Leading Belfast law firm Cleaver Fulton Rankin has secured its place among the UK’s top legal talent, earning 16 practice area rankings and 35 individual lawyer recognitions in the newly released Chambers & Partners UK Solicitors Guide 2026.
Widely regarded as a benchmark for excellence in the legal profession, the Chambers Guide evaluates firms and solicitors across more than 80 specialist areas throughout England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Rankings are based on rigorous research and client feedback, assessing criteria such as legal expertise, commercial insight, client service, and value for money.
In the 2026 edition, Cleaver Fulton Rankin achieved Band 1 firm status in three key areas: Administrative & Public Law, Planning & Environment, and Real Estate Litigation. These top-tier rankings reflect the firm’s continued leadership and expertise in complex legal matters across Northern Ireland.
The firm’s individual lawyer rankings span Bands 1 to 4, with several professionals also recognised as ‘Associates to Watch’, ‘Star Associates’, and ‘Up and Coming’, highlighting the depth of talent and dedication across the team. Among the Band 1 Lawyers, Michael Black, Aaron Moore, and Patrick Fleming were commended for their exceptional technical ability, commercial acumen, and unwavering commitment to client service. Managing Director Jonathan Forrester was also honoured with the prestigious Eminent Practitioner ranking, acknowledging his significant influence and leadership within the legal sector.
Several lawyers received new recognitions in this year’s guide. Stephen Masterson and Ryan Elliot were named Star Associates in Administrative & Public Law and Family/Matrimonial respectively, while Stephen Masterson and Michael Boyce were ranked as Up and Coming in Licensing and Real Estate. Directors Stephen Cross and Brendan Martyn earned new Band 2 and Band 3 rankings across Energy, Planning & Environment, Administration & Public Law, and Banking & Finance. Additionally, Director Michael Black received a new Band 1 ranking for Employment, further reinforcing the firm’s strength in this area.
These accolades underscore Cleaver Fulton Rankin’s commitment to legal excellence, innovation, and delivering outstanding client service across Northern Ireland and beyond.
A number of exceptional client comments concerning Cleaver Fulton Rankin’s legal teams were also included in this year’s Guide:
“Their commerciality and entrepreneurial attitude are some of their unique qualities. They have consistently shown a willingness to innovate and review the approach they take to client instructions.”
- Litigation Client
“Cleaver Fulton Rankin provides an excellent service. The team is excellent at handling complex and sophisticated matters, distilling them into an understandable language for clients.”
- Construction Client
“CFR quickly get to grips with the issues and are thorough and methodical. Their forensic advice always puts clients in the best position to make fully informed decisions.”
- Administrative & Public Law Client
“We were highly impressed by the depth of knowledge and efficiency demonstrated throughout the process. Their ability to handle complex and sophisticated matters is commendable.”
- Charities Client
We would like to extend our thanks to our clients, colleagues and contacts for their continued support during this year’s Chambers & Partners research process.
Find out more about Cleaver Fulton Rankin’s legal services here.
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