Leading the way on Dementia Friends Week 2019

Solicitor in the Clinical Negligence department based at Norman House. I act for clients who have suffered negligence by medical clinicians and who want to recover compensation from them. The majority of the claims are against the NHS. I tend to work on complex cases such as birth defects and maximum severity injuries and also on cases that are being litigated through to trial. I am a Court of Protection appointed Deputy. I have acted in cases involving breaches of human rights. I am also a member of the Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal and chair tribunal hearings in London. I am an Assessor to the Law Society’s Personal Injury Accreditation Panel.

I am a keen amateur baker and I try and keep my colleagues supplied with cake. (Whether the cake is any good – is open to interpretation!)

I try and maintain a sense of the ridiculous.

My interests include bridge and education. (I am a Trustee of an Educational Trust which looks after 15 Secondary and Primary Schools in the East Midlands). I was a very keen long-distance runner but health problems (and old age) have forced me to give that up. I am recovering from recent major spinal surgery. I attend a gym three times per week.

All contact with this partnership has been impressive. I liked what they wrote on their website in their statement of how they practice law, 'putting clients first', and my experience tells me they really do. My initial contact was for advice concerning medical negligence. The secretary had Patrick Booth call me back the same afternoon. I expected to pay a fee for his advice but he insisted this first consultation was free, even after I'd made clear that I was not going to take my complaint against a hospital department to court. Patrick Booth gave me precise advice concerning what to write in my initial complaint to the hospital and even offered to read this through, what I could expect as a response and advised me to escalate the matter to the CQC if the hospital's response to my complaint was unsatisfactory. He explained the further actions possible and had I the emotional fortitude to take a department's catalogue of serious error to the press, or to court, I know I would have had confidence in Mr Booth's counsel. The efficiency and friendliness of my first contact with the Smith partnership led me to Amanda, the drafting of a will and appointment of executor. Just like Patrick, Amanda ensured clarity about my intentions, was transparent about her reasonable fees and I have confidence that when the time comes, she will execute my wishes perfectly. It is reassuring that she will visit me at home to discuss the draft and will be able to photograph the location of documents and gifts at the same time. One happy client here!

Client, Medical Negligence

E: della.phillips@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 0116 2472002

F: 0116 2472012

Della Phillips

Partner & Branch Manager, Leicester

Practice areas

Childcare | Family

I am the Branch Manager of our Leicester office and am actively involved in the business development of both our private client and commercial services.

I specialise in children matters and regularly act on behalf of parents whose children are subject to local authority care proceedings, representing clients at both court hearings and during negotiations with the local authority pre-proceedings. I deal with complex cases involving non-accidental injuries, sexual abuse and issues of serious neglect and violence. I am also a member of the Law Society Children Panel and frequently represent children who are the subject of court proceedings.

I also have extensive experience in private law children matters and work with parents, grandparents and carers in applications for Child Arrangement Orders, Prohibited Steps Orders and Special Guardianship Orders.

I have also advised clients during relationship breakdowns and where there are issues of domestic violence and forced marriage. I have experience in obtaining applications for Non-Molestation and Occupation Orders for vulnerable clients.

Calm, sensitive and approachable. Always happy to help out members of the team.

In my spare time, I am a committed dancer, have a keen interest in fashion and enjoy travelling abroad.

I approached Smith Partnership during the worst time in my life. My husband had died and I had struggled with a lot of things, leading to the point where my children had just been removed by the Local Authority. I was introduced to Della who helped me through this period, which was further worsened by Covid-19. It led to delays in the legal case and difficulties around seeing my children. Throughout the whole time Della was there. Whenever I had a query, she responded quickly and where it was possible for her, she would take action to help. At times where the process was frustrating and seemed endless, Della was there to remind me that I wasn’t alone. She was always prompt and efficient in responding to me. After 18 months it was finally time for the court hearing, and Della and her team continued working to find a resolution agreeable for all parties right up until the last moment. I was very happy with the outcome, especially considering that I believed up until the end that I had absolutely no chance of ever getting my children back. But thanks to Della’s perseverance and hard work we came to a solution that gives me the opportunity to have my children back home with me in the very near future. After having lost my husband, my business, my home and then my children in a very short period of time for each other, I was so close to giving up. I couldn’t see a way where I would ever have a life or be happy again. Della and her team have given me that gift. For the first time in years I have been able to see a future for myself; one with my children in it to share with me. I cannot thank her enough for that and would recommend her to anyone.

Client, Childcare

Della, Thank you for your help and hard work throughout the nightmare time we had as a family. We appreciate everything you did for us and forever grateful. We can move on with a happy life. Thank you again.

Client, Childcare

E: fraser.cunningham@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01332 225278

Fraser Cunningham

Partner

Practice areas

Company and Commercial

I head up the Company and Commercial department overseeing a range of Corporate transactions (e.g. company/business sales and acquisitions) and restructuring work (e.g. demergers and shareholder agreements) together with a broad range of commercial contracts (e.g. Agency, Franchising, Distribution, IT, IP agreements through to terms and conditions of sale/purchase).

Recently advised on the sale of a technology company to a large Swedish Equity fund and on the restructuring of a pharmaceuticals company to facilitate the sale of a particular division.

Possibly an obsession with grammar.

Travel, Sport (golf, football, F1 in particular), property renovation

Excellent service from Fraser in the commercial team. Make the process of getting a personal guarantee signed very simple and efficient. Highly recommend.

Client, Company and Commercial - Trust Pilot

Excellent, legal service re business sale - I used the services of Smith Partnership to complete the legal side of the sell of my business. The service I received from Fraser Cunningham was first class with a personal, understanding approach. I can highly recommend.

Client, Company and Commercial - Trust Pilot

Dealt with the commercial department of Smith Partnership Solicitors. Fraser Cunningham and his team guided me through the whole process of a business acquisition which resulted in quick and efficient completion. Great service, competitive price. Highly recommend.

Client, Company and Commercial - Trust Pilot

We contacted Smith Partnership in need of independent legal advice regarding personal guarantee paperwork. Fraser Cunningham was our point of contact following our initial enquiry. From our initial emails to our in-person meeting at the Derby offices we were beyond impressed with Fraser. Down to earth, professional, efficient & knowledgeable; we knew we were in good hands & would not hesitate to use the services of Smith Partnership in the future thanks to the fantastic experience Fraser granted us with.Thank you.

Client, Company and Commercial - Trust Pilot

Fraser Cunningham has been a fantastic person to deal with over the past few years. Always prompt and helpful - nothing is too much trouble for him. Fraser is also extremely knowledgable about his subject. I can't recommend this guy enough!

Client, Company and Commercial - Trust Pilot

E: clare.buchanan@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01332 225421

F: 01332 225441

Clare Buchanan

Chief Financial Officer

Practice areas

In 2011, I joined Smith Partnership as a Practice Accountant. I’m obsessed with qualifications and continual learning and have gained my ACCA, PGDip in Legal Studies and an MBA. I am now focused on improving my softer management skills.

During my accountancy career, I have worked with a vast array of businesses, from farmers to SMEs, charity organisations and housing associations to larger firms such as JCB.

I have a wealth of knowledge in the accountancy and taxation field, along with a strong commercial knowledge developed from my roles both in practice as an accountant and business adviser and financial controller in industry.

I head up the Finance department and I am also the firm’s Compliance Officer for Finance and Administration (COFA). I am responsible for a team of seven cashiers and accounts staff who tirelessly safeguard the funds and assets of our many clients and stakeholders.

I do not consider myself a bean counter, more of a business partner who serves the staff around me to help them do the best job they can do. I have worked alongside every business discipline to improve the business model, efficiency and results of the organisation.

If you met me I am sure you would not stereotype me as a ‘boring accountant’. Although my role puts me under daily pressure along with the constant deadlines that have to be met, I try to bring fun to my team, knowing the correlation of enjoying your job and improved productivity. I am a huge team player, someone that my team thoroughly trusts. I bring a non-stop, can-do attitude to the firm, and always have a willingness to find a solution to someone’s problem and improve areas of work that need it. I hold an enormously privileged position within the firm, where I have the ability to see the finances and everything that runs alongside these. I provide continual management information and advice to senior owners and management enabling them to make decisions at the highest level.

As with most full-time working mums, I juggle my work-life balance like a magician. Somehow, I always seem to be in the right place at the right time to drop and pick up my son from football practice, matches and all the other things that go along with a young man in secondary school.

I love to travel (favourite place so far being Goa), and enjoy soaking up the different cultures and behaviours of the people I meet. People watching with my hubby is also a favourite pastime!

E: eleanor.derry@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01283 742046

F: 01283 511365

Eleanor Derry

Solicitor

Practice areas

Childcare

I am a solicitor within the Childcare team at our Burton office. I re-joined Smith Partnership having previously trained as a Solicitor in the Derby office and having worked for Smith Partnership both pre and post qualification for over 5 years previously.

I represent parents, grandparents and those involved in the care of children within Care Proceedings and the pre-proceedings (Public Law Outline) process. I represent clients at Court and at Local Authority meetings, to assist them in securing the care of their child or when decisions need to be made in respect of a child’s best interests. Often the decisions that parents or carers need to make are not easy, they can be complicated with many factors at play and advice must suit each client and child’s specific circumstances and needs, taking into account potential issues which may also present in the future.

I have represented and advised clients in cases involving non-accidental injuries, domestic violence, child neglect, mental health illness, learning disabilities, trauma, sexual abuse, drug and alcohol misuse amongst many other issues. I have represented clients who require the assistance of an interpreter, an intermediary or advocate as well as clients who are in prison or abroad and clients who are disabled or vulnerable. I have represented clients during proceedings before the High Court and where secure accommodation of a child or deprivation of liberty is concerned. I have also represented clients where there are significant cultural or immigration issues present.

In the majority of my cases my clients seek to keep their child or children in their care which is what I work to achieve, but where this is not possible consideration will be given to securing the next best option such as keeping the child placed within the wider family. Where a sibling group is concerned, consideration will need to be given to whether siblings can remain together or whether they may need to be placed separately. In some cases, clients will decide that their child would be best placed elsewhere and we will work together to secure the best possible outcome for the child, with the parent being able to maintain contact.

I bring a different background to the team having previously worked as a primary school teacher. I also bring knowledge of the Court of Protection and Inquests to the team. Knowledge of the education and healthcare sector is useful when practicing childcare law.

I am friendly, organised and professional with a good sense of humour. I provide clear, well considered advice and have a distinct dislike of injustice.

I enjoy anything creative and have a keen interest in interior design and art. I love being outside in the countryside, at the beach or gardening. I have a young dog and enjoy training and grooming him. I also enjoy supporting my local rugby team.

Eleanor, we will be forever grateful for your help. Best wishes for the future.

Client, Childcare

I just want to take a minute to thank you for everything you have done for me and my children. I'm very thankful to have you as my solicitor.

Client, Childcare

E: bally.atwal@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01332 225251

F: 01332 225444

Bally Atwal

Partner

Practice areas

Dispute Resolution | Aviation

I’m a Partner in the Dispute Resolution department specialising in general commercial and property related litigation.

I also head up the Aviation department at Smith Partnership, who deal with all aspects of aviation liability claims for and on behalf of domestic and international airlines, as well as their insurers. Matters handled by the department include the defence of passenger claims brought under the Montreal Convention 1999 in respect of personal injury and associated claims and EC Regulation 261/2004 in respect of delay/cancelled flights.

Case highlights in the last 12 months include the negotiated settlement of a claim brought by a passenger who claimed a fall and the consequent injuries, which he suffered whilst disembarking the airline client’s flight, preventing him from returning to his career as an international model. The claim was valued by the claimant’s legal team in excess of £7 million, this being the sum claimed on the court documents made up of a substantial claim for loss of earnings. With the assistance of medical and employment experts, to undermine the claimant’s expert evidence, the claim recently settled with claimant accepting a Part 36 offer of £250,000 out of time, resulting in the airline client being entitled to have its costs from the date the Part 36 offer expired, met by the claimant.

A sense of purpose… failing that, fees.

Away from work, I enjoy spending time with the family.

Armchair football fan - weak arches and a lack of ability putting paid to any aspirations of a career as a professional footballer.

Gym, yoga and fair golfer.

Bally - Thank You for all your hard work getting this matter resolved. You have truly been a rock in this whole process.

Client, Sports

Dear Bally, please may I take this opportunity to thank you for all your advice and actions bringing this case to closure. This has been a long and most difficult time for me, and to know that you have the utmost confidence in your solicitor has made it all so much better for me. I would have no hesitance in recommending you to any of my friends, should they have to go through a similar ordeal, thank you again.

Client, Dispute Resolution

Thank you very much for your assistance in this case. It was quite a challenge from time to time, but I have really appreciated your efforts, patience, kindness and expertise!

Client, Aviation

Couldn't recommend Bally Atwal enough! Very knowledgeable and informative throughout, contact was brilliant and I'm very grateful for his assistance. Efficient, friendly and very easy to work with. I used Smith Partnership for several issues that needed guidance and all were dealt with compassion and understanding.

Client, Dispute Resolution - Trust Pilot

We used Bally at Smith Partnership for a dispute resolution manner and he was extremely knowledgable, fair and thorough in all his advice and service the entire way through. I can’t recommend him and the partnership enough. He made a very stressful and emotional scenario as pain free as it could be. Thank you!

Client, Dispute Resolution - Trust Pilot

Bally was recommended to me to deal with a property contract issue. Bally was professional, knowledgable and had a very friendly approach. I'll be using Smith Partnership for any future legal advice and would have no hesitation in recommending Bally.

Client, Dispute Resolution - Trust Pilot

Bally is very informative and helpful to answer my questions. I had a one phone call and I am very satisfied with the customer service and respect. I would have reached out them bit earlier if I know about their services.

Client, Dispute Resolution - Google

E: jack.robinson@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01283 492964

F: 01283 492960

Jack Robinson

Associate

Practice areas

Wills and Probate

I first joined Smith Partnership in November 2014 as a Trainee Solicitor after successfully completing my Law degree at Staffordshire University. I always had a keen interest in Private Client work and therefore I completed an extended seat in the Private Client department at our Derby office during my training contract.

After qualifying as a Solicitor in November 2016 I took a role as a Private Client Solicitor at another firm. In April 2017, I returned to Smith Partnership and took up my current role as a Solicitor within the Private Client department based at the Burton office.

I now have a number of years experience dealing with the creation of Wills, Lasting Power of Attorneys and Trust documents. I also assist clients with Court of Protection applications and the administration of estates.

I also attend monthly Age UK advice sessions in Burton along with my colleague Kate George.

Laughter, friendliness and an approachable and supportive attitude.

Outside of work I enjoy travelling, reading and going to the theatre. I am also a keen baker and always take part in our firm’s various charity bake sales.

Dear Jack and Janice, Mark and I thank you for finalising my late wife’s estate. Your help has been especially welcome during these strange times. You are both a credit to your company.

Client, Wills and Probate

Generally speaking from our first visit to Smith Partnership the whole process has gone fairly smoothly.

Our chats on the phone were friendly but wholly professional too. This is a people management skill which is difficult face to face let alone over the phone, so thanks very much for that.

Client, Wills and Probate

We would certainly recommend the Smith Partnership to someone else. Very friendly staff who explained the whole process in a clear and understandable way.

Client, Wills and Probate

First class- I needed help with probate on my late parents estate. I was put in touch with Jack Robinson from the Burton branch. I had arranged a telephone consultation first and he called at exactly the time booked. He then guided me through what lay ahead in a friendly yet professional manor. As the process of application evolved there were several twists and turns to which Mr Robinson kept me up to date immediately and saw the whole process through to swift conclusion. In future I shall always use the Smith Partnership- and if possible, jack Robinson again from the Burton branch.

Client, Wills and Probate - Trust Pilot

Thank you very much for all your help and expertise. I have felt ‘protected’ throughout the process and now hopefully understand a little more about the complexities of these matters.

Client, Wills and Probate

E: danielle.upton@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01332 225364

F: 01332 225379

Danielle Upton

Partner

Practice areas

Commercial Property

I joined Smith Partnership in 2014 and am now a Partner within the Commercial Property team.

I service clients across the East Midlands and nationally from our offices in Derby and Burton upon Trent and I can advise on a comprehensive range of commercial property transactions including, freehold and leasehold acquisitions and disposals, secured lending and business Leases with a particular focus in the industrial and logistics market.

My clients include an award winning Covid-19 testing manufacturer, for whom I acted in connection with their acquisition of a new 80,000 sq. ft. production and distribution hub, a national Digital Brands, Marketing and Communications Agency and several local charities and SIPPs and I have an excellent track record of delivering clear and pragmatic advice.

In 2022, I was appointed as a Trustee of the Consolidated Charity of Burton upon Trent. It is thought that the charity dates back to the 16th century and its objectives are the provision of Almshouse accommodation for poor persons resident in the area of benefit and such other charitable purposes for the benefit of the residents as the Trustees decide. I am a pro-active and passionate participant of the Small Grants and Educational Sub-Committees of the charity.

In 2022, I was also shortlisted for the Rising Star category of the British Legal Awards for the work I did during the pandemic.

Great attention to detail, organisational skills and a pro-active ‘can do’ attitude.

Outside of work, I enjoy visiting National Trust properties and long walks with my Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Reggie.

I also love good food, good wine and to travel. Last year I was able to tick off one of my bucket list destinations, Jamaica!

We recently sold our family business through smiths partnership. Our solicitor Danielle Upton based at Norman house, was absolutely brilliant.

Client, Commercial Property - Google

I would happily recommend Danielle to anyone.

Client, Commercial Property - Google

We recently sold our family business through smiths partnership. our solicitor Danielle Upton based at Norman house, was absolutely brilliant. Even though it was a different time due to lockdown everything went really smoothly, every call or email was answered promptly, overall all the service provided was excellent. I would happily recommend Danielle to anyone.

Client, Commercial Property - Trust Pilot

Over the last 6 months Danielle Upton has worked on a couple of major projects for me. Firstly, setting up a lease as part of a sale agreement of my business. Secondly, preparing and negotiating the purchase of a commercial unit. During this time Danielle offered a totally professional service taking time to explain legal jargon and nothing seemed to be too much trouble. I was kept in the loop at all times and never had to follow her up. Besides a great solicitor, a fantastic lady to work with and I would have no hesitation in recommending her. Thank you.

Client, Commercial Property - Google

E: kirsty.evans@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01782 339074

F: 01782 339099

Kirsty Evans

Solicitor

Practice areas

Childcare

I am a family solicitor who specialises in Child Care cases. I qualified in 2003 and specialised in Family Law. I cover all levels of Local Authority involvement but specialise in Early Help stages.

Approachable, friendly and enthusiastic. Happy to support to other team members.

I am a married mother of two. In my spare time I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy reading and walking.

Received help from Kirsty with our situation, she was extremely helpful and supportive, always found time to answer our questions and help us understand every step. Would definitely recommend using them for any issues and will use them again should the need ever arise.

Client, Childcare

Very professional. Always kept me up to date with even what seemed like the smallest information. When my actual solicitor the other couple of ladies that stepped in to manage my case for a couple of weeks were just as amazing as my solicitor. No request was to small they always made sure things were running smoothly. My solicitor is an absolute diamond and never once judged me even in my emotional state when all she heard over the phone was mumbles amongst the tears/sobs. She was always open and honest with me in terms of any outcome. She helped to be my voice when I couldn't hold back my tears to get out what I wanted to say but due to her intense listening skills during the sobs she already had it all down my stance on the matter in hand. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I couldn't of gotten this far without you guys. Would highly recommend.

Client, Childcare

Couldn't recommend enough. Had a long running family case with these guys and they've kept me up to date every step of the way. Always been able to call and speak to my solicitor. The one I started with left, and I had Kirsty Evans take over my case and she's been just as brilliant as my first solicitor. Professional every step and got the results I wanted.

Client, Childcare

Kirsty is a fabulous solicitor.

During an extremely difficult time she helped and supported me through it. Very polite and professional. Listening to me and giving me good legal advice. Which helped to achieve a great outcome.

Knowing I had her there for support when I needed it meant a lot to me. I can’t thank her enough for what she did.

Client, Childcare

Client, Family - Google

Kirsty is a fabulous solicitor. During an extremely difficult time she helped and supported me through it. Very polite and professional. Listening to me and giving me good legal advice. Which helped to achieve a great outcome. Knowing I had her there for support when I needed it meant a lot to me. I can’t thank her enough for what she did.

Client, Childcare

E: timothy.kirk@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 0116 247 2024

F: 0116 247 2007

Timothy Kirk

Trainee Solicitor

Practice areas

Conveyancing

I am a Paralegal in our Conveyancing team in Leicester.

On a day-to-day basis I assist Marcus on all aspects of purchase, sales, transfers of equity and remortgages.

I am primarily responsible for all of our sale files, running these from file opening through to completion.

I have worked in the Conveyancing department as a Paralegal for two years.

I would like to think that my colleagues see me as approachable, funny and a team player.

I enjoy spending my time with my family, friends and most importantly my dog. I am also a keen reader of fantasy fiction.

This has been a difficult process for me having never done it before. It has also been an emotional one at times given the reasons that I am able to afford do it. Thank you both for your help in this matter, it has been invaluable. I can't express how much it has meant to me.

Client, Residential Property

I would like to convey my total satisfaction in the work that your firm has recently provided for us. In particular, the work of Timothy Kirk (Leicester branch). He has represented your company exceptionally well, with good prompt communication, excellent due diligence and an added personal touch. Thanks once again for your service and will most definitely use your services again if required.

Client, Residential Property

Thanks Timothy and his colleagues. Very helpful and responsible. Nice experience for my first time house purchasing in UK!

Client, Residential Property

We are so glad Marcus Samuel-Brown and Timothy Kirk helped us purchase our first home! They really did go above and beyond especially when we had some challenges along the way with our estate agents. Marcus and Tim were always very professional and they got the job done quickly and smoothly. They responded to our calls and emails promptly and kept us in the loop during the house purchase. Marcus is also a really nice guy and easy to talk to. I cannot recommend them enough - Marcus and Tim are the best legal team around. Thank you both for helping us with our first house purchase!

Client, Residential Property - Google

Marcus and Tim helped with my house move. You pay a little more than other places but by far get your moneys worth! They was on it every step of the way. A lot of bumps in the road and they was great! Definitely would use next time I move and would highly recommend them both. Thank you again both. Credit to the business.

Client, Residential Property - Google

Fantastic service. Marcus and Tim supported my house sale and purchase. Super quick, efficient, always responded. Nothing too much to ask for, so helpful. Would recommend them both 100%, thanks for making the process unbelievably smooth!

Client, Residential Property - Google

E: tania.douglas@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01332 225245

F: 01332 225319

Tania Douglas

Conveyancer

Practice areas

Conveyancing

I’ve recently joined Smith Partnership in April 2022 and am building my caseload, which is mainly sale transactions and transfers of equity.

I would hope they’d say I have a good sense of humour, which I try to take everywhere with me; and I’m helpful.

I enjoy spending time with my two grown up children, cooking, especially eating, I’ve been known to partake in a glass of wine or two, socialising with friends and I love decorating, which I do a lot!!

Recently i moved home, Tania Douglas at Smith Partnership dealt with both the sale and the purchase of the properties. The service supplied to me was outstanding. I was kept in the loop by Tania all the way through the process which enabled me to continue with my busy schedule. Without hesitation i would recommend Tania and Smith Partnership to anyone who is seeking legal representation. This was an exceptional service indeed, thank you.

Client, Residential Property - Trust Pilot

I had the pleasure of working with Tania Douglas at Smith Partnership Solicitors, and I cannot speak highly enough of the exceptional service I received throughout the entire process. Tania's professionalism and expertise made a wonderful difference in what turned out to be a lengthy matter. Tania consistently went above and beyond to work around my schedule, and promptly responding to my queries and concerns. Her dedication to ensuring I felt supported and comfortable throughout the process was truly commendable.

Client, Residential Property

Sold my house with Smith Partnership, mainly dealing with Tania. The process was very smooth and efficient, any queries i had were answered very quickly and i was kept up to date throughout. highly recommend.

Client, Residential Property

Tania Douglas and her team have been amazing throughout the whole process of buying a house. Always reply’s back quickly and got us moved super fast. Couldn’t recommend this company enough when moving home. Thank you guys you’ve been amazing.

Client, Residential Property - Trust Pilot

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.

Client, Residential Property - Trust Pilot

Staff were courteous and polite and dealt with my concerns almost straight away. Happy with the service of the sale of my late mother’s house. Thanks to Tania and Team.

Client, Residential Property - Trust Pilot

I was a very nervous client and was probably an annoying one asking lots of questions. Claire Betsworth was my initial point of contact and she was amazing…I was then handed over to Tania Douglas & Maisie. We did have a stumbling block with regard to the house and land registry which delayed things a few weeks, but apart from that was smooth sailing, Tania and Maisie were always at the end of the phone, updated me by email… and just generally really communicative and helpful. Definitely recommend to anyone to use Smiths Partnership. My sincere thanks to all.

Client, Residential Property - Trust Pilot

E: charlotte.hope@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01332 225263

F: 01332 225442

Charlotte Hope

Solicitor

Practice areas

Personal Injury

I am a Solicitor in the Personal Injury department. I represent Claimants in a mixture of Public liability cases, Employer's liability cases and Road Traffic Accidents, all with varying degrees of complexity.

I dedicate my time to providing a personable, straightforward and thorough service for my clients. Ensuring that each client has the bespoke service they require to secure the best possible outcome, during what is typically a difficult personal experience.

I qualified as a Solicitor in February 2022, but worked in Personal injury for the 3 years prior to qualifying. My area of specialism is Personal Injury, more specifically:

Public Liability
Employer’s Liability; and
Road Traffic Accidents

I am very organised, with a love of lists and efficient time management. I am a team player and always happy to help a colleague in need. I try to be a cheerful and positive force within the team (much to their amusement) but if that fails, I bring sweet treats!

You will usually find me cooking (and/or eating) for my friends and family. I also love an early morning visit to the gym and reading as much as I can.

Charlotte and the team have given great communication throughout the process and are doing a fantastic job, which we are very thankful for. We are very hopeful that our son will soon receive the appropriate compensation. I would highly recommend Smith Partnership to anyone wishing to pursue an injury claim.

Client, Personal Injury

This is a true and honest testimonial of the service I have received from Smith Partnership Solicitors whom I can highly recommend. The clarity and dedication shown by Charlotte my personal injuries solicitor was second to none, nothing was too much trouble, she is very knowledgeable and any questions I asked was answered quickly, putting me at ease through out the process of putting together my personal injury claim.

Client, Personal Injury

I went with smiths for a work matter. They dealt with my situation efficiently and professionally. Nothing was hard work for them, they responded to my emails quickly or if we needed to talk in person they would arrange a time that suited me. I would 100 percent recommend this solicitors for any one that was looking. And I will use them again if I ever did need them in the future. Thank you for all your help especially Charlotte hope.

Client, Personal Injury - Trust Pilot

E: bhakti.parmar@smithpartnership.co.uk

T: 01332 225248

F: 01332 225319

Bhakti Parmar

Solicitor

Practice areas

Conveyancing

I am a solicitor within the Residential Property department at Norman House, Derby. I have over 8 years of conveyancing experience and qualified as a solicitor in 2019.

I cover a broad range of matters such as freehold and leasehold purchases and sales, new builds, remortgages, transfers of equity and many more.

I am always willing to help and I bring a calm demeanour to the team.

I am very organised and have a keen eye for detail.

I enjoy spending time with my family. I have a little girl and boy who keep me busy!

I had a very positive experience with Smith Partnership and in particular, our solicitor Bhakti. She allowed for a very smooth transaction and was very professional and lovely to speak to. Will definitely be using their services again, it was the best experience I have ever had with a firm.

Client, Residential Property - Trust Pilot

I would like to thank you for the professional way in which you completed the conveyancing of Mum’s house for me and the understanding which you showed me.

Client, Residential Property

Bhakti was extremely good and did things very quickly and professionally. Thank you for everything.

Client, Residential Property - Trust Pilot

We just wanted to send a final email to thank you so much for your help and services throughout the purchasing of the Barn. Your advice and information were concise and helped make the process easier, even with us being on the opposite of the world! Thank you so much again, your help had been invaluable and much appreciated.

Client, Residential Property

Bhakti Parmar was fantastic at Smith Partnership with handling my mortgage. It was a bumpy road to begin with for a number of reasons however once Bhakti took over it was smooth sailing. I cannot thank Bhakti enough for dealing with the issues faced and on such a tight deadline. Helpful and supportive Bhakti was a pleasure to work with and never to busy to take a call. Fantastic.

Client, Residential Property - Trust Pilot

Bhakti has been excellent, a very good communicator keeping me informed, efficient! Very happy with her service.

Client, Residential Property

We used smiths to both sell and buy our properties and our solicitor Bhakti Parmar and all smith staff we dealt with were excellent throughout. I trusted them throughout the process and will certainly continue to use them again for any other legal matters in the future.

Client, Residential Property - Trust Pilot