Small firm with a high-quality reputation

Sep 26 2003 By The Journal

The name of Samuel Phillips & Co continues to figure prominently in this year's Legal 500. Well-known in Newcastle city centre since 1920, the firm boasts a great reputation for expertise and service in its specialist areas.

"Our aim is to offer legal excellence and outstanding personal service," says senior partner Barry Speker.

"It is rewarding that the Legal 500 has recognised our prominence in many areas of legal work, against larger - and more expensive - legal firms.

"We have strengthened our position, especially in clinical negligence, employment and family work as well as building up our commercial property department."

One highlight is in employment law where the Legal 500 describes Samuel Phillips & Co as "a small firm with a high-quality reputation".

Robert Gibson heads the employment unit and is again highly recommended.

Said Barry: "This year we have introduced our own Employment Protection Scheme for employers.

Following an employment audit which we undertake, members of the scheme can obtain full insurance against all tribunal claims and awards.

It is an excellent scheme which we rate as the best in the market."

The unit also undertakes a wide variety of training on employment law and practice.

The Clinical Negligence Department has been moved up to the Legal 500's top rating.

It is led by partners Barry Speker and Rod Findlay, both members of the Law Society's specialist Clinical Negligence Panel.

With specialist solicitors Alison Brockhurst and Gillian Muir, the department is the strongest in Newcastle and this year has had several £1m-plus successes.

"We aim to continue to progress the development of the department," commented Rod Findlay. "Cases are recommended to us from all over the country."

Family law has long been a major part of the firm's business. This year the family department is rated in the top three for the North-East.

Department head Jennifer Goldstein along with Barry Speker are specially recommended. "We act in an increasing number of high value and complex divorce cases," says Jennifer Goldstein.

"Our experience in untangling pensions issues is becoming especially significant."

The Legal 500 also gives the firm impressive references in personal injury, public sector and crime, where Stuart Grant is referred to as having "a strong reputation".

The property department has also been strengthened with Wendy Gurr, commercial property specialist, joining Stephen Doberman and Lindsey Charlton.

Legal work for GP practices is a notable speciality.

Overall the firm is continuing to progress and is more than holding its own against local heavyweights.