Terra Firma Chambers has been rated Band 1 in Chambers UK 2009, the authoritative and independent guide to the UK legal profession. It is the only Scottish stable to rank in the top Band 1 for planning law. The Chairman of Terra Firma, Roy Martin QC, described as an “exceptional barrister” by the directory, is the only member of the Scottish Bar to feature in Band 1 for individuals. 

With “heavyweight silk” Douglas Armstrong QC and the “extremely determined” Gordon Steele QC - “perennially named as a leading planning barrister” - featuring in the next highest band, Terra Firma far outperforms other Scottish stables in this significant and substantial area of law.

In addition, James Findlay, who called to the Scottish Bar in November (and who is already a Queen’s Counsel in England & Wales) is highly rated in the areas of local government planning law, licensing, and environment (particularly waste). 

Further information on the Chambers UK entry can be found here. 

In the Legal 500 (2009), nine advocates, including five Queen’s Counsel, are rated as leading members of the Scottish Bar. In respect of valuation and rating, Raymond Doherty QC “is second to none”. Robert Sutherland and Iain Maclean together ensure that Terra Firma Chambers remains the destination of choice for clients seeking advice on matters of crofting and agricultural law. The recently appointed silk Steven Stuart QC is described as “very able”, joining his colleagues Roy Martin QC, Gordon Steele QC and Raymond Doherty QC to rank highly in matters of planning, environment and licensing law. Ralph Smith QC ranks in intellectual property and Rory Anderson QC in specialised medical negligence litigation. David Bartos is described as “meticulous” throughout his wide practice. 

For further information on the Legal 500 entries, click here.