Thames Valley law firm Gardner Leader has been described as “shining above all with their approachable and friendly way of doing things”, while newly appointed partner Niamh Minihane was named as a “next generation partner” and Katie Dyson, senior associate, was singled out as a “rising star” in the prestigious The Legal 500 guide for 2022.
Partners Alastair Goggins, Chris Felton and Michelle Di Gioia were also named as Leading Individuals, a ranking they have retained for the past five years.
In addition, the legal experts at the firm have secured their positions in the listing once again with 11 practice areas recommended in the Legal 500 tables, three leading Individuals and 23 key solicitors in their respective practice areas.
A further independent legal guide, referred to as the ‘gold standard’, Chambers UK, has named Chris Felton, who leads the firm’s commercial litigation team, as a notable practitioner. The guide states: “Chris Felton is, without doubt, one of the elite commercial litigators in the entire country. He is calm under pressure, with a great eye for strategy, and expertise in the litigation arena that instils confidence in clients. It goes without saying that he is therefore more than a match for any City litigator.”
Corporate partners Jeff Jenkins and Philip Humphreys were also ranked in the Corporate category in the Chambers UK list.
Published each Autumn, the two leading industry guides are known for their rigorous independent assessment of legal firms nationwide.
Legal 500 quotes clients as saying about Niamh Minihane that she is “super-efficient in her response times. She is a consummate professional, quickly developing the level of trust critical to the lawyer/client relationship. She is also a compassionate person which, when dealing with the bereavement of a client’s loved one, is a great quality to possess”.
Katie Dyson was described as “a rising star, bringing a combination of humour and industry to her work”.
About the firm in general, a client is quoted as saying: “The firm is approachable and friendly. Despite the significant growth of the firm, it has remained true to its values. I feel that I am in good hands. I trust this firm.”
Top (L – R): Niamh Minihane, Alastair Goggins, Michelle Di Gioia, Philip Humphreys
Bottom (L – R): Chris Felton, Katie Dyson, Jeff Jenkins