England - North West

Backhouse Jones

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Backhouse Jones has particular strength in the road transport sector which includes road haulage operators, logistics businesses, trade associations, bus and coach operators. The practice covers the full spectrum of issues including regulatory, employment, commercial litigation and insurance. Practice head Mark Davies handles regulatory issues covering goods and passenger carriage. James Backhouse is experienced in compliance matters while Jonathon Backhouse is experienced in road traffic investigations.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'They are without a doubt, the experts in all matters road transport-related. They advise on this all day long, so really know what they are talking about. Where other firms seem to dabble in this, they really know their craft. You want them in your corner, not on the other side!'
  • 'The Backhouse Jones business provides an unparalleled depth of knowledge and experience which sets them apart from other solicitors in the same field. Transport legislation is complex and good legal guidance requires not only a keen knowledge of the detail but also a rounded view of how the regulations are interpreted and enforced by regulators and enforcement authorities. Backhouse Jones is close to every detail which allows clients to be provided with options before making truly informed decisions to protect and support their own business.'
  • 'Specialising in what is a relatively niche market, Backhouse Jones have carved an enviable reputation as the leaders in their field and undoubtedly the team are at the heart of this.'
  • 'BHJ have an unrivalled approach to client care and attention to detail. Their knowledge on transport regulation and the wider transport, fleet and HGC sector is unparalleled. We feel as though we are in safe hands when dealing with BHJ.'
  • 'Very personable, always know you by name.'
  • 'I like the fact I got advice from people at a senior level. They do loads of other stuff like training and free webinars, all delivered by lawyers.'
  • 'The individuals at Backhouse Jones stand out for their culture of relationship building. Solicitors are approachable and understanding which makes them a pleasure to work with. The teams passion for the business is palpable and they demonstrate a genuine desire to help their clients.'
  • 'Backhouse Jones are our first port of call for all legal matters and as such we have only limited experience of others in the sector.'

Key clients

  • Biffa
  • Krispy Kreme
  • Go South Coast
  • Abellio
  • Veolia UK
  • Viridor
  • Somerset Passenger Solutions Ltd
  • Blackpool Transport
  • Day Aggregates
  • Rotala plc
  • MDS Distribution Limited
  • Bidfood
  • Tesco
  • Forfarmers
  • Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire
  • Malca-Armit
  • Howdens

Work highlights

  • Advised on the Road Haulage Association collective proceedings claim in the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
  • Appealed to the Upper Tribunal in respect of setting aside the decision of the Traffic Commissioner regarding the refusal to allow the appellant’s application to vary the terms of goods vehicle operator’s licence.
  • Acted for the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) seek to impose a bus franchising scheme under the Bus Services Act 2017.

Lawyers

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Mark Davies

Other key lawyers

Jonathon Backhouse, James Backhouse