Lisa Stratford
ClarionThe ‘incredibly knowledgeable’ property litigation team at Clarion is well equipped to handle high-value possession claims, secured lending disputes and covenant breaches, while working alongside the firm's banking and real estate teams to conduct mortgage enforcement proceedings and contentious telecoms matters. Sophie Morley leads the team and has extensive experience managing her client’s property portfolios and is increasingly involved in complex contentious property matters. Paige Duller excels at mortgage repossession work, while Lisa Stratford regularly works with banks to advise on insolvency matters. Recent additions to the team include the arrival of Kate Joss and Jessica Wagner from DWF in February 2023 and July 2023 respectively, and Emma Jones from Walker Morris LLP in January 2024.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Kate Joss threw herself into the case and worked so hard to ensure she had full understanding of a very complex case. Before, during and after the trial she has fought for my rights with commitment and passion. Sophie Morley has led the team from the start, and I believe it is her leadership that has ensured that all the team have been so fervently committed to my case.’
‘Sophie Morley has supported us from day one. She's a great leader, expert in her field, diligent and a constant driver of our case - irrespective of who is supporting her. She also does so in a firm but very empathetic way which creates a very personal relationship which is appreciated. Kate Joss is a force to be reckoned with, she is outstanding - picked everything up at pace, delves into the detail when needed but keeps her eye on the bigger picture.’
‘Sophie Morley, Kate Joss and Paige Duller are extremely competent property litigators. Sophie has been building an excellent real estate litigation team in Leeds. All of the members of the team are knowledgeable but combine their expertise with a commercially realistic approach to litigation.’
‘The strength and depth of the team at Clarion is substantial and they have a fair number of specialists which helps tackle some of the more complex cases that can arise. They work exceptionally well as a team and ensure deadlines are adhered to and they do not become complacent on timelines involved in the work they do.’
‘Sophie Morley is excellent - highly experienced and commercial. Kate Joss is a tough litigator.’
‘The Clarion Property Litigation team delivers consistently positive results in property litigation and especially in matters relating to commercial banking finance.’
‘Paige Duller (Associate) - a real star in the making. Legally and technically sound, unflappable and commercially minded - she is the go-to solicitor for Property Litigation at Clarion and in Leeds.’
‘Sophie Morley has excellent client skills, she is bright, personable and I found very easy to work with. Paige Duller is an up-and-coming associate and again I have enjoyed working with her.’
Key clients
- Redefine Paragon Square Hull Limited
- Tate Estates
- Done Brothers Limited (Betfred)
- Placefirst Limited
- Huddle Capital Limited
- Expect Distribution
- Newett Homes
- Ramac Holdings Limited
- Quayside Homes Limited
Work highlights
- Acted for Redefine Paragon Square Hull Limited in relation to a multi-million-pound dispute with its occupant of the basement and ground floors concerning multiple sets of proceedings regarding works undertaken to the building, safety issues, possession, unpaid rent, and damages.
- Acting for Tate Estates in respect of High Court Proceedings for trespass and associated damages.
- Assisting Betfred with managing its property portfolio, which consists of over 1400 stores across the UK.
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.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Sophie Morley
ClarionPractice head
The lawyer(s) leading their teams.
Sophie Morley