About

Provided by Bates Wells

We act for public bodies and regulators. But we also act for the charities, businesses, campaigning groups and individuals affected by their regimes.

We bring a high level of legal acumen, teamed with a practical understanding of how to best negotiate the issues you are facing. We know that you need strategic advice from a team that knows your world.

Many of our team worked for government departments or in-house for public bodies before joining us. So, we understand the statutory and policy framework and real-world challenges you’re dealing with.

For more information, visit https://bateswells.co.uk/services/public-and-regulatory/



Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Administrative & Public Law - UK-wide

What the Team is Known For

Bates Wells advises a diverse array of regulators on the interpretation and implementation of public law obligations. The firm is well versed in resisting potential challenges, including judicial reviews. The team is frequently instructed to advise on public sector audits and maintains considerable strengths in media and advertising regulation. In addition, it is regularly sought after by charities and non-profits in relation to their regulatory concerns.

Work Highlights

  • Bates Wells represented the Ramblers’ Association in their judicial review challenge against the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. The team is also advising on whether the challenge is an Aarhus Convention claim.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

Matthew Smith
2
Matthew Smith
2
Band 2

Matthew Smith has a strong practice which covers high-profile judicial reviews, as well as public inquiries, investigations and legislative advice.

Matthew has a breadth of ability to cover lots of types of work. He is a very bright trusted pair of hands.

Rupert Earle
3
Rupert Earle
3
Band 3

Rupert Earle is a partner in the public and regulatory team at Bates Wells. He is recognised for his longstanding experience acting for and against public authorities, as well as advising public bodies on regulatory proceedings. Earle has considerable expertise in advertising regulations.

Rupert is a very fine public lawyer with a leading practice in advertising.

Rupert did a fantastic job when we worked with him.

Helen Fry
U
Helen Fry
U
Up and Coming

Helen Fry skilled at representing clients in a wide variety of sectors including healthcare, energy and charities.

Helen is an outstanding lawyer whose expertise, strategic thinking and commitment to excellence set her apart.

Her ability to navigate complex regulatory challenges with precision, clarity, and a keen strategic focus is exceptional.

Helen is a sophisticated litigator and brings deep expertise on campaigning or strategic disputes.

She did was very impressive and could take the client's concerns and find the legal remedy for those.

Ranked Lawyers at
Bates Wells

Provided by Chambers
Filter by
Band

UK-wide

Administrative & Public Law

Matthew Smith
2
Matthew Smith
2
Band 2
Rupert Earle
3
Rupert Earle
3
Band 3
Administrative & Public Law: Traditional Claimant

Helen Fry
U
Helen Fry
U
Up and Coming

Members

Provided by Bates Wells