The Legal 500 UK rated McGuireWoods London as a leading law firm in four practice areas and named commercial litigation partner Chloe Steele a “Next Generation Partner” in its 2025 guide to top firms in the United Kingdom.
McGuireWoods once again earned nationwide rankings in the following categories:
- M&A: Smaller Deals, £10 million – £100 million
- Commercial Litigation: Mid-Market
- Commercial Property: Corporate Occupiers
- Employment: Employers
In commercial litigation, the Legal 500 cited the firm’s experience in cross-border commercial and corporate litigation, particularly in the technology, energy, banking, insurance and life sciences sectors. In published testimonials, clients praised the firm’s London commercial litigation team for its versatility and attention to detail.
“[T]he McGuireWoods team are among the very best of litigators in the UK! Clients achieve success under their counsel!” a client told the Legal 500.
Steele was singled out as a “Next Generation Partner,” a distinction reserved for junior partners who earn significant recognition from clients and peers and play key roles on multiple matters. Steele represents international and domestic, corporate and individual clients in complex commercial disputes.
“Her work is always delivered promptly and goes right to the heart of the issues, often identifying the central point of the case,” a client said.
Clients also lauded commercial litigation partners Simon Hems and William Boddy. Hems advises clients in litigation involving the renewable energy, maritime, insurance recovery, and offshore oil and gas sectors, as well as general commercial disputes. Boddy represents clients in fraud-related, multi-jurisdictional commercial litigation.
McGuireWoods London’s commercial real estate team earned a nationwide ranking for advising corporate occupiers in the technology, life sciences and industrial sectors and providing guidance on leases, acquisitions and corporate office portfolios. Clients commended partner Callum Hassall, who concentrates on the retirement living sector and cross-border acquisitions and associate Hannah Irish, who assists clients in real estate finance and the property elements of corporate sales and acquisitions.
“Callum Hassall – the sort of junior partner you want on your deal – young, enthusiastic and totally ‘on it’ but wise beyond his years,” an industry client said.
Another client said Irish “was superb in managing the advice process for us, persistent in delivering a complex project on time, dealing with a variety of issues with clear, timely advice.”
The firm’s London employment team earned recognition for its strength in complex, contentious matters. Led by Daniel L. Peyton, managing partner of McGuireWoods’ London office, the group has been particularly active recently in advising on the protection of business assets, discrimination and harassment matters, and assisting with senior-level employment terminations. Adam Penman also plays a pivotal role in the practice, the Legal 500 noted.