UK Guide 2026 : South West
Ranked Individuals
Provided by Ashfords LLP
We have extensive experience advising on the legal issues that can arise across the diverse range of business activities that make up the modern and ever-evolving food & rural sector, helping our clients to realise the full potential of their commercial operations.
We have a strong track record working with businesses across the chain including agricultural landowners, multi-generational farming businesses, tenant farmers, feedstock suppliers, food processers and producers and logistics businesses.
Clients instruct us to support on implementing longer term developments as well as their day-to-day legal issues. This can include buying or selling land or a commercial entity as well as negotiating commercial contracts in areas like logistics and product supply and distribution.
We regularly help secure funding to support diversification and growth, as well as advising on tax liabilities, subsidies or available reliefs. When needed, we help to manage disputes within the business or with third parties and can advise on restructuring or debt recovery.
With many agricultural businesses family or owner managed, we also provide tailored wealth management advice including support with succession planning and wider personal or family legal requirements.
Provided by Chambers
Ashfords acts for agricultural businesses, farmers and financial institutions on rural matters. It offers expertise in farming tenancies and agricultural mortgages. The department handles contentious agriculture work in conjunction with its specialist contentious trusts team. Ashfords has a growing reputation for acting for high net worth clients in relation to succession planning and farm management.
Provided by Chambers
Ashfords is very quick to respond and good at keeping us and the client in the loop.
The Ashfords team is quick to get started on land sales and complete within a tight timescale.
The Ashfords team has commercial nous and is friendly and personable.
Provided by Chambers
Susie Murray heads the residential and rural property team at Ashfords. She is a rural land specialist and advises on the full range of property matters, including diversification and refinance projects. She leads the firm's transactional mandates for businesses, banks and high net worth estates.
I enjoy working with Susie. She is very professional and an expert in her field.
Susie Murray is highly effective.
Head of Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Provided by Ashfords LLP
Darren Blackburn
View profile of Darren Blackburn
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