Reeds Solicitors demonstrate strength in complex crime cases, providing expert criminal defence representation in murder, violence, firearms, drugs and driving offence conspiracies. Practice head Beth Mantel is praised for her ‘razor sharp instincts’ when it comes to defending serious crime cases, including drug, murder, GBH, possession of firearms and further violent offences. Mantel was made partner in July 2024. Further key members of the practice include Damian Wall, Lisa Paton and Michael Sophocleous, who joined the firm in July 2024 from Stokoe Partnership Solicitors.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘In a very short space of time, Reeds has built itself into a major player in the Northwest for major and private crime. The team is dedicated and efficient, everyone pulls their weight and it is superbly led.’

  • ‘Beth Mantel is a superbly talented individual who mixes a democratic touch with flair and razor sharp instincts she has proved herself to be a gifted team manager. She has the unusual ability to be everywhere at once, always on top of her all her cases. Her clients trust her completely and they are wise to do so.’

  • ‘Beth Mantel: despite still being relatively junior in the ranks of law firm partners, Beth demonstrates exceptional judgement and insight into the cases she handles. When other solicitors might be on auto-pilot, Beth is always thinking about the case and finding ways to help her clients that others miss. She is truly exceptional, a cut above the rest.’

  • ‘Damian Wall is a standout performer and always has been. He is a firm favourite with crime clients. Damian is an extremely hard worker with natural ability. His management of serious criminal cases is outstanding and he is involved in many of the circuits biggest homicide cases. Lisa Paton has a huge reputation as being a hard hitting go getter who is not afraid of a fight. Lisa has superb tactical awareness and an ability to get the very best from her clients, frequently resulting in excellent results. Lucy Astley is one to watch. She has represented clients in some significant EncroChat cases and her popularity is ever increasing.’

  • ‘Lisa Paton works incredibly hard and her clients trust her completely. She has significant experience of working with neurodiverse clients. Lisa goes above and beyond what is required and secures the best result possible.’

  • ‘Reeds offers the very best of legal minds in one firm. The solicitors and associates at Reeds have a wealth of experience which they apply with aplomb. It is no surprise that the firm attracts high profile cases.’

  • ‘Beth Mantel is a formidable solicitor. Her dedication to her clients is outstanding. Her cases are always immaculately prepared. Damian Wall is as bright as he is hard-working. He goes over and above for his clients and his legal knowledge is always impressive.’

  • ‘Damian Wall and Lisa Paton are excellent. They demonstrate all of the qualities required to offer the best service to their clients. They have both experience and expertise and truly care.’

  • 'Reeds provides experience and expertise in the area of defending clients charged with serious criminal offences.'

  • 'In my experience this firm offers a strong and experienced team, comprising of able individuals who genuinely care about the people whom they represent.'

Lawyers

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Beth Mantel

Practice head

Beth Mantel

Other key lawyers

Damian Wall; Lisa Paton; Michael Sophocleous; Lucy Astley; Sian Hukin; Valentina Oldham