Business Details
Expert Legal Services in Tunbridge Wells
Established in 1570, we are the oldest law firm in the world, combining centuries of legal expertise with modern working practices tailored to client needs. Our team delivers comprehensive legal solutions across corporate, real estate, family, employment, and private wealth matters, serving clients in Kent, London, the South East, and nationally. With a culture rooted in integrity, respect, and innovation, we prioritise building strong relationships through active listening and practical insight.Our cross-departmental collaboration ensures seamless service, drawing on specialist knowledge in areas such as agricultural law, planning, construction, and dispute resolution. Recognised by Chambers UK and The Legal 500 for our commercial acumen and client-focused approach, we provide cost-effective, timely advice while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.
Services
Corporate advisory
Real estate finance
Estate planning
Dispute resolution
Commercial contracts
Residential development
Employment law
Family law
Medical negligence
Planning law
Highlights and features
- Oldest law firm in the world with continuous operation since 1570
- Recognised by Chambers UK and The Legal 500 for commercial acumen
- Multidisciplinary teams specialising in complex real estate and development
- Client-focused approach with transparent communication style
- Award-winning expertise in agricultural property and planning law
Associations and certifications
- Solicitors Regulation Authority
What people say
Deep expertise
Personalised service
Proactive approach
Commercial awareness
Fantastic service
Services
Real Estate Finance
Our real estate finance team advises lenders and borrowers on development finance, commercial finance, and mezzanine finance. We handle bilateral and syndicated loan agreements, inter-creditor arrangements, and security documentation. With extensive experience in agricultural and commercial property transactions, we ensure timely completion while protecting client interests through pragmatic legal solutions.
Residential Development
Specialising in land acquisition, infrastructure agreements, and plot sales, we support developers and landowners across the UK. Our expertise includes promotion agreements, overage arrangements, and planning compliance. We collaborate with construction and planning teams to deliver comprehensive solutions for strategic land development and housing schemes.
Agricultural Property
We provide specialist advice on agricultural land transactions, tenancies, and development projects. Our ALA-qualified team handles grazing licences, sporting rights, and renewable energy schemes. We work closely with probate and employment teams to address complex issues in land sales, lettings, and disputes.
Planning Law
Our planning experts navigate complex regulatory frameworks for developers, funders, and local authorities. We handle section 106 agreements, judicial reviews, and permitted development rights. With expertise in biodiversity net gains and conservation covenants, we resolve planning disputes and enforcement challenges through strategic legal interventions.
Construction Law
We advise on construction contracts, project documentation, and dispute resolution for developers and contractors. Our team supports lenders and borrowers in financing arrangements while addressing adjudication and international project requirements. We focus on preventing disputes through clear contractual frameworks and practical project management.
Questions
What areas of law do you specialise in?
We specialise in corporate, real estate, family, employment, private wealth, agricultural property, planning, and dispute resolution law, with recognition in Chambers UK and The Legal 500.
How long has the firm been operating?
Thomson Snell & Passmore has been continuously operating since 1570, making us the oldest law firm in the world.
Do you offer services outside Kent?
Yes, while based in Kent, we provide legal services across London, the South East, and nationally for clients in various sectors.
What accreditations do you hold?
We are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA number 615534) and hold specialist accreditations in agricultural law through the Agricultural Law Association.
How do you handle complex property transactions?
Our multidisciplinary approach combines real estate, finance, and construction expertise to resolve complex transactions efficiently, with tailored contractual frameworks and dispute prevention strategies.
