“Building long lasting relationships of trust and confidence with clients over many years is one of the most satisfying aspects of my life as an agricultural lawyer.”

Hamish has a farming background and works exclusively in the agricultural and rural sector, with a particular interest in agricultural tenancy law.

He advises on the purchase and sale of agricultural land; the formation, structure and winding up of agricultural businesses; renewable energy projects; and agricultural subsidy matters. He also has detailed experience of the relinquishment process applying to secure agricultural tenancies, and has dealt with many private and statutory relinquishments for value. He also frequently appears in the Scottish Land Court on behalf of both agricultural landlords and tenants.

He is accredited by the Law Society of Scotland as a Specialist in Agricultural Law; is a member of the Agricultural Law Association and the Scottish Agricultural Arbiters and Valuers Association, and is an invited member of the NFUS Legal and Technical Committee. He writes frequently for the press on agricultural law topics and is a regular speaker at seminars to both professional and lay audiences.

Areas of practice include:

Sector experience includes:

Admitted

1985: Scotland

Relevant experience

The first reported decision on the technical requirements of an amnesty notice for improvements.
A case concerning whether or not an agricultural tenancy existed.
A case concerning whether a landlord was entitled to resume farm cottages and object to an agricultural improvement.

“Hamish Lean is a ‘turn-to man’. His advice is clear, to the point, and the aim is always to find a solution.“

Legal 500 (2024)

Further testimonials

“Hamish Lean and his team should be warmly rewarded for their service. They are easy to locate at all times without one ever feeling they are being troubled by any queries. Great group to work with.”

Legal 500 (2021)

“Hamish is a well-established practitioner; very capable and respected.”

Chambers (2024)

“Hamish is a very bright and effective operator.”

Chambers (2024)

“Hamish is nimble on his feet and commercially astute.”

Chambers (2023)

“Hamish is definitely a leader in agricultural tenancy work. He has a lot of experience in that and his knowledge is one of the best in the country.”

Chambers (2022)

“Hamish’s main strength is his wealth of experience and knowledge in agricultural law and succession, and his excellent method of presentation, making a complicated subject easy to follow.”

Chambers (2021)