Dev Desai

Dev is a Partner in the Dispute Resolution Group.

He leads a team of dedicated property dispute resolution experts, serving institutional investors, landowners, lenders, family offices, developers and occupiers.

Clients turn to Dev on cutting-edge market developments and regulation. Collaborating closely with our other experts across disciplines, Dev has spearheaded innovative ESG projects for institutional landlords to meet sustainability goals. In the same vein, Dev maintains a keen interest in prop-tech towards the smart buildings of the future.

Dev’s experience extends across all asset classes into operational property such as hotels, student accommodation and serviced apartments.

Outside of the real estate market, Dev often works in multidisciplinary teams to bring property perspectives to challenges faced by clients in sectors such as renewable energy, transport and infrastructure. Several years in management at Network Rail in the UK, and a six-month secondment as inhouse counsel at a telecommunications infrastructure company, give Dev ready and real-world insight into these industries. In terms of social infrastructure, Dev advises on educational institutions, retail complexes, student accommodation and co-living and other residential developments.

He is a regular legal commentator across media, and editor and contributing author of Butterworth’s Property Insolvency.

Testimonials to the Legal 500 legal directory over the years have said that Dev’s “commercial acumen and experience are second-to-none.” He is commended for his “quick thinking” yet he “looks at a case from every angle.” A “great tactician,” he has a “very hands-on” approach, making him an “excellent man to have on your side.” His team of property disputes lawyers “is particularly strong when it comes to development support, ESG, property-related insolvency and high-class residential matters.” Its “responsiveness marks it out as exceptional” and they “collaborate with all, providing sensible, commercial advice.” He has been commended by Chambers UK for his “very down to earth style” and the “personal touch that makes his clients feel valued.”