Public & Regulatory

We understand the public interest.

We act for public bodies and regulators. But we also act for the charities, businesses, campaigning groups and individuals affected by their regimes.

We bring a high level of legal acumen, teamed with a practical understanding of how to best negotiate the issues you are facing. We know that you need strategic advice from a team that knows your world.

Many of our team worked for government departments or in-house for public bodies before joining us. So, we understand the statutory and policy framework and real-world challenges you’re dealing with.


How we help

As we act for regulators and regulated bodies, we see issues from every side and hold public authorities to account whenever we need to.

We’re specialists in judicial reviews. If you’re facing a challenge, we can move quickly – especially in the earliest stages, where we can readily mount claims without involving counsel.

We’ll also advise on:

  • Procedural fairness and human rights issues
  • Sound decision making
  • Regulatory, legislative and policy drafting; including codes of conduct and dispute processes
  • Implementing statutory and regulatory requirements into your processes and procedures
  • Tribunal claims, statutory appeals and inquiries
  • Public sector audit law.
Explore

Updated guidance for schools under the Equality Act regarding pupils with protected characteristics

The Equality and Human Rights Commission has updated its technical guidance for schools on their obligations under the Equality Act …
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Complaints and disciplinary procedures

Dealing with complaints is an inevitable part of any organisation’s work. But for organisations exercising a public function (such as …
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Bates Wells successfully supports claimants challenging unviable rural development

The High Court has this week in R (Watton and Cameron) v Cornwall Council [2023] EWHC 2436 (Admin) set out …
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Ofqual consults on long-term resilience arrangements – have your say now

If you work for an awarding body, school or college, have your say! Ofqual is jointly consulting with the Department …
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Covid-19 Inquiry – Module 2 now open

On 31 August, the UK Covid-19 Inquiry announced the opening of its second investigation, which will look at the core …
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“We like their expertise in this area of the law and the way they go above and beyond in understanding our legal concerns and modus operandi. We also like their proactive, joined-up and collaborative approach, and how they can get together a substantial team to deal with pressing matters”

Public & Regulatory, Chambers 2020
Meet our team