In conversation with PKF Francis Clark

With over a century of expertise behind them, PKF Francis Clark continues to be a key partner to the South West’s legal sector.

The firm is the largest independent accountancy practice in the region, with more than 900 staff and over 60 partners. From offices in Southampton to Truro, including Bristol, Plymouth and Exeter, PKF Francis Clark provides audit, tax, and advisory services to a wide range of businesses – including many law firms.

Now sponsoring the Law Firm of the Year (£4m+ turnover) category at the 2025 DASLS Legal Awards, it’s a fitting match for a company with deep ties to the professional services industry.

Andrew Allen, Partner and Head of the firm’s Professional Practices team – and a DASLS Awards judge – says the award embodies values that PKF Francis Clark holds dear: ambition, growth and outstanding client service.

“We work with a huge number of law firms across the region, from sole practitioners through to national outfits, and have a real appreciation of the challenges and opportunities within the legal profession,” he says. “Recognising those who are excelling feels like the right fit for us.”

As a returning judge for DASLS, he’s been impressed by the high calibre of entries.

“The best entries in this category give a sense of the firm’s overall direction – not just what they’ve achieved, but how and why. It’s also great to see firms involving a wider team in the process – that’s often a sign of strong internal culture.”

PKF Francis Clark has long supported legal clients with everything from succession planning and incorporation to benchmarking and acquisition strategy. The focus, he says, is on advice that reflects the realities of legal practice.

“It’s not just about generic numbers on a spreadsheet. We want firms to feel confident in the decisions they’re making, whether they’re thinking about selling or simply want to become more efficient.”

That ethos extends to legal support teams too. “The legal sector is a fantastic place to build a career – and support teams are often the glue holding it all together. There are so many great examples of people who’ve started in support roles and gone on to leadership positions.”

Beyond its advisory work, PKF Francis Clark is an active part of the communities it serves. The firm has been recognised as a Top 20 in the UK's Best Workplaces and is one of the top apprenticeship providers in the region. Staff are encouraged to take part in volunteering days, and many sit on boards or act as trustees for local charities, chambers of commerce and schools.

The firm also supports local colleges with placements, career talks and guidance on financial wellbeing. “It’s very much a people business,” said Andrew. “We invest heavily in soft skills and development – just like many of the law firms we work with.”

With just days to go until the big night, PKF Francis Clark is looking forward to the celebrations, “It’s a great opportunity to acknowledge some of the amazing work that’s happening across Devon and Somerset, and I’m sure it’ll be a brilliant evening.”