22 minute read
Happenings in Hampshire
Churchers announce Exciting Promotions Within Our Firm
We are delighted to announce a number of well-deserved promotions within the firm. These individuals have demonstrated exceptional dedication, expertise, and commitment to our clients, and we are proud to recognise their contributions.
Please join us in congratulating the following team members on their new roles:
Lucy Linnington – Senior Solicitor
Ellie Reynolds – Senior Solicitor
Victoria Nash – Senior Solicitor
Theresa Mills – Senior Solicitor
Eliza Dowker – Associate Solicitor
Gemma Roberts – Associate Solicitor
Catherine Young – Associate Solicitor
Daniel Cottrell – Partner and Joint Head of the Dispute Resolution team
Emily Manley – Partner
These promotions reflect our commitment to fostering talent and expertise within our firm. We look forward to their continued success in their new roles and the valuable contributions they will bring to our clients and colleagues.
Congratulations to all!
Law Firm Strengthens Leadership with Strategic Director Appointments
L-R: Chloe Saunders, Jennie Swaby and Natalie Courage
Portsmouth based Larcomes Legal Limited began life as a small family solicitors practice over a hundred years ago. The firm originally began by offering family advice locally and these days it still offers Family and Matrimonial advice but now also offers legal advice across a wide range of specialist areas in both their Portsmouth and Waterlooville offices.
Larcomes have served the people of ‘Portsmouth and Hampshire’ for the past 100+ years, and are very proud of their history, people and the services they offer. The firm don’t just judge their success on the standard of legal services they provide and the outstanding client service that they always strive to deliver. They also take responsibility in the community they live in very seriously and look to contribute in as many ways possible.
Larcomes has recently announced the appointment of three new dynamic Directors to the Board and these promotions are the first appointments of Directors since 2016. The new Directors are Chloe Saunders a specialist in Private Client Law, Jennie Swaby, a specialist Family Law Solicitor and Natalie Courage, who is the Compliance Officer for Finance and Administration (COFA) within the firm. Both Chloe and Jennie have been appointed to the status of full Directorships and Natalie Courage has been appointed as a non-lawyer Director.
Larcomes Managing Director, Richard Hopgood, says: “The Directors are delighted to have Chloe, Jennie and Natalie join the Board, adding their qualities and leadership skills to the running and direction of the practice. We know that each new Director will add considerably to the success of the firm moving forward”.
Parker Bullen Partnership expands with four new appointments
Top (left) Sarah Dureau and (right) Mark Barratt. Bottom (left) Mary Mowbray) and (right) Karen Clarkson.
With the start of a new financial year and after impressive expansion recently, local law firm Parker Bullen LLP are proud to announce the promotion of four employees to various positions within their Partnership; a positive reflection of the future for the firm.
Sarah Dureau, Mark Barratt and Mary Mowbray stepped up to Fixed Share Equity Partners as of 1st April, while Karen Clarkson entered Partnership as a Salaried Partner.
Mark Barratt, who will also become Head of Residential Property as of 1st April, joined as a Partner in May 2024 in the Romsey office. Mary Mowbray, who joined the firm in 2023, will also see a change in role; in addition to being promoted from Senior Associate to Equity Partner, she becomes Head of Commercial Property. Both Mark and Mary have made a very positive impact since joining the firm; each of them has their own strengths and specialisms and this move will bring new ideas and voices into the management of the business.
Sarah Dureau has been a Partner since joining the firm in 2022, launching the Witney office. Sarah, along with her colleagues, has made great strides with the firm’s presence in the area, expanding the team from two people to seven in just two years. The team regularly support local events and initiatives, and have built an enviable reputation within the town for their legal expertise as well as their community spirit.
Karen Clarkson, Marketing and Business Development Manager, has recently marked her three years with Parker Bullen LLP and has made revolutionary changes to their image, presence and profile during that time.
Gareth Horner, Managing Partner, commented about the promotions, “Welcoming Sarah, Mark and Mary into the ownership of the business is a significant step forward for us as a firm, and we are fortunate to have them invest in our future. They have supported new members of staff who have joined Parker Bullen, and have made progressive changes in how we work and provide our clients with the excellent service expected.
“Karen has been heavily involved in the strategic direction of the firm since coming on board so this next step is a natural progression for her. She has been instrumental in numerous projects, and her promotion also means she is our second Partner who is non-legally trained, following in the footsteps of Nikki Amon-Jones who became Finance and Administration Partner last year.”
In addition to their Partner promotions, the firm are celebrating further successes under their Career Pathway launched last year, with 14 other members of staff moving to roles such as Senior Associate, Associate, Senior Executive, Private Client Executive, Junior Executive and Senior Assistant.
Gareth concludes, “Our new Career Pathway has played a crucial role in our staff’s development and progression, offering them opportunities to further their career. I am looking forward to seeing where the future will take our remarkable staff.”
To find out more about a career at Parker Bullen LLP or how they could support you and your business, visit their website www.parkerbullen.com.
Lester Aldridge Celebrates Triple Exam Success
Lester Aldridge is delighted to announce that Lucy Taylor, Ben Hyndman and Kerry Bosher have successfully passed their SQE2 examinations.
Lucy and Ben are currently employed as paralegals at the firm and will begin their training contracts in September.
Kerry has been studying via the Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship, which she has now successfully completed. She will now undertake the final formalities required to qualify as a solicitor.
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination 2 (SQE2) is the second stage of assessment for aspiring solicitors in England and Wales. It tests practical legal skills through a series of oral and written assessments. The exam evaluates a candidate’s ability to apply legal knowledge in realistic scenarios, covering key areas such as client interviewing, advocacy, case and matter analysis, legal research, legal writing, and legal drafting. These skills are assessed across core practice areas, including dispute resolution, criminal litigation, property practice, wills and probate, and business law and practice, ensuring candidates are prepared for the demands of day-to-day legal work.
Karen Seber, Learning & Development Partner, said: “We are delighted that Lucy, Ben and Kerry have successfully completed their SQE exams. They have the strong work ethic, skills and attributes needed to excel in their next roles. I would like to wish them all continued success on their journeys to becoming newly qualified solicitors as they continue their legal careers with us.”
Membership to the Equity Release Council strengthens Property department
Parker Bullen LLP are delighted to have become members of the Equity Release Council, reinforcing their commitment to providing expert legal advice while adhering to the Equity Release Council’s strict code of conduct. Ensuring clients receive sound advice when considering Equity Release is crucial to enable them to make the right decision with all of the facts.
Rebecca East, Associate Solicitor within the firm’s Residential Property department, alongside Alison Daubney, Associate Chartered Legal Executive, represent the firm within the Equity Release Council.
Equity Release is an option only available to those aged 55 and over, allowing homeowners to release equity locked within their property. This method is often favoured as it can secure a loan against the home while the individual continues to live there, without the consideration for repayments until the property is sold.
The Equity Release Council represents the sector by setting out and establishing high standards of conduct and practice, ensuring that those who use an Equity Release Council Member receive expert advice.
Rebecca commented about the appointment to the ERC, “We understand that releasing equity from your home is a significant decision that will have an impact on various other areas in your life, for example when making plans for your estate in the future. As Equity Release Council members, we can ensure that you receive expert advice to enable you to make the right decision for your future. We will take the time to explain the options to you, taking into consideration your own personal situation, before assisting with the next steps.”
Scott Bailey strengthens family law offering with appointment of Sarah French
In April, Scott Bailey LLP welcomed experienced solicitor and accredited mediator Sarah French to its growing family law team in Lymington.
Sarah brings extensive expertise in resolving financial and children matters following separation, with a focus on minimising conflict and supporting clients through mediation, negotiation and collaborative law. Her appointment strengthens the firm’s capacity in non-court dispute resolution – a key area of growth – and reflects Scott Bailey’s ongoing investment in accessible, client-centred legal solutions.
Joining Head of Department Sarah Unsworth and fellow specialist Ann Herd, Sarah becomes part of a highly-regarded team offering clients across the New Forest a comprehensive range of options – from traditional representation to innovative models such as “Resolution Together - One Couple, One Lawyer”. The team also works closely with other professionals, including financial advisers and family consultants, to provide holistic support during what can be a challenging time.
Steele Raymond expands with acquisition of specialist construction law firm Reeves James
Leading regional law firm Steele Raymond has announced the acquisition of the business and assets of Reeves James, a specialist construction law practice based in Poundbury.
Founded in 2020 by Chris Reeves, Reeves James has built a powerful reputation advising developers, contractors, sub-contractors, consultants, and individuals on both contentious and non-contentious construction matters. With this acquisition, Steele Raymond establishes a dedicated construction law team, further strengthening its comprehensive legal service offering.
The new construction team will be headed by Chris Reeves, who joins Steele Raymond as a Partner. Dual-qualified as a solicitor and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building, Chris is also a member of the Technology and Construction Solicitor’s Association. He brings expertise in construction dispute resolution, with a focus on contractor claims, professional negligence, and complex technical disputes.
Chris will be joined by two apprentice solicitors: Lola Wilkinson and Ella Lakins, a legal secretary: Natasha Welch, and a further associate joining later this year.
Jennifer Rogerson, Managing Partner at Steele Raymond, said: “We are delighted that Chris will be joining Steele Raymond as partner of our new construction team. His appointment is a significant addition to our team of outstanding lawyers, who are dedicated to supporting our clients in achieving their ambitions.”
Chris added: “Steele Raymond’s reputation is second to none and I am excited to join this forward thinking and dynamic firm. I am very much looking forward to collaborating with the team and contributing to the firm’s continued growth.”
This strategic expansion follows the recent opening of Steele Raymond’s new office in Ocean Village, Southampton, on the 1st of April, further signalling the firm’s continued growth and regional presence.
Over the last five years, the full-service firm has almost doubled in size, increasing the partnership to 26 and developing niche, highly specialist teams within Residential Development, Property Litigation and Estate Planning and Tax, alongside expanding its already well-regarded Commercial and Private Client teams.
Sousa Law Marks a Year of Milestones
2025 is a landmark year for Sousa Law, the Southampton-based firm specialising exclusively in Family Law and Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR). As the firm celebrates major milestones and sustained growth, it remains firmly committed to its founding mission: delivering expert, empathetic legal support with a focus on resolving conflict, not inflaming it.
Leadership in Action
At the heart of the firm’s success is Cathy Sousa, Founder and Managing Director, who this year celebrates 20 years in legal practice. Cathy began her legal career in 2001 with a clear vision to practise family law with compassion, integrity and clarity, principles that have guided her every step of the way.
In 2009, she founded Sousa Law with the goal of creating a practice where families could resolve complex legal issues with dignity and respect. Today, the firm is a trusted name in non court dispute resolution, offering services including mediation, collaborative law, Resolution Together, and arbitration. Cathy herself trained in collaborative law before launching the firm, and her longstanding dedication to this approach has shaped Sousa Law’s ethos and identity.
Reflecting on her career, Cathy said:
“It has been a privilege to work in an area of law that makes a real difference to people’s lives. Over the years, I’ve seen family law evolve, but what hasn’t changed is the need for compassion and clarity. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved at Sousa Law and excited about the future, particularly with Emma joining me at partnership level.”
National Recognition
This year, Cathy was appointed to the Resolution National Committee, a role that positions her among the leading voices in family law across England and Wales. The committee is responsible for shaping national policy, professional standards, training initiatives, and public engagement strategies.
In addition to this, Cathy co-chairs Resolution’s Collaborative Working Party and is a respected trainer for Resolution’s foundation and refresher collaborative law programmes. Her contributions reflect not only her deep practical experience but also a strong commitment to improving family law through education and leadership.
“Resolution has always been close to my heart,” Cathy said. “I’m honoured to serve on the National Committee and contribute to national conversations about how we improve outcomes for families and reduce conflict in the system. It’s a challenging time for family law, but also one full of opportunity to shape meaningful change.”
A New Generation of Leadership
Sousa Law also celebrates the promotion of Emma Sanders to Partner, a move that signals the firm’s investment in the next generation of empathetic, progressive legal leadership.
Emma brings a unique perspective to her legal career, having previously worked as an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) and an Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA). These roles gave her invaluable insight into vulnerability, safeguarding, and client-led decision-making, skills that now underpin her legal practice.
Since joining Sousa Law, Emma has transitioned from a litigation-based approach to specialising in NCDR. She is a strong advocate for using non-court options where it is safe to do so, including in cases involving domestic abuse.
“Becoming a Partner is a real honour,” said Emma. “Coming from a background in advocacy, I’ve always been passionate about helping people feel heard and supported. Sousa Law’s values reflect that completely, and I’m proud to be part of a firm that approaches family law with such care and professionalism.”
Emma is widely praised for her calm, clear communication and her ability to build trust in emotionally sensitive cases. Her promotion represents not only recognition of her talents but a commitment to shaping the future of the profession with empathy and innovation.
Celebrating 15 Years with Community Focus
As Sousa Law marks its 15th anniversary, the firm is launching a new initiative: free 15-minute zoom appointments for clients and solicitors to explore NCDR options and discuss how to support victims of domestic abuse. This offering reflects Sousa Law’s long-standing commitment to early intervention, accessible guidance, and community education.
This celebratory initiative reinforces the firm’s belief in constructive solutions and its drive to make family law more approachable for everyone at a time when clarity and calm guidance are most needed.
Alongside this, Sousa Law is growing its team. The firm has recently welcomed two trainee solicitors, both of whom are embracing the firm’s values-driven approach. A previously trained solicitor has remained with the firm post-qualification, further highlighting the positive and nurturing workplace culture. To meet increasing demand, the firm is now actively recruiting another solicitor to join its expanding practice.
Looking Ahead
With Cathy celebrating two decades in legal practice and stepping into a national leadership role, and Emma taking her place as Partner, Sousa Law enters its next chapter with confidence and vision. The firm’s enduring commitment to NCDR, combined with a growing team positions it as a progressive force in family law both locally and nationally.
In a field where the human impact of every decision is profound, Sousa Law continues to lead with empathy, expertise, and a clear purpose. As the firm moves forward, it remains dedicated to helping families navigate difficult moments with dignity, and to building a legal future that resolves, not divides.
Three New Partners Join Steele Raymond to Support Strategic Growth
Steele Raymond, a leading regional law firm has further expanded its senior leadership team with the appointment of three new partners: Chris Marsden, Matt Crampton, and Chris Reeves. These key hires support the firm’s ongoing growth strategy and strengthen its capabilities across Property Disputes, Private Client, and Construction teams.
Chris Marsden joins the firm’s Property Disputes team, bringing over 17 years of experience in resolving complex property disputes. Formerly a partner at Moore Barlow, Chris specialises in delivering pragmatic, commercially focused outcomes for clients and will play a pivotal role in further developing Steele Raymond’s contentious property offering.
Matt Crampton joins the Wills, Trusts, and Probate team as a partner, following his role at Laceys Solicitors. With expertise in complex estate administration, succession planning, and powers of attorney, Matt enhances the firm’s private client services team.
Chris Reeves has been appointed partner and team leader of Steele Raymond’s newly established Construction team. He joins from Reeves James, a specialist construction law firm recently acquired by Steele Raymond. Dual qualified as a Solicitor and Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Building, Chris brings deep sector expertise in construction dispute resolution, including contractor claims, professional negligence, and technically complex disputes.
Jennifer Rogerson, Managing Partner commented: “The addition of Chris, Matt and Chris represents another major step in our strategic growth journey. Their experience and expertise significantly enhance our client offering, and we are delighted to welcome them to the partnership.”
Chris Marsden added: “Steele Raymond’s reputation for excellence, combined with its robust growth trajectory, made joining the firm a compelling opportunity. The collaborative culture has been a standout feature since joining, and I look forward to contributing to the firm’s continued success.”
The appointments mark a significant milestone in Steele Raymond’s strategic expansion. Over the past five years, the firm has nearly doubled in size, recently opened a new office in Ocean Village, Southampton, and has been recognised as a ‘Top Tier’ firm by The Legal 500. With twenty-six partners across its practice areas, Steele Raymond continues to invest in talent and specialist expertise to meet growing client demand and market opportunities.
Trethowans celebrates Partner promotions
Trethowans has announced the promotion of Jonathan Sherman, Franziska Prosch de Escate and Laura Towey to Partner, the newest Partners since Trethowans joined Lawfront.
Jonathan has over 10 years’ experience in corporate law with a range of expertise including acquisitions and disposals, investments, group reorganisations, employee share schemes, shareholder agreements and MBOs. Jonathan also has a specialism in acting for sellers in the holiday park sector.
Jonathan said “I am proud to have been promoted to Partner at what is a really exciting time for both the firm and the corporate team. I am incredibly grateful for the support that colleagues and external professionals have provided to me over the years to allow me to achieve this key milestone and I am looking forward to a bright future and contributing to the continued growth of the firm.”
Franziska, has been a commercial property lawyer for close to 13 years. She advises clients on a wide range of property transactions including acquisitions, disposals and lease arrangements and is also Head of our dedicated Plot Sales team, working with developers on residential and commercial new-build developments.
Franziska said “I am very proud to have been promoted to Partner at Trethowans LLP. I thank all those that have supported me along the way.”
Laura Towey, has been at Trethowans for 10 years and is ranked as a Notable Practitioner in the Chambers and Partners UK 2025 Guide. Laura acts for a broad spectrum of investment portfolio clients and specialises in land development for residential purposes.
Laura said ”Having started my training contract here 11 years ago, Trethowans is a place where I feel I have achieved so much and it is a firm that I am so proud to be part of. Being promoted to Partner really is such a proud moment for me, and it’s fantastic knowing there is such an exciting future ahead.”
Mike Watson, Managing Partner at Trethowans, comments on the promotions “We offer our congratulations to Jonathan, Franziska and Laura on their promotions to Partner. It’s a very exciting time for the firm and their promotions demonstrate our commitment to support and encourage growth from within and recognise the impressive talent that we have at Trethowans.’’
Grant Cameron: celebrating two years as Resolution Chair and 10 years at Trethowans
Last month, during the National Conference and after an inspirational two years, Grant Cameron handed over the baton as National Chair of Resolution.
During his time as Chair, Grant played an active role in a wide range of initiatives and events including the Past Chair’s Round Table, Parliamentary Round Table on cohabitation reform, the Resolution Awards and a series of engagements with MPs, the Ministry of Justice and HM Courts and Tribunals Service. At the Conference, the President of the Family Division, Sir Andrew MacFarlane, described Grant as being “sensible, measured, amiable and effective”.
Grant became Chair in 2023 as Resolution marked its 40th anniversary. As part of this milestone, he was closely involved in the launch of the Vision for Family Justice, a bold statement of intent for reform and innovation in the family justice system. His tenure concluded with Resolution’s Year of the Code, a campaign that reaffirmed the value of Resolution’s Code of Practice in helping families navigate separation constructively, with children’s interests at heart.
Reflecting on his time as Chair, Grant said: “I had a remarkable two years being Chair. Thank you to our members who make the organisation so unique and for all the work they do within the regions and various committees.”
Grant has also remained committed to hearing from members across the country, helping to strengthen Resolution’s regional presence and ensure the organisation remains responsive to those it serves.
While stepping down as Chair, Grant remains passionate about the future of family law. Resolution’s work continues, campaigning for cohabitation reform, pressing for fairer Legal Aid funding and making sure the voices of children are heard in meaningful ways. Grant encourages all members to get involved, noting that “the more active you are, the further your membership will go.”
This spring, Grant also celebrated 10 years as a Partner at Trethowans. He has been a family law solicitor for 35 years, including more than 15 years as a collaborative lawyer and mediator. Congratulations to Grant on two significant milestones and the impact he has made both nationally and within Trethowans..
Trethowans Joins Lawfront
Trethowans has joined the fast-growing legal services group, Lawfront
Lawfront is made up of leading regional law firms that have a strong brand for client service, a dedication to their people, and management teams that have a history of delivering profitable growth.
Trethowans organic growth has been impressive over recent years, with annual revenue hitting £30m last financial year. Highly ranked by Legal 500 and Chambers and recognised by the prestigious ‘The Times Best Law Firms 2025’ list. The ambition of Trethowans is to continue this growth.
Joining Lawfront allows Trethowans to expand and improve the services it offers, further develop its people and increase its investment in technological advancements in an ever-changing industry.
Mike Watson, Trethowans Managing Partner, commented: “Trethowans is a forward-thinking law firm, and our partnership with Lawfront presents an excellent opportunity to under-pin and accelerate our growth following a year in which turnover grew by more than 20%.
“Our excellent reputation in delivering high-quality, client centric, services and the strength of our commitment to our people and communities in which we work provide a solid foundation for continued success.
“With Lawfront’s support, we look forward to expanding the Trethowans brand within our existing office locations and beyond. Being part of a larger group while preserving our brand identity and culture is a distinctive feature of Lawfront that made this partnership very compelling.”
Neil Lloyd, Lawfront CEO, said:
“I am delighted to welcome another strategic partner to our rapidly growing group. Trethowans has such a strong brand and reputation in its region, and we are impressed with their own rapid growth and entrepreneurial, nononsense approach to legal services.
“Lawfront are increasingly seen as the leading consolidator in the regional full service legal market: backing firms’ management teams, preserving their client facing brands, enhancing the prospects of their people and bringing to bear considerable experience in marketing, IT, finance, people and compliance. The high-quality firms, such as Trethowans, that have partnered with Lawfront are testament to our leading position. We provide a very credible alternative to the equity partnership model of ownership, addressing concerns of succession, legacy and the scale of investment required to remain competitive. I really look forward to working with Mike Watson and his team to continue and accelerate Trethowans’s growth.”
