb is a brilliant technical mind, who is always up to speed on all the latest developments in the insolvency and restructuring world. Approachable and takes a commercial, collaborative approach to any matters in order to provide the best solution for all parties. Stuart would be one of my first stops for any complex insolvency matters and without a doubt is one of best insolvency lawyers working in Scotland today.’

‘The Shoosmiths’ team have a solid foundation of knowledge in the sector, which puts them ahead in terms of practical ability.’

‘Shoosmiths is a legal firm that combines a friendly demeanor with strong intellectual prowess which presents a unique blend that sets it apart in the competitive landscape of dispute resolution. This makes for an enjoyable client experience knowing that the firm can navigate complex legal challenges successfully.’

‘Stuart Clubb has a unique blend of accessibility, intellectual acumen and an extensive network. He ensures that his approachability does not compromise the depth and sharpness of his legal strategies. This ability to demystify complex legal processes and communicate them in an understandable manner distinguishes him from many of his competitors.’

‘Stuart Clubb, who heads up the insolvency team, is very knowledgeable about insolvency law which is very important for us when instructing solicitors. He is an excellent litigator, responsive and proactive. A pleasure to work with.’

Key clients

Manolete Partners Plc

AAB

French Duncan

Grant Thornton

Johnston Carmichael

Interpath

Azets

Begbies Traynor

Middlebrooks

Work highlights

  • Acting on behalf of Administrators in the disposal of a property portfolio comprising a number of commercial properties and development land.
  • Acting on behalf of the leading insolvency claims acquisition company in the pursuit of a high value claim against a former director for misfeasance and breach of director’s duties.
  • Acting in the liquidation of a high-profile Scottish charity.

Private client > Charities and not-for-profit Tier 3

Shoosmiths LLP is well-versed in contentious matters for charities, especially around probate and legacies. On the non-contentious side, the firm also advises on commercial and employment issues in addition to charity law matters. Spearheading the practice, Angela Bowman is ‘able to handle high-pressure instructions’ in relation to contested wills and trusts. Kevin McCavish specialises in employment advice for leading UK charities in the arts, healthcare and conservation sectors.

Practice head(s):

Angela Bowman

Other key lawyers:

Kevin McCavish; Suzanne Burrell; Alex Lloyd

Testimonials

‘Angela Bowman is very experienced in trusts and estates matters; she is able to handle high-pressure instructions and is very good at client handling.’

‘There is a vast extent of experience within the team, working with charities for many years. They also understand the varying needs of different size charities, from local hospices to major national charities and balance these when dealing with estates.’

‘Angela Bowman always deals with matters in a professional yet personable way, helping to ensure contentious issues are dealt with in as non-adversarial a manner as possible, retaining the charities’ reputation whilst protecting their interests.’

‘The team are very approachable creating a partnership rather than a strict traditional business relationship.’

‘Shoosmiths are a large national firm so can field a lot of expertise across a wide range of specialisms.’

Key clients

Cancer Research

Macmillan Cancer Support

Parkinson’s UK

The National Trust

RSPB

Dogs Trust

Cats Protection

Blue Cross

The Donkey Sanctuary

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association

Diabetes UK

Diocese of Westminster

Age UK

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People

Union Jack Club

Canine Partners

St Wildred’s Hospice

Mary Ward Centre

National Lottery Community Group

Centre for Homelessness Impact

RNIB

Work highlights

  • Drafted and advised on the new suite of template public procurement documentation for the National Lottery Community Fund.
  • Provide ongoing pensions law advice and support to the RNIB Pension Scheme Trustees.
  • Advised the Centre for Homelessness Impact in connection with a Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities-funded project for the provision of systems-wide evaluation of homelessness and rough sleeping services.

Employment Tier 3

The 'professional' Nick Vernon, who 'has his clients' best interests at heart and works hard to find a solution', now spearheads the employment practice at Shoosmiths LLP, as Charlie Rae has moved to TLT. Vernon advises businesses on the full range of contentious and non-contentious employment matters. Areas of expertise include advising on business-critical/senior executive hires, as well as complicated TUPE matters. Clients are predominantly large companies and organisations, but the firm also acts for senior executives.

Practice head(s):

Nick Vernon

Other key lawyers:

Laura Wright; Pav Clair; Michelle Clark; Stephanie Pye; Jo Tunnicliff

Testimonials

‘Laura Wright, Steph Pye and Michelle Clark are very helpful, informative, and have helped with different issues of varying complexity. They are responsive, approachable and available.’

‘Nick Vernon has taken the time to understand our business so that the advice he gives is tailored to us. Nick provides good sound advice in a no-nonsense way.’

‘Jo Tunnicliff – I find her quick to respond and pragmatic in her approach. Jo has taken the time to understand our business dynamic and culture which enables her to give advice that is practical and with a commercial consideration.’

‘The organisation is very responsive, accessible, engaged and they communicate promptly. The organisation has a good level of organisational knowledge and an understanding of how we operate and the advice received is always pragmatic.’

‘Pav Clair has been nothing short of excellent in his continued support, his relentless pursuit of solutions. ’

‘The practice has a unique ability to scale up resource quickly and at short notice, collaborating together to pull out all the stops when something is needed urgently.’

‘Nick Vernon possesses a real ability to simplify complex legal concepts to ensure clarity in discussions. His pragmatic approach emphasises proactive problem solving and prioritises practical solutions. Nick consistently delivers a first-class service.’

‘Michelle Clarke demonstrates exceptional pragmatism, consistently offering valuable advice when faced with complex challenges.’

Key clients

Kuehne + Nagel

Aramark

The Law Society

Virgin Media O2

Freight Investor Services

Jensten Group

Randstad Solutions

Linnaeus Group

The National Exhibition Centre

Royal Institute of British Architects

Idverde Limited

PRS for Music

Forest Garden

Work highlights

  • Advised the administrators of high-street retailer Wilko on the copious employment issues relating to the administration (involving over 12,000 employees).
  • Supported a major client with an organisation-wide restructure exercise, which resulted in over 1,000 redundancies.
  • Provided extensive advice to a locally prominent organisation on a complex and sensitive grievance and counter grievance raised by senior managers involving allegations of discrimination, bullying and whistleblowing.

Employment > Pensions Tier 3

At Shoosmiths LLP the 'very competent' Lynette Lewis has been involved in several complex transactions involving defined benefit pensions schemes. Lewis continues to act for both trustees and employers. National head of pensions David Thompson is also well-regarded. The team is recommended for its work on scheme mergers, buy-in projects and other areas such as rule amendments and scheme restructurings.

Practice head(s):

David Thompson; Lynette Lewis

Testimonials

‘We use Shoosmiths for support on buy-in and buy-out policies for corporate pension schemes where they are particularly strong.’

‘Lynette Lewis is our go-to partner on buy-in and buy-out work. She is excellent, combining detailed legal knowledge with commercial awareness and pragmatism.’

Key clients

Trustee of the Essar Oil UK Pension Scheme

Next plc

Mettler-Toledo Pension Scheme

Copewell Limited

Trustee of the Everis Section of the Prudential Platinum Pension

Vidett Trustees

John Deere

Blanc Aero Industries UK Ltd Retirement Benefit Scheme

Real estate > Commercial property: Birmingham Tier 3

Able to ‘seamlessly’ work as part of the team, Shoosmiths LLP supports clients on all their real estate needs, including commercial development, corporate occupiers, finance and investment. Jason Jackson, the practice head, has a ‘stand out reputation’ and is experienced in development, investment and finance advice. Tim Flight is knowledgeable in the care home, student housing and healthcare sectors. It was announced in January 2024 that Chris Morris had joined the practice from Gowling WLG .

Practice head(s):

Jason Jackson

Other key lawyers:

Tim Flight; Chris Morris; James Needham

Testimonials

‘They work seamlessly as part of a team.’

‘A scalable offering covering all real estate specialities.’

‘Shoosmiths provide excellent client care and service levels.’

‘Jason Jackson is an excellent lawyer and has a stand out reputation in the Midlands Market.’

‘Tim Flight is an excellent commercial property partner at Shoosmiths. Tim provides pragmatic commercial property advice in a timely manner, having a methodical approach to unravelling complicated commercial property matters.’

Key clients

Newlands Property Developments LLP

Stoford Properties Limited

Nurton Developments Limited

Manor Oak Homes Limited

Maximus Group Limited

Tanglewood Care

Birmingham Properties Group

Aytan Holdings

Parch Estates

Lasercare Clincs (Harrogate) Limited

GXO Logistics UK Limited

American Golf (Trading) Limited

One Stop Stores Limited

Accident Exchange Limited

Aramark Limited

Stellantis

The Foschini Group

London + Regional Properties Limited

Platform Housing Limited

Muir Group Housing Association Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising SAV Group and Birmingham Properties Group on their acquisition of Gracechurch Shopping Centre, Royal Sutton Coldfield.
  • Advising developer, Stoford Developments Limited on one of the few genuinely forward funded transactions of 2023.
  • Acting for long-standing client Poundland Limited on the acquisition of a significant number of Wilko store leases from Wilko’s administrator PwC together with direct deals with landlords from the Wilko’s portfolio.

Real estate > Social housing Tier 3

Headed by Birmingham-based David Perry, the specialist lawyers at Shoosmiths LLP have vast experience of advising clients on all aspects of housing management, litigation and employment issues. Perry sits as the national head of affordable housing, covering the whole gamut of acquisitions, disposals and developments. Stuart Tym  and John Cleaveley left the firm in August and October 2023.

Practice head(s):

David Perry

Key clients

Platform Housing Group

Midland Heart Limited

Clarion Housing Group

L&Q

A2Dominion

Muir Group Housing Association

Bromsgrove District Housing Trust

Two Rivers Housing

Walsall Housing Group

Fairhive Homes Limited

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire Tier 3

From contractual claims to equality law disputes and minority shareholder disputes, Shoosmiths LLP is instructed by a range of  limited companies in sectors from automotive to media. The team is praised by clients for punching ‘well above its weight in terms of client base and quality of work.’ Jonathan Mills is lauded for his ‘exceptionally strong practice in financial services litigation’. David Farnell departed to Keystone Law in October 2024.

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team punch well above its weight in terms of client base and quality of work. They have a number of very well-respected fee-earners, all of whom are engaged with wider commercial/legal risks.’

‘My main contact is Jonathan Mills. Since joining Shoosmiths he has built an exceptionally strong practice in financial services litigation. He is dynamic, engaged and highly personable, with an excellent view of wider risks and issues for his clients.’

‘In my experience, what makes the Shoosmiths team unique is the combination of experience, judgment, organisation and client care that it brings to matters.’

‘Excellent, clear, well thought out commercial advice given in timely manner.’

Key clients

Capita PLC

United Group Housing Limited

Bibby Factors Limited

Bibby Financial Services Limited

Bibby Leasing Limited

Bibby Trade Factors Limited

Boots Management Services Limited

Henderson & Jones Limited

The Other Planet Media Limited

We Buy Any Car Limited

Yamazaki Mazak UK Limited

Real estate > Construction Tier 3

Shoosmiths LLP primarily handles non-contentious construction work across a broad range of real estate types including residential, later living and student accommodation properties, hotels and offices. The team often drafts and negotiates construction documentation as part of large development projects alongside the firm's nationwide real estate department. Rick Atha leads the practice and has recently been involved in a significant buy-to-rent development in central Manchester for Moorfield Group Limited. Christine Burrows is also noted.

Practice head(s):

Rick Atha

Other key lawyers:

Christine Burrows; Helen Bridgman

Testimonials

‘The team are very user friendly, break things down into manageable pieces which they explain with ease and are always very proactive.’

‘They are just great people to work with – we have built up a relationship with over a number of years, and we would not want to break out from that. In particular Christine Burrows and Helen Bridgman.’

‘My experience is with the Construction team. They are extremely pragmatic and responsive to the project requirements and issues.’

‘Shoosmiths have a good spread of different levels of experience that work well together and allow work to be carried out cost effectively.’

‘Rick Atha is very knowledgeable and pushes hard for his clients.’

‘The people and the availability they provide is what makes the team great – this level of service is seen across the entire Shoosmith’s team I have had to deal with. The team is incredibly approachable, have an incredible attention to detail and always take the time to explain things very carefully.’

‘It’s the attention to detail, their approachability and their openness to explain things without rushing. Rick Atha provides incredible comfort. He is fully into the detail and thinks outside the box – I wouldn’t want anyone else looking through the construction documents!

‘We work with a great team at Shoosmiths who are experienced in the sector. They are proactive and work with us collaboratively to ensure we get the best results.’

Key clients

Moorfield Group Limited

Apollo Management International LLP

Hudd Student Living Limited

Deansgate SOF Alliance/Starwood Group Limited

The Other House

Akoya (part of Feldberg Capital GMBH)

Leftfield Logistics Limited

Tanglewood Care Services Limited/Origin Care Homes

Harworth Estates Investments

Cinnamon Care Capital Limited

INGKA Centres Services AB

Gilltown Limited & Barnwell Gate Limited

National Westminster Bank plc

Travelodge Hotels Limited

Travel Sector Property Limited

Newcastle United Football

IKEA Properties Investments Limited

The Third Space Group Limited

Packaged Living/Fiera Real Estate

Extra MSA Group Limited

Peugeot Motor Group

Highwood Residential Limited

Prime (UK) Developments Limited

Cinos Limited

Welborne Land Limited

Northwood Investors

ReForm Fund Limited Partnership (part of Feldberg Capital GMBH)

Work highlights

  • Advised Moorfield on the forward funding of a new £100m 440-unit PRS development at the former Kellogg’s site in central Manchester (Trafford).
  • Acted for an institutional investor/pension fund in relation to its investment in single family housing schemes in the build to rent sector.
  • Advised Apollo Management International LLP (and its security agent) on providing finance to Cain International in relation to the property and construction aspects of a £500m PBSA deal across five major UK university cities, including Leeds.

Dispute resolution > Costs lawyers Tier 3

Shoosmiths LLP‘s costs team works closely with the firm’s serious injury group and is adept at dealing with the costs arising from high-value and complex clinical negligence litigation. In addition, the team is increasingly being instructed on high-profile commercial disputes. The team is headed up by Andy Sinclair, who has an ‘in-depth knowledge of the costs area‘.

Practice head(s):

Andy Sinclair

Testimonials

‘Excellent and reliable on costs.’

‘Andy Sinclair is an excellent costs lawyer – quick, responsive, thorough and creative, with an in-depth knowledge of this area.’

Key clients

Mogers Drewett Solicitors

More than 100 Claimants in the Mobile Telephone Hacking Litigation

Work highlights

Corporate and commercial > Commercial contracts Tier 4

Shoosmiths LLP, described as ‘pragmatic with great breadth and depth of expertise‘, has a broad commercial contracts practice, but operates at the forefront of the logistics sector and is often active in the automotive sector, where it is regularly instructed by automotive manufacturers. Automotive industry expert Robin Webb and Michelle Craven-Faulkner are the duo leading the team; the latter is key to the group’s advice on supply chain agreements. Another growing area of strength for the group is contracts related to public procurement. Simon McArdle is active in the logistics space, including advising on outsourcing agreements. Joel Murphie ‘stands out for his technical ability’.

Practice head(s):

Robin Webb; Michelle Craven-Faulkner

Other key lawyers:

Fiona Teague; Simon McArdle; Joel Murphie

Testimonials

‘Joel Murphie stands out for his technical ability.’

‘Strong knowledge across the team of the sector and the factors that would affect our business.’

‘We have worked closely with Simon McArdle, who is extremely knowledgeable of the industries we work in. We trust his judgment and enjoy the seamless approach to work when we instruct him.’

‘Pragmatic with great breadth and depth of expertise.’

‘Fiona Teague is exceptional.’

Key clients

Volkswagen Group

Mercedes Benz

Nissan

Renault

Peugeot Citroen Vauxhall

Volkswagen Financial Services

The White Company

Close Brothers Plc

Honda

Travelodge

Morrisons Supermarkets

Frasers Group

World Duty Free

GXO Logistics

Acaster Lloyd Consulting Ltd

JCDecaux UK Limited

Henkel

Hoover

Jaguar Land Rover

Spamhaus Technology Ltd

Work highlights

  • Advised a longstanding automotive manufacturing client on the appointment of new providers of parts logistics and parts warehousing services to the group in two major multi-million-pound deals.
  • Advising a rolling stock manufacturer on the appointment of its suppliers in relation to a major rolling stock procurement project.
  • Advising the Deliveroo legal team on multiple strategic projects.

Corporate and commercial > Equity capital markets – small-mid cap Tier 4

Shoosmiths LLP is well-regarded for its sponsor- and broker-side offering, which targets clients such as Cavendish and Zeus Capital and encompasses advice on IPOs as well as follow-on offerings and private placements. The team is also noted for its ability to advise issuers in the tech and life sciences sectors on a diverse array of fundraising matters. Led from Birmingham by Ben Turner, the UK team is also home to Nick McCarthy and Oliver Pilkington, who work closely with a series of corporate issuers and their NOMADs on equity transactions.

Practice head(s):

Ben Turner

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘High-quality and a parter-led service.’

‘Oliver Pilkington and Nick McCarthy are both highly experienced and hands-on partners.’

Key clients

DotDigital PLC

EKF Diagnostic Holdings PLC

Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited

Light Science Technologies Holdings Plc

North Atlantic Smaller Companies Investment Trust Plc

Rockwood Strategic PLC

Sondrel (Holdings) plc

Tan Delta Systems PLC

Trellus Health Group Plc

Verici DX Plc

Corporate and commercial > Private equity: transactions - mid-market deals (up to £500m) Tier 4

Shoosmiths LLP continues to develop its position in the UK and European markets, leveraging its national practice to advise on buyouts, investments, bolt-ons and exits. Practice head Amit Nayyar acts for financial sponsors, funds and corporates on M&A and PE transactions, particularly in the healthcare and tech sectors. Sanjeev Sharma supports a series of clients engaging with acquisitions and investments in Asia and North America, and is also a key name for the firm’s steady stream of venture capital work. Sean Wright provides further capabilities in management buyouts, debt and equity investments, and refinancings, while Claire Checketts showcases versatility acting on both buy-side and sell-side mandates. Elizabeth Ward joined from Rothschild & Co – a key client for the firm – in September 2023, bringing her experience as a general counsel and understanding of its various funds to bear on several transactions in the time since. Daniel Shilvock acts for both sponsors and management teams. Mark Davis left the firm in 2023.

Practice head(s):

Amit Nayyar

Testimonials

‘The team was efficient and pragmatic, which was highly valuable.’

‘The Shoosmiths team is a team you can count on, to get your transaction signed and closed. They are always available, willing to provide advice, and to lighten your burden in any way. This is always much appreciated. ’

‘Amit and Claire are responsive, reliable, and have their client’s best interest in mind, always. They are able to get any transaction over the line.’

‘We have always had a dedicated team from Shoosmiths undertake our work. Sanjeev has been a great partner to work with and his team are readily available to help us complete a deal. The continuity of the team has been fantastic for us I highly rate the Shoosmiths team and would recommend them to other firms considering using them.’ 

Key clients

Rothschild & Co

TA Associates

Harwood Capital

NVM

Five Arrows Long Term Fund

Cadence Equity Partners

Cow Corner Investments

Foundation investment Partners

Livingbridge

LDC Private Equity

Work highlights

  • Acting for Five Arrows Long Term Fund and Five Arrows Principal Investments on its acquisition of a majority stake in US based n2y LLC.
  • Acting for Five Arrows Growth Capital and TA Associates on their acquisition of a majority stake in Agilio Software.
  • Acting for Oscar Topco Ltd on the exit of institutional investor, Soho Square Capital from Churchill  to an employee ownership trust.

Employment > Employee share schemes Tier 4

Dan Sharman heads up Shoosmiths LLP‘s offering with support from Reading-based head of tax Tom Wilde. The practice is well equipped to advise both public and private companies on mandates ranging from the design and implementation of incentives, including providing guidance on tax aspects, to supporting on various transactions, particularly M&A. Marie Mann is praised as ‘exceptional’ by clients.

Practice head(s):

Tom Wilde; Dan Sharman

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Good accessibility of team members; practical commercial solutions proposed.’

‘Dan Sharman is fantastic – commercially-minded and technically excellent, always calm, professional and a pleasure to work with.’

‘I felt there was a collaborative approach to the work and an openness about meeting tight deadlines and ensuring the right quality of work. Communication was excellent which meant that I had confidence in meeting the deadlines for the whole project.’

‘Dan Sharman is noteworthy.’

‘The team were excellent in our complex case.’

‘Marie Mann was exceptional.’

Key clients

Rotala Group Limited

Smoove plc

Rothschild (Five Arrows)

EV Chargers Limited

Oscar Topco Limited

Shareholders of CLC Group

Tan Delta Systems Limited

Ten Entertainment Group Plc

Gresham House Investment Management (Guernsey) Limited

BGF Investments LP

BGF UK Enterprise Fund 2 LP

Foresight Group LLP

Certara USA Inc

Octopus Investments Limited

Local Data Company Group Ltd

Work highlights

  • Acting for Ten Entertainment Group plc on the share scheme aspects of its £287m takeover by US private equity firm Trive Capital.
  • Acting for Rothschild (Five Arrows Growth Capital and TA Associates) on the acquisition of a majority stake in Agilio Software Topco Limited.

Insurance > Insurance and reinsurance litigation Tier 4

Shoosmiths LLP has been engaged by clients to advise on key insurance and reinsurance litigation, such as Russian aircraft litigation, Covid-19 claims and insurance issues relating to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. Practice head Susie Wakefield specialises in insurance and reinsurance and is triple-qualified in England and Wales, New York and Bermuda, enabling her to advise on cross-border and international claims. Paul Eccles is based in Thames Valley and advises on policy coverage disputes.

Practice head(s):

Susie Wakefield

Other key lawyers:

Paul Eccles; Richard Marshall; Matthew Brown; Sarah Rigby; John Shirley-Rakhra

Testimonials

‘First-class team that punches well above its weight. Vastly knowledgeable, enormously experienced and the excellent team work ensures the consistent delivery of a premium product for their clients.’

‘Paul Eccles is highly personable but very experienced, with a clear eye for the issues that are really going to count in any claim. Susie Wakefield is sharp as a pin and able to get across the key issues in a complex claim very quickly.’

‘A very efficient team with strong technical skills, an eye for the key issue and a practical, commercially minded approach.’

‘Richard Marshall, Matthew Brown and Sarah Rigby are all excellent: sound legal knowledge and a good grasp of technical/scientific issues.’

Key clients

Liberty Specialty Markets

AmTrust Europe Ltd

Bothnia International Insurance Company Limited/CompRe

Chubb European Group Limited/PSB UK Limited

Sompo

HDI

AIG

MD Insurance Services Limited t/as Premier Guarantee/LABC

Enstar (ANV)

Hoover Limited

Work highlights

  • Assisted London Market insurers with claims for indemnity under the war risk section of reinsurance for loss of aircraft following the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
  • Representing AmTrust in relation to Technology and Construction Court claims including London & Quadrant v AmTrust Europe Limited & others, which concerns defective cladding and fire safety defects.
  • Representing PSB UK Limited, instructed by its insurer, Chubb, in the Grenfell Tower public inquiry and civil actions concerning the design, commissioning and installation of the smoke control system.

Public sector > Education: schools Tier 4

Shoosmiths LLP’s education practice focuses on investments into schools, including private equity investment, and advising on property portfolios of education clients. The practice is well-regarded in the educational technology sector, supporting schools and the wider education sector. The practice is jointly headed by Amit Nayyar in London, Sean Wright in Solent and Daniel Shilvock in Birmingham, who leads the corporate aspects of the education practice. Real estate specialist Mehar Patel advises clients on a range of matters, such as acquisition, disposal and development of school sites, real estate financing and management of client’s property portfolios.

Practice head(s):

Amit Nayyar; Sean Wright; Daniel Shilvock

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

Well resourced firm but with a personal touch.’

The people in the team take the time to understand how we work and they act almost as though they were part of an in-house team. Sean Wright, Ali Triptree, Emma Livesey, Beth Jenkins, Mehar Patel are all outstanding.’

Key clients

Dukes Education Group

Dukes Education Limited

CSFC Limited (Cardiff Sixth Form College)

GEMS Education

Work highlights

  • Advised Dukes Education on the acquisition of Notting Hill Preparatory School, together with its subsidiary company The Acorn Nursery School.
  • Advised CSFC Limited (Cardiff Sixth Form College) on the purchase of a property to be used as a new college teaching campus in the Cardiff Bay area, and another property in the vicinity to be used an accommodation block to be used by the college.
  • Advised GEMS Education on the sale of Sherfield School, a well-established educational private institution in Sherfield-on-Loddon, to Education in Motion (EiM).

Risk advisory > Data protection, privacy and cybersecurity Tier 4

The privacy and data team at Shoosmiths LLP is seen by its clients as ‘one of the best kept secrets in the London market‘. Practice head Sherif Malak is ‘beyond dedicated to his craft‘, and has a strong focus on mandates with a nexus to the technology sector. Many of the group’s practitioners receive regular instruction to act as external data protection officers, including Nick Holland and Hamish Corner. Lately, the department has been increasingly focusing on the contentious side of its data work.

Practice head(s):

Sherif Malak

Other key lawyers:

Matthew MacLachlan; Adam Fox; Nick Holland; Hamish Corner; Kate Brimsted

Testimonials

‘The team is highly skilled and capable with excellent global knowledge of privacy laws which is extremely useful.’

‘Very good client manner and able to easily adapt to circumstances.’

‘The Shoosmiths data privacy team, headed up by Sherif Malak, is one of the best kept secrets in the London market. Their quality of advice, pragmatism, and level of client-focus is unparalleled. They can advise on everything from DPAs up to complex binding corporate rule arrangements and huge CRM onboardings. I simply wouldn’t go anywhere else for data privacy advice.’

‘The team is full of brilliant lawyers with a truly diverse background.’

‘Sherif Malak is, in my eyes, probably one of the best privacy lawyers in Europe. He is beyond dedicated to his craft, pragmatic, passionate about what he does, and incredibly down to earth.’

‘Adam Fox’s extensive in-house experience gives him a unique lens through which he can pick up on problems AND solutions that no one else would think of.’

‘Really lovely team, good client service and a solid team of lawyers working in data protection.’

‘Good understanding of our business and adopt a solution-orientated approach.’

Key clients

Global Switch

Volkswagen Group UK

EG Group

Hilton Grand Vacations

Gopuff

Stonegate Pub Co

The White Company

Nissan Motor Co.

Sosei Heptares

Motorway

Close Brothers

Krispy Kreme

Charles Tyrwhitt

Work highlights

  • Advised Stonegate Pub Company on all the data and privacy aspects of its launch of a new VIP digital loyalty platform app, which provides information about the group’s 850+ managed venues.
  • Instructed as lead global privacy counsel to Hilton Grand Vacations in relation to several data protection projects arising out of a demerger and acquisition.
  • Appointed as outsourced global data protection officer for EG Group.

Transport > Rail Tier 4

Nottingham-based Michelle Craven-Faulkner heads the practice at Shoosmiths LLP. Craven-Faulkner covers all areas of contract work relating to rolling stock light rail projects, and underground projects in the UK, and is also recommended for her advice on a broad range of regulatory matters. Joanne McGuinness is another name to note. McGuinness is a partner in the real estate team, and has considerable experience in working on projects in the rail regulated environment.

Practice head(s):

Michelle Craven-Faulkner

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘The team at Shoosmiths are great communicators, with lots of broad practical experience in the rail industry, and are efficient and knowledgeable and commercial in their approach. They take a collaborative approach when dealing with all interested parties in any rail related transaction.’ 

‘Joanne McGuinness is our go-to person for all rail regulated real estate matters. She is able to provide good practical and proactive advice and guidance when navigating our way through the various regulated process and documents.’

‘Shoosmiths provide an intelligent service. They know and understand the market and are at the forefront of what they do. The team always gives its best and will not rest until the client has been served with the very best legal advice. They are second-to-none.’

‘I work closely with Michelle Craven-Faulkner, and she will always go out of her way to ensure I am given advice, guidance and support of the highest order. She pre-empts my requirements and diligently applies herself in all that she undertakes.’

Key clients

Hitachi Rail Limited

ADCOMMS Limited

Freightliner Group Limited

TDI Innovations Limited

Nottingham Tram Limited

JC Decaux UK Limited

Porterbrook Leasing Company Limited

Porterbrook Maintenance Limited

Cellnex Telecom

Mutares

Story Contracting Limited

Davis Wagon Services

Sperry Rail International Limited

INIT Innovation Transportation Limited

Rail Forum

WH Davis Group

Cinos Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising TD Innovation Limited in relation to the development and launch of a first of its kind Baas agreement for use with its Revolution VLR Vehicle.
  • Advising Cinos in relation to its submission to Chiltern Railway for the supply and installation of WAN services across all railway stations.
  • Advising Freightliner on various key arrangements across its business.

Real estate > Commercial property: Manchester Tier 4

Patrick Duffy heads Shoosmiths LLP’s commercial property team in Manchester alongside Andrew Pattinson. Ruth Clare is a key figure in the team. In May 2023, Christina SuddesJames Brodie and Daniel Monaghan left the firm, in addition to Paul Gidman in June 2023. The team was bolstered by the arrival of Peter Marsden in May 2023 from Excello Law.

Practice head(s):

Patrick Duffy; Andrew Pattinson

Other key lawyers:

Emma Tonge; Adam Barrett; Ruth Clare; Anna Lowe; Peter Marsden

Testimonials

‘Experience, expertise, honesty and integrity; proactive with ideas and solutions; responsive and accessible.’

‘Patrick Duffy, Emma Tonge and Adam Barrett are all outstanding. A cohesive team working well together and providing partner-quality input.’

‘The team are very collaborative and work is managed well. The service is consistent.’

‘Ruth Clare does an outstanding job.’

‘Commercial approach but always with a focus on detail.’

‘High calibre individuals who are both technically strong and personable. Patrick Duffy is noteworthy.’

‘Shoosmiths’ commercial department are on-hand with all matters and are professional in their approach.’

‘Anna Lowe is outstanding in the service she provides. No task is too much for her and all are dealt with quickly and efficiently. Her advice is always presented in a manner which is easily understood too.’

Key clients

Taylor Wimpey

Lovell Partnership

Gleeson Homes

EG Group

Ralph Lauren UK Limited

Allied London

Estee Lauder Cosmetics Limited

Lend Lease Residential

Muse Developments

Select Property Group

XPO

Countryside Properties Plc

Footasylum Limited

Derwent Holdings

Svenska Handelsbanken AB

UCI Cinemas International (UK) Limited trading as Odeon

PDI (Holdings) Limited

Bluemantle

Synergie Holdings Limited

Aspire Gym

Humberside Airport

Virgin Wine Online

Likewize

Workshop

Bellway Homes

Royal Borough of Kingston

Bolton Council

Stockport Council

Staying Cool

St Modwen Properties plc

Property Alliance Group Limite

Alliance Real Estate LLP

ARE II LLP

Keepmoat Homes Limited

Anwyl Land Limited

Anwyl Construction Company Limited

Gladman Developments Limited

Austringer Limited

Greenbank Partnerships Limited

Fraser Group

Walgreen Boots Alliance

Monte Blackburn Limited

Vistry Partnerships

Renaker Build

Kellen Homes

Total Developments Limited

Ralph Lauren UK Limited

The Restaurant Group plc

Sigma Property Capital Limited

Chantler Trading Limited

Stretton Wakefield Limited

Lancashire County Council

Morbaine Limited

Edgefold Homes

PLP

Harworth Group

Ainscough Strategic Land

Sourced Regent Plaza Limited

Mount Property Group Limited

Your Housing Group

Wirral Growth Company

Peel Group

Star Academies

Cheshire East Council

Nicoventures Retail (UK) Limited

Hillcrest Homes

Canal and River Trust

Galliford Try Plc

The Beam Trust (A multi-school acadamy trust)

Brydell Partners

Redrow PLC

Access to Music Limited

Milligan Limited

Quartzelec

Stretton Denman Limited

Perfection Point Enterprises Limited

Place Capital Limited

Progress Housing Group

LDS Sales Guarantees Limited

Bury Metropolitan Borough Council

Prestbury Estates Limited

Canterbury City Council

London Borough of Hounslow

Wain Homes

Glass Futures

Storage 24

Avant

Buccleuch

Bruntwood Works

Bruntwood SciTech

Cole Waterhouse

Henderson Park

Glenbrook

Peveril Securities

Foursynergy Group

FLCT

Williams Group

Trafford Bruntwood

Bury Bruntwood

Manchester Science Partnerships

Northstone Development Limited

Packaged Living

Frontier Estates Limited

Leon Restaurants Limited

Revolution Bars Group PLC

Perseus Land and Developments Limited

Lamington Group

Work highlights

  • Acting for Henderson Park in their acquisition, funding and development of a 149 acre ex-colliery site at Konect, Kellingley, West Yorkshire into a multi-let landmark distribution park.
  • Acting for Bruntwood on their eye catching and market-leading office letting to HM Courts and Tribunal service of over 26,000 square feet of space at West Gate, Leeds.
  • Acting for Crosstown Dough, MAC, Jo Malone, Le Labo, Leon and Ralph Lauren on their complex agreements for lease and leases of several key retail lettings at Battersea Power Station, both within the power station and the new buildings constructed around it.

Corporate and commercial > Corporate and commercial: Edinburgh and Glasgow Tier 4

Providing an ‘excellent service’ with ‘attention to detail and commercial awareness’, Shoosmiths covers M&A, private equity and venture capital transactions across a range of sectors, with established strength in the tech, life sciences and sports sectors as well as continued engagement in the start-up community. Alison Gilson leads the team and is well geared to act on a variety of domestic and cross-border corporate transactions and capital raises. Kimberley Goh demonstrates ‘exceptional guidance’ when navigating clients through commercial negotiations and is lauded for her ‘granular attention to detail and measured and pro-active approach’, while Jen Paton, who handles M&A and venture capital deals, supports clients at a national level.

Practice head(s):

Alison Gilson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘They really take the time to understand your business and put the right team together for the job in hand. They work hard at meeting timeframes that fit with us.’

‘The knowledge and experience across the team is very good and they take a very commercial approach to advise whilst identifying risks.’

‘The team at Shoosmiths provide an excellent service. They are diligent and pragmatic, looking for solutions rather than presenting problems. They understand the challenges and constraints that small business owners have and aim to make their processes as light touch as they can.’

‘Jen Paton is fantastic. She always delivers, on time and with a smile on her face! She has taken the time to understand our business and this has been really helpful as we worked though our previous engagement.’

‘The team were able to get up to speed on a new client incredibly quickly, understanding the complexity of pre-existing agreements and ongoing commercial discussions. They were very responsive and able to work to short timescales, while retaining an attention to detail and commercial awareness to help resolve issues encountered along the way.’

‘We were particularly impressed by Kimberley Goh who quickly became a trusted adviser. She demonstrated exceptional guidance in helping us navigate commercial negotiations with a granular attention to detail and a measured and pro-active approach at all times. Kimberley was highly pro-active in keeping things moving and responding positively to a challenging timetable. Kimberley ultimately played a crucial role in achieving a successful outcome on the project.’

‘I find the team responsive and commercial. When plans change, they are able to react accordingly and get things done quickly with additional resource being available as needed.’

‘Jen Paton was a great associate to have working on our corporate matter. She listened to what we wanted and understood the part we wanted her and her colleagues to play, and as a result was a really valuable team member.’

Key clients

Extreme E Limited

Certara USA Inc

DotDigital Group plc

Marwyn Investment Management LLP

Dukes Education Group Ltd

Engine B Limited

Maven Capital Partners UK LLP

Housing Growth Partnership

Foresight Group LLP

Sandbox International Holdings Limited

Work highlights

  • Advised AIM listed DotDigital Group plc on the £25m acquisition of Fresh Relevance Limited, a vendor of cross-channel personalisation technology.
  • Advised US buyer Certara USA Inc on its acquisition of Scottish biotech company Formedix Limited.
  • Advising electric motor racing championship client Extreme E Limited on international fundraise and corporate governance matters.

Dispute resolution > Commercial litigation Tier 4

The ‘highly knowledgeable’ group at Shoosmiths, under the joint leadership of Stuart Clubb and Andrew Foyle, is adept at handling a broad range of disputes, including commercial contract and shareholder disagreements. Clubb’s practice includes commercial, insolvency, real estate, and professional negligence litigation, while Foyle specialises in all aspects of banking and financial services litigation, with experience in commercial recoveries litigation.

Practice head(s):

Stuart Clubb; Andrew Foyle

Other key lawyers:

Ben Zielinski

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths have two exceptional lawyers leading their litigation practice in this jurisdiction. Both Stuart Clubb and Andrew Foyle are very hands-on and bring their experience within the sector to bear in a way that other larger firms often do not.’

‘The practice is well organised and is very skilful in handling clients’ and witnesses’ expectations.’

‘Ben Zielinski (legal director) is very efficient. He was a calm and wise adviser’

‘The Scottish team is highly knowledgeable and provides excellent and prompt advice. They are particularly strong in property litigation and insolvency with significant sector knowledge.’

‘Andrew Foyle stands out in Scotland as a highly recognised commercial litigator and commentator on a wide range of litigation matters.’

Key clients

The Royal Bank of Scotland Plc / Natwest Group

Boots UK Limited

Poundland Limited

Cabot Financial UK Limited

SSE / Ovo Energy

Middlebrooks Business Recovery and Advice

Grahams The Family Dairy

Close Brothers limited

Screwfix Direct Ltd

Hoover Limited

Work highlights

  • Acted on behalf of minority shareholders in an unfair prejudice petition in the Court of Session.
  • Acted on behalf of a property developer in a high value breach of contract and professional negligence action against its former architects and cost consultants.
  • Acted on behalf of a specialist insolvency litigation claims acquisition company in the pursuit of an unpaid director’s loan in the Court of Session.

Real estate > Planning Tier 4

With a strong focus on the living sector, Shoosmiths offers expertise in purpose-built student accommodation, build-to-rent, and aparthotel developments. The Scottish practice is led by Geraint Hughes, who advises housebuilders, landowners, retailers, and financiers on both contentious and non-contentious planning issues. Lee Murphy joined the firm as a consultant in June 2023 and frequently advises on residential projects, wind farms and mixed-use developments.

Practice head(s):

Geraint Hughes

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Not only will Geraint Hughes get the legal matters right, but he will also be on the money in terms of our options commercially. Geraint focuses on what matters for the client and that is invaluable.

‘Geraint Hughes’s knowledge of the planning system and its intricate complexities really sets him above the rest. He knows our business, understands our requirements, and is on hand to offer expert planning and legal advice when required.’

‘Shoosmiths LLP provides a good planning team.’

‘Geraint Hughes provided good advice and dealt with issues in a timely manner.’

Key clients

Sigma Capital Property Limited

Watkin Jones plc

Carmichael Homes

The High School of Glasgow

Park Lane (Glasgow) Limited

The PRS REIT plc

UK PRS (Jersey) Properties I Limited

Aberdeen City Council

Bellway Homes

Welsh Power

PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited (PTTEP)

Boots 2 Property Scottish Limited Partnership

Work highlights

  • Co-counselled with Latham and Watkins on the acquisition of a 25% stake worth £522 billion by PTTEP from Total Energies in the worlds deepest fixed bottom offshore windfarm, Seagreen.
  • Provided planning advise in respect of £240 million worth of BTR projects across the UK for Sigma Capital Property Limited, UK PRS (Jersey) Properties I Limited and the PRS REIT plc.
  • Assisted Aberdeen City Council on the conclusion of planning legal agreements to secure approx. 500 dwellings and PBSA beds.

Insurance > Personal injury: claimant Tier 4

Chris McKinney heads the team at Shoosmiths LLP, which is skilled at handling serious injury cases with complex liability issues. McKinney specialises in spinal and brain injury claims, as well as amputation cases. In addition, he has a particular interest in fatal injury claims. Senior associate Kate Price-Marson is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Chris McKinney

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Chris McKinney – a truly seasoned campaigner. His experience in life-changing injury cases is second to none. Kate Price-Marson – one of the nicest people you could meet but underneath that is a razor-sharp lawyer who will fight endlessly for her clients.’

‘Chris McKinney guided us through every process no matter how big or small and was very knowledgeable in what he does.’

‘Always quick to respond and provide updates on the case and very easy to reach.’

‘Clear and concise advice and procedures to help make my journey through the claim as comfortable as possible. Empathy and understanding of my situation as you would expect of true specialists.’

‘Chris McKinney and Kate Price-Marson have a great understanding of the field they work in which is outstanding and gives me great confidence in their abilities.’

‘Kate Price-Marson was my solicitor who is a distinguished professional whose exceptional expertise and unwavering commitment to the work on my case was with the highest standard of proficiency.’

‘Led by Chris McKinney, the team at Shoosmiths is first rate. Acting for seriously injured claimants, they bring compassion, experience and bravery. Any defendant would be making an error if they underestimated Shoosmiths.’

‘Kate was really good at taking vital information and then explaining the outcomes and circumstances of each process.’

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech: corporate and commercial Tier 4

Praised for its understanding of the ‘nuances and context of the fintech ecosystem’, Shoosmiths LLP is geared to handle an array of projects and deals, covering payments, open banking, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation. Leadership duties are divided between Prakash Kerai, described by one client as being ‘at the centre of the fintech universe’, and Luke Stubbs in Manchester, whose outsourcing expertise is relied upon by both customers and suppliers in the fintech space. Sam Tyfield is equipped to advise on the offering, broking and trading of cryptocurrencies.

Practice head(s):

Prakash Kerai; Luke Stubbs

Other key lawyers:

Sam Tyfield; Joe Stephenson; Thomas Morrison

Testimonials

‘The team is very proactive in engaging in the fintech community – as thought leaders as well as advisers to their clients. There are few law firms who go as far as Shoosmiths to integrate with the community and as a result – they are one of the most trusted legal voices in this area.’

‘The individuals really get the nuances and context of the fintech ecosystem and relevant tech, legislative and regulatory trends – and crucially, how they align together. In particular, Prakash Kerai is seemingly at the centre of the fintech universe, connecting relevant individuals, organisations and workstreams in order to assist with advancement.’

‘A very personable team and great partners to work with. An absolute pleasure.’

‘Prakash Kerai is my financial services firm’s first choice for external legal support on FCA-regulated SaaS and other cloud IT contracts. Prakash has a great understanding of the underlying technology and market contract positions, with a fine attention to detail. He is also a persuasive negotiator.’

Key clients

Stonegate Group

Together Money

Vaultex

Compare The Market

PremFina

Close Brothers

RCI Financial Services Limited

UK Finance

Volkswagen Financial Services

Work highlights

  • Advised PremFina on its material outsourcing of its core loan engine to Thought Machine, a unicorn start-up providing next-generation banking and payment technology via an SaaS model.
  • Advised Stonegate Group on the contracts for its creation and operation of a new customer-facing app “MiXR” including payments functionality.
  • We advised Compare the Market on the procurement of an enterprise resource planning system, and its contracting arrangements for the implementation of the same with its chosen implementation partner.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Fintech: regulatory Tier 4

From advising banks on UK product documentation to consumer credit issues and strategic digital transformation projects, Shoosmiths LLP is well placed to assist a host of clients on all manner of work, ranging from start-ups to major financial institutions. Technology expert Prakash Kerai co-heads the practice alongside the Manchester-based outsourcing specialist Luke Stubbs. Suzanne Taylor, who divides her time between Manchester, London and Birmingham, advises consumer finance clients on regulatory compliance with the FCA. Thomas Morrison is particularly praised by clients for his 'significant knowledge and experience in UK payment system regulations.'

Practice head(s):

Prakash Kerai; Luke Stubbs

Other key lawyers:

Suzanne Taylor; Wayne Gibbard; Russell Jones; Sam Tyfield; Hannah Field; Thomas Morrison; Liam Smith

Testimonials

‘The team is very proactive and initiate the first meeting to understand our bank’s businesses, and current and potential needs in the regulatory field.’

‘Thomas Morrison has significant knowledge and experience in UK payment system regulations and provided tailor-made solutions to meet the individual bank’s requirements. In addition, Mr Morrison also provided regulatory advice on the branch’s customer APP design which helped the bank to plan its improvement in the fintech field. ’

‘Hannah Field is an excellent litigator, bringing experience and strategic insight to her matters.’

‘The Shoosmiths team provided excellent pragmatic advice and ably supported our business in the delivery of key strategic project both on time and on budget. The team had a strong understanding of the regulatory position and the challenges in our sector and shaped their advice so that it was risk and outcome focused. The team were well resourced and sought support from colleagues in other practices areas when needed.’

‘Suzanne Taylor is very personable, provides clear advice and is very responsive. She has a deep knowledge of our sector and this came through in the pragmatic advice given.’

‘Russell Jones was always on hand to support with our project and turned things quickly and efficiently for us.’

Key clients

UK Finance

Virgin Media O2

Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited

RCI Financial Services Limited

Stonegate Group

Together Money

Dr Craig Wright

Tulip Trading Limited

Vaultex

Compare The Market

PremFina

Close Brothers

Work highlights

  • Supporting one of the world’s top four card companies on its product and service innovations. Many of these have involved new technology (such as virtual cards and wearables), digital applications and digital journeys.
  • Working with a CMA9 bank, to review and update its UK product documentation (predominantly agreements and terms and conditions) for compliance with current laws and regulations.
  • Advised Stonegate Group on the contracts for its creation and operation of a new customer-facing app “MiXR” including payments functionality. As well as advising on the contracts with the app developers and host Digitas, the team provided specialist advice to the client on its contract with Bink, a provider of card-linking technology.

Projects, energy and natural resources > Renewables Tier 4

Shoosmiths LLP is routinely entrusted by a range of developers, investors and funders for advice on complex infrastructure and renewable energy projects both in the UK and overseas. These include the construction and operation of clean energy generation, energy efficiency, and energy from waste. Practice head James Wood-Robertson focuses on clean energy and infrastructure projects and PPAs, while Chris Pritchett - who joined the firm in May 2023 from Foot Anstey - brings in new expertise in battery storage, solar, EV infrastructure and wind. Another key contact is corporate and M&A specialist Grant Edwards, who advises corporations, private equity funds, and developers on corporate transactions involving various renewable technologies, including wind, solar, anaerobic digestion and battery storage.

Practice head(s):

James Wood-Robertson

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Highly skilled, commercially aware and knowledgeable team.’

‘James Wood Robertson is a very experienced and commercially aware partner providing an excellent service across all areas of the Renewable Energy sector.’

‘Very personable and friendly team with a wealth of experience in renewables M&A. We felt the team always had our best interests at heart and supported us throughout the transaction.’

‘Grant Edwards worked tirelessly for us at all stages. Very competent in drafting complex clauses and envisaging scenarios that could go against us, and so we needed drafting to protect us.’

‘The Shoosmiths team has demonstrated solid, practical experience, which is necessary when engaging in negotiations for renewable energy and utility contracts.’

‘James Wood-Robertson has a strong background in contracting for renewables. His experience helps to define the art of what is possible and practical to achieve.’

‘James Wood-Robertson is our key contact at Shoosmiths who has always been very impressive – very commercial and pragmatic with an enormous amount of experience. He steered us in the right direction on many occasions.’

Key clients

Equitix

EnergieKontor

Foresight Group

ENGIE UK

ABO Wind

Switch2 Energy

Gresham House

DIF Capital

Iona Capital

Triple Point

Iceland Foods

EVC

TotalEnergies

Sante Global LLP

Goldbeck Solar

Renewabl

ITM Power

Kona Energy

Urbanchain

Instavolt

Work highlights

  • Advised German onshore wind developer, EnergieKontor, on the development and disposal of several onshore wind projects across the UK, including negotiation of corporate PPAs and contracts for difference.
  • Advising Workspace Group on its power purchase agreement with Statkraft Markets GmbH in respect of the sale and purchase of electricity generated by a solar PV project in Devon developed and owned by Gresham House.
  • Advised UK-based electric vehicle charging company, EV Chargers (EVC) on its series A fundraising of £165 million of capital from Funds managed by Denham Sustainable Infrastructure, an arm of global energy transition investment firm, Denham Capital.

Corporate and commercial > Financial services: contentious Tier 5

Shoosmiths LLP is particularly active advising foreign banks, with a retail function, and wealth management firms on risk management strategies associated with the FCA’s new Consumer Duty rules. ‘Outstanding’ team head Daren Allen has been taking the lead on this work and also has experience representing clients in investigations, regulatory enforcement proceedings and litigation. Andrew Bowden-Brown is also a key part of the team and regularly assists asset-based lenders to bring claims for fraud perpetrated against them by customers.

Practice head(s):

Daren Allen

Other key lawyers:

Andrew Bowden-Brown; Hannah Field; Jonathon Crook; Mike Lockton

Testimonials

Daren Allen is outstanding because he takes time to listen to his clients and has the ability to provide appropriate opinion in a timely fashion.’

‘I have had the pleasure of working with the Shoosmiths team on two difficult contentious FS matters. The team has strength and depth in its leadership and significant experience in this field.’

Work highlights

  • Advising a leading asset-based lending provider in relation to a sophisticated and orchestrated fraud perpetrated against them, including the commencement of civil proceedings and enforcement of the judgment award of around £3.1m.
  • Advising a financier to advise on the merits and all procedural aspects of a judicial review of a decision of the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS), arising from the client’s lending in relation to timeshare products.
  • Advising a bank on the business of one of its customers, which involved a multi-level marketing operation and a potential fraudulent scheme.

Real estate > Commercial property: investment Tier 5

Shoosmiths LLP is adept at site transactions across the gamut of asset classes, including data centres, logistics, self-storage and co-living assets. Joseph Mazzucca became head of practice in May 2024 and is accustomed to assisting US clients on the UK aspects of their real estate work. Liam Phillips is an expert on data centres. Isaac Bordon joined the team in November 2023 from DLA Piper.

Practice head(s):

Joseph Mazzucca

Other key lawyers:

Key clients

McArthurGlen Group

Frasers Property

Berkeley Homes

Currys PLC

Holland & Barrett

Global Switch Limited

Proximity Data Centres Limited

Telereal Trillium Limited

Ralph Lauren UK Limited

Petchey Holdings Limited

Artmax Property Limited

Invesco Real Estate

Sosei Heptares

Heptares Therapeutics Limited

Bluecastle Capital

Attic Self Storage

Iron Mountain Data Centres

O&H Properties

Union Investment GmbH

BPP Holdings Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Shearer Property Regen Limited on all aspects of the major Coventry City Centre South regeneration scheme consisting of new commercial space and 1,500 homes.
  • Acting for Frank Capital on the freehold acquisition of Ornan Court, Belsize Park, London for refurbishment into co-living space.
  • Acting for Attic Self Storage on the freehold acquisition of a strategic self-storage site at Interchange West, Sunbury-on-Thames, adding to our client’s growing property portfolio.

Real estate > Construction: non-contentious Tier 5

Shoosmiths LLP‘s ‘very knowledgeable’ non-contentious construction team provides advice to international and domestic clients across a range of mandates regarding luxury commercial and residential developments. Team head Ian Reid leads on advising developer clients on the full range of construction-related matters, including contracts and documents, while Ryan Fordham is ‘best in the business’, acting for logistics companies in infrastructure developments. Khan Kassam is an active member of the team, assisting with high-value real estate developments.

Practice head(s):

Ian Reid

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Ryan Fordham has incredible legal skill and knowledge coupled with commercial understanding and practical application. Ryan understands commercial pressures and timeline pressure.’

‘Partner-led, pragmatic advice dealing with the points important to the commercial objectives of the client rather than on legal point scoring.’

‘Ryan Fordham has an excellent ability to get to the heart of the problem and find a practical solution to achieve client’s objectives.’

‘Shoosmiths’ London practice has the experience and accessibility that makes it a real hit with clients.’

‘Ian Reid is a brilliant team player and wonderful with clients.’

‘Very knowledgeable as well as being extremely up to date with the current market. They are also very responsive and helped us manage a complex contractor fail efficiently.’

‘Ryan Fordham is the best in the business as well as also just being a very humble person. He manages to quickly get to the heart of the matter and give then present various solutions.’

‘Specialist knowledge of practice areas.’

Key clients

Seven Capital Mark Limited

Noah Limited

Eros Limited

7 St James Square Limited

Dominus Group of Companies

Merchant Square Capital Limited

REAP 1 Limited

Barking Central Management Company Limited

Work highlights

  • Advising Seven Capital Mark Limited on its flagship development at 100 West Cromwell Road, London.
  • Advising Eros Limited on its super prime development of apartments and a Mandarin Oriental hotel at Hanover Square in London.
  • Advising Henigman on its development of a Georgian mansion in St James’ Square.

Real estate > Environment Tier 5

The environmental team at Shoosmiths LLP, chaired by Angus Evers, undertakes a broad range of transactional, advisory, and contentious environmental work across a host of sectors, including chemicals, real estate, waste management, automotive, and energy. Evers - who draws superlative praise from clients - is regularly called upon to advise on land contamination matters affecting large-scale development projects, and on waste regulation issues.

Practice head(s):

Angus Evers

Other key lawyers:

Joanne Sear

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths has one of the leading UK environmental practices’

‘I have worked with Angus for over 20 years. As with his illustrious colleagues Angus has also developed into one of the finest environmental lawyers of his generation. Absolutely dependable, totally thorough and with a laser sharp mind.’

‘We find Shoosmiths’ environmental team have deep expertise across the broad spectrum of environmental regulatory matters we deal with and in particular they respond promptly to our requests. ’

‘A leading UK firm for anyone seeking environmental advice. The team is hugely experienced in this sector, holding some of the leading practitioners in the country.’

‘I have worked with Angus Evers and Joanne Sear, and both are excellent. Angus Evers stands out as a nationally recognised environmental law expert.’

Key clients

Brenntag UK Limited

Baker Estates Limited

Extra Motorway Services

Tan Delta Systems PLC

Alcentra

Interpath Advisory

SGN Retail

St. Modwen Properties Limited

British Car Auctions Limited

Central England Co-op

Work highlights

  • Advised a multinational chemicals storage and distribution business on a successful application for a Hazardous Substances Consent for chemicals storage.
  • Advised the recipient of a civil penalty under the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme on an appeal against the penalty, achieving a 70% reduction in the amount.
  • Advised a service station operator on the environmental aspects of the acquisition of 2 portfolios of service stations and the simultaneous refinancing of its existing portfolio of service stations.

Real estate > Planning Tier 5

Shoosmiths LLP is particularly focused on housing, regeneration, and strategic land developments, in addition to planning litigation. Matt Nixon is often engaged in compulsory purchases, environmental impact assessment work, and section 106 agreements.

Practice head(s):

Matt Nixon

Key clients

Home Builders Federation (HBF) and Land, Planning and Development Federation (LPDF)

Frank Capital

Avanton Limited

Catesby Estates Ltd

Hartwell PLC

Telereal Trillium

Hill Residential

Hertsmere Borough Council

Frontier Estates Limited

Attic Self Storage

Enable Care Limited

Churchill Retirement Living

Countryside

Vistry Partnerships

Shearer Property Regeneration Group

Grainger PLC

RMS Limited

Highwood Group

Lagan Homes

Tilia Homes

Taylor Wimpey

Work highlights

  • Advised the Home Builders Federation (HBF) and the Land, Planning and Development Federation (LPDF) in obtaining intervener status in the C G Fry nitrate neutrality litigation relating to wider implications to the house building sector.
  • Advised Avanton Limited on obtaining consent for a major residential led redevelopment in London Borough of Richmond, which has been called in for determination by the Mayor of London.
  • Advising Shearer Property Regeneration Group on the Coventry City Centre mixed-use regeneration scheme.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > IT and telecoms Tier 5

With experience in cryptocurrency, data, and digital assets disputes, Shoosmiths LLP is knowledgeable of data center matters, data protection, as well as outsourcing arrangements. Prakash Kerai leads the practice and counts technology businesses, scale-ups, and start-ups on his client roster. Sam Tyfield is often engaged in cryptocurrency matters, while Steve Barnett specialises in venture capital. Hannah Field is well-versed in commercial, confidentiality, and shareholder disputes, while Liam Phillips is knowledgeable of data center matters.

Practice head(s):

Prakash Kerai

Testimonials

‘The law firm stands out because it knows M&A law inside and out, but it also really understands the business side of things. This means they’re not just good lawyers; they’re also savvy about the business world, which is a big plus when you’re working through complex deals. They know how to blend legal advice with smart business strategies, helping their clients not just survive but thrive in tough negotiations.’

‘This team really takes the time to understand what the top executives really need—even the things they might not say out loud. They’re great negotiators who know when to push and when to compromise, making sure their clients come out ahead. Their knack for getting to the heart of what executives are worried about and finding solutions that work is what makes them so valuable. They’re more than just lawyers; they’re essential partners in business.’

‘The team at this law firm really stands out because they grasp not just the legal details but the whole business picture. They’re not the kind to just jump in and out of a deal; instead, they focus on building long-term relationships with their clients. This means they’re committed to understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that each client faces, which sets them apart from other firms that might focus solely on short-term legal victories.’

‘The team coped extremely well with a handling a demanding case against two sets of clients with considerably larger legal teams.’

‘Steve Barnett has been instrumental in several of our major negotiations, where her ability to anticipate our needs and the moves of the opposing side has proven invaluable. His foresight and strategic thinking have not only seen us through complex legal landscapes but also ensured that our business interests were protected and enhanced.’

Key clients

Together Money

Lightpoint Medical Limited

Clean Growth Fund

Dr Craig Wright

Tulip Trading Limited

Vaultex

Deliveroo

Compare The Market

Lifeways Group

PremFina

Close Brothers

Iron Mountain

Global Switch

Proximity Data Centres

Work highlights

  • Advising Vaultex on its critical outsourcing agreements with two leading UK banks.
  • Representing the defendant in a high-profile case to determine whether our client is the person behind the pseudonym “Satoshi Nakamoto”, who created Bitcoin in 2008.
  • Advised Jaguar Land Rover on its £800m global digital transformation project with Tata Consultancy Services.

Employment Tier 5

Glasgow-based litigator Michael McLaughlin heads Shoosmiths’ employment law team, which handles a significant volume of employment tribunal claims across the UK; his sector expertise includes the infrastructure, transport, utilities and public sectors. Typical non-contentious advice includes TUPE, redundancy processes and HR. Senior associate and experienced litigator Grace Watson is another key member of the team. Former team co-head Kim Pattullo retired in December 2022.

Practice head(s):

Michael McLaughlin

Other key lawyers:

Samantha Mackie; Grace Watson; Jennifer Wright

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths are great. They are very professional, give expert advice, and support us like they’re a member of our company rather than a service provider.’

‘Samantha Mackie always provides excellent advice for us, responds very quickly, looks through the situation from every angle and potential risk and has always been stellar. On top of that, she is polite, humble and carries herself with the utmost professionalism.’

‘The key benefit of working with Shoosmiths is the realistic and down-to-earth approach to employment law matters.’

‘Michael McLaughlin is a brilliant lawyer and able to analyse the most challenging and complex matters and identify realistic solutions. He has created a team of brilliant, like-minded people who are an absolute credit to the Shoosmiths brand.’

‘Samantha Mackie, Jen Wright, Grace Watson have all worked tirelessly to support my organisation. They really are excellent at what they do – I cannot emphasise this enough.’

‘Fantastic Employment Law team in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Very knowledgeable, measured and commercially astute. In the past, I have found a lot of employment law firms to be risk averse. Shoosmiths considers all information and provides a risk assessment based on all information, the good and the not so good.’

‘The team provide a service that is professional; timely; advice is trusted and they are approachable and all done with a smile. Samantha Mackie’s knowledge and measured advice is fantastic. Service from Grace Watson is always measured, timely and takes all aspects into consideration.’

‘Having worked with Shoosmiths for a number of years I find their approach incredibly helpful, and they always work with you to get the result that you want, advising you of any potential pitfalls but providing pragmatic solutions.’

Key clients

Amey Services Limited

Chivas Brothers Ltd

Beam Suntory

Boots

Scottish Water

GEOAmey

The Wise Group

Aberdeenshire Council

CalMac group including David MacBrayne Limited, David MacBrayne HR (UK) Limited, Caledonian MacBrayne, Calmac Ferries Limited, Caledonian MacBrayne Crewing (Guernsey) Limited

H&M

Blazing Griffin

Dignity Funeral Services

Hewlett Packard Ltd

Scottish Woodlands Limited

Landcatch Natural Selection Ltd

Work highlights

  • Successfully defended Caledonian MacBrayne in employment tribunal proceedings raised by an unsuccessful job applicant alleging detriment related to trade union activities and unlawful blacklisting.
  • Represented Amey Services Limited in employment tribunal proceedings throughout the UK.
  • Advised a UK healthcare provider in connection with the imposition of changes to collectively agreed terms and conditions and the management of a pay dispute.

Real estate > Construction Tier 5

Under the leadership of Ian McCann, the construction and engineering department at Shoosmiths excels in assisting public and private sector clients with non-contentious matters. The firm is actively involved in the living sector, notably providing advice on developments such as purpose-built student accommodation and build-to-rent projects.

Practice head(s):

Ian McCann

Other key lawyers:

Nina Oliver

Key clients

Screwfix Direct Limited

Eric Wright Civil Engineering Limited

Newtide Investments Limited

Sigma Capital Property Limited

Gatehouse Investment Management

Corporate and commercial > Corporate tax Tier 6

Shoosmiths LLP‘s growing team has a focus on tax issues relating to both domestic and international M&A. The group is increasingly active in private equity and venture capital spaces. Laura Board leads the London tax team, and is additionally qualified as a Chartered Tax Advisor. Chris Moakes is particularly active on behalf of venture capital trusts. Laura Gould joined the team from Reed Smith LLP in early 2024.

Practice head(s):

Laura Board

Other key lawyers:

Chris Moakes; Sarah Buxton; Laura Gould

Testimonials

‘The whole team work very closely with us to really understand the business and the investment opportunity.’

‘Tom Wilde and Chris Moakes are both expert but also pragmatic, they provide timely commercial advice and ask extra questions of investors and management to get under the skin of any transaction.’

‘Their VCT practice is pragmatic and helpful – they are always solution focussed.’

‘Tom Wilde is the north star of any tax or legal advisor. He has an incredible depth of knowledge, answers questions at record speed, and is a pleasure to work with.’

‘The team has consistently performed at the highest service levels for tax support that I could expect as in house counsel. Their response times are incredibly fast, and they take pragmatic and calm approaches to any issue we send to them. ’

‘Tom Wilde has been the go to VCT fund advisor for many years now. His knowledge of the intricate legislative landscape coupled with his commercial and friendly approach make him the stand-out in the market. ’

Key clients

Triple Point

Gresham House

Octopus Ventures

LDC (Managers) Limited

Azets Holdings Limited

Puma Investment Management Limited

Source Bio International Limited

Lightpoint Medical Limited

Shareholders of Apparel Brands Limited

IZI Medical Products LLC (subsidiary of Halma Plc)

Evelyn Partners LLP

Work highlights

  • Advised the shareholders of Apparel Brands Limited on the restructure and transactions required to facilitate the MBO and sale.
  • Advised the Jensten Group on the corporate tax aspects of their acquisition of the East Anglian based One Broker Group.
  • Advised Triple Point on the Enterprise Investment Scheme and Venture Capital Trust eligibility of a variety of deals.

Employment > Employers Tier 6

Kevin McCavish heads the practice at Shoosmiths LLP, which helps a variety of employers on a wide range of issues. It has particular expertise in GDPR/data subject access requests, and other areas such as advising on trade union matters. It is skilled too at supporting the firm’s corporate, commercial and litigation teams when there are disposals, acquisitions, investments and outsourcings affecting its clients. These deals often have an international element. In addition, the team has a substantial tribunal litigation caseload.

Practice head(s):

Kevin McCavish

Other key lawyers:

Karen Mortenson

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths LLP have a talented and growing employer practice in London. They provide great value and a very strong, personal level of service.’

‘Karen Mortenson is a really talented lawyer, with great legal knowledge and judgment. She provides a first-class service for her clients, and misses nothing.’

‘Kevin McCavish is one of the most knowledgeable and effective lawyers I have ever worked with (if not the most!). He has good availability and will always call back, helping to manage complex cases through to completion.’ 

‘They balance the need for pragmatism and risk extremely well. They have a high level of empathy for day to day commercial challenges and adapt their approach accordingly.’

‘The employment law team is top quality, providing pragmatic as well as commercial and legal advice. The partner gets to know the clients and their organisational cultures, and advice reflects sensitivities.’

‘Kevin McCavish is an excellent employment lawyer, second to none. His advice is timely, apposite and always reliable.’

‘I value the support and advice given by Kevin, and he will always make time for a call to discuss anything I may have concerns about. Kevin is very personable and highly professional.’

I have worked with Kevin McCavish – excellent and a pleasure to work with. The firm’s approach is business-like and user-friendly, dispenses with unnecessary formality and provides a streamlined approach.’

Key clients

Goldsmiths, University of London

The Victoria & Albert Museum (V&A)

Sosei Heptares

WiredScore UK Limited

Miroma Group Limited

Principal Global Investors (Europe) Limited

The National Trust

Calor Gas Limited

ABN-AMRO UK Ltd

Almacantar Limited

Principal Global Investors Ltd

Global Switch

Softbank

The Estates Office, Shoreditch

Cordiant Capital

Acadian Asset Management LLC

Jacobs UK Limited

The Courtauld Institute of Art

J.M. Finn & Co Ltd

Mattel

Bank of China

The GelBottle

ICON

MJ Maillis

Calibre Scientific Inc

Far Bank Enterprises

Security Industry Authority

Airline Strategy Group Inc

Real estate > Property finance Tier 6

Shoosmiths LLP frequently acts for banks and institutional lenders on a host of UK-wide mandates. Practice head Liz Sweeney divides her time between Manchester and London. 'Proactive, and always willing to provide additional advice and support beyond the scope of the engagement', James Spencer - who joined from Alston & Bird LLP in August 2023 - focuses on non-bank loan agency and servicing. Chris Mills is a key contact for major institutional lenders, including leading investment banks.

Practice head(s):

Liz Sweeney

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Shoosmiths are an exceptional firm. Their team’s expertise, industry knowledge and outside-the-box thinking set them apart from other law firms. Overall, they stand out to me for their exceptional team and client-focused approach.’

‘Working with the team at Shoosmiths has been a pleasure. Their exceptional knowledge and expertise set them apart from competitors. I’ve valued the professionalism, expertise, and outstanding client service that they provide.’

‘It’s the team that make this practice unique, their knowledge and experience are a great asset when instructing them to work on deals with us. They’re responsive and commercially minded, which are critically important to ensure we impress our clients when looking to close transactions.’

‘James Spencer is proactive, and always willing to provide additional advice and support beyond the scope of the engagement. This is really important, when we’re looking to work with clients that quite often throw curve balls at us! James, and team, are flexible and adaptable. This is essential when supporting a growing business like ours, when new structures, underlying collateral types, and jurisdictions are being explored.’

Key clients

HSBC UK Bank plc

Merseyside Pension Fund

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China Limited, London Branch

Invesco Asset Management Limited

Investec Bank plc

Ocorian Trustee (UK) Limited

Oxane Partners Limited

Trimont Europe Limited

Topland Jupiter Limited

Topland Vintage Finance Ltd

Work highlights

  • Advised HSBC UK Bank plc in relation to the amendment and restatement of their £250,000,000 term and revolving credit facilities to the Soho Estates Group.
  • Advised Merseyside Pension Fund in relation to a loan facility made available to a joint venture between developer General Projects and investment management company Neo Capital in order to fund acquisition costs and capital expenditure in respect of the acquisition of the Royal Albert Docks, Liverpool.
  • Acting for Invesco as mezzanine lender in relation to the amendment and extension of an existing facility agreement in relation to a large mixed use property in Oxfordshire.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Sport Tier 6

Work highlights

Corporate and commercial > EU and competition Tier 7

A litany of blue-chip corporate clients turn to the competition group at Shoosmiths LLP for its ability to provide assistance on day-to-day and strategic competition law issues. Standing out for its expertise in the automotive sector, the team is routinely engaged by household names, including major automative manufacturers. The team is led by the ‘very responsive’ Simon Barnes, who has a considerable presence as an adviser to the automotive sector.

Practice head(s):

Simon Barnes

Other key lawyers:

Kiran Desai

Testimonials

‘I’m always confident of being passed to one of their team who are positioned to support our needs.’

‘Simon Barnes and Rachel Rossdale are the two main contacts I interact with the most. Both are commercially minded, whilst sharing their views on any risks with the decisions we need to make.’

‘Simon Barnes is very responsive.’

Key clients

Mercedes-Benz

Honda

Scania

Stellantis

Ageas

Asahi

Haier (Hoover)

Five Arrows Principal Investments (part of Rothschild & Co)

Experian

Mahindra & Mahindra

Work highlights

  • Advised Mercedes-Benz on the implementation of its new agency model for the sale of new cars in the UK.
  • Advised the administrators of Wilko on the merger control aspects of the liquidation divestment process.
  • Secured EU merger regulation approval for the joint acquisition by Five Arrows and TA Associates of Agilio Software, a provider of innovative software solutions in the healthcare sector.

Finance > Corporate restructuring & insolvency Tier 8

Led by the 'exceptional' London-based Lee Sennett and also able to leverage significant resources in Birmingham, the 'responsive, transparent and pragmatic' team at Shoosmiths LLP has particularly strong credentials among IPs, as well as a growing number of funds clients. The firm is very effective at handling work in the mid-market, with Sennett gaining particular acclaim for his work on restructuring plans. The 'highly pragmatic, dependable and approachable' Hayley Capani is skilled at handling insolvency litigation.

Practice head(s):

Lee Sennett

Other key lawyers:

Hayley Çapani; Lucy Sanderson; Victoria Walley

Testimonials

They carry out their work efficiently, diligently and with commercial nous.’

It is a highly responsive, transparent and pragmatic team.’

‘Lee Sennett is an exceptional insolvency lawyer.’

Hayley Capani is a highly pragmatic, dependable, and approachable lawyer. Her expertise in contentious insolvency matters is excellent, and she is a very effective leader.’

Key clients

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

FRP Advisory Trading Limited

International and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC)

Teneo Financial Advisory Limited

Kroll Advisory Ltd

Interpath Limited

Quantuma Advisory Limited

BDO LLP

Endless LLP

British Growth Fund

Work highlights

  • Continues to advise the joint administrators of Wilko Ltd (and associated group companies) in relation to all matters arising from the administration of the retail group which was the most high-profile administration of 2023.
  • Advising the joint liquidators of the Food Retailer Operations Ltd in respect of claims in excess of £450m in what is anticipated to be one of the largest pre-insolvency reviewable transaction claims to date.
  • Acting for the Great Annual Savings Company in one of the first company-led mid-market restructuring plans and establishing new case law.

Dispute resolution > Banking litigation: investment and retail

Led by Alex Bishop and Daren Allen, Shoosmiths LLP boasts a dedicated digital asset and crypto litigation offering and remains a strong choice for representation in all asset finance disputes.

Industry focus > Life sciences and healthcare

A Birmingham-based trio of Andrew Brennan  , Hayley Saunders  and Nina Smith  head up Shoosmiths LLP‘s life sciences offering. The broad practice spans IP, transactional and regulatory expertise.

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) > Artificial intelligence

Shoosmiths LLP has been building up a specialist AI practice in recent years, working with a range of well-known clients on matters covering contracts, corporate and data privacy matters involving AI issues.

Real estate > Environment

West Midlands > Insurance > Personal injury: claimant

Chris McKinney heads the team at Shoosmiths LLP, which is skilled at handling serious injury cases with complex liability issues. McKinney specialises in spinal and brain injury claims, as well as amputation cases. In addition, he has a particular interest in fatal injury claims. Senior associate Kate Price-Marson is also recommended.

Practice head(s):

Chris McKinney

Other key lawyers:

Testimonials

‘Chris McKinney – a truly seasoned campaigner. His experience in life-changing injury cases is second to none. Kate Price-Marson – one of the nicest people you could meet but underneath that is a razor-sharp lawyer who will fight endlessly for her clients.’

‘Chris McKinney guided us through every process no matter how big or small and was very knowledgeable in what he does.’

‘Always quick to respond and provide updates on the case and very easy to reach.’

‘Clear and concise advice and procedures to help make my journey through the claim as comfortable as possible. Empathy and understanding of my situation as you would expect of true specialists.’

‘Chris McKinney and Kate Price-Marson have a great understanding of the field they work in which is outstanding and gives me great confidence in their abilities.’

‘Kate Price-Marson was my solicitor who is a distinguished professional whose exceptional expertise and unwavering commitment to the work on my case was with the highest standard of proficiency.’

‘Led by Chris McKinney, the team at Shoosmiths is first rate. Acting for seriously injured claimants, they bring compassion, experience and bravery. Any defendant would be making an error if they underestimated Shoosmiths.’

‘Kate was really good at taking vital information and then explaining the outcomes and circumstances of each process.’

Shoosmiths : For What Matters
Shoosmiths is a law firm clients choose for excellent service, incisive thinking and above all for our ability to focus on what matters.

From offices across the UK and Brussels, the firm supports some of the world’s most exciting and ambitious businesses; amazing clients making an impact.

Shoosmiths empowers its people to be their authentic selves and deliver together in supportive teams committed to excellence and innovation. The firm has won prestigious industry awards, such as ‘ UK Law Firm of the Year – Large sized firm’ at the British Legal Awards 2023, ‘Legal Team of the Year’ at the Estates Gazette Awards 2022 and has been recognised for being the most active law firm advising on corporate transactions across the UK (Experian, 2023).

Shoosmiths’ innovative approach is also embodied in their non-legal solutions for clients, which complement its technical legal expertise.

The firm also believes in supporting the communities in which it operates, and it is firmly on its ESG journey, with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validating near-term science-based emissions reduction targets, and launching grant-making body ‘The Shoosmiths Foundation’. To find out more about Shoosmiths and the positive impact the firm is making across its clients, people, and ESG and innovations, please visit: Impact report 2024 (shoosmiths.com)

The Shoosmiths client experience. Focused on what matters to you.
International: Much of our work has an international aspect to it; whether this be advising international clients on their inward investment into the UK, advising UK based clients on their outbound work, or multi-nationals on multi-jurisdiction projects.

We act for multi-national businesses and organisations, investment funds, scaling tech businesses, international property developers, retail chains, and others, advising them across a range of services.

In addition, our Brussels office advises clients on EU competition, regulatory and trade law.

Chief executive: David Jackson
Chairperson: Kirsten Hewson
Number of UK partners: 210
Number of other staff:
1,600+

Department Name Email Telephone
Chief Executive David Jackson General.Enquiries@shoosmiths.com 0 3700 863 000
Chairperson Kirsten Hewson kirsten.hewson@shoosmiths.com 0 3700 866 943
Photo Name Position Profile
Melissa Barker photo Melissa Barker Partner and Head of Plot Sales  
Amy Barrs photo Amy Barrs     Amy is a Senior Associate working in the Conveyancing Department.…
Amy Bars photo Amy Bars Amy is a Senior Conveyancing Manager working in the Conveyancing Department. Amy joined…
Ross Bird photo Ross Bird   Ross is a Senior Associate working in the Residential Conveyancing department.…
Sharine Burgess photo Sharine Burgess Sharine is an award-winning lawyer in the serious injury department, acting on behalf…
Melanie Chell photo Melanie Chell Mel is the Director of Client Experience and Culture at Equivo and…
Rebecca Cross photo Rebecca Cross Rebecca joined us in 2001 and has progressed from Assistant Case Handler…
Sarah Cunliffe photo Sarah Cunliffe Sarah qualified in September 2001 and joined Shoosmiths in 2003. Sarah is…
Suman Dally photo Suman Dally Partner  
Kirsty Day photo Kirsty Day Kirsty is a Principal Associate manages a team of conveyancers and conveyancing…
Sarah  Harper photo Sarah Harper Sarah is a a Legal Director (FCILEx), working in the Medical Negligence…
Matthew Kemp photo Matthew Kemp Matthew is a Partner who specialises in real estate. He advises funds,…
Chris McKinney photo Chris McKinney Chris is a Partner and leads the Personal Injury team at Shoosmiths.…
Julian Menzies photo Julian Menzies Julian is a Senior Associate working in the Northampton Plot Sales Team.…
David Parton photo David Parton David Parton heads Shoosmiths’ Personal Advisory Division of Shoosmiths responsible for the…
Andrea Rusbridge photo Andrea Rusbridge Andrea is head of the clinical negligence team in Northampton consisting of…
Julie Scott photo Julie Scott Julie Scott is a Senior Associate working in the Conveyancing department. She…
Elaine  Seamark photo Elaine Seamark Elaine is the Team Manager of the largest conveyancing team located in…
Fraser Shuba photo Fraser Shuba   I am a Senior Associate with over 20 years experience of…
Janine Sutherland photo Janine Sutherland Janine is a Senior Associate in the Conveyancing New Business Team and…
Simon Towler photo Simon Towler Simon, a Senior Associate, has been dealing with personal injury and clinical…
Claire Ward photo Claire Ward   Claire is a senior associate in the Residential Conveyancing department at…
Tim White-Robinson photo Tim White-Robinson   Tim is a Principal Associate in the Real Estate practice group…
Number of UK partners : 210
Number of Lawyers and business support employees : 1600+

Our mission

At Shoosmiths, we are building a diverse workforce that reflects all backgrounds and talents, and a workplace that is supportive and inclusive, recognises and nurtures talent, and has a strong sense of community between colleagues.

We pride ourselves on not being overly hierarchical and pretentious; we want Shoosmiths to be a place where you can be yourself and do your best work. We also understand what this means; maintaining a positive, open culture, understanding the impact that work has on home life and vice versa, and promoting physical and mental health.

Our approach

Communication, consistency, and collaboration are very much the Shoosmiths way of achieving results; this applies to our diversity and inclusion ambitions as well. In practice this means that we consult with our colleagues on initiatives, e.g. through working groups, networks, and employee surveys, seek to maintain a consistent employee experience across Shoosmiths’ offices, and work closely with clients to ensure we meet their needs and identify areas of mutual interest.

We believe talent can come from anywhere, so we actively support initiatives that attract and support people into the legal profession who may not traditionally have had access. We work with external organisations to ensure we are reaching the widest audience possible, as well as on initiatives which contribute to our inclusive working environment.