What is a 'regional law firm'? Beverley Whittaker, partner at Stevens & Bolton, explains

Regional firms are best described as firms based outside London that are associated with a particular part of the country. Often not as large as City firms, they often have a strong identity, particularly within the region. They should not be confused with small, local ‘high street’ type practices – regional firms will be well known, larger and offer a greater degree of specialisation.

There will often be little difference in the type of work and clients serviced by regional firms and those of national and many London firms. Most ‘regionals’ will cover the key practice areas (such as corporate, commercial, real estate, dispute resolution and employment) and may also advise on high value private client matters. Many will have overseas connections to assist with international work and may have overseas offices. Regional firms may see fewer large flotations and public takeovers but are still likely to be involved in large transactions such as significant corporate transactions and other high value projects.

Clients vary from very large corporations to smaller owner-managed businesses. This mix of clients provides an interesting range of work that may not be available in the very largest firms. Local knowledge and connections are important – particularly in work areas where referrals from intermediaries are significant – and lawyers will always be encouraged to be part of the local business scene.

Regional firms can offer the best of many options. They are small enough to be welcoming and friendly yet large enough to offer good work and career opportunities. The number of trainees taken on in regional firms is likely to be smaller than in larger London or national firms. This can give greater opportunities to trainees both to get involved in particular jobs and to contribute more generally towards the work of the firm by getting involved in marketing. Trainees can expect to work with partners or senior lawyers and so have the benefit of good supervision and high quality work.

Beverley Whittaker is the trainee partner at Stevens & Bolton LLP.