Law firm Stephens Scown has confirmed itself as a regional heavyweight with another strong performance in the Chambers & Partners’ UK 2024 guide.
The employee-owned and B Corp Certified law firm has ranked in 14 sections of the guide, with top rankings in three sections across the firm’s family and corporate teams. It also has six of the firm’s solicitors receiving the highest Band 1 ranking and a total of 22 lawyers ranked individually, including a rise in rankings for Bill Wilkins in the family team and Giles Dunning, who jointly leads the firm’s corporate team.
The family law team – one of the largest in the south west – continues to excel as the only top-ranked family law team across both Cornwall and Devon. One referee said of the team: “They are exceptional. Stephens Scown has talent at all levels. The partners, trainees and newly qualified lawyers are all impressive. They provide a Rolls-Royce service.”
Along with newly Band 1 ranked Bill Wilkins, Andrew Barton, Sarah Atkinson, Jill Bruce and Mark Smith all retain their top ranking. Client testimonials were full of praise, including for Sarah Atkinson, who is noted for her expertise in financial remedy proceedings, as well as in pre-marital and post-marital agreements.
Meanwhile, the firm’s top-ranked corporate team is recognised for its “strong focus on acting for local SMEs and family-owned businesses, while also providing representation to several national companies”.
Specialist in agriculture law, Kate Theophilus, has also retained her Band 1 ranking in the agriculture and rural affairs section, with feedback citing her as a specialist in rural land and agricultural tenancy matters.
Having joined the firm in April 2023, regulatory and compliance lawyer, Steve Panton, is also ranked in the guide and comes recommended for his ability to advise clients from a number of sectors, including construction and energy.
Managing partner, Richard Baker, said: “With a strong focus on delivering an outstanding client experience, it is wonderful to receive such high praise in the latest Chambers guide. Every ranking is testament to the hard work put in by all our teams, who go above and beyond to offer each of our clients with a personal and individual service tailored to their needs.”
