Business Details
14 Years
experience
Trusted Legal Services in Burgess Hill
Established in 2012, Bennett Oakley Solicitors has built a reputation for delivering clear, practical legal advice tailored to individual and business needs. As the first employee-owned law firm in Sussex, we prioritise shared success and long-term stability, ensuring our clients receive exceptional service from a team deeply invested in their outcomes. Our solicitors combine high-street approachability with corporate professionalism, offering expertise in residential property, private client matters, family law, employment law, and commercial disputes.Recognised through industry awards, we maintain a client-centric ethos, treating every case with the attention and dedication it deserves. Our employee ownership model fosters innovation and resilience, directly benefiting clients through higher service standards and a collaborative team culture.
Services
Residential Property
Private Client
Family Law
Employment Law
Commercial Disputes
Agricultural Property
Company Law
Insolvency
Probate Services
Leasehold Advice
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We are Sussex's first employee-owned law firm, ensuring shared commitment to client success.
- Award-winning team with expertise in residential property, family law, and commercial disputes.
- Tailored legal solutions delivered with a personal touch and professional precision.
- Employee ownership model drives innovation, resilience, and exceptional client service.
- Proven track record in delivering efficient, cost-effective legal outcomes.
Associations and certifications
- Solicitors Regulation Authority
What people say
Quick and polite service
Responsive solicitor
Reasonable rates
Very helpful
Great communication
Services
Residential Property
We provide expert guidance on residential property transactions, including purchases, sales, and leasehold matters. Our team ensures smooth processes with clear communication and legal precision. Clients benefit from tailored advice suited to their specific property needs.
Family Law
Our family law specialists handle divorces, child custody arrangements, and financial settlements with sensitivity and expertise. We prioritise amicable resolutions while protecting clients' interests throughout complex legal proceedings.
Commercial Disputes
We resolve commercial conflicts through strategic legal representation, covering contract disputes, debt recovery, and partnership disagreements. Our approach balances assertiveness with cost-effectiveness to protect business interests.
Private Client
Specialising in wills, probate, and inheritance tax planning, we offer comprehensive private client services. Our solicitors provide clear guidance to manage and protect personal assets across generations.
Employment Law
We advise businesses and employees on employment contracts, disciplinary procedures, and workplace disputes. Our practical solutions ensure compliance with evolving employment legislation while maintaining professional relationships.
People
Sarah Rowland
CEO and Conveyancing Solicitor
With over 15 years' experience in property law, Sarah leads our conveyancing team. She specialises in residential transactions and leasehold enfranchisement, ensuring clients receive expert, timely advice throughout the process.
James Leighton
Managing Director and Head of Commercial & Corporate Law
James heads our commercial legal team, advising businesses on contracts, mergers, and dispute resolution. His corporate expertise spans 20 years, focusing on delivering strategic, growth-oriented legal solutions for business clients.
Karen White
Head of Private Client
Karen oversees our private client services, including wills, probate, and tax planning. With specialist accreditation in later-life planning, she provides compassionate yet thorough legal support for families and individuals.
James Sandbach
Consultant Solicitor
James offers strategic legal counsel on complex property matters. His 30-year career includes senior roles in regional law firms, bringing extensive experience in commercial and residential property transactions.
Nigel Cook
Consultant Solicitor
Nigel provides specialist employment law advice to businesses and employees. His expertise covers workplace disputes, contract negotiations, and HR policy development, ensuring practical compliance with employment regulations.
Questions
What areas of law does Bennett Oakley specialise in?
We specialise in residential property, family law, employment law, commercial disputes, private client services, and agricultural property matters.
What makes Bennett Oakley different from other law firms?
As Sussex's first employee-owned law firm, our structure ensures shared commitment to client success through collective ownership and decision-making.
Do you offer legal services for businesses?
Yes, we provide commercial property advice, company law services, employment law support, and dispute resolution for businesses of all sizes.
Are your legal fees competitive?
Clients consistently report our rates as reasonable, with transparent pricing structures tailored to individual case requirements.
Do you handle probate and estate planning?
Yes, our private client team specialises in wills, probate, inheritance tax planning, and lasting powers of attorney.
