Stephens Scown, a leading South West law firm, has announced that four of its Partners have been ranked in the latest annual Chambers and Partners’ High Net Worth Guide. The guide recognises their private wealth expertise and the positive impact that they and the wider teams have on their clients.
Following 12 months of extensive research, the Chambers High Net Worth Guide has released its annual results. Whilst the guide ranks the leading and most dedicated lawyers and law firms for international private wealth, what makes it unique is that results are based on feedback from clients and other specialist industry professionals.
Making her debut in the UK-wide Family / Matrimonial Finance rankings is Sarah Atkinson, Partner in the Family team and head of the firm’s specialist Family Finance team, which has also picked up a new Band 4 ranking for their work handling complex and high-value financial remedy work.
Retaining his Band 1 status for Cornwall is Phil Reed, Partner in the Private Client team, with Tom Biddick, also Partner in the team maintaining his Band 2 status in the Exeter and Surrounds region. Also retaining his Band 2 status in the South West region is James Burrows, Partner and head of the firm’s Inheritance and Trust Disputes team.
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 is testament to the support and expertise provided to our clients.”
Speaking about her new ranking and that of the team, Sarah said, “I am delighted that the team has been recognised in the Chambers guide this year – it’s great that our work on high value and complex divorce cases has been recognised by our High Net Worth clients, peers in other law firms nationally and specialist Counsel we work with.
“It is also a privilege to be personally recognised. As a team and group of partners, our work is increasingly national and international, and our opposing solicitors are often those in city or national firms. We stay up to date on the latest legal and technological developments and work with top class accountants, financial advisors, actuaries, and barristers to give our clients the best advice and service. To know that they acknowledge our expertise as quality advisors to High Net Worth individuals going through divorce or separation is testament to all the hard work carried out by the team on a daily basis. This accolade sets us apart in the South West, which continues to be our focus, recognising our increasingly national and international practice.”
Meanwhile, Tom Biddick, who now heads up the firm’s Private Client team, was commended for his work in advising high net worth clients on a broad range of wills, estate administration, and tax planning matters.
In addition, James Burrows has also ranked for a second year in the South West region, acting principally for individuals in relation to inheritance and trusts disputes.