Kate has been rated by the directories the Legal 500 and Chambers UK and the Legal Experts Directory as a leader in her field since 2008.
Legal 500 2024
Testimonials
“Kate Matthews always provides great legal advice with a commercial and practical application, so clients absolutely trust her advice and expertise.”
“I dealt with Kate Matthews, the lawyer and expert in legal matters. The team did not drown into a sea of sophisticated technical terminology or technical arguments but instead succeeded in delivering first class documents which stood in court both on technical grounds and also in legal terms.”
“Boddy Matthews have always been very professional, offering differing areas of expertise and sound advice. Kate Matthews has always been reliable and efficient with excellent problem solving abilities. She takes the time to understand the clients’ needs and requirements and works hard to find the necessary resolution.”
“The team is run by two very hard working and dedicated legal professionals. They have a wealth of knowledge in commercial and employment law. Both partners are extremely approachable and go above and beyond the call of duty to help. Kate Matthews is exceptionally dedicated to obtaining the very best outcome for her clients. She consistently guided us through a very tricky litigation. Without her expertise we would likely have found ourselves without a business. We cannot overstate the positive impact of her outstanding legal assistance.”
“We have worked exclusively with Kate Matthews. The case we are working on with her is a frustrating one yet she is always energetic and pragmatic. I think that durability is a key factor in cases like this when we (the clients) are alternating between tearing our hair out and bored with the whole nonsense. She is efficient and supportive and, we believe, a very good lawyer.”
“Kate Matthews is approachable, pragmatic, and in my opinion Kate and her team are formidable in their approach to my litigation case, which is unusual and complex. Her response time to queries is exceptional.”
“I believe Kate Matthews to be unique in her approach to litigation, not only is she exceptionally informed in that field but she always takes time to explain options, strategies, produce agendas and map out her plan of action.”
“Boddy Matthews Solicitors have a unique legal model. They are small in terms of team but this works and they can offer a comprehensive and effective legal service. They are responsive to contact, pragmatic and effective. They offer London expertise locally. Large legal practices will struggle to offer this personalisation. Kate Matthews is outstanding. Kate is intelligent, perceptive and pragmatic. If you have Kate dealing with your litigation requirements, you will definitely be in good hands.”
“I have known and worked with Kate Matthews for 25 years. She has always given clear and practical advice and support. She is also an industry champion.”
“Kate Matthews and Louise Elliott have been fantastic from the very first contact. Kate Matthews is definitely stand-out for me. Since Louise Elliott took over my case, she has been one of a kind. She has an extremely professional approach and conduct, she is efficient in handling my matters, thorough, accessible, effective, bold in arguments, robust, gives good value for my work overall and achieves results. They are both extremely easy to work with and proactive. I would definitely recommend them and this firm to anyone.”
Chambers UK 2022
Franchising – UK-wide Band 3 – Kate Matthews
Kate Matthews has a strong reputation for her experience in handling contentious franchising matters for both franchisors and franchisees. She regularly advises on disputes concerning allegations of breach of contract, misrepresentation and unlawful termination.
“Kate Matthews is a knowledgeable lawyer who is quick to assess the situation and has a keen eye for detail.” “She is pragmatic and aware of the commercial side of the advice she is giving you, which gives you a great foundation to then make a decision.” “She’s quick to respond, thorough in her research and detailed in her reports.”
Litigation – The South Band 3 – Kate Matthews
Kate Matthews has deep experience handling commercial disputes, particularly those relating to contractual issues.
“She doesn’t hide behind legal jargon but puts things into terms the lay person can understand. She is very knowledgeable and approachable.”
Legal 500 2022
Individual rankings
Kate Matthews is ranked as a Leading Individual in the elite “Leading lawyers” list.
Testimonials
“Boddy Matthews are very personable in their approach. They have always been very professional, providing all costs up front and sticking to these. I feel I have always had very sound and sensible advice from them and whilst providing options on legal issues they allow me to weigh up the best way forward. Where necessary they have bought in specialist advisors around contract law. Overall I feel they have been an asset to my company. “
“A small but highly personalized service. Clear distinction between specialties and areas of expertise. Approachable and highly conscientious of keeping the project on track from a timing and billing perspective.”
“Excellent support. Very happy to collaborate with. Investigated a very new area of the law above and beyond the call of duty.”
“Dedication to claim. Very professional and approachable.”
“Kate Matthews tells you the facts straight and as they come, which I like as it allows me to have a clear understanding of my options.”
“Kate Matthews is always professional and clearly displayed a deep understanding of dealing with HMRC working methods and procedures, making the process of my case efficient and to the point.”
Corporate and Commercial
Testimonials
“Friendly and willing to explain things clearly. Returned calls when messages were left. Answered questions and dealt with my requirements in good time. Provided a good written document/report for me to refer back to when needed. “
“They understand my business very well and they also understand me very well so they are able to tailor their advice to meet my specific needs and requirements. They are always available and respond to my calls, even when they are on holiday.”
“It is a small team which provides an efficient service. Partners often consult with each other in order to provide a fuller legal service rather than specific advice on one branch of the law.”
“Friendly and professional and dealt with me like a customer, not just another number. Offered a personal and professional service and I was never left feeling like I was simply dealing with another computer dishing out automated responses, even during these pandemic times.”
“Incredibly knowledgeable and very helpful advice.”
“Kate Matthews was recommended to me by a banking contact as an expert in franchise agreements, which proved to be the case. She was easy to contact directly and she responded quickly to requests for support.”
“Kate Matthews is very knowledgeable and very happy to give advice without being billed for every second you talk. They have a team that each has their speciality and are happy to refer you to any member. They understand your requirements (even though you may not speak their language) and are able to explain things in plain English.”
“Kate Matthews was clearly focused on providing appropriate guidance and support for my specific requirements. Responded quickly and within requested timescales. I was confident with the guidance, advice and support she provided and this encouraged me to undertake further due diligence before proceeding with the franchise agreement. I would not hesitate to use Kate again or indeed recommend her services to others seeking legal guidance in respect of franchise agreements.”
“[T]hank you. You really are the best!
December 2021 – CEO of young persons charity and Community Interest Company
“I wanted to say a big thank you to [Kate] for all your help, advice and hard work guiding me through a very difficult time during the past 2 years!”
November 2021 – Director Shareholder of property development company
“Thank you, Kate. That’s absolutely brilliant.”
February 2021 – Owner Director of a number of cleaning services companies
“Having Kate by our side as our company solicitor in 2020 has been one of the biggest positives of our year. Not only has she been an incredibly talented and experienced legal advisor (as always) to help my company through some of the biggest challenges it has ever faced but she has been a huge support to myself and my team on a much more personal, compassionate and empathetic level. We have always loved working with Kate but in 2020 her service was phenomenal. We had some tough legal franchising decisions to make through 2020 but knowing that we were able to rely on her incredible knowledge and expertise of the franchise industry made these decisions much more tolerable. It’s also important to add that Kate was always mindful and considerate of our financial situation so that we could still access her services when finances were tight. She was always happy to agree payment terms and even discounted her services to help us through, which meant so much to us. That level of kindness shows just how much Kate cares about her clients. Kate shines above the rest and deserves to be recognised for her service through 2020.”
January 2021- Owner and Franchisor of the Baby Ballet brand
“I have worked with Kate Matthews over a number of years in franchising, firstly when she was at the legal firms, Shadbolt & Co, Stevens & Bolton and then since 2013 in her own firm Boddy Matthews. When I’ve asked Kate for legal advice around franchising she is always positive, pragmatic and honest as well as being aware of the commercial side of the advice she is giving so, gives you a great foundation to then make decisions from. I’ve had no hesitation in referring franchisees/franchisors to her for advice. Kate is also an amazing ambassador for women in franchising – not only in setting up her own legal firm as a shining example. She has also always been the first person to highlight and support a woman in franchising back when there weren’t many of us – through to the amazing job she does pulling the EWIF South group together. Kate has shown she is committed to the EWIF mission by being one of the founding members and also always representing them on exhibition stands and at other events for EWIF. Kate is always great at introducing people in franchising to each other and facilitating the mentoring and education of new franchisors into the sector – particularly when they are female led.”
January 2021 – Franchise Development and Recruitment Consultant
“Thank you very much for the compact and thorough update Kate. You are a first class Legal Professional but you would have made an excellent engineer or scientist likewise and I mean what I am saying; it is not just a compliment…”
December 2020 – CEO of Greek based Aeronautical Manufacturer and Consultants firm
“Kate. I would like to thank you for all the excellent legal advice, support and work you did for me in getting to this position. It is a shame that they could not have come to this conclusion a little earlier as it would have cost a lot less! This is no way a criticism of your charges in any way. It is money well spent, as being able to see the finishing line at last, has taken away the constant stress and worry that has haunted me for years.”
October 2020 – Owner Manager of Interior Design Business and retail outlet
“Kate. Thanks for your help as always.”
October 2020 – CEO owner manager of creative seating solutions business
“I’ve shared the positive news with all key colleagues, stakeholders and friends. We’re all delighted with the outcome and extremely impressed with your good work. It’s been a pleasure working with you and I’ve felt we were in good hands from our very first communication.”
October 2020 – CEO of young persons charity and Community Interest Company
Kate Matthews is lauded for being a “great bridge between the legal and commercial. She focuses on the key points in a sensible course of action and is very diligent in her communications.” She is active in contractual disputes, risk management advice and franchising issues. She is adept at advising national and international companies from a number of sectors.
Chambers UK Legal Directory 2019 – Individual Rank – Litigation – The South – Band 3
Kate Matthews has a particular specialism in contentious franchising matters, in which she represents clients on both the franchisor and franchisee side. An interviewee notes: “Kate instils confidence in her clients and has a pragmatic, businesslike approach.”
Chambers UK Legal Directory 2019 – Individual Rank – Franchising – UK Wide – Band 2
Kate Matthews gives..”very prompt, excellent support.”
December 2019 – Owner Manager of worldwide Design products business
“I’d relish the opportunity to tell others how wonderful you are. Irrespective of the outcome in our claim, and after having worked with other firms, I truly feel we couldn’t be in better hands.”
November 2019 – CEO of a Social Enterprise changing the lives of and housing young people
“Kate, you’re a superstar”
2 October 2019 – Owner manager of a family run drainage cleaning business
“XXX was delighted with the training and hopefully it will greatly assist her in her new role and of course the company as a whole.”
1 October 2019 – CEO of Care Franchise Company
“…I couldn’t have been more pleased with the help you gave me.”
11 February 2019 – Owner manager of a Singing therapy business on business expansion advice
“Kate…..thank you so very much for holding my hand through the nightmare that [this matter] was !!”
2019 February – Corporate Entertainment client and Owner Manager Director
“can I introduce Kate to you (copied) who is a fantastic lawyer who can help you with this…”
7 January 2019 – Female CEO entrepreneur and inhouse lawyer to major PLC
“Kate I have just read your email and attachments. You are amazing. You have made their solicitors look like amateurs….”
22 December 2018 – Beneficiary of an offshore Trust Fund
Kate Matthews is highlighted for her “very good, positive attitude and commercial awareness”
Legal 500 Legal Directory 2018
“Having no idea where to turn with regards to a business dispute, I looked towards Google to throw up some recommendations. I phoned down a list solicitors, Boddy Matthews was the only one where I got to speak directly to a solicitor, not only that I spoke to someone who was willing to understand my issue before agreeing a meeting. My experience of Boddy Matthews, in particular Kate with whom I dealt, has been one which I would expect others to appreciate. Kate allowed me to relax with regards to a situation which was extremely stressful, she explained things in plain English and set out options clearly. My only regret, I just wish I had met Kate earlier in on!”
Director shareholder of A Financial Wealth Management Company 1 October 2018
“It was pleasure to work with you on the Clapham sale and I want to thank you and your team again for a job well done.”
Owner Manager of a training Franchise Business March 2018
Kate Matthews of Boddy Matthews is a specialist in major commercial and construction-related disputes and arbitrations. She assists clients both nationally and domestically, attracting praise for her “good understanding of commercial issues.”
Chambers 2018 – Individual Rank – The South – Litigation Band 3
Kate Matthews of Boddy Matthews is a commercial disputes specialist with significant expertise in franchise matters. A source says: “She has an incredible depth of knowledge and is practically-minded.”
Chambers 2018 – Individual Rank – UK Wide- Franchising Band 3
“…thanks for all your help in 2017”
December 2017 – Managing Director of a City of London Broking Business
“Great service once again from a professional team. Thank you for the fast turnaround, much appreciated.”
November 2017 – Owner/Manager of A Sash Window Supply and Fitting business
“…you were all very helpful and made the experience as simple as it could be, under the circumstances.”
November 2017 – Owner/Manager of a Franchise business for kitchen design and build
“I was very impressed with the thorough, professional and insightful advice provided. I was given a comprehensive answer to my query regarding my Franchise agreement. I had been nervous about how to approach the Franchisor however with not only a detailed report but a very helpful telephone call to back it up I felt much more confident when having the potentially difficult meeting. I would like to thank the team for their support. I can thoroughly recommend Boddy Matthews for advice.”
31 October 2017 – Director and Shareholder of a well-known Medical franchise owner
“Kate Matthews advised the claimant in respect of issues arising out of non /defective performance of the contract for the supply of chairs for fit out works in the aviation industry. Breach of express and implied terms alleged against PSI seating Limited – leaders in their field. Kate’s advice was key at all times and meant that negotiations and a Mediation were successfully achieved pre action. This matter was of great importance for the client to maintain integrity with its end customer for the fit out works and repeat business and important to retain relationship with supplier.”
Envoplan – April 2017
“Thank you so much for your help to date. I am absolutely certain that we could not have got an agreement at all without your presence, your helpful suggestions and letters to XXX and XXX and the power of your suggestions…. Thank you so much for your help.”
Partnership dispute – April 2017
Litigation – The South – Kate is ranked as a leading individual.
“Her people skills are second to none, as is her ability to understand matters outside her own remit.”
Chambers 2017
“We would like to express our deepest thanks to Kate Matthews from Boddy Matthew Ltd who dealt with our urgent and sensitive situation in an efficient and professional manner. Our minds were put at rest, safe in the knowledge that her advice and implementation of that advice was speedy and sound. Again, thank you Kate….”
June 2016 Multiple Franchise owner and CEO of two companies operating in the leisure industry
“Thank you so much for this and your thoughts around this. I thought I may need to speak to you but I understand the issues and just need to talk to [ franchisor] on these. Your prompt attention was very much appreciated.”
Franchisee and Director of national and international leisure franchise – December 2015
“I would recommend you and your firm to anyone”
Chief Engineer Total PLC in Algeria – December 2015
She is noted for her “pragmatic, sensible approach” and she “understands the client’s best interests and balances the legal way of doing things with business common sense.”
Chambers 2015
“Can I recommend to you a lady called Kate Mathews. I am not sure how to describe her, safe to say if I were in trouble she is the first person I would use. Her knowledge is second to none and she is very used to dealing with these sorts of cases. Although a friendly colleague to me she literally destroys opponents. She isn’t cheap but she will win your case and make {XXX} pay for the privilege.”
Solicitor specialising in criminal law – October 2015
“As a British Franchise Association accredited Franchise consultant I have recommended and used Kate Matthews with a number of my clients, both in franchising and licensing, for over 5 years. I have found both her knowledge on UK and International Franchising and Licensing, and her approach to be extremely professional and easy for clients to understand. I would be very happy to recommend any of my clients who are considering franchising or licensing to attend any seminar run by Kate Matthews”.
British Franchise Association accredited Franchise consultant – April 2015
“I would not hesitate to recommend Kate Matthews and her firm Boddy Matthews who are experienced in national and international franchising. Kate and the firm have provided legal support for our needs as Franchisor both nationally and internationally for a number of years and we have developed a valued relationship which we find essential in the franchising sector. Kate Matthews advises us in a clear and effective manner to achieve our goals in the most efficient way possible. Kate uses plain English to explain legal concepts and focusses on the commercial outcome in a pragmatic and concise way. I consider she would be very able to deliver good quality and interesting seminars on international franchising and licensing.”
CEO in restaurant sector – April 2015
“Kate and Helen have provided legal support for our needs as Franchisor both nationally and internationally for a number of years. Where appropriate they have also assisted our franchisees and we have always received very positive feedback on the quality of their services. We would not hesitate to recommend them in this sector. They use clear plain words and help us to understand the most effective route to achieve our goals in the most efficient way possible. We consider Boddy Matthews would be well placed to provide master classes and seminars on international franchising and licensing and make the process educational and interesting for all attendees”
National and international Franchisor in the domiciliary care sector – April 2015
“As a British Franchise Association accredited Franchise consultant I have recommended and used Kate Matthews with a number of my clients, both in franchising and licensing, for over 5 years. I have found both her knowledge on UK and International Franchising and Licensing, and her approach to be extremely professional and easy for clients to understand. I would be very happy to recommend any of my clients who are considering franchising or licensing to attend any seminar run by Kate Matthews.”
British Franchise Association accredited Franchise consultant – April 2015
“Dear Kate.Thanks for the conversation – absolutely first class work.”
CEO of project valve supplier company – April 2015
“I am extremely happy with the service I received from all members of staff [of Boddy Matthews Solicitors] I interacted with particular with Kate Matthews who I find very professional, knowledgable and well-experienced.”
Chartered Accountant and consultant to large multinational firm of accountants – March 2015
Kate Matthews of Boddy Matthews in Surrey has significant experience of commercial and construction-related disputes. Clients appreciate her “straightforward whilst emphatic approach.”
Chambers 2014
“Excellent work. Superb.”
Senior consultant contractor in the Oil and Gas industry (Angola) – October 2014
“I thank you for your time and help. I shall certainly have no hesitation asking for your assistance at any time in the future or recommending your services.”
New Franchise business owner – September 2014
“It was a very difficult time and I feel very lucky to have some amazing people around me who have been absolutely fantastic – thank you Kate for being one of them”
CEO and Managing Director of international fast food company – August 2014
“It was very nice to meet you at WEBA. Your presentation was very impressive. I am looking forward to work with you.”
CEO of the Leading Institute for Foreign Education Consultants, Pakistan – April 2014
“When I found myself in personal unchartered waters and at my lowest ebb, I was pleased to receive the suggestion that you may be able to help. I would like to say that from our first meeting you totally inspired confidence, and I always believed that you would achieve the best outcome possible. You acted promptly, in an efficient and forthright manner and I am truly grateful that I can now move on.”
Managing Director of Company in the care home service sector and Franchisee – April 2014
“Kate provided me with legal representation during a very difficult and turbulent time. Her professionalism and legal knowledge gave me the reassurance and confidence I needed in order to get the matter dealt with. Kate always responded to me in a timely fashion providing advice and assistance as I required it. I would not hesitate in recommending Kate’s services and would like to thank her for all that she has done for me.”
SME owner manager of a company providing children’s yoga services – March 2014
“…Thank you for your fast response and support.”
Assistant Director of Health Integration at a Local Authority – November 2013.
“Your clear advice gave us the confidence we needed to proceed.”
Trustee of a registered charity – November 2013
“The level of professionalism from Boddy Matthews was second to none.”
July 2013
“Kate Matthews and her team were excellent people to work with and we feel were able to assist us in reaching the best possible outcome…”
Chairman of Chaulk Air Inc (Canada) – 2013
[Kate’s advice was] “brilliant …thanks for sorting so quickly”
Head of Complex Underwriting of leading Insurance Company – 2013
“Kate at Boddy Mathews completely understood the specific needs and concerns that I had with regard to my Franchise. [Her] advice and discretion certainly helped to resolve a difficult situation that thankfully led to an amicable solution … I would have no hesitation in recommending her or Boddy Mathews.”
Managing Director of major Interior Designer/ Furniture store – 2013
“[She] has particular expertise in multi-jurisdictional disputes and frequently acts in aviation and contractual matters”
Chambers – 2013
Kate is “very experienced in Dispute resolution” in the franchising sector
Legal 500 – 2013
“[She] has particular expertise in multi-jurisdictional disputes and frequently acts in aviation and contractual matters”
Chambers – 2012
“Top-notch”, “extremely well versed”
Legal 500 – 2011
Kate’s expertise in aviation litigation is recognised as “a strong foundation for the success of the commercial disputes team”
Chambers – 2010
“[The] impressive commercial litigation practice is led by Kate Matthews” 2009
Legal 500 – 2009