Our property litigation team stands out from its competitors due to its depth of knowledge and experience. Even junior members of our team have close to ten years’ experience and our partners considerably more.

Our team have long-standing relationships with estate portfolios and developers and act for businesses in relation to disputes with landlords and contractors.

The team handles a broad range of commercial real estate and landlord and tenant disputes, where possible using alternative dispute resolution mechanisms (such as mediation) and, when necessary or appropriate, through the courts and tribunals.

Our team has extensive construction dispute experience and act for both developers and contractors. You can rely on our team to guide you through any enforcement of awards, adjudication and/or arbitration process.

  • Assignment and sub-letting
  • Boundary disputes
  • Construction disputes
  • Dilapidations
  • Enforcement of covenants
  • Forfeiture proceedings
  • Landlord and Tenant
  • Lease renewals
  • Party wall disputes
  • Possession proceedings
  • Rent arrears/recovery
  • Right of light disputes
  • Service charge disputes

  • Acting for an estate management company in a substantial and complex claim in the Chancery Division regarding an estate management contract. Obtaining a favourable ruling that the contract was a qualifying long-term agreement. Acting in connected proceedings in the Lands Tribunal.
  • Representing a purchaser in proceedings in the Chancery Division and successfully establishing that an equitable assignment of a lender’s rights gave power to sell the borrower’s interest.
  • Acting on complex claim concerning estoppel and limitation in respect of longstanding occupation of a high value residential property.
  • Acting for claimants in a rights of light case concerning a major Central London development and recovering substantial damages.
  • Acting for a developer against various purchasers in Chancery Division proceedings and obtaining specific performance resulting in recoveries of over £4m.

Key contacts

Qaiser Khanzada

EmailDownload V.card

Stay in touch

Subscribe to our newsletter

Stay in touch
Sending

News/Insight

  • CSR Project: Artists in residence
    Artists in residence: Firstly, what is CSR? Corporate social responsibility (CSR) refers to RIAA Barker Gillette’s community initiatives which aim to help and assist members of society on a pro bono basis (to you and me that means for free).

    Read more

  • Leases and side letters
    Time for a rethink?

    Read more

  • Small suppliers to get info on big companies’ payment performance
    New regulations designed to help small businesses get paid on time came into force in April, with a requirement for larger companies to publish information about how long they take to pay suppliers.

    Read more

  • Calculating holiday pay – change on the horizon?
    In the UK, many employers calculate holiday pay based on basic salary alone – even if an employee usually receives commission. However, a landmark court case seems set to change this.

    Read more

  • House sellers are facing testing questions
    Springtime is traditionally the busiest time for the property market, but with a knotty problem affecting more homes than ever, whether you’re buying or selling, it’s worth doing some horticultural homework before you start.

    Read more

What clients say...

Commercial: Ben Brownscombe provided me with excellent advice. He was easy to communicate with, he was able to explain the implication of each clause and very reliable.

 May 2017

Employment Law : "Karen provided invaluable guidance and support throughout the process and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her services in this field."

 May 2017

Private Client: I am very satisfied with [RBG's] services as I was in London for a very short visit but managed to arrange an appointment to see one of your partners who was able to help explain and complete the matter in question.

Eman Kassem: April 2017

The advice and service that was given to us was invaluable to our business and [we] would use and recommend Karen Cole for her professional, clear and prompt service.

Sally Lusher, GO-Coach Hire Ltd: January 2017

Lawnet ISO 9001 Quality Standard Logo
Quality Conveyancing Scheme Logo
Lawnet Logo
Eurojuis International Logo

Corporate: Extremely knowledgeable and able to convey this knowledge clearly and concisely. Would definitely recommend.

Stephan Buxton: February 2017

Corporate: Excellent experience of working with Veronica and the team. Always friendly and approachable.

Stephan Buxton: February 2017

Corporate: RIAA Barker Gillette made the company both investable to Business Angels and overall commercially viable.

Niall Haughian, CFA: Chief Operating Officer: February 2017

Corporate: RIAA Barker Gillette has taken my start-up company that lacked structure and provided us with sound legal and business advice.

Niall Haughian, CFA: Chief Operating Officer: February 2017

Corporate: Solaris Photonics is truly grateful for the tremendous professional effort undertaken by the RIAA Barker Gillette team.

Niall Haughian, CFA: Chief Operating Officer: February 2017

Company Commercial: [Veronica] used her expertise to suggest crucial additions that gave additional benefits to my business interests, that I had not even considered.

S. Arnold: February 2017

Company Commercial: Excellent service and I wouldn't hesitate to use Veronica again and recommend her.

S. Arnold: February 2017

Company Commercial: The contracts my business required were complex. Veronica was efficient, friendly and took the time to ensure everything we needed was covered.

S. Arnold: February 2017

Residential Property: Simon is always helpful, clear and meticulous. I always feel that he has our best interests at heart.

M. Orteu: January 2017

Dispute Resolution: Alex “really protects his clients to the best of his ability. I would not hesitate to recommend him. Excellent manner with clients and highly gifted.”

Morris Nourani, Hastings International: December 2016

Dispute Resolution: Alex Deal is a “very bright, hardworking individual inside and outside working hours.”

Morris Nourani, Hastings International: December 2016

Dispute Resolution: Alex Deal “attains a very sharp grasp of extremely complicated issues including cross border commercial matters.”

Morris Nourani, Hastings International: December 2016

Dispute Resolution: Alex Deal “is, simply, in a class of his own. Focused, dedicated and genuinely caring about his clients, he excels in getting into every tiny detail quickly.”

Morris Nourani, Hastings International: December 2016

Wills, tax and trusts: “We were always happy with the service from James McMullan.”

Josephine Sullivan: December 2016

Steven Barker gave us his personal attention no matter how small the detail.

Mr J Patel: December 2016

We are very thankful to Steven Barker for helping us out on our difficult times, and being there for us whenever he was required.

Mr J Patel: December 2016

Laura St-Gallay, Dispute Resolution: “Fees have in all cases been very reasonable and I have very much appreciated the responsiveness of the team when I have needed advice at short notice.”

Peter Scholes: October 2016

Laura St-Gallay, Dispute Resolution “The advice I received was helpful and timely, and a satisfactory settlement was reached quickly in large part due to the high quality of the advice given.”

Peter Scholes: October 2016

Alex Deal, Dispute Resolution “I would not hesitate to recommend the Firm for any matters relating to litigation/dispute resolution or employee/partnership law matters (where Alex has previous provided valuable advice).”

Peter Scholes: October 2016

Dispute Resolution: Alex Deal and Laura St-Gallay responded immediately to my request for assistance even though the amounts at stake were relatively small.

Peter Scholes: October 2016

Stuart Jacobs, Property Litigation: “It was very important for us to feel confident and be cost efficient with our legal case.”

Loretta Martinelli: October 2016

Laura St-Gallay, Property Litigation “The numerous changes were well understood and have been taken on board each time we changed our mind on our strategy.”

Loretta Martinelli: October 2016

Laura St-Gallay, Property Litigation “The matter was dealt with in a very kind and calm manner while keeping us informed of the cost implications throughout.”

Loretta Martinelli: October 2016

Stuart Jacobs, Property Litigation “The firm was very understanding and patient with our request and regular requirements for explanations and changes.”

Loretta Martinelli: October 2016

Jodi Newton: We received very good advice from the very first phone call and a fully professional approach which enabled us to deal with every aspect of a demanding and potentially damaging process.”

Alan Syrop: October 2016

Jodi Newton, Personal Injury “A wonderfully personal and supportive service.”

Alan Syrop: October 2016

Wills, trusts and tax: James went above and beyond in looking after the entire process.

Ian Cuthbertson: July 2016

Criminal Defence: Simon “I would not hesitate to recommend [RIAA Barker Gillette], I do not think I could have done any better, they have my eternal thanks and gratitude.”

Rob Meekcoms: June 2016

Criminal Defence: “Steve and his team were absolutely brilliant, they supported me through the toughest times I have ever been through.”

Rob Meekcoms: June 2016

Clinical Negligence: The service I received from Jodi Newton and RIAA Barker Gillette was second to none. Every detail examined and clearly dealt with most professionally. The outcome was brilliant.” Marianne Buckley, October 2016
Commercial Property - Simon Levi: "Very satisfied and happy with the results and professional communication of Mr Levi during the legal process. I will definitely use RBG again in the near future and will highly recommend Mr Levi to all my friends and relatives." 

 Eran Ezra, ...

“I was very happy with Jodi Newton, who, despite having a complicated case, came through with a satisfactory conclusion. I felt safe in her hands.”

 Britt Poole, September 2016

“Vinay Verma demonstrated exceptional professionalism and sensitivity from start to finish.”

Mr I C and Ms N K

“I was extremely satisfied with all aspects of the service. Veronica was extremely personable and she made me feel very comfortable when dealing with an unfamiliar situation.”

Vanessa Lorenz

“Both Alex and Veronica have been extremely professional and easy to work with.They know how to listen to your needs and are helpful in giving advice.”

Susan Keese, Director

“Alex and Veronica talk things through with you (not at you like many solicitors!) in a language you can understand and ensure that your needs are fulfilled.”

Susan Keese, Director

“Veronica Hartley is a very capable solicitor who acted for me on an important and complex case which ultimately had a satisfactory conclusion.”

Stephen Deverell, Chairman

“Veronica Hartley was extremely friendly and informative. Complex legal terms were explained in an easy to understand manner.”

Peter Low

“I was left feeling comfortable that Veronica had my best interests at heart and a lot of stress and worry was taken away as soon as we began speaking to her.”

Peter Low

“I found Veronica to be professional, conscientious and able to maintain a healthy balance between following our commercial instructions with that of focused legal advisor.”

Gary Watts

“Not only is Veronica excellent at her job she is also very genuine and a pleasure to deal with.”

Deborah Haw, Director

“After several bad experiences with other solicitors it was such a pleasure to have Veronica look after our interests in the UK.”

Deborah Haw, Director

“Whatever questions and problems we put in front of Veronica she seems to resolve with ease. I cannot recommend her more highly.”

Deborah Haw, Director

“Relaxed and personable working.”

Damian Griffiths

“I really appreciated all the hard work Jodi did on this case. I have had a lot of dealings with solicitors over the past few years and Jodi is certainly one of the best.”

Sherrie Bogle

“Jodi’s judgement and advice was always sound. I cannot recommend her highly enough.”

Sara Newman

“Jodi Newton is an incredible ally and an accomplished lawyer. The sum she won on my behalf exceeded expectations four fold.”

Sara Newman

“I would recommend Jodi for her legal expertise in personal injury and dental negligence claims as well as her accessible and supportive approach.”

Sandra K

“Jodi was approachable, gave clear and detailed advice throughout and achieved a successful settlement in a short period of time despite facing a challenging opponent.”

Sandra K

“We discovered terminal lung cancer that had not been spotted on the X-ray. Jodi was very compassionate, made home visits, and secured a compensation payment for the family.”

Rafic Kazan

“Jodi was knowledgeable, patient and sensitive, securing the costs of a very successful operation and compensation that helped my employee move forward with her life.”

Rafic Kazan

“Jodi’s handling of our traumatic case - clarity of communication, choice of barrister and medical expert - was brilliantly resourceful and reassuring from start to finish.”

Julian Forsyth

“After contacting several well-known, nationally advertised law firms who would not represent me, I approached Jodi who successfully obtained generous compensation for me.”

Geoffrey Henshaw

“Jodi was immediately sympathetic and listened carefully to the details of my accident. Determining responsibility proved difficult but Jodi persisted successfully.”

Geoffrey Henshaw

“Jodi Newton never gave up and persevered right until the very end, creating a case that the defendant had no option but to settle. It felt more like a family than a law firm.”

Cedric Bloch

“I was incredibly impressed with the high level of legal advice and client service. Jodi's vast legal experience and knowledge meant any issues I had were dealt with.”

Angela Simpson

“James was throughout very kind, calm and polite which makes him in my view the perfect divorce lawyer.”

Mrs A K

“James dealt with all my emails and phone calls extremely efficiently.”

Mrs A K

“James McMullan is a very professional lawyer and I always felt that he advised me very well and importantly very realistically. ”

Mrs A K

“James assisted me with my difficult divorce this year. He was professional and supportive at all times. I could not recommend him highly enough.”

Madeline Fleming

“Friendly and professional.”

Jonathan Pullum

“My solicitor is excellent. I have not really dealt with anyone else but calls to the office are fine.”

Jerry Morgan

“Patience, understanding, concern, compassion, expediency”

Jeffrey Lambert

Carly Aitchison Kept me informed all the time.

Ritagate Ltd

“We have the highest regard for the expertise and client commitment they demonstrate. They are responsive, conscientious and always go the ‘extra mile’.”

Stuart Leaman

“Alex's mind is skilled, brilliant and tactical in all of his dealings, especially if so required in court, his solution is pragmatic and commercial.”

Tony Muskat at AS MUSKAT

“As a client, I have always felt in safe hands and it has always been my pleasure to work with Alex.”

Tony Muskat at AS MUSKAT

“Alex provides sound, considered advice and has the ability to analyse and appraise the merits of any case, with the best interests of his client always in mind.”

Tony Muskat at AS MUSKAT

“I first used Alex's legal expertise in 1999 and was immediately impressed by his ability and have continued to rely on him for all my legal matters in the UK ever since.”

Tirapongse Pangsrivongse

“I have total confidence in the other members of the firm that Alex has introduced me to such as Veronica. I cannot recommend Alex more highly and have trust in all his advice.”

Tirapongse Pangrivongse, Chairman

“Alex Deal and his team have provided us with incisive and timely advice over a number of years. His help in employment matters has minimised our exposure.”

Robert Macdonald, Chairman

“Alex always bears commerciality in the forefront of his mind when giving direct and concise advice. We have been happy to recommend him widely.”

Robert Macdonald, Chairman

“For over 15 years, Alex is the first person I turn to with a legal problem.He is responsive, sharp and most importantly invariably right - about the sharpest legal mind.”

Kam Takhar

“Alex's rigorous legal advice has often helped our company avoid protracted legal disputes. Alex offers tremendous external support to our in-house legal and HR teams.”

Jose Miguel Echenagusia,
Vice President Legal Services

“Alex stands out for his sound business judgment, profound knowledge of the law and pragmatic approach to the resolution of disputes.”

Jose Miguel Echenagusia,
Vice President Legal Services

“Our company has used Barker Gillette for many years. Alex and his team have always acted in our best interests offering a prompt, effective and responsive service.”

Jose Miguel Echenagusia,
Vice President Legal Services

I have been a client of the firm for many years and have found them extremely supportive and kind in very difficult circumstances.

Vinayak,Chairman

“Looking at the best needs for the client and tailoring advice to that.”

prev next
About us