Devonshires Recognised as an “Excellent Performer” in Chambers Student 2026

We’re immensely proud to announce that Devonshires has been recognised in the Chambers Student 2026 guide, ranking as an Excellent Performer in the following categories:

• Most Satisfied Trainees
• Training & Development
• Supervision & Contact Time
• Hours & Work-Life Balance
• Qualification

This recognition is a testament to our ongoing commitment to supporting Trainees, providing meaningful experiences with opportunity to grow, and maintaining a positive working environment for all.

Chris Drabble reflects on this by saying:

“what’s important is that, even with the firm’s growth, we haven’t lost our DNA and we’re still a friendly, approachable firm at all levels.”

During Chris’ four-year tenure as Training Principal, Devonshires’ Trainee cohort has doubled in size, our Birmingham training offering was established, assessment centres and the vacation scheme were introduced, and the SQE route to qualification was successfully integrated into our training contract provision.

Many Trainees have highlighted being given the opportunity to show their strengths and the hands-on approach which they’re afforded during their training period:

“I have full responsibility of all my matters…I will go to court and sit in on proceedings, and that’s always quite fascinating.”

Others have expressed the value of being part of a positive working environment, with one Trainee commenting:

“I can’t rave enough about it! It’s an inclusive, friendly and family feeling firm, they’ve got your best interests at heart, I’d recommend it to anyone.”

We’re delighted to see our values reflected in the feedback from our Trainees and in the recognition by Chambers Student. To find out more on what our Trainees thought of their experience, please read: Devonshires’ Chambers Student True Picture article

Helen Curtis takes up the role of Training Principal

A big part of the success of Devonshires’ training contract has been thanks to the role of our Training Principal, which we’re pleased to announce will now be taken up by Helen Curtis.

Helen joined the firm in February 2022 and is dual-qualified in the UK and USA. Heading up the Corporate team at Devonshires, Helen’s work surrounds business acquisitions and disposals, investment rounds, MBOs and restructuring, as well as other corporate work. She looks forward to working closely with our Trainees as she takes over responsibilities from Chris Drabble.

Chris will remain active in our Trainee programme and will continue to be available as an additional point of contact and support for Trainees.