Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Leigh-on-Sea
Cooper Lingard has been providing legal services in South East Essex since 1922, establishing itself as a trusted and enduring presence in the legal profession. Our firm combines over a century of experience with a commitment to delivering efficient, first-class legal solutions tailored to individual client needs. We specialise in property conveyancing, family law, litigation, business law, wills and probate, and employment law, serving both private and corporate clients. Our team of qualified solicitors, including Sandra D. Lanaway, Richard J. Phillips, and James E. Baker, maintains a personal approach, ensuring continuity of service from initial consultation to case resolution. We prioritise clear communication, keeping clients informed at every stage while minimising stress during complex legal processes.Our expertise extends to advising banks, building societies, and trading companies on commercial agreements, insolvency, and employment contracts. Recognising the emotional challenges of family matters and property transactions, we provide empathetic guidance while maintaining professional excellence. Our long-standing reputation as 'The friendly firm in Leigh' reflects our dedication to accessibility and client-centric service. We adhere to rigorous professional standards, with our practices overseen by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and the Legal Ombudsman. Whether handling residential property sales, corporate restructuring, or contentious probate cases, we combine traditional values with contemporary legal knowledge to achieve optimal outcomes for our clients.
Services
Property Conveyancing
Family Law
Litigation
Business Law
Wills & Probate
Employment Law
Details
- Year established: 1922
Highlights and features
- We offer over 100 years of legal expertise in South East Essex
- Our partners personally handle cases from start to finish
- Specialist solicitors in property, family law, and commercial litigation
- Recognised for accessible, client-focused legal services
- Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority for professional standards
Associations and certifications
- Solicitors Regulation Authority
- Legal Ombudsman
What people say
Amazing conveyancing service
Most steady and reassuring part
Smoothed out issues without fuss
Strongly recommend as conveyancers
Dedicated legal advisors
Services
Property Conveyancing
We handle residential and commercial property transactions including purchases, sales, and re-mortgaging. Our solicitors manage lease agreements, property development projects, and resolve title issues efficiently. Clients benefit from our century-long expertise in Essex property law and our commitment to making transactions stress-free through clear communication and proactive problem-solving.
Family Law
Our experienced team handles divorce, child custody, adoption, and financial settlements with sensitivity. We provide practical advice on separation agreements and represent clients in court proceedings. Our approach balances legal expertise with emotional support during challenging family transitions.
Litigation
We represent clients in commercial disputes, debt recovery, and complex litigation matters. Our solicitors have a strong track record in resolving shareholder conflicts, contract breaches, and insolvency-related litigation. We combine courtroom experience with strategic negotiation to achieve favourable outcomes.
Wills & Probate
Our specialists draft wills, establish trusts, and manage probate administration. We advise on lasting powers of attorney and handle contentious probate cases. Clients receive comprehensive guidance to ensure asset distribution aligns with their wishes while complying with current inheritance laws.
Business Law
We support businesses from formation to expansion, handling company sales, partnership agreements, and commercial contracts. Our services include employment law compliance, intellectual property protection, and dispute resolution for corporate clients across various industries.
People
Sandra D. Lanaway
Partner
LL.B Hons qualified solicitor with extensive experience in property law and commercial transactions. Specialises in guiding clients through complex property developments and business acquisitions while maintaining Cooper Lingard's tradition of personal service.
Richard J. Phillips
Partner
Experienced legal professional managing a diverse caseload including family law matters and commercial litigation. Focuses on delivering practical solutions while upholding the firm's commitment to accessible, high-quality legal representation.
James E. Baker
Partner
LL.M qualified solicitor specialising in property conveyancing and probate. Recognised for expertise in residential transactions and estate administration, combining technical knowledge with client-focused communication to simplify complex legal processes.
Colin T. Lander
Executive Assistant
Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives with specialist skills in property law and commercial agreements. Provides expert support to partners while maintaining direct client relationships across various legal matters.
Questions
What areas of law does Cooper Lingard specialise in?
We specialise in property conveyancing, family law, litigation, business law, wills and probate, and employment law, serving both private and corporate clients.
How long has Cooper Lingard been operating in South East Essex?
We have provided legal services in South East Essex since 1922, maintaining our reputation as a trusted local law firm for over 100 years.
How does Cooper Lingard handle property transactions?
We manage all aspects of property conveyancing including purchases, sales, re-mortgaging, lease agreements, and property development projects with expert guidance.
What should I do if I have a complaint about legal services?
Please refer to our complaints policy linked via the Solicitors Regulation Authority or Legal Ombudsman for formal resolution procedures.
Do you assist corporate clients with business legal matters?
Yes, we advise banks, building societies, and trading companies on commercial agreements, insolvency, employment contracts, and corporate restructuring.
Reviews (5)
Paul Delaney
May 22, 2022
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James Baker provided conveyancing services on our sale and purchase. James was very professional and helped guide us through what can be a stressful time, all issues with the chain were dealt with calmly and efficiently.
Henryk Bardua
Dec 13, 2021
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My wife and I are extremely impressed with Mr. James Baker, he is an exceptionally efficient and highly professional solicitor. Despite one or two unforeseen hindrances in the recent sale of a house for us, he dealt with everything with effortless competence, limitless energy and unfailing good nature. We are very grateful for the way in which James kept us informed of developments and never took his eye off the ball. A huge Thank You to James!
Samantha Gow
Dec 04, 2021
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I have used Cooper Lingard for matrimonial and conveyancing services, and both departments were fantastic. Pauline Bartlett not only helped me professionally but also kept my emotions in perspective. James Baker, with the help of Nicola, also supported me by always being available and explaining every part of the process. Thanks so much to you all, I would highly recommend this firm.
Nitzan Lazar
Nov 10, 2021
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James Baker is one of the best solicitor I have ever used. Very proactive, professional, friendly and knows his job. His advice was great. He responded to emails late at night and on weekends. I could not ask for a better supportive solicitor. Will advise anyone that needs a solicitor to use cooper lingard. If we ever move again or need a solicitor copcoolingard will be the one. James thank you so much for all your hard work and support
Edd Gillan
Sep 19, 2021
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James and the team provided the conveyancing services for our recent home move. Patient, helpful and insightful throughout and really took a lot of the stress out of the process. Thanks very much
