Guernsey law firms and lawyers have once again been highly praised in the latest Legal 500 publication.
The highly regarded directory's reviews take into account the views of clients, competitors and industry members.
The 2009 review acknowledged how Guernsey firms have been adapting to working with a raft of new legislation, including the companies law and an overhaul of the funds regime. It also highlighted Ozannes and Carey Olsen as the two dominant local firms, while the second tier of firms consists of Babbé, which rebranded two years ago and refocused on corporate finance and fiduciary work, and Collas Day.
Ozannes is regarded as the leading Guernsey firm, placing in the top tier of all seven practice areas.
Managing Partner Robert Shepherd said: "There are a number of publications within which we are proud to be listed as a leader, but to be continually listed as a top firm within the Legal 500, arguable the leading international directory for law firms, is testimony to the strength and depth which we possess across all practice areas and the strong working practices which have established a real team culture across the firm."
Carey Olsen placed in the top tier of six areas and across both Guernsey and Jersey has 14 lawyers recommended as leading individuals, more than any other Channel Islands firm.
John Greenfield, Managing Partner of Carey Olsen in Guernsey, said: "The Legal 500 is an important guide to the legal community and due to the rigorous nature of the research gives an unparalleled insight into law firms.
"With lawyers from our offices in Guernsey and Jersey receiving positive mentions it bodes well for the future and our commitment to being a full service."
Other firms to appear in the top tier of practice areas were AO Hall for employment, Collas Day for commercial property and Ogier for commercial and banking.
Collas Day Senior Partner Chris Bound said he was pleased for the firm to have ranked so highly and the directory recognising the company as a young and vibrant firm with a new management structure.
William Simpson, Managing Partner of Ogier in Guernsey, said he was pleased that as well as placing in the top tier for commercial and banking, the Legal 500 had seen that Ogier's investment funds practice had been a key growth area for the firm.
"Our market share has increased dramatically in areas such as investment funds in recent years. It is particularly satisfying to see that the legal directories are acknowledging our progression," he said.
As well as Guernsey firms placing in the top tier for specific practice areas, there were also a varying number of appearances in the second tiers for Carey Olsen, Collas Day, AO Hall, Ogier, Babbe, Bedell Cristin, Ashton Barnes Tee, Mourant de Feu & Jeune and AFR Advocates.
For more information about Guernsey's finance industry please visit www.guernseyfinance.com.
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