Property Litigation Association—Dellah Gilbert

Dellah Gilbert, head of real estate disputes at Maples Teesdale, has been appointed as the new chair of the Property Litigation Association (PLA), as Hogan Lovells’ Mathew Ditchburn steps down from the role having completed his one-year term.

As a members’ organisation for professionals specialising in all aspects of commercial, residential and agricultural property law, the PLA plays an important role in campaigning for improvements in property law and the court service, whilst offering its members opportunities for education, training and networking as well as resources to support wellbeing.

Dellah Gilbert began her legal career at Hogan Lovells in 1991, where she was as a solicitor and then of counsel to the firm until 2015 when she became partner at Maples Teesdale. She is also currently co-head of diversity and inclusion at her current practice.

As chair of the PLA, Dellah will be supported by Mark Reading, partner in real estate dispute resolution at Mishcon de Reya, who will serve as the organisation’s new vice chair.

Both Dellah and Mark have been heavily involved in work of the PLA for a number of years – most recently with Dellah as vice chair and honorary secretary and Mark as chair of the organisation’s website & marketing committee.

Speaking about her new role as Chair of the Property Litigation Association, Dellah Gilbert said: 'I’m delighted to take up the baton as Chair of one of the most influential organisations in the field of property law. As market and economic conditions become increasingly challenging, I believe we’ll see property litigators stepping up and taking an ever more prominent position in supporting the industry during a difficult period. The PLA provides a fantastic forum for litigators to come together and share their knowledge and experiences – which is particularly beneficial during times of uncertainty and change. The PLA has made some impressive achievements under Mathew’s leadership and I look forward to continuing to drive the organisation’s important work forward.'

Mathew Ditchburn, outgoing chair of the Property Litigation Association, said: 'It’s the commitment of Dellah, Mark and all the other busy property litigators who voluntarily give up their time that ensures the PLA makes such a vital contribution to the property industry and wider legal landscape. Having worked closely with both Dellah and Mark during my time as Chair, I know they’ll bring plenty of energy and dedication to the role and I wish them all the very best for the year ahead.'