
VWV secure 31 rankings in the Legal 500 2026 legal directory
VWV are delighted to have secured 31 practice area rankings in the latest Legal 500 legal directory, which includes two new or increased rankings whilst retaining all seven top tier rankings.
VWV improved rankings in a number of practice areas and has maintained top tier rankings across 7 practice areas and regions.
Notably, the Family team have secured their first ranking in the Beds, Bucks, Herts and Middx region, and the Commercial Property team have achieved a 2nd tier ranking in the same region, improving from last year's guide.
Joe Kwok, Partner in the Watford Commercial Property team, has commented on the improved ranking:

We are really pleased to see our Commercial Property team in the Watford office recognised in the Legal 500 rankings, advancing to Tier 2. This achievement reflects the dedication, expertise, and client-focused approach that our team consistently delivers.
We take immense pride in the work we do, supporting clients across a wide range of real estate matters, being genuinely interested in their business's and we are committed to continuing to provide the high level of service that has earned us this recognition.
This advancement inspires us to keep striving for excellence and further solidify our reputation as a leading real estate team in the region.
Samantha Hickman, Head of our Family team, has commented on the Family team rankings. Samantha said:

"The Family team are delighted that our Watford team has now joined the Birmingham and Bristol teams with recognition in the Legal 500 rankings. It reflects the steadfast determination of every member of the team to deliver expert advice for client's who are often faced with very challenging circumstances. The team continues to go from strength to strength with the focus being on meeting each client's individual needs."
VWV have also secured 35 individual rankings across all tiers with 21 Leading Partners, 9 Next Generation and 5 Leading Associates. Simon Bevan, Kathy Halliday, and Jonathan Peacock have again maintained their positions in the Hall of Fame, highlighting their continued excellence in their respective fields. Rachel Crean has advanced and is a new entrant in the Leading Partners category. We have also seen Gemma Pouncy advance to the Next Generation Partners category.
VWV are delighted that Samantha Hickman and Lucy Barr have been newly ranked as Leading Partners, and Vicky Ward a Leading Associate.
These rankings highlight VWV’s ongoing commitment to excellence, innovation and exceptional client service. With a strong foundation and a growing team of highly regarded professionals, the firm looks forward to building on this success and continuing to deliver outstanding results for clients in the year ahead.