Stewarts Law sees profits soar 42% as partners enjoy major pay rises
The highest-paid partner at Stewarts Law LLP received £2.6 million after the firm reported a 42% rise in operating profit to £61.8 million for the financial year ending 30 April 2025.
The London and Leeds-based litigation specialist recorded a 22% increase in revenue to £111.6 million. The firm, which focuses on commercial disputes, family law, and high-value serious injury and clinical negligence claims, employs 351 people across its two offices.
According to newly filed accounts, the profit entitlement of the firm’s top earner rose from £1.77 million to £2.6 million, representing a 49% increase. The total profit share for the firm’s executive committee grew from £15 million to £24 million, reflecting a sharp rise in profitability.
Stewarts Law also reported that the average remuneration for its 92 members increased by 27% to almost £690,000.
The results mark another strong year under managing partner Stuart Dench, who took over leadership of the firm in 2022. Dench previously served as head of business development and marketing for over two decades before being appointed to the top role.
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Since taking charge, Dench has overseen significant growth in both revenue and profit. He has also been recognised in the Spear’s Power List since 2023, which highlights the 100 most influential individuals shaping the future of private wealth.
The firm’s focus on high-value, complex litigation has continued to drive strong returns in the private client and corporate dispute markets. The surge in profits underscores Stewarts Law’s position as one of the leading independent litigation firms in the UK.
The growth in profitability has translated into record partner earnings, with the top-performing partner receiving a near-£1 million increase in profit entitlement.
In a separate development, Carpenters Limited, a Birkenhead-based personal injury firm operating in a different segment of the market, also reported strong financial results. The firm more than doubled its operating profit to £2.3 million for calendar year 2024, while turnover increased by 15% to £64.6 million.
Carpenters attributed its revenue growth to securing new contracts and completing the transfer of files and staff from two insurer firms during the period.
Chief executive Donna Richards said the company’s success was supported by continued investment in technology. “During 2024 the company continued its investment in the development of technology, introducing enhanced processes and using automation where appropriate, whilst ensuring the customer experience continues to improve,” she said.
Richards added that the firm “continues to invest in AI across key parts of the operation with this scope widening,” highlighting the growing role of technology in the delivery of personal injury and claims services.
The two directors of Carpenters Limited, John Carpenter and Donna Scully, received combined remuneration of £759,155 for the year.
Both Stewarts Law and Carpenters Limited reported substantial growth against the backdrop of a challenging legal market. For Stewarts, the results underline its continued success as a top-tier litigation firm, while Carpenters’ performance reflects ongoing resilience and adaptation within the broader personal injury sector.
The latest financial filings show that the UK’s litigation and claims sectors are continuing to benefit from strategic investments, market consolidation, and an increased use of technology, contributing to stronger profitability across the board.