The ‘extremely hardworking and diligent’ property litigation practice at Herbert Smith Freehills LLP undertakes high value and complex disputes, ranging from landlord and tenant issues, transactional matters, to telecoms, nuisance, and trespass claims. ’Master strategist’ and industry veteran real estate litigator Matthew Bonye oversees the group and advises on high profile disputes in the commercial real estate space. Lauded for providing ‘exceptionally thorough advice’, Frances Edwards handles contractual disputes and real estate-related insolvency cases, while the ’brilliant’ Matthew Weal acts for clients on rights of light and dilapidation claims. The ‘very capable’ Graeme Robertson is skilled in disputes concerning property fraud, rent review, and business lease renewals.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The Team we have engaged have been extremely hard working and diligent on a difficult matter over some three years. They show comprehensive understanding of all complex matters of property law and dispute resolution.’
‘Matthew Bonye has deep experience to deal with these complex points and excellent case management skills as well a good manner to convey the legal concepts and decision making to us as the client.'
'Graeme Robertson is excellent and very capable.'
‘The property litigation department is a talent pool of classy individuals, ably led by Matthew Bonye, supported by Frances Edwards, Graeme Robertson, Matt Weal and others. They are all brilliant, and work well together as a team.’
‘The team works very well together. Joined up in their thinking and across departments. Very good strong advice always given. ’
‘People and level of expertise has been fantastic, approach to the litigation been insightful and well balanced.’
‘HSF has a huge presence in commercial property litigation.;
‘Matthew Bonye is probably the leading figure in this area. Master strategist. Commands huge respect.’
Key clients
- Bank of Scotland plc
- Portigon Bank (formerly West LB)
- British Land
- The Board of Trustees of the Tate Modern
- Blackstone/Revantage
- Phoenix Life/abrdn (formerly Standard Life Investments)
- Canary Wharf Group
- Gousto (SCA Investments Limited)
- Cleveland Potash Limited (part of ICL Group)
- London & Regional Properties
Work highlights
- Advising British Land on all contentious matters flowing from an urban regeneration project in Europe, including vacant possession strategy, redevelopment advice, telecoms, and rights of light work.
- Acting for the Bank of Scotland plc in defending a High Court claim brought by Macdonald Hotels, who allege breach of good faith terms of lending facilities and forced sale of property.
- Advising Cleveland Potash Limited to defeat the threat of an injunction risking the operation of a polyhalite mine, and to compulsorily acquire property rights under the Mines (Working Facilities and Support) Act 1966.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Frances Edwards
Herbert Smith Freehills LLPPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Matthew Bonye