Record breaking year leads to senior recruits at regional law firm

Beverley business growth, from left: Katie Wright, James Marsden, Lindsey Rhodes and Alistair Latham

WILKIN CHAPMAN SOLICITORS  has expanded its Beverley office with three strategic appointments following a year of significant growth.

Two partners and a solicitor have been recruited to the firm, which is the largest in the East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire and ranked in the Lawyer’s Top 200 law firms. In its last financial year, the Beverley office reported record-breaking turnover for its services provided to businesses and individuals.

Corporate and commercial law expert Alistair Latham joins as a partner along with Katie Wright who specialises in agricultural law. Probate specialist Lindsey Rhodes joins as a solicitor.

Alistair will focus on family and owner-managed businesses, providing services which include advice on structures, succession and commercial contract matters. With more than 25 years’ experience, he excels in his understanding of the issues of importance to business clients and says that the sector specialisms of Wilkin Chapman will help him to deliver an outstanding service.

“The opportunity to work with experts across the firm to find the best solutions to clients’ needs attracted me to work here, along with the friendliness and enthusiasm of colleagues.

“The firm’s culture sets it apart and, ultimately, the clients benefit,” he said.

Katie Wright will work in the thriving agricultural law department alongside farmers and landowners involved in diversification of which she has significant experience. “My new role will allow me to focus on helping farmers with their renewable energy projects which is of great interest to me.

“Wilkin Chapman has a national reputation for agricultural law, and I saw this job as a superb long-term opportunity. I take great pride building strong relationships with my clients and getting to know their businesses so that I can offer the best legal solutions.”

Lindsey Rhodes, who joins Wilkin Chapman after a period working for an East Yorkshire firm, says that being a good probate solicitor requires more than an understanding of the legalities. “It is about delivering an exemplary, ethical service in a language that people understand, at what can be a difficult time in their lives.”

Partner James Marsden, who is head of the Beverley office, said that demand for services by business and private clients had increased dramatically over past two years.

“We are very pleased to have Alistair, Katie and Lindsey on board as we look to expand our capabilities and fulfil our aim to be the number one choice of law firm for the people of Beverley and East Yorkshire,” he said. “We hope that they can fulfil their career ambitions with us and make a significant contribution to our clients’ success.”

Wilkin Chapman has nearly 400 partners and staff working across five offices. The Beverley office opened in 2005 and now employs 46 people.