VWV, a leading national law firm headquartered in Bristol, is celebrating numerous achievements in the latest Chambers & Partners rankings, securing top spots in both regional and UK-wide legal sectors.
The 2025 Chambers & Partners rankings reflect the talent and expertise of their teams and align with the strategic growth objectives of the firm, reinforcing their commitment to expanding and enhancing services, developing smarter ways of working to meet the evolving needs of clients.
The firm has achieved top placements in multiple categories, with 17 teams receiving recognition and 42 lawyers securing individual rankings. Nine lawyers have entered the rankings for the first time or have improved on their 2024 ranking, reflecting their commitment to excellence.
Managing Partner, Steve McGuigan, commented “We’re thrilled to see the 2025 rankings recognise the hard work and dedication of our team. This achievement reflects our strategic focus on expanding key areas to strengthen our existing services and strengthening existing partnerships. Congratulations to everyone who contributed to this success, and a sincere thank you to all of our clients who provided references we’re proud of those relationships and the feedback reflects this .”
Significant achievements:
- Personal Injury: Earned a Band 1 ranking, with partner Jonathan Peacock achieving individual Band 1 status.
- Family Law: Recognised nationally, with Samantha Hickman retaining her Band 1 ranking and Lucy Barr advancing to Band 2. Katie Hanson entered the rankings for the first time, being recognised as an “Associate to Watch”.
- Corporate: Maintained a Band 1 ranking in Watford, under the leadership of Richard Phillips. Bristol’s Nathan Guest rising to Band 1 recognition.
- Education: The Independent Schools team achieved a Band 1 ranking, and five of the team, including Alice Reeve, Barney Northover, Simon Bevan, and Tabitha Cave, received individual rankings.
- Healthcare: The Medical Partnerships team earned a Band 1 ranking, highlighting partners Ben Willis and Oliver Pool, both ranked in Band 2.
- Employment: Gareth Edwards, Simon Bevan, Michael Delaney, Jane Byford and Kathy Halliday received individual recognition, with Bristol and Birmingham teams also achieving rankings.
- Charities: Maintained a Band 3 ranking, with Con Alexander receiving a Band 1 ranking. Laura Chesham and Leila Goodarzi were recognised as new entries.
- Real Estate: Bristol and Watford teams were both recognition. Daniel Hall and Georgina Little received ‘Up and Coming’ rankings and Head of Real Estate, Michelle Bendall, maintained her Band 1 ranking.
About VWV
Our history dates back to the early 19th century, but what truly defines us today is our commitment to the people who matter the most—our clients and our team.
Our focus is channelling our skill, energy, and expertise into understanding your world, as our client and delivering the tailored support you need to give you the confidence to make the right decision for you.