Peter Cusick appointed as partner at Roythornes

Leading food and drink sector law firm Roythornes has announced the appointment of Peter Cusick as a partner within its agriculture, food and litigation teams.

Described by Chambers UK, which ranks the best lawyers in the country, as “a brilliant legal mind”, Mr Cusick has a national reputation for agricultural and food cases

Chambers UK added: “He is incredibly efficient and immediate in his response. He is totally up-to-date with all the legal aspects of a dispute. He is very quick to grasp the essential implications of any situation, and to clearly see options to resolve the problem.”

Mr Cusick has a national reputation for agricultural and food cases including successfully handling complex cases against the Rural Payments Agency and DEFRA, particularly in the area of fruit and vegetable Producer Organisations (POs) and other subsidies.

Instructed by farmers whose livestock contracted Foot and Mouth Disease in 2007, he was central to an important test case against the Institute for Animal Health, DEFRA and others.

His cases often have a European dimension and he has acted in the European Court of Justice.

In addition, he also advised clients on a wide range of commercial disputes including partnership disputes, agency law, banking litigation and professional negligence claims.

He also acts on planning and environmental disputes with particular expertise in cases involving the adoption of sewerage systems.

Speaking about the appointment Peter Bennett, head of the food and drink team, said: “Peter is a fantastic addition to the Roythornes team – his breadth of experience and expertise speaks for itself.

“He has tremendous experience across a range of fields which I am sure will be invaluable to our clients.

“We’re delighted to have him as part of the team and believe this further solidifies our status as the leading practice in the food and drink sector.”

He is listed as a leading solicitor with the major legal directories and is also a CEDR Accredited Mediator.

For more information on Roythornes food and drink team, visit www.roythornes.co.uk