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Civitas Chambers

Social Housing

UK Bar Guide 2026 : Wales & Chester (Bar)

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Civitas Chambers

Rankings

Chambers Review

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Social Housing - Wales & Chester (Bar)

Band 1

What the Team is Known For

Cardiff-based Civitas Law represents registered social landlords, local authorities and private individuals in a range of social housing matters. Members are at the forefront of the current changes in the Welsh housing market brought about by the Renting Homes (Wales) Act. Their work includes allocation policy review and anti-social behaviour mandates. The set also regularly acts on possession claims. An interviewee states: "The set understands the business and operational context of our work and gives practice advice that is understood by the team." Another comments that the barristers have "a vast knowledge of the area and go above and beyond in supporting their instructing solicitors."

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Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Danielle Smith, practice manager, is friendly and motivated.

    Social Housing respondentUK Bar

  • We have a strong relationship with the clerks and they will always try to find available counsel for us even if they are stretched.

    Social Housing respondentUK Bar

  • The clerks are responsive and usually reply within two days.

    Social Housing respondentUK Bar

Notable Practitioners

Provided by Chambers

  • Lucy King
    Lucy King

    Lucy King

    Lucy King is instructed by the Welsh Government and various registered social landlords to advise on and draft Renting Homes (Wales) contracts. She regularly handles tenancy disputes, possession claims and antisocial behaviour mandates.

    • Lucy is a fantastic barrister and works tirelessly to assist our clients. Her advice and understanding of the Welsh housing legislation is exceptional.

      Social Housing respondentUK Bar

    • Her advocacy skills are strong, more often than not resulting in a favourable outcome for our clients.

      Social Housing respondentUK Bar
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  • Owain Rhys James
    Owain Rhys James

    Owain Rhys James

    Owain Rhys James is a leading expert on the Renting Homes (Wales) Act, advising the Welsh Government in relation to transitional provisions, as well as representing registered social landlords in reviewing and drafting occupational contracts. His work also spans possession hearings.

    • Owain is very knowledgeable, able to meet tight deadlines and breakdown complex issues and offer practical guidance along with legal advice.

      Social Housing respondentUK Bar

    • Owain is a quick thinking, pragmatic advocate. His technical knowledge is exceptional, and his commercial awareness is invaluable.

      Social Housing respondentUK Bar

    • Owain's attention to detail is very impressive. He has an innate understanding of the complexities of Welsh housing legislation, which has been very beneficial to our clients.

      Social Housing respondentUK Bar

    • He is excellent on his feet, a clever advocate and clear in written advice.

      Social Housing respondentUK Bar
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  • Cathrine Grubb
    Cathrine Grubb

    Cathrine Grubb

    Cathrine Grubb has experience acting for charities and housing associations in cases related to social housing. She advises on matters related to service agreements as well as fire safety liability.

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  • Dominic Evans
    Dominic Evans

    Dominic Evans

    Dominic Evans represents both social landlords and tenants in a wide range of matters, including possession, antisocial behaviour injunctions and committal proceedings, as well as disrepair.

    • Dominic always goes the extra mile and is most prompt to return advice and is most supportive.

      Social Housing respondentUK Bar

    • Dominic is a fantastic advocate who goes above and beyond to provide excellent service.

      Social Housing respondentUK Bar

    • Dominic Evans prepares incredibly well, takes time to understand the background and context of the matter and is incredibly popular with clients.

      Social Housing respondentUK Bar
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Ranked Barristers at Civitas Chambers (4)

Wales & Chester (Bar)

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