Lodders remains the benchmark firm

Warwickshire law firm Lodders is ranked once again as one of the top firms in the Midlands for agricultural and private client work.

The firm is described as a "first-class act" in the field of agricultural and rural affairs – and the partner who runs the department is rated as one of the top men in his field in a new survey rating lawyers and firms.

The outstanding praise for Lodders comes from the legal profession's "bible" – the Chamber and Partners Guide - in its new 2008 edition published on Thursday.

The guide reports that Lodders capitalises on a strong local presence to earn recognition on the national stage.

"Its dedicated team - of agricultural specialists - exhibits "outstanding diligence" and a first-hand knowledge of farming practices.

"The recent arrival of Michael Orlik consolidates the firm's standing for rights of way and boundary disputes," says Chambers.

The team, known for its "highly technical ability," has also developed a reputation for mineral rights and overage clauses while continuing its work as specialists on Agricultural Holdings Act 1986 (AHA) tenancy matters, inheritance tax exemption and single farm payment issues.

In rating Lodders' senior partner as one of the top three practitioners in the Midlands the guide continues: "David Lodder provides expert advice on succession planning and trust structuring.

"He remains resolutely loyal to the grassroots farming community, and is respected among his peers for his "professional integrity" and ability to understand his clients' aspirations."

A Midlands top rating is also awarded to partner Martin Green who has run the firm's private client department for 21 years.

His colleague and fellow partner Stephen Brignull also receives a high Midlands rating.

The guide says: "Lodders traditional and substantial private client base includes proprietors of businesses, partnerships and large landowners, and has developed the capacity to professionally meet its business needs.

"A friendly atmosphere and the highest quality service are its hallmark."

The guide also notes that Lodders specialises in estate and tax planning together with probate, trust creation and administration, charities and elderly client work.

It adds that the expanding corporate, commercial property and employment departments act for leading developers, banks and businesses that also now benefit from the firm's planning and highways expertise.

Managing partner Rod Bird said: "Once again Lodders has received outstanding praise from the guide that is recognised in our profession as the benchmark in judging standards."

He added: "We are proud that our hallmarks are perceived as friendliness and high quality service."