In Manchester, Capsticks LLP's practice is led by Paul Lloyd, who is a specialist in housing management work, and Jennifer Hankinson, who has significant housing and regeneration experience and is highly regarded by clients for her ‘extensive knowledge of the housing sector’. Francesca James regularly assists registered providers, local authorities and commercial investors, while 'asset' to the firm Natalie Hurst is a key name of note.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Jennifer Hankinson and Francesca James are very responsive and look to find solutions to challenges that crop up. They are also a good sounding board and at times feel like part of our team.’

  • ‘The Capsticks team provide an unique balance of expertise and commercial understanding. Their knowledge of the sector is excellent, meaning that they can provide an all-round service for their clients.'

  • ‘Jennifer Hankinson clearly selects her team to ensure that her values and culture are at the core of the service that the team offers for clients. They are excellent at listening to the requirements of their clients and providing the correct balance of caution and practical advice in a collaborative and well-considered manner.'

  • ‘Francesca James and Andrea James in particular stand out to us, they are very detailed, explain issues really well and work collaboratively and commercially to resolve problems. They're approachable, responsive and work to tight deadlines when required. It always feel like a team effort to get matters over the line.'

  • ‘Tom Bradbury consistently delivers an exceptional level of service. His professionalism, personal approach and dedication to delivering high-quality outcomes puts him head and shoulders ahead of the competition.’

  • ‘Natalie Hurst stands out: she is diligent, driven, a highly efficient communicator, meticulous, cost efficient and dependable. I'm extremely appreciative that she's on our side as she seems to truly care about getting the best resolution for our organisation. An asset to Capsticks.’

  • ‘Francesca is very knowledgeable and has a very calm and reassuring demeanour, this is noticeable by all parties which allows Francesca to build excellent relationships with the other side's solicitors. No query is ever too much - knowledgeable across all things housing and offers solutions to problems without being prompted.'

  • 'Jennifer Hankinson is always approachable and gives sound advice on all matters. Extensive knowledge of the housing sector.'

Key clients

  • Torus
  • ForHousing Limited
  • Jigsaw Homes Tameside
  • One Manchester
  • Together Housing
  • Muir Group Housing Association
  • Habinteg Housing Association
  • Bolton at Home Limited
  • Clarion
  • Anchor

Work highlights

  • Acting for Torus62 Limited on its largest development scheme in the North of England to acquire land for the construction of 120 units for a combination and build price of £43.6 million.
  • Advising Torus62 on its acquisition of 141 plots from the developer Northstone across two separate sites.

Lawyers

Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Paul Lloyd, Jennifer Hankinson

Other key lawyers

Francesca James, Andrea James, Natalie Hurst, Tom Bradbury