Bristol’s top lawyers have been recognised in the annual Chambers guide – often viewed as the sector’s ‘bible’ and a reference tool for businesses buying in legal services.
The best firms and individual lawyers across more than 70 different practice areas are highlighted in the publication which is based on the research of 140 full-time editors and researchers, interviews and information supplied by firms – making it the most in-depth review of the profession available. 
Bristol’s top firms emerge strongly with Burges Salmon receiving 19 top rank listings followed by TLT with 18. Burges Salmon received 54 individual rankings with its rival ‘big two’ firm Osborne Clarke having 41.
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TLT achieved its top tier ratings (in the Bristol and surroundings section) in the areas of banking litigation, employment, family/matrimonial, information technology, licensing, real estate litigation, restructuring/insolvency and social housing.
The firm is ranked top tier in a new National Leaders category introduced by Chambers, recognising the firm’s strength in banking litigation, licensing and real estate litigation.
Some 43 individual TLT lawyers are recognised as 'leaders in their field'. Newly ranked are Chris Crighton – pensions (Bristol and surrounds), Natalie Drew – family/matrimonial (Bristol and surrounds) and Clare Hughes – consumer finance (UK-wide)
TLT managing partner David Pester said: “Our approach is to provide excellent client service coupled with deep expertise and industry insight. It's fantastic to have our approach verified and supported by an independent guide to the sector.”
Thrings’ Bristol office achieved rankings for construction, real estate, employment, intellectual property, planning, environmental and restructuring/insolvency.
Nine solicitors were also identified as being leaders in the respective fields.
Head of the South West real estate practice, Colin Stratton, was named as a notable practitioner for his work with residential developers on strategic land transactions and negotiating promotion agreements. Eric Livingstone and Steve McCombe were highlighted for their work in construction law and with clients including Bristol Water, NatWest, Wessex Water and Clydesdale Bank, the team advise on contentious and non-contentious matters in the energy, renewables, leisure and healthcare sectors.
In the restructuring and insolvency team, Mark Cullingford and Melissa George are recognised as notable practitioners, while Andy Braithwaite, whose specialism includes assisting clients with a variety of issues ranging from sponsorship for sports team to endorsement agreements, is described as ‘someone who is very commercial, and takes the time to get to know your brand and what you’re trying to do with it.’
Russell Reeves, who in Chambers 2013 was noted as ‘one to watch,’ received recognition for his specialisms in agriculture and regulatory law, and is noted for his handling of high-value farm partnership disputes. Employment lawyer Kerrie Hunt is described as ‘highly regarded’ and ‘very thorough’. Alex Madden was identified as a leader in his field for his work in the environment and planning sectors.
Mr Stratton said: “Chambers is one of the most prestigious legal directories in the UK, as well as across the globe. For so many of our talented lawyers to feature in this year’s edition is excellent news and well-deserved recognition of the talent, skill and dedication of our colleagues.”
To read the full Chambers UK editorial content, please visit: www.chambersandpartners.com/UK
