James Picknell
Partner
Real Estate Dispute Resolution
James represents commercial landlords and tenants in respect of a broad range of matters, such as opposed and unopposed commercial lease renewals, insolvency, assignment and subletting, forfeiture, rent arrears, and service charge disputes. James has significant experience dealing with complex dilapidations claims, break clauses and lease exit strategies.
For many years, a consistently large part of James’ caseload has included advising on private client and commercial land issues, such as access disputes, restrictive covenants and nuisance claims. James also has considerable experience advising clients on boundary disputes and adverse possession claims.
James works primarily in our Guildford office but also collaborates closely with colleagues in our other locations.
Work highlights
Dilapidations claim
Representing an international firm in its defence of a substantial dilapidations claim of high end commercial office premises in the City.
High Court proceedings
Representing a developer in High Court proceedings concerning attempts by a commercial neighbour to prevent the client and future owners from gaining access to a residential development
Restrictive covenant dispute
Acting for a group of neighbours who were parties to proceedings in the Upper Tribunal (Lands Chamber) and the High Court in respect of their objection to a developer’s claims for the modification of restrictive covenants and a declaration of the Court.
Asset management
Advising and providing strategic advice to well known high street retailers in respect of asset management issues such as 1954 Act renewals, break clauses and dilapidations disputes.
Recent videos
REAL ESTATE
Property and Planning - The Building Safety Bill and the changing high street
Recent articles
Insights
The Supreme Court has provided some much-needed clarity to the law of adverse possession under what is known as the 10-year rule for registered land.
11/03/2025
Insights
The Law Commission is currently reviewing whether business tenants should have a legal right to a renewal tenancy after their existing tenancy expires.
22/11/2024
Insights
An introduction to the 1954 Act and the rights and protection it offers both landlords and tenants of business premises.
18/10/2024
Insights
Our advice is clear – use the tenant’s keenness as the reason to agree the lease more quickly, and do not let your tenant into occupation on a handshake and promise to agree the lease next week.
24/04/2024