Laura is a Legal Director in our Property Litigation department and leads the firm’s Home Ownership Disputes and TOLATA practice.
Specialising in applications under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA), Laura’s work focuses on resolving trusts of land disputes and family-owned property / cohabitation disputes – frequently in the shadow of relationship breakdown.
Her expertise includes the establishment and quantification of beneficial interests in property under TOLATA, whether these interests arise from express, constructive, or resulting trusts, and whether the property is solely or jointly owned. Laura is also frequently called upon to advise property owners on their roles as trustee, including handling order for sale applications and buy-outs.
Laura’s work encompasses a wide range of related equitable principles, such as proprietary estoppel, equitable accounting, fraud, undue influence, illegality, mistake, entitlement to funds in joint bank accounts, and the equity of exoneration.
Recognised as a leader in her field, Laura has a proven track record of resolving complex equitable and property trust disputes. She is an effective negotiator with extensive experience in round-table discussions and mediation.
Recent work highlights
Acting for a client in setting aside fraudulent declarations of trust prepared by their ex-partner, which falsely claimed a 50% share in their property. Successfully overturned the documents at trial and secured full indemnity costs for the client.
Acting for a third-party in divorce proceedings, securing recognition of substantial financial contributions made to their daughter and son-in-law’s property, despite a lack of formal documentation. Achieved a full equity repayment and a legal costs award in the client’s favour.
Representing one of three siblings in a dispute over commercial premises after a co-owner’s death, where the Estate sought an open market sale. Guided the client through complex valuation issues, including contamination and redevelopment potential, to secure a successful buy-out at mediation. Enabled the client to retain ownership and continue operating their business.
Acting for a client asserting a beneficial interest in their ex-partner’s property, registered in their ex-partner’s sole name, following our client’s financial contributions to it. Secured a restriction on the Land Registry title to protect the client’s claim, overcoming objections. Achieved a favourable resolution at the First-tier Tribunal, with the client receiving a substantial lump sum payment.
Areas of Expertise
Accreditations
Legal 500 [UK 2025]
Leading Associate
Property Litigation Association
Member
Laura Tanguay combines a toughness with being extremely pleasant to work with. She brings a rigorous approach to everything she does.
Legal 500 [UK 2025]