Addleshaw Goddard is reputed for the depth of its expertise in real estate disputes, where the group frequently advises on contentious matters arising from large-scale development projects, acting for a client base of institutional investors, developers and local councils as well as manufacturing, retail and transport sector clients. The firm is additionally well versed in insolvency cases, break options and vacant possession schemes and has experience in telecoms related disputes. The team is led by Julie Middlemass, who is noted for her experience in insolvency cases and company voluntary arrangements, often representing high-profile corporate occupiers. Other key names include Chris McGrath, who acts for public and private sector clients across the full range of contentious property matters; Emily Russell, who is praised by clients for her ‘good, practical advice on a professional negligence matter’; and Elizabeth Cape who stands out for her work with retail clients.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The litigation team works seamlessly with the transaction team to ensure the best service to clients. Having dedicated contacts for litigation matters means that they can maintain familiarisation with clients and their assets.’
‘The team were articulate, have good written communication skills and were able to take instructions from in house counsel as well as technical team members without difficulty. They approached the matter logically and applied great analytical skill.'
‘Both Chris McGrath and Beth Weeks showed great legal knowledge, attention to detail and outstanding research skills. These are fundamental skills required for anyone practicing law and they both excelled. Throughout the matter, they communicated and often provided feedback as to progress.'
‘Reliable service and depth of knowledge across the real estate sector, but specifically within the litigation team.’
‘Professional, approachable, knowledgeable and efficient. There are many good law firms in the market but Addleshaw Goddard stands out in the arena of litigation.’
‘Chris McGrath very quickly grasped the issues at hand for us when we were looking to settle a claim with our previous landlord. Chris demonstrated a commercially focused, pragmatic approach with a great sense of humour thrown in. Chris is experienced in property matters and was able to share his contacts so that we were able to obtain expert property advice which underpinned our response to the claim.’
‘I felt able to trust Chris McGrath very quickly and liked his approach to me as a client. Chris is responsive and met all deadlines. I was never left wondering when I would get a response.’
‘My primary contact is Emily Russell in the Leeds office - Emily is responsive and gives good, practical advice on a professional negligence matter she is handling for us under Chris McGrath's supervision.’
Key clients
- ASDA Stores Limited
- Argo Real Estate Limited
- Associated British Ports
- Aviva Investors
- British Land plc
- British Telecommunications plc
- Columbia Threadneedle Investments
- Entain Holdings (UK) Limited
- Hallo Healthcare Group (aka Lloyds Pharmacy)/Aurelius Group (Private Equity)
- Federated Hermes Investment Management
- Transport for London / Rail for London
- The Councils of Torbay & Hartlepool
- Realty Income Corporation
- UK Infrastructure Bank Limited
Work highlights
- Advised Realty Income Corporation on the contentious aspects of the acquisition of 11 retail parks across England, Wales & Scotland with a share sale valued at over £200m.
- Advising various clients (including institutional investor landlords and retail landlords and tenants) where the potential existence of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) has been identified in properties.
- Represented BT in the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) against its tenant, On Tower UK Limited. Among the issues before the Tribunal for determination were novel points of law regarding interpretation and application of the Electronic Communications Code.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Elizabeth Cape
Addleshaw GoddardPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Julie Middlemass