Holmes & Hills Solicitors has once again been recognised by Chambers and Partners in their 2025 legal directory, marking another year of accolades for our specialist departments. Our Planning, Construction, and Commercial Property Departments have achieved remarkable rankings, showcasing our continued commitment to delivering specialist legal services across these areas of law.
Holmes & Hills’ Planning Law Department remains Band 2 ranked in the 2025 Chambers and Partners rankings. This is a significant testament to the expertise and reliability we have demonstrated over the years. The department is proud to maintain its status as one of the leading legal advisors on Planning Law in the East Anglian region.
Individual recognitions have also been awarded within the department. Steven Hopkins, Managing Partner and specialist in contentious planning law, remains in Band 2. Steven's extensive experience continues to receive high praise, with clients mentioning his ability to bridge the gap between planning law, property litigation, and dispute resolution. Clients highlight that “Steven is knowledgeable, prompt and a pleasure to work with,” and that he is “excellent in all fields, with very substantial knowledge, expertise and experience in planning".
New to Band 2 this year are both Jo Lilliott and Tom McPhie. Previously recognised as Star Associates, Jo and Tom have now achieved a Band 2 ranking, reflecting their increasing influence and consistent delivery of high-quality legal services in Section 106 agreements and broader planning matters. Jo’s clients continue to praise her as “an excellent all-round solicitor who is very knowledgeable and very quick,” with her negotiation skills described as “exceptional".
Holmes & Hills’ Construction Department has achieved a Band 2 ranking for the first time. This new recognition underscores the department’s growing presence and expertise in the construction landscape across the UK.
The department is also celebrating individual achievements. Samuel Bawden has been ranked in Band 3, with clients praising him for his ability to handle complex construction disputes and deliver practical, client-focused solutions. One client noted, “His level of service and knowledge in relation to construction law is second to none. He has a way of explaining legal matters which not only lets you understand, but also puts your mind at ease".
Additionally, Lawrence Pearce has been highlighted as "Up and Coming," reflecting his growing reputation in construction law. Clients commend him, saying, “He is straight to the point and deals with situations immediately. He is professional and efficient and just gets things done". Another client added, "Lawrence is clearly knowledgeable within his field" and praised his ability to explain complex matters in a way that "helps to put your mind at ease".
Holmes & Hills' Commercial Property Department, led by Rebecca Mason, has achieved a Band 4 ranking. Having been listed last year as having potential to be ranked, this leap forward highlights the department's progress and excellence to provide proactive and pragmatic advice and representation to the commercial property sector.
Two key members, Senior Associates, Chris Milner and Laura Gale, have been recognised as ‘Associates to Watch’. Their attention to detail and ability to offer clear, actionable advice has been instrumental to the department’s continued success. Chris has been praised by clients as "very capable and easy to deal with", with others adding that "he has proven to be a great asset to our firm" and that "he is great to work with, proactive, has a high level of communication and is easy to get hold of when required".
Similarly, Laura has earned high praise from clients who describe her as "absolutely brilliant", noting that she is "friendly, approachable, and really helpful with all legal matters". One client commented, "She provides excellent levels of service", further reflecting the department’s dedication to delivering exceptional results and client care.
The most recent recognition by Chambers and Partners rankings across multiple departments is a reflection of our commitment to excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction. We take immense pride in not only achieving recognition but, more importantly, in delivering exceptional results and service to our valued clients.
At Holmes & Hills Solicitors, we remain focused on providing outstanding legal expertise to our clients, whether in planning, construction, or commercial property. Should you require assistance, advice, or wish to learn more about how we can support your legal needs, our specialist departments are here to help.
Chambers and Partners, the prestigious independent legal research organisation and publisher, published its latest insight into the legal industry on 17th October 2024. Chambers and Partners undertake extensive research into law firms, interviewing peers within the legal industry, clients, and professional contacts with a view to identifying the leading specialists across several fields of legal practice.
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