With a strong practice based in Oxford, Freeths LLP advises on a wide range of matters in the agricultural sector such as tax planning work, trusts, and employment law. The team also regularly handles acquisitions and development projects relating to agricultural land. Leading the practice, Iain Davis frequently caters to landowners, farmers, and landed estates. Clare Bellis focuses on development and tenancy disputes within the rural sector. Laura Czapski is another key member of the team; she handles a variety of property work for agricultural clients, which includes advice on easements, farming tenancies, and the sale of land.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘Freeth is professional in their conduct, skill set, and attitude from all areas of the organisation. They give an excellent level of service.’

  • ‘The team stands out for its honesty, integrity, and realism.’

  • ‘Freeths is a very competent firm. They are very efficient.’

  • ‘It was a pleasure dealing with Iain Davis. He was always very prompt in responding to communications. The fact that the transaction was concluded quickly was entirely down to him.’

  • ‘Freeths manage to balance the traditional with the modern. They are a forward-thinking business that hasn't lost touch with the past.’

  • ‘Iain Davis is one of a handful of lawyers in the UK that understands the breadth and longevity of estate management work. He has the wisdom, contacts, and the technical experience that comes with over thirty years of offering top quality advice. He's first-class.’

  • ‘They are exceptionally good. They are the best property/agricultural law team in Oxfordshire.’

Key clients

  • Trinity College Oxford
  • Carington Estate
  • West Wycombe Estate
  • New College
  • Trustees of the Swanbourne Estate
  • Peterborough City Council
  • East Lindsey District Council
  • Central Bedfordshire Council
  • The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution
  • Trustees of the Shotover Estate
  • Tarmac Group of Companies
  • Chancerygate Group of Companies

Lawyers

Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Practice head

The lawyer(s) leading their teams.

Iain Davis

Other key lawyers

Clare Bellis, Laura Czapski, Tom Walker, Balvinder Jaj