Matt Hawkins is the epitome of hard work and tenacity. Matt joined the Firm in the capacity of a Trainee Solicitor in 2002. He became a qualified solicitor in April 2004. With his determined, robust and proactive approach, Matt worked his way up the ranks to the well-earned position of Director in 2007.
Matt’s particular interest lies in property matters affecting landowners and farmers with specific focus on farms, estate sales and purchases, agricultural tenancies, development land sales (including promotion and option agreements), re-mortgages and intra-family transfers. He has comprehensive knowledge of the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and Environmental Stewardship. Matt also provides inheritance tax planning advice to his clients, especially in relation to Agricultural Property Relief, Business Property Relief and general succession planning. He is a member of the Agricultural Law Association and CLA; often presenting seminars to clients and other professionals on agricultural-related topics.
As meticulous as he is proactive, Matt’s affable nature and amiable personality is immediately apparent to clients, colleagues and other professionals. His deep interest in his work, enthusiasm and dedication to clients is also clearly evident in the way he applies very practical and cost effective solutions to their matters. He is ranked as a Leading Individual by both the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners UK. The latest edition of the Legal 500 UK, describes Matt as an “excellent communicator with exemplary attention to detail and extensive knowledge of agricultural property law.”
While according to Chambers & Partners UK 2017, the “excellent Matt Hawkins advises landowners and farmers on a variety of property matters including sales and purchases, intra-family transfers and agricultural tenancy issues. A client states: “I think he is brilliant, he has very good attention to detail. He explains information clearly and concisely and takes away the fear of the unknown.”
In whatever spare time he allows himself, Matt enjoys a wayward game of golf at the weekend. He also supports local country pursuits and is of course a dedicated season ticket holder at Northampton Saints!