As part of the review, legal firms' services are are assessed, with a focus on engagement from the organisation and its members as well as feedback from NFU members and staff.
Chosen firms offer a comprehensive legal service encompassing all areas of law relevant to farming and growing, including succession planning, diversification, renewable energy, dispute resolution, planning, probate, family, and conveyancing.
In the last financial year, the Panel offered a total discount of more than £500,000 to NFU members.
Napthens, which has offices in Preston, Liverpool, the Fylde Coast, Cumbria, Southport, and Blackburn, is a founding member of the Panel and part of it since its inception 14 years ago.
As a long-standing trusted partner for farming organisations across the North West, Napthens’ specialist rural team is ranked Tier 1 in legal industry guide Legal 500.
Andrew Holden, head of the rural team at Napthens, said: “We know that navigating the legal terrain can be difficult, particularly when considering the workload of the modern farmer. It’s why we’re excited to continue our relationship as a go-to adviser for NFU members, helping to ease the legal burden so farmers can focus on other priorities.”
NFU North West Regional Director David Hall added: “The world of farming regulation and requirements is ever-changing, meaning the NFU Legal Panel remains a crucial point of reference for our members. With special access to the UK’s very best rural legal experts – at a reduced rate – our members will be prepared to face any legal challenge that comes their way.”
- For information about the Legal Panel Firms and how to join the Legal Assistance Scheme, call NFU CallFirst on 0370 845 8458.