Lexcel Award puts Rutherfords in top 5% of solicitors

Clients of one of Tamworth's leading law firms can be extra confident the advice they receive is the best after the firm has yet again obtained prestigious 'mark of excellence' recognition from the Law Society.

For the 6th year running Rutherfords Solicitors joins an elite band of UK law firms having been reaccredited with the Lexcel Award, which recognises excellence in customer care, case management and risk management. Only around 5% of the country's legal practices can boast the award, and Rutherfords is one of only a handful in the area to have achieved the top quality mark.

Partner Steve Wengraf and Rutherfords spokesperson believes this exclusivity makes the award even more special. "It's a bit like winning an Oscar," he said. "It's a tremendous vote of confidence in the service we provide and provides further assurance to our clients of the value and quality of our advice. The fact that so few UK law firms have received the Lexcel quality mark reinforces its importance and the fact we have received it for 6 years running is a real coup.

"It's more than a piece of paper, though. We see the award as a practical management tool," he added. "It embraces good practice at every level and enables us to achieve the consistent high standards for which we are increasingly renowned."

For Robert Heslett, President of the Law Society of England and Wales, the accreditation sharpens Rutherfords competitive edge during this difficult economic climate. He said: "Rutherfords' achievement of gaining Lexcel accreditation proves a commitment to the continual development of the practice's management standards.

"By implementing policies, plans, processes and procedures within Lexcel's key areas, such as client service and risk management, Rutherfords will become even more effective in managing their practice. He added: "In addition, this achievement shows the positive steps taken by Rutherfords to help clients in the increasingly diverse, complicated and competitive legal market."

Organisations achieving the Lexcel standard have to show compliance in eight areas: structure and policies; strategy, the provision of services and marketing; financial management; facilities and IT; people management; supervision and operational risk management; client care; and file and case management.

Rutherfords is an independent legal practice established over 80 years ago. Its 35-strong team is committed to providing quality, cost effective legal advice to a diverse range of businesses and private individuals.