Freeths appoints new head of agriculture

20 Jan 2026Appointments

Leading law firm Freeths has named Katherine Burge as its new Head of Agricultural Property in Oxford, succeeding Iain Davis who is retiring after a distinguished 30-year career, having successfully led the Oxford agricultural team for 23 years

Since joining Freeths in 2017, Katherine has been pivotal in expanding the firm’s agricultural and rural property services, providing expert advice to landowners, farmers, and rural businesses on complex property transactions, estate management, and development issues. This appointment signifies Freeths’ ongoing commitment to growth in the agricultural sector and dedication to delivering exceptional legal services to rural clients in the area. Iain Davis, reflecting on Katherine’s appointment, stated, “Katherine has an excellent understanding of the agricultural sector and a highly collaborative approach to working with both clients and colleagues.” He expressed confidence that she will maintain the high standards the team is known for. Katherine herself commented, “I am delighted to be taking on this role at such a pivotal time for the agricultural property team and the firm more widely.” She expressed gratitude to Iain for his leadership, acknowledging his substantial contributions to the team and stating that together with Masood Ahmed and the wider team, they will continue to evolve to meet the needs of their clients and support the firm’s ambitions

Legal News desk contact: editorial@solicitorsjournal.com

Latest Articles

Supreme Court rejects limitation period for unfair prejudice petitions

The Supreme Court ruled unfair prejudice petitions are not subject to statutory limitation periods under the Limitation Act 1980

King’s Speech outlines property ownership changes

The King’s Speech proposes significant leasehold reforms aimed at enhancing homeowner rights and transparency

Employment tribunal crisis requires urgent reform

The employment tribunal backlog in England and Wales has reached unprecedented levels, leaving workers in limbo for years

Manhattan Coffee v Mwagiru: when directors lack standing to sue in a company's name during liquidation

A director of a company in liquidation cannot bring proceedings in the company's name.

Rupert Lowe MP v ICGS: High Court rules parliamentary privilege bars judicial review of MP disciplinary proceedings

ICGS complaints against MPs fall within exclusive cognisance of the House of Commons.

Twigg and Bedford v R: Court of Appeal clarifies "in charge" under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991

Two people in different locations can simultaneously be in charge of a dangerous dog.

Przybys v Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police: High Court dismisses judicial review of police decision not to investigate alleged manslaughter

Police discretion not to investigate gross negligence manslaughter upheld as rational where expert regulators were already engaged.

Mudford Parish Council v Somerset Council: when does a local plan policy to "provide" a use require its delivery?

Planning Court rules on the meaning of Policy YV2 in a challenge to outline permission for 765 dwellings.

LLJ v London Borough of Hackney: High Court finds housing appeal decision unlawful over Band A refusal

A family with a severely disabled child in a mould-ridden, overcrowded flat wins judicial review.

SB v PB: how the Court of Protection balanced contact restrictions against care home placement stability

Care home operators, Article 8 rights and the limits of judicial power in best interests decisions

Ilyas Seitayev wins Tribunal whistleblowing case

The Employment Tribunal has ruled in favour of Ilyas Seitayev, affirming his claim against Jusan Technologies Limited and its CEO Masudul Rony Wahid for whistleblowing...

Court quashes rape conviction due to jurisdiction issues

The Court of Appeal has overturned a rape conviction, ruling the Crown Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case

Tax advisers must register under new rules

From 18 May 2026, tax advisers are required to register to enhance standards and protect taxpayers

SJ Interview: Keith Froud

Keith Froud, Global Co-CEO and International Chief Executive of Eversheds Sutherland, has spent over three decades in corporate M&A before moving into global leadership. In...