farming & rural affairs

specialist units

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farming & rural affairs

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specialists in your field

Knights was founded in 1759 to serve the major landowners in the North Midlands. We now work together with private and corporate clients in many types of business across the UK. Our Farming and Rural Affairs Unit is successful and well respected. We understand the changing environment in which farmers and landowners operate. From the SFPS (Single Farm Payment Scheme) to issues raised by Foot and Mouth, we offer pragmatic support.

about the team

Led by Robert Fearnley, our team of six solicitors and support staff have a deep working knowledge not only of the law but of the changing needs of the agricultural community. They also have excellent contacts within defra and other national and local government departments.

The team's philosophy is to build long term relationships, knowing that prevention is better than cure. They take a pragmatic approach to each client's problems. We are respected as we offer a high quality legal service with a common sense approach.

Colleagues in other departments of Knights provide advice on tax planning, buying and selling of rural properties and business disputes. The industry is subject to a growing number of regulations, and we keep up with the changes.

how we can help

Every business faces a unique set of challenges and concerns. Some are simple to sort out, others are more complex. Our range of services for farmers and landowners covers every eventuality, so whatever the situation, you have access to sound, up-to-date advice:

• Buying, selling and letting farms and agricultural land
• Commercial enterprise and diversification
• Rights of way, boundaries and general property issues
• Quotas
• Farming partnerships
• Compulsory purchase
• Agricultural litigation (civil and criminal) and Dispute Resolution
• Employment
• Tax investigations, planning and inheritance tax
• Tenancies and licences, including Agricultural Holdings Act Tenancies, farm business tenancies and grazing tenancies or licences
• Environmental issues
• Retirement, succession and asset preservation
• Telecommunications leases and agreements
• Fishing and other sporting rights
• Mineral rights
• Investigation by regulatory bodies such as Trading Standards and Environment Agency

in good company

Many of our clients originally came to us through word of mouth recommendation. They've stayed with us because we deliver. We offer quality with common sense.

get in touch

To find out more about what we can do for you please contact:

Robert Fearnley - Associate

t 01782 619225
e robert.fearnley@knightsllp.co.uk