Our heritage

More than 120 years of legal insight link today’s Steele Raymond to the firms that came before it.

The story begins in 1898, when George Raymond became a partner at Luff Raymond Williams in Bournemouth. Three generations of Raymonds helped shape the firm across the twentieth century. In 1987, that legacy continued when John Raymond, having built his career at McKenna & Co in London, returned to the South Coast with a clear vision: to offer London-quality commercial legal advice from a regional base. Steele Raymond was born of that ambition – to meet growing demand for sharper, business-led legal support without clients needing to head to the capital. 

That principle – demand-led growth, grounded in long-term relationships and regional strength – continues to define the firm today. 

From a bold beginning in 1979 to a firm recognised for its specialist expertise and client focus, Steele Raymond’s story is one of ambition, evolution and continual progress. Each milestone reflects a conscious step forward driven by a shared vision, a commitment to excellence, and a belief in the power of collaboration. This timeline captures the key moments that have shaped who we are today, and sets the pace for where we’re going next. 

1979
Foundations laid
David Steele launches his own practice, David Steele & Co.
1981
A powerful partnership forms
David Steele and John Raymond join forces to form Steele Raymond.
1987
Expanding reach
Acquisition of Luff Raymond and Williams strengthens regional presence.
2010
Modernising identity
Introduction of a new logo and design marks a fresh era.
2011
Growth through acquisition
Richards and Morgan Solicitors join the firm, expanding into Southbourne.
2015
Deepening expertise
Family team established; Property team evolves into specialist Residential and Commercial divisions.
2019
Scaling up
Steele Raymond expands into Granville Chambers, adding further office space.
2021
Sector specialism grows
Specialist Residential Development team launched to meet growing client demand.
2022
Strategic alignment
Property Disputes team established. ‘One
Firm’ vision and strategy introduced to unify direction.
2023
Client focus redefined
Private Client team becomes the Private Client group, launching three specialist teams:

– Contentious Trust & Probate
– Estate Planning & Tax
– Wills, Trusts & Probate
2025
A landmark year
Acquisition of Reeves James and creation of Construction team. New offices opened in Poundbury and Southampton. Granville Chambers expands. Rebrand unveiled with new website launch.