CMS

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

• The individuals we have worked with stand out for their ability to combine deep technical knowledge with sound judgement and a pragmatic, solutions-focused mindset. They are responsive, approachable, and able to communicate complex issues clearly, helping clients understand both the legal framework and the practical options available. Tim Green provides clear, commercially grounded advice and is particularly effective at distilling complex issues into straightforward, practical options. He demonstrates strong awareness of the wider strategic context and is able to support decision-making in a way that is both pragmatic and technically robust. John Hanratty brings considerable experience and demonstrates sound judgment on complex or nuanced matters. He provides balanced and thoughtful advice, helping clients navigate technical issues while maintaining a clear focus on practical outcomes. Across the team, the quality of advice, responsiveness, and commercial awareness compare very favourably with other firms in the market. The individuals we have worked with are trusted advisers who understand client objectives and are able to support both strategic and day-to-day decision-making effectively.
• CMS stands out for combining strong technical expertise with a genuinely commercial and pragmatic approach. The team understands the wider context in which trustees and sponsors operate and consistently focuses on delivering solutions that are workable in practice, rather than simply identifying legal risk in isolation. Their advice is clear, proportionate, and aligned with client objectives, enabling efficient decision-making even where issues are complex or time-sensitive. A key strength of the practice is its ability to turn around advice swiftly without compromising on quality. The team is highly responsive and proactive, often anticipating issues before they arise and helping clients maintain momentum on transactions, governance projects, and day-to-day advisory matters. They are also collaborative in their approach, working effectively alongside actuarial, covenant, and investment advisers to ensure advice is joined-up and practical. Compared to some other firms, CMS strikes an effective balance between technical rigour and accessibility. Their advice is consistently well-structured, concise, and focused on the key decision points, which is particularly valued where trustee boards require clarity in order to discharge their duties confidently and efficiently. The team also demonstrates a modern and flexible approach to client service, including openness to alternative fee structures where appropriate, strong use of technology to support efficient document production and communication, and an inclusive and diverse team culture which is reflected in the collaborative way they work with clients and advisers. They are approachable and easy to engage with, whilst maintaining a high level of professionalism and technical credibility. Overall, CMS provides a strong combination of technical excellence, commercial awareness, and responsiveness, making them a trusted adviser on both strategic projects and business-as-usual matters.
• Pragmatic, commercial, keen to help.
• Large business, great capability across the practice, wider relevant capability in other practices within the firm. Very personable team.

Key clients

• Verity Trustees and TPT Retirement Solutions Limited
• Trustee of the British Tourist Boards’ Staff Pension and Life Assurance Scheme
• Trustee of the University of Manchester Superannuation Scheme
• Trustee of the Broadbent (1983) Pension Plan
• Trustee of the Whitely Pension Scheme
• Trustees of the Lakeland Laboratories Limited 2012 Retirement Benefit Scheme
• Trustees of the John Turner Construction Pension Scheme
• Trustee of the Benjn. R Vickers & Sons Limited Retirement Benefits Plan (1975)
• Trustee of the EYMS Group Pension Plan
• Practice Plus Group Hospitals Limited
• Teesside Pension Fund
• Trustees of the EYMS Pension Scheme

Work highlights