Gateley’s Regulatory & Business Defence team has enhanced its services for housebuilders and construction businesses with the appointment of a new senior regulatory law adviser.

Richard Ellis, an experienced criminal defence adviser and accredited police station representative, joins Gateley to support clients facing criminal and regulatory investigations, including those led by the Police, HMRC, the National Crime Agency (NCA), the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), and the Environment Agency (EA).

With more than 20 years’ experience, Richard has acted for individuals and businesses in both the Crown Court and Court of Appeal, often in highly publicised, serious criminal cases involving significant public interest.

“I’m very pleased to welcome Richard to Gateley,” said Ruth Armstrong, partner and head of Regulatory & Business Defence. “His skills and experience perfectly complement the existing capabilities within our growing team and will help us to continue to deliver our high-quality service to clients, whatever kind of regulatory investigation or crisis they may be facing.”

Prior to Gateley, Richard worked at one of the leading criminal defence practices in the West Midlands. He has extensive experience in criminal defence work, including preparing Crown Court cases and supporting clients in interviews under caution, often on very short notice and without advance warning.

Previously, Richard successfully defended a construction site manager accused of gross negligence manslaughter, supporting them through a cautioned interview with both the Police and the HSE, and identifying gaps in evidence. He has also represented several company directors and individuals in complex cases involving fraud, money laundering, and the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.

“Housebuilder and construction clients are facing tougher regulation, increasingly proactive regulators, and greater enforcement sanctions, so it’s more important than ever that they have someone ready to fight their corner and ensure they are treated fairly,” Richard says. “I’m looking forward to adding to the already extensive regulatory expertise here at Gateley to ensure clients are supported at the most difficult and stressful times from the moment they pick up the phone.”

Gateley’s Regulatory & Business Defence team specialises in supporting its construction clients across a wide range of regulatory issues, including those involving the HSE, the EA, the Police, HMRC, and UK Border Force. The team also supports some of the UK’s top housebuilders in meeting their obligations under the Building Safety Act.