Steele Raymond expands with acquisition of specialist construction law firm Reeves James
Leading regional law firm Steele Raymond has announced the acquisition of the business and assets of Reeves James, a specialist construction law practice based in Poundbury.
Founded in 2020 by Chris Reeves, Reeves James has built a powerful reputation advising developers, contractors, sub-contractors, consultants, and individuals on both contentious and non-contentious construction matters. With this acquisition, Steele Raymond establishes a dedicated construction law team, further strengthening its comprehensive legal service offering.
The new construction team will be headed by Chris Reeves, who joins Steele Raymond as a Partner. Dual-qualified as a solicitor and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building, Chris is also a member of the Technology and Construction Solicitor’s Association. He brings expertise in construction dispute resolution, with a focus on contractor claims, professional negligence, and complex technical disputes.
Chris will be joined by two apprentice solicitors: Lola Wilkinson and Ella Lakins, a legal secretary: Natasha Welch, and a further associate joining later this year.
Jennifer Rogerson, Managing Partner at Steele Raymond, said: “We are delighted that Chris will be joining Steele Raymond as partner of our new construction team. His appointment is a significant addition to our team of outstanding lawyers, who are dedicated to supporting our clients in achieving their ambitions.”
Chris added: “Steele Raymond’s reputation is second to none and I am excited to join this forward thinking and dynamic firm. I am very much looking forward to collaborating with the team and contributing to the firm’s continued growth.”
This strategic expansion follows the recent opening of Steele Raymond’s new office in Ocean Village, Southampton, on the 1st of April, further signalling the firm’s continued growth and regional presence.
Over the last five years, the full-service firm has almost doubled in size, increasing the partnership to 26 and developing niche, highly specialist teams within Residential Development, Property Litigation and Estate Planning and Tax, alongside expanding its already well-regarded Commercial and Private Client teams.
(Left to right): Lola Wilkinson (Apprentice Solicitor), Jennifer Rogerson (Managing Partner),
Ella Lakins (Apprentice Solicitor), Chris Reeves (Partner Construction) and Nick Davies (Partner Corporate & Commercial).
