Reeds Solicitors is lauded as being ‘synonymous with quality’ and having ’a well-earned reputation for excellence’. The practice is divided into the complex crime team, which handles large fraud work, drug conspiracies and HMRC mandates, and the private client team, which offers a diverse array of services such as handling motoring issues, HMO and taxi licensing as well as general crime. Both teams are led by Nicola Hutchinson, who ‘inspires confidence in clients with her knowledge of the evidence and tactical acuity’. Hutchinson is regularly instructed in high-profile cases concerning murder, terrorism, fraud, drug conspiracies, and serious sexual offences. Another name to note is Stephen Clifford, who is instructed on a range of complex matters, with particular focus on serious violent and sexual offences as well as high-value fraud. Andy Lee is frequently entrusted to defend those facing issues relating to serious fraud.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Reeds is synonymous with quality. A firm that is constantly sought after, with a well-earned reputation for excellence.’
‘Nicola Hutchinson is nothing short of a class act. She inspires confidence in clients with her knowledge of the evidence and tactical acuity.'
- 'Stephen Clifford is a well-respected, hardworking and intelligent lawyer. He has excellent judgement and provides timely, realistic and sensible advice to ensure the best possible outcome for clients.’
‘Reeds gives the full attention to the case, listen to the client and, where difficulties arise, handle it sympathetically. Not just going through the motions but delivering real, strong advocacy.’
‘Reeds are major players in criminal defence work in Bristol and the South-West. They have excellent systems in place that mean that despite a heavy case load each individual case gets the care and attention it needs. The prepare their cases thoroughly and work hard when briefing out cases to ensure they match the client to the right counsel.’
‘The service is head and shoulders above the service provided by other criminal solicitors. They really care about their clients and provide support to their clients when needed.’
‘The firm has strength and experience in depth as well as providing first class training to numerous young and enthusiastic case workers and trainee solicitors.’
‘The work is supported by a team which is informed and mutually supportive, such that if one member is absent or engaged in other work, cases can be progressed and clients left feeling supported.’
'Nicola Hutchinson has come out of nowhere to be the star player on the western circuit, she is an expert in Sexual offences, County Lines and international border drugs conspiracy and FCA investigations.'
'The business has a national reach which generates quality instructions from clients with interesting and sometimes unique difficulties. This work can be supported by a team which is informed and mutually supportive.'
Work highlights
Represented an individual on suspicion of attempted murder and terrorism.
Represented an individual on suspicion of gang related murder.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Nicola Hutchinson
Other key lawyers
Stephen Clifford; Andy Lee