Multilingual Law Firm
When dealing with legal issues in the UK, it can be both difficult and frustrating to understand circumstances if English is not your first language.
A study into language barriers to legal advice found that some people were put off seeking help due to a language barrier because they could not speak English.
Although we are not a formal translation service, Smith Partnership is proud to have multilingual staff members who can help you break down potential language barriers.
With our team speaking various languages, you can be assured that you will receive legal advice in the best format for you.
Find out more about the various languages spoken amongst our team below.
Speak Hindi?
Looking to better understand your legal situation in Hindi? Smith Partnership are on hand to help you with whatever you may need.
Legal Secretary | Family
Shabana Abdulla
Legal Secretary
Practice areas
I just want to say thank you to you all. You really made a really positive difference in not only my life, but that of my son and my wife! You guys are legends!
Need legal support in Spanish?
Feel reassured as a Spanish speaker with our multilingual team.
New Business Assistant | Business Development
Martina Singh
New Business Assistant
Practice areas
With the New Business Development team we support the growth of the law firm by preparing client files onboarding them with attention to details in Identity and conflict checks. I have worked on a Transfer of Equity file where the Power of Attorney and Court of Protection documents were involved, this was quite a difficult case as I’ve recently started working In the firm, but thanks to teamwork and the Conveyancing Solicitors I was able to open the case smoothly and complete the onboarding process.
I am currently doing the LPC at Nottingham Trent University. I hopefully be able to specialise in Residential and Commercial Property soon.
Supervisor:
Positivity! I always tend to be positive even when things get difficult, I try to be as much helpful as I can especially when teamwork is needed. I am a very happy and sociable person so my colleagues can always count on me if they need a friend or someone to talk to. I take quite seriously my job as I would like to become a solicitor soon!
Languages:
I speak 5 languages:
- Italian
- English
- Spanish
- Punjabi
- French
I have been studying them since high school, and always trying to develop them!
As an Italian, I love to eat (especially pasta and pizza or a nice aperitivo). But most of all, I love travelling. When I am free, I like to visit new places, and countries and learn about new cultures. I am also very into fashion; I always have a Vogue magazine in my bag and dream to have a closet like Carrie Bradshaw.
Looking for a lawyer who speaks Russian?
If Russian is your preferred language, at Smith Partnership we have team members who can speak, read and write with you.
Trainee Solicitor | Wills and Probate
Viktorija Aleksejeva
Trainee Solicitor
Practice areas
I am currently completing my training seat in the Private Client team, working on a range of matters including Estate Planning, Wills, Probate and Lasting Powers of Attorney. Prior to this, I spent six months in Residential Conveyancing as a Trainee Solicitor, which has provided a valuable foundation for my current work.
Supervisor:
My colleagues say I am a quick learner, kind, very helpful and very approachable.
I like to describe myself as happy and positive.
Languages:
I can speak, read, write and translate Lithuanian and Russian.
I am a very hardworking person who always wants to help. I love doing charitable and volunteering work in the community.
I have a little girl who is my world, I’m happily engaged and I enjoy country walks with our Pug, Joey.
Viktorija and Michelle,
We just wanted to say again a huge thank you for your work on our sale and purchase - we we're really pleased with the service we received and we will recommend you to friends and family.
Thank you
Viktorija has been a great help, attempting to assist and resolve a historical and outstanding issue surrounding a previous house purchase we made. Despite not dealing with the transaction initially, Viktorija has taken ownership of my enquiry, taking it upon herself to assist wherever possible without delay. I would highly recommended using this firm and more specifically, Viktorija, for any property purchase or sale.
Viktorija has been a great help, attempting to assist and resolve a historical and outstanding issue surrounding a previous house purchase we made. Despite not dealing with the transaction initially, Viktorija has taken ownership of my enquiry, taking it upon herself to assist wherever possible without delay. I would highly recommended using this firm and more specifically, Viktorija, for any property purchase or sale.
Just to say a big thanks to Smith Partnership and Tania and Viktorija in particular for helping us with the sale and purchase of properties. The service we received was excellent and made a difficult process easier to get through. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone wanting some help with the sale and purchase of property.
I recently used Smith Partnership for the sale of my house, and I couldn't be happier with the service I received. The team was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and proactive throughout the entire process. They made sure all the necessary paperwork was in order and kept me updated at every stage. I highly recommend SP for their professionalism.
Thank you for answering my questions, I found the session really enlightening. My peers and I gained a better understanding of the realities of working within the legal profession.
Thank you so much for making this process so easy for us. We will thoroughly recommend you to others should the situation occur.
Very pleased with the service from the team at Smith Partnership, especially Tania, Maisie and Vicky. Everyone was so efficient and easy to work with. Considering we live remotely it was a really smooth process. Thank you!
Quick reply. Very professional. Happy to recommend!
The Smith Partnership's team of conveyancers, particularly Bhakti Parmar, were very helpful during our transaction for our first home. She was able to efficiently sort all of our paperwork out, as well as keep us updated on the process. My only criticism would be lack of communication when going on annual leave; but other than that I would highly recommend! Also, it is worth mentioning Bhakti's associate Viktorija who we liaised with on completion day. She kept us informed regularly, and was more than helpful when things didn't go to plan on the day. Thank you both very much!
Smiths made my home sale go smoothly; despite the usual length of these things, Vik my paralegal was exceptional. Professional, kind and very empathic. I couldn't recommend Smith Partnership highly enough.
Excellent support and communication from paralegals (Vicky) when dealing with the sale of my property.
We have used Smith Partnership on a few previous occasions and found them very professional so we decided to use them again for the sale of our property and the purchase of a new property. Vicky at the Derby office has been really good and kept us informed at every stage of the process, answering any queries we had promptly. We can’t thank Vicky enough for all her hard work behind the scenes.
Just wanted to say a very big thank you for making our first move smooth. We appreciate it very much.
Legal services in Italian
Communicate confidently about your legal matters in Italian with our multilingual team at Smith Partnership.
New Business Assistant | Business Development
Martina Singh
New Business Assistant
Practice areas
With the New Business Development team we support the growth of the law firm by preparing client files onboarding them with attention to details in Identity and conflict checks. I have worked on a Transfer of Equity file where the Power of Attorney and Court of Protection documents were involved, this was quite a difficult case as I’ve recently started working In the firm, but thanks to teamwork and the Conveyancing Solicitors I was able to open the case smoothly and complete the onboarding process.
I am currently doing the LPC at Nottingham Trent University. I hopefully be able to specialise in Residential and Commercial Property soon.
Supervisor:
Positivity! I always tend to be positive even when things get difficult, I try to be as much helpful as I can especially when teamwork is needed. I am a very happy and sociable person so my colleagues can always count on me if they need a friend or someone to talk to. I take quite seriously my job as I would like to become a solicitor soon!
Languages:
I speak 5 languages:
- Italian
- English
- Spanish
- Punjabi
- French
I have been studying them since high school, and always trying to develop them!
As an Italian, I love to eat (especially pasta and pizza or a nice aperitivo). But most of all, I love travelling. When I am free, I like to visit new places, and countries and learn about new cultures. I am also very into fashion; I always have a Vogue magazine in my bag and dream to have a closet like Carrie Bradshaw.
Professional legal services offered in Urdu?
If you would prefer to communicate in Urdu regarding a legal matter, our staff are here to ease the process.
Associate | Conveyancing
Legal Secretary | Family
Taqhdees Mahmood
Associate
Practice areas
I am an Associate in the Residential Property Department and have been qualified for over 5 years.
I specialise in all aspects of conveyancing, including sales, purchases, remortgages, and transfers of equity. I am committed to providing clear, practical advice and a smooth, efficient service tailored to each client's individual needs.
Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or simply looking to remortgage your home, I aim to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible. I pride myself on being approachable, responsive, and proactive in driving transactions forward.
Qualification year:
Admitted to the roll of Solicitor on 3rd February 2020.
Supervisor:
I enjoy working collaboratively with colleagues across the firm and pride myself on being approachable, dependable, and committed to achieving the best outcomes for our clients.
Languages:
I can understand and speak Punjabi and Urdu.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, trying out new recipes in the kitchen, and exploring different cuisines. I'm always up for a good travel adventure and enjoy discovering new places whenever I can.
Shabana Abdulla
Legal Secretary
Practice areas
I just want to say thank you to you all. You really made a really positive difference in not only my life, but that of my son and my wife! You guys are legends!
Trusted advice in Cantonese
Get the legal guidance you need in Cantonese. Our multilingual staff are here to help you understand your circumstances clearly.
Paralegal | Conveyancing
Olive Wong
Paralegal
Practice areas
I currently work for the new business team- file opening, quoting. I worked in Conveyancing admin for just under 4 years before coming to Smith Partnership.
Supervisor:
My friends/colleagues always say I am funny but not on purpose due to my language barrier. I am very shy to strangers but once I am closer to them, I show more of my fun side.
Languages:
English – fluent
Cantonese- fluent
Mandarin- can speak, understand but rusty
I recently married, we have a lovely 2 years old Tri colour Border collie boy called Jesse. I love reading and we spend a lot of weekends travelling down south to see our friends.
Excellent service from Bhakti, with support from Olive and the rest of the Team at the Derby Office.
Both Bhakti and Olive Wong in particular were professional, attentive and helpful in getting my sale to completion - thank you.
Legal Expertise in Gujarati
If you are apprehensive to seek legal advice because Gujarati is your spoken language, do not worry. Speak to our fluent team members today.
Senior Associate | Family
Shameela Chopdat
Senior Associate
Practice areas
I qualified as a Solicitor in 2011 and have since specialised in all areas of family law including (but not limited to) divorce, financial settlements, issues regarding children and cohabitation disputes.
I combine my expertise with empathy to ensure clients feel confident and supported every step of the way.
I am also a member of Resolution which promotes resolving matters in a constructive non-confrontational manner.
Accreditations
- Wiselaw Leading Lawyer
- Resolution
Qualification year:
Admitted to the roll of Solicitor on 1st December 2011.
Supervisor:
I like to think I am a good listener, and this coupled with my caring and compassionate approach, helps build an excellent rapport with clients.
I am also a big team player and am happy to help my colleagues in any way.
Languages:
I can speak and translate Gujarati and Urdu.
I am mum to three beautiful boys who keep me busy outside of work.
I also enjoy a bit of retail therapy, eating out and travelling whenever I can.
Shameela Chopdat acted for me in drawing up a Pre Nup agreement. Despite a few twisty turney pensions arrangements, all was completed satisfactorily in the timeline. Would recommend.
I used Shameela and smith partnership for both our house purchase and more importantly for a family law case. The team for both items are brilliant. Excellent communication and made all the legal stuff easy to understand, I cannot recommend them enough!
I just want to say thank you to you all. You really made a really positive difference in not only my life, but that of my son and my wife! You guys are legends!
I wanted to thank Shameela who has worked on my case. She is highly professional and very approachable and I got the results I wanted very quickly and would highly recommend her. Thanks again for the good work.
I was recommended by a friend to use Smiths Partnership for a family matter. Shameela has been my solicitor for the 8 months and she has been fantastic. I would highly recommend. Everyone is so friendly and helpful. Couldn’t thank Shameela enough.
Very happy with the level of care and service from Shameela during my divorce proceedings. From my very first meeting with Shameela she took the time to explain things to me in great detail and answer any questions I had. The whole process I believe was conducted in a quick manner and she was honest and did not cause unnecessary costs I feel I was treated very fairly and I would recommend Shameela to anyone needing her professional services.
Shameela was very helpful and professional and gave me really valuable advice. She really put me at ease at a difficult time. So thankyou.
Shameela was my grandma’s solicitor. We were very happy with the service provided and got the best outcome. Thanks!
Shameela has been an incredible support throughout my legal matters. Her calming demeanor was exactly what I needed during a very stressful time, and she was always available to discuss any concerns I had. When things became overwhelming, she was able to explain the legal side of things clearly, supporting me to have a good understanding of the process. She consistently responded to my emails quickly and provided clear, helpful advice. I’m truly grateful for her professionalism and efficiency. I would definitely recommend Shameela to anyone in need of a solicitor who is not only knowledgeable but also genuinely supportive.
I am extremely satisfied with the service I received from Shameela and her team. Their professionalism, dedication, and expertise truly set them apart. From the outset, Shameela made me feel heard and understood, always taking the time to explain the intricacies of my case in a way that was clear and reassuring. Her attention to detail and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. Communication was seamless and timely, with regular updates and prompt responses to any queries I had. I highly recommend Shameela to anyone in need of legal assistance.
Shameela handled my case for my daughter and was amazing throughout. I now see my daughter what feels like all the time and it’s all thanks to her. Already recommended to others.
Prefer to discuss your case in Greek?
Meet our Greek-speaking staff who are on-hand to help you better understand your legal circumstances.
Solicitor Apprentice | Commercial Property
Marketing Assistant | Business Development
Ellie Saroglou
Solicitor Apprentice
Practice areas
I joined Smith Partnership in October 2023, having graduated university with a law degree in July 2023.
My day-to-day tasks whilst assisting with commercial property matters can include anything from opening new files, closing completed cases, making the necessary ID checks for clients, or obtaining numerous documents whether that be from the Land Registry or Companies House.
Supervisor:
I like being prompt and thorough with all my tasks. Also, reliability to work well within the team as well as independently.
Languages:
I can speak, read, write and translate Greek and Polish.
Travelling to a new destination each year, weekend trips away and taking my dogs out for long walks are some of my favourite activities.
Nicole Saroglou
Marketing Assistant
Practice areas
Business Development
I recently joined Smith Partnership as a Marketing Assistant, having just graduated university in July 2024.
My role is to support the firm’s business development strategies. I assist with the organisation of networking and charity events, as well as with additional marketing projects the team is working on.
Supervisor:
A friendly, positive attitude and a willingness to take on any tasks.
Languages:
I can read, write, speak and translate Greek.
I particularly enjoy travelling abroad, spending time with family and friends, and taking long nature walks with my dogs.
In my spare time, I also like to read, journal and watch movies.
Trusted legal advice in Lithuanian?
Have you struggled to find a law firm who can speak with you in Lithuanian? Please get in touch today.
Trainee Solicitor | Wills and Probate
Viktorija Aleksejeva
Trainee Solicitor
Practice areas
I am currently completing my training seat in the Private Client team, working on a range of matters including Estate Planning, Wills, Probate and Lasting Powers of Attorney. Prior to this, I spent six months in Residential Conveyancing as a Trainee Solicitor, which has provided a valuable foundation for my current work.
Supervisor:
My colleagues say I am a quick learner, kind, very helpful and very approachable.
I like to describe myself as happy and positive.
Languages:
I can speak, read, write and translate Lithuanian and Russian.
I am a very hardworking person who always wants to help. I love doing charitable and volunteering work in the community.
I have a little girl who is my world, I’m happily engaged and I enjoy country walks with our Pug, Joey.
Viktorija and Michelle,
We just wanted to say again a huge thank you for your work on our sale and purchase - we we're really pleased with the service we received and we will recommend you to friends and family.
Thank you
Viktorija has been a great help, attempting to assist and resolve a historical and outstanding issue surrounding a previous house purchase we made. Despite not dealing with the transaction initially, Viktorija has taken ownership of my enquiry, taking it upon herself to assist wherever possible without delay. I would highly recommended using this firm and more specifically, Viktorija, for any property purchase or sale.
Viktorija has been a great help, attempting to assist and resolve a historical and outstanding issue surrounding a previous house purchase we made. Despite not dealing with the transaction initially, Viktorija has taken ownership of my enquiry, taking it upon herself to assist wherever possible without delay. I would highly recommended using this firm and more specifically, Viktorija, for any property purchase or sale.
Just to say a big thanks to Smith Partnership and Tania and Viktorija in particular for helping us with the sale and purchase of properties. The service we received was excellent and made a difficult process easier to get through. We wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to anyone wanting some help with the sale and purchase of property.
I recently used Smith Partnership for the sale of my house, and I couldn't be happier with the service I received. The team was incredibly responsive, knowledgeable, and proactive throughout the entire process. They made sure all the necessary paperwork was in order and kept me updated at every stage. I highly recommend SP for their professionalism.
Thank you for answering my questions, I found the session really enlightening. My peers and I gained a better understanding of the realities of working within the legal profession.
Thank you so much for making this process so easy for us. We will thoroughly recommend you to others should the situation occur.
Very pleased with the service from the team at Smith Partnership, especially Tania, Maisie and Vicky. Everyone was so efficient and easy to work with. Considering we live remotely it was a really smooth process. Thank you!
Quick reply. Very professional. Happy to recommend!
The Smith Partnership's team of conveyancers, particularly Bhakti Parmar, were very helpful during our transaction for our first home. She was able to efficiently sort all of our paperwork out, as well as keep us updated on the process. My only criticism would be lack of communication when going on annual leave; but other than that I would highly recommend! Also, it is worth mentioning Bhakti's associate Viktorija who we liaised with on completion day. She kept us informed regularly, and was more than helpful when things didn't go to plan on the day. Thank you both very much!
Smiths made my home sale go smoothly; despite the usual length of these things, Vik my paralegal was exceptional. Professional, kind and very empathic. I couldn't recommend Smith Partnership highly enough.
Excellent support and communication from paralegals (Vicky) when dealing with the sale of my property.
We have used Smith Partnership on a few previous occasions and found them very professional so we decided to use them again for the sale of our property and the purchase of a new property. Vicky at the Derby office has been really good and kept us informed at every stage of the process, answering any queries we had promptly. We can’t thank Vicky enough for all her hard work behind the scenes.
Just wanted to say a very big thank you for making our first move smooth. We appreciate it very much.
Looking for Mirpuri speaking solicitors?
If Mirpuri is your spoken language, our team can help you navigate your legal situation with confidence and understanding.
Associate | Conveyancing
Taqhdees Mahmood
Associate
Practice areas
I am an Associate in the Residential Property Department and have been qualified for over 5 years.
I specialise in all aspects of conveyancing, including sales, purchases, remortgages, and transfers of equity. I am committed to providing clear, practical advice and a smooth, efficient service tailored to each client's individual needs.
Whether you're a first-time buyer, a seasoned investor, or simply looking to remortgage your home, I aim to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible. I pride myself on being approachable, responsive, and proactive in driving transactions forward.
Qualification year:
Admitted to the roll of Solicitor on 3rd February 2020.
Supervisor:
I enjoy working collaboratively with colleagues across the firm and pride myself on being approachable, dependable, and committed to achieving the best outcomes for our clients.
Languages:
I can understand and speak Punjabi and Urdu.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, trying out new recipes in the kitchen, and exploring different cuisines. I'm always up for a good travel adventure and enjoy discovering new places whenever I can.
Legal Services Offered
Smith Partnership has a wide range of specialisms for both individuals and businesses. For example, we can help you with:
Legal Services for Individuals
- Child care solicitors
- Contentious probate solicitors
- Criminal law and criminal defence solicitors
- Employment law solicitors
- Family law solicitors
- Landlord and tenant solicitors
- Medical and clinical negligence solicitors
- Mediation Services
- Motoring solicitors
- Personal injury solicitors
- Professional negligence solicitors
- Residential conveyancing solicitors
- Settlement agreement solicitors
- Wills and probate solicitors
Legal Services for Businesses
- Aviation lawyers
- Pub and brewery services
- Business debt recovery services
- Business defence solicitors
- Business insolvency solicitors
- Commercial property solicitors
- Real estate dispute solicitors
- Corporate and commercial law solicitors
- Dispute resolution solicitors
- Employment solicitors for businesses
- Sport solicitors
Locations Served
As well as having a multilingual team, we also serve a wide range of areas across the East Midlands and Staffordshire, ensuring people have access to honest and professional legal advice.
We have offices in Derby, Swadlincote, Leicester, Stoke-on-Trent and Burton Upon Trent.















