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What the team is known for Market-leading practice with specialist expertise across the full spectrum of road regulatory matters, including representing operators in public inquiries and prosecutions. Acts for commercial and passenger clients. Represents a range of high-profile transport providers, including bus operators and logistics companies. Frequently appears on behalf of operators in the magistrates' court and in Crown Court proceedings.
Strengths Clients say: "Backhouse have the complete package for the haulage industry, including property and employment - the lot. It is a one-stop shop. It's their professionalism, their knowledge and their approach. I personally rate them as the best in the market."
Other commentators highlight that "the complete regulatory team have a wealth of knowledge and experience, and they will go the extra mile for the client."
"Their co-ordination with our team has been excellent," says another client, who highlights the team's "depth of knowledge and understanding."
Notable practitioners
Andrew Woolfall is a solicitor advocate with a wealth of court experience. He acts for a range of clients, including passenger, entertainment and goods companies, as well as individuals, in criminal and compliance proceedings nationwide.
The "magnificent" James Backhouse enjoys an excellent reputation in the sector for his deep public inquiry experience and wide-ranging regulatory expertise. Clients value his "pleasant personality and sense of humour," describing him as "a pleasure to deal with - a lawyer who is always clear and concise when offering his opinion."
John Heaton is "excellent in criminal matters," according to market sources. He has a great deal of experience before the courts, Traffic Commissioners and tribunals as both a prosecutor and defender in road disputes.
Jonathon Backhouse is an expert in road regulations and legislation. Clients say his style is "pragmatic and gives you confidence," while market sources describe him as "extremely good." He frequently represents drivers and their companies in court.
Laura Hadzik is described by her clients as "very knowledgeable." She works with passenger transport operators and hauliers on public inquiry defence and general regulatory compliance matters.
Sources say that head of the regulatory road transport team Mark Davies "has a no-nonsense approach, yet is very client-friendly and will take the time to explain issues and guide clients." He also receives praise for being "a very strategic thinker who is able to work under pressure." His practice primarily focuses on contentious cases, including health and safety matters.
Scott Bell regularly assists clients at public inquiries. He is praised by market commentators for his "wealth of knowledge" in road regulatory issues.
