The ‘excellent’ public and regulatory law department at Bates Wells is led by Matthew Smith, who has more than three decades of experience in his field, including judicial reviews, statutory appeals, and public inquires. Noted for his expertise relating to advertising regulations, Rupert Earle is another seasoned member of the team. Amrita Hurst, Alistair Williams, and Claire Whittle left the firm in July 2023, November 2023, and January 2024 respectively, while Eloise Carey and Natasha Davies joined the team, Carey from Hodge Jones & Allen in September 2023, and Davies in March 2024 from Linklaters LLP.
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They have an exceptional depth of knowledge about the ASA and ad regulation.’
‘Rupert Earle is superb.’
‘They are responsive, clear, and give timely advice.’
‘The firm is excellent with very good all-round client skills.’
‘They have good and swift communicators.’
‘The team offer great expertise, experience, and provide a very high-quality professional service.'
'We have felt very well-supported through the litigation process.’
‘Rupert Earle provides calm, knowledgeable, and insightful advice to every situation and it's a real pleasure to work with him.’
Key clients
- The Royal College of Nursing
- The Waterways Ombudsman
- The Ramblers’ Association
- Audit Wales
- Social Work England
- Advertising Standards Authority
Work highlights
- Advising the Royal College of Nursing on their engagement with the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.
- Assisting a senior executive of Post Office Limited with providing support in preparing witness evidence.
- Defending an application for permission for judicial review brought by a complainant against a decision of the Waterways Ombudsman not to uphold his complaint.
Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Matthew Smith