Reeds Solicitors stands out for its expertise in criminal defence work. The practice is divided into the complex crime team, which focuses on large fraud claims, drug conspiracies and HMRC issues; and the private crime team, which advises on motoring issues, education work and general criminal cases. The former is led by Julian Richards, with the latter headed up by Stuart Matthews; both are based in Oxford. In Bristol, Stephen Clifford leads the Crown Court team, regularly defending clients at the Magistrates Court in a range of high-stakes crime cases. Nicola Hutchinson is highly experienced in a broad set of criminal and regulatory matters spanning murder, rape and sexual assault cases, fraud issues, and drug conspiracies. Solicitor advocate Andy Lee is another key member, noted for his representation of clients at the police station as well as the Magistrates Court.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They do everything right from start to finish.’
‘Nicola Hutchinson is a force of nature, on top of her case load, knows exactly what she is doing and commands respect from her clients and her opposition.'
‘Highly capable and experienced team, second to none in the Bristol marketplace.’
‘Nicola Hutchinson is a force to be reckoned with for prosecuting authorities. She is incisive and fearless. She will pursue client's objectives relentlessly whilst maintaining a realistic approach.'
‘The team's Bristol Office is staffed throughout with capable, enthusiastic and experienced individuals who provide first-class litigation support across the whole range of criminal cases.'
‘Everyone in the team that I dealt with were fantastic. Everyone worked together seamlessly, if one person was unavailable and otherwise engaged another member of the team would respond. Replies to questions were not generic holding replies. When I asked a question, I knew I could place absolute faith in the advice provided.'
- 'Stephen Clifford is without question a superb solicitor and credit to the profession. Stephen knew my case inside out and I always felt as though my case was the most important matter he was dealing with. Stephen was always calm and reassuring. No issue was too small for Stephen to deal with.'
‘Andy Lee remains one of the best solicitors in this area I have ever worked with. He is diligent, committed, hardworking, thorough and has an excellent manner with clients both professional and lay.’
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; Stephen Clifford; Julian Richards; Stuart Matthews
Other key lawyers
Andy Lee