Langleys, the York-based law firm, today announced the promotion of nine associate solicitors to partners and two solicitors to associate level.

The newly-promoted team includes specialists in insurance claims, commercial disputes, commercial property, wills and probate, criminal proceedings and personal injury.

The promotions come as Langleys is ranked 147th by size in the Legal 500 this year, an increase of 29 places from 2004. The firm received recognition across a range of departments, with a total of five partners being identified as leaders in their fields.

Langleys' insurance law department accounts for three partner promotions. They are: Simon Gibson, who has been with the firm for four years and handles public liability, road traffic accident claims and health and safety prosecutions; Rebecca Howitt, who joined Langleys in 1998 and deals primarily with employer's liability, health and safety law and related prosecutions; and Roger Mackle, who handles a range of employer's liability, public liability, road traffic cases, local authority and cost litigation. He has been with the firm for the past six years.

Two promotions within the commercial team include Jonathan Mortimer and Emma Storry. Jonathan heads up the dispute resolution department and has 14 years experience, is listed in the Legal 500 and deals with all commercial matters.

Emma joined the firm in 1998 and has built up a portfolio of commercial property clients across a broad range of industry sectors.

Partner promotions in the private client department include Jeremy Scott, head of crime, David Garfitt, head of conveyancing, Peter Morris, head of the family law department, and Stuart Hanley, head of the clinical and personal injury team.

Mark Roberts, a member of the corporate department, and Simon Massey, of Langley's commercial property department, are both promoted to associate solicitors.

Mike Williamson, managing partner at Langleys, said: "Our legal team continues to grow from strength to strength and we consistently have a high level of talent on board. I am delighted to welcome all new partners and associate solicitors to their new roles."

Updated: 10:31 Wednesday, October 05, 2005