Defamation specialist opens Newcastle office

A specialist legal practice focused on reputation management and defamation law has launched a new Newcastle office.

Samuels Solicitors LLP has opened its third office on Newcastle’s Quayside, led by senior associate solicitor Matthew Howe.

Matthew previously represented former England footballer and broadcaster Eni Aluko in her successful defamation and harassment claim against Joey Barton, which resulted in the former footballer being ordered to pay £339,000 in damages and costs.

He also assisted in Jeremy Vine’s earlier successful claim against Barton and has acted in a range of high-profile reputation management and intellectual property disputes.

The new office will provide specialist expertise in areas including defamation, libel, slander, intellectual property and commercial litigation.

Matthew said: “Reputation is one of the most valuable assets a business owner or professional has, and the consequences of an attack on it can be serious, and in some cases irreversible.

“Untrue statements published online can spread to thousands of people within hours, so acting quickly is critical. 

“Having a base on the Quayside means clients in the North East can access specialist advice locally and at speed, rather than dealing with London firms remotely.”

Matthew is joined in Newcastle by trainee solicitor Tarushi Bahuguna, with the team also advising on landlord and tenant disputes, boundary disagreements, building disputes and contractual claims.

Alongside court work, the practice supports clients with pre-publication libel checks, crisis management planning and drafting public statements responding to allegations made on social media platforms including X, TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Already established in Barnstaple and Kingsbridge in Devon, the Newcastle launch strengthens Samuels Solicitors’ national reach while bringing specialist legal expertise to clients across the North East.

Judith Thompson, managing partner at Samuels Solicitors LLP, added: “From our base in Barnstaple, which opened over 30 years ago, we've grown a successful second office in Kingsbridge, and Newcastle is the natural next step. 

“It's a great city and we're looking forward to building the practice here.”

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