Cumbrian law firms are celebrating after being recognised in this year’s edition of the industry “bible”.

The Legal 500 is the leading guide to the legal profession in the UK, and Baines Wilson LLP, Burnetts and Cartmell Shepherd feature prominently across a number of sectors.

Fifteen solicitors from Baines Wilson are highly recommended, with the firm’s dispute resolution department achieving the highest top tier ranking and partner Sean Logue, head of commercial property, becoming the only Cumbrian lawyer to appear in the elite “Leading Lawyers” list.

Mr Logue said: “We have been consistently recognised by the Legal 500 over many years and we would very much like to thank our clients and business contacts for their positive comments, on which our rankings are based.”

A record 24 lawyers from Burnetts are included in the guide, which assesses law firms based on their size and resources but also on clients’ recommendation. Four of its specialist teams warrant top tier ranking, while six others are praised for their legal expertise and client care.

Burnetts also maintains its position as the only practice in Cumbria to be recommended for its specialisms in education and clinical negligence.

Managing partner Nick Gutteridge said: “Over the last year we have invested heavily in growing our teams and it’s fantastic to see some of those new recruits being recognised for their excellent work.”

Meanwhile Cartmell Shepherd are recognised within nine areas of law, with their agriculture team keeping their top tier ranking and Mark Jackson recognised as a Next Generation Lawyer.

Cartmells are the only Cumbrian firm to be recognised for their work in contentious trusts and probate, with managing director Peter Stafford and associate Stephanie Johnson named for their work on recent disputes.

Mr Stafford said: “The recognition of our staff and teams not only demonstrates our commitment to our people but also to providing a quality service for our clients, who are at the heart of our business.”

Several departments of Napthens – which has offices in Kendal and Penrith – were also recognised.

Its corporate, rural and litigation teams were selected as a “top tier” departments, with several members of staff singled out for special praise, including David Carr, who joined the commercial team in 2016, identified as a ‘next generation’ lawyer.

There was also rankings and praise for its wills and estate planning team, commercial property and employment and HR teams.

Shru Morris, CEO of Napthens, said: “It is great to see so many of our teams and lawyers highlighted for the quality of their work and it supports our belief that we can compete on a strong footing against larger, city-based firms.”