This Top 100 UK firm with a turnover approaching £25 million has the resources to serve both national and international clients from its base along the M23 corridor. Populated by "business people who happen to be lawyers", the firm boasts an open, informal style encompassing a modern attitude to the law. Its cutting-edge approach was recently recognized through an award for Best Use of Technology at the MPF European Practice Management Awards. Clients hail from both the commercial and public sectors, not to mention a healthy smattering of private individuals.
Among other things, the firm is highly recommended for the following:
Employment: A team of 14 with all-round strength in the education sector. It advises the region's large employers on a range of contentious issues, including whistleblowing, race discrimination, maternity leave-based sex discrimination, constructive dismissal and failure to consult with regard to a transfer of undertakings. The team also specialises in the ways that UK employment law can be influenced by EU legislation.
Environment: DMH Stallard has reacted well to the increased activity in this sector and built up an impressive waste practice, acting for clients such as Ethos Recycling and Premier Aggregates. Other areas of strength include environment-related statutory nuisance work and environmental impact assessment and planning-related matters.
Intellectual property: Another team whose star is in the ascendant, this growing group deals primarily with contentious trademark and design work, with an eye on commercially focused advice. Instructions come from the worlds of fashion and technology, as well as the public sector. Key clients include shoe designer and retailer Office Holdings, ADA Computer Systems and publisher Friday Holdings.
Planning: Building on its reputation as "one of the leading out-of-London planning firms in the South East", the firm has now moved into London offices and scored some success despite the prevailing economic conditions. Clients include Ethos Energy UK, Park Holidays UK and Brighton & Hove Albion FC. It has also recently advised a consortium of house builders in the Crawley area.
