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The professionals - interview with Howard Colman and Robert Coyle

Tell us about Colman Coyle

We founded the firm back in 1984, after both being partners at Duthie Hart & Duthie. Initially the firm did predominantly property work, however, we are now a full service commercial firm specialising in not only property but also litigation, company commercial and employment law.

What the toughest aspect of the job.

We both agree that the toughest aspect of being a solicitor is not the day to day running of cases and all the legal work involved, but actually the day-to-day running of the firm and all the decisions on every aspect of the firm which need to be made.

Do you enjoy being based in Islington?

Howard: Islington is an excellent place to be based, not only are you never short of a place for lunch or to entertain; we are also not too far away from the city, but can still pass on the benefits of not actually being in the city to all of our clients.

Robert: I'm also on the board of the Angel Business Improvement District (Angel BID), which works at keeping the environment in which local businesses operate in safer, cleaner and brighter. BID achieves this through various schemes such as recycling, our stopwatch radio scheme and by paying for additional policing in Angel. All the street cleaning trucks are also paid for by BID. The aim is for existing traders to remain in the area, and also encourage new business. These initiatives definitely make being based in Islington even better.

What do you enjoy doing when not at work?

Robert: My favourite pastime is sailing, this is something I do every weekend at my local club.

Howard: I particularly enjoy golf and rugby. Playing the former and watching the latter!

What area of law do you specialise in?

Robert: I specialise in Commercial Property Law and advise investor clients on acquisitions and disposals, lettings, renewals, rent reviews and other matters. I also work closely with developer clients in relation to site acquisitions, development and disposals.

Howard: I head up the Commercial Litigation and Dispute Resolution Department. I act for a variety of from private individuals to major PLCs. My main areas of specialism are Construction, property Contractual Disputes and Professional Negligence. I am also a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, a Mediator and an Adjudicator

In one sentence describe the service clients receive at Colman Coyle

Howard: A personal approach aimed at not just dealing with the immediate issues of any problem but developing a strategy to achieve the best possible result for the client.

Robert: A completely client led service, which at its core aims to achieve a commercially sound solution for the client.

What does the future hold for Colman Coyle?

We aim to continue growing and developing new practice areas, without losing sight of the values and importance we place on the client relationship and service. Not forgetting the development and nurturing of our own employees. And of course - staying right where we are at no. 80 Upper Street

Author: Interview

Publication: Live Islington Magazine

Date: September 2009