A WORCESTER-based law firm is again on a legal high.

Following several accolades in the recent Legal 500 listings, High Street solicitors Harrison Clark Rickerbys has achieved a number of top standings in this year’s Chambers UK Guide’ ranking of the major law firms in the UK.

In the guide, produced annually by Chambers & Partners, HCR was ranked in the top tier of band one for family law, licensing, litigation, private client and corporate for Hereford, Worcester and the surrounding areas, contributing towards a total of ten band one rankings across the firm’s offices. In addition, ten of the firm’s lawyers were ranked as band one in their respective practice areas, including senior partner Jonathan Brew, who is the only band one family lawyer in the West Midlands outside central Birmingham.

The Chambers Guide descriptions of Harrison Clark Rickerbys’ Family law team includes: "Undoubtedly one of the market leaders in the West Midlands". Individual accolades also include Jonathan Brew, who is said to be a "market leader", praised for his unfailing diplomacy with client, and Kevin Harris-James, who has a reputation for representing high-profile clients, with a particular niche acting for Premier League footballers and their families. He is commended for his pragmatism and individual service.

Elizabeth Beatty, who heads the commercial litigation team in Worcester, is praised for her "approachable, friendly and honest" attitude and noted for the "excellent service" she provides.

Dawn Oliver – who spearheads the private client team at the firm – and her department are commended as "a heavyweight private client team which always puts its clients’ needs first.".

Heath Thomas – who leads the licensing team – is noted for his advocacy skills and is commended for being "very thorough and articulate’ when cross examining"..

Rod Thomas, Harrison Clark Rickerbys’ managing partner and head of the Worcester office said: “The recognition from Chambers & Partners across a number of practice areas is a firm endorsement of our City-quality legal expertise not only in Worcester, but nationwide. We are delighted that this year’s Guide has recognised those qualities most valued by clients in a number of different practice areas.”

The law firm's strong rankings in the Chambers Guide come hot on the heels of its success in The Legal 500 listing of the major law firms in England and Wales, which were published in October when it was recommended as a top-tier West Midlands law firm in four practice areas: corporate and commercial; crime, fraud and licensing (licensing); dispute resolution (commercial litigation); and private client (family). Across the firm, recommendations were also gained in 20 further practice areas, and for 40 of its individual lawyers.