John has over a decade of experience in dealing with commercial property matters in both the public and private sectors including all aspects of specialist Landlord and Tenant advice – site acquisition, assembly, development funding and disposal. John is also one of the leading property lawyers working in the energy sector in Northern Ireland and advises utilities, developers and lenders with a particular focus on on-shore and off-shore wind. In addition, John advises many of the leading insolvency practitioners in the jurisdiction in relation to property insolvency matters.
Areas of Expertise
Real Estate/Energy, Infrastructure & Natural Resources
Experience Advising:
- Energy sector clients in relation to on-shore and off-shore wind;
- AD Plant Leases, gas pipelines and cross-jurisdictional sub-station and electricity transmission;
- London and International insolvency practitioner on acquisition management and disposal of property assets in relation to retailers in administration;
- Corporate clients on the property aspects of business disposals, portfolio management and contentious land issues;
- Renewable energy companies in relation to electric vehicle charging infrastructure. John is the leading solicitor in Northern Ireland in relation to the property aspects of this technology.
Market Recommendations
“The team is accessible.” Legal 500 2026
“John Tougher is personable, available, empathetic, solution-based.” Legal 500 2026
“He has a natural ability to engage with clients and build rapport to the extent that I trust and value his opinion and advice on all matters.” Chambers UK 2026
“John Tougher consistently demonstrates expertise in all property matters. His technical knowledge, paired with his client-focused approach, makes him an invaluable asset.” Chambers UK 2026
“John is a very knowledgeable lawyer. He has excellent communication skills.” Chambers UK 2026
Professional activities
John is the current secretary of the Northern Ireland Commercial Property Lawyers Association [ John is a member of Renewables NI].
Education
- Solicitor, Law Society of Northern Ireland 2011
- Certificate of Professional Legal Studies at The Institute of Professional Legal Studies 2011
- LLB Hons, Queens University, Belfast from 2008
John Tougher
Partner,
Real Estate
A&L Goodbody Northern Ireland LLP