Published
15th October 2026

Following a competitive tender process, national law firm Shakespeare Martineau has secured a place on four lots of the Housing Associations’ Legal Alliance (HALA) legal services framework.

The appointment strengthens the firm’s position in the affordable housing sector, providing an opportunity to build relationships with more than 50 social housing providers collectively managing over 500,000 homes across England and Wales.

Shakespeare Martineau’s affordable housing team has been appointed to lots covering housing and asset management; development; residential property; and construction litigation.

The framework will run for an initial three-year term from October 2026, with the option to extend for a further 12 months.

Emma Joy Smith, affordable housing partner at Shakespeare Martineau, said: “Securing a place on all four lots we bid for is a fantastic result for the team and recognises the breadth of our expertise and our understanding of the affordable housing sector.

“HALA brings together some of the UK’s largest housing associations, and we’re looking forward to building relationships with its members and supporting them with the legal challenges and opportunities they face.

“This appointment follows our recent success in retaining our conveyancing work with The ExtraCare Charitable Trust through the Communities and Housing Investment Consortium (CHIC) framework.

“Together, these appointments are a strong endorsement of the team’s expertise and growing reputation in the affordable housing market. We look forward to building on these relationships and continuing to support organisations delivering much-needed homes and services to their communities.”


This content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to address the circumstances of any individual or entity, nor should it be relied upon as a substitute for specific advice from a qualified solicitor. The information reflects the legal position as at the date specified and may be subject to change. If you require advice on a specific matter, please contact us directly.

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About the Author

Emma specialises in fully mutual housing associations, leasehold schemes for the elderly and large volume single unit disposal programmes. She offers a bespoke asset management service to registered providers and fully mutual housing associations. She also oversees all the sale transactions within the team including shared ownership, staircasing, repossessions, elderly living, auctions, and right to buys/acquire.