Law firm strengthens specialist legal team with key appointments

One of the North’s leading legal firms has expanded its specialist Wills, Probate and Inheritance team by taking on several new recruits.

Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors has made five appointments to the team which is regarded as one of the largest and strongest Private Client departments in the region. The new recruits take the number of members in the department to 41, comprising 14 solicitors, 12 paralegals and 15 support staff.

The move aims to further strengthen and develop the specialist services it offers which includes Will drafting, powers of attorney, estate and trusts administration, and court of protection matters.

The appointments include Robert Hudson, Laura Jinks and Kathryn Barnett who join the company as Associate Solicitors. Beth Chattin has been appointed as a paralegal and Thanisha Sharma has started a paralegal apprenticeship.

Deborah Flynn, a Director and Head of Wills, Probate and Inheritance at Cartmell Shepherd, said: “We are extremely proud of the excellent reputation our department has across the North of England, and we are always looking at ways to improve the service we provide to our clients.

“We have recruited some experienced and knowledgeable solicitors who will enhance what we currently offer, while also investing in the future by welcoming staff members new to the industry who we will support and develop to maintain our strong commitment to serving our clients to the highest standards.

“This is a very exciting time for Cartmell Shepherd and our Wills, Probate and Inheritance department as we strive towards our goal of continually developing and improving our services and knowledge.”

Robert Hudson moved away from Cumbria to study law at Cambridge University, and he has a wealth of experience working with top law firms in London, Leeds and in his home county after returning 12 years ago.

He said: “I had dealt with staff at Cartmell Shepherd in my previous roles and I thought it would be a great team to work with. The chance of working within one of the largest and most reputable Probate, Wills and Inheritance teams in the North really attracted me to the role, and it will be great to have the support of such a strong and knowledgeable team.”

Laura Jinks is a familiar face at the company having previously worked there before relocating. She is returning as an Associate Solicitor five years after leaving – and after starting a family.

She said: “The company is incredibly supportive of people fitting their careers around their home life, and I’m happy to be in a new position where I can develop other members of staff while delivering a high level of service to my clients.”

Originally from Yorkshire, Kathryn Barnett brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise. She is a fully accredited member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers, certifying her expertise in supporting elderly and vulnerable people with legal advice.

Kathryn said: “I am delighted to be working with Cartmell Shepherd and there are many opportunities for career progression within the firm. The company has shown great support for me to develop both personally and professionally and is encouraging my passion to expand my support for elderly and vulnerable people.”

Beth Chattin will work towards her Solicitors’ Qualification Exam as a paralegal, following a three-year stint at a different law firm.

She said: “Having an extra day for studying has really benefited my development within law, and I really appreciate the support and guidance from the team at Cartmell Shepherd. I am really enjoying the variety of client which makes the role so interesting.”

After completing her A-Levels at West Lakes Academy, Thanisha Sharma has joined the company’s Cockermouth office. She will work as an apprentice paralegal for the next two years.

She said: “I have always been interested in law and I’m thankful for the opportunity provided by Cartmell Shepherd to allow me to learn while studying remotely, and I’m excited to learn from my colleagues and continue to progress within law.”