This review is for a different branch.
I contacted Reeds following an allegation made against me in 2022. Over the course of the following 18 months, I was supported by my Solicitor Stuart Matthews, my barrister Lucy Tapper and the wider team at reeds as I was charged and a court date was set, before the case was ultimately dropped.
Nothing I can write truly conveys the level of gratitude I feel towards Stuart, Lucy and the team who supported me throughout this ordeal. From the offset, Stuart engaged with all parties on my behalf - providing me with regular updates on any developments. He called for regular check-ins and made clear that he was available any time night or day if I ever needed to chat. He answered every question - however insignificant and provided reassurance at every step in the process.
Stuart handled the difficult balance of acting on my instruction and drawing on his expertise and experience exceptionally well, deftly negotiating conversations so that I was always heard but carefully guided and given the best advice on how to proceed.
Both Stuart and Lucy advocated on my behalf directly with the police and CPS throughout the pre-charge, post-charge and pre-trial periods - conducting extensive prep work to make both required and voluntary representations on my behalf. Preparatory discussions between Stuart, Lucy and I about the allegation were handled with care and meticulous record keeping ensured that I never needed to repeat myself.
Extensive work during the pre-trial phase to gather character references and draft and submit my proof of evidence ensured that a robust defence was put forward even before the trial begun and I have no doubt that they were instrumental in helping secure the outcome.
While nothing could prepare me for the shock of an allegation and the anxiety of facing legal action, reeds helped me to face the challenge and provided a level of support far exceeding their requirements as my legal representatives.