BPE Solicitors LLP is thrilled to have had seven of our disciplines highlighted in the 2026 edition of The Legal 500 Legal Directory.
This year’s results showcase the strength and depth of expertise across the firm, with two of our core teams achieving Tier 1 rankings and a number of our lawyers receiving individual recognition.
In a significant move, the BPE Corporate and Commercial team celebrates moving into the Tier 1 ranking, reflecting their notable contribution to the South West deals market and their role advising clients on complex transactions and strategic projects. Simon Gale has been named a Leading Partner, while Kathryn King, Partner and Team Leader, is recognised as a Next Generation Partner for her growing profile and expertise in the sector.
Our Commercial Litigation team has once again secured a Tier 1 ranking, a position they have proudly held for more than a decade. The team, led by Riyaz Jariwalla, continues to be recognised for its outstanding capability in handling complex and high-value disputes. Riyaz has also been individually named as a Leading Partner in both Commercial Litigation and Intellectual Property, highlighting his breadth of expertise. Philip Radford has been recognised as a Leading Partner, with John Carter and Peter Knibbs both achieving Next Generation Partner status.
The Employment team maintained a strong Tier 2 ranking, continuing to provide trusted advice to employers and employees across a broad range of workplace issues.
Our Commercial Property team achieved a Tier 3 ranking this year, recognised for their specialist support on investment, development and leasing matters. Team Leader Douglas Armstrong has been named a Leading Partner, underlining his experience and leadership in this field. The Intellectual Property team also secured a Tier 3 ranking, reflecting their strength in managing, protecting and enforcing clients’ IP rights.
Elsewhere, our Personal Tax, Trusts and Probate team was ranked Tier 4, while our Family team was recognised in Tier 5, ensuring BPE’s breadth of expertise continues to be represented across the directory.
Partner, Douglas Armstrong, commented:
“To have seven of our disciplines recognised in this year’s Legal 500 is an excellent achievement for the firm. It is especially pleasing to see both our Commercial Litigation and Corporate and Commercial teams secure Tier 1 rankings, as well as so many of our lawyers gaining individual recognition. These results are a testament to the hard work, dedication and expertise of our people. As a firm rooted in Gloucestershire but with national and international reach, BPE continues to deliver advice of the highest quality.”