Midland law firm lands NFU contract

Paul Rice, partner in the farming and rural business department at Wright Hassall
Paul Rice, partner in the farming and rural business department at Wright Hassall

A Midland law firm has been reappointed to represent the NFU, advising members in three East Midlands counties.

Leamington-based Wright Hassall has been chosen to continue to represent the NFU as it looks to undertake an intensive review of its services.

The firm will provide affordable and accessible advice and support to NFU members in Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland, as part of the organisation’s Legal Assistance Scheme.

Paul Rice, partner in the farming and rural business department at Wright Hassall, said: “We have worked successfully for the NFU for many years and have developed a strong partnership approach to providing high quality support and legal advice to their members.

“We are delighted that we have been chosen as the preferred legal provider for NFU members across these counties and look forward to working with them to support growth and prosperity over the next three years.

“The farming industry is under immense pressure, financially and economically.

“The appalling weather this year has made farmer’s work even more difficult. Farmers are business owners and face the same financial and legal challenges as those working in other industries, so it’s important that they have access to the best possible advice and support.”

Richard Hezlet, regional director of NFU in the East Midlands, added: “I am delighted to confirm the reappointment of Wright Hassall LLP as one of 15 national members of the NFU’s legal panel.

“The firm has been retained on the back of its strength and depth in our industry and will represent NFU farmer and grower members across Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland.

“The NFU’s Legal Panel Service is an important part of the overall NFU legal service offered to our members. We congratulate Wright Hassall on their reappointment and look forward to working closely with the firm in the next few years.”

In addition to offering comprehensive legal services relating to farming issues, Wright Hassall LLP will provide support to NFU members on non-farming areas such as succession planning, diversification, tax planning, probate, family and conveyancing.