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Regional review

This chapter encompasses three key markets in the North: Newcastle, the dominant economic and commercial hub and home to all five of the regional heavyweight law firms; Cumbria, with Carlisle as a focus; and the Tees Valley.

The legal market in Newcastle is undergoing a sea change caused by a combination of lateral hires and the ongoing fallout from the recession. With the heavy public sector focus in the North of England, further turbulence is expected in light of the coalition government’s budget cuts. 2010 saw the departure of several personal injury insurance firms from the region, an increasing volume of employment law work, and fewer insolvency-related mandates than anticipated. The renewable energy sector continues to provide growth opportunities.

Dickinson Dees LLP is a ‘top-class outfit’ and is recognised as housing the region’s leading corporate and commercial practice, among others. Its pensions and wealth management practice groups also had a particularly impressive year. The firm has notably decided to move away from family and personal injury work.

Ward Hadaway continues to develop its offering in Leeds and Manchester, and maintains its strong reputation in the market as an ‘extremely competent, trustworthy firm with professional and personable staff’.

Eversheds LLP’s leading PFI, shipping and real estate groups were extremely busy through the year, with the latter team having a foothold in the ports sector. Clients can also draw on the firm’s Leeds-based expertise, in areas such as EU and competition, pensions and corporate tax.

Watson Burton LLP has undergone a substantial restructuring process following its decision to refocus its business model. It saw the departure of key partners such as Rob Langley, Keith Hately, Andrew Cawkwell, Simon Scougall and Paul McGowan.

Muckle LLP’s investment in several key practitioners has bolstered its visibility in areas such as construction, insolvency and private client.

Sintons LLP is an increasingly strong contender in the market, and has a ‘very long-established partnership with a good reputation’.

Other notable firms include Mincoff Solicitors LLP, in a broad range of areas including leisure and licensing; and Jacksons Law, which is consolidating its Stockton presence and steadily developing its Newcastle offering.

The market saw the arrival of a number of niche firms, such as Neon Legal, Silk Family Law and Collingwood Legal, as well as the entry of established firms such as DWF LLP and Hempsons.

Relative newcomer Major Family Law had a very successful year, and is highly regarded by clients and peers.

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Legal Developments in the UK

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