The Cambridge office of Tees Law plays a pivotal role in the firm-wide agriculture and estates practice, as it is home to senior partner Catherine Mowat, whose expertise lies in the administration of complex rural estates and succession planning, and 'invaluable' senior associate Alex Waples, who specialises in property matters. Commercial property partner James Dowson also handles transactions for agricultural landowners. The firm is increasingly involved in renewable energy developments for rural clients.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Clear, honest legal advice. Excellent communication skills.’

  • ‘James Dowson has been fantastic to deal with. He provides clear, practical legal advice. Highly recommended.’

  • 'Kirsten Rimmer  is not just a great legal advisor, she is an intrinsically important part of my own business, without whom we would fail to make the most of opportunities that present themselves to us.'

  • ‘James Dowson - Very experienced and competent solicitor. Pragmatic and commercially minded which ensures transactions are balanced and successful.’

  • ‘Alexander Waples has been invaluable, he has offered advice and negotiated on our behalf. He responds quickly and efficiently.’

  • ‘We have received superb service from Alex Waples.’

  • ‘Alex Waples - helpful, easy to contact and gives good advice. Good knowledge of all areas of agriculture and able to help in a wide range of situations- nothing is too small attitude which is appreciated by mutual clients.’

  • ‘I have worked with Alex Waples on a number of matters both in relation to agriculture and estate matters as well as in relation to renewable energy projects. He has always been very knowledgeable, approachable and efficient in advising our mutual clients.'

Key clients

  • Russell Smith Farms
  • Audley End Estates
  • The Middleditch Family

Work highlights

  • Acted on behalf of Russell Smith Farms in connection with the consortium purchase of the Chrishall Grange Farm purchase. The overall purchase included in excess of 1,000 acres of land, buildings and dwellings and was a key transaction in the Cambridgeshire region.
  • Acted on the Copford Hall farm sale as a going concern, in multiple lots to 5 purchasers.
  • Provided advice in respect of agricultural property and business property relief as well as spouse exemption, for a partnership worth £4 million.

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Catherine Mowat, Alex Waples

Other key lawyers

James Dowson, Kirsten Rimmer