Stone King Praised In Legal Industry Bible
23rd January 2012
We have received glowing recognition for the high quality of our legal work in the 2012 edition of the industry bible Chambers UK.The influential annual guide identifies the country's leading solicitors and law firms through in-depth interviews with thousands of clients and industry insiders.
Stone King's expertise and professionalism has been commended across an impressive eight practice areas with 13 of our lawyers identified as experts in their field.
Marketing Director Nick Birkett commented "We are delighted that we have been recognised in this important industry guide for the top quality legal advice we offer to both organisations and individuals.
"The fact that our lawyers have been praised by their peers and clients across so many practice areas is strong recognition of their professionalism and dedication to doing a first-class job."
The 2012 edition of Chambers UK says of Stone King:
Charities:
Sources say: "The firm is first-rate, you can't get better." Another adds: "I can't praise them enough for their client service." Star practitioner Michael King is recognised as a leading light in the sector for his high quality work. Ann Phillips is "outstanding, hugely knowledgeable, pleasant, easy to deal with" and "gives measured and practical advice."
Stephen Ravenscroft has been acting in the establishment of numerous new Academy schools in the past year, projects involving the negotiation of a charitable funding agreement with the Department of Education.
Education: Institutions (Schools)
This team is considered a market leader for its expert advice to both independent and maintained schools. "It provides a less formulaic and more tailored approach than others in the sector," says one source. Michael King is head of the charity and education group and he is well recognised for his long-standing commitment to education.
The "absolutely excellent" Richard Gold is a consultant at the firm with over 30 years' experience in the sector. Roger Inman specialises in school governance, reorganisation, admissions and pupil/parent issues. Sources praise him for "providing reliable and measured advice that considers the wider implications of a legal issue and not just the legal technicalities."
Employment
This firm has particular strength in the education and transport sectors and has been advising on the conversion of schools to academy status. Peter Woodhouse is an experienced tribunal advocate with particular expertise in the transport sector.
Family/Matrimonial
This team includes three qualified mediators and four collaborative lawyers, making it a favourite with clients looking to settle cases outside of court. It has recently been instructed in high-value ancillary relief and international child abduction matters, among others, and remains highly regarded for its expertise in care proceedings. As part of a larger firm that offers expertise in all areas of private client work, the group is able to offer clients a full and integrated service. John Brownrigg heads the family law and mediation team. Clients applaud his dedication to settling cases in a civil and pleasant way, with one saying: "He tried ADR and to do things in the calmest way. He was also pleasant and civil with the other side which really helped. I feel very lucky to have found him."
Private Client
This department is noted for its nous in probate, wills, trust administration and creation. The firm also has a dedicated elderly services team, and niche expertise in inheritance tax 'deathbed' planning and Stamp Duty Land Tax mitigation. Alison Allen "inspires confidence and explains tricky legal points in plain English". She has a broad practice in general private client services and is also expert in care for the elderly and capacity issues. Colleague Rachel Curtis has a similar practice, and speaks widely on older client and wealth management matters.
Real Estate
This team has earned the admiration of clients thanks to its constant availability and a "helpful, knowledgeable and responsive attitude" to meeting their needs. It commands a strong following in several key sectors including charities, education and leisure, advising clients in these fields on property transactions and developments.
Lead partner Hugh Pearce comes highly recommended for his finely tuned advice on projects involving education and charitable clients.
Transport
Peter Woodhouse of Stone King LLP represents clients in court and public inquiry proceedings relating to matters such as overloading and drivers' hours. These clients include bus and coach companies, hauliers and other organisations active in the sector.
Crime
This team handles a range of significant crime and fraud cases. Sources describe the service as "proactively helpful and thoroughly professional." Andrew Banks heads up the department, and sources are highly enthusiastic about his communication skills: "He clarified and helped to set expectations in a way that was very calming and personally beneficial."
For further information, please contact Nick Birkett, Director of Marketing, on Telephone: 01225 324428 or Email: nb@stoneking.co.uk
