Chambers and Partners - current edition:

"This is a leading York-based private client firm with a niche specialism in traditional agricultural matters. The practice has had a busy year, handling numerous high-value farm sales in the region. It is also experienced in CAP reform, the disposal of land and tax planning. Observers say head of property Lyn Rickatson possesses "a much greater breadth of agricultural expertise than anybody else in Yorkshire." She is renowned for her representation of farmers in tenancy agreements and for her knowledge of the diversification of farming interests."

"The York-based practice remains a popular choice for private client work, as its lengthy client list including wealthy individuals, landowners and charities, testifies. The group is particularly well known for dealing with the concerns of ecclesiastical institutions. Christopher Goodway is the main contact in a team that handles a variety of work such as trusts, wills, probate, tax planning and powers of attorney."

Chambers and Partners - previous editions:

"Specialising in traditional private client services, Grays’ wills, trusts, and tax planning practice in York provides "serious, technical, joined-up expertise" for private individuals, landowners, farmers, companies, schools, charities and ecclesiastical institutions."

"Head of the property department Lyn Rickatson has a farming background and is widely regarded as an "extremely knowledgeable and sensible practitioner," popular for her direct manner. She specialises in advising on farm and estate diversification, and complex commercial and agricultural transactions."

"According to interviewees, the "brilliant commercial lawyers" lawyers housed at this firm ensures that it is a prime contender for clients based in Yorkshire and further afield."

"A client base mainly comprised of landowners sees the team busy on landlord and tenant issues, as well as on the inevitably complex conveyancing in the light of the CAP review - a field in which the firm has seen referrals from other firms calling upon its expertise. The team has also been advising on diversification issues, and the specific requirements of its institutional landowning clients"

"Lyn Rickatson "definitely knows her stuff" and is regionally recognised as an expert on the implications of CAP review. Market commentators also endorsed her work on tenancy issues and specific rural issues such a shoots."