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I qualified as a Solicitor in 1991 and joined Smith Partnership in 1999, having spent 10 years working for local authorities. I have over 28 years of experience in practising almost exclusively children's law.

I set up the Childcare Law department in 2002, and was made a Partner in 2006. In the same year I qualified as a Solicitor Advocate (Civil) and in 2013 I became the Client Care Partner at our head office. My team and I specialise in all areas of childcare law, but in particular public children's law where the state, through the guise of the local authority, has intervened in private family life due to allegations of child abuse or neglect. I conduct all my own advocacy, including against nationally-renowned silks and leading junior counsel, predominantly in the County and High Court. I am regularly instructed by CAFCASS, children and parents in the most legally- and factually-complex child abuse cases involving child deaths, serious head injuries, other serious non-accidental injuries and allegations involving serious sexual abuse. A number of the cases I have been involved in have been reported, including:

• M v Derbyshire County Council and others [2018] EWHC 3734 (Fam)
• Re Z (A Child - Care Proceedings - Separate Representation) [2018] EWFC B57
• Re O (Fact Finding Hearing - Parents Refusing to Participate) [2018] EWFC 48, [2018] All ER (D) 91 (Jul)

I have also been instructed by CAFCASS in cases involving disputes between parents as to childhood immunisation — such as Re B (A Child - Immunisation) [2018] EWFC 56, 168 NLJ 7808, [2018] All ER (D) 11 (Sep) — as well as contested surrogacy cases, disputes regarding children from same-sex relationships, and for leave to remove from the jurisdiction.

I have lectured for many years on the subject of public childcare law on CPD-accredited courses around the country, and have delivered papers in a number of national conferences. I have also taught childcare law on the Social Work Masters at the University of Leicester.

I was formerly a member of the Family Justice Council in Derby and a former chair of its Expert and Disclosure Subcommittees for a number of years.

I am a Partner and Head of the Childcare team, and therefore responsible for the work of all our Childcare and Social Services Solicitors and staff. I bring my 27 years of post-qualification experience and expertise in leading the team and driving forward our agenda to provide the highest possible level of service and representation to our clients involved in public childcare law proceedings brought by Local Authorities/Social Services involving their children.

I spearhead the drive to ensure that not only do we provide advice and assistance leading up to any proceedings, but that we offer continuity through representing our clients at most, if not all of the court hearings.

I am married with 3 children who take up most of my time. For better or for worse, I am a follower of Liverpool FC.

I joined Smith Partnership in 1992 and am Head of the Commercial Property team.  I have over 30 years of experience and have dealt with a large cross section of complex commercial property matters. My clients include many private sector clients involved in development schemes and property finance together with complex landlord and tenant matters.

My experience includes site assembly and development, property finance, investment acquisition and funding agreements and the negotiation of institutionally acceptable leases.

The Commercial Property team have been the headline sponsor of the Derby Property Summit, an event attended by over 500 property specialists where I led a seminar on the difficulties faced by city centres and unlocking their potential. 

I have acted on behalf of a US client who specialises in the sterilisation of medical equipment used by the NHS and other medical providers in relation to the purchase of land from Henry Boot Developments Limited and subsequent development agreement for the construction of a bespoke factory with a value in excess of £10 million.

I have also acted for clients in relation to a new facility with HSBC Bank plc with a value of approximately £8 million. This will enable the clients to acquire further land for development purposes.

A wealth of experience. Having been involved with commercial property work for 27 years I have been involved in numerous complex and testing transactions. There are not too many scenarios that I have not come across.

Films, travel either abroad or in the UK in our motorhome, music festivals, spending quality time with my family. Lifelong Arsenal fan. Sometime golfer when time permits.

I head up the Employment team. I act for all sizes of employers from SMEs to large corporate enterprises, charities, educational establishments and public sector employers. My work involves assisting employers in navigating often complex areas of employment law to deliver commercial outcomes. My primary objective is to deliver the result desired by the client whilst reducing their risk.

I also act for senior employees in relation to advice on contracts, exits, settlement agreements and post-employment obligations.

I am a keen advocate and run cases through the employment tribunals to final hearing.

My recent cases of note have included a complex TUPE transfer of over 200 employees on a service provision change, representing a large public sector employer in relation to a discrimination claim listed for fifteen days and acting on behalf of a group of connected directors in relation to claims of unfair dismissal and age discrimination.

I’d like to think that I provide a ready supply of (relatively) funny anecdotes mainly relating to my constant struggle to keep up with my now nearly teenage daughters. After twenty years of practising employment law, I can also be relied upon to unearth experience of dealing with any given employment scenario in the past (if only I could remember the name of the case and the outcome!). 

Finally, without exception, I can be relied upon to spout in an overly evangelical way about the latest fitness fad I have started to follow, only to give it up about two weeks later...

I try my hand at all sports, but master none of them. As age catches up with me, my sporting pursuits are now more heavily focused on a fairly sedentary game of golf (with particular focus on the 19th hole), although I remain a keen and (relatively) enthusiastic runner and regular attendee at my local gym.

My social life is spent primarily ensuring that my daughters, Charlotte and Emily, can fulfil their social lives and I can therefore often be found supporting my daughters in their own sporting pursuits, or driving around my local area dropping them off and picking them up from various friends’ houses. When not doing this, I am walking through the local countryside with my beloved dog, Willow.

As a Partner and Head of the Family team, my main area of work is advising clients on financial aspects of relationship breakdown. Current case load includes cases involving multi-million-pound assets (including pensions/properties/investments and businesses). I represent a wide variety of individuals including senior executives, business people, GPs, accountants, sportspeople etc. Part of the job involves liaising with accountants, actuaries and other professionals so that clients receive the best advice tailored to their circumstances.

I also deal with disputes involving children and in particular helping clients to make child focused arrangements following relationship breakdown.

Finally, I am building the growing area of prenuptial/cohabitation contracts.

I am a member of Resolution and a trained mediator. I am committed to trying to resolve matters in a constructive manner, recognising that litigation, whilst important, is often not the best solution to family breakdown.

I do try and bring a sense of fair play and teamwork. We are better as a team than as individuals and I recognise that different members of my team have different skills. I try and draw on those so that the clients receive the very best service.

As the daughter of an English teacher, grammar and effective communication is pretty important too!

I live with my partner of 25 years and am a mum to 2 children aged 19 and 15. They tend to occupy most of my free time!

In snatched moments I enjoy reading and walking my 2 miniature dachshunds. I am trying (and failing) to develop a regular gym habit, but if I do make it to the gym, I enjoy yoga and swimming.

Family law and Branch Manager.

Divorces, financial matters including cohabitation and separation of cohabitees and private law children matters.

A determination to achieve the best possible result for my clients at an affordable price.

Away from the office I spend my time on my smallholding caring for my many animals which include four horses, four dogs, a cat, two bearded dragons and 21 hens! I have also been known to enjoy the odd glass of red wine at the weekend!

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.

I joined Smith Partnership in 2006.  I am an Associate within the Commercial Property department and specialise in the acquisition, disposal and letting of all types of licensed premises, including hotels, public houses, restaurants, clubs and businesses.

I deal with a significant number of transactions and businesses involving licensed premises every year, acting for both first-time buyers and established publicans advising on the sale and purchase of both leasehold and freehold public houses and dealing with all related issues including the sale and purchase of the business, stock and F&F. I am also able to advise first-time publicans on the potential pitfalls involved in buying a business of this nature.

A significant amount of my experience is within the licensing sector and I deal with all matters relating to the new licensing regime and advise a number of clients on various aspects of licensing law, including premises licence applications, variations, transfers and temporary event notices.

A specialism in the licensing sector. I have been praised for my friendly, professional service and thorough approach to my work.

I enjoy spending time with my family and have 2 young children who keep me very busy. However, after a busy week at work, there is nothing I enjoy more than a good curry and a large glass of red wine!

I represent parents, grandparents, family members and children, as well as the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service (CAFCASS) in cases which are often highly sensitive and complex. These cases often involve social care and the protection of children and I have dealt with non-accidental injuries, sexual abuse and issues of serious neglect and violence. I also act for children in complex cases involving disputes between parents as to who the child should live with or have contact with. Many of my cases require high levels of court work and advocacy. I was admitted to the Child Panel in 2005 and continue to remain a member of this association which works in the best interests of children and young people.

My colleagues would say that I am hard working, committed and caring and willing to go the extra mile. Also, that I strike the right balance between my family and work.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading, shopping and going to the gym.

I also enjoy travelling.

Based at the firm’s Leicester office, 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 work within the Care team, assisting clients from the commencement of proceeding through to conclusion. This involves offering advice and assistance at the PLO – pre-proceeding stage and attending at meeting on their behalf.

I also attend court and undertake advocacy on behalf of clients, when proceedings are issued before the courts.

I represent parents, children and grandparents, working on a variety of cases, with the sole aim of keeping children with families, if it is safe to do so.

I bring humour to the team, which is required given the pressurised nature of our work.

I enjoy travelling, especially cruising because it is an opportunity to see many places in one trip.

I enjoy gardening, running, snorkelling and scuba diving. I enjoy reading but alas, I cannot get away from the law - John Grisham is one of my favourite authors.

I represent parents and children involved in care proceedings. I take instructions from Children Guardians. I also represent children in complex private law matters.

As a part of this very fun-loving team, I bring 24 years of practising experience. Having also worked as a lecturer in Law, I am able to share an academic background which assists in considering relevant case law. I am able to act as supervisor within the team and wherever possible a mentor to more junior members of staff.
 

I enjoy the outdoors and sports. I regularly compete as a runner in cross country road and track events. In 2018 I became an age category English fell champion.

I joined Smith Partnership in 2007.  I have over 15 years' legal experience advising major corporate and private clients and have established a reputation for being very capable, commercially aware and personable. 

I advise on a wide range of commercial property transactions including complex freehold and leasehold acquisitions and disposals, landlord and tenant matters, development opportunities, refinancing and the property aspects of corporate transactions.

I act for a national property company and have dealt with numerous property transactions with a value of millions of pounds.  The client company’s portfolio consists of thousands of properties and the transactions often involve complex matters such as contracts conditional on planning, which are often subject to areas of overriding interests including rights of way, detailed overage, sales of part with various rights being reserved and granted and ransom strips.

I continue to develop my expertise in the health sector with particular emphasis on pharmacies and enjoy focusing on developing the firm’s relationships with new and growing local business so that in future years Smith Partnership will be their go-to ‘business partner’ as they grow and expand.

Using my years of experience within the commercial real estate sector along with my very good working relationships with my clients, I believe I provide more than property legal advice. I see my role as a Solicitor in the 21st century as being more than my client’s legal Counsel. I believe that I and other professionals (such as accountants, surveyors, lenders, opposing Counsel) are there to provide a full consultancy role for and on behalf of commercial clients.

My colleagues would say I am someone who regularly helps them as much as possible. This could be by maintaining motivation and enthusiasm (buying regular sweet treats) within the team as well as by offering solutions to problems and having strong leadership skills and qualities. We work in a busy, challenging environment and it is important to understand the needs of clients as well as your team and offer support and protection where needed to hopefully create a calm and (where possible) fun working environment.

Away from work I am a keen football and cricket fan.

Having joined Smith Partnership in 2013 as the Head of Business & Personal Insolvency, I have over 14 years of experience advising clients on insolvency matters where I demonstrated my proficiency for dealing with a variety of complex insolvency issues.

On a day-to-day basis I deal with a range of insolvency queries, helping clients, including employees, get to the bottom of both corporate and personal insolvency problems.

I also do a lot of work in an advisory capacity providing help and guidance to Directors and companies on issues including: administrations, members’ voluntary liquidations, creditors’ voluntary liquidations, compulsory liquidations and company voluntary arrangements.

Alongside this I act on behalf of Directors in providing advice on antecedent transactions, such as preference claims, transactions at an undervalue, wrongful trading, and dispositions of property.

I also advise individuals on bankruptcy matters, including dealing with the matrimonial home when the joint owner is made bankrupt.

I also regularly act on behalf of office holders and insolvency practitioners in relation to issues arising out of corporate or personal insolvency cases.

A team player who arranges the best social events, mentors the younger members of the team and is happy to undertake the administration tasks for the department.

I play netball for a local team, enjoy taking my dog (and husband) on long walks and spend any spare time gardening.

• Head of Private Client (Conveyancing and Probate)
• Management Committee member
• Norman House Branch Manager
• Risk Management Committee
• Data Privacy Manager
• Overall responsibility for complaints and claims

Although I have the strategic responsibility for our Conveyancing and Probate teams, my “day job” continues to be working in our Personal Injury department. I do not spend as much of my time fee earning as I used to do but for the last 20 years or so I have specialised in recovering compensation for people who have been seriously injured in road traffic collisions or have been the victims of criminal assaults. During this time I have worked with clients who have suffered the most serious of injuries, for example traumatic brain injury, blindness, paralysis, extensive burns. My focus has always been to maximise the amount of compensation but at the same time trying to secure the best rehabilitation possible so our clients can return to as near their pre-accident condition as possible.

My role as Head of Private Client allows me to drive the departments forward. We have very talented people in place. I am happy to leave the day-to-day legal work to them and I see my role as making sure that we have a suitable regulatory, practical, and technological framework in place to deliver excellent client care. Much of our work comes from happy previous clients and referrers who recognise our ability to do a good job. We continue to attract new referrers and I look forward to welcoming more on board.

Charming, debonair and modest.

I enjoy being outside when not at work. This often takes the form of local walks, watching sports and playing golf. I have been the Secretary of the Derby and District Law Society Golf Society for many years.

Solicitor Advocate in the Crime department specialising in the serious cases dealt with at the Crown Court and above.

Defend in serious drugs, violence and sexual offence cases.

I daren’t think!

Avid motorbike collector and rider. Huge Harley Davidson fan.

Commercial and Personal Debt Recovery for a wide range of clients from individuals to large corporations.

I would hope that they would say I am hard working, accurate and efficient as well as always willing to help others. The other adjective would probably be ‘experienced’, having previously worked at the Court before joining the debt recovery teams nearly 30 years ago.
 

I have 3 children, one older and two who are 10 and 13. I spend most of my spare time being “dad’s taxi” but in my ‘leisure’, I am a performer and treasurer of Burton Musical Theatre Company as well as a member of vocal harmony group ‘Fusion’.

I joined Smith Partnership in 1991 and became a Partner in 1998. I am the Branch Manager.

I have dealt exclusively with Criminal Defence work whilst with the firm. I have particular experience and expertise in representing the young and vulnerable.

I have a well-developed practice in the defence of motoring prosecutions, regularly dealing with cases funded privately by individuals and insurance companies.

I head an invaluable team whose day-to-day commitment maintains our enviable reputation. My colleagues never cease to be cheered by my sparkling sense of humour.

I think that I have a particularly patient and compassionate approach to my court work which is especially suited to my youth client base.

I am married to Nikki and have 2 sons. The bulk of the attention I receive within the household is from Fergus, our cat.

I have a particular love for food and drink, spending much of my spare time in the kitchen.

I have a keen interest in football, a statement brought into question by my life-long support for Notts County.

I continue to play squash with an agility that belies my advanced years.

I am a Partner and devote my time to dealing with complex clinical negligence claims. I have experience in all types of clinical negligence work, including A+E claims, surgery claims, GP claims and dental negligence.

I am based at Norman House in Derby, but travel to all Smith Partnership branch offices. I also visit clients at home in order to provide a dedicated service to clients and victims of medical accidents.

I recently secured a six-figure settlement for a client who had suffered a delay in diagnosis of cancer.

My colleagues would say that one of my most important contributions to the department would be my offerings for our regular charity bake sales.

Away from work I enjoy baking, yoga, travelling with my husband and young son, and walking in the Peak District with our dog.

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

I am a Higher Courts Advocate working in crime. I am responsible for the Derby Crown Court operation. I therefore have responsibility for the preparation of the more serious criminal cases dealt with by Smith Partnership and also the presentation of those cases in Court as an advocate.

I keep a calm head and good judgement in difficult situations.

Being married with two sons keeps me occupied for most of the time but with a keen interest in sport when time allows.

Partner, clinical negligence specialist. I have been with the firm since 1993 starting as a general Civil Lawyer but concentrating on personal injury work. As this built up, my work concentrated on personal injury of which clinical negligence became a bigger & bigger proportion until the decision was taken to concentrate on it exclusively around ten years ago. I have achieved settlements in excess of £1m on a couple of occasions, most recently in November 2018, and numerous six figure settlements. However, I take on relatively low value cases as well which are often disproportionately complicated. It is hard to generalise because the circumstance giving rise to cases vary enormously and no two are the same but to me that is part of the attraction of the work.

Inspiration. I think colleagues look at me and think that if I can do the job, they certainly can, and probably better. I like the opportunity to work with and train the next generation of lawyers, all of whom have worked so hard to get this far. Hopefully I will never be remembered as someone who said no every time the question was “have you got five minutes?”. I like the fact that we help people of all kinds deal with sometimes horrible, and never easy circumstances.

Birmingham born and bred and loyal season ticket holder at the football club bearing that name. Again, my devotion to difficult seemingly hopeless causes is demonstrated. National Trust member, theatre goer, cinemas too. I read, including poetry. I like holidays in warm places and the food that goes with it.
 

I joined the firm in September 2016 after working in the Legal Aid sector for eight years. I completed the part-time Legal Practice Course at Nottingham Trent University whilst working for Direct Help & Advice (formerly Derbyshire Housing Aid) and qualified as a Solicitor in February 2012.

I am part of the Dispute Resolution department and specialise in landlord and tenant matters. I have a wealth of experience in all aspects of housing law. I also deal with a wide range of contractual and tortious disputes, as well as defending debt recovery matters.

I think my team appreciate the regular coffee and tea rounds I make… as well as my dry wit, sarcasm and sparkling personality, of course.

Outside the office, I am kept busy/tired by my young family though I try to keep my fitness levels up by playing football every week. I also enjoy playing the piano whenever I can.

I joined Smith Partnership in 1992 after relocating to Derby from Portsmouth. Since then, I have progressed and developed through the firm to now heading up the HR department. My role is to work with all Partners and staff, in order to formulate and implement policies and procedures in all aspects of people management, including selection, recruitment, development and retention of the right staff to service the needs of the business for present and future requirements. I work alongside the CEO and am supported with the assistance of my HR Officer.

Rebecca says I make the most amazing chocolate & raspberry brownies!

I enjoy travelling, baking, going to the gym, walking and spending time with my family, particularly my two grandsons who keep me very active and young at heart.

I am a Family Law Solicitor. I have specialised in family law since 2004.  I initially worked as a Paralegal before securing my training contract. I qualified as a solicitor in 2007. While practicing in all matters involving family law, I have a keen interest in children and domestic violence matters.

Upbeat attitude.

I enjoy spending time with my family and I am a member of a local running club.

Head of Professional Liability, Accredited Commercial Mediator, Member of the Professional Negligence Lawyers Association & Recommended by the Legal 500.

I joined the firm in 1994 as a Solicitor in the Dispute Resolution team. I became a Partner in 2000, and Managing Partner of Leicester branch in 2004. In 2014 I launched an online service, ClaimsAgainst.co.uk, righting the wrongs of professionals who have been negligent.

Technical expertise. Excellence in client service.

I live with my young family in Rutland.

I deal with the property sales for the Probate department.

Have worked alongside Tim Jackson for over 20 years and also assist with his large caseload.

I dread to think!

Enjoy socialising with friends and am a keen Derby County supporter. I am a mum to two very active children that keep me very busy!

I am currently a Trainee Solicitor in the Family department. I have my own caseload which primarily consists of divorces, injunctions and private children matters. I also assist the department heads with financial matters.

Generally upbeat with a good sense of humour.

Avid reader, enjoy going for walks in the countryside and taking photographs.

I qualified as a Solicitor in 2002 and joined Smith Partnership in 2008, heading up the team at the Burton branch. From there I progressed in the company, becoming an Associate in early 2015.

I have extensive experience in all areas affecting family law and deal with a variety of cases and clients. The areas of work I focus on include: divorce, financial cases, injunctions, private law children, cohabitation matters and pre-nuptial agreements. My particular specialism is in cohabitee disputes. I am also a member of the Law Society Family Law Panel and the Family Law Advanced Panel which focuses on violence in the home and financial proceedings.

You would have to ask them!

Away from the office I enjoy watching and participating in sport. I also like to keep fit and have competed in the Great North Run twice. I am also an avid supporter of Burton Albion Football Club.

All bills in the Crime departments for Longton and Burton 158.

I have worked for the firm for 30 years in varying roles throughout my employment.

I am a team player and can be called upon to assist where needed.

I enjoy spending time with my daughter, reading, cooking, watching motor racing, cycling and rambling. Thinking of taking up scuba diving as I tried it on holiday and really enjoyed it.

I currently work in the Dispute Resolution department as a Solicitor. My role mainly involves supporting the Partners and Solicitors progressing cases forward in the following areas: aviation claims, landlord and tenant disputes and miscellaneous pre-action protocol matters and small claims cases. I take instructions from clients and liaise with them throughout their matter.
 

I bring a positive can-do attitude to the team, I am organised, committed and focus on getting the job done.

Outside of work I am a keen cricket fan. I enjoy travelling abroad, reading and socialising with friends.

Commercial property work, including secured lending, business acquisitions and disposal, landlord and tenant matters and dealing with investment property work.

A committed and fair person who takes care of clients and colleagues alike. 

I enjoy, food, drink and music.

I joined the firm as a consultant in 2010, having previously worked as a partner at a leading international law firm in London. 

Within my role I advise lenders, borrowers and investors upon loan agreements, guarantees, security and intercreditor/subordination arrangements. I have over 25 years’ experience of advising on banking and finance matters and bring a pragmatic and commercial approach to transactions.

In particular, I deal with corporate banking, property finance and acquisition finance matters.

I’m a fair‑weather Aston Villa fan – so I’ve not been to Villa Park recently, although at least I can’t be described as a glory hunter…

I assist the solicitors in preparation for the cases due in court.

My colleagues would say I am high-spirited.

I enjoy reading and knitting.

I began working for the firm in 1998, as a Legal Clerk in the Aviation department. After many years in this field of law I moved departments to work in personal injury. I currently work in the more specialised area of clinical negligence with Partner at the firm, Martin Bradbury, where I qualified as a Paralegal in 2016. 

I work on a variety of clinical negligence matters, concentrating on more complex and higher value cases.

I work part-time in the office and often travel to meet with clients and their relatives to discuss developments in their cases.

A meticulous approach to the work I produce, achieved in a calm and controlled manner throughout.

In my spare time I enjoy running and have competed in quite a few charity events and 10k races in recent years.

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!

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.

Based in Derby, I have over 10 years' experience as a Commercial Property Solicitor. I advise PLCs, large and small limited companies, partnerships and individuals on a wide range of commercial property transactions.

My experience includes advising clients on a variety of commercial property transactions, including freehold and leasehold sales and purchases, granting and taking of leases, various landlord and tenant matters, development work and the property side of corporate transactions.

Very high quality of work with great attention to detail.

When not at the office, I love to keep fit and attend my local gym. I also love to go for walks in Derbyshire.

I am a Legal Clerk in the Debt Recovery department. The main purpose of my role is to recover sums due for third parties. I have recovered debts from overseas debtors, from debtors in the armed forces and ltd company debts as well as individuals.

I am a kind and friendly member of the team, with a great sense of humour, and I am always happy to assist.

I am a dedicated Dance Mum so my social life is totally limited, however I enjoy socialising with friends and going to the gym. Occasional theatre trips and maybe a sporadic horse riding activity.

I joined the firm in January 2004 and I now head up the Residential Conveyancing department within the Swadlincote branch. Our team deals with freehold and leasehold property sales and purchases, re-mortgages, transfer of equity cases, Right to Buy, the Help to Buy government backed scheme and new build properties.

Friendly, efficient, hardworking and prompt.

I am married, have two children and a lively cocker spaniel, all of which keep me very busy outside of work!

Managing Partner and Head of Business Defence assisting businesses and individuals in relation to investigations and prosecutions by all manner of regulatory bodies including HMRC, DBIS, HSE, Insolvency Service and local authorities.

My cheery face and happy-go-lucky demeanour.

Eddie – my mad fox terrier/jack russell cross

Malt whisky

The mighty Nailers – Belper Town FC

I am now a Trainee in the Family department dealing with divorce, child contact and finances. The child and finance aspects are in respect of both married and unmarried clients. Day-to-day duties include advising clients, liaising with Cafcass, Solicitors and the Court, sending letters and drafting legal documents.

I also attend client meetings and Court, taking notes and assisting counsel. I have recently been involved in drafting articles in relation to hot topics in family law for the firm website.

• Organisation
• Enthusiasm 
• Leadership
• Always willing to lend a hand

I enjoy going to music concerts & festivals, shopping and travelling. In October 2018 I went travelling around Thailand for 2 weeks on my own which was an amazing experience.

I started working for Smith Partnership as a Secretary in 1992 working in various departments within the firm and gained much valued experience along the way. I specialise in Wills, all Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection matters, estate administration and managing clients' financial affairs on their behalf as an Attorney.

Prior to starting work with the firm I had spent six years living and working in New Zealand and obtained my Legal Executive Certificate. In 2001, after being with the firm for nine years, and when my children were older, I decided to put my Legal Executive training to good use and became a fee earner with the firm working initially in the Civil Litigation department and subsequently in the Wills and Inheritance department where I continue to practice.

I enjoy meeting clients from all walks of life and, as a private client adviser, I act on behalf of many clients managing their financial affairs under attorneyships or case managing deputyships, administering estates, preparing Wills and all types of Power of Attorney documents.

I have long been involved with Age UK and established a monthly surgery at their Derby office where people can make appointments to speak with one of our team regarding their legal issues on a no-obligation basis.

Outside of work I love to spend time with my family.

Responsible for the Derby Crown Court operation, I work in crime and I'm a Higher Courts Advocate. I have responsibility, therefore, for preparing more serious criminal cases which Smith Partnership deals with and also presenting those cases in Court as an Advocate.

I keep a calm head and good judgement in difficult situations.
 

Being married with two sons keeps me occupied for most of the time but with a keen interest in sport when time allows.
 

I am a Paralegal working in the Private Client department. I have several years of experience assisting clients with the preparation of Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney as well as dealing with the administration of estates. I also represent the firm together with my colleague, Jack Robinson, at regular advice sessions held by Age UK Staffordshire.

A good sense of humour and a mean cup of tea.
 

I am a keen reader and movie buff and enjoy spending time with friends and family.

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.

I specialise in commercial dispute resolution, helping clients to resolve their differences and achieve the most commercially acceptable solutions in the most cost-effective way. As well as disputes arising from contracts, I deal with business ownership disputes, property-related disputes and have a particular specialism in litigation relating to leases and tenancies of pubs. My job is to advise clients on their options and to help them decide which of those options should be pursued.

I bring a wealth of knowledge to the team, having been practising for over 25 years. I have been known to bring in cakes occasionally, although my colleagues would probably say not often enough. I am a bit of a grammar pedant. I’m very proud of the team – they are a great bunch of talented lawyers.

I am married with three grown up children and two dogs. My interests include playing golf, watching pretty much any sport but with a particular interest in football and rugby. My favourite team is Shrewsbury Town, but living in Derby it is impossible not to feel an affinity for Derby County. I’m a big fan of the England Rugby team and love a good day out at Twickenham.

I lead the Debt Recovery team and provide advice to clients regarding credit control and ensuring that the invoices they raise are paid. I regularly attend clients’ offices to review their internal credit control procedures and to ensure that a robust process is in place.

When invoices are left unpaid, I seek to recover the sums due to my clients by using the correct legal process to ensure the debt is recovered. I act for a large number of clients including universities, utility companies, independent schools, veterinary surgeries and companies within the fast-moving consumer goods sector. I am also the Head of Business Development for the firm.

I think I bring “thinking outside of the box” to the teams within which I work. I like to do things differently and not follow the norm. I believe that makes you memorable.

I have a young daughter and in my spare time I enjoy spending time with my daughter and husband visiting National Trust sites. I also enjoy attending the gym and going for a run. I love yoga but struggle to find quiet time!

Legal Clerk working in debt recovery. My role is the collection of debts on behalf of my clients. I have pursued debts due from individuals, small businesses and large companies. My clients range from large pub companies and gas suppliers to small and medium-sized businesses.

I bring a wealth of experience to the team having been in the job since 1990. I am always happy to assist others with queries.

I make a mean Malteser cake which goes down well with colleagues.

I enjoy going walking.

I run the IT team providing IT support and Case Management Development to all of the firm's 220 users. I have recently completed the move from Celtic House to Norman House and am about to start a process to update Charnwood Court to the new corporate image while also doubling desk capacity.

Organisation, right first-time fix philosophy, grumpiness!

DIY and gardening.

I am responsible for the Reception and Office Assistants based in Derby as well as answering calls and taking enquiries for all branches.

Hopefully I am a team player.

I enjoy travelling and walking, especially in Cornwall. Cooking and gardening.

Head of the Personal Injury department.
 

I would like to think my colleagues would say I was supportive and approachable, that I have a good sense of humour but do tend to be annoyingly pedantic about grammar, spelling and setting the right tone in letters, emails, statements etc.

I am a keen golfer although I have learned to live with a high handicap. I am also a football fan and enjoy supporting Derby County, at least some of the time. I also enjoy walking and exploring the Peak District with my family in my leisure time.
 

I became a graduate of CILEX in 2011 and joined Smith Partnership in January 2013 as a Trainee Legal Executive in the Will and Probate department, finally qualifying as a Chartered Legal Executive in 2014 (also known as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives).

My main area of work is Will writing, administering estates, Court of Protection, Powers of Attorney and all areas concerning elderly clients. I advise clients on tax planning issues and asset protection (in particular regarding care homes which is a particularly favourable topic for most of my clients) together with the transfer of property and severance of property.

I prepare Powers of Attorney to deal with a range of different matters from simply the sale of a property, Lasting Powers of Attorney (health and welfare, property and financial affairs) and revoking earlier Powers of Attorney if required. I also register Lasting Powers of Attorney and Enduring Powers of Attorney with the Office of the Public Guardian if a person is becoming mentally incapable of dealing with their own affairs. My Will writing skills often deal with issues such as life interests, asset protection, Will Trusts and Discretionary Trusts benefiting disabled persons and minors. I also deal with estate work to either assist the client with obtaining a Grant of Letters of Administration/Probate or to deal with all matters involved in administering an estate to include the discharging Inheritance Tax.

I am friendly and approachable.

I am a keen gardener and enjoy spending time with my husband, little boy, dog and cat. I also enjoy baking in my spare time.

I am a Legal Clerk in the Personal Injury team assisting David Clark, the Department Head and running my own case load dealing with a variety of personal injury claims including trips and slips, industrial disease, accidents at work and accidents abroad. I also travel to other offices to take instructions from new clients. 

A team player, always willing to help out, approachable, friendly, sociable, always up for a laugh and a gossip and more than happy to empty the goody drawer.

I live in Derby with my husband, teenage daughter, black Labrador and a maniac cat. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, eating out, cooking, walking the dog and singing. I am a member of Derby and Derbyshire Rock Choir and can often be found singing with the choir at different venues around Derby.

I am part of the Commercial Property team, acting for clients on a mixture of commercial and residential sales and purchases.

A wealth of experience, having worked for local solicitors and the legal departments for national builders.

Reading and movies.

I joined Smith Partnership as a Junior HR Administrator in 2003, completed the Level 3 CIPD Certificate in Personnel Practice and have progressed to my current role as HR Officer. I work alongside the HR Manager to look after the HR needs of over 200 staff at Smith Partnership.

My role involves recruitment, contracts of employment, inductions for new starters, recording sickness, annual leave and absence management. I organise maternity leave, assist in payroll, action childcare vouchers, process leavers, arrange training courses, temporary workers and locums, probation review meeting documentation and client satisfaction questionnaires. In addition, I organise and take minutes for the firm's internal ICG meetings, as well as looking after our Smith Savings benefits scheme, HR-related admin and project work. All in all, I’m kept pretty busy!

I have a positive and friendly outlook.

Beyond the workplace, I lead a busy life with my partner and two small children – who both like to keep us on our toes! I enjoy seeing friends, eating out, walking, reading, but above all, having quality family time for days out and holidays to make memories.

I joined Smith Partnership in 2016 as a Paralegal in the Company & Commercial department before becoming a member of CILEx Law School.

I work on a variety of both commercial and corporate matters including asset acquisitions & disposals, share acquisitions & disposals, company incorporations, company restructures, Shareholders' Agreements, partnerships, employee share schemes, Reconstitution of Statutory Registers, commercial contracts and e-commerce.

Willingness to take on any task, positive attitude, team player.

Away from work I enjoy taking my two dogs for walks in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside. I also enjoy hosting BBQs, hitting the gym and am partial to a game of netball with friends and colleagues.

I deal with sales and purchases of residential property and remortgages.

A right old misery.

I enjoy watching live music on the Burton music scene, drinking lager, watching football and reading crime and thriller novels.

I am a member of our Staffordshire team and I have over 30 years' experience specialising in all aspects of criminal law. My role is extremely varied and I advise and assist clients on a wide range of matters both at the police station and at court.

I have been with Smith Partnership since Monday, 19 September 1988. I, together with two others, Richard Oldroyd and Philip Powis, started the Longton office working long hours to establish this branch office with a high level of commitment to providing a service to our clients, and we have maintained a strong client base.

My staff are the most loyal in the firm having over 150 years of collective experience and are committed and dedicated to providing a first-class service to our clients. 

I enjoy reading and listening to music to relax.

After completing my Law degree, I became an Accredited Police Station Representative. I have many years' experience in assisting clients both at the police station and the courts.

I have worked for the firm for 23 years. Quite often I speak with clients, send and receive emails and work outside the normal working office hours to ensure that my cases are fully prepared. 

I spend most of my free time working.

I am responsible for managing the Police Station department at our Leicester branch and overseeing all of the cases that are dealt with at the police station.

I am also a Police Station Accredited Representative that is experienced in dealing with a wide range of cases – including domestic violence, thefts, sexual assault cases and others.

I would like to think that my colleagues would say that I have an enthusiastic approach to my work and that I am helpful, along with providing a touch of jocularity to the office.
 

I like to keep fit by running with my wife, along with going to the gym and playing football.

I also like to go travelling and another keen hobby of mine is watching films.

Chase outstanding bills for all Smith Partnership debts.

Helpful and sociable – emergency sewing repairs a speciality.

I like to socialise with friends, follow local marching bands and am involved with the local cricket club – as the tea lady! I’m also a keen cross stitcher.

I was a partner in an established law firm in Leicester which merged with TSP over 20 years ago. I became a partner in TSP working in the crime department until 2015 when I took on a consultancy role.

My work involves defending clients in the Crown Court. I have dealt with cases involving serious fraud, murder, and drug related offences. I was one of the first solicitors in England and Wales granted authority from the Law Society to appear before the senior criminal courts. I have been a regular advocate before the Crown Court for 23 years.

Good natured and easy going. Always ready to use my experience in the law to benefit younger members of the firm. Often the go to person with particularly difficult cases. 37 years post qualification experience and counting.

I am a devoted supporter of Leicester City FC and have held a season ticket for many years. I have interests in music and hi fi together with pets which have included two cats and an exceptionally large German Shepherd dog.

Branch Manager at 158 High Street, Burton on Trent, DE14 1JE.

Have worked on numerous high-profile media sex cases.

I am sensible and reliable.

Golf with a handicap of 28.

Walking my 4 dogs.

I joined Smith Partnership in 2012 working as a Paralegal in the Crime Department in Leicester. Prior to this I dealt with mental health cases as part of HM Courts and Tribunals Service.

I am a graduate of Combined Social Sciences at The University of Lincoln, though I went on to complete my Graduate Diploma in Law and later the Legal Practice Course at Nottingham Law School.

I carried out my training contract with the firm and qualified as a solicitor in July 2017. I appear regularly at the Magistrates’ Court and specialise in advising clients in relation to matters of serious crime and regulatory offences.

I also joined the Business Defence team upon qualification specifically dealing with various types of fraud cases.

Last year I was able to take a substantial role in the successful acquittal of a client prosecuted in connection with a multi-million-pound fraud from the Bermudian government.

Friendly, determined and definitely not a creator of any baked goods!

Shopping and avoiding exercise.

I am a member of the Criminal team at Leicester working to defend clients at the police station and through to the Magistrates Court. I have a no-nonsense approach and particularly enjoy working in the Youth Court.

My colleagues would describe me as feisty, challenging and obsessed with trying to organise everyone around me!

Outside of work I enjoy going to the cinema with my family and binge watching box-sets with copious amounts of chocolate goodies.

I qualified as a solicitor in 2007 and joined Smith Partnership in 2012. I am a Partner in our Crime team in Staffordshire and have nearly 30 years' experience in all aspects of criminal law. My role is extremely varied and I advise and assist clients on a wide range of matters both at the police station and at court. I head up the High Profile/Serious Crime Department. I work in conjunction with Derek Angus. Although I cover all areas of criminal law, my main focus is on serious and complex cases ranging from large scale conspiracies, drugs cases, rapes, murders, wounding, Proceeds of Crime and more. I attend on matters throughout the UK.

I am a workaholic and can frequently be found reading evidence, sending emails and speaking with clients outside of normal office hours.

My key interests are weight training, supporting Aston Villa and watching movies.

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.

I am a senior criminal clerk and I have worked on high profile criminal cases ranging from Murder and Human Trafficking. I have worked on the following cases:

• R v P Murder
• R v K Human Trafficking
• R v B Voyeurism

I bring over 20 years experience dealing with criminal cases and have the ability to deal with complex legal issues with clients who are in challenging positions.

I spend most of my spare time walking my energetic Vizsla dog who does his best not stays clean. I have helped produce several amateur films.

My main role is to manage the police station operation, overseeing the representation at numerous police stations and co-ordinating the business so as to ensure our clients are offered a first class service of advice at police stations 24/7.

I’m also involved in the prep of mags and Crown Court cases and needless to say in the 25 years I have been here I have covered every type of case from the most trivial to the most complex and serious.

Experience, hard work & efficiency.

I am married with twins, love sport, coach junior football and I am an ECB qualified junior cricket coach and have supported Man City for 40 years.

I joined Smith Partnership in November 2014 after completing my Legal Practice Course at the prestigious Nottingham Law School.

I am now a Solicitor within the Commercial Property department and service clients across the East Midlands and nationally from our Head Office at Norman House, Derby.

I advise clients on a full range of property transactions including freehold and leasehold acquisitions and disposals as well as secured lending, but have particular expertise in complex commercial landlord and tenant matters, including Agreements for Leases, New Leases, Lease Renewals, Lease Assignments, Licences for Alterations and Deeds of Variation.

I also have experience of corporate transactional support work and more recently have expanded my portfolio within the licensing sector, acting in connection with the acquisition and disposal of both leasehold and freehold licensed premises including the sale of Goodwill and Fixtures and Fittings.

My clients include a national bespoke eyewear brand, a national digital brands, marketing and communications agency and a number of local and national charities.

I am a perfectionist (if something is worth doing, it is worth doing well as the saying goes)!

I am, in the most part, naturally quiet and studious, however, those who know me well know that I have a dry sense of humour, a love for Harry Potter, polar bears and panda bears (or anything fluffy really).

I am an East Midlands girl through and through, having been born and bred in Burton Upon Trent, studied in Nottingham and now working in Derby.

Outside of work, I enjoy long walks in the countryside with my German Shepherd, Missy. I am also a member of the National Trust. 

After a challenging week at work, I enjoy nothing more than good food washed down with a large glass of Pinot Blush! I also love to travel, having recently returned from Budapest.

I joined Smith Partnership in 2008 as a Paralegal working in the Crime department in Burton on Trent.

I successfully completed my Legal Practice Course and Training Contract with the firm and I qualified as a Solicitor in 2013 working in Burton on Trent.

I joined the Derby Crime Department in November 2019.

My role is extremely varied, covering all types of criminal law. I mainly cover cases at the Magistrates Court and Police Station in Derby, but I can often be found travelling up and down the country covering cases in Courts nationwide.

I undertake work that ranges from shoplifting and minor criminal damage right through to complex conspiracies. I pride myself in my attention to detail and ability to be able to explain complex matters in a simple manner.

I bring enthusiasm, hard work and a good eye for detail to the team.

Away from work I enjoy spending time with my family, cycling and I am a keen martial artist.

I am employed as a Licensed Conveyancer dealing with sale and purchase transactions. I deal with freehold and leasehold properties.

I would like to say that I bring a happy and positive attitude.

I am a mum to a one year old and spend most of my free time visiting farms and soft play.

I assist in the smooth running of the Norman House reception.

I provide a friendly and warm welcome to every client.
 

I enjoy walking, the gym and travelling.
 

I am in the final seat of my Training Contract, qualifying in May 2022. I am currently working in the Commercial Property Department and my role so far has consisted of drafting lease reports, applying for searches and generally dealing with the Land Registry.

I continue to shadow and assist my colleagues in order to gain further knowledge in this area and enhance my skill set in a commercial environment.

My colleagues would describe me as being a true team player, with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn!

I studied my Law degree at De Montfort University and completed the Legal Practice Course at Nottingham Law School in 2016.

Outside of work I enjoy going out on the weekends socialising with friends and family, walking and trying out new cooking recipes at home.

Company and Commercial Law

• Corporate Acquisitions and Disposals
• Management Buy Outs/Buy Ins
• Share Buybacks
• Restructuring
• Partnership Arrangements
• Shareholder Arrangements
• Collaborations and Joint Ventures
• Ecommerce and Online Contracts
• IT and Software Contracts
• Sales, Agency and Distribution Contracts

• Effective time management
• Organised
• Caffeine addict

British bulldog owner, camper van restoration enthusiast, holiday lover.

I joined Smith Partnership in August 2021 having previously worked at the firm as a Paralegal within the crime department.

I qualified as a Solicitor in June 2021 and regularly appear before the Magistrates Court covering a wide range of offences. I also regularly represent clients at the police station.

I prepare Crown Court cases dealing with a range of different offences such as murder, drug conspiracies and rape.

Hard work, enthusiasm and a team player.

I love spending time with my 14-year-old Cocker Spaniel called Roxy, holidays and socialising with friends.

I also completed the three peaks challenge in 24 hours.

I am a Residential Conveyancing Solicitor dealing with all aspects of residential conveyancing including the usual property sales, purchases, remortgages and transfers as well as more complex matters that include equity release, Help to Buy and shared ownership cases.

Down to earth, sense of humour, approachable.
 

Walking my dog and spending time with family and friends.

I am a Partner and deal with the full breadth of private client work including Wills, Tax, Trusts, the administration of estates, elderly client advice and Powers of Attorney.

I have assisted clients in connection with their international affairs and have been able to save clients many hundreds of thousands of pounds in tax including occasions where the client had already received advice to the contrary.

I am proud to be a Dementia Friends Champion and am the Co-Chair of the Derbyshire Dementia Action Alliance.

I am also a Notary Public, which is the oldest form of lawyer in England. There are only nine hundred notaries in the country, and each is personally appointed by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

I am a team-player and try to bring everyone’s specialism to play.

I am relaxed and will always try to resolve a problem in the easiest possible way, if only because I prefer a quiet life.

I enjoy being outdoors and can be found walking/cycling whenever the opportunity arises.

I have ridden a motorcycle for over thirty-five years and finally gave up the love-hate relationship of my classic Italian motorbike in favour of the Harley sitting in my garage. I know, but it makes me smile.

I also enjoy indoor climbing and try to keep healthy.

Like everyone else I enjoy reading and music but I also like the theatre and the arts generally.

I am a very down to earth and approachable person who brings energy and enthusiasm to the team.

When I am not at busy work or studying hard for my LPC I love to go sailing at Carsington Water and I enjoy taking part in national competitions. I also enjoy going to fitness classes and spending time with my partner, family and friends.

I am a Conveyancer within the Residential Property department at Norman House, Derby.

I specialise in New Build Conveyancing but cover a broad range of matters ranging from general Sale and Purchase matters as well as Remortgage and Transfers of Equity.

Organisation.

Enthusiasm and a bright and friendly persona.

Good sense of humour and always willing to help.

I enjoy going to the gym and travelling in my time away from work.

I am a full-time Solicitor within the Child Care department. As a member of the team, my role includes representing and advising parents, grandparents and family members on cases that are very sensitive and highly emotional with complex issues. It involves working with social care and experts and includes court advocacy.

I bring many years of experience from within the family courts which included the advising and training of Magistrates and colleagues on law and procedure.  

I also possess an unmistakeable laugh!

I enjoy walking my dog, Bert the Border Terrier, with my husband, watching box sets as well as wrestling with crosswords.

Conveyancer. I manage a mixed caseload of freehold, leasehold, shared ownership, lease extensions, new build, Right To Buy, transfer of equity and re-mortgages.

I would like to think they would say I have a good sense of humour but I do tend to laugh more at my own jokes than anyone else does. I am a personable and hardworking individual with a conscientious attitude.

In my spare time, I like to do some acting, attend the gym (or pay every month) and go for long walks. I enjoy following the rugby which, being Welsh, will come as a huge shock I am sure.

I am a Paralegal in the Child Care department, currently based in the Leicester office.

A good team player and always available to help anyone.

In my spare time, I participate in Olympic weightlifting and I’m a member of the Leicester Olympic Weightlifting Club. I also have a keen interest in travelling and Formula One.

I am a Commercial Property Paralegal who deals with various parts of a transaction but focuses mainly on the post-completion matters.

I bring great IT skills and provide a wealth of football knowledge.

I studied at Nottingham Trent University where I completed my LLB, LPC and LLM which has put me in good stead. 

Outside of work I enjoy playing/watching football and socialising with friends and family.

Key areas of work:

• Wills
• Powers of Attorney
• Court of Protection applications
• Management of property and financial affairs for professional attorneys and deputies
• Estate planning advice
• Probate administration
• Trusts

Wills and Lifetime Planning Tools

In short, I advise and assist people with their lifetime planning and in the preparation of Wills ranging from simple wills to complex Wills incorporating Trusts as well as other useful lifetime planning tools such as Powers of Attorney, including general Powers of Attorney, specific powers of Attorney, Trustee Powers of Attorney, Enduring Powers of Attorney and Lasting Powers of Attorney. I also draft Declarations of Trust. I offer all-round advice having formed a bigger picture of my client’s personal circumstances to help them make well-informed decisions.

Court of Protection Deputyships

I also advise and assist with applications to the Court of Protection for the appointment of a Deputy and I am particularly passionate about helping vulnerable clients. The Court of Protection work I am involved with includes making applications to the Court for the appointment of a person to manage property and finances when a person becomes unable to do so for themselves and also in assisting Professional Attorneys and Deputies manage property and financial affairs. I also have experience of Statutory Will applications, Trustee applications, gifting applications and also Health and Welfare applications to the Court of Protection.

Probate and Letters of Administration

I assist Executors in applications for Grants of Representation both where the deceased left a Will and in cases of Intestacy (where there is no valid Will). I also assist in the general administration of an estate including collecting in assets of the estate, settling liabilities, the preparation of estate accounts and distributing to beneficiaries. This involves the calculation and settling of inheritance tax, as well as deeds of variation where a beneficiary wishes to redirect their inheritance and payments to the beneficiaries. I find it rewarding to be able to help people in their hour of need especially after the loss of a loved one.

A little ray of sunshine and bringing out the happy side in people.

I am very determined, conscientious and will fight for what I believe is right for the team and our clients.

I love to help people. I am a Dementia Friends Champion and a member of “Inspiring the Future”.

I am colourful and I love shoes!

The best moments of my life are spent with my little family. Unfortunately for them, I have not yet mastered the art of keeping a pet fish alive for more than a few months. R.I.P Sprinkles and Cupcake.

I am a bit of a royalist and my biggest role model is Her Majesty the Queen.

In my spare time I enjoy a mix of belly dancing, tap dancing, genealogy, cocktails with friends and stone painting with the children. 

I won the Northamptonshire Law Society Junior Lawyer of the Year award in 2014 and have since been commended internally with awards for commitment to business development and for “going over and above” in client care and service.

I’m a Marketing Executive that joined Smith Partnership’s Business Development Group in March 2018. Within the firm, I have a particular focus upon Digital Marketing based projects, working alongside our six offices based across the East Midlands.

Derbys Finest
I am a committee member of Derbys Finest - Inspiring women in business, a group that aims to support, inspire and encourage the future generations of female leaders. I joined the group as a committee member in 2018.

Mainframe
In June 2021 I was pleased to be have been selected as part of the first ever Mainframe Derby Champions group. Tasked with championing Derby & Derbyshire's creative industries, sharing news and updates within our communities and being the voice of the sector in our region.

'Loves a good panic!'

During my spare time, alongside studying for my Level 6 Marketing Manager Apprenticeship with the Cambridge Marketing College - I am a dance teacher at a local dance school based in Darley Abbey, teaching during the evenings and weekends, as an Associate of the International Dance Teachers Association (AIDTA). I have taught dance since the age of 16, focusing on the traditional disciplines of ballet and tap.

I am a Trainee Solicitor working in the Family Department.

A positive attitude, and sometimes cake!

In my spare time I enjoy shopping, baking and going out with friends and family. I am also a leader at a local Girlguiding Brownie group, which I attend most weeks.

I act for both employees and employers from a broad range of sectors, providing bespoke, strategic and practical advice on a variety of matters including:
- settlement agreements;
- advice in relation to disciplinary processes, performance management and absence management for both HR teams and individuals;
- drafting employment and worker contracts;
- drafting policies, procedures and employee handbooks;
- TUPE;
- redundancies; and
- employment tribunal litigation.
Having previously worked in Human Resources and having that experience means that I have a wider commercial understanding of the day to day obstacles and needs of HR teams and managers which means my advice is pragmatic and tailored to suit the needs of clients.
 

I’m organised, calm and always willing to help.

Outside of work I enjoy socialising with friends and family, going on holiday and looking after my two cats, Harry & Ron (yes, I’m a fan of Harry Potter!).

I’m also a school governor and it means a lot to me to be given this opportunity to give something back to the school I attended and the local community.

I am a family solicitor who specialises in childcare cases. I qualified in 2009 and specialised in family law. I am an accredited Specialist on the Law Society Advanced Family Law Panel specialising in children in the home and domestic violence. I cover all levels of Local Authority involvement from Early Help through to Care Proceedings. I cover all levels of advocacy from initial hearings through to contested final hearings.

• I am friendly and approachable and a very good listener.
• I will always strive to do my best for any client which I represent.

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

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.

I am a Solicitor in the Contentious Trusts & Probate Department.

Having previously gained experience in a wide variety of Civil Litigation, I moved to Smith Partnership in November 2019 to specialise in all aspects of Contentious probate, trust administration, challenging Wills and Inheritance disputes.

Youth, sarcasm and excellent tea making skills.

Outside of work I am a keen musician and have played in a Brass Band since I was 7 years old. I also play the piano and like to pretend that I frequently attend the gym.

I have a wide range of duties within the Business Development team including general administration, event support, updating and clean-up of our internal Practice Management System.
 

I’m a real stickler for spelling and grammar, constantly on the look out for mistakes to correct!
I’m efficient, use my time well and bring a large amount of sarcasm and dry humour to the team.
 

I am a keen runner, having run several 10K and half-marathons. In 2021 I’ll be running The London Marathon for Asthma UK. I also ‘enjoy’ going to the gym.
I’m the proud owner of three children, two cats and a tortoise! All of which keep me very busy outside of work, the tortoise not so much!
 

Having completed the Legal Practice Course at the University of Sheffield, I joined Smith Partnership as a Paralegal in 2001. I went on to complete my training contract with the firm and I qualified as a Solicitor in 2004.

I was made an Associate in 2009 and have since successfully qualified as a Higher Courts Advocate in both criminal and civil advocacy.

I am police station accredited as well as being a member of the duty solicitor scheme.

I specialise in criminal law and I head up our Crown Court team in Leicester. I appear regularly at the Crown Court and my case load includes a variety of serious matters including violent crime, sexual offences, robbery, drug offences and fraud.

I also manage the department which involves submitting bills to the LAA / clients, managing staff and also liaising with other organisations to include Courts and court staff, CPS and the police amongst many others.

I am professional, efficient, assertive, hardworking and a perfectionist. I have a good sense of humour and I am approachable.

I live and breathe the job. 

I joined the firm in February 2020 within the Residential Conveyancing department.

I’m a conveyancer and specialise in various property transactions including registered and unregistered freehold and leasehold properties, re-mortgaging and transfers of equity. I’m studying towards achieving Level 6 CLC Diploma and have qualified as a Conveyancing Technician.

In my spare time I love spending time with my family, exercise and travel. I often put my chef hat on and try new food recipes.

I joined Smith Partnership in 2019 as a legal secretary within the residential property team, and then promoted to an assistant within the department at the beginning of 2020. Meaning that I know the process inside out. I graduated with a Law Degree from Derby University, and I am currently studying my LPC.

My role within the residential property team is to assist two of our fee earners in new build and standard property purchases, and to work on sale, remortgage and transfer of equity files from beginning to completion.

My team would say that I am super organised and always happy to lend a hand to anyone who needs it.

I am passionate about all types of music, particularly Rock and I enjoy going to watch my favourite bands perform. I am also a keen traveller and love exploring new cultures.

I am Associate Solicitor and have exclusively practiced in family law since qualifying as a Solicitor in July 2009.

I have dealt with complex and challenging disputes relating to divorce, children, forced marriage and domestic abuse.

I also have a particular interest in financial issues arising out of separation and consider myself a keen advocate. I am passionate about family law and I am dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for my clients. 

My colleagues would describe me as determined and dedicated, I have a keen eye for detail and I am always willing to go the extra mile for my clients.  

I am an enthusiastic team player and like to support my colleagues wherever I can. 

I have two young children who keep me very busy in my spare time.  I am also a keen hobby baker, like to read and enjoy shopping and meals out with friends. 

Solicitor dealing with care proceedings, 10 years of experience advising and representing parents, grandparents and others in care proceedings and child protection conferences.  Advise on adoption breakdowns.

A sense of humour and positive outlook.

Love all things art.

I am a Chartered Legal Executive specialising in Wills, Probate applications, the administration of estates, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Enduring Powers of Attorney and Deputyship applications.

I have experience of preparing Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney and making applications to the Court of Protection for the appointment of a Deputy for persons lacking mental capacity to manage their affairs.   My work mainly consists of non-taxable estates, although I do have some experience of dealing with larger taxable estates.

Through Solicitors for the Elderly I have experience of working with older clients.   I am a good listener and very patient when clients are considering important decisions about their future.

I qualified as a Fellow of the institute of Legal Executives in 2003.   I became a member of Solicitors for the Elderly in 2009 and have also undertaken Dementia Friends training in March 2017.   In 2019 I was admitted as a CILEx Probate Practitioner.

I am friendly and approachable with a supportive attitude.

I enjoy spending time with my family, husband and two children.    I enjoy socialising with friends, walking and Pergamano.

I joined Smith Partnership in February 2021 as a Chartered Legal Executive within the Private Client department based at the Burton office.

I specialise in Private Client matters including Wills, Assets Protection, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection applications for those that lack capacity, Probate applications and Estate Administration. I have been assisting and advising clients for over 10 years.

I am a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives and a Full Accredited Member of Solicitors for the Elderly. I am also a trained Dementia Friend. I pride myself on my professional yet friendly approach and enjoy building lasting relationships with both clients and their families. 

A positive attitude and a great team player!

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family, including days out and holidays. I am also a keen supporter and season ticket holder of my local football team. I have two cats, Fudge and Sox!

I am a Legal Assistant in the Conveyancing department at Burton.

To assist the fee earner working on sale, purchase, re-mortgage and transfer of equity files from opening through to completion.

I am also studying a Law Degree in my free-time as I am hoping to qualify as a solicitor one day.

-Very organised

-Down to earth

-Sense of humour

- Spending time with family and friends

- Looking after my Kitten

- Watching Manchester United

- Drinking a nice glass of prosecco!

Work within the family department since qualifying in 2009 as a Legal Executive.

My caseload is varied and involves Children’s Act applications, Divorce, Financial Remedy applications prenuptial agreements and Non Molestation applications.

I pride myself on giving advice in a calmly and detailed manner and providing a level of assurance to clients who may at the time find themselves in highly emotional charged situations.  

I try to bring to the team a good sense of humour!

Out of work I enjoy spending time with my family which keep me very busy.

I enjoy eating and drinking with friends and have been known to run the London Marathon a few times for charity.

Legal Assistant in the Conveyancing department. All aspects of legal assistant and post completion.

Hard working and motivated, always pushing forward as there is always a way forward in any situation you find yourself in.

Sport, mainly motorsport and enjoy playing Cricket.

Receptionist, greeting clients, dealing with post, enquiries, emails, booking rooms, plus other ad hoc duties.

Friendly and supportive.

I enjoy going out for meals, theatre, concerts, shopping, meeting friends for drinks, love to watch old films.

I am a paralegal in the Litigation Department based in Leicester. I work alongside Alison Neate and Suhail Alloo working on professional negligence claims, along with other general litigation matters.

I am organised, hardworking and always happy to help out.

I love travelling back to Yorkshire to spend time with my family. I also love watching and playing sports, and socialising with friends.

I am a Residential Property Conveyancer at the Burton Branch. I specialise in both Freehold and Leasehold property sales and purchases, Transfers of Equity, Re-mortgages and New builds.

I have over 30 years’ experience working in the Conveyancing sector and have gained a wealth of knowledge during that time.  I am hardworking and conscientious in my work and believe that you are never too old to learn something new every day!

When I am not enjoying time with my grown up family and grandson you will find me walking in the Peak District. 

My favourite weekend go to retreat is the beautiful Spa town of Buxton.

I joined Smith Partnership in June 2021 as a Conveyancing Assistant within the residential property team.

My role within the residential property team is to assist fee earners in standard property transactions such as sales and purchases, as well as remortgage and transfer of equity files from beginning to completion.

I am super organised and very down to earth and approachable. Definitely a team player, always willing to help out, friendly, sociable and always up for a laugh.

Outside of work I enjoy watching my fiancé play Rugby for his local team and also love socialising with friends and family. I enjoy discovering new places, reading and going to see musicals. I am an avid Disney lover and currently in the process of planning our wedding!

I work in the Aviation department, assisting with aviation claims, mainly defending airline companies against claims regarding delayed and cancelled flights.

My duties include considering pleadings issued by claimants, negotiating settlements, drafting, filing and serving our clients’ defence and preparing the matter for trials.

I can make dreamy chocolate brownies and a decent brew!

In my spare time I enjoy meeting up with friends, going to the pub and walking my dog, rain or shine! I love being at the seaside and enjoy a break away to the coast whenever I can!

I love animals, baking and all things crafty.

I am a Post Completions Clerk at our office located in Derby focusing mainly on Post Completion matters. I also cover various elements of a conveyancing transaction relating to Sale and Purchase matters as well as Remortgage and Transfers of Equity.

A friendly team player with a positive can do approach.

I studied my Law Degree with Derby University and I am currently working towards becoming a Chartered Legal Executive.

Outside of work I enjoy socialising, playing sports and trying out new food menus!

I am an Associate Solicitor based in the litigation team in Leicester. I mainly specialise with matters relating to professional negligence but also act on other general litigation matters.

I bring a wealth of experience to the team and always try to do my job with a smile. I am a keen believer in technology and therefore try to work paperless when possible.

I enjoy watching and playing sport and working on various mini projects in my house and garden. I also enjoy visiting new places and meeting new people.   

I am responsible for the running of the Swadlincote reception, taking enquiries from clients and assisting our branch manager and all other departments with administrative duties.

I provide a friendly and warm greeting to all our clients and are responsible for the smooth running of the office generally as a whole.

I enjoy gardening, cooking and walking, especially in the Lake District.