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Simon Ralphs

Partner

Simon Ralphs

Partner

“He is a problem solver who consistently delivers excellent service.”

The Legal 500

Simon Ralphs is a partner in the commercial real estate team, advising on a broad range of commercial property transactions but with a well regarded specialism in the food and restaurant sector.

Simon acts for institutional investors, large retailers, property funds, developers and landlords and tenants of all types and sizes.

Simon has over 20 years of experience working in commercial property and is well known in both the London and Thames Valley areas.

Simon is also well connected in the restaurant space with a detailed knowledge of restaurant leases and franchise arrangements. His passion for the food and restaurant sector has seen him support a range of clients, many of them, at the forefront of new developments in the sector.

Experience

Acquisitions and disposals

Frequently advises on the sale and purchase of freehold and leasehold properties. On acquisitions this includes co-ordinating title investigation and due diligence in connection with the purchase all types of property investments, including multi-let buildings and sites.

Development

Regularly acts for landlords and tenants in negotiating agreements for lease with development obligations, including agreeing conditions on planning and construction.

Investment and Property Management

Providing clear advice on the terms of any existing leases and supporting documentation. In addition, ongoing management of client’s property assets, including negotiating and agreeing supplemental documents where required.

Franchising

With many years of experience in franchising including acting for a large restaurant operator preparing and agreeing franchise documentation to facilitate their ambitious franchising programme.

What our clients say

“Simon Ralphs gives very straightforward, practical advice based on his commercial judgement, as opposed to strictly legal advice.”

Chambers and Partners 2025

“Simon always displays a high degree of skill, knowledge and professionalism.”

Chambers 2024

“Simon Ralphs, one of the partners, is my go to solicitor when recommending a local lawyer. I have completed over a dozen deals with him and we have a perfect record of getting deals over the line so I can completely trust that he will do a good job. He is very experienced and knows the local area very well.”

Legal 500 2024

“We’ve been very lucky to have Simon work for us on two recent leases and can’t fault his approach. His communication, professionalism and advice has been invaluable.”

The Cheese Bar and Pick & Cheese

“We were delighted with Simon’s service and advice.”

Chambers 2024

“Simon Ralphs is excellent in what he does for us and always delivers.”

Legal 500 2024

“Simon is a problem solver who consistently delivers excellent service.”

Chambers 2024

“Simon Ralphs and Pierre Dutton are the people who mainly work for us. Both are approachable, helpful, professional, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with.”

Legal 500 2024

“Simon Ralphs is outstanding.”

Legal 500 2025

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