Director
Barton Legal Limited is a boutique firm that specialises in advising developers and contractors, as well as engineering and manufacturing companies, on large development and alteration projects. The team is also well equipped to act in high-value disputes related to contract breaches, project costs, and delays. Bill Barton, who leads the practice, is renowned as ‘a specialist who knows the sector inside out’ and has wide-reaching expertise in both contentious and non-contentious mandates. Barton advises on contracts and documentation matters for a large volume of domestic and cross-border projects and is particularly noted for his expertise in the renewable energy sector.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Very personable and approachable on all aspects. Fast turnaround on decisions is also a key attribute.’
‘Knowledge and experience of similar situations and the legal points governing these aspects. Bill Barton is outstanding in general, and he is growing a strong team around him, examples being Harry Simpson.’
‘Bill Barton is a specialist who knows the sector inside out!’
‘Bill Barton has built an excellent team, is pushing to innovate and collaborate. We have worked with Barton Legal on a range of projects and during the Covid pandemic witnessed their ability to adapt to new circumstances.’
‘We were interested in their capabilities relating to construction contracts (and specifically FIDIC contracts). We found their knowledge and understanding of the industry to be very good and insightful. What impressed us also was their attention to detail as well as their preference to find solutions rather than litigation as the way forward.’
‘Firstly, the legal advice is great. Secondly, you can't get much more diverse than Barton Legal. Thirdly, you get more attention from Barton Legal than any other law firm I know.’
‘Bill Barton was focused and straightforward to deal with, providing exactly what was needed quickly and efficiently. Harry Simpson was patient and thorough with the contractor who did not have a full understanding of what was required to complete the contract.’
‘Bill Barton is a highly experienced individual who has a very different focus on his clients than others. The service provided is always personal and will always react to the client's needs whatever the challenge. He is always focused on commercial outcomes. He always promotes dialogue with the other party, whatever the challenge, and will lead this dialogue where needed. Training support is provided to enable us to avoid challenges, and this up-front approach is of great benefit to our teams and clients.’
Key clients
- ABM Precast Solutions Ltd
- Brenntag UK Limited
- Bush (Engineering Services) Ltd
- Harepath SW19 Ltd
- Stepnell Limited
- WCO Properties Ltd
- WW Medical Facilities Limited
Work highlights
- Advised WW Medical Facilities on the construction documents for a new £12m private hospital.
- Advised ABM Precast Solutions Ltd on its £5.6m claim against Matière SAS in respect of alleged breaches of contract relating to HS2.
- Advised Bush Engineering Ltd on its contract negotiations with Essar Oil.
Lawyers
Leading partners
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Practice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Bill Barton