Eversheds increases its share of the market

Sep 26 2008 The Journal

EVERSHEDS’ international capabilities and sector expertise have helped increase its market share so the firm remains a key player in the North East legal market.

Adrian Stanley, senior partner of the Newcastle office, said: “Eversheds is about combining local knowledge with national and international experience. We occupy a unique space in the legal market as business advisors. Our extensive networks, depth of knowledge, expertise and resources offer much more than law to our clients.”

This year’s Legal 500 directory praises Eversheds’ Newcastle office for excellent service levels and leading expertise in key practice areas.

The corporate and commercial teams are attracting instructions from significant companies doing business in the region. The 22-strong legal team, which includes partners Alan Fletcher and Ruth Connorton, has handled more than 30 deals totalling in excess of £800m this year. In fact, corporate fee income for international work rose by almost 50% over the last 18 months.

But it is not just Eversheds’ international capabilities that the Legal 500 highlights. The firm is also ranked in the top two tiers for 80% of its services.

Eversheds has signalled its intention to grow in this region by appointing Ian Gilthorpe as North East business development partner. Ian is a well-known industry figure with a wide network of contacts and vast experience of working in the North East for more than 30 years.

The healthcare team in Newcastle was recently named Law Firm of the Year by HealthInvestor correct.magazine. The report praises Bill Gilliam for his strong healthcare credentials, and for providing expert advice which is appropriate and practical. His team were recently appointed by NHS Purchasing & Supply Agency and to the health and safety and litigation panel for Bupa.

One of the strengths of the North East region in recent years has been its success in developing public infrastructure and housing. Recently- appointed Mitch Brown leads the firm’s affordable housing initiative nationally and will be working alongside the commercial property team. Partners Adrian Stanley and Claire Morgan specialise in urban regeneration schemes.

Also highlighted in the report was Andrew Nunn, head of the banking and finance team in Newcastle. The team completed 150 transactions worth more than £3bn and Eversheds is the only firm officially panelled to every bank with an office in the North East.

The employment team at Eversheds’ Newcastle is a clear market favourite, with clients confident of a commercially astute and analytical approach. Team leader Simon Loy and partner Shirley Wright act for a list of heavyweight private and public-sector clients including Sunderland City Council, NHS trusts, Nissan and Tarmac.

The firm’s international presence is a major selling point with shipping law clients.

Steve Mackin leads the team and provides sound advice in the context of their clients’ needs, with an enviable client list including UK P&I and FD&D, and Bibby Line. In addition, Eversheds’ international capabilities and reputation have secured significant overseas companies doing business in the region.

Adrian Stanley concluded: “Despite challenging market conditions, we have a real opportunity to grow our market share in the North East. Signing the best people, like Ian and Mitch, shows our commitment to growing the business in Newcastle.”