Bowcock Cuerden LLP / NFU Press release. September 2018

Leading North West agricultural law firm reappointed

One of the North West’s leading agricultural law firms has again been re-appointed to the National Farmers Union’s Legal Panel.

Nantwich-based law firm Bowcock Cuerden LLP participated in a six month review by the NFU and were praised for their strength of expertise in farming matters together with their commitment to NFU members and quality of service.

The announcement means that the firm has retained its place on NFU’s National Legal Panel for the third time, keeping it amongst the UK’s leading agricultural law firms.

Philip Cuerden, Bowcock Cuerden’s managing director, said that the firm had always been heavily committed to its agricultural and horticultural clients and had been delighted to have been appointed as one of NFU’s 16 National Legal Panel firms back in 2008. The relationship has been developed since then, with the appointment subsequently being re-affirmed in 2012 and 2015.

He added: “The NFU’s review earlier this year was extremely thorough, involving an assessment of the services and specialisations we offer, our fee structures, commitment to the NFU and its members, and also feedback from both NFU staff and members. We are very pleased indeed to have been again re-appointed to the NFU National Legal Panel for a third term. Quality of service and client satisfaction are paramount to us, and it is extremely gratifying to have received such a highly valued independent endorsement”.

NFU director of finance and business services Ken Sutherland said: “The Legal Panel is a vital part of the services offered to NFU members and following a rigorous and robust review process I am delighted to confirm that fifteen firms have been reappointed.

“The firms have built upon and strengthened their agricultural and rural teams, and their professionalism and depth of knowledge is second-to-none.”

Chairman of the Legal Board Trevor Foss added: “The increase in regulation in the industry over the last few years has put the Legal Panel in high demand and we are committed to delivering a high quality legal service for all.

The reappointments will serve to strengthen the bond between the NFU, LAS and panel solicitors, which together delivers tangible benefits for all NFU members and LAS subscribers”.

Pictured: Managing Director Philip Cuerden with co-Director and Head of Litigation Lesley Smith