Belfast-based law firm Carson McDowell has achieved its best-ever rankings in the legal profession’s two most respected industry guides, Chambers UK and the Legal 500. 

The firm scored significantly higher than any other local legal firm, with more practice areas and more lawyers achieving their top ratings in both guides.

The firm has been consistently ranked as top local law firm in each guide over the past number of years and has beaten its own records for recognition of both its partners and its specialist teams.

In the Chambers 2020 listing, the firm achieved the ‘Band one’ rating in 21 out of 26 practice areas and 23 partners got the top accolade.

Practice areas

In the Legal 500, Carson McDowell had the highest number of practice areas ranked in the Top Tier category and more solicitors named as “leading individuals” than any other firm. 

Twelve out of 14 of the firm’s practice areas were ranked as Tier 1 category and 17 leading individuals were named. Amongst the achievements, the Planning & Environment team at Carson McDowell was recognised as the only Top Tier firm for Planning and Environmental law in Northern Ireland by the Legal 500 rankings.

Senior partner Neasa Quigley (pictured) said: “I am delighted but not surprised by the results of this year’s Chambers UK and Legal 500 rankings for our firm and people.

“Carson McDowell has a long-standing policy of hiring and developing the best talent and it is clear from these prestigious guides that our expertise is recognised by our clients and peers across a wide range of practice areas.

Accolades

"It is particularly pleasing to see some of our practice areas being awarded the highest accolades for the first time, including IT/technology and Insurance.

“The continued strong performance in these rankings serves to highlight our ongoing commitment to delivering the highest levels of service to all of our clients.”

Rankings

The Chambers UK guide, which ranks the best law firms and lawyers, covers 50 cities and counties in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Published annually, the rankings are based on extensive research and the independent opinions of clients.

The Legal 500 directory is an independent series which is widely regarded as the world’s largest legal referral guide. 

Over four million users visit The Legal 500 website each year, where firms and individuals are recommended purely on merit. Published annually, the rankings are based on the independent opinions of clients and in-depth research carried out by an experienced team of editors.