An East Lancashire law firm has landed a spot in a leading independent guide to the UK’s top legal firms and solicitors.

Woodcocks Haworth and Nuttall Solicitors (WHN) has been recognised in the Legal 500, known in the industry as the definitive guide to lawyers.

WHN, which has eight offices across Lancashire and Greater Manchester, saw two of its teams secure a sought-after place in the 2022 edition of Legal 500, with the firm ranking in the North West region for both commercial litigation, and corporate and commercial law.

The publication analyses law firms in over 150 jurisdictions from across the world, and only awards legal professionals who have completed a rigorous benchmarking process including interviews, as well as feedback from both clients and professional peers.

Lancashire Telegraph: CEO Michael Shroot and MD Simon BrownCEO Michael Shroot and MD Simon Brown

WHN’s commercial litigation specialists Michael Shroot, Daniel Long, and Sara Beaumont were cited in the rankings, praised for their work on a number of cases including the representation of Atos in a claim against Fylde Borough Council, and representing a group of residents in a property dispute heard in the Upper Tribunal.

Meanwhile Paul Matthews from WHN’s corporate and commercial team was highlighted for his work advising regional family, owner-managed businesses and SMEs.

He was singled out for his work in advising Sugden Limited on the purchase of VanderPol Waffles.

CEO of WHN Solicitors, Michael Shroot, said: “A huge thank you to our clients and other professional contacts who took the time and trouble to provide their feedback to the Legal 500 researchers and share their stories of how our legal specialists have made a difference.

“Given how tough 2020 was, the depth of our relationships with our clients was more important than ever as we helped them to navigate through unprecedented times.

"Their contribution to the research process illustrates the value our clients place on our relationships with them, endorses our legal capabilities and commitment to helping and supporting our clients holistically.

"Without these endorsements, the rankings would not be possible, so we are incredibly grateful.”

WHN Solicitors employs 110 staff across Lancashire and Greater Manchester and has offices in Accrington, Bacup, Bury, Blackburn, Clitheroe, Haslingden, Great Harwood and Rawtenstall.

It advises businesses, individuals and families on a full range of legal matters.

Lancashire Telegraph: CEO Michael ShrootCEO Michael Shroot

Over the past year, WHN has continued to grow, with multiple significant hires bolstering the firm’s expertise in areas including commercial litigation, contentious probate and residential conveyancing.

Mr Shroot added: “While the Legal 500 has singled out some specific individuals, this accolade is for the entire WHN family.

“During a difficult 18 months, our people have shown resilience and a determination to be there for their clients and colleagues.

"To land a highly sought-after place in such a coveted guide has given everyone across the firm a real boost.”

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