David Low Partner
Dispute Resolution
David Low is a highly respected specialist in property and commercial litigation, known for his strategic and pragmatic approach to resolving disputes. He joined Swinburne Maddison in 2007 and qualified as a solicitor in 2009 before being promoted to Partner in 2014. With over 17 years of experience, David now leads the firm’s Property Litigation and Social Housing teams while maintaining a significant caseload.
David’s expertise spans complex property disputes, housing litigation, and commercial litigation. He is particularly valued for his ability to provide clear, commercially focused advice, helping clients manage risk while achieving the best possible outcomes. He is trusted by a diverse range of clients, from large corporate entities to social landlords and private investors with substantial property portfolios.
As head of Social Housing, David has driven the team’s growth, securing key appointments through public procurement. Working closely with the Commercial Property team, he has helped the firm secure positions with providers like Beyond Housing, Broadacres Housing Association, and Inclusion Housing, reinforcing its reputation in this sector.
In addition to his legal role, David, as Training Partner, supports trainees through their contracts, providing mentorship and hands-on experience. His practical guidance helps develop their technical and commercial skills, strengthening the firm’s talent and expertise.
David is committed to delivering high-calibre legal services with integrity and precision. He believes in fostering strong relationships, and ensuring clients feel supported and confident in their legal strategies. His approach is rooted in collaboration and practical problem-solving, making him a sought-after advisor in his field.
- Property Litigation
- Housing Litigation
- Commercial Litigation
- Debt Recovery
- Social Housing
David has built a distinguished career as a litigator, handling high-stakes property disputes and commercial litigation matters. His expertise spans Commercial Lease Disputes, Social Housing Litigation, Contentious Landlord & Tenant Matters, and Commercial Contract and Shareholder Disputes.
With extensive experience in advising social landlords, corporate entities, SMEs, and private landowners—particularly those with large property portfolios—David consistently delivers strategically focused, results-driven advice.
His day-to-day work involves representing clients in complex tribunal cases, high-value land disputes, and advising on litigation strategies, with a commercially savvy approach and strong relationships with regional land agents, ensuring favourable outcomes for his clients.
Career highlights
- Successful Defence in Adverse Possession Tribunal Case – David represented a landowner seeking to develop a disputed property in a complex litigation matter. The case proceeded to a fully contested trial before the First-Tier Tribunal in the Property Chamber, where, through meticulous preparation and strategic advocacy, the claim was defeated on all grounds. The tribunal dismissed the application and awarded a substantial Costs Order in favour of David’s client.
David’s approach is built on integrity, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of his clients’ commercial priorities. He believes in providing solutions-driven advice, ensuring that litigation is only pursued when necessary and that clients always have a clear path forward. His ability to foresee challenges and mitigate risks sets him apart from other lawyers in his field.
Key Appointments:
- Deputy District Judge
- Trustee, Suubi Africa UK.
- Chair of the Durham & District Junior League
- Board Member, Northumberland & Durham Swimming Association
Key Memberships:
- Member of Newcastle Law Society
- Member of the Property Litigation Association
David was named as a Leading Partner in the 2025 edition and Leading Individual in the 2024 edition of the Legal 500, highlighting his prestigious standing within Property Litigation Law within the North East. He has also been recognised for his expertise in Commercial Litigation, having been named Next Generation Partner for the past three years.
"David Low was exceptional in terms of dealing with our case, keeping me updated and ensuring that I knew next steps. They made me feel like we were working together to achieve a great outcome."
"David Low has provided responsive and professional advice on a litigation matter, demonstrating great communication skills and a firm guiding hand."
"David Low provided succinct, timely and relevant advice, and kept well on top of the litigation."
"David Low, as the partner in charge, is excellent at explaining the art of the possible."
"From my first phone call in quite a distressed state by a matter that had been in our lives for nearly three years then until the conclusion two weeks ago the highly professional and sympathetic advice and service we have received has been second to none. Our position and how this matter has affected us was dealt with compassion and understanding."
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Careers at Swinburne Maddison
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