David Richards

Partner

I am a Partner in the Private Client Litigation Department of Brethertons. I have moved from a leading Northamptonshire firm to take a senior position in the rapidly expanding and dynamic litigation team at Brethertons.

I qualified as a solicitor in 2002, starting with a varied caseload of civil and commercial disputes. I have now developed a specialism in contentious probate and property litigation, reflected by my membership of the Property Litigation Association.

In respect of contentious probate matters, I regularly act for executors or trustees and beneficiaries in Wills and trust disputes. The variety of claims include those against estates, challenges to Will validity and issues arising from the administration of trusts.

In respect of property matters I primarily concentrate in commercial property disputes, dealing with matters such as dilapidations, disputed renewal of Leases under the Landlord & Tenant Act 1954, forfeiture, breaches of covenant and rent arrears.

I have experience with residential landlord and tenant disputes, including possession claims, rent arrears, recovery of deposits, wrongful eviction and breaches of covenant.

I have successfully taken several cases to the Court of Appeal. One case involved a disputed Lease renewal where we were able to illustrate to the Appeal Court that the original Judge had not applied the law correctly when calculating the rent which significantly increased the amount our client received from the tenant.

I have represented clients in boundary disputes. On one occasion successfully taking a dispute to the Appeal Courts, where we introduced aerial photographic evidence to throw doubt on the conclusion reached by the original Judge. The decision meant the case was sent back for a new trial. In light of the decision the client subsequently achieved a favourable settlement with the other side.

I recognise the importance of acting quickly with disputes and the fact that – quite literally – time is money for the client.

Experience and Accreditations

Qualified as a Solicitor in 2002
Graduated and obtained Legal Practice Course from Anglia Ruskin University
Experienced in all aspects of Contentious Probate and Property Litigation and specialising particularly Commercial Property disputes
Member of the Property Litigation Association

Get to Know David

Outside work I enjoy various sports, although more often watching than participating these days. I keep fit by running and occasionally swimming. I also read when I have time.