Based in Newcastle, Weightmans’ property litigation team is known for its sector-focused expertise, advising clients in the energy, utilities, construction, education, licensing and leisure sectors. Steered by employment law specialist Christopher Graham, and supported by legal director Jill Dalkin, the team takes on various disputes concerning accrual of significant arrears leading to the disconnection of supply to commercial premises, as well as breach of covenants involving building works. Dalkin is also an expert on trespass, adverse possession, rights of access, dilapidations and injunctive relief. Mark Reeves, a member of the commercial litigation team, works on high-value franchise disputes and is frequently sought out by energy and utilities sector clients for advice on dilapidations, breach of lease covenants, business lease renewals and forfeiture issues.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

‘The firm has an ability to handle complex matters with vast amounts of data while staying focused on the issue.’
‘Jill Dalkin is very personable and efficient. She communicates well, clearly and readily deals with complicated issues with ease.’
‘Weightmans are very approachable and explain matters in clear language without an over-use of legal jargon. They take time to explain the process and the background of the issue as well as the overall approach.’
‘Jill Dalkin is very knowledgeable and has the ability to clearly explain matters. She takes time to foster relationships and engender good working relationships.’

Key clients

Bellway Plc
Bellway Homes Limited
Northern Powergrid Plc
Northern Powergrid Plc
Camerons Brewery Limited
Northern Electric Plc
South Shore Developments Limited
AND Group Limited
University of Sunderland
Northern Trust Company Limited
Yorkshire Electricity Group Plc
Nucleus Holdings Limited

Work highlights

Assisted the Electricity distribution business in an application for rectification in the First-tier Property Tribunal with subsequent permission to appeal refused by the Upper Tribunal.
Assisting the Elictricity distribution business following receipt of various notices to remove apparatus impacted by a major rail infrastructure project.
Advising Bellway Plc on a claim for damages arising from a developer's breach of planning conditions.

Lawyers

Leading associates

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

Jill Dalkin

Weightmans

Jill is a highly experienced Principal Associate who advises on a broad range of commercial cases undertaking work for a range of international companies, PLCs, educational establishments and high net worth individuals. With a reputation for providing clear, practical solutions in complex disputes, she has wide experience of managing commercial and contractual disputes. Jill also advises on the misuse of confidential information, the enforcement of post-termination restrictions, director’s duties and fraud. Additionally, she has a wealth of experience dealing with high-value real estate litigation for clients ranging from utility companies, commercial property developers, national house builders, investors and commercial occupiers: Breaches of lease covenants Opposed and unopposed business tenancy renewals (Landlord and Tenant Act 1954) Dilapidation claims Trespass

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Christopher Graham

Other key lawyers

Jill Dalkin, Mark Reeves

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