Richard Cole
Partner
Dispute Resolution
E: Richard.Cole@kingsley-wood.com
Richard Cole is an accomplished Solicitor who qualified in 2006 and has specialised in insolvency and company law since 2001. With over two decades of hands-on experience, Richard has developed a unique “gamekeeper turned poacher” perspective, having begun his career investigating company misconduct for the Insolvency Service before transitioning to defending directors and advising businesses. As a Consultant Solicitor since 2019, Richard has built a wide professional network and earned a reputation for being pragmatic, capable, and unwavering in his commitment to client success. His practice combines technical precision with practical judgment, making him a trusted adviser to clients navigating complex insolvency and commercial matters.
about
Richard’s career began with the Secretary of State for Business (Insolvency Service), where he investigated failed companies and assessed misconduct for potential director disqualification proceedings. This foundation provided him with deep insight into how insolvency cases are pursued — an experience that now gives him an edge when defending directors under investigation. Over the years, he has worked in niche insolvency practices and helped establish specialist departments within regional firms. Richard’s clients and professional referrers describe him as straightforward, pragmatic, and client-focused, always prioritising results while maintaining transparency and integrity.
Recent Matters
my work
Richard’s work spans the full breadth of insolvency, company law, and commercial litigation. He specialises in director disqualification defence, acting for directors facing allegations of wrongful trading, preferences, and other antecedent transactions. His experience includes both contentious and non-contentious insolvency work, bankruptcy petitions, winding-up proceedings, and complex Companies Act litigation. Richard has successfully represented clients in high-value matters involving multi-million-pound claims, director investigations, and restructuring disputes. He has also advised administrators, trustees, creditors, and company directors on risk, liability, and recovery strategies in insolvency contexts, frequently achieving favourable settlements in challenging, high-pressure circumstances.
Interest
about me
Originally from Watford, Richard is a loyal — if sometimes long-suffering — Watford FC supporter. He has a passion for travel and has visited more than thirty European capitals, including a memorable journey through the Balkans. His adventures have also taken him to New Zealand, the United States, and Poland, reflecting his love for discovering new cultures and experiences. Outside of law, Richard enjoys the independence and challenge of running his own business as a consultant solicitor, combining his entrepreneurial spirit with his commitment to providing clients with tailored, high-quality legal advice.
Awards & Experience
my expertise
Richard holds a Law Degree (2000) and completed the Legal Practice Course (2001) before qualifying as a Solicitor in 2006. His extensive experience of over 23 years in insolvency law and practice has been complemented by continuous professional development through memberships in the Association of Business Recovery Professionals (R3) and the Insolvency Lawyers Association. These affiliations reflect his ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards and staying at the forefront of legal and procedural developments within the insolvency field.
