Allington Hughes Law Celebrates Highest Grade in Peer Review

Allington Hughes Law, with offices in Chester, Wrexham and Llanrwst, is thrilled to have been recognised by peers achieving the highest grade,  ‘Category 1 – Excellent’ in a recent Peer Review conducted by the Legal Aid Agency. This prestigious recognition highlights the firm’s unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier legal services to its clients, even during challenging times. 

Mr. Patrick Geddes, Head of the Criminal Law Department at Allington Hughes Law, expressed his delight in the results, stating, “I am very happy to report that we have passed the Peer Review and have been graded as a Category 1 firm, which is the highest grade available. This accomplishment is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our entire team.” 

The comprehensive Peer Review encompassed an evaluation of files related to all members of the firm’s Criminal Law Department, spanning matters ranging from Police Station representation to cases heard in Magistrates’ and Crown Courts. The reviewers noted that Allington Hughes Law consistently prepared cases with meticulous attention to detail, delivering an exceptionally high level of service. The report also highlighted the firm’s talented and effective advocacy skills. 

In one notable paragraph of the report, it was stated, “The bulk of the files reviewed spanned a period when COVID restrictions were in place. Despite these restrictions, the provider was able to maintain its high quality of service to clients. The actions of the provider in maintaining a high quality of service during this period was impressive.” 

The acknowledgment of Allington Hughes Law’s dedication to upholding their standard of excellence, even amid challenging circumstances, further underscores the firm’s commitment to its clients. 

Mr. Geddes continued, “I am extremely proud of everyone in the Department and for the effort and quality of work they do every day. This recognition reinforces our belief in the importance of delivering top-tier legal representation to those who need it most.” 

For those unfamiliar with the process, a Peer Review is a method employed by the Legal Aid Agency to assess the quality of legal advice provided to clients. In this process, a selection of files is scrutinised by an independent peer reviewer, who is a legal expert with extensive experience in the relevant field. The aim of peer reviews is to ensure the quality of legal services and provide a robust evaluation, contrasting with the more traditional ‘tick-box’ approach of compliance audits. 

Commenting on the report, newly appointed Managing Director Stephen Foote says;  

‘Congratulations Patrick and all the team that is superb news. Often people will come to us at a desperate time in their lives, and to know that the team in the Criminal department, with all of the barriers that they face, continue to deliver an exemplary service and support process truly is something to be proud of.’  

Allington Hughes Law’s attainment of a ‘Category 1 – Excellent’ rating in their Peer Review is a significant milestone, affirming their status as a leading provider of criminal law services. Clients can continue to rely on the firm’s unwavering dedication to excellence and commitment to delivering the highest quality legal representation.

Mr. Patrick Geddes, Head of the Criminal Law Department