Rankings Explained

The Research

Our methodology for the research into the strengths and reputations of law firms and individuals has been approved by the British Market Research Bureau.

We speak to a vast range of lawyers and their clients (ie commercial users of legal services). Greater weighting is given to the views of the clients, and any biased viewpoints tend to cancel each other out. All interviews are conducted purely for research purposes and are entirely confidential and un-attributed.

We select our sources on the basis of:

• - submissions put forward by legal practices
• - interviews during the course of research
• - our own database resources.

In-depth interviews with clients and with lawyers are done over the telephone, each one lasting about half an hour.

Thousands of interviews are conducted by a team of 50+ full-time researchers. Unlike our competitors, Chambers researches, compiles and launches completely new editions of our directories each year.

The Rankings

Law firms and individual lawyers are ranked in bands from 1-6, with 1 being the best.

In addition, there are further categories in which lawyers can be ranked as exceptional individuals. A 'Senior Statesman' is a lawyer who no longer works hands-on with the same intensity but who, by virtue of close links with major clients, remains pivotal to the firm’s success. A 'Star' ranking is given to lawyers with exceptional recommendations in their field.

Two additional bands list those who are at the forefront of their generation but who do not yet warrant inclusion in the tables. The 'Up and Coming' band lists those who do not yet have an established reputation but who are driving their firm's growth. 'Associates to Watch' are senior associates who are recognised for their work in the background of major deals.

In the UK, Barristers are divided into 'Leading Silks' and 'Leading Juniors'. Leading juniors who have since taken silk appear banded under 'New Silks'.

The qualities on which rankings are assessed include technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial astuteness, diligence, commitment, and other qualities most valued by the client.

Firms and individuals are ranked in bands (where they are listed alphabetically).

Chambers Commentary

Editorial comment is based on our research, with quotations used when they sum up the prevailing opinion in the market.

The rankings and editorial comment about lawyers are independent and objective. Inclusion in this section of the guide is based solely on the research team's findings. No-one can buy their way in.