A law firm has been recognised by The Legal 500 as one of the top firms in the UK for the third year running with a record eight individuals singled out for their work.

As the leading guide to law firms, The Legal 500 ranked Blanchards Bailey amongst the best in the areas of commercial litigation, employment, agriculture and estates, personal tax, trusts and probate in the UK. The decision was made following intensive and impartial examination of its work, and, ultimately, client references provided the basis for recognising the firm as one of the elite.

The firm’s private client offering has been ranked in the third tier of the listings, placing it as the highest ranked team in rural Dorset.

In addition to the firm’s recognition, eight of its team have been specifically recommended by The Legal 500 for their personal expertise; double 2016’s figure of four.

The personal tax, trusts and probate team triumphed for Blanchards Bailey, with four team members Jerome Dodge, Ian Campbell, Linda Hardy and Sue Edwards all specifically recommended for their outstanding skills. Jerome, head of private client was also recognised for his expertise in wills and estate planning being noted as having ‘excellent specialist knowledge on trust and related tax issues’ and is praised for his ability ‘to clearly communicate key points'.”

Paul Dunlop, head of litigation and disputes, is recognised for excellence in three areas of law; commercial litigation, agriculture and estates and employment, whilst Sarah Heath, head of commercial services who is a specialist in commercial and agricultural property, is also a key name of note who is specifically recommended.

Edward O’Brien, a solicitor in litigation and employment is recognised in two categories and is described as ‘very thorough, diligent and has good legal instincts’.

Lucy Mignot, a solicitor in litigation and disputes also received praise for her work in the commercial litigation team.

Alan Horne, chief executive, said: “This recognition by The Legal 500 demonstrates that although based in Dorset we compete with and beat many of the large national players in the industry and across the UK.

"It is also important to note the depth of quality at Blanchards Bailey; the team members throughout the business are recognised as delivering high quality legal advice and service to clients.”

Sarah Heath, head of commercial services, added: “Being recognised in the latest listings from The Legal 500 and having so many individuals named for their work clearly demonstrates we are offering legal advice of the highest quality and clients want people to know it. The passion and value our team provides is keeping our clients returning time after time and that’s a testament to the service and quality of advice that they receive.”