Julie Gowland

Julie joined Birketts in December 2013 and is a Partner and Head of Licensing within the regulatory and corporate defence team.

Called to the Bar in 2002 and qualifying as a Solicitor in April 2006, Julie has extensive experience across the full range of criminal and regulatory law. She has represented clients in both the Magistrates’ and Crown Courts and regularly advises individuals and businesses during interviews under caution nationwide. Julie also has significant expertise handling investigations and prosecutions brought by key regulatory bodies, including the Health and Safety Executive, the Environment Agency and Trading Standards.

Julie has a long‑established specialism in the hospitality and leisure sectors, acting for pubs, bars, restaurants, hotels, visitor attractions, sports and entertainment venues, and multi‑site operators. She advises on all aspects of alcohol and entertainment licensing, including new and variation premises licence applications (both contested and uncontested), Temporary Event Notices and personal licence issues. Her friendly, pragmatic approach and strong negotiation skills enable her to manage complex applications smoothly, engaging effectively with responsible authorities and community stakeholders to secure successful outcomes.

Alongside her licensing expertise, Julie has substantial experience in health and safety law, supporting clients following serious workplace incidents. She regularly guides businesses through investigations by local authorities and the HSE, helps them navigate the regulatory landscape, and provides strategic advice on compliance, interviews under caution, enforcement notices and potential prosecutions. Her calm, practical guidance is particularly valued by clients facing high‑pressure, high‑stakes situations.

As a member of our food and beverages team, Julie brings over twenty years of experience advising individuals, national operators and companies across the food, drink, hospitality and leisure sectors. Her deep sector insight and regulatory expertise enable her to deliver clear, commercially focused advice tailored to the operational realities of these fast‑paced industries.

Experience & education

2008 – 2012 Belmores

2007 – 2008 Howes Percival

2003 – 2007 Clarion Solicitors

2001 – 2003 Irwin Mitchell

2001 Nottingham Law School – BVC

1998 – 2001 Sheffield Hallam University LLB