Firm’s commitment to agricultural sector rewarded with highest accolade

A LEADING legal firm has been recognised for its commitment to the local farming community.

Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors, which operates across Cumbria and Northumberland, has been ranked among the best in the country for its expertise and knowledge of the agricultural sector.

Its Agriculture and Estates department was placed in the top tier of legal firms nationally for the first time by the Chambers UK Guide, which ranks lawyers and law firms throughout the UK.

Head of department and director Jonathan Carroll was also included on the individual list for the second consecutive year, along with Cartmell Shepherd director Mark Jackson. Cartmell Shepherd associate solicitor Katherine Pretswell-Walker was also highlighted as an associate to watch.

Jonathan Carroll is described in the guide as “an extremely technically gifted lawyer.” He leads the agriculture team and advises on a range of agricultural matters such as farm sales and purchases, partnership matters and AHA tenancy disputes. A client comments: “He is a well-respected, confident and practical individual who is capable of getting to the heart of an issue and providing sound advice to clients.”

Mark Jackson handles a number of agricultural matters, including land sales and purchases, AHA tenancy matters and estate management. The guide states: “If he has a point, he makes it clearly and concisely. He is a fantastic listener and is willing to listen to other points of view. He is really pleasant to deal with, really knowledgeable and approachable.”

Katherine Pretswell-Walker advises agricultural clients on a wide range of matters including sales and acquisitions of farms, mineral and sporting rights, and overage agreements. The guide states: “She is a really good lawyer. She is knowledgeable, good with clients, good to work with and extremely thorough.”

Peter Stafford, managing director of Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors, said the latest recognition for the team by The Chambers UK Guide 2021 was a reflection of the firm’s commitment to the agricultural sector.

He said: “We are committed to providing the highest quality legal advice and support for our clients across all aspects of Agriculture and Estates. To be recognised nationally for our work in the sector is reflection of the expertise and experience of the team.”

Earlier this month, Jonathan, Mark and Katherine also received accolades in the Legal 500, which analyses the capabilities of law firms across the world. Jonathan and Mark were highlighted as “leading individuals”, while Katherine was described as a “rising star”.