Freeths appointed to national legal framework led by University of Essex

Leading law firm Freeths has been appointed to a new national legal services framework, hosted by the University of Essex and developed in partnership with contract managers Dukefield Procurement.

Following a competitive tender process, Freeths was selected as one of the trusted legal providers across multiple lots. The framework provides education and public sector organisations across the UK with streamlined access to high-quality, pre-approved legal support. It’s open to a wide range of bodies, including universities, schools, colleges, NHS organisations, local authorities, central government departments, emergency services, housing providers, and registered charities.

It offers flexible procurement routes and comprehensive legal coverage across seven specialist lots – from employment and property law to dispute resolution and education-specific legal services.

This appointment is a reflection of the firm’s depth of expertise and its long-standing commitment to public sector and education clients and the wider community. As the UK’s largest B Corp law firm, Freeths remains committed to driving positive impact through its work with purpose-led organisations.

Partner Nathan Holden and Director Frank Suttie have been named as the framework leads for Freeths.

Commenting on the appointment, Frank Suttie said: “We’re delighted to have been appointed to this important framework, which will enable the firm to continue supporting public sector organisations and education providers with clear, commercially focused legal advice. Freeths has a strong, proven track record in this space, as well as with other legal framework appointments, and we look forward to working with Dukefield to deliver high-quality legal services clients across the sectors.”

A leading 150 strong Freeths team works across the public sector with a focus on local authorities (including combined authorities) and education providers, registered providers and health, including NHS trusts.