L500 08 pp0339-0372 NW - Amazon Web...

North WestNorth West

Corporate and commercial 341

Crime, fraud and licensing 346

Dispute resolution 347

Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359

Projects, energy and natural resources 361

Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) 370

Transport 372

Detailed national index 3

LONDON




Finance 93

Human resources 121

Insurance 139

Private client 159


Public sector 183

Real estate 197

TMT (technology, media and telecoms) 227

Transport 253

REGIONS

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317

North West 339

Northern Ireland 373

Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449

Yorkshire and the Humber 479

NORTH WEST

The impact of the credit crunch in the NorthWest does not seem to be immediate, howeverthis could change in the coming months asbanks struggle to finance deals. There is a

general feeling of caution in the market and less of the‘boom and bust’ mentality.

Nonetheless, several law firms in Liverpool andManchester are either extending their office space ormoving into new and impressive offices. The Manchesterskyline is littered with cranes and there is talk that the‘Manchester Manhattan’ will be built – all of which aresigns that the regional economy remains relatively strong.Liverpool is enjoying the title of the ‘European Capital ofCulture’.

Regional review

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd is a pre-eminent name in the NorthWest across a diverse range of areas. An example of thesheer depth and strength of this firm was demonstratedby its recent addition to the Rolls-Royce panel.

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP had a record year, with revenueexceeding £15m. One highlight for its employmentpractice was its appointment as adviser to McDonald’sRestaurants.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s corporate/banking departmentsin Liverpool and Manchester continue to dominate inthe region as is shown by the sheer size and complexityof the deals it has been involved in. An example of this

was its advice to Bank of Scotland Joint Ventures on the£1.1bn public-to-private of house builder CrestNicholson.

DDWWFF LLLLPP is a firm to watch. It plans to move into newoffices in Liverpool in 2008. This full-service firm is strongin its core areas of corporate, banking, litigation and realestate. Its family law team was considerably enhanced bya number of significant lateral hires.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP was involved in some headline dealssuch as its representation of Flybe Group in theacquisition of BA Connect. This complex deal created anenlarged airline and involved 25 of the firm’s specialistlawyers.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP relocated its Manchester HQ toimpressive new offices in Spinningfields. All round thefirm has been expanding and strengthening its team andannounced record turnover of £86.2m for the 2006/2007financial year.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP’s competition capabilities werebolstered by the addition of Diarmuid Ryan. The firm hasbeen actively recruiting at various levels and has animpressive client base among the region’s strongestbusinesses and brands.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP relocated its Liverpool office. Onthe corporate/private equity side it welcomed DarrylCooke†, Andrew Ashley-Taylor† on the pensions side, SueMorrison† in employment and Alaisdhair MacPhie† forcommercial property work.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP continues to make high-profile,strategic partner appointments across all departments

†see biography in Volume 2 340

Editor: Mary Carmel BarbourAdditional research: Chris Crowe

1122334455667788991100111111221133114411551166117711881199220022112222==22442255

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP 490 118 3 583DDWWFF LLLLPP 466 108 3 512HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP 441 123 2 541PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP 409 110 3 409SStteepphheennssoonns 356 25 6 356BBaarrnneettttss 311 4 1 311WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP 306 64 2 456KKeeoogghhss LLLLPP 271 24 1 336DDLLAA PPiippeerr 263 59 2 1,436CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP 262 48 1 528AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd 254 45 1 812BBeerrrryymmaannss LLaaccee MMaawweerr 239 57 2 514EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP 238 41 1 2,105BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP 203 56 3 203FFoorrbbeess 171 31 8 176HHoorrwwiicchh FFaarrrreellllyy 147 11 1 147BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP 115 17 1 852HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP 113 27 1 570GGoollddssmmiitthh WWiilllliiaammss 105 3 1 105MMaaccee && JJoonneess 102 39 3 102FFaarrlleeyyss 96 15 7 96mmffgg SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP 95 29 1 174PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP 95 25 1 1,048SSiillvveerrbbeecckk RRyymmeerr 89 7 1 108NNaapptthheennss LLLLPP 86 28 6 86

Fee-earners in region

Partners in region

Offices in region

National fee-earners

NNoorrtthh WWeessttTop firms by number of fee-earners

ManchesterLiverpool

Bolton

Chester

Preston

NORTH WEST

and has recruited some key people from what wasformerly Wacks Caller. Its commercial client base includeshousehold names such as Rentokil Initial.

The perception in the market is that CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPPhas undergone considerable restructuring, however thereis no doubt that this firm continues to be a powerfulforce, as evidenced by some of the new clientappointments which include MediaCity.

Clients of WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP lavish praise on its PIdepartment in particular, including its large loss anddisease teams. This firm is undoubtedly a market leaderfor insurance work in the region.

KKeennnneeddyyss opened in Manchester at the end of 2007.Paul McGrath†, Mark Dickson† and Nightingale† are thekey partners in a defendant PI litigation team.

MMccGGrriiggoorrss LLLLPP opened in Manchester at thebeginning of 2008 and has continued to build its team,recently bringing in projects expert, Nick Ogden† fromAAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd.

Corporate andcommercial

Corporate and commercial

MMAANNCCHHEESSTTEERR:: AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd clients consider thefirm a ‘major player’, appreciating the ‘very efficient’ JimTully†, Tim Hamilton† for his ability to ‘structure deals’and Richard Lee† for his ‘encyclopaedic knowledge oftakeovers and mergers of public companies’. New clientsinclude JD Sports and Speedy Hire. It continues to advise3i in the North and BT, advising the latter on a number of

significant transactions including the acquisitions ofBrightview Group and Lynx Technology. The practicereported a significant increase in average deal size, havingrecently completed 29 deals with a combined value of£1.6bn.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP has an active M&A practice, withconsiderable expertise in venture capital/private equitywork. Recently appointed to the newly created role ofhead of corporate in Manchester, Jonathan Watkins is ‘asgood as you get in Manchester’; Neal Shepherd is ‘veryable’; Stephen Devlin ‘very experienced’ and Paul Rimmer‘does good deals’. Darryl Cooke† left in 2007 for HHiillllDDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP. The team was involved in a £255m MBOwhich completed in just five weeks, acting for Newco on the acquisition and Bank of Scotland on the debt andequity provision. Key clients include Barclays Private Equity.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP offers a dynamic transactional practicethat continues to attract significant new clients such asPeel Holdings and Speedy Hire. David Bowcock† is‘sensible’; Daniel Hall† a ‘rainmaker’ and JonathanRobinson† has a ‘pragmatic approach’. Clients like newpartner, the ‘very sensible’ Kuljeet Hothi†; EdwardPysden† who is ‘hugely experienced at advisingentrepreneurs’; and Simon Masters† who is ‘makingstrides in Manchester’ for corporate work. Thedepartment advised Flybe Group on the complexacquisition of British Airways’ BA Connect.

‘Slick operation’ HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP has a steady deal flowprimarily assisting AIM-listed companies andentrepreneurs. Rebecca Grisweood enjoys ‘clientrespect’; Charles Glaskie is ‘commercial’; Alec Craig is a‘rainmaker’; Mark Halliwell ‘gets the deal done’; FrankShephard and James Sheridan are skilled in ‘clientretention’; and Craig Chaplin has ‘exceptional BD skills’. Itadvised JJB Sports’ CEO on his JV with Exista to acquirefounder Dave Whelan’s remaining 29% holding in JJB

Sports. In the first 11 months of 2007, the team advised on165 transactions with an aggregate value of £4.5bn.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP is primarily a transactional practiceand represents a number of private equity houses such asDunedin Capital Partners. It is developing a niche in thechemical sector and new client wins include HexionSpeciality Chemicals. Gregg Davison is ‘sensible’; JaneHaxby is an ‘excellent and pragmatic lawyer’ and TomBridgford is ‘the sort of lawyer in-house counselappreciate’. Clients note that the department ‘providespractical solutions rather than legal problems’. Itrecently advised UK Sports Investments on the £81.6mrecommended takeover of Manchester City FC.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP represents some blue-chipcompanies and the commercial team has gained newclients such as the Ministry of Justice and DHL. Clients saythat Stephen Levy is ‘supportive’; Helen Ridge is ‘sensible’;

341 www.legal500.com

Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27

Offshore Britain 583

The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340



Corporate tax 344

EU and competition 345



Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Regional heavyweights

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterBEACHCROFT LLP ManchesterDLA PIPER UK LLP Liverpool, ManchesterDWF LLP Liverpool, ManchesterEVERSHEDS LLP ManchesterHALLIWELLS LLP Liverpool, ManchesterHAMMONDS LLP ManchesterHILL DICKINSON LLP Liverpool, ManchesterPANNONE LLP Manchester

COBBETTS LLP ManchesterWEIGHTMANS LLP Manchester

Firms are listed A-Z within tiers

NORTH WEST

Scot Morrison, who came from EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP in 2007,‘gives tailored and structured advice’ and Howard Gill is‘well organised’ and ‘very clear in the advice he gives’.The firm acted for Hermes Private Equity and seniormanagement of OyezStraker on the £163m sale ofOyezStraker to ABN Amro Capital.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP focuses on the mid-market corporate sector with clients ranging from owner-managed businesses to large, private companies andother institutions. Tony Harper† is ‘very thorough’alongside the ‘brilliant’ Mark Brandwood†. Thedepartment acted for the sellers in a BIMBO of ParagonUK led by ISIS Equity Partners who, with Yorkshire Bankprovided a funding package of £30m.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP’s commercial team is expanding intothe public sector with clients such as Salford City Counciland Rochdale MBC. Its corporate clients consider SeanFitzgerald† and Paul Johnson† ‘an excellent team’, and IanRiggs† is ‘very systematic’. The firm acted for GreshamLLP on its £21m investment in Hotter Shoes.

DDWWFF LLLLPP has been involved in transactions rangingfrom M&A to private equity, and is also handling someAIM and public company work. New clients includeVertex Data Science. On the transactional front it actedon the sale of Garden Centres of Cheshire to KlondykeProperties. Jonathon Close†, who specialises in privateequity and general M&A, was made partner in 2007.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP recruited Darryl Cooke† inNovember 2007 which should be a ‘great move’ for thefirm as he is ‘good at generating work’. He is leading thecorporate team in Manchester and should develop itsprivate equity practice. The firm has enjoyed somenotable client wins such as Chester Zoo. Jane O’Sullivan†

is a ‘pleasure to deal with’.PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP enjoys a solid deal flow mainly in the

mid-market sector. It acts for clients such as BASF andgained a significant new client in Advance America forwhom it recently acted on a number of acquisitionswithin the UK. The commercial team acts for largeentities including Kellogg’s and Rentokil. Simon Wallwork†

heads the department. BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP focuses on smaller plcs, private

equity and M&A work, with active clients including RBSand Paymex. Clients appreciate Leila Porter†’s ‘timelyadvice’. One of its significant transactions was advisingBraemar on various acquisitions including the acquisitionof Armchair Property Investor.

GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieess SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP represents a widevariety of clients, including owner-managed businesses.Clients report that Mark Hovell’s ‘raison d’être is to getthe deal done as cost-effectively as possible’ and thatChristopher Wilkinson is ‘pragmatic’. The firm advisedPhoenix Medical Supplies on its £49m recommendedcash offer for Nucare.


Leading individuals

MMaanncchheesstteerrAnthony Barnfather† Pannone LLP CrimeRoy Beckett DLA Piper UK LLP Commercial propertyAdrian Bever† Addleshaw Goddard Health & SafetyTom Bridgford Hammonds LLP Corporate and commercialLiam Buckley Hammonds LLP Commercial propertyAndrew Chamberlain† Addleshaw Goddard EmploymentCraig Chaplin Halliwells LLP, TMTMary Clarke DLA Piper UK LLP EmploymentMichael Clavell-Bate† Eversheds LLP Commercial litigationDarryl Cooke† Hill Dickinson LLP Corporate and commercialAlec Craig Halliwells LLP Corporate and commercialNigel Dale† Eversheds LLP Banking and financePaul Devitt† Addleshaw Goddard

Corporate and commercialJonathan Edwards Hammonds LLP Banking and financeRob Fawke† Pannone LLP Banking and financeSean Fitzgerald† Cobbetts LLP Corporate and commecialTony Fitzmaurice† Cobbetts LLP Commercial propertyStephen Goodman Goodman Harvey Commercial propertyJohn Gosling† Addleshaw Goddard Commercial litigationAndrew Gregory† DWF LLP

Insolvency and corporate recoveryRebecca Grisewood Halliwells LLP

Corporate and commercialDanny Hall† Eversheds LLP Corporate and commercialTim Hamilton† Addleshaw Goddard

Corporate and commercialTony Harper† Brabners Chaffe Street LLP

Banking and financeAndrew Harris DLA Piper UK LLP Commercial litigationFrances Harrison† Hempsons Clinical negligenceMark Hovell George Davies Solicitors LLP SportCarol Jackson† Pannone LLP Personal injuryEd Jenkins† Addleshaw Goddard Corporate taxSusan Jenkins† Beachcroft LLP EmploymentMichael Kenyon† Cooper & Kenyon CrimeJoanne Kinloch Pinsent Masons LLP Banking and financeJanet Knowles† Eversheds LLP TMTRichard Lloyd† Eversheds LLP Planning and environmentAnthony Lyons† Kuits LLP LicensingFrank Patterson McCool Patterson Hemsi & Co

Clinical negligenceAndrew Maskill† Addleshaw Goddard Banking and financeJonathan Moakes Halliwells LLP TMTSusan Molloy Halliwells LLP Banking and financeMatthew Morgan DLA Piper UK LLP Banking and financeDavid Moss Hammonds LLP ConstructionSimon Moulden† Pannone LLP Corporate taxAndrew Needham† DWF LLP Corporate and commercialMichael O’Connor† Addleshaw Goddard

Projects and energySimon Pedley† Pannone LLP Commercial litigationChris Phillips Halliwells LLP Personal injury Edward Pysden† Eversheds LLP Corporate and commercialHelen Ridge Pinsent Masons LLP Banking and financeRobert Roper† Cobbetts LLP Commercial litigationDiarmuid Ryan Hammonds LLP EU and competitionClaire Shepherd Hammonds LLP Banking and financeGeoffrey Shindler Lane-Smith & Shindler LLP

Personal tax, trusts and probateKit Sorrell† Pannone LLP Commercial litigationJim Tully† Addleshaw Goddard Corporate and commercialJonathan Watkins DLA Piper UK LLP Banking and financeMaurice Watkins† Brabners Chaffe Street LLP TMTAnita Weightman DLA Piper UK LLP Commercial propertySimon Woolley DLA Piper UK LLP Banking and financeAndrew Wright† Cobbetts LLP Corporate and commercial

continued

Corporate and commercial – Manchester

ADDLESHAW GODDARDDLA PIPER UK LLP EVERSHEDS LLP HALLIWELLS LLP

Hammonds LLP Pinsent Masons LLP

Brabners Chaffe Street LLP Cobbetts LLP DWF LLPHill Dickinson LLPPannone LLP


Beachcroft LLP George Davies Solicitors LLP

Kuits LLPMace & Jones

Laytonsnexus Solicitors

turner parkinson LLP

Berg Legal Lawson Coppock & Hart

Lockett Loveday McMahon (LLM)Stephensons

NORTH WEST

Kuits LLP’s corporate department handles generalcorporate transactions and works with the commercialproperty team on transactions for real estate holdingcompanies. The firm has carried out significant work forclients such as Hair1UK and Henley’s Clothing. Accordingto clients Robert Buckley†, Robert Levy† and KirstiPinnell† are ‘brilliant’.

MMaaccee && JJoonneess acts for owner-managed businessesbut has been involved in some private equity work andaims to further expand into public sector work and theeducation sector. Alan Thompson† is ‘commercial’ andDavid Clinch† ‘strikes a good balance between legal andcommercial issues’. The firm advised Tile Giant on its saleto Travis Perkins, having reorganised the group and carriedout a number of strategic acquisitions on its behalf.

LLaayyttoonnss handles venture capital, private equity andinvestment fund work and has been advising EnterpriseVenture-run funds on investments in various companies.David Sefton† and John Gavan† have ‘good commercialunderstanding’ of issues and Barney Leaf†, associatepartner, is ‘excellent’.

nneexxuuss SSoolliicciittoorrss focuses on the mid-market, howeverthe team completed its highest-value deal to date, the£50m sale of Sport Newspapers. Jamie Lloyd is noted as‘commercial’.

Andrew Sturge† at ttuurrnneerr ppaarrkkiinnssoonn LLLLPP acted for theshareholders of Bender Holdings on the disposal of thebusiness and its subsidiary companies to MetsoCorporation.

BBeerrgg LLeeggaall has noted an increase in commercial work,with a marked increase in commercial agency agreementand related regulatory instructions. Clients appreciate thefirm’s ‘professionalism’.

Stephen Attree† leads a small but versatile team atLLaawwssoonn CCooppppoocckk && HHaarrtt which completed 13 deals withan average deal value of over £3m up to November 2007.

LLoocckkeetttt LLoovveeddaayy MMccMMaahhoonn ((LLLLMM)) acted for theshareholders of commercial insurance specialist UK &

Ireland Insurance Services by COBRA Holdings. PaulLockett† and Rob Loveday† are a ‘safe pair of hands’ forcorporate matters.

SStteepphheennssoonnss primarily assists owner-managedbusinesses and has acted in the mergers of severalcharitable organisations and group reorganisations forprivate companies.

LLIIVVEERRPPOOOOLL:: BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s corporate teamnumbers 20 fee-earners in Liverpool and advised SITAHoldings UK on its £7.5m acquisition of Wilson WasteManagement in Northern Ireland and also on theacquisition by SITA of Resources Management UK for £8m.Clients say that Andrew O’Mahony† is ‘very professional’and Denise Walker† is ‘competent’. Michael Brabner†, whois now the firm’s managing partner, is ‘very statesman-like’.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP has a formidable, deal-drivenreputation in Liverpool and advised Close InvestmentManagement on the £41m sale of Gradus. It continues toadvise Liverpool Football Club & Athletic Grounds andadvised on the JV with Liverpool City Council for theconstruction of a new stadium. Liverpool head ofcorporate David Cadwallader offers ‘considerableexpertise in corporate matters’.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP had a busy year on the transactionalside, advising, for example, on a £138m reverse takeoverof property fund Westbury. Jonathan Brown and CraigScott are ‘very able and bright lawyers who talk a lot ofcommon sense’ and clients say that Sue Russell is‘practical’ and has gained expertise in partnerships.

DDWWFF LLLLPP has a solid transactional practice in Liverpooland acted for the management of Burton’s Foods in relationto the institutional buyout by Duke Street Capital. Clientssay that Kieran Donovan†, who was recently promoted topartner, ‘has a good profile around the City of Liverpool’and that Gareth McIntegart† is ‘a deal doer’.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP had a buoyant year and securedsome key client gains such as The Mersey Partnership. It

acted for Kuehne + Nagel on a complex outsourcing ofdistribution by Britvic Soft Drinks to Kuehne + Nagel.Clients say Mike Jones† is ‘excellent’ for corporate work;Stephen Lansdown†, provides ‘top-quality City advice ata sensible provincial rate’ and clients note that GlynDale-Jones† ‘is a big player locally’. Ian Vicary† left thefirm to join WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP.

MMaaccee && JJoonneess’ Ian Hodgkinson† is a key figure and ledthe team on the £60m sale of Independent PharmacyCare Centres to Lloyds Pharmacy. Clients note that GaryJones† ‘has a lot of contacts in Liverpool’.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP has built up expertise in acting forowner-managed businesses. The firm advised MortgageBroking Services on the acquisition of PMP Network.Clients note that it is ‘beefing up’ its corporate team withthe addition of Ian Vicary† who joined the firm in 2007,and is now head of the corporate department.


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340



Corporate tax 344




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Corporate and commercial – Liverpool

BRABNERS CHAFFE STREET LLPDLA PIPER UK LLPHALLIWELLS LLP

DWF LLPHill Dickinson LLPMace & JonesWeightmans LLP

Lees Lloyd WhitleyO’Connors LLP


NORTH WEST

Tim Polding heads the commercial department atLLeeeess LLllooyydd WWhhiittlleeyy, with the vast majority of his clientsbeing at the top end of the SME market.

OO’’CCoonnnnoorrss LLLLPP has a particular niche in advisinginsurance brokers because of its combination ofcorporate finance and corporate insurance expertise.Nigel Wallis is the contact partner.

EELLSSEEWWHHEERREE IINN TTHHEE NNOORRTTHH WWEESSTT:: A ‘valued partner in alocal context’, AAaarroonn && PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP boasts an impressiveclient base including Merseyside Special Investment Fundand has acted for this fund on deals with an aggregatevalue of over £2m. Stuart Scott-Goldstone joined thefirm in September 2007 as head of the corporatecommercial team, having previously worked at LLaayyttoonnss,replacing Liz Delgado.

DDWWFF LLLLPP’s Preston office continues to be a key playerfor corporate work. Keith Melling† led a team advising onthe MBO of Tay Group and acted for the sellers on thedisposal of the Vantage motor dealership franchise acrossthe North West.

FFoorrbbeess houses a vibrant transactional practice, asdemonstrated by its acting on a £13m asset sale andadvising owners on the sale of nursing homes for anaggregate value of £7m. Daniel Milnes† is a leadingcorporate lawyer in this office.

GGoorrvviinnss’ corporate department acted on over 70transactions in 2007 totalling approximately £124m andacts in deals on average up to £15m. The departmentconcentrates on corporate sales, purchases,reconstructions and fundings. Andrew Curwen† joinedthe practice in 2007 and ‘provides good commercialadvice with plenty of common sense’.

Jonathan Shorrock† heads the department at KKiippppaaxxBBeeaauummoonntt LLeewwiiss.

SStteepphheennssoonnss recently acted for Jackson Stephen (alarge independent North West accountancy practice) inits merger with Moores Rowland of Warrington. NickYates and Kay Waddington are the key partners.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s Preston office has seenan increase in the value of its transactions and advised ona £20m group reorganisation for a leisure company.

CCoorrppoorraattee BBlluuee is a niche practice and handlestransactions ranging in value from £50,000 to £25m; GlynDale-Jones† heads the HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP team; NNeeiillMMyyeerrssoonn SSoolliicciittoorrss acted for Baqus Group which floated onAIM in December; NNaapptthheennss LLLLPP advises a wide range ofbusinesses with a particular emphasis on the OMB/SMEsector; clients like Jeremy Orrell† and Peter Townsend†ofSSllaatteerr HHeeeelliiss CCoolllliieerr LLiittttlleerr for their ‘multi-disciplinaryapproach’; Elaine Hurn is a key figure at TTaayylloorrss.

Corporate tax

Clients commend the ‘excellent’ tax lawyers atAAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd, singling out Ed Jenkins† as ‘verygood for corporate tax’. The practice has beenincreasingly acting on capital markets, structured financeand fund-related work. It was appointed as the soleexternal tax advisers to Lloyds Pharmacy in relation to itsacquisition of Manichem.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP has a focus on M&A-related issues,private equity, real estate tax and employee incentives. Itadvised Carphone Warehouse on the tax issues relatingto its £370m acquisition of AOL. David Thompson is thelead partner in Manchester.

Private equity is a particular strength of EEvveerrsshheeddssLLLLPP’s Manchester tax team. Clients include BarclaysPrivate Equity. It provided strategic tax advice and acted


Leading individuals continued

LLiivveerrppoooollCarole Atkinson† Mace & Jones FamilyMichael Brabner† Brabners Chaffe Street LLP

Corporate and commercialAngela Clearkin† Brabners Chaffe Street LLP

Commercial propertyNoel Fagan† Hill Dickinson LLP Commercial litigationMark Goodwin DLA Piper UK LLP Commercial litigationGlenys Hunt Lees Lloyd Whitley Personal injuryPamela Jones† Hill Dickinson LLP Commercial propertyMark Manley† Brabners Chaffe Street LLP

Commercial litigationMark O’Connor O’Connors LLP Corporate and commercialAndrew O’Mahony† Brabners Chaffe Street LLP

Banking and financeMichael Prince DLA Piper UK LLP Corporate and commercialMark Rathbone† Brabners Chaffe Street LLP

Banking and financeFrank Rogers Lees Lloyd Whitley Personal injuryPhilip Rooney DLA Piper UK LLP Commercial propertyJames Szerdy† DWF LLP Banking and financeDenise Walker† Brabners Chaffe Street LLP

Corporate and commercialRichard Watson† Hill Dickinson LLP Personal injury

Corporate and commercial – Elsewhere in the North West

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterDWF LLP PrestonForbes BlackburnGorvins StockportKippax Beaumont Lewis BoltonStephensons Wigan

Brabners Chaffe Street LLP PrestonCorporate Blue BoltonHill Dickinson LLP ChesterNeil Myerson Solicitors Altrincham

Napthens LLP BlackburnSlater Heelis Collier Littler SaleTaylors Blackburn


NORTH WEST

on Holidaybreak’s acquisition of PGL Group and NST.Deneze Hastings† is the lead tax partner in thedepartment.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP has been advising its listed clients onshare incentive arrangements and assisting on corporatetransactions. Key clients include Tesco Stores. FionaSutherland heads the tax strategies unit and theemployee benefits tax group in Manchester.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP advised on the tax implications of theacquisition of two subsidiaries from United Utilities andhas advised on establishing employee share schemes.Simon Moulden† is the partner in this department.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP’s tax department provides corporateand property tax-planning advice; Joe Swift is the partner.It advised the shareholders of Acodoco on a tax-efficient, pre-sale reorganisation of the group.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP’s ‘sensible’ Tony Hennessy has ledvarious transactions such as the restructuring andcreation of a number of funds for Blue Sky Capital.

The corporate tax team at HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP had abusy year, advising AIM-listed companies and owner-

managed businesses. It advised the management on taxissues related to the MBO of Foreman-Roberts. SaadAhmed† heads the team.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP’s Lynette Jacobs has beeninvolved in advising some of the tax department’s keyclients such as Speedy Hire on its ongoing and new shareincentive arrangements.

EU and competition

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s ‘first-rate practice’ focuses onmerger control, competition litigation and procurement.Phil McDonnell† ‘works well for his clients’ and GarthLindrup and Jonathan Davey† are ‘knowledgeable andexperienced’. A notable client base includes adidas UK. Itadvised Lloyds Pharmacy/IPCC on a 30-day mergerclearance with divestment undertakings with the OFT.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP offers a strong merger-controlpractice with an international dimension and advises onbehavioural and contentious competition issues. The

Manchester, Birmingham and London offices are actingfor SPX in co-ordinating filings in nine jurisdictions inconnection with its £250m acquisition of APV. Leeds-based Adam Collinson† is the lead partner.

DDWWFF LLLLPP has developed a niche in advising foodclients on competition inquiries into the groceries marketand also advises on whistle-blowing and merger-controlissues. Laurence Pritchard† leads the competition team.Clients include Kwik Save.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP offers cross-jurisdictional capacityand had a successful year especially in merger control asit secured a number of OFT clearances for clients such asAinscough Crane Hire. US Airways is a key client andrecent team addition, Diarmuid Ryan, is noted as‘technically very strong’.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP has a solid competition practice led byAmanda Howlett†, with Pannone Law Group adding a


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340



Corporate tax 344




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Corporate tax

ADDLESHAW GODDARD Manchester

DLA Piper UK LLP ManchesterEversheds LLP ManchesterHammonds LLP ManchesterPannone LLP Manchester

Cobbetts LLP ManchesterHalliwells LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP ManchesterPinsent Masons LLP Manchester

EU and competition


EVERSHEDS LLP Manchester

DWF LLP LiverpoolHammonds LLP ManchesterPannone LLP Manchester

Cobbetts LLP ManchesterHalliwells LLP Manchester


NORTH WEST

multi-jurisdictional dimension. It regularly advises clientson horizontal and vertical arrangements and advised aprofessional body in respect of competition from apublicly funded organisation.

The CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP team assists its corporatedepartment on transactional work and offersprocurement advice to public authorities, primarily. MarkFitzgibbon† is the partner in the department whoprovided public procurement and state aid advice toWarrington MBC.

Jonathan Moakes and John Burns are the key playersat HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP.

Crime, fraud andlicensing

Crime

BBuurrttoonn CCooppeellaanndd LLLLPP is a market leader with a diversecriminal practice. Michael Mackey† has been involved innumerous cases involving serious and organised crime,drug trafficking and confiscation proceedings and isdeveloping some skill in defending complex forensic andmedical issues such as Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Michael Kenyon† and Ian Cooper† of CCooooppeerr &&KKeennyyoonn ‘fight for clients, are expert in fraud work andhave been doing the heavyweight cases’. It is a largefraud defence firm and continues to act for the principaldefendant in the largest case ever prosecuted by the SFO.Claire Harvey† joined the firm in 2007 from an in-houseposition; she has considerable expertise in nuclear lawand environmental matters.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s white-collar crime team had agood year, with the practice noting an increase ininstructions from fraud–related investigations intoorganisations with a US parent company and UKsubsidiaries. Richard Smyth is ‘renowned for high-profileregulatory cases’.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP’s crime unit is structured to deal withcriminal, corporate and civil fraud. Currently, by way ofexample, it is retained by a large corporate client facing anOFT investigation into alleged collusive tendering in theconstruction industry. Anthony Barnfather† ‘is the best inthe North’ for ‘fraud, regulatory and business crime’.

SStteepphheennssoonnss offers a ‘very competitive’ service andacts for a considerable number of local authority clientssuch as Warrington Borough Council and WirralMetropolitan Borough covering civil litigation andprosecutions as well as social services and educationwork. It has prosecuted over 2,500 cases for ManchesterCity Council.

TTuucckkeerrss SSoolliicciittoorrss handles a broad spectrum ofcriminal cases with an excellent fraud and business crimeteam. It is also developing an IT crime section. FranklinSinclair† ‘fights for his clients’.

BBrriiaann KKooffffmmaann && CCoo handles a broad range of majorcriminal work such as serious firearm cases, allegations ofattempted murder and is representing an increasingnumber of clients facing prosecutions underenvironmental health protection legislation. ‘It is a verygood legal aid practice’ with Brian Koffman the keyindividual.

DDWWFF LLLLPP remains on the panel for the Motor InsurersBureau. This has generated an increased workload for thepractice, led by James Pinder†. Other significant clientsinclude Ensign and Sabre.

FFoorrbbeess has developed a particular strength in actingfor company directors on criminal issues and successfullydefended a company executive who admitted a minorbreach of a Health and Safety Regulation and wasacquitted of a charge of manslaughter.

KKeeoogghhss LLLLPP is experienced in dealing with all aspectsof motor crime and regulatory prosecutions and acts forindividuals, businesses and insurers. In 2007 SuzanneDrinkwater† joined from HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP and focuses onregulatory defence work.

RRaallllii SSoolliicciittoorrss is the rebranded Betesh Fox. Over thelast year the firm dealt with a carousel fraud case with acombined value of £125m and is involved in a number ofcases arising from the collapse of the sub-prime lendingmarket. Stephen Fox heads the team.

RRuusssseellll JJoonneess && WWaallkkeerr has a broad practice withconsiderable strength in fraud issues. A high-profile casewhich the ‘very personable’ Nick Holroyd† handled wasthe representation of the lead defendant in the KieranFallon race-fixing trial.

Licensing

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP offers a diverse, three-partner licensingpractice, led by Hamish Lawson†, which increasingly actsfor clients facing prosecutions and/or review of theirpremises licences following failed test purchases of age-restricted products. It continues to be involved in PACEinterviews. Clients include Wine Cellar and Hydes Brewery.

KKuuiittss LLLLPP has a varied and solid practice. DuringNovember 2007 it successfully appealed three decisionsof the Manchester Licensing Authority in as many weeksand is increasingly dealing with challenges to NoiseAbatement Notices. Clients include JW Lees andBritannia Hotels. Anthony Lyons† is the licensing partner.

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP continues as sole adviser for allManchester United’s licensing needs with a notablerecent project including advice and conversion of theTrack Licence under the new gambling regime with thenew provider BetFred.


Crime

BURTON COPELAND LLP ManchesterCOOPER & KENYON ManchesterDLA PIPER UK LLP Liverpool, ManchesterPANNONE LLP ManchesterSTEPHENSONS Manchester, WiganTUCKERS SOLICITORS Manchester

Brian Koffman & Co ManchesterDWF LLP Manchester, PrestonForbes PrestonKeoghs LLP BoltonRalli Solicitors ManchesterRussell Jones & Walker Manchester

Hibberts LLP NantwichHill Dickinson LLP LiverpoolIrwin Mitchell ManchesterJMW Solicitors ManchesterLevys Solicitors ManchesterOlliers ManchesterTranters Freeclaim Solicitors Manchester


NORTH WEST

DDWWFF LLLLPP’s seven-associate team handles a broadrange of licensing issues including applications for newpremises licences and personal licences. Some key clientsare in the convenience store market and in Scotland, as itprepares for new licensing procedures.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP enjoyed a busy year, obtaining fournew casino licences for Stanley Casinos and is involved ina judicial review application on the validity of bettingpremises licence applications where betting offices arenot ready to trade. Senior associate Ed Farrelly is the keyadviser on licensing.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP advises an impressive client base,including Macdonald Hotels, Prima Hotels and FirstQuench. A highlight was acting for HospitalityManagement International in the acquisition of varioussites. Chris Eddlestone head the practice.

BBeerrmmaannss advises on liquor licensing and continues toadvise clients such as Heathcotes Restaurants.

LLiicceennssiinngg LLeeggaall is a niche practice specialising in puband gaming licensing. Key clients include University ofLiverpool and Subway. Anthony Horne and RichardWilliams are the two partners in the firm.

Dispute resolution

Commercial litigation

MMAANNCCHHEESSTTEERR:: At AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s outstandingcommercial litigation practice, major highlights include itssuccessful tender for the Abbey National city litigationpanel and bringing the high-profile, £12m CheshireBuilding Society v Dunlop Hayward fraud action to asummary judgment hearing before the CommercialCourt. John Gosling† and John Gatenby† are the ‘elder

statesmen’ of the practice; Michael Isaacs† is well knownand clients appreciate Jonathan Tattersall† for his‘exceptional support’ in arbitration.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s litigation group has an enviableclient base derived from FTSE 350 companies andfinancial institutions such as Barclays Bank Trust Companyand Marconi Communications. Harold Brako advised Bankof Scotland in a significant case under insolvencylegislation. Andrew Harris has a ‘good reputation forfraud work and shareholder disputes’ and Stewart Plantheads the group in Manchester.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP offers a diverse practice with aparticular focus on financial services and mainstreamcommercial disputes and handles some inquiries anddefamation work. The team gives ‘sound and sensibleadvice which is needed in the minefield of litigation’,comment clients. Notable clients include Kellogg’s andTyco. Michael Clavell-Bate† is a ‘very sensible litigator’and led a team which assisted Guardian Europe in a caseinvolving 27 EU jurisdictions, whilst Jonathon Crook† is‘commercial’.

The PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP team ‘provides first-rate support’;Kit Sorrell† is an ‘exceptional lawyer’ and Bill Lister†

‘represents his clients well’. Simon Pedley† is ‘sensible’ andacted for JD Williams/ N Brown Group in injunctiveproceedings against a former director for misapprop-riation of confidential company information. DanGrindey† and Elizabeth Rigney† are now partners.

DDWWFF LLLLPP has seen growth in real estate litigation anddisputes backed by legal expenses insurance. Thelitigation team successfully defended seven directors inproceedings under company director disqualificationlegislation. Joel Heap† joined the firm in 2008 fromCCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP has an active commercial litigationpractice. Julian Diaz-Rainey acted for Global Travel Groupin defending and counter-claiming in a large contractualclaim in the High Court, Chancery Division. Ian Austin andPaul Thomas are ‘fabulous with clients’.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP covers a broad range of issues suchas contractual disputes, pensions and financial servicesdisputes and product liability work. Victoria Leigh is theleading individual in the practice. Of late, the firm adviseda trustee on indemnity insurance issues.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP has developed some expertise insectors such as fraud and IT litigation. It has a significantnumber of university clients and other key clients includeCargill. Clare Taylor is the contact partner.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP handles a mixture of public-sector andcorporate litigation including IP litigation. It acted for theexecutors of a £14m estate in a claim against the estate.Jon Hainey† provides ‘excellent advice’ and Rob Turner†,‘quality advice quickly’.

DDaavviieess AArrnnoolldd CCooooppeerr LLLLPP has achieved a largerecovery for insurers by securing a £12m settlement for its


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340



Crime 346

Licensing 346


Commercial litigation 347

Debt recovery 349

Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Licensing

COBBETTS LLP ManchesterKUITS LLP Manchester

Beachcroft LLP ManchesterDWF LLP Liverpool Manchester

Eversheds LLP ManchesterHalliwells LLP Manchester

Bermans ManchesterLicensing Legal Manchester


NORTH WEST

client arising from a fire and explosion at a chemicalfactory. The ‘intellectually and academically strong’Stephen Gorman† is the lead litigation partner.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP is involved in two significantmatters about to go to trial; one in the VAT & DutiesTribunal and one in the Mercantile Court. Departmenthead, Geraldine Ryan†, has a ‘strong understanding’ ofher clients’ needs. Andrew Bogle† focuses on contentiousprobate matters.

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP advises on a broad array of issuesfrom consumer goods and services litigation to sportslitigation. Jan Levinson† advised Martin Dawes Systems ona major contractual dispute. Clients include Topps Tiles.

BBeerrgg LLeeggaall’s broad practice advises on matters rangingfrom IP to insolvency litigation. Clients like the‘conscientious and professional’ Sydney Fulda.

BBeerrrryymmaannss LLaaccee MMaawweerr is traditionally strong in theinsurance industry but also acts for private commercialclients. Mark Benson† is the contact partner.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP handles a range ofdisputes, including recently winning damages for EsquireGlass arising out of a claim for nuisance and trespass to aright of way. Paul Morton† heads the department.

Headed by Mark Lewis, GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieess SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPPhas a niche in sports and media litigation, defamation and

reputation management. The practice successfully actedfor the defendant in an urgent application in IJS Global(UK) v Geller.

In GGoorrvviinnss’ broad commercial litigation practice,clients like the ‘professional and tenacious’ MichaelMorris†. The team has developed some expertise inprofessional conduct matters.

KKuuiittss LLLLPP has developed some expertise inconstruction disputes. It advised a plc on the terminationof a number of commercial agencies. The ‘exceptional’Andrew Weinberg† and Damian Bailey† are joint heads ofdepartment.

LLaayyttoonnss’ Stuart Farr† has developed a niche in equinelaw and regularly acts on related disputes. The practicerecently advised a major property developer in a six-figure claim for breach of a JV agreement.

MMaaccee && JJoonneess advises on shareholder, professionalpartnership and commercial agency disputes. It has beenadvising on a breach-of-warranty claim with anapproximate value of £3.5m. Graeme Jump† is the contactpartner.

SStteepphheennssoonnss recently settled a significant IP disputefor a plc. The ‘tenacious’ Brendan Treanor and ‘first-ratelitigator’ Richard Dawson-Gerrard are popular withclients.

LLIIVVEERRPPOOOOLL:: DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s litigation group enjoyedan excellent year. One major highlight was advising WiganAthletic FC in the High Court over the lawfulness of theGreater Manchester Police’s charges for the provision ofspecial policing services for football matches at the JJBstadium, led by Andrew Roberts. New clients include LubaFreeport and the Amateur Boxing Association of England.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP advises on a wide varietyof disputes. Mark Manley† is a ‘name that stands out formedia disputes’, and Jacqui Lloyd† is ‘exceptional’; she isacting on behalf of planning consultants in a breach-of-contract dispute.

DDWWFF LLLLPP’s Graham Dagnall† is a ‘solid commerciallitigation partner’. The firm has been active in advising onmembership of a pension scheme and the termination ofa commercial agency agreement.

Harvey Stringfellow moved to HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPPLiverpool in 2007 and guided a North West leisurecompany to victory in disputes with former directorsinvolving breach of fiduciary duties. Clients includeNational Museums Liverpool and Primary Group.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP strengthened its litigation practicewith the addition of James Southworth† who clients say has‘a Magic Circle firm pedigree’. The firm was re-appointed toBarclays Bank’s litigation panel in 2007. Clients appreciateJonathan Berkson† and his ‘quick-to-respond’ team.

Clients appreciate Michael Green† of WWeeiigghhttmmaannssLLLLPP’s ability to move cases ‘in the right direction’. Thepractice successfully represented the directors of CoburgHomes in proceedings involving personal guarantees.Andrew Cox† heads the practice.

Mark Burch oversees the litigation and insolvencyteams at LLeeeess LLllooyydd WWhhiittlleeyy.

MMaaccee && JJoonneess has a focus on insurance, shareholderdisputes and IP litigation. Craig Blakemore† is the keypartner in Liverpool.

MMoorreeccrrooffttss SSoolliicciittoorrss offers a diverse practice andadvises clients on ways of financing the claim such as theavailability of litigation insurance. Anne Heseltine is thecontact partner.

EELLSSEEWWHHEERREE IINN TTHHEE NNOORRTTHH WWEESSTT:: John Devoy is aleading name at AAaarroonn && PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP and is representinga number of companies in the Anglo-European CreditGroup in defence of various claims for the mis-selling offinance agreements by one of the Group’s agents. Keyclients include ICI.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP had a good year, winning aplace on the Panel of Solicitors providing general litigationservices to a consortium of four local authorities. KevinJames† is the litigation partner in the Preston office.

FFoorrbbeess acted for a defendant subject to a freezinginjunction where there were allegations of fraud andtheft and advised a high-profile client on a breach-of-contract case. Robin Stephens† is a key partner.

‘Methodical and precise’ Iain Campbell of HHiillllDDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP defended a breach-of-warranty claim inthe Mercantile Court. Several motorists had convictionsfor speeding in North Wales overturned when the


Commercial litigation – Manchester

ADDLESHAW GODDARDDLA PIPER UK LLPEVERSHEDS LLPPANNONE LLP

DWF LLPHALLIWELLS LLPHAMMONDS LLPPINSENT MASONS LLP

Cobbetts LLPDavies Arnold Cooper LLPHill Dickinson LLP


Beachcroft LLPBerg LegalBerrymans Lace MawerBrabners Chaffe Street LLPGeorge Davies Solicitors LLPGorvins

Kuits LLPLaytons Mace & JonesRowe Cohen Stephensons

Neil Myerson Solicitors nexus Solicitors

Ralli SolicitorsWeightmans LLP

NORTH WEST

Chester office proved that the limit had unlawfully beenreduced to 30 mph by a county council.

Michael Slater† heads the litigation practice at KKiippppaaxxBBeeaauummoonntt LLeewwiiss.

MMaassoonn HHaayyeess has now opened a second office nearManchester airport. Marcus Hayes† is the principal in thefirm and has a particular emphasis on construction,insolvency, property and commercial litigation.

At TTaayylloorrss, Tony Catterall was involved in successfullyacting for a minority shareholder in the Court of Appeal.Nick Scott is the Blackburn-based partner skilled in ADRtechniques. Richard Thomas is a key partner at WWaallkkeerrSSmmiitthh WWaayy.

Debt recovery

Clients are impressed by BBeerrmmaannss’ Julie Hunter who hasparticular strength in factoring and discounting. The firm

offers ‘Bermans Collect’, an interactive case-management,debt-recovery package. Clients include IPC Media.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP had a superb year winning new clientsincluding Argos. Recent highlights include undertakingcharging orders and specialist enforcement work forAnglian Water. Team head is associate Ron Lack, withRichard Webb†, a disputes partner with a speciality indebt recovery.

New client gains for HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP’s Manchester teaminclude Enterprise Rent-A-Car and in Liverpool, Eton Events.Joanne Gardner-Boyes is debt-recovery manager inManchester and Paul Hilton, an associate, leads in Liverpool.

LLeeeess LLllooyydd WWhhiittlleeyy has developed considerableknow-how in the public sector. Mark Burch is responsiblefor the public and private debt recovery department.

The ‘super professional’ team at PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP, led byKarl Williams†, is ‘tremendous’. The department securedregular debt instructions from PFB Self Drive last year.Michael Kennedy† ‘knows how to win a case’.

Michael Parr† is the key partner in BBeerrrryymmaannss LLaacceeMMaawweerr’s Manchester office. The team also assists incontested matters.

DDWWFF LLLLPP’s team is headed by Sharon Williamson†. Itcontinues to handle contracts for clients such as LloydsTSB Commercial Finance.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s team has some notable clientssuch as Barclays Bank. The four-partner department isheaded by Jonathan Berkson†.

TThhoommaass HHiiggggiinnss && CCoo acts for companies quoted onthe LSE and subsidiaries of companies quoted on the USand French stock exchanges.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP’s team is headed by Jill Cox†. Itsecures in excess of £16m of unsecured debt per annum.

AAaarroonn && PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP’s active clients include WelshWater and Hawk Group of Companies. John Devoy is theteam head.


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Commercial litigation 347

Debt recovery 349

Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Commercial litigation – Liverpool

DLA PIPER UK LLP

Brabners Chaffe Street LLPDWF LLPHalliwells LLPHill Dickinson LLPWeightmans LLP

BermansLees Lloyd WhitleyMace & JonesMorecrofts Solicitors

Commercial litigation – Elsewhere in the North West

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterBrabners Chaffe Street LLP PrestonForbes BlackburnHill Dickinson LLP ChesterKippax Beaumont Lewis BoltonMason Hayes SandbachMaxwell Gillott LancasterTaylors BlackburnWalker Smith Way Chester

Keoghs LLP BoltonNapthens LLP PrestonWoodcock & Sons Bury


NORTH WEST

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s team is expanding thework it undertakes for liquidators and administrators.Tony Foley is the department head.

HHiibbbbeerrttss LLLLPP acts for a diverse range of clients suchas large landed estates and public institutional authoritiesincluding Mid Cheshire College. Stewart Bailey is thecontact partner.

Marcus Hayes† is a key lawyer at MMaassoonn HHaayyeess andhas an impressive client base.

Finance

Banking and finance

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd has a standalone banking practicewith a particular focus on asset, leveraged, property andcorporate financing. The ‘superb’ Amanda Gray† actedfor Mitre Capital Partners on the £129m acquisition of thecommercial property finance business of Ansbacher andacted for Alliance & Leicester on facilities for Mitre.Andrew Maskill† is a ‘well-respected lawyer in the assetfinance world’. Principal panel memberships include 3iand Deutsche Bank.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s ‘excellent’ banking practice isprimarily bank-led, with clients such as Bank of Irelandand Barclays Bank. It ‘still has the edge for banking work’and all its banking lawyers are ‘very good operators whoare technically good’. The team advised the Bank of

Scotland Joint Ventures on the £1.1bn public-to-private ofhouse builder Crest Nicholson. Matt Morgan is ‘someonewho really knows his stuff’ especially on leveragedfinance and Matt Christmas ‘delivers with the minimumfuss’. Simon Woolley, now Manchester office managingpartner, has ‘the highest profile for banking inManchester’.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP expanded its team by recruiting SimonPrendergast†, who ‘has a good reputation in the market’,from DDWWFF LLLLPP. The department has particular strength incorporate banking and real estate financing. The‘technically able’ Nigel Dale† was one of the lawyersacting for Jerrold Holdings in negotiating and structuring£900m facilities provided by a bank syndicate. Thepractice also has a strong borrower practice andrepresents corporates such as Davenham Group andRenold.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP is mainly a bank-led practice withconsiderable transactional experience. Richard Capper,‘good at moving the deal forward’, led the team actingfor Anglo Irish Bank on the funding for its £280macquisition of international telecoms business LogicaCMG. Dean Gormley and Richard Sealy have a ‘good wayof operating’. Recent significant client gains includeBarclays Bank and Macquarie Bank.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP’s key strengths include leveraged andproperty finance and PFI; it also handles some capitalmarkets work. One highlight was acting for RBS inconnection with the £250m merger of Eddie StobartGroup and Westbury Group. Jonathan Edwards has a‘can-do attitude’. Barclays Bank is another key client.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP ‘has made very good progress’and the team is a ‘safe pair of hands’. The firm advised

the Bank of Scotland in relation to £360m facilitiesprovided to Peel Media (Holdings) in respect of mediacity– uk. Joanne Kinloch is ‘hard-working and pragmatic’ andMark Yates is ‘very hands-on’. Other clients include HSBCBank.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP specialises in acquisitionand property-development finance. Tony Harper† is thehead of department and is acting for HBOS on a £17mproperty development finance facility. Corporatebanking partner Charlotte Round joined the firm fromCCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP. In the last year the team was appointed tothe panel of Lloyds TSB.

DDWWFF LLLLPP has a broad corporate banking practice andhas built up a particular niche in asset finance. It also hassome expertise in consumer lending. Graham Hall† joinedthe firm from CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP to head the banking team inManchester. Recent significant panel appointmentsinclude Clydesdale Bank. The banking team advised theDowning Group of companies on the funding of itsdevelopment of office and student accommodation inManchester.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP’s banking team is ‘strong in the mid-market’ and was involved in a number of leveragedfinance, real estate and corporate banking transactions.Rob Fawke† is ‘someone who is winning good business’and acted for AIB Group (UK) in financing the £12macquisition of the Belfry Hotel by Hallmark Hotels Group.Andrew Gosnay† was a welcome addition to the team in2007. It gained some substantial new clients last year suchas Investec Bank (UK).

GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieess SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP’s banking departmenthas been appointed to Co-Operative Bank and FortisBank’s panels and continues to consolidate itsrelationship with others, such as Yorkshire Bank. PaulTyrer is department head. The banking team acted in over100 transactions in 2007 covering real estate finance,acquisition finance and general secured lending.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP has a solid reputation in corporateand real estate financing. The team, headed by StephenLansdown†, handled more than £150m-worth of work in2007. The team acted for Co-Operative Bank in the firstof several pre-planned acquisitions by MWB Associates.

KKuuiittss LLLLPP represents a considerable number of bankswith regular clients including Nationwide BuildingSociety, for whom it acted on the refinancing of an £8mportfolio. Javid Shafi† and Elizabeth Winter† werepromoted to partner and both specialise in securedlending, while Javid Shafi† also has a speciality in Islamicfinance. Steve Eccleston† is head of banking and finance.

In the past year MMaaccee && JJoonneess has been instructed toact for banks in the provision of finance for 15 corporateacquisitions with deal values up to £13m. Mike Yardley†,who heads the department, is ‘particularly impressivewith the extent of his technical knowledge’. The teamadvised Co-operative Bank on the £5m acquisition of aMidlands-based silicones distributor.


Debt recovery

BERMANS Liverpool, ManchesterCOBBETTS LLP ManchesterHALLIWELLS LLP ManchesterLEES LLOYD WHITLEY LiverpoolPANNONE LLP Manchester

Berrymans Lace Mawer Liverpool, ManchesterDWF LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP LiverpoolThomas Higgins & Co WallaseyWeightmans LLP Liverpool

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterBrabners Chaffe Street LLP LiverpoolHibberts LLP NantwichMason Hayes Manchester


NORTH WEST

Insolvency and corporate recovery

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s superb insolvency practice mostlyrepresents the administrator/financial institutions, and isinvolved in some management-led work. Clients say thatJohn Joyce† is the ‘best insolvency lawyer in Manchester’;he led the team in advising the seller of Ponden Mill andadvised Ernst & Young as administrator of Ponden Mill.Ged Barnes† is also ‘building up a name’.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s dedicated restructuring team hada busy year with key clients including accountancypractices and financial institutions. It is representingDeloitte in the administration of Music Zone andKPMG/GMAC Commercial Finance in the administrationof Corpack Industries. Peter Somekh is a ‘good technicallawyer’.

DDWWFF LLLLPP has witnessed an increase of some 30% inpersonal insolvency work and has handled some complexindividual bankruptcy cases for Grant Thornton andKPMG. Paul Marsh† is developing some expertise in thisarea. Clients say that Andrew Gregory† is ‘an excellentinsolvency lawyer’. The department acted for Kroll asadministrator of UK Buses.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP’s restructuring group in the NorthWest is on the panels of all of the major UK banks and isnoticing a greater level of involvement with the firm’scorporate clients for restructuring work. The ‘sensible’David Gray† was involved in representing KPMG in theadministration of Kwik Save Stores, whereby 56 storesand 560 jobs were saved.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP strengthened its corporate recoveryteam with the addition of partner Dermot Preston,previously at MMaaccee && JJoonneess. On the transactional side the

team acted for the board of directors of HomeformGroup prior to the administration process. AndrewBuchanan and Gavin Jones are ‘reliable’ and clients saythat Paul Spence is ‘excellent’.

Clients of HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP’s business recovery andinsolvency team say that it is ‘most proactive’ in keepingclients informed and note that Susan Kelly is ‘impressive’and Jeremy Reilly ‘technically sound’. Key clients includeclearing banks, major financial institutions and all themajor accountancy practices. It advised BDO StoyHayward as administrator of Gamble Group ofCompanies, which also involved complex rail-sectoradvice.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP noted an increase in property financeworkouts and insolvencies. The department receivednumerous personal insolvency instructions from trusteesin bankruptcy. Accountants ‘like to use’ team head SeanMcGrath†; he acted for KPMG on the administration ofRBA Plastics on an appointment by Davenham TradeFinance.

GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieess SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP continues its goodrelationship with the Professional Footballers’ Associationand advised it on the administration of Luton Town FC.Clients report that Mark Hovell ‘has good all-roundexperience’ and that the firm is the ‘best mid-tier lawfirm around’.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s insolvency unit is headed byGeraldine Ryan†, who tends to concentrate oncontentious issues. The department was appointed tothe RBS Specialised Lending Services panel, howeverAndrew Tonge left the firm to join nneexxuuss SSoolliicciittoorrss.

Daniel Izza† heads LLaayyttoonnss’ insolvency team. Clientsappreciate him for ‘his ability to understand insolvency

law’. He has strong international contacts as isdemonstrated by the advice given to a Japanese parentcompany on the insolvency of its UK subsidiary. Thepractice undertakes both personal and corporate work.

MMaaccee && JJoonneess clients particularly like associate TomCunnah for his ‘exceptional technical ability’. The broadpractice acted for the partners of Cowgill Holloway onthe liquidation of Costs Certainty. Graeme Jump† headsthe team.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP’s team was enhanced by the addition ofpartner Dylan Quail, who specialises in non-contentioustransactional work for office holders; he was previously atBBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP. Richard Glithero† heads the departmentand acted on the liquidation of Dunlop Textiles forKPMG.

In 2007, PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP’s Manchesterrestructuring and insolvency practice advised ontransactions involving companies with a combined


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Banking and finance 350

Insolvency and corporate recovery 351

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Banking and finance

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterDLA PIPER UK LLP Manchester , LiverpoolEVERSHEDS LLP Manchester

Halliwells LLP ManchesterHammonds LLP ManchesterPinsent Masons LLP Manchester

Brabners Chaffe Street LLP Liverpool, ManchesterDWF LLP Liverpool, Manchester Pannone LLP Manchester


George Davies Solicitors LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP Liverpool, Manchester

Kuits LLP ManchesterMace & Jones Liverpool, Manchester

Cobbetts LLP Manchester Irwin Mitchell Manchester

NORTH WEST

turnover of £2.19bn and 28,100 employees. Jamie White isdepartment head and was involved in advising KPMG (asadministrator of Darcy Industries) during the eight-weektrading period leading up the sale of the business, and onthe sale.

AAaarroonn && PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP regularly undertakes contestedasset realisations for insolvency practitioners. SimonEdwards and Nick Clarke are the two partners in thedepartment in Chester.

Mark Deverell† is the contact partner at GGoorrvviinnss andMark Burch oversees the insolvency team at LLeeeess LLllooyyddWWhhiittlleeyy.

nneexxuuss SSoolliicciittoorrss welcomed the arrival of AndrewTonge, who was formerly head of insolvency at HHiillllDDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP.

TTaayylloorrss acted as lead adviser in the restructuring ofGask & Hawley Group based in Trafford Park. AndrewLivesey is the partner in the department.

Human resources

Employment

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s employment team concentrateson sensitive, high-value matters such as senior executiveappointments/terminations. The firm remains on theBarclays’ HR panel and on the transactional side acted forSpeedy Hire on the acquisition of a competitor whichincluded complicated TUPE and collective-redundancyissues. Andrew Chamberlain† is ‘commercial’ andMalcolm Pike† is another key player in the region.

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP’s retail portfolio is growing with theaddition of new client McDonald’s, as is the public sectorportfolio, where new clients include Leigh NHS Trust. In2007 the practice’s turnover grew by over 30%. Clients saySue Jenkins† is an ‘excellent leader’ and that they ‘have alot of time’ for Paula Cole†.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s Mary Clarke is a ‘class act’; shesuccessfully defended a director’s wrongful dismissalclaim of £2m-plus. Key current clients include DeesideCollege. Mark Leach’s move to WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP is a loss.

DDWWFF LLLLPP has developed sector-specific expertise inareas such as education and automotive. In the retailsector Tim Scott† advised on TUPE issues arising from theacquisition of some 200 food stores. Kate Meadowcroft†

is now partner. EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP’s continues to act for household

names and new client gains include Maplin Electronics.Michael Thompson† is ‘consistently excellent’ and DianeGilhooley† is the ‘best person to deal with on complexissues’; Naeema Choudry† is ‘rated very highly’. Thepractice has advised on collective redundancy andconnected transfer of production overseas.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP has ‘bright lawyers’. Clients note thatMichael Ball provides ‘good advice 24/7’; Michael Burns‘does not waste time’; Ed Cotton ‘knows his clients’business well’. Kerstie Skeaping was promoted to partner,whilst Nicky Benson left to join BBeerrmmaannss. Clients includeMothercare.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP advised on TUPE and restructuringissues arising from the Thomas Cook/MyTravel merger.Nick Jones garners praise for his ‘professionalism’ and‘willingness to go the extra mile’. The Manchester teamhas considerable strength in the retail sector and aburgeoning reputation in the chemical sector with clientssuch as BASF.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP is primarily a contentiouspractice and dealt with multiple tribunal claims for aconstruction industry client. Paul Chamberlain† is‘brilliant’; Marcus Difelice† makes a ‘huge effort tounderstand his client’s business’; Jonathan l’Anson† is a‘realist’; and Andy Cross† has a ‘good reputation’. SimonWhitehead† was promoted to partner in 2007.

In 2007 CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP launched its HR Consultancy toprovide ongoing support on major people-changeprojects and advised Darwen Group on its substantialmanagement restructure. Clients are ‘very loyal’ to JeffMiddleton† and say that Judith Watson† and KevinJaquiss† are ‘excellent’. Clients include Shell International.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s public sector employment workexpanded with the addition of Sue Morrison† and herteam. Clients like Rob Coward† for TUPE advice and notethat the team ‘provides a professional service at acompetitive rate’. The department comprises fourpartners in Manchester and three in Liverpool. Clientgains include Christie Hospital Foundation.

MMaaccee && JJoonneess’ clients report ‘sound commercialadvice’. The firm provided employment advice to aHousing Association and advised an NHS trust on a long-running employment tribunal. Sue Morrison moved toHHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP and Justin Beevor joined AAddddlleesshhaawwGGooddddaarrdd. Mark Hatfield† transferred from Liverpool toManchester, while Phil Allen† joined as a partner fromBBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP’s employment lawyers provide ‘decentand sensible advice’ to clients including Kellogg’s. Thepractice had a successful year acquiring new names suchas Chubb Insurance. David Carmichael† heads thedepartment and Laura D’Arcy† was promoted to partnerin 2007.


Insolvency and corporate recovery


DLA PIPER UK LLP Liverpool, Manchester

DWF LLP Liverpool Manchester


HALLIWELLS LLP Manchester

HAMMONDS LLP Manchester

Cobbetts LLP ManchesterGeorge Davies Solicitors LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP ManchesterLaytons ManchesterMace & Jones Liverpool, ManchesterPannone LLP ManchesterPinsent Masons LLP Manchester

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterGorvins StockportLees Lloyd Whitley Liverpoolnexus Solicitors ManchesterTaylors Blackburn


NORTH WEST

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP has a niche in the universitysector and has two major North West Universities asclients, as well as Royal & SunAlliance. The employmentteam advised Tiscali UK on its acquisition of PipexCommunications. Contact partner is Sara Sawicki.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP had a successful year, recruitingMark Leach and winning major tenders for the practice’sthree biggest clients, including Royal Mail. Stuart Jonesmoved to head the Liverpool office. The employmentteam is successful in education and has a portfolio ofover 20 independent schools in the region. David Jacks is‘excellent’.

The ‘very knowledgeable’ Helen Watson joinedAAaarroonn && PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP from HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP. Activeclients include North of England Zoological Society.Clients appreciate the team’s ‘utmost professionalism’.

Alan Lewis of GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieess SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP leads a‘first-class team’, and clients particularly appreciateassociate Sara Barrett’s ‘exceptional service’.

HHeemmppssoonnss’ Paul Spencer defended CalderstonesNHS Trust in an unfair dismissal claim brought by a seniormanager. Clients like the team, which has a niche NHSpractice, as it ‘takes an honest approach with realisticadvice’.

KKuuiittss LLLLPP’s Sally Bird† is an ‘exceptionally goodnegotiator’, with particular expertise in boardroomemployment issues. Clients include Accurist Watches.

MMaarrttiinn && CCoo is an ‘excellent’ firm for employmentmatters and clients appreciate John Martin†’s ‘warm andfriendly manner’; he is well known in the educationsector and acts for five further education colleges. Otherclients include Acuma Business Solutions.

BBeerrgg LLeeggaall now advises Gafoor Poulty on businessimmigration issues. Clients note that Alison Loveday is‘most supportive and helpful’.

BBeerrrryymmaannss LLaaccee MMaawweerr advises on a broad range ofissues including TUPE claims and all types of tribunal hear-ings and stress claims. Michael Parr† is the contact partner.

Stephen Robinson joined DDaavviieess AArrnnoolldd CCooooppeerr LLLLPPin 2007 from DDWWFF LLLLPP; he is an experienced EmploymentTribunal advocate.

Peter Byrne† head employment at FFoorrbbeess wheresuccesses include recovering substantial compensationfor a client from a national retailer.

GGoorrvviinnss acts mostly for employers. Clientsappreciate Nigel Crebbin†’s ‘high standard of work’.

HHiibbbbeerrttss LLLLPP acts for a number of local companiessuch as Advance Personnel and The Right Sort Mailing.


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Employment 352

Employment: employee/union firms 354

Health and safety 354

Pensions 355

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Employment

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterBEACHCROFT LLP ManchesterDLA PIPER UK LLP Manchester, LiverpoolDWF LLP Liverpool, ManchesterEVERSHEDS LLP ManchesterHALLIWELLS LLP ManchesterHAMMONDS LLP Manchester

BRABNERS CHAFFE STREET LLP Liverpool, ManchesterCOBBETTS LLP ManchesterHILL DICKINSON LLP ManchesterMACE & JONES Liverpool, ManchesterPANNONE LLP ManchesterPINSENT MASONS LLP ManchesterWEIGHTMANS LLP Liverpool

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterGeorge Davies Solicitors LLP ManchesterHempsons ManchesterKuits LLP ManchesterMartin & Co Manchester


Berg Legal ManchesterBerrymans Lace Mawer Liverpool, ManchesterDavies Arnold Cooper LLP ManchesterForbes Blackburn, PrestonGorvins Stockport

Hibberts LLP NantwichKeoghs LLP BoltonLaytons ManchesterLees Lloyd Whitley Liverpoolnexus Solicitors Manchester

Neil Myerson Solicitors Manchestersas daniels Stockport

Stephensons WiganTaylors Blackburn

NORTH WEST

KKeeoogghhss LLLLPP advised Leyland Exports on TUPE issues.Kevin Mc Kenna† is the sole partner.

David Royden† in LLaayyttoonnss is ‘very personable’, whilenneexxuuss SSoolliicciittoorrss successfully acted for the claimant in ahigh-profile whistleblowing case; Carl Moran is the leadpartner.

Employment – employee/union firmsIn May 2008 TThhoommppssoonnss merged with Whittles, whichbrings additional expertise in discrimination, victimisationand equal-pay claims. TThhoommppssoonnss advises on the fullspectrum of trade union law, including industrial actioninjunctions, rule book and recognition issues; the firm

represents three large unions – UNISON, UNITE andGMB. Francine O’Gorman is the principal partner.

LLaayyttoonnss’ clients rely on David Royden†’s ‘astute,methodical and creative problem-solving’; he hasdeveloped a reputation as a prominent class-actionlawyer. The team is representing approximately 550claimants in an age-discrimination claim.

LLeeeess LLllooyydd WWhhiittlleeyy has a niche in religious and sex-discrimination claims. Anthony Marriott is a key name inthe firm.

David Franey† of RRuusssseellll JJoonneess && WWaallkkeerr has a stellarreputation for representing employees and advised theFire Officers’ Association on the establishment of newcollective-bargaining arrangements for middle managersin the fire service and the constitution of the negotiatingbody.

BBeerrgg LLeeggaall successfully acted for a head teacher inrelation to seven conduct-related allegations. Clients likeAlison Loveday’s ‘practical solutions to problems’.

GGoorrvviinnss mainly advises employers and senioremployees but also advises employee clients in relationto unfair dismissal, discrimination, redundancy and claimsin the employment tribunal.

Kevin McKenna† of KKeeoogghhss LLLLPP specialises inrepresenting employers and employees on all areas withinthe jurisdiction of the employment tribunals. Itsuccessfully represented a finance director in a claim forconstructive dismissal.

Health and safety

Clients deem AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s Adrian Bever† a ‘first-rate lawyer’. The team has expertise in representingclients at inquests and in the Magistrates and CrownCourts.

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP acts for a mixture of corporate clients,health trusts and local authorities and advised a client on apotential health and safety issue arising from a probableUK-wide product recall. Iain Moore† is location head.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP clients appreciate the firm’s ‘globalpresence’. The department advises clients on matterssuch as managing regulatory risk and compliance. RichardSmyth is the key lawyer in Manchester.

The ‘dedicated’ DDWWFF LLLLPP team is led by the ‘far-sighted’ Steffan Groch†. One highlight was a landmarkhealth and safety case that went all the way to the Houseof Lords.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP represents prestigious clients such asTarmac, Asda and DuPont. The firm successfullyrepresented a company at an Inquest. ElizabethShepherd† is a prominent name.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP’s clients are impressed with the ‘level ofclient care’. Chris Morrison represented the officers ofVroon Offshore Services following the death of threecrew members on board the Viking Islay gas rig supportvessel.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP undertakes a significant amount ofwork for company directors who face personalprosecutions by regulators. It represented a largechemical factory following a chemical release. Rob Elvinheads the group.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s team is recognised for itsprosecution work with key active clients including theHSE. Simon Parrington† is head of regulatory andenvironment, and clients like Phil James†, who is ‘good atevaluating difficult situations’.

KKeeoogghhss LLLLPP recruited Suzanne Drinkwater† fromHHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP. The team is experienced in dealing withmotor crime and regulatory prosecutions for individuals,businesses and insurers.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP has an impressive client baseadvising on defence and non-contentious work. Itrecently recruited two senior consultants, JonathanCowlan and Gordon Maddan.


Employment employee/union firms

THOMPSONS Manchester

LAYTONS Manchester

LEES LLOYD WHITLEY Birkenhead

RUSSELL JONES & WALKER Manchester

Berg Legal ManchesterGorvins ManchesterKeoghs LLP BoltonLinder Myers CheadlePannone LLP ManchesterRowe Cohen Manchester

Health and safety

Addleshaw Goddard Manchester

Beachcroft LLP Manchester

DLA Piper UK LLP Liverpool

DWF LLP Liverpool

Eversheds LLP Manchester

Halliwells LLP Manchester

Hammonds LLP Manchester

Hill Dickinson LLP Liverpool, Manchester

Keoghs LLP Bolton

Pinsent Masons LLP Manchester


NORTH WEST

Pensions

Clients laud the ‘professional’ DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP team. Inone highlight Ben Miller advised Law Debenture on thedistribution of scheme surplus in the restructuring ofJohn Holt Pension Scheme and advised on the pensionsaspects of the acquisition of Crest Nicholson. Significantclient wins include the Government ActuariesDepartment.

Anthony Miller joined EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP in September2007 as chief executive of Bridge Trustees, itsindependent trustee company. David Griffiths†, who is‘good in front of clients’, advised Nampak on complexsex-equalisation issues on its UK pension arrangements.Ele Lovering† is now partner.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP is advising Viridor WasteManagement on its £500m participation in the LocalGovernment Pensions Scheme and the Local AuthorityWaste Disposal Companies Pensions Scheme. Clientsappreciate Stephen Scholefield’s ‘exceptional, timely andclear advice’ and note that Pippa Read ‘never appearsflustered’.

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd has developed a reputation inthe SIPPs field and advises blue-chips such as BA. JoRatcliffe† is assisting PZ Cussons Group in its ongoingscheme change and is advising it on the pensions aspectsof an £80m company shares acquisition.

Three DDWWFF LLLLPP lawyers exclusively handle pensionsmatters, led by Mark Poulston†. It drafted new trustdeeds and rules for several schemes and providedsupport work on transactions.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP works for 50 occupational pensionschemes. Manchester-based national head PatrickKennedy acted for the trustees of a pension scheme on aproposed merger into another scheme with a combinedasset value of approximately £230m.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP’s Steve Southern is ‘exceptional fortalking the talk that trustees will understand’. Key clientsinclude Homestyle Operations. Andrew Taylor left for HHiillll

DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP and Charmian Johnson relocated fromLeeds to Manchester.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP regularly represents pension fundtrustees. Clients like Andrew Ashley Taylor†, who joinedfrom HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP, ‘one of the most practical legaladvisers in the pensions field’. Tony Huber is set to retire.

Insurance

Clinical negligence – claimant

IIrrwwiinn MMiittcchheellll regularly settles claims in excess of £1m andhas developed considerable expertise in neonatal death-related issues, complex brain injuries and catastrophicinjury claims. Lindsay Wise† ‘explains things well’; sheheads the team and settled an £6.8m claim for an 18-year-old with athetoid spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy andpreserved intelligence.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP’s Stephen Jones†is a ‘stalwart of clinicalnegligence in Manchester’, while Emma Holt† and JohnKitchingman† ‘explain everything’. In a successful year,one notable settlement was the recovery of £7.05m indamages for one client suffering from cerebral palsy.

DDoonnnnss LLLLPP handles the complete range of clinicalnegligence claims from birth injury cases to general andplastic surgical errors. Associate Janet Johnson heads theteam, and was recently involved in the Court of Appealcase, Whitehead v Searle & Anor.

JJMMWW SSoolliicciittoorrss concluded a £4.2m settlement for aboy brain damaged by cerebral palsy at birth. Departmenthead Eddie Jones is ‘absolutely outstanding’.

Glenys Hunt is the team leader at LLeeeess LLllooyyddWWhhiittlleeyy; she specialises in clinical negligence andfrequently assists clients on complicated claims.

The ‘technically very capable’ Trevor Ward headsLLiinnddeerr MMyyeerrss’ department; he has significant expertise inbirth trauma, orthopaedic, ophthalmic and generalsurgery claims.

Niche practice MMccCCooooll PPaatttteerrssoonn HHeemmssii && CCoohandles high-value clinical negligence cases includingcerebral palsy, spinal cord injury and fatalities. FrankPatterson ‘sticks to his guns’.

SStteepphheennssoonnss has obtained significant awards in braininjury cases/fatal claims. Louise Griffiths is the partner incharge of the department.


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Clinical negligence – claimant 355

Clinical negligence – defendant 356

Personal injury – claimant 356

Personal injury – defendant 357

Professional negligence 358

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Pensions

DLA PIPER UK LLP LiverpoolEVERSHEDS LLP ManchesterPINSENT MASONS LLP Manchester

Addleshaw Goddard ManchesterDWF LLP LiverpoolHalliwells LLP ManchesterHammonds LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP Liverpool


NORTH WEST

Clinical negligence – defendant

HHeemmppssoonnss’ core public sector position remains strong. In2007 the Manchester team acted for 20 Primary Care Trustsand 22 NHS Trusts. It successfully defended the GreaterManchester Strategic Health Authority at trial in a £4mobstetric claim. Frances Harrison† heads the department.

Clients appreciate HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s ‘rapid systemfor identifying the expertise within the team andallocating work appropriately’. National Health ServiceAuthority is a key client and the Manchester officeadvises 32 trusts. Mike McKenna† handled the settlementof a £5.75m brain-damaged baby case.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP partners Victoria Morris† andRichard Jolly† act for the NHSLA. Victoria Morris†

specialises in cases relating to orthopaedics, intensivecare medicine and birth-related neurological damage.Richard Jolly† advises trusts, including on consent anddisclosure, and at inquests.

BBeerrrryymmaannss LLaaccee MMaawweerr has handled some high-profile cases involving GMC, GDC and the NHSdisciplinary bodies. It acted for the defendant doctor inThompson v Arnold. Mike Brown† leads the department.

Personal injury – claimant

IIrrwwiinn MMiittcchheellll has a stellar reputation in neurotrauma,asbestos-related disease and workplace accidents/illness.Clients benefit from access to specialist Court of Protectionand Trust Teams and the Investment Management Team.The firm is a panel member, or on the recommended list, ofall the national support organisations in the brain and spinalinjury fields such as Spinal Injuries Association. JonathanBetts† is ‘very astute and personable’.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP had a successful year as isdemonstrated by its appointment to the panel of ACMulr. Carol Jackson† concluded a case whereby the court

approved a net settlement of £8.2m for a teenagerinjured in a road traffic accident. Deirdre Healy† explainsthings ‘clearly and concisely’ and Catherine Leech† is‘very well prepared’. Garret Spring† is now a partner.

RRuusssseellll JJoonneess && WWaallkkeerr’s clients appreciate that theteam ‘talks in a language that clients will understand’.The Police Federation continues to be a key client.Department head Tracey Graham† successfullyrepresented the widow of a mesothelioma victim whohad inhaled asbestos during his time in the textile industry.John Oultram† became a partner in January 2008.

TThhoommppssoonnss is particularly skilled in advising clientson industrial disease (especially abestos) and deafnesscases and also has some expertise in product liability.Matthew Tollitt is Liverpool branch manager and JulieWood manages in Manchester.

At DDWWFF LLLLPP, PI work derived from motor fleet clientsis developing. The practice has recently begun four newcatastrophic injury claims all valued in millions. DavidBlaquiére† leads the team and clients appreciate PeterHolland’s ‘vast experience’ and Steve Hackett†’s ‘excellentknowledge of the law’.

DDoonnnnss LLLLPP’s broad practice handles claims arising fromwhiplash to more complex brain or spinal cord injuries. It hasa particular speciality in military compensation claims forMoD personnel both at home and overseas; Raymond Donnheads the military claims department.

JJMMWW SSoolliicciittoorrss is an active member of the MotorAccident Solicitors Society and is skilled in advisingclaimants in road traffic accidents. Richard Powell is jointhead with Chris Sutton.

JJoohhnn PPiicckkeerriinngg aanndd PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP is a specialist practicethat has represented claimants in asbestos test cases overthe last decade. The team secured a victory last yearallowing former dock workers to sue the government forasbestos illnesses. Kevin Johnson† is a leading partner.

LLeeeess LLllooyydd WWhhiittlleeyy’s Frank Rogers specialises in PIlitigation for its primary client, the POA (formerly knownas the Prison Officers’ Association), and has a particularforte in stress-related claims.

LLiinnddeerr MMyyeerrss handles all aspects of injury sustainedby an individual, whether in the course of employment,road traffic accident, public liability or disease related.The department consists of two partners with AndrewMcBride leading.

MMccCCooooll PPaatttteerrssoonn HHeemmssii && CCoo’s Geraldine McCool isa ‘mover and shaker in high-profile MoD cases’; in 2007she was instructed in a number of helicopter incidents,including those involving special forces, and two Pumacrashes.

SSiillvveerrbbeecckk RRyymmeerr has become a claimant-onlypractice and now handles in excess of 14,000 PI claimsannually. Kingsley Hayes has considerable experience inbrain injury, spinal cord injury and fatal motor accidentclaims.

SStteepphheennssoonnss has been appointed to the panel forthree large legal expenses insurance providers. AnnHarrison is ‘top class’ and Brendan Treanor ‘pushes hardon his client’s behalf’.


Clinical negligence – claimant

IRWIN MITCHELL Manchester, AltrinchamPANNONE LLP Manchester

Donns LLP ManchesterJMW Solicitors ManchesterLees Lloyd Whitley LiverpoolLinder Myers ManchesterMcCool Patterson Hemsi & Co ManchesterStephensons Leigh

EAD Solicitors LiverpoolJohn Pickering and Partners LLP Liverpool, ManchesterLees Solicitors LLP BirkenheadLonsdales BlackpoolMaxwell Hodge Liverpoolnexus Solicitors ManchesterRalli Solicitors ManchesterRussell Jones & Walker ManchesterThe Roland Partnership ChesterThornleys Solicitors Manchester

Clinical negligence – defendant

HEMPSONS ManchesterHILL DICKINSON LLP Liverpool, ManchesterWEIGHTMANS LLP Liverpool

Berrymans Lace Mawer Manchester


NORTH WEST

Personal injury – defendant

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP has a ‘traditionally good insurancepractice’, led in Manchester by Peter Lindsay†, which isincreasingly concentrating on high-value disease andfraud claims together with assistance to insurers onstrategic claims projects. Key clients include Allianz.

Clients appreciate BBeerrrryymmaannss LLaaccee MMaawweerr’s ‘first-class service’ and note that Jonathan Clay† is ‘verydynamic’ and Andrew Relton† is ‘proactive’. The teamhad a successful year and was pleased to gain new client,Motor Insurers’ Bureau. Roger Brooks†, Andrew Kerr† andStuart Hardy† joined from HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP

DDWWFF LLLLPP’s 31-partner practice is ‘tremendouslyproactive’ and has particular strength in catastrophicinjuries. Clients appreciate Ian Slater† and Robert Gray†’sability to come up with ‘imaginative solutions’. PeterMeloy† and Phil D’Netto† joined from HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP. Thefirm continues to act for Royal & SunAlliance.

At HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP, clients appreciate Jason JamesSpencer†’s ‘enthusiasm’. The addition of Lisa Grey†, who

joined from HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP, has bolstered the employers’liability/disease team. The team defended the claimwhich proceeded to the House of Lords on behalf ofCatholic Care (Diocese of Leeds) and its insurers relatingto limitation on child-abuse cases – judgment is pending.Andrew Evans† was promoted to partner; he specialises incomplex public sector work.

The ‘very competent’ KKeeoogghhss LLLLPP advises on the fullgamut of PI, acting for 59 insurers and self-insuredorganisations in 2007 – clients include AXA. SuzanneDrinkwater† joined from HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP, however MikePope left for WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP and Damian Ward forHHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP. Andrew Underwood† is ‘very proactive’and David Tyson† ‘very impressive’.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP’s practice was enhanced by thearrival of Mike Pope from KKeeoogghhss LLLLPP and Sharon Kamilfrom HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP. The practice acts for insurers andself-insured industrial and public sector organisations.Clients appreciate that Mark Hall ‘knows what he isdoing’, especially in the travel sector, and David Holt† ‘isthe market leader in catastrophic injuries’. Will Quinn,

Victoria Coleman, Roddy MacLeod and Sharon Kamil ‘allstand out for their legal knowledge’; Kieran Jones† is a‘strategic thinker for disease claims’, Elaine Chapman’sindustry knowledge is ‘second to none’ and Laura Wilkin is‘one for the future’.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP highlights include being appointedadviser to Primary Claims Management. Robert Muttockis local insurance head and undertakes PI, employers’liability and public liability work.

DDaavviieess AArrnnoolldd CCooooppeerr LLLLPP has a niche in contentioussports, leisure and entertainment work. Partner StephenGorman† led a case on behalf of Luminar establishingthat an indemnity clause was valid and enforceable.

ccoolleemmaannss-ccttttss focuses on high-value, complex PIdefendant work. Roger Coleman† is a prominent name.


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Clinical negligence – claimant 355

Clinical negligence – defendant 356

Personal injury – claimant 356

Personal injury – defendant 357

Professional negligence 358

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Personal injury – claimant

IRWIN MITCHELL Manchester, AltrinchamPANNONE LLP ManchesterRUSSELL JONES & WALKER ManchesterTHOMPSONS Liverpool, Manchester

DWF LLP Liverpool, ManchesterDonns LLP ManchesterJMW Solicitors ManchesterJohn Pickering and Partners LLP ManchesterLees Lloyd Whitley LiverpoolLinder Myers ManchesterMcCool Patterson Hemsi & Co ManchesterSilverbeck Rymer LiverpoolStephensons Leigh

EAD Solicitors LiverpoolFentons ManchesterHilary Meredith Solicitors ManchesterLonsdales BlackpoolMaxwell Hodge LiverpoolThornleys Solicitors ManchesterTranters Freeclaim Solicitors Manchester


Abney Garsden McDonald StockportAmelans Solicitors ManchesterBarnetts SouthportRalli Solicitors Manchester

colemans-ctts ManchesterDavies Arnold Cooper LLP ManchesterGorvins StockportRowe Cohen Manchester

NORTH WEST

Clients have ‘total faith’ in Martin Crabtree† and PaulGeldard† at FFoorrbbeess. The team ‘offers customer servicewhich is second to none’ and is particularly strong onlocal authority work. Its serious and complex claims unitcontinues to grow.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP had significant changes at partner levelwith the departure of nine partners and the arrival ofDamian Ward from KKeeoogghhss LLLLPP, whose key strength isfraud work. The practice acted for the insurers in thepleural plaques test litigation culminating in the House ofLords hearing in June 2007. Kevin Finnigan specialises insevere spinal injury and brain damage cases.

Professional negligence

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s large regional practice numbers sevenpartners and nine qualified assistants, representing a widerange of professionals. Ruth Lawrence† is ‘anaccomplished litigator who copes well with a complexworkload’; Tony Wilson† is ‘well respected’; ChrisStanton† is ‘efficient’ and Sarah Naylor† impresses with‘her speed of service’.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP has seen increased claims arisingfrom PFI projects against construction professionals andalso handles a significant volume of solicitor cases,including one recent case before the Court of Appeal.Key clients include WR Berkeley. Patrick Gaul†, managingpartner, is ‘a pleasure to work with’. Niall Innes† andLouisa Robbins† moved to RRoobbiinn SSiimmoonn LLLLPP.

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd acted for Cheshire BuildingSociety in its well-publicised £12m fraud/negligence claimagainst a firm of surveyors. The practice is also focusing

on universities and the higher education sector. JohnGosling† does a ‘solid and proper job’.

BBeerrrryymmaannss LLaaccee MMaawweerr’s team is led by‘accomplished operator’ Jason Nash†; he is representing afirm of architects being pursued for alleged negligentdesign of over 30 flats which now suffer from acousticproblems.

DDWWFF LLLLPP has been involved in a wide variety of casesand successfully resolved a £8m fire claim alleged to havebeen caused by the negligent advice and/or servicing ofelectrical engineers. David Lund† is the lead partner.

DDaavviieess AArrnnoolldd CCooooppeerr LLLLPP represented solicitors foralleged failure to advise in relation to Dutch divorce lawwith a claim involving a six-figure sum. The firm noted anincrease in solicitors’ negligence claims. StephenGorman† heads the practice.

LLeeggaall RRiisskk is a niche practice advising on professionalindemnity issues with a focus on professional negligenceclaim prevention. Francis Dingwall joined the firm inNovember 2007 from HHeennmmaannss LLLLPP. Clients appreciateFrank Maher and Sue Mawdsley ‘for their knowledge oftheir subject matter’.

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP has some notable clients such asNorwich Union and has been involved in severalmultimillion-pound claims against solicitors and otherprofessionals. Clients ‘highly recommend’ Anthony Hill.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP’s team acted in the successful defenceof a claim against solicitors relating to the sale ofagricultural land. Liz Taylor heads the six-partnerprofessional negligence team.

Last year, PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP was instructed by a newlender client in a large number of cases involvingnegligent valuations. Clients appreciate Paul Jonson†’s‘dedication’ and the ‘sensible’ Kit Sorrell†.

RRoobbiinn SSiimmoonn LLLLPP’s ‘impressive’ practice wasconsiderably enhanced by the addition of LouisaRobbins† and Niall Innes† from WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP. AndrewMacLeod† is ‘a good lawyer with experience up to theHouse of Lords’ and Louisa Robbins† is ‘well liked byclients who have followed her from firm to firm’. It


Personal injury – defendant

BEACHCROFT LLP Manchester

BERRYMANS LACE MAWER Liverpool, Manchester

DWF LLP Liverpool, Manchester

HILL DICKINSON LLP Liverpool, Manchester

KEOGHS LLP Bolton

WEIGHTMANS LLP Liverpool

DLA Piper UK LLP Liverpool, ManchesterDavies Arnold Cooper LLP Manchester

colemans-ctts ManchesterForbes BlackburnHalliwells LLP ManchesterHorwich Farrelly ManchesterRowe Cohen Manchester


Professional negligence

HILL DICKINSON LLP Liverpool, ManchesterWEIGHTMANS LLP Liverpool, Manchester

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterBERRYMANS LACE MAWER Manchester, Liverpool DWF LLP Liverpool, ManchesterDAVIES ARNOLD COOPER LLP ManchesterLEGAL RISK Liverpool

Beachcroft LLP ManchesterHalliwells LLP ManchesterPannone LLP ManchesterRobin Simon LLP Manchester


Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterEversheds LLP Manchester

Keoghs LLP Bolton

NORTH WEST

exclusively handles the defence of professionalindemnity claims and policy-coverage advice.

Private client

Agriculture and estates

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s two partners in Manchester, AlanSturrock† and Nick Shaw† concentrate on high-valueacquisitions and disposals. The firm advised a Cheshiredairy farmer on the closing down of the dairy operationand the setting up of a share-farming agreement on the

retained farmland. Key clients include National AustraliaBank.

NNaapptthheennss LLLLPP’s team provides the full spectrum ofpersonal and commercial advice to the rural businesscommunity and has been involved in the sales of anumber of farms by public auction and several farmingpartnership dissolutions. Geoff Tomlinson† ‘explains thelegal situation in a down-to-earth way’.

OOgglleetthhoorrppee SSttuurrttoonn && GGiilllliibbrraanndd’s ‘knowledgeable’acted for a number of landlords of Moorland Estates inthe grant of sporting leases over their moors and worksclosely with its litigation department in disputes relatingto farm probate and other matters.

WWaallkkeerr SSmmiitthh WWaayy provides its farming and estatesclients with a full service from sales and purchases ofagricultural land, to agricultural tenancies and taxplanning. Peter Collins is very experienced.

Charities

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s ‘well-respected charities practice’acts for more than 100 charities and is a member of boththe HSBC Trust Company and Barclays Trust Companylegal panels. Alan Sturrock† is the contact partner.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s core work is onconstitutional and governance issues and advisedManchester United Foundation on the setting up andregistration of the charity. Jane Lake† is ‘veryprofessional’.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP’s partner, Mark Fitzgibbon†, wasinvolved in creating and registering the Co-OperativeHeritage Trust to hold the archives and artefacts of theCo-Operative Movement and Museum.


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359

Agriculture and estates 359

Charities 359

Family 360

Personal tax, trusts and probate 360


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Agriculture and estates

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterNAPTHENS LLP PrestonOGLETHORPE STURTON & GILLIBRAND LancasterWALKER SMITH WAY Chester

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterBirch Cullimore ChesterHibberts LLP NantwichHill Dickinson LLP ChesterMason & Moore Dutton Chester

Brabners Chaffe Street LLP Liverpool, PrestonKippax Beaumont Lewis Bolton

Charities

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterBRABNERS CHAFFE STREET LLP Liverpool, PrestonCOBBETTS LLP ManchesterDWF LLP LiverpoolHILL DICKINSON LLP LiverpoolKUITS LLP Manchester

Halliwells LLP ManchesterHibberts LLP NantwichPannone LLP Manchester

Aaron & Partners LLP Chester


NORTH WEST

‘Strong’ charities practice DDWWFF LLLLPP worked on themerger of two charities and has continued to work onbehalf of a number of charitable trustees.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s clients include national and localcharities, public bodies, NHS Trusts and local authorities.Paul Baker† is private client head.

Jan Fidler leads the three-partner KKuuiittss LLLLPP team thatadvised HSBP Henshaws on the restructuring of itsoperations and advised on the liabilities which thetrustees would face in so doing.

Family

MMaaccee && JJoonneess has a ‘cracking team’, with clients recom-mending Carole Atkinson† who ‘makes the so-called “MagicCircle” firms look ordinary’; ‘extremely bright’ Emma Collins†

and Tina Dunn† for her ‘very clear advice’. Tina Dunn† actedfor a client in a divorce where assets exceeded £6m.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP is the ‘market leader for family law inthe North West’ and can handle cases where the annualincome is in excess of £1m. The practice has particular

strength in handling financial settlements, parentalresponsibility issues, adoption and wardship issues.Andrew Newbury† has a ‘ferocious intellect’.

Amongst other issues, BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPPadvised on a pre-nupital agreement involving trust andcompany assets worth approximately £25m. HelenMarriott† heads the department.

Patricia Cottrell heads the HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP team thatdeals with all aspects of family law. The team also advisesagricultural land-owning families. Philip Laidlow has leftthe firm.

LLaayyttoonnss advises on complex divorce and childrenissues and is developing a specialist practice incohabitation disputes. Christine Barker† heads the team.

LLiinnddeerr MMyyeerrss undertakes all aspects of divorce,separation and other matters in family disputes. ColinDavies leads the five-partner team.

SStteepphheennssoonnss’ ‘experienced’ team has been involvedin a landmark ongoing case for unmarried fathers. MichaelDevlin has an ‘excellent reputation’.

The family law teams moved from CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP andFletchers Solicitors in Southport to DDWWFF LLLLPP in 2007. The

team acts for business people, their spouses,professionals and sports people. Within the last twelvemonths the team acted on at least six family cases withassets in excess of £100m. James Maguire† is an‘experienced family lawyer’; David Pickering† is ‘wellorganised’; and Lesley Smythe† ‘goes the extra mile forclients’.

FFoorrbbeess advised on a unique case, involving anapplication by the police for the disclosure of a care-proceeding file within a criminal case. David Parkinson†

heads the two-partner team.At GGoorrvviinnss, department head Amanda McAlister†,

‘demonstrates in-depth knowledge of family lawmatters’; her key specialism is ancillary relief cases.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP has been involved in numerousasset-protection cases. Chester-based Paula Milburn† isthe contact partner.

LLeeeess LLllooyydd WWhhiittlleeyy advises on property, financial andchildren issues arising from relationship breakdown.

MMiillllss && RReeeevvee LLLLPP opened in Manchester andenjoyed a significant boost with the arrival of AAddddlleesshhaawwGGooddddaarrdd’s family team led by the ‘very likeable’ NigelShepherd†.

The six-partner MMoorreeccrrooffttss SSoolliicciittoorrss team focuseson divorce, adoption, cohabitation and mediation.

Personal tax, trusts and probate

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd was appointed to the St James’sPlace private client panel and its strong links withinternational banks maintains its activity in the Swissmarket. Alan Sturrock† was involved in complicatednegotiations arising from a claim for damages againstexecutors with significant international interests.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP has specialist knowledge in areasincluding inheritance tax-planning and domicile issues.Department head Hugh Jones† ‘talks the language that aprivate client will understand’. Fiona Dillon† left to joinJJMMWW SSoolliicciittoorrss.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP assists on a wide varietyof issues such as business succession planning andfinancial exit strategies. Mark Feeny† is ‘probably the bestwills/estate-planning lawyer in Merseyside’, according toclients.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP acted for the executors of a £14mestate with substantial land and property in Cheshire in aclaim against the estate. Clients appreciate Joe Swift as‘thorough and professional’; he specialises in tax andestate planning for individuals and owner-managedbusinesses.

DDWWFF LLLLPP administers a large number of estates andhas been involved in drafting wills with tax-planningaspects. Emma Gaudern† is the contact partner.

Tony Hall is a leading individual at GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieessSSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP for inheritance tax-planning structures. It iscurrently advising the trustees of a family trust, who run a£9m business, on the restructuring of the business, andon the fragmentation of the trust.


Family

MACE & JONES Knutsford LiverpoolPANNONE LLP Manchester

BRABNERS CHAFFE STREET LLP LiverpoolHALLIWELLS LLP Liverpool, ManchesterLAYTONS ManchesterLINDER MYERS ManchesterSTEPHENSONS Manchester

DWF LLP Manchester, LiverpoolForbes BlackburnGorvins StockportHill Dickinson LLP LiverpoolLees Lloyd Whitley Chester, LiverpoolMills & Reeve LLP ManchesterMorecrofts Solicitors Liverpool


Birch Cullimore ChesterCheesman & Co LiverpoolHague Lambert Manchester

Hibberts LLP NantwichKippax Beaumont Lewis BoltonLees Solicitors LLP Chester

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterGeorge Davies Solicitors LLP ManchesterIrwin Mitchell ManchesterMason & Moore Dutton Chester

Nightingales Stockportsas daniels StockportTaylors BlackburnWalker Smith Way Chester

NORTH WEST

Carol Mason heads HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP’s practice and hasdeveloped expertise in managing elderly clients’ financialaffairs. Paul Hirst joined from IIrrwwiinn MMiittcchheellll.

HHiibbbbeerrttss LLLLPP merged with Lucas Butter Rushton andspecialises in estates that include agricultural land. DavidYoung† is the contact in the three-partner team.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP has links with accountancypractices, and partners Mike Quinn†, Paul Baker† andFionnuala Kenny† are regularly invited by Camelot toattend National Lottery winner advisory sessions.

KKuuiittss LLLLPP acts for professionals and leading sportspersonalities. The department has been extensively busyadvising on the tax implications to clients of the October2007 Pre-Budget Report. Graham Wood† is ‘absolutelyexcellent’, say clients.

LLaannee-SSmmiitthh && SShhiinnddlleerr LLLLPP is a niche practice handingtrusts, estates and wills. Geoffrey Shindler is ‘very goodat understanding the taxation aspects of offshoretrusts’.

MMaaccee && JJoonneess now offers advice from bothManchester and Knutsford. Peter Houghton† has aparticular emphasis on the tax-planning aspects of willsfor high-net-worth individuals/ estates.

Projects, energy andnatural resources

Private Finance Initiative (PFI)

Clients compliment AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s ‘technically andcommercially right’ advice, and note that Mike O’Connor† is‘genuinely a national lead on PFI transactions’. NigelProctor† advised Peel Holdings and its subsidiary on a £65mproject-financed wind farm. The team is extending itsexpertise into the private sector such as waste projects.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP’s Manchester team is currentlyadvising on £8bn-plus projects. Mark Job heads the groupand Graham Alty is another leading individual. The teamis strong on education, waste, transport, social housingand health projects. It is advising Viridor Laing aspreferred bidder on all aspects of the GreaterManchester Waste Management PFI scheme.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s highlights include advising on theManchester tram extension, Lancashire Waste PFI and

stadia development (Liverpool FC). Key clients includeBNFL and Olympic Delivery Authority. Peter Rout is‘technically a very good lawyer’.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP’s ‘strength is in local authority work’and clients single out ‘procurement specialist’ KuljeetHothi†. Michael Mousdale† advised on the WrexhamWaste PFI Project last year. Other clients include GreaterManchester Waste Disposal Authority.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP’s Neil Wilson led the team acting forthe contractor on the £35m Northampton Mental HealthPFI; he is national head of the group.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP acted for Co-operative Bank assenior lender to Asteral on the Whittington, WhippsCross and Leicester hospitals medical equipment PFIs.Jonathan Edwards has a ‘good approach’.

Stephen Lansdown† leads the HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPPteam and is active in green-energy schemes (combinedheat and power) in the healthcare and other sectors.


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Private Finance Initiative (PFI) 361

Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

Transport 372

Personal tax, trusts and probate

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterPANNONE LLP Manchester

Brabners Chaffe Street LLP Liverpool, PrestonCobbetts LLP ManchesterDWF LLP Liverpool, ManchesterGeorge Davies Solicitors LLP ManchesterHalliwells LLP Manchester, LiverpoolHibberts LLP NantwichHill Dickinson LLP Liverpool, ManchesterKuits LLP ManchesterLane-Smith & Shindler LLP ManchesterMace & Jones Knutsford

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterBirch Cullimore ChesterForbes PrestonGorvins StockportIrwin Mitchell ManchesterJMW Solicitors ManchesterLaytons ManchesterLees Lloyd Whitley LiverpoolMorecrofts Solicitors Liverpoolsas daniels StockportStephensons LeighThompsons Manchester


NORTH WEST

Public sector

Education

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd is advising Salford University on amajor new arts and media centre with an approximatevalue of £60m. Richard Fleetwood† is the contact partner.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s Liverpool office acts for sixuniversities and ten further/higher education collegesand over the past three years has acted for LancasterUniversity on the procurement of a number of projectsincluding Info-Lab 21. Liam Cowell heads locally.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP has significant BSF and PFI experience,with work for academies being one of its largest growthareas. John Boardman† ‘gives excellent presentations’ andJanet Knowles† ‘scores a perfect 10’. It advised on thecreation of the University of Cumbria.

DDWWFF LLLLPP concentrates on work for secondary andHE/FE clients and has advised Higher Education FundingCouncil for Wales. Maria Burquest† is a key partner.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP has a primary and secondaryeducation team and clients appreciate Iain Campbell whois ‘ever available to discuss small details’.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP is representing the universities ofManchester, Salford and Liverpool, with Anna Whethambeing the local partner.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP provides employment advice toover twenty independent schools. Another strength islocal authority work. Clients like Andrew Cooper†.

Health

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd advised a trust on the £337m bond-financed new provision of sites at St Helens and Whiston.Clients note that Mike O’Connor†’s advice is ‘technicallyand commercially right’.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP has carved a niche in the provision ofsupport to NHS trusts applying for foundation status,such as the Manchester Children’s University HospitalNHS Trust, and in developing new structures andmechanisms for delivering primary care services. KevinJaquiss† is ‘pragmatic’.

The HHeemmppssoonnss team is ‘highly skilled and flexible’and clients appreciate Anne Ball†’s ‘great attention todetail’. During 2007 the Manchester team acted for 20NHS trust and 22 primary care trusts. Mental healthadvice is another strength, with Bill Leason† offeringconsiderable expertise.

Allan Mowat† heads the HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP team; hismain areas of expertise include primary care regulatorywork and inquiries. The firm has been appointed to thePanel of Solicitors to provide a range of services to NHSbodies in the West Midlands and South of England.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP advises on defendant clinicalnegligence and general healthcare advisory issues. DavidLewis† acted for Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust on acomplex inquest following the death of a Jehovah’sWitness two days after she gave birth.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP clients include Asda and DuPont.Elizabeth Shepherd† specialises in non-contentioushealth work.

GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieess SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP’s team is headed by AnneFairhurst. Doctors represent a large proportion of her clients.

Christopher Briggs leads the new Healthcare team atHHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP; he is experienced in advising medicalpractitioners and NHS trusts.

Local government

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s Mike O’Connor† is ‘an outstandinglead partner’. The team advised on the Kent Housing Pro-ject, a non-HRA project for the construction of 340apartments across 13 sites in Kent for people with extracare needs.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP has expertise in various public sectorssuch as regeneration and media/leisure. It is acting forPeel Holdings in the procurement, funding and deliveryof Media City. Mark Fitzgibbon† works in this sector.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP continues to do a variety ofcontentious and non-contentious work for localauthorities. It was appointed by Halton Borough Councilto act on the Mersey Gateway project, a £390m projectthat will provide a new bridge over the Mersey.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP’s clients include Liverpool CityCouncil. The firm is advising Cumbria County Council onissues arising on shared services. Denis Cooper, seniorassociate, is a key figure in the department.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP has a broad practice with a keystrength in regeneration. It acted for Liverpool City


Private finance initiative (PFI)


PINSENT MASONS LLP Manchester

DLA PIPER UK LLP Manchester


Halliwells LLP ManchesterHammonds LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP Liverpool

Beachcroft LLP ManchesterPannone LLP Manchester


Education

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterDLA PIPER UK LLP Liverpool, ManchesterEVERSHEDS LLP Manchester

DWF LLP LiverpoolHill Dickinson LLP ChesterPinsent Masons LLP ManchesterWeightmans LLP Manchester


NORTH WEST

Council on the creation of a new District Centre in theGreat Homer Street area. Clients appreciate GraemeCreer†’s ‘know-how in local government’.

‘Planning specialist’ AAaarroonn && PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP isinstructed by more than 50% of the councils within a 30-mile radius of Chester. Simon Carter is team leader.

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP’s key clients include Chester CityCouncil. Clients like Stephen Birchall†, who is ‘good atresponding at short notice with practical advice’.

BBeerrrryymmaannss LLaaccee MMaawweerr has a varied practice withexperience in acting for city and county councils.Jonathan Clay† is the contact partner.

Udo Pope† of PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP led a team which acted forthe Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive on anew contract with Stagecoach for the Metrolink system.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP was bolstered by the arrival ofScot Morrison from EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP; he provides ‘tailoredand structured advice’.

SSllaatteerr HHeeeelliiss CCoolllliieerr LLiittttlleerr’s practice is led by JeremyOrrell†, who has been involved in an array of public-sector transactions.

SStteepphheennssoonnss has particular strength in childcareissues and its department is an approved supplier of legalservices to Manchester City Council.

Real estate

Commercial property

MMAANNCCHHEESSTTEERR:: AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd remains engaged inmany of the region’s most illustrious developments. Itwas instructed by Miller Developments in connectionwith the £1bn Omega scheme, one of Europe’s largestout-of-town business parks. Project leader MarkHaywood† continues to earn accolades for his stellarwork and experience, while Peter Kershaw† is singled outfor his ‘plain-English’ advice and ‘excellent service’.Richard Wheeldon† heads this ‘excellent’, ‘reliable’ and‘professional’ department.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP Manchester retains a formidablereputation regionally, nationally and internationally.Clients include national names such as Land SecuritiesTrillium, as well as local developers such as ModusProperties. Development and regeneration work isgrowing, including representing Modus Alpha Fund on the

£70m town centre redevelopment of Stourbridge andadvising ITV regarding the £100m-plus proposedredevelopment of its Manchester HQ. A large team,including the excellent Roy Beckett, is noted for its ‘getup and go’; ‘perhaps the most capable in Manchester’.‘Heavyweight’ Anita Weightman heads the department;Martin Hallam relocated to Birmingham.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP ‘has the right people with the rightexpertise’. Local clients trust the firm on high-value,complex issues with many also highlighting its public-sector acumen. A continuing role on the Central Salford


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Education 362

Health 362

Local government 362

Real estate 363

Commercial property 363

Construction 366

Planning and environment 368

Property litigation 368

Social housing 369

TMT 370

Transport 372

Health

Addleshaw Goddard ManchesterCobbetts LLP ManchesterHempsons ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP Liverpool, ManchesterWeightmans LLP Liverpool

Eversheds LLP ManchesterGeorge Davies Solicitors LLP ManchesterHalliwells LLP Manchester

Local government

Addleshaw Goddard ManchesterCobbetts LLP ManchesterDLA Piper UK LLP Liverpool, ManchesterEversheds LLP ManchesterWeightmans LLP Liverpool

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterBeachcroft LLP ManchesterBerrymans Lace Mawer Liverpool, Manchester Pannone LLP ManchesterPinsent Masons LLP ManchesterSlater Heelis Collier Littler SaleStephensons Manchester


NORTH WEST

regeneration scheme testifies to its prowess in this areaand an enhanced investor practice was boosted furtherwith the arrival of Sue Edwards† from HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP.Development and regeneration specialist Peter Winnard†

and occupiers-focused Phillip Tunney† stand out; AdrianHill† has relocated from Newcastle.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP’s role as counsel to Peel Holdings onthe procurement, funding and delivery of MediaCity – UKdemonstrates the firm’s regional and national reputation.Stephen Kinsey† and Tiffany Cloynes† are the leadpartners on this project and are part of a large team inManchester headed by Paul Inman† (‘easy to get on with’,‘sensible’). The firm maintains a dynamic regeneration anddevelopment practice, thanks in part to the reputation ofprominent partners such as Tony Fitzmaurice†. MarkBarker† is also highly rated.

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP has diversified beyond its traditionalasset management oriented business and clients highlightthe firm’s aptitude for mid-value transactions.Development and investment work now accounts for asignificant portion of revenues and despite the inhibitedcredit market, the firm advised on a property portfoliopurchase valued in excess of £30m at the end of 2007.Alison Key† and Adrian Wallbank† recently advised on theletting of Westfield Derby, a £340m shopping centre;Stephen Birchall† is recommended for public sectormandates.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP clients applaud the industriousness ofpartners such as Liz Aboud. Attuned to the firm’sbusiness plan, the commercial property practice hasexperienced a rapid influx of public sector work, thanksin part to the efforts of Gareth Atkinson in Manchesterand Liverpool-based Mark Gaffney. The firm has alwaysbeen strong on development, but has focused onregeneration, investment and property finance recently.The firm’s natural client base remains developers andlandlords.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP ‘often punches above its weight’ andit remains strong on development. In Liam Buckley itboasts an exceptionally popular practitioner and hispresence has enabled the firm to gain roles on majorregeneration projects including advising RochdaleDevelopment Agency on the Town Centre Eastdevelopment. The hire of Sonia Hopkinson fromCCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP in January 2008, brings credibility in theinvestment area.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP’s ‘brilliant’ and ‘practical’ department ispraised for its ‘consistently good service’. StephenChalcraft† is often credited with the firm’s dramatic rise inprominence, but partners such as Andrew Rimmer† andStephen Lintott† (‘amazing’) receive significant praisefrom clients. The firm advised developer Urban Splash onthe development and funding agreements with SheffieldCity Council and English Partnerships, relating to theprestigious regeneration of Park Hill flats in Sheffield citycentre.

DDWWFF LLLLPP’s efforts to join the elite commercialproperty advisers in the North West has not goneunrewarded. The merger with Ricksons Solicitors is now

firmly bedded in and it retains a series of senior namessuch as department head Andy Green†. Prestigiousmandates include its advice to St Modwen on the lettingto adidas of 430,000 sq ft of distribution warehouses andoffice accommodation in Trafford Park and thesubsequent forward £33.3m sale to NFU Mutual.

KKuuiittss LLLLPP retains an impressive client base, includingLand Securities, Segro and Development Securities, alongwith national retailer Habitat. A recent emphasis on majorproperty companies has borne fruit, with ModusProperties, Persimmon Homes and BritanniaDevelopments now instructing the firm, among manyothers. A large team of partners includes such seasonednames as Jonathan Marks†, Martin Davies†, DavidHaffner† and Nick Nyunt†.

MMaaccee && JJoonneess’ Manchester practice is led by KarlJackson† (‘very good client manner’, ‘knowledgeable’,‘dedicated’); he is noted for his urban regenerationrecord. It is now gaining regular instructions from theNorth West Development Agency (NWDA) and Artisan.Varun Maharaj is also recommended for secured lendingwork, while the firm’s Liverpool office provides additionalcommercial and residential development expertise.

The relocation of Ian Barker to PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPPManchester brings renewed emphasis on redevelopmentand regeneration, while department head Pamela Youngcontinues to drive forward the investment and bank-lending side of the business. Highlights include advisingEnglish Partnerships on the New Islington MillenniumCommunity in Manchester. Clients highlight the firm’s‘persistence’, ‘sheer quality of service’ and willingness toprovide the ‘A team’.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s advice to DHL, on the£13.9m sale of a warehouse site in Trafford Park to RoyalLondon Mutual Insurance Society, shows its quality clientbase and ability to handle high-value transactions. Thefirm remains strong on development and investmentwork, and continues to act for investment companyaAIM Group. Jim Purves† heads the Manchesterdepartment, which also includes the experienced JohnStreet†, Matthew Dobson† and Peter Marsden†.

GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieess SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP is a ‘very professional’and ‘highly reliable’ firm, say clients. Anne Fairhurst,Jonathan Kay and Paul Bibby are the three partnersleading a team often hailed for its unstinting efforts tocomplete deals. It is particularly well known for LIFT


Commercial property – Manchester

ADDLESHAW GODDARD DLA PIPER UK LLP EVERSHEDS LLP

COBBETTS LLP

BEACHCROFT LLP HALLIWELLS LLP HAMMONDS LLP PANNONE LLP

DWF LLP Kuits LLPMace & Jones Pinsent Masons LLP


Brabners Chaffe Street LLPGeorge Davies Solicitors LLP Goodman Harvey

Hill Dickinson LLP nexus Solicitors

Berg Legalcolemans-ctts Heatons LLPHempsons

JMW SolicitorsLaytons Lockett Loveday McMahon (LLM) Weightmans LLP

NORTH WEST

Health Centres, for which Anne Fairhurst has anoutstanding reputation.

GGooooddmmaann HHaarrvveeyy is led by Stephen Goodman,whom peers recognise for his ability to handle majormandates, particularly in the development arena wherehe boasts a series of loyal developer clients. Despite thefirm’s small size it has a formidable presence and isrecognised for its ‘high-quality’ instructions.

While HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s Liverpool office clearly hasthe heft and resources, Manchester is creating animpressive standalone business. Mike Blakey† and histeam are regularly hailed for both investment anddevelopment work. Blakey continues to represent Eltascoin connection with the Zenith Building at Spring Gardens.Alaisdhair Macphie† joined the practice from the formerRicksons.

Noted for its standing amongst retail tenants, nneexxuussSSoolliicciittoorrss’ Des O’Driscoll and his team are also increasingtheir profile in development and investment, illustratedby their role as counsel to Rocket Properties on the£27.2m acquisition of The Pavilions in Blackpool and toAPCOA Parking (UK) on its acquisition of two leaseholdmulti-storey car parks in Wigan.

BBeerrgg LLeeggaall’s small department is headed by GabyRechnitzer and includes second partner Jonathan Dover.The firm is known for investment work, evidenced by itsrole on the sale of a multi-storey office block in thecentre of Leeds.

ccoolleemmaannss-ccttttss elected Andrew Marsden† to thepartnership. This small department is active in the saleand purchase, development, and property lending areas.

HHeeaattoonnss LLLLPP is best known for property financematters; Nick Trowell heads the practice.

The ‘extremely good’ HHeemmppssoonnss remains aformidable name in the healthcare sector. Senior figureJane Donnison† is singled out for particular praise.

LLaayyttoonnss’ Mark Gillies† has a fine reputation, known as‘thorough’, ‘professional’ and ‘approachable. Clientspraise the team’s ‘responsive’, ‘co-operative’ and

‘pragmatic’ advice. The firm is noted for bank-lendingexpertise.

Terry McMahon† heads the LLoocckkeetttt LLoovveeddaayyMMccMMaahhoonn ((LLLLMM)) practice, that also includes the highlyreputed Michael Rhatigan†. The team enjoys a broadspectrum of clients and instructions, with notablestrength in the healthcare sector – the firm has assistedMeridian Healthcare with a series of care homeacquisitions.

Anne Dobie† heads WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP’s propertypractice in Manchester and is widely commended for herdevelopment and property finance acumen. Clientshighlight her responsiveness and close supervision ofcases.

LLIIVVEERRPPOOOOLL:: DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s client base includes theUniversities Superannuation Scheme, Liverpool FC andEnglish Partnerships. It has a virtually peerless reputationfor regeneration and investment work in the city. Itcontinues to win praise for its role on the KingsWaterfront development and still advises Liverpool FCon its proposed new stadium. Mark Beardwood heads thepractice, which includes respected public sector expertPhilip Rooney.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP has a mighty reputation inLiverpool, with clients recognising the immense size ofthe team and high-quality service. Partners such as TonyHoughton† (‘excellent qualities’, ‘professional’, ‘bright’,‘commercially aware’), Pamela Jones† and DavidSwaffield† have set the standard. Retail, developmentand investment work is where the firm excels, and itcontinues to be instructed by numerous local councils.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP has one of the largestproperty practices in Liverpool that houses a dedicateddevelopment team, headed by Jeff Gilbanks† (‘very goodstandard of service’), covering both commercial andresidential projects. The firm also represents a series ofnational clients on the retail and investment front, andhas earned itself a name on the bank lending side.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP’s expanded Liverpool team numbersseven partners and 17 fee-earners. Mark Gaffney’s recentarrival from MMaaccee && JJoonneess has prompted additionaldevelopment and investment work, while the firm’s roleas counsel to National Museums Liverpool in connectionwith the development of the Pier Head Liverpooldemonstrates its reputation in the region; Alex McCannwas the lead partner. Liverpool-based David Morgan hasextensive retail and leisure experience; Thresher Group isa key client.

For development and regeneration there are fewwith such an established record as DDWWFF LLLLPP. Experiencedfigure Guy Wallis† recently advised on the acquisition andsecond phase of Liverpool Science Park.


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363


Construction 366



Social housing 369

TMT 370

Transport 372

Commercial property – Liverpool

DLA PIPER UK LLPHILL DICKINSON LLP

Brabners Chaffe Street LLPHalliwells LLP

DWF LLPMace & Jones


Lees Lloyd WhitleyMurphy Hodgkinson LLP

Weightmans LLP

NORTH WEST

Despite Mark Gaffney’s departure, MMaaccee && JJoonneessLiverpool maintains an impressive name for developmentand investment. Janice Weatherly† recently advised YourSpace on a variety of investment and regeneration deals.

Martin Walker heads the department at LLeeeess LLllooyyddWWhhiittlleeyy, which is recommended for investment anddevelopment work. Paul Armstrong and retail andindustrial specialist David Sewell lend strong back-up.

Karen Murphy† of MMuurrpphhyy HHooddggkkiinnssoonn LLLLPP has astellar reputation particularly for residentialdevelopment. The firm acts for several major housebuilders.

Widely applauded for both public and private sectorwork particularly in the development arena, WWeeiigghhttmmaannssLLLLPP’s clients enjoy a tight relationship with the firm andhave the ‘utmost faith’ in partners such as CliveBleasdale†. The team is regarded as ‘hardworking’,‘likeable’, ‘responsive’ and ‘effective’, with David Tabinor a‘safe pair of hands’.

EELLSSEEWWHHEERREE IINN TTHHEE NNOORRTTHH WWEESSTT:: Ross Shine† headsBBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s practice in Preston. The firmhas unrivalled coverage of the region and representsnumerous local businesses, notably in the leisure industry.

Robin Jones† heads HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s Chesterdepartment with additional support from partnersChristine Lewis-Ethelston† and Brent Williams†. It hasbuilt an eminent reputation throughout Cheshire and

North Wales. Its appointment on the Chester Super Zooproject earns it a top-tier ranking.

JJMMWW SSoolliicciittoorrss has a fine reputation with Jim Banfi,Ian Gordon and Paul Walker recommended forinvestment, development and portfolio-management.An impressive client base includes some national retailers.

AAaarroonn && PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP recruited Colin Rowe, adding toan already experienced team that includes RichardForrester. The firm has a reputation for majorregeneration work over the years and its stellar planningand environment practice obviously helps to promote itsproperty business.

DDWWFF LLLLPP’s Preston office forms an integral part of thefirm’s near-peerless regional credentials. Its distinct emphasison property business across all its offices is a major sellingpoint. Preston-based Roland Maguire† stands out.

FFoorrbbeess’ team includes several experienced individuals– managing partner John Barker† heads a departmentwhich features Tim Hollingsworth† and Diana Robertson†.A number of new developer clients underline the solidreputation of this practice, praised for ‘understandingbusiness and sector issues’.

HHiibbbbeerrttss LLLLPP acts for a number of significant clientsincluding Chamberlain Developments, Windward Estates,Clive Christian, Vernon Cooper Properties, Brit-EuropeanTransport and DJM Logistics. The firm also has a sizeableplot sales team, and in Martyn Measures and Peter Wildeboasts experienced individuals.

Bolton’s KKiippppaaxx BBeeaauummoonntt LLeewwiiss is another firm witha stellar record in commercial property, acting for a rangeof businesses, developers, financiers and investors.Debbie Roberts† heads the practice.

NNeeiill MMyyeerrssoonn SSoolliicciittoorrss has a small-but-qualitypractice led by Richard Lloyd. Its impressive clientfollowing includes a national retail chain, for which thefirm recently advised on a store-opening programme.

Cheshire firm SSllaatteerr HHeeeelliiss CCoolllliieerr LLiittttlleerr offerspartners Mike Fox† and Kate Bouchier†; both enjoyimpressive client following of investors, developers,landlords and tenants, and major banks, and are active inthe private and public sectors.

SStteepphheennssoonnss boasts senior talent in David Baybut forgeneral commercial property matters (including high-value development projects), and Chris Stephenson forinstitutional lending (re-mortgage work). The firm workedon a £150m public private sector capital contractinvolving European procurement issues.

Chester’s WWaallkkeerr SSmmiitthh WWaayy proffers a series ofexperienced partners including Huw Davies and GrayPrestt. The firm is known for its strong client following inCheshire and North Wales.

Other firms in the region with a fine reputation forcommercial property work include Stockport-basedGGoorrvviinnss, where Lorraine Lockie† heads a departmentknown for its prestigious commercial and retail clientsand residential development projects; and JJoobblliinngg &&KKnnaappee in Lancaster where Peter Bujakowski† leads apractice with a strong acquisition and developmentrecord.

Construction

Still favoured by an impressive number of contractorssuch as Carillion Construction, Balfour Beatty and BovisLend Lease, ‘market leader’ PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPPcontinues to diversify its business and is now significantlyless reliant on its traditional contentious-orientatedpractice. It is actively engaged in PPP/PFI projects, notablyin the healthcare sector. Michael Hopkins heads thepractice.

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd is ‘proactive’ in closing deals,say clients, who highlight its record in the PPP/PFI arena.Clients praise the firm’s ‘loyalty’ and ‘considered andpragmatic advice’. It remains actively engaged indevelopment and retail projects including representingPeel Media on the Media City development in Salford.Nancy McGuire† is a ‘committed and commerciallysavvy adviser’, while Jonathan Tattersall† provides a‘strong lead’ on contentious issues.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s North West constructionexpertise is largely centred in Liverpool, where Jim Pinsenthas an outstanding reputation. He remains a key figure inconnection with the development of Liverpool FC’s newstadium and the redevelopment of Stratford Station inLondon. Clients highlight the firm’s ‘excellent service’,‘timeliness’ and ‘customer focus’. Contentious specialist


Commercial property – Elsewhere in the North West

BRABNERS CHAFFE STREET LLP PrestonHILL DICKINSON LLP ChesterJMW SOLICITORS Manchester

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterDWF LLP PrestonForbes BlackburnHibberts LLP NantwichKippax Beaumont Lewis BoltonNeil Myerson Solicitors AltrinchamSlater Heelis Collier Littler SaleStephensons Wigan, St Helens, Leigh, BoltonWalker Smith Way Chester

Barnetts SouthportGorvins StockportJobling & Knape LancasterMace & Jones KnutsfordPercy Hughes & Roberts BirkenheadWhiteheads Solicitors Limited Chorley


NORTH WEST

Daniel Jude is regarded as ‘down to earth’ and ‘easy todeal with’.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP enjoys a fine reputation forconstruction in the education sector (especially FEcampus redevelopment) and waste PFI projects. This‘good outfit’ has demonstrated acumen for sports stadia,having been appointed to advise on the relocation ofboth Everton FC and Salford City Reds (rugby league) tonew grounds. Simon Chamberlain† stands out.

A reinvigorated HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP has reclaimed itsposition as one of the more established constructionpractices in the North West, headed by the highlyreputed David Moss. The department is frequentlyapplauded for disputes work with locally based clientssingling out Simon Whitfield for being ‘competent’,‘capable’ and ‘knowledgeable’. The group is also hailedfor its industry focus (nuclear, chemicals, heavyengineering process plants) and PFI.

BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP has a strong presence in the insurancemarket, although it has been building a notable non-insurance business for clients such as Balfour Beatty andL’Oréal. Andrew Marsh† heads the department.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s Liverpool constructionpractice is headed by Ian Hardman† with support from JacquiLloyd†. The firm represented RBS on a series of

development schemes including a £15m facility for studentaccommodation in Leeds and demonstrated its construc-tion credentials by advising Peel in connection with thedevelopment agreement for a new £25m canal, connectingthe Leeds-Liverpool canal to Albert Dock in Liverpool.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP has a distinct regional emphasis with75% of instructions being from the North West. Focusedon employers and developers, and some sub-contractors,it has a tremendous contentious reputation, with HenryStone† at the helm.

Following the merger with Moore & Co, DDaavviieessAArrnnoolldd CCooooppeerr LLLLPP has demonstrated its mettle in theconstruction arena. The highly reputed Colin Moore† andthe team, which includes Phillip Fry†, have a substantialstandalone contentious and non-contentious business.Recent additional public sector appointmentsdemonstrate its established reputation.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP has had major successes in PPP/PFI,thanks in part to the efforts of Neil Wilson. Paul Rose andhis non-contentious team have also becomedevelopment leaders, notably in the hotel sector whenadvising Trinity Hotels, on significant projects inNewcastle upon Tyne and Cardiff. David Vayro isrecommended for NHS LIFT schemes and Karen Spencerfor surety and nuclear sector work.

With two partner promotions and the return ofHoward Cornes† to the firm, HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP certainlyhas a strong contentious status. It also has a fast-developing non-contentious practice, having advised onthree huge redevelopments in Rotherham and several keydevelopments in Manchester and Liverpool, including forthe developer on the notorious Zenith Building inManchester. David Chinn† and Michael Woolley† haveexcellent reputations.

MMaaccee && JJoonneess is no longer an entirely contentious-oriented practice, thanks in part to the firm’s thrivingcommercial property business. It represents a series ofnational contractors on the contentious side and leadingdevelopers and funders on the non-contentious front. It


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363


Construction 366



Social housing 369

TMT 370

Transport 372

Construction

PINSENT MASONS LLP Manchester

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterDLA PIPER UK LLP Liverpool, Manchester EVERSHEDS LLP ManchesterHAMMONDS LLP Manchester

Beachcroft LLP ManchesterBrabners Chaffe Street LLP LiverpoolCobbetts LLP ManchesterDavies Arnold Cooper LLP ManchesterHalliwells LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP Liverpool, ManchesterMace & Jones Liverpool, Manchester Pannone LLP ManchesterTrowers & Hamlins Manchester

DWF LLP Liverpool, ManchesterWeightmans LLP Liverpool, Manchester

George Davies Solicitors LLP Manchester


NORTH WEST

is also recommended for ADR, adjudication andarbitration. Charles Tomlinson† and Ken Salmon† havefine reputations.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP’s large team remains engaged in many ofthe region’s most illustrious developments. Majorinstructions from Greater Manchester PassengerTransport Executive and Urban Splash are just twoexamples of its excellent business. Andrew Rimmer† andSean McCay† have leading reputations.

TTrroowweerrss && HHaammlliinnss is recommended for localauthority and housing association work. With greatersenior resources in the Manchester office, following thepromotion of Andrew Greaves to partner and therelocation of Katie Saunders from London, Paul Hylandand team enjoy good status.

Sustained growth and investment into DDWWFF LLLLPP’sconstruction practice has borne fruit, with instructionsfrom major names such as Peel Investments, LiverpoolAirport and British Waterways.

WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP is recommended for contentiouswork, where clients admire its case-handling skills, singlingout Paul Donnelly†.

Planning and environment

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP’s team is seamlessly aligned to the firm’sprestigious real estate business according to clients whoalso praise its expertise in civil litigation and judicialreview. Public sector clients acknowledge its‘understanding of local government’. Department headRichard Lloyd† is considered one of the leadingcompulsory purchase orders specialists in the country; heis counsel to the London Development Agency on theCPO aspects of the Olympics development. The firm alsohas a leading standalone environment practice led byElizabeth Shepherd†, which has an unrivalled record forwaste PFI schemes.

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd has earned new instructionsfrom clients such as Peel Land and Property, FirstInvestments and J Sainsbury. Grant Anderson†

represented First Investments in connection with amixed-use regeneration proposal in Bolton.

The ‘considered’, ‘personable’, ‘technically able’ and‘commercially sensible’ Liverpool-based Kate Creer atDDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP wins praise for her knowledge of theplanning environment and understanding of localgovernment. It offers clients seamless availability ofleading real estate and disputes experts. The team is nowrightly considered one of the leading practices in theregion, with the excellent Christopher Bowes now firmlyensconced in Manchester.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP continues to develop a leadingplanning practice, headed by Andrew Piatt. Itsrepresentation of Asda Stores in a contested highwayclosure inquiry is notable. The firm’s breadth of businessacross the region is hard to rival.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP has a mighty reputation forenvironment; Paul Bratt heads the practice from

Manchester. Indemnity and warranty claims form thebulk of the contentious-orientated business.

Chester-headquartered AAaarroonn && PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP isacknowledged for its ‘sound knowledge’ of planning lawand local government matters. Ex-local governmentpractitioner Ed Claxton is praised for his ‘empathy’ and‘understanding’ of the different pressures and politicallydriven procedures that local government faces. SimonCarter is also recommended.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s Jeff Gilbanks† is a well-respected practitioner and with the arrival of Jim Percivalas a partner from British Nuclear Fuels, where he hadbeen head of dispute resolution since 2001, the firm hasgained further credibility in the environmental litigationsector. He was also joined by Julie Goulbourne whoarrived from the Environment Agency.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP boasts considerable planning andenvironment expertise, but it is its Leeds team that isrecognised in the region. CPO work relating to abrownfield regeneration scheme in Widnes demonstratesits regional standing.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP has a potent environment practicethanks to the presence of respected partners DeniseDowen† and John Maxwell. The team is well known for itswaste management expertise and for its advice in relationto the redevelopment of contaminated land.

Jonathan Riley heads PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP’s practice.He has an impressive client following, demonstrated byhis role as counsel to English Partnerships on the planningagreement with Warrington Borough Council for a £1bn

scheme involving one of the largest employment parks inEurope.

The highly respected Paul Zyda† of Nantwich-basedZZyyddaa LLaaww has an excellent reputation for obtainingdevelopment and environmental consents forinfrastructure projects in the energy (nuclear and gas),waste and rail sectors. The firm represented the UKAtomic Energy Authority on phase 1 of thedecommissioning of three nuclear reactors.

SStteepphheennssoonnss’ Andrew Leakey deserves a specialmention for contentious proceedings relating tocontaminated land.

Property litigation

‘Star performers’ Peter Stone† and Alan Walker†

comprise the senior end of a tremendous propertylitigation team at CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP. Its representation ofOrange PCS in connection with a dispute over one of itsmast sites is one example of the firm’s contentiousexpertise and technical acumen.

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd has a peerless client base, ameasure of the mighty practice headed by CharlesJagger†. Having secured Admiral Taverns as a new client in2006, the firm has acted in a multitude of cases. LloydsPharmacy is also a key client, with over 1,600 pharmaciesacross the UK.

Robert Moss† heads BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP’s department,which includes key clients Asda and Nationwide Building


Planning and environment


ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterDLA PIPER UK LLP Liverpool, ManchesterHALLIWELLS LLP ManchesterHAMMONDS LLP Manchester

Aaron & Partners LLP ChesterBrabners Chaffe Street LLP Liverpool, PrestonCobbetts LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP LiverpoolPinsent Masons LLP Manchester, LiverpoolZyda Law Nantwich


Bowcock Cuerden LLP ChesterDavies Arnold Cooper LLP ManchesterMcCool Patterson Hemsi & Co Manchester

Pannone LLP ManchesterStephensons Leigh

NORTH WEST

Society. The firm has broad contentious expertise withpartners such as Jan Levinson† offering an emphasis onproperty claims.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP boasts one of the mostexperienced property litigation specialists in the region inSteven Jennings. Despite the departure of Kevin Lee toHHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP, the firm maintains a widely respectedpractice to match its illustrious property department.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP’s James Batham† has an outstandingreputation regionally and nationally. Instructions from theLondon Development Agency, British Waterways Board,Taylor Wimpey and numerous education-sector clients,demonstrate the breadth and high profile of this practice.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP boosted its offering in 2008, whenKevin Lee joined from DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP. He links up withthe experienced Rob Nicholson. High-value dilapidationsclaims and contentious elements involved in siteacquisitions and the recovery of rent, represent much ofthe firm’s expertise.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s Ralph Bullivant† and CraigWalker† are increasingly involved in CPO cases and havesuccessfully negotiated multi-million poundcompensation claims. Clients include several nationalretailers.

With three experienced partners in Richard Price†,Kate Hamilton Ryan† and Stuart Irons†, PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP has aformidable offering. Its representation of the HighwaysAgency in connection with the recovery of possession ofland, the subject of CPOs, for the construction of the M6toll road, illustrates the pivotal roles that the firm oftentakes.

Other firms with strong property litigation practicesinclude, BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP which recently

recruited Lawrence McDonald in Liverpool; FFoorrbbeess, whereRobin Stephens† has a loyal client following of local andhousing authorities, and property developers; MMaaccee &&JJoonneess where Charles Tomlinson† has a fine reputation;and SStteepphheennssoonnss for litigation in the social housingsector.

Social housing

TTrroowweerrss && HHaammlliinnss has resources and experience levelsfar in advance of its rivals. Mike Gaskell heads thedepartment following Graham Turner’s retirement, butfour other partners remain. The firm continues to draw ina multitude of new clients including One Vision Housing,Outlook Homes, Southway Housing Trust, Vicinity Group,and South Lakes Housing. In 2007, the firm continued toadvise Manchester Methodist Housing Association on itsongoing redevelopment of the 1000 dwelling ParkhillEstate in Sheffield.

With a loyal following of RSL clients, BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffeeSSttrreeeett LLLLPP is recognised for its Social Homebuy andgovernment-sponsored home-ownership expertise. JaneLake† and Angela Clearkin† are two widely respectedpractitioners.

Richard St John Williams† and Sheila Whittoncomprise the senior end of CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP’s Manchesterpractice. The firm has an impressive list of housingassociation and local authority clients. In 2007, it advisedSalford City Council on the reorganisation of its housingstrategy.

HHoowwaarrtthh GGooooddmmaann’s primary focus is housingassociation law and it remains one of the respected

names in the sector, advising over 100 housingassociations nationwide. Steven Baddiel† heads thedepartment.

Other firm’s with social housing experience include,AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd, although much of its expertise is inLeeds; BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP, where the property practice alsogains instructions from housing associations; BBeerrrryymmaannssLLaaccee MMaawweerr, where Sarah Mansfield† specialises in socialhousing law and has attracted an impressive client baseincluding Halton Housing Trust and Golden GatesHousing; BBrreemmnneerrss SSoolliicciittoorrss, which has a strongemphasis on social housing work and an impressivefollowing of housing associations and RSLs; DDWWFF LLLLPP’sproperty practice which services numerous RSLs; FFoorrbbeess,which is commended for its housing litigation expertise;


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363


Construction 366



Social housing 369

TMT 370

Transport 372

Property litigation

COBBETTS LLP Manchester

Addleshaw Goddard ManchesterBeachcroft LLP ManchesterDLA Piper UK LLP ManchesterEversheds LLP ManchesterHalliwells LLP Manchester, Liverpool Hill Dickinson LLP LiverpoolPannone LLP Manchester

Brabners Chaffe Street LLP LiverpoolDWF LLP ManchesterForbes BlackburnMace & Jones ManchesterStephensons St Helens


NORTH WEST

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP, where senior associate Michelle Stevensonrepresents a series of housing associations and localauthorities; and Chorley-based WWhhiitteehheeaaddss SSoolliicciittoorrssLLiimmiitteedd, which specialises in housing law and has anationwide following of housing association clients.

TMT (technology,media and telecoms)

Intellectual property and information technologyAAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd’s clients appreciate the team’s abilityto offer ‘consistently high-quality advice’ and commentthat James Whittaker† is a ‘sensible operator’. PaulBentham† is a prominent name. On IT it is strong in thefinancial services and public sectors and continues to actfor NHS Business Services Authority. The contentious IPgroup advised Hot Stuff Foods in trade markinfringement proceedings against Domino’s Pizza.

DDLLAA PPiippeerr UUKK LLLLPP’s Graeme Orchison has ‘built a verygood reputation in the North West’ for IP; Lee Brierleyhas a ‘very strong IT team’; and clients note that PeterBrook ‘helps to solve problems’. One highlight wassuccessfully representing Argos before the Court ofAppeal in patent infringement proceedings. The teamremains a leader in public sector and financial services-related IT.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP has a stellar reputation for IP/ITmatters. On the non-contentious side clients appreciateCraig Chaplin’s ‘succinct advice’; the ‘very competent’Peter Budd; ‘safe pair of hands’ John Burns; and the ‘veryexperienced and solid’ Jonathan Moakes. The team hasbeen advising Cable & Wireless on various matters andwas appointed sole legal adviser to 20 – 20 Group.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP had a strong year and is increasinglyadvising in the life sciences field. It has also been involvedin some major IT procurements. The team, under theleadership of Susan Hall†, prepared the proposal for auniversity to float its life sciences IP incubator companyon AIM.

EEvveerrsshheeddss LLLLPP covers the full gamut of IP work fromserious branding portfolios to complex biopharma deals.Janet Knowles† is a ‘very experienced IP lawyer’ andAntony Gold† is ‘intellectually astute’. On the IT side itnoticed an increase in private sector work for clients inthe financial and leisure industries and advised FlybeGroup on the IT aspects of the acquisition of BAConnect. Paula Barrett† is the Leeds-based IT partner.

HHaammmmoonnddss LLLLPP’s IP team is headed by the ‘verycapable’ Patricia Jones. The firm advised MAN Diesel onthe protection, registration and enforcement of IP rights.Clients describe Tom Bridgford as ‘very practical’. Theteam continues to advise Jurys Doyle Group on keyoutsourcing of its worldwide ICT hotel reservationsystem.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP’s practice is led by Samantha Livesey†

(non-contentious) and Bill Lister† (contentious). It advisedHasgrove on all the IP issues connected with a number of

acquisitions. The team acted for South YorkshirePassanger Transport Executive in the procurement of apublic transport smartcard ticketing system.

Clients say that BBeeaacchhccrroofftt LLLLPP’s team is ‘excellent’and appreciate Pauline Cowie†’s ‘clear advice’. It isadvising on the technology aspects of the sale of leadinggames developer and publisher TT Games and is advisingTopps Tiles on its shirt sponsorship with Leicester City FC.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP advised several leadingGuinness Premiership rugby union clubs on image rightsarrangements and advised Enterprise on its overhaul oftelecommunications systems. Clients recommend NikWhite†.

DDWWFF LLLLPP was appointed to the panel of Vertex, anoutsourcing business, and advised NES on the closure ofthird party websites passing off as NES or otherwise usingthe NES name/material without consent. Clientsappreciate Paul Attwood†’s ‘quick turnaround’.

GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieess SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP acted for TraceyDawson in relation to her ‘Les Dawson’s SecretNotebooks’ book deal. Mark Lewis heads thedepartment.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP’s practice was strengthened by thearrival of Bruce Jones, who is a European and UK patentattorney. Clients note that Philip Woods† has a ‘goodreputation for IP work’. The team was appointed tomanage The Law Society’s trade mark portfolio.

KKuuiittss LLLLPP’s Ian Morris† and Colin Hoffman† respondin a ‘timely and cost-effective manner’. The departmentis developing expertise in the biomedical area.

PPiinnsseenntt MMaassoonnss LLLLPP’s practice is led by Rosemary Jay,who has considerable expertise in data-protection issues.Key clients include Astra Zeneca UK.

TTaayylloorrss’ Tony Catterall is a key name. The firm hasspecialist expertise in IP, with a focus on industries suchas home furnishings and cosmetics.

Media and entertainment

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd represents national mediacompanies such as Guardian and FTSE 350 companies. Itwas appointed to the commercial panel for Barclays Bank.The firm advised Urban Circus on the productionagreement with Love Productions and Sky for series twoof Cirque de Celebrité. James Whittaker† is the contactpartner.

BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s Liverpool office handlesdefamation cases and actions involving privacy/breachesof confidence. The Manchester office last year advisedrights holders and sponsors on over £100m-worth ofsponsorship agreements and advised adidas on its tier 1sponsorship agreement with LOCOG. Mark Manley†,Jason Smith† and Maurice Watkins† are recommended.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP negotiated a media rights deal withHello! Magazine for a well-known sports star and hiscelebrity partner and provides ongoing advice to Asda inall aspects of media. John Burns and Nikki Ferguson arethe key partners.


Social housing

TROWERS & HAMLINS Manchester

BRABNERS CHAFFE STREET LLP Liverpool

COBBETTS LLP Manchester

HOWARTH GOODMAN Manchester, Preston

Addleshaw Goddard ManchesterBeachcroft LLP ManchesterBerrymans Lace Mawer LiverpoolBremners Solicitors LiverpoolDWF LLP Liverpool, Manchester, PrestonForbes BlackburnHalliwells LLP ManchesterPannone LLP ManchesterWhiteheads Solicitors Limited Chorley


NORTH WEST

LLeeaa && CCoommppaannyy has a ‘first-rate reputation formusic’ with Stephen Lea a leading name for media andentertainment advice. Clients include recording artists,songwriters and record companies.

CCoobbbbeettttss LLLLPP advised Manchester Cathedral on itshigh-profile disagreement with Sony over the content ofa video game. The three-partner team of Susan Hall†,Peter Stone† and Robert Roper† advises on issues such ascopyright, contempt and libel.

PPaannnnoonnee LLLLPP advised an independent productioncompany on a co-production agreement, with the BBCand a US production company. This agreement related tothe production of a television drama. Bill Lister† is a well-known name.

Sport

Clients report that BBrraabbnneerrss CChhaaffffee SSttrreeeett LLLLPP’s team, whichadvises on a broad range of issues, on a ‘national basis issecond to none’. Maurice Watkins†, Matthew Bennett† andEdward Canty† are the ‘first port of call in the footballworld’; Jason Smith† ‘bends over backwards’ and clients‘place a great deal of confidence’ in Jeff Lewis†. It advisedThe Football Association on the appointment of FabioCapello as England national team manager.

At boutique IIPPSS LLaaww, Chris Farnell is ‘exemplary’ andPaul Fletcher is ‘very diligent’. The team advised FabioCapello on his appointment as England manager. It is alsoadvising a leading Ryder Cup golfer on varioussponsorship deals, tournament participation agreementsand a golf course design agreement.


Regions

East Anglia 263

East Midlands 295

North 317


Scotland 533

South East 373

South West 417

Wales 511

West Midlands 449


Other sections

Foreign firms 599

London 27


The Bar 611


NORTH WEST 339

Regional review 340




Finance 350

Human resources 352

Insurance 355

Private client 359


Public sector 362

Real estate 363

TMT 370

IP/IT 370

Media and entertainment 370

Sport 371

Transport 372

Intellectual property and information technology

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterDLA PIPER UK LLP Manchester, LiverpoolHALLIWELLS LLP Manchester

Cobbetts LLP ManchesterEversheds LLP ManchesterHammonds LLP ManchesterPannone LLP Manchester

Beachcroft LLP ManchesterBrabners Chaffe Street LLP Liverpool, ManchesterDWF LLP LiverpoolGeorge Davies Solicitors LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP Liverpool, ManchesterKuits LLP ManchesterPinsent Masons LLP ManchesterTaylors Manchester

Berg Legal ManchesterGorvins StockportJMW Solicitors ManchesterLees Lloyd Whitley LiverpoolLawson Coppock & Hart Manchester

Neil Myerson Solicitors Manchesternexus Solicitors ManchesterRowe Cohen ManchesterRalli Solicitors ManchesterWeightmans LLP Liverpool

Media and entertainment

ADDLESHAW GODDARD ManchesterBRABNERS CHAFFE STREET LLP Liverpool, ManchesterHALLIWELLS LLP ManchesterLEA & COMPANY Stockport

Cobbetts LLP ManchesterPannone LLP Manchester

Hill Dickinson LLP ManchesterIPS Law Manchesternexus Solicitors Manchester


NORTH WEST

AAddddlleesshhaaww GGooddddaarrdd is enhancing its capabilities inthe football sector and acted for The Football League inrelation to its £264m media rights deals, with Sky and theBBC, for three years from the 2009/10 season. Key clientsinclude Rugby Football League, BA and Manchester CityFC. James Whittaker† has ‘genuine sports law knowledgeand expertise’.

GGeeoorrggee DDaavviieess SSoolliicciittoorrss LLLLPP continues to act for theProfessional Footballers’ Association and has done so forover 45 years. It has strength in the boxing sector and wasretained by Joe Calzaghe to assist in negotiations forfuture fights. Clients say that the team is ‘extremely

skilled in sports law’ and note that Gareth Williams isdoing good work.

HHaalllliiwweellllss LLLLPP has a varied practice with Julian Diaz-Rainey a leading individual. He successfully concluded avery delicate issue involving the Lawn Tennis Associationand acted for a high-profile international player inrelation to disputed unpaid signing-on fees.

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP has increasingly been advising agentsand players and some high-profile recent examples includeadvising Gabriel Heinze on his contractual position withManchester United and subsequent transfer. Richard Green†

has his clients’ confidence.

DDWWFF LLLLPP advised Jason Plato on his sponsorshipcontracts with Tesco and Tracker under which his imagewas used in the promotion and endorsement of variousproducts and services. Laurence Pritchard† is the contactpartner.

DDaavviieess AArrnnoolldd CCooooppeerr LLLLPP has a growing specialistsports injury practice. Stephen Gorman† is the contactpartner.

KKuuiittss LLLLPP’s clients include Manchester City FC andLancashire County Cricket Club, with department headRobert Levy† advising on such issues as defamation andsporting merchandise.

nneexxuuss SSoolliicciittoorrss represented an ex-professionalfootballer in a medical negligence action obtaining aseven-figure award. The ‘fantastic’ Tony Brook is the mainpartner for sports advice.

Transport

HHiillll DDiicckkiinnssoonn LLLLPP has a strong shipping practice as isdemonstrated by its role as sole legal adviser to LiverpoolCity Council for the City of Liverpool Cruise Terminal.Clients appreciate John Hulmes†’ ‘excellent knowledge ofthe shipping industry’ and note that Peter Jackson†

‘makes a good impression’.WWeeiigghhttmmaannss LLLLPP has a varied practice dealing with

issues such as rail, aviation and marine and has adedicated unit which handles fraud work. The teamadvised on a multimillion-dollar sale of two jack-upaccommodation rigs operating in the Middle East. Clientsappreciate Chris Ball†’s ‘exceptional technical andstrategy skills’ and feel ‘very comfortable’ working withMike Burns and Terry Donaghy.

AAaarroonn && PPaarrttnneerrss LLLLPP’s Tim Culpin is a Road HaulageAssociation panel solicitor – ‘his knowledge of transportlaw is first class and he knows how to engage withTraffic Commissioners’. The team has performed well inmatters relating to clandestine entrants and casesbrought by HMRC. It has developed a speciality insecuring the early release of impounded vehicles seizedfollowing the detection of contraband.


Sport

BRABNERS CHAFFE STREET LLP Liverpool, ManchesterIPS LAW Manchester


George Davies Solicitors LLP ManchesterHalliwells LLP ManchesterHill Dickinson LLP Manchester

DWF LLP ManchesterDavies Arnold Cooper LLP Manchester

Kuits LLP Manchesternexus Solicitors Manchester

Transport

HILL DICKINSON LLP LiverpoolWEIGHTMANS LLP Liverpool

Aaron & Partners LLP Chester

Jobling & Knape LancasterRowe Cohen ManchesterStephensons Wigan


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