One of Dorset’s longest serving solicitors has retired after a distinguished legal career spanning six decades.

Hugh Craig stepped down after 57 years of service in the profession – including the last 11 years as a Consultant Solicitor in Business Services at Ellis Jones Solicitors. 

Hugh called it a day with the best wishes of colleagues from Ellis Jones’ six offices ringing in his ears.

Nigel Smith, Managing Partner, said: “Hugh has been a tremendous credit to the legal profession over many decades.

“It is unlikely that there are many solicitors with his depth of experience and expertise who have accomplished so much during their professional careers.

“It has been a privilege for all at Ellis Jones to work alongside Hugh for the past 11 years and be able to draw upon his advice and guidance.

“My sincere thanks go to Hugh on behalf of Ellis Jones for all he has done for the firm and its clients.

“He will be sorely missed and our very best wishes go to him for a long and enjoyable retirement.”

Hugh consistently received independent endorsement of his expertise in The Legal 500 guide.

He was named as a Recommended Lawyer for Business Services in the 2022 edition where he was recognised for his work on equity investments and described as a ‘veteran transactional lawyer’.

Hugh said: “I will be forever grateful for the opportunities and long career for which I have been given by the law and to Ellis Jones for enabling me to extend and finish my career in such a progressive firm with so many positive and friendly colleagues.”

Hugh read law at the University of Cambridge’s Downing College and graduated in 1962. He joined a Liverpool firm, Laces, for his traineeship and qualified as a solicitor in 1965.

Hugh moved to London in the mid-60s, joining Coward Chance, now Clifford Chance, where he stayed until 1970 when he joined Bates Wells.

Over the next 35 years Hugh worked as a corporate lawyer, senior partner and head of the company commercial department of Bates Wells until he retired as a partner and became a Consultant Solicitor with Ellis Jones.

Ellis Jones has more than 170 staff including 21 partners in five offices in Bournemouth, Poole, Ringwood, Swanage and Wimborne as well as London.

PICTURE: VETERAN: Hugh Craig has spent 57 years in the legal profession, including the last 11 at regional law firm Ellis Jones Solicitors