Freeths LLP‘s varied practice in Oxford is comprised of commercial and residential development, property finance, fund management and regeneration projects, among others, deploying its regional and national expertise to advise clients active in the industrial, automotive and life sciences sectors. Patrick Whetter helms the team, deploying his extensive capabilities across the life sciences, healthcare and publishing sectors. Philip Gray routinely acts for corporate occupiers in relation to property related M&A and disposals, while Laura Brown is routinely entrusted by various corporate, offshore, public sector and charity clients.

Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘We have been very happy with the legal support provided by Freeths relating to commercial leasehold premises.’

  • ‘Patrick Whetter has provided prompt, pragmatic, market-aware advice through our commercial leasing activities, including excellent advice for negotiations around early termination.’

  • ‘Knowledgeable but not restricted by rigid thinking. Quick to respond, commercially aware and always available.’

  • ‘Easy going personal style and ready to discuss issues collaboratively rather than dictate.’

  • ‘A receptive, professional team that explains things clearly and who are efficient.’

  • ‘Strong team seamlessly working together when different specialists are required. Full introductions made to individuals in different disciplines creating confidence in advice given. Quality of work and recommendation is excellent and practical where necessary.’

  • ‘Patrick Whetter fully familiarises himself with the client, transaction and specific requirements of the case.'

  • ‘The approach that the team takes to both routine work and contentious problem solving is consistently pragmatic and unflappable. This gives me, as the client, a confidence that makes my work and decision making easier.’

Key clients

  • Mercedes-Benz Cars UK Limited
  • Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited
  • Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains Limited
  • Micheldever Tyre Services Limited t/a Protyre
  • Oxford University Press (OUP)
  • Perspectum
  • Dogs Trust
  • Clasado Research Services Limited
  • Feefo Holdings Limited
  • First Touch Games Limited
  • Idverde Limited
  • Stine Goya
  • JCC Lighting Products Limited
  • ResMed UK
  • Pembroke College
  • Kitchen Architecture Ltd
  • Helen & Douglas House

Work highlights

  • Advising Micheldever Tyre Services Ltd on the portfolio management (including lease regears, renewals and alterations) of its circa 240 sites across the UK and assisting with its growth strategy which recently included advising on a strategic share acquisition and sale and leasebacks of 11 freehold properties.

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.

Patrick Whetter

Other key lawyers

Philip Gray, Laura Brown