HCR Law ranked top UK legal adviser for M&A deals

HCR Law retains its position as the UK’s top legal adviser for mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in Experian’s MarketIQ H1 2025 report.

While the report notes a slowdown in overall M&A activity in the first half of the year compared to 2024, HCR’s Corporate team remains the go-to legal adviser for businesses across the UK for M&A. Against a challenging market backdrop, HCR’s reputation for specialist expertise and a client-centred approach has led to the Corporate team delivering a significant volume of high value deals.

Holding first position by a significant 43 deal margin, the results underscore HCR’s national presence and further establish its reputation as the trusted adviser in corporate law.

Regional results are equally strong. Following the success of the Q1 2025 report, the firm continues to be ranked first for M&A deals in London, the South East, South West and East of England.

HCR also maintains its first place position for the Midlands, shortly after receiving a double nomination for its M&A expertise in the region at this year’s Insider Midlands Dealmakers Awards.

Wales keeps its third place ranking while the North East region is listed in the top 10 for M&A deals in the region.

Richard Wilkey, Head of Corporate at HCR Law, said: “HCR Law consistently ranks highly for M&A activity in the country and we’re thrilled to be recognised as the top legal adviser for M&A deals once more.

“While the UK M&A market has faced its challenges, these latest rankings demonstrate our commitment to delivering trusted advice to clients at this key stage in their business journey. We approach every transaction with the highest level of commitment, whether supporting a multi-acquisition strategy of an international organisation or advising a family-owned business. These moments are often defining for our clients, and we’re deeply grateful for their continued trust in allowing us to act as an extension of their team.

“Our Corporate team continues to grow across England and Wales, with significant senior appointments this year, further demonstrating the strength of the department as we move into the second half of the year.”

The full rankings for HCR in H1 2025 are:

• United Kingdom – 1st
• London – 1st
• South East – 1st
• South West – 1st
• East of England – 1st
• Midlands – 1st
• Wales – 3rd
• North West – 9th