Member News
Richard Reed Solicitors has strengthened its Dispute Resolution department with the appointment of solicitor Alex Howarth, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to developing local talent and expanding its expertise in commercial litigation and insolvency work across the North East.
A Sunderland-born solicitor with a strong regional profile, Alex joins the firm’s six-strong Dispute Resolution team, led by Director Phil Moir, bringing experience across a broad range of matters and a clear focus on building long-term relationships with clients, professional advisers and businesses throughout the region.
Alex graduated from Newcastle University, before completing the Legal Practice Course at Northumbria University, beginning his legal career working as a clinical negligence paralegal before securing a training contract and qualifying as a solicitor in 2021. He has since gained experience at firms across the region, building a broad foundation in dispute resolution work across both private and commercial sectors. Alex said his move to Richard Reed Solicitors reflects both the strength of the firm’s reputation and its growing presence within Sunderland’s business community.
Alex added, "Richard Reed has a really strong presence in the region, and what stood out to me was how visible and connected the firm already is within the local business community. The new city centre office reflects the confidence and investment happening in Sunderland, and it’s exciting to be part of a firm that is growing alongside the city. I’m looking forward to building relationships, getting involved in networking and supporting clients with practical, commercially focused advice."
Alex’s work at the firm will predominantly focus on dispute resolution matters, with particular emphasis on insolvency-related disputes, commercial litigation and property-related conflicts. He is also expected to support growing demand in landlord and tenant disputes as legislative changes to renters’ rights continue to evolve, prompting landlords and businesses to review processes and documentation.
He believes businesses increasingly require clear, commercially grounded advice in a challenging economic environment where recovery of debts and enforcement of contractual rights has become more complex.
Alex adds, "Clients don’t just want legal answers, they want practical solutions that help them move forward. Disputes can often become emotional or unnecessarily complicated, so my approach is to simplify the process, explain options clearly and focus on outcomes. Attention to detail and communication are essential, particularly when balancing commercial and private client interests."
Alongside his legal practice, Alex is passionate about Sunderland’s wider cultural and sporting landscape. A lifelong Sunderland AFC season ticket holder, he also enjoys cricket, running, cycling, Formula 1 and live music. He is particularly interested in how legal services can support the city’s growing creative and sports-related industries, including music and esports.
Phil Moir, Director and Head of Dispute Resolution at Richard Reed Solicitors said the appointment strengthens both the team’s technical expertise and its client-focused approach.
"We are delighted to welcome Alex to Richard Reed Solicitors. His experience across a wide range of dispute resolution matters, particularly insolvency, enhances the services we can offer clients in-house and strengthens our ability to manage complex matters without the need for external support.
Equally important is his approach, at Richard Reed, we place real value on relationships, clear communication and commercial awareness. Alex shares those values and brings a practical, solutions-focused mindset that will be invaluable to our clients.
As a Sunderland native, he also understands the importance of being actively involved in the local business community. We are committed to supporting the continued growth of the city, and Alex will play an important role in strengthening our presence and connections across the region."
richardreed.co.uk
