Further enhancing its reputation as a leading South West law firm, Stephens Scown celebrates another exceptional year with the release of the Chambers & Partners’ UK 2026 guide.
The employee-owned and B Corp™ Certified firm is renowned for going above and beyond for its clients, people, and the communities in which it operates. With a larger office in Taunton and new office just opened in Bournemouth, the firm’s expansion following a record-breaking financial year has seen it ranked in 14 sections of the prestigious legal guide. The firm’s Family and Corporate teams are once again top ranked, with two solicitors receiving Band 1 rankings, and a total of 25 lawyers individually ranked.
One of the largest in the South West, Stephens Scown’s Family team remains ranked at Band 1. Across the team, Andrew Barton and Sarah Atkinson retain their Band 1 ranking, Mark Smith and Bill Wilkins are Band 2 ranked, while Lizzie Smith has moved from an ‘Up and Coming’ partner to Band 3 ranking. A happy client recently said of the team: “All advice given and work done was explained and gone through thoroughly, kindly and supportive, thank you.”
Also retaining the highest rank, the firm’s Corporate team has three Band 2 lawyers, including Laurie Trounce and Giles Dunning, who jointly lead the team, along with David Gebbie, who specialises in private company mergers and acquisitions, in particular advising owner managers planning and securing their exit or planning their succession in the most tax efficient way. A client recently commented on the service provided by the team: “Extremely happy with the help, guidance and hard work going into current matters and as always in a very professional manner.”
Increasing in ranking this year are the firm’s Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Property Litigation teams, which both move up from Band 3 ranking to Band 2 ranking. In addition, individuals newly ranked in this year’s guide include, Tom Graham in the firm’s Rural Real Estate team, who is included as a Star Associate, while Ben Jones from the firm’s Property Litigation team and Kate Westlake from the firm’s growing Social Housing team are once again recognised as Up and Coming in their fields.
Speaking about the latest results, Managing Partner Richard Baker said, “These great results reflect the hard work of everyone across the year, Stephens Scown’s best ever. Our growth and success are thanks to the team ensuring that we consistently provide outstanding client service and remain key trusted advisors for those we serve.
“The rankings are based on client feedback, so I’m proud to see the firm recognised and what we’ve accomplished across the last year as we continue to demonstrate that Stephens Scown is a great place to work and to do business.”
With over 350 employees, including nearly 70 partners in offices strategically located in Truro, Exeter, Taunton, and Bournemouth, the firm is ideally placed to serve the greater South West region. For more information visit www.stephens-scown.co.uk