A modern outlook coupled with fast-growing client base

Sep 26 2003 By The Journal

When Prime Minister Tony Blair opened the new Darlington offices of Blackett Hart & Pratt Solicitors almost a year ago, he observed that it was the first time he had been asked to officiate by a legal firm.

It was a defining moment for a firm that has preferred not to run with the crowd, but to do things a little bit differently.

This has included relocating from traditional solicitors' offices to modern, purpose-built premises, and invigorating the profession locally with a modern outlook and award-winning use of IT.

The company has consistently expanded both the scale and the scope of services provided to a fast-growing client base.

On September 1, Blackett Hart & Pratt merged with Winskell & Winskell, a long-established and respected practice in Newcastle.

It was the third significant merger in five years, further strengthening its presence in the North of the region.

Today, Blackett Hart & Pratt's status as a multi-disciplinary law firm takes another step forward as it receives a number of recommendations in Legal 500.

The report recognises that the firm, with principal offices in Newcastle, Durham and Darlington, has "a solid network throughout the region" and highlights "good practices in commercial, property, private client and insurance."

The Legal 500 also noted the firm's strength in depth at all offices.

In order to meet the legal needs of business, Blackett Hart & Pratt has developed four business teams, incorporating commercial property, business and company law, employment and business dispute advice, and town and country planning.

Gary Copeland and Neil Hilton are the major corporate specialists in the business and company law team.

Blackett Hart & Pratt's commercial and agricultural property team, headed by Simon Robinson, has consistently featured in a high ranking position in the Legal 500.

The team provides advice and guidance on all areas of commercial property.

Through a four-strong planning and design team of chartered town planners and architectural designers, it also offers commercial, agricultural and residential landowners and developers expertise in respect of potential developments and preparation of planning applications.

In respect of the personal injury team, partner Blaine Ward was "highly recommended" in Legal 500.

Based largely in Newcastle, the team acts for both claimants and defendants in a wide range of matters.

In particular, it has an established reputation for multi-party litigation.

Blackett Hart & Pratt takes great pride in its accessible and personable approach.

It will be the only law firm among the 100-plus exhibitors at Business North-East, at the Telewest Arena, on October 1 and 2.

You can meet them on Stand 61.