After another record-breaking year for the employee-owned, B Corp™ Certified law firm, there’s more good news to celebrate as several of the firm’s Partners have been recognised in this year’s Chambers and Partners’ High Net Worth Guide.
Published after a year of extensive research, the new Chambers High Net Worth (HNW) Guide ranks the leading and most dedicated lawyers and law firms for international private wealth. Feedback is sourced from clients and other specialist industry professionals, enabling clients to find reputable and trustworthy professionals with expertise in handling the unique and often complex needs of high-net-worth individuals.
Recently recognised as a Preeminent Lawyer in Doyles’ 2025 guide to Leading Family & Divorce Lawyers in the South West, and included in the 2025 Citywealth Leaders List, Andrew Barton, Partner and Head of the firm’s Family team, has debuted in the UK-wide rankings. The Family Finance team is also featured again after making the list for the first time in 2024.
Speaking about his placement and that of the team, Andrew said, “It’s terrific to see the team again feature in this year’s guide and building on another outstanding year. The work that we do on complex and high-value divorce cases is rightly valued by our clients. Knowing that the lists are based on client testimonies makes the result all the more special.
“I’m honoured to be named on the list for the first time. The work being done in the team is having real national, and international impact. Making sure that we are working with a range of partners in order to deliver the best possible service to our clients, their praise for our work reflects the efforts we put in to achieving the desired outcomes for our clients. The ranking once again demonstrates that we are a force not only in the South West, but across the country and beyond.”
Client comments about Andrew included: “Andrew Barton is one of the best in the South West. He is softly spoken, but aggressive when needs to be. He always makes sure cases are brilliantly prepared and presented.”
A second testimonial said, “Andrew Barton is unflappable, even in the most difficult of cases. His client care is second to none.”
While another added, “Andrew Barton has really impressed me. His witness statements are a work of genius.”
Sarah Atkinson, Partner and head of the Family Finance team, keeps her place having made her inaugural appearance on the list last year. Clients have said of Sarah, “For high-value divorce in Cornwall, you go to Sarah. She understands the complexities that come from high-value cases.”
Another testimonial said, “Sarah Atkinson has an amazing eye for detail. She is extremely thorough, and she will challenge clients and counsel where appropriate.”
It was also noted that, “Sarah Atkinson has excellent insight, knowledge and personal approach.”
A Partner in the firm’s Private Client team, Phil Reed has retained his Band 1 status in the Cornwall region, while fellow Partner in the team Tom Biddick, keeps his Band 2 ranking for Exeter, receiving praise for his work in advising high net worth clients on a broad range of wills, estate administration, and tax planning matters.
Comments received for the team included a client saying, “Tom is a good lawyer who knows his stuff.”
Another Partner maintaining his place on the list is James Burrows, head of the Inheritance and Trust Disputes team at Stephens Scown, who has been ranked in Band 2 for the South West. Mainly representing individuals in relation to inheritance and trusts disputes, one client said, “James is a pleasure to work with and leads an excellent team.”
Another added, “James is always very well prepared.”
Commenting on the firm’s continued success, Managing Partner Richard Baker said, “It’s gratifying to see recognition for the outstanding work done by our Inheritance and Trust Disputes, Private Client, and Family specialists in what are often complex areas of law.
“What makes them extra special is that rankings are based on direct client feedback, and often in relation to matters that can be incredibly stressful and emotional. To see so many of our team featured prominently – and to see Andrew Barton recognised in this prestigious guide for the first time – is testament to the support and expertise provided to our clients.”