HCR LAW’S Wye Valley office in Ross-on-Wye is rounding off a strong year of expansion and achievement, with national recognition, new talent joining the team, and an open invitation to the local business community to share in some festive cheer this December.

The firm, which continues to strengthen its presence across the region, has welcomed newly qualified solicitor Harun Rafiq to its Corporate team. Based at Overross House in Ross-on-Wye, Harun advises on mergers and acquisitions and corporate governance, supporting shareholders, directors and companies through often complex business transactions.

Reflecting on what first drew him to the profession, Harun said his interest in law began with its variety and adaptability: “Almost every area of life and society involves legislation and requires lawyers,” he said. “That means I can align my skills and interests with an area of law that suits me.”

Having qualified earlier this autumn, Harun said he’s excited to meet local clients and learn more about the business ambitions of companies across the Wye Valley and the wider region. He added: “I’m looking forward to helping clients achieve their goals and seeing how HCR can be a strategic partner in that journey.”

The arrival of new talent comes as HCR Law enjoys national recognition in the Legal 500 2026 rankings, where it was once again named a Top Tier firm. The respected legal directory, which evaluates firms across the UK based on client and peer feedback, praised HCR’s growth and specialist sector strength.

This year’s rankings saw the firm achieve a record 70 firmwide rankings and 65 individual lawyer recognitions, including 10 first-time practice area listings and eight tier improvements. HCR’s Corporate and Commercial team retained its Tier 1 status in the West Midlands and Birmingham.

Other standout successes included the firm’s Family practice, which achieved recognition across England and Wales, and its Cardiff office, where the Agriculture and Estates team rose to Tier 1. Meanwhile, HCR’s London office continued to perform strongly in specialist areas such as Insurance and Partnership law.

As part of its continued commitment to client engagement, HCR Law’s experts have also been sharing timely insights on national policy developments, including the upcoming November Budget.

With Chancellor Rachel Reeves expected to unveil one of the most consequential fiscal statements in recent years, HCR’s analysis explores possible reforms to capital gains, inheritance, property and pension taxation.

The firm suggests that while the government is unlikely to raise income tax, National Insurance, or VAT, it may focus on wealth, property and unearned income to balance the books.

These potential changes could have significant implications for individuals, investors and business owners, highlighting the importance of timely professional advice in uncertain times.

To cap off what has been a landmark year, HCR Law will host its annual Wye Valley Festive Drinks at its Ross-on-Wye office on Wednesday, December 17, from 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

The event will bring together clients, local professionals and community partners for an evening of hot chocolate, mince pies and conversation under twinkling lights in the firm’s courtyard.