Top litigation award for HBJ Gateley solicitor

An Edinburgh lawyer has joined an exclusive set of litigators by achieving the top title in commercial litigation.

Neil Morrison, an associate at HBJ Gateley, was one of just two Scottish lawyers to secure Signet Accreditation at an awards ceremony in Edinburgh today.

The highly sought-after accolade has been achieved by only 13 commercial litigators since 2008; HBJ Gateley partner Stuart Clubb is another of the lawyers on the list.

The Signet Accreditation tests lawyers’ technical knowledge in their chosen fields, as well as their client focus. The award acts as a benchmark against best practice, covering a broad range of topics from ethics to commercial awareness.

During the intensive course, which takes just over a week to complete, candidates are required to achieve an average of 70 per cent across a mock video interview and written advice, two written assignments and a three-hour exam.

Mr Morrison said: “The Signet Accreditation is one of, if not the, highest honour a commercial litigator can attain. The exams are all-encompassing and an objective assessment of your technical and soft skills. I’m exceptionally proud to have achieved the award.”

Simon Catto, head of HBJ Gateley’s litigation practice, said: “The Signet Accreditation is increasingly recognised as the gold standard in litigation. Passing this qualification is a notable accomplishment – everyone in the firm is extremely pleased for Neil.

“He joins another of our litigators, Stuart Clubb, in achieving the award. It’s very rare to have two accredited solicitors in one department, underlining HBJ Gateley’s commitment to developing our people and providing the best service to our clients.”

Mr Morrison joined HBJ Gateley in May 2015, having spent more than three years at MBM Commercial LLP. He holds an LLB (Hons) in Scots law from the University of Dundee, a Diploma in Professional Legal Practice from the University of Glasgow (GGSL), and a LLM in commercial law from the University of Edinburgh.