Shropshire Lawyer July 2023

LAWYER

THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SHROPSHIRE LAW SOCIETY

MARATHON EFFORT

DIGITAL MARKETING FOR LAW FIRMS

SHROPSHIRE LEGAL

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PUBLISHER

Ian Fletcher Benham Publishing

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Joanne Casey

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Karen Hall

STUDIO MANAGER

John Barry

MEDIA No.

1996

PUBLISHED

Summer 2023 © The Shropshire Law Society Benham Publishing Ltd.

LEGAL NOTICE

© Benham Publishing.

None of the editorial or photographs may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publishers. Benham Publishing would like to point out that all editorial comment and articles are the responsibility of the originators and may or may not reflect the opinions of Benham Publishing. No responsibility can be accepted for any inaccuracies that may occur, correct at time of going to press. Benham Publishing cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies in web or email links supplied to us.

DISCLAIMER

The Shropshire Law Society welcomes all persons eligible for membership regardless of sex, race, religion, age or sexual orientation.

All views expressed in this publication are the views of the individual writers and not the society unless specifically stated to be otherwise. All statements as to the law are for discussion between members and should not be relied upon as an accurate statement of the law, are of a general nature and do not constitute advice in any particular case or circumstance.

Members of the public should not seek to rely on anything published in this magazine in court but seek qualified Legal Advice.

COVER INFORMATION

Photo of Kate Cooper used with permission.

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Editorial

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Poppy’s second chance at love

Poppy’s owner first contacted her local rehoming centre and said she needed to hand Poppy, a four year old Chihuahua cross, over to us as she had sadly recently been given a diagnosis that she had a terminal illness. She was advised to apply for a free Canine Care Card and nominate a Dog Guardian; someone she trusts to sign over the care of Poppy to Dogs Trust should she need it. She’d then be able to spend the most time possible with Poppy and feel reassured that she’d be given the best possible care at Dogs Trust when they could no longer be together.

When Poppy’s Dog Guardian contacted us to advise that her owner was now receiving palliative care and that they needed to activate her Canine Care Card, Poppy was collected by Dogs Trust the very next day. After a vet and behavioural assessment we decided the best place for Poppy would be a loving foster home. We were able to advise the foster carers of all the information we’d been given by Poppy’s owner regarding her life, diet and routine to enable us to make this transitional period as stress-free as possible for Poppy.

Within almost no time, we were able to find very affectionate Poppy a lovely new home for her second chance at love.

Poppy’s story is one of many we come across at Dogs Trust.

Many owners are growing increasingly worried about gradually losing their independence or their health deteriorating. Dogs Trust want to offer owners peace of mind that we will be there at this difficult time to care for and rehome their four legged friends should the worst happen.

Therefore we’re pleased to announce that we have extended our Canine Care Card service. Dogs Trust will care for your dog should you move into a care home, become seriously ill or pass away.

For more information on our Canine Care Card service and how to register your dog please type in this link www.dogstrust.org.uk/ccc where you will find our online application form and more information on our free service.

If you have any queries regarding the Canine Care Card please email CCC@dogstrust.org.uk or call 020 7837 0006 and we will be happy to help. ■

President’s Foreword Summer 2023

This is now my third Shropshire Lawyer Magazine and I could not be more proud of the work Shropshire and Welsh Solicitors have been doing over the past few months.

Kate Cooper of Hatchers Solicitors who is a regular participant in running events for charity really did champion what Shropshire Lawyers are all about in her participation of the London Marathon. Also coming third in the Shropshire Bake off.

It is refreshing to see that Richard George and Jenkins has decided to retain a Shropshire office to continue providing legal aid provision in the area. It is as ever a confidence boost to the area to see so many firms taking on trainees and progressing their careers.

This magazine can only exist with your contributions to which I am very grateful to those who have contributed but please do let me have your future articles either as a one off, or regular features emailed to info@ shopshirelawsociety.com. 

Danny Smith President

Danny Smith

Your Committee

Danny Smith

PRESIDENT

PCB Solicitors, Cypress Centre, Shrewsbury Business Park, Shrewsbury danny.smith@pcblaw.co.uk

Lucy Speed VICE PRESIDENT

Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors, Chapter House North, Abbey Lawn, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury, SY2 5DE lucy.speed@lblaw.co.uk

Victoria Pugh

TREASURER

Hatchers Solicitors, Welsh Bridge1, Frankwell, Shrewsbury, SY3 8JY, v.pugh@hatchers.co.uk

Robert Adams

Wace Morgan Solicitors, 21 St Mary’s Street, Shrewsbury, SY1 1ED robert.adams@wmlaw.co.uk

David Raymont

MFG Solicitors

Padmore House, Hall Park Way, Telford david.raymont@mfgsolicitors.com

Jenny Bromwich

Shropshire Family Law, 47 Whitehall Street, Shrewsbury, SY2 5AD j.bromwich@shropshirefamilylaw.com

Mark Turner

Aaron and Partners, Lakeside House, Oxon Business Park, Shrewsbury, SY3 5HJ Mark.Turner@aaronandpartners.com

Samantha Roberts

FBC Manby Bowdler, Juneau House, Sitka Drive, Shrewsbury Business Park, Shrewsbury, SY2 6LG samantha.roberts@fbcmb.co.uk

Samantha Millea

PCB Solicitors, Trevithick House, Stafford Park 4, Telford, TF3 3BA samantha.millea@pcblaw.co.uk

Charlotte Nutting

Roy Thornes Solicitors, Crossway, 156 Great Charles Street, Queensway, Birmingham, B3 3HN

CharlotteNutting@roythornes.co.uk

Gemma Williams

Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors, The Business Quarter, Eco Park Road, Ludlow, SY8 1FD Gemma.Williams2@lblaw.co.uk

Christine Rimmer

Hatchers Solicitors, Welsh Bridge1, Frankwell, Shrewsbury, SY3 8JY C.Rimmer@hatchers.co.uk

Hannah Harrison

NFU Mutual, Mutual House, Shrewsbury Business Park, Sitka Drive, Shrewsbury Hannah.Harrison@nfu.org.uk

Zoe Smith

ORJ Solicitors, Blount House, Hall Park Way Telford TF3 4NQ zoe.smith@orj.co.uk

Katie Hughes-Beddows

Aaron and Partners, Lakeside House, Oxon Business Park, Shrewsbury, SY3 5HJ

Katie.Hughes-Beddows@aaronandpartners.com

Hannah Fynn

Aaron and Partners, Lakeside House, Oxon Business Park, Shrewsbury, SY3 5HJ Hannah.Fynn@aaronandpartners.com

Nicola Davies

Agri Advisor, Glynton House, Henfaes Lane, Trallwng, Powys, SY21 7BE Nicola@agriadvisor.co.uk

Gemma Hughes

Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors, Chapter House North, Abbey Lawn, Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury, SY2 5DE gemma.hughes@lblaw.co.uk

Rachel Davenport

Clarke’s Solicitors 21 High Street , Newport, Shropshire TF10 7AT rachel.davenport@clarkeslaw.co.uk

Digital marketing for law firms: What it is and why you need it

When it comes to marketing your law firm online, many law firms struggle to find the right approach.

Should you start a blog or put yourself on social media? How much attention does your website need? Do you need to spend a lot of money and time to be effective?

It can feel hard to find the answers to these questions when times are good; in more challenging economic times, digital marketing can feel like even less of a priority.

While marketing budgets are often first on the chopping board, cutting out digital marketing is a mistake. Building a strong online presence is essential to surviving and thriving for all law firms.

Marketing helps firms stay front-of-mind among their target audience. If you’re seeking to improve (or begin) marketing online, here are some easy and low-cost tips to keep in mind.

Make sure your website stands out

A massive 96% of people who seek legal advice search online as their first port of call. As such, it is essential that your website is up to scratch and up to date when they come looking. Key things to pay attention to are: Is the site easy to navigate? Does it contain easy-to-understand language? Does it work well on a mobile phone?

Pay attention to your online reputation

Clio’s 2022 Legal Trends Report showed that client reviews are the most important factor when clients are considering hiring a law firm—substantially topping other major considerations, such as location, billing type, and office type. Incentivise positive reviews by asking clients proactively to review you. Be sure you make it easy for them to leave a review and build this step into your existing processes.

Embrace content marketing

Content is king when it comes to digital marketing. Creating regular content can help you to demonstrate your firm’s expertise, build trust in your firm, and increase your website’s position online. An easy way to start is by publishing a law firm blog, making sure you also share your articles across other channels (such as LinkedIn and Facebook).

Get your social media approach right

There are five cardinal rules when marketing your law firm via social media:

1. Avoid bragging or begging

2. Don’t forget about hashtags

3. Create curated legal content

4. Showcase firm activity outside of representation

5. Demonstrate your personality

Taking just these simple—and low-cost—steps can help your law firm to thrive. Want to learn more?

Clio’s ‘A Guide to Online Marketing for Law Firms’ expands on all of the above steps to give you a playbook for online law firm marketing without breaking the bank. Download the guide for free at Hampshire : clio.com/shropshire-marketing 

Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels.

SHROPSHIRE AND WELSH LAWYERS

MEET WITH THE ATTORNEY AND SOLICITOR GENERAL

Craig Williams MP, hosted a dinner at the Royal Oak Hotel in Welshpool with special guests the Attorney General Victoria Prentice KC MP, and the Solicitor General Michael Tomlinson KC MP joined by Danny Smith and Ruth Harris from PCB Solicitors, Francis Tomlinson, Robert Hanratty and Sophia Nazar from Hanratty and Co Solicitors, William Ransford and Victor from NJJ Solicitors and Annie Smith and her trainee from Harrisons Solicitors and Henrietta Hencher from Craig Williams MP’s team.

It was a perfect evening with the Attorney General and Solicitor General, as well as enjoying great company and great food they allowed open questions to be put to them about our profession and it was refreshing to report that both Victoria Prentice KC and Michael Tomlinson KC were both receptive to the questions and gave very straight answers to those questions and I am confident as President of the Shropshire Law Society that they listened to those problems and had very much in mind the difficulties that

are faced particularly by those Solicitors practicing in the Welsh market towns and border towns but also of the plight facing rural practices. I do hope to see more of the Attorney General and Solicitor General in Shropshire and the Welsh border practices.

Not unsurprisingly given the Welsh speakers around the table, that the conversation soon turned to the Welsh language, it was so impressive how many of the Solicitors in the room could speak sufficient Welsh including Ruth Harris and those who have made a real effort to learn the language.

It was also a delight that Victor, nephew of one of the Solicitors in Welshpool was also in attendance, because this gives real comfort that younger people are still choosing the profession. Annie Smith was also really informative about the new Solicitors qualifying exam and the Solicitors Apprentice Scheme and it is hoped that she will be able to pass on this knowledge to other Solicitors within the area.

FORMER TRAINEE JOINS OSWESTRY FAMILY TEAM

AShropshire law firm has congratulated a former trainee who has qualified as a solicitor and joined the family law department.

Rachel Tomley started her career at Lanyon Bowdler following the completion of her Legal Practice Course and LLM in Professional Legal Practice in 2020 and is now a new member of the family team in Oswestry.

Sue Hodgson, head of Lanyon Bowdler’s family team, said Rachel would be a valuable addition to the team.

She said: “As a firm, we are proud to provide opportunities for lawyers starting out in their legal careers and it’s always a wonderful moment when a trainee qualifies as a solicitor.

“Rachel has proved herself to be a very capable lawyer and I am delighted she has joined the family team in Oswestry where she will be a great asset to the firm and our clients.”

Rachel said she was looking forward to assisting with the growing demand for advice in family law matters.

NEW

She said: “I have experienced a wide range of legal cases and issues during my training contract at Lanyon Bowdler, completing seats within the court of protection, clinical negligence, family, and personal injury departments.

“Everyone at the firm has always provided me with a great level of support and supervision, and helped me develop my skills that will last my entire career. After spending six months with the family department, I am very pleased to be returning on a permanent basis as a newly-qualified solicitor.

“The training contract has given me a fantastic basis for my legal career and I am proud to have now qualified as a solicitor in the family department.

“After growing up in Oswestry, and knowing there is an increasing demand for family work in the area, I am delighted to join Caroline Yorke, who is an associate solicitor, at the Oswestry office.

“Here, I will develop my experience within divorce, finances and child arrangements under the supervision of Caroline.” 

am delighted to announce that James Ashton of PCB Solicitors has become Police Station and Court Accredited which means that he is now on the Duty Solicitor for rota for Telford.

I am also pleased to announce that Chloe Byrne of WMB Law has also passed the same accreditation joining the Telford rota.

These achievements are not easily obtained, they require exams and portfolios to assess their competences in representing clients at the police station and Magistrates Courts.

The life of a Criminal Solicitor is not 9am until 5pm and I am pleased that both James and Chloe have undertaken this exam which provides security that this provision will continue within the Shropshire area. 

Rachel Tomley

I

DUTY SOLICITORS FOR THE SHROPSHIRE AREA

James Ashton Chloe Byrne

NEW TRAINEES STARTING CONTRACTS WITH SHROPSHIRE LAW FIRM

AShropshire law firm has welcomed a new intake of trainees as it continues its commitment to helping aspiring lawyers take the first step in their professional career.

Lanyon Bowdler runs an award-winning training programme, which has seen dozens of trainees and apprentices qualifying as solicitors in recent years.

Brian Evans, managing partner at Lanyon Bowdler, said the latest additions had settled into their training contracts very well - having already worked in different roles for the firm.

He said: “We have recently welcomed Kelly Reynolds, Sophie Speirs and Jemma Parocki to our training programme, joining Claudia Booth, who started her training contract in January.

“All four of them are already familiar with the firm, having worked in various administrative roles before being accepted as trainees this year.

“It’s always great to see the ambition and drive of our trainees to succeed, and we hope all four will go on to enjoy long careers in the legal profession.”

Kelly Reynolds joined Lanyon Bowdler in 2021 as a paralegal, assisting solicitors at court hearings and client meetings, before beginning her training contract.

She said: “I aspire to qualify as a solicitor and be recognised for my expertise in my chosen field. I would hope I can progress within my role to an associate and then potentially a partner one day, but that is a long way off yet!”

Sophie Speirs worked as a litigation assistant before joining Lanyon Bowdler and said the training contract had been a great experience so far.

She added: “I have also enjoyed going back to my roots at the University of Wolverhampton’s careers events, representing the firm to the current students and advising them on their career paths.

“Like Kelly, my aspiration is to be an extremely successful solicitor and partner at Lanyon Bowdler - I am not set on which department specifically but that’s the beauty of a training contract.”

Jemma Parocki has been with the firm since 2020, following experience in the teaching profession and a stint studying law in Australia as part of her university course.

She said: “Lanyon Bowdler is highly-regarded as a great training firm and I am delighted to have started as a trainee.

“My ambition post-qualification is to remain at the firm and become a partner within five years.” 

Kelly Reynolds, Sophie Speirs and Jemma Parocki

SHROPSHIRE LAW FIRMS ANNOUNCE ACQUISITION OF CRIMINAL DEPARTMENT

Two law firms have agreed the transfer of a “well established and highly thought of” criminal department due to the planned retirement of its head solicitor.

Lanyon Bowdler’s criminal department will become part of Richard George and Jenkins on June 1, with all existing lawyers and clients being invited to transfer as part of the agreement.

Adrian Roberts, who was head of Lanyon Bowdler’s criminal department for more than 20 years, will remain working on a part-time basis over the coming year to ensure a smooth transition before his retirement.

He said: “I hope this move will be welcomed by our clients because it enables us all to keep working together, albeit with a different name above the door.

“All of the existing members of the criminal department are moving over as part of the transition, so in reality our clients should not really notice any difference - this agreement simply means we have more opportunities to assist more clients in the future, particularly following my retirement.

“Richard George and Jenkins is a well respected firm and I would like to thank everyone involved for ensuring our clients will continue to receive the excellent legal support that they have come to expect from Lanyon Bowdler.”

Richard George and Jenkins Solicitors has been providing legal services in the local area for over 100 years and, as well as the firm’s new Shrewsbury office in Bicton Heath, which is where the newly-acquired criminal department will be based, has offices in Newtown, Aberystwyth and Llanidloes.

Michael Davies, senior partner at Richard George and Jenkins, said: “We are excited to announce the acquisition of Lanyon Bowdler’s criminal department, which is well established and highly thought of throughout the Shropshire and Herefordshire areas.

“The team we have acquired is highly experienced, professional and hardworking and we are delighted to add them to our ever expanding team at Richard George and Jenkins.

“We would like to thank Lanyon Bowdler for their cooperation in getting this deal completed and both firms are committed to making sure the transfer is as smooth and seamless as possible, and to maintaining a close working relationship moving forward.”

Brian Evans, managing partner at Lanyon Bowdler, added: “On behalf of the partners and staff at Lanyon Bowdler, I would like to thank Adrian and the team for their years of service with us, and we wish them all the very best for the future.”

Any clients with any queries can contact Lanyon Bowdler on 01743 280280 or Richard George and Jenkins on 01686 626120. 

SHROPSHIRE LAWYERS CELEBRATE NATIONAL ACCREDITATION

Two solicitors at a Shropshire law firm have been officially recognised as being among the best in the country for helping people with clinical negligence cases.

Natasha Gibbons and Adam Hodson, of Lanyon Bowdler, have been accredited by APIL (Association of Personal Injury Lawyers) for outstanding specialist knowledge and excellent support of their clients.

APIL is a not for profit organisation which helps people with their legal journey towards obtaining compensation for injuries that have been suffered due to personal injury and clinical negligence, which can be life-changing.

It works to promote and develop expertise in personal injury law, for the benefit of injured people, and being an accredited lawyer is a highly-respected accolade.

Natasha Gibbons, who has been a clinical negligence specialist at Lanyon Bowdler since 2015, said she was honoured to receive the APIL accreditation.

She said: “I’m thrilled to have been recognised for my specialist expertise in dealing with clinical negligence cases.

“I’m passionate about working to secure positive outcomes for my clients and to contribute to improvements in clinical standards across England and Wales. It is an honour to have this dedication and my competency in doing so recognised.

“At Lanyon Bowdler, we pride ourselves on our specialist expertise and are committed to providing an excellent service to our clients.

“The firm’s support to further my professional development and to attain this accreditation is reflective of this.”

Adam Hodson, who as well as being a clinical negligence solicitor is also an assistant coroner, said APIL was a wellrespected organisation.

He said: “APIL does a lot of really important work to help victims of clinical negligence find justice, and I am delighted to be an accredited solicitor.

“A clinical negligence case is not just about securing vital financial compensation which can greatly improve someone’s quality of life, it’s about finding answers and making sure the same mistakes are not repeated.

“Clients often feel like a weight has been lifted from their shoulders on the successful conclusion of a case, and it’s a privilege to help them bring some kind of closure on what is often an extremely traumatic part of their life.”

For advice about clinical negligence claims, visit www.lblaw.co.uk or call 01743 280280 

Natasha Gibbons Adam Hodson

ONIONS & DAVIES WELCOME

NEW FAMILY LAW SOLICITOR TO GROWING TEAM

At Onions & Davies, we pride ourselves on our friendly, personal approach while providing specialist, professional advice on many areas of law, including family law. The Directors are delighted to welcome Family Law Solicitor Simeon Bowen-Fanstone to the team.

Simeon qualified as a solicitor in August 2018, and has had a broad legal experience across a range of different firms, from high-street firms to a large regional firm in the East Midlands, and even a boutique family law firm in the NorthWest.

Simeon’s work comprises divorce and financial remedy, child arrangement orders, cohabitee disputes, separation agreements, and protective injunctions. Simeon is also able to assist in relation to Change of Name Deeds, and he runs a weekly Family Law Drop-in Clinic providing information and guidance in Market Drayton to those in need of some free initial advice and signposting.

Simeon is a proud member of Resolution, and is committed to a constructive approach to dealing with Family Law issues. He is skilled in the law, and practical when it comes to helping clients navigate the finer details of family law, such as financial remedy and child arrangements. He prides himself on a no-nonsense and honest way of working. He works to the Resolution Code of Practice, and promotes a conciliatory and cost-effective approach to resolving family law matters.

Simeon is skilled at assisting parties to reach agreement, but will not shy away from taking a firmer approach when this is required. Simeon regularly conducts his own advocacy for clients in Court, and provides support for his clients from start to finish.

Simeon is looking forward to getting involved with, and enhancing, Onions and Davies’ reputation as a firm which is active within its local community.

Louise Martin, Head of Family, comments: “I have had the pleasure of working with Simeon Bowen-Fanstone and am truly thrilled that he has agreed to join and grow our family team at Onions & Davies Solicitors. Simeon’s approach is one which combines an excellent knowledge of family law alongside a sense of practicability. Simeon demonstrates an excellent rapport with clients by offering them real solutions. He provides a safe pair of hands in which clients can place their sensitive family law issues.”

Onions and Davies are proud to be linked to the armed forces via the Armed Forces Covenant Scheme through their pledge in 2016, and the practice was awarded Employer Recognition Gold Status in 2022. We offer discounted fees to members of the armed forces and their families, and we also offer discounted fees to employees of the NHS.

Onions & Davies are also committed to charitable work, and raised over £1,600 last year for local charity, Severn Hospice. Throughout 2023, Onions & Davies are raising funds for Staffordshire charity, Dougie Mac, and Directors Louise Martin & Chris Milne recently raised over £300 by taking part in the Dougie Mac 5km race.

Onions & Davies also like to sponsor local events and local good causes, where possible, such as new literature for the library, sponsorship of the Market Drayton Carnival, the Ginger and Spice Festival, and local school sports kits. We have also signed up to the Safe Places Shropshire Scheme.

We are thrilled at Onions & Davies to welcome Simeon to our growing team! Please contact Simeon at simeon@ onionsanddavies.co.uk or 01630 652405. 

Louise Martin and Simeon Bowen-Fanstone Simeon Bowen-Fanstone

OVERCOMING LEGAL RECRUITMENT CHALLENGES WITH OUTSOURCING SOLUTIONS

The legal industry continues to face challenges in recruiting and hiring top talent. Despite efforts, the Quarterly Recruitment Outlook, as reported by the British Chambers of Commerce, highlights the absence of signs easing. In this article, we consider outsourcing as a solution to aid legal firms with recruitment.

Sasha Ullah, HR Consultant at WR Partners, continues, "The Lattice 2023 State of People Strategy report highlights, "Nearly 80% of professional services firms will increase their investment in talent retention in 2023.

Identifying and engaging with candidates with the right skills, experience, and cultural fit for your organisation is essential. This takes time and resources from day-to-day priorities, and business owners must consider where their time is most valuable.

There are many considerations to optimise the overall recruitment strategy, including; employer branding and positioning, broad talent network and targeted sourcing, streamlined recruitment processes & inclusive recruitment. Organisations that embrace change and adapt to the evolving expectations of the modern workforce find themselves at the forefront of recruitment success. Organisations must create work environments that foster flexibility, work-life balance, and meaningful growth opportunities. This takes a lot of time and typically requires policies and procedures that need implementation to ensure success.

Through a comprehensive employer branding initiative, you can shape a positive image of your organisation. It's important to highlight your unique strengths, values, and opportunities for professional growth, effectively positioning you as an employer of choice within the legal industry. By conveying the compelling story of your organisation, we increase your appeal to potential candidates.

Efficiency is key in navigating the competitive legal recruitment landscape. As an outsourced HR consultant, we can help streamline your recruitment processes, leveraging technology and best practices to optimise candidate

screening, assessment, and selection. We can reduce timeto-fill vacancies and ensure a seamless experience for your organisation and candidates.

Diversity and inclusion catalyse any organisation's innovation, creativity, and success. By prioritising diversity, we help build a more inclusive legal industry that thrives on varied perspectives and experiences. It's important to demonstrate these considerations through policies and practices throughout the recruitment process.

In a highly competitive job market, organisations that innovate, stand out. Strategic outsourcing empowers legal entities to leverage the expertise of professional providers who understand the market dynamics and emerging trends. While legal recruitment poses challenges, organisations that embrace outsourcing solutions are well-positioned to unlock opportunities and achieve success.

Strategic partnerships with outsourced providers infuse optimism into recruitment efforts, allowing organisations to attract legal talent and build high-performing teams that thrive in the evolving legal landscape.

You can contact Sasha at sullah@wrpartners.co.uk or 08000 664 664. 

Sasha Ullah HR Consultant at WR Partners

Sasha Ullah

Image by Hannah

MARATHON EFFORT

Kate Cooper first caught the running bug in 2012. It seemed like an easier hobby to take up than starting (and paying for) a gym membership or trying to get involved in team sports. Kate trained for four months to complete her first half marathon in Birmingham and she was hooked. It's a hobby that has continued for over a decade now and has lead to her running several times a week, taking part in lots of local races over the years and joining a local running club, The Shropshire Shufflers.

Lots of people who get the running bug also start to get the marathon itch too and the absolute pinnacle for lots of runners being The London Marathon. Kate applied for a place through the annual ballot without success for 8 years.

Kate had yet another rejection email last year in September. However, her running club had secured two highly coveted places and she was lucky enough to win one of those places.

Kate found out just before Christmas that she would finally get to run in London on 23rd April this year.

Kate allowed herself to rest and indulge over Christmas then the hard work began on the 1st January. Kate followed a structured training plan for 16 weeks which involved four runs a week with additional cross training sessions. The training really does test your commitment. Kate said “...It is incredibly time consuming and very hard to fit in around work commitments. Particularly hard for me being a busy criminal lawyer here in Shropshire so my weeknights and weekends are already often filled with late night trips to the police station...” As the training runs got longer, it got harder to fit them in but Kate said that she works with a very supportive team at Hatchers Solicitors who gave her plenty of encouragement and allowed her to work from home so she could more easily fit long training runs in before or after work.

After 16 long weeks, the day finally came and in true British style, it rained from the moment Kate arrived at the start area until around Mile 23. Kate completed the marathon in glorious sunshine and it was such an amazing moment for her. “It was one of the best things I have ever done”, says Kate Cooper from Hatchers Solicitors. Kate said the atmosphere was carnival like and to have so many strangers calling your name and cheering is the best feeling. To anyone who is contemplating running The London Marathon, whether that be for charity or for their own personal achievement, my advice is to 100% go for it.” 

RISKY BUSINESS

David Mermod, owner of X-Press Legal Services Central considers why conveyancing is becoming an increasingly risky business for solicitors…

recommend staying abreast of compliance updates and industry articles and available webinars.

Perhaps reflecting the unease across the industry, attendance at our webinars has never been stronger. Receiving, up-to-the-minute insights from leading conveyancing peers is invaluable to those in private practice.

Developments in Commercial Property and Landlord and Tenant” presented by commercial property law developments easements, covenants, nuisance, and other property rights impacting upon use or issues tenant matters

For law firms, fraud is a real and growing risk. Conveyancing in particular can be an attractive vehicle for criminals to launder money, particularly due to the complexities of transactions and multiple opportunities to employ artifice. This risk is sometimes underestimated by private client practitioners, who are often in high street firms dealing predominantly with local and longstanding clients. While some client profiles and transactions may be perceived as lower risk than others, it is impossible to eradicate the risk completely when dealing with transactional work.

with the above bullet points, please don’t include)

Smaller firms can often be viewed as an easier target for cyber criminals which is why at X-Press we have built the protective conveyancing arm that every small practice now requires. Our work with digital service providers has made us advocates of this route and we believe utilising our Intelligent Online Conveyancing System (ICOS) is the safest way of protecting every transaction and most importantly, your practice.

Hencote Ln, Shrewsbury SY4 3AA

The pressure on conveyancing professionals to remain compliant and audit ready at all times has never been higher. It is one of the most discussed concerns among our clients who are under immense pressure to complete transactions without falling foul of regulating authorities and compliance regulations.

0330 159 5365 E: DavidM.1365@xpresslegal.uk to book your place www.xpresslegal.co.uk

If you are responsible for your firms AML strategy, then alongside ensuring you are following industry guidance to the letter and completing due diligence, I would also

We firmly believe that every law firm should be utilising the latest digital products to fulfil due diligence and compliance requirements. In our case ICOS is swift to access and from there professionals have an array of products at their fingertips including law firm identity checks, source of funding checks and anti-money laundering checks. Find out more and register for the latest events and webinars www.xpresslegal.co.uk/events. 

Recent Developments in Commercial Property

and Landlord and Tenant Presented by Alan Riley

• A general review of recent commercial property law developments

• Recent cases affecting easements, covenants, nuisance, and other property rights impacting upon use or development of land

• Other land acquisition issues

• Commercial landlord and tenant matter

Includes a short presentation from Jeremy Haigh (Apogee Property & Utility Consultants) on utility searches for commercial lawyers.

Date: 27 September 2023 Cost: £20 per delegate

Venue: Hencote Vineyard, Hencote Lane, Shrewsbury SY4 3AA

Contact: David Mermod T: 0330 159 5365

E: DavidM.1365@xpresslegal.uk to book your place

www.xpresslegal.co.uk

Alan Riley Jeremy Haigh

Hi,I'm Kate

AML breaches hit the headlines again. Is your law firm compliant?

This month HMRC published details of hundreds of businesses fined a total of £3.2 million for breaching anti-money laundering rules.

The high-ticket sums involved in property transactions puts the conveyancing sector in the high risk category – a fact not lost on insurers, with law firms that work on property transactions paying much higher professional indemnity premiums than those that don’t.

The good news is…we’re here to help with our comprehensive portfolio of the very best services and technology solutions to help law firms reduce risk and maximise compliance, while increasing the speed and efficiency of every process and transaction.

Avoid AML breaches with our Complete Compliance Solution

One of the ways we can help is through our Index Complete Compliance Solution, a service more and more law firms, not just here in Shropshire, but across the whole of England and Wales, are tapping into.

Having supported The Law Society on their Conveyancing Quality Scheme since 2021, we’re perfectly placed to advise and guide clients on the systems, processes and technology they need to have in place to not only avoid AML breaches but to be audit-ready for regulators.

Recently, the Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP) at a law firm we started working with in November summed up this service as being “a huge weight off our shoulders.”

I think your law firm would feel the same way.

Kate Bould Managing Director Index PI West Midlands

Case Study for our Index Complete Compliance Solution service

Actions:

Following a Free Compliance Health Check for our client, the report recommended implementing Digital AML and Source of Funds solutions, which we then did.

Outcome:

As a direct result, in October 2022, the client saved 9% on their PII renewal (nearly £7,000) versus their previous year’s premium.

Free On-demand Webinar Index with The Law Society

With our expertise in compliance, last month The Law Society invited us to host a webinar entitled Unknown Risks –A step-by-step Guide to Financial Crime Prevention.

Topics included:

• AML risk, ‘safe harbour’ solutions & ongoing monitoring

• Source of Wealth & Source of Funds

• Know your Client & Know your Business

• Running Sanctions & PEP checks on new & existing clients

• International & Domestic checks – when to use & risk explained

Watch now on The Law Society website: lawsociety.org.uk/events/recordings

My Legal Indemnity Shop save time & ensure compliance

Moving away from AML but still with compliance, our recent launch of My Legal Indemnity Shop from Index West Midlands has drawn rave reviews from users. The new comparison website for indemnity insurance lets you compare the costs and features of up to 4 quotes from major competing ‘A’ rated insurers, in less than 60 seconds!

Bespoke quotes are also available and there’s full support, via live chat, email, and phone from the specialist underwriters at DUAL Asset, who are our partners.

Timesaving isn’t the only benefit. My Legal Indemnity Shop also ensures your compliance.

By presenting a choice of quotes from different insurers, you’re providing your client with ‘fair value’ which cannot be construed as making a personal recommendation. Furthermore, all quotes come with a Disclosure and Demands and Needs statement.

Visit My Legal Indemnity Shop: indexwestmidlands.my-legal-indemnity-shop.com

My Legal Indemnity Shop

Our Services & Technology Solutions

We help law firms reduce risk, maximise compliance and speed up every process and transaction. Our fully compliant, best-in-class services and technology offer solutions for:

• Client Onboarding

• ID Checks

• AML with ‘Safe Harbour’

• Source of Funds Checks

• Searches & Enquiries

• Document Retrieval Service

• Title Indemnity Insurance

• Completion Checks

• Lender Checks

• AP1s

• SDLT

• CQS Compliance

• Cyber Essentials

Compare 4 quotes in less than 60 seconds & ensure your compliance too!

from Index West Midlands indexwestmidlands.my-legal-indemnity-shop.com

Follow us on LinkedIn

Our regional LinkedIn page highlights new housing schemes in our region with conveyancing opportunities, national and regional property sector news, invitations to our free and on-demand webinar programme and much more besides.

linkedin.com/company/index-wm

Best

SHROPSHIRE LAWYERS BAKE OFF 2023

It was a delight to host the Shropshire Law Society Bake Off on the 3rd May 2023, where Professional Chef Stuart Bruce judged some amazing bakes. It was a good night had by all in aid of the West Mercia Search and Rescue, where we raised over £60 for that charity.

The theme of the bake off was the coronation of King Charles III and competitors, certainly met the challenge of producing delicious cakes within that theme.

Julie Bowman of PCB Solicitors, a family secretary came through as the champion baker. She made 12 cupcakes where Stuart Bruce said “they were the lightest cupcakes he had ever tried”.

In second place was a baker from Clarkes Solicitors and third place, Kate Cooper from Hatchers Solicitors.

All of the baker’s cakes were impressive and some bakers missed out only by one or two points. The winners received a trophy and a copy of the Mary Berry Baking Bible. I am sure that all who attended would agree that it was the people eating the cake that were the true winners.

Well done Shropshire Bakers, we hope to see this event in the future which I know will be hotly contested.

We thank Stuart Bruce from The Chase Golf Country Club who I know almost on a daily basis produces high quality food. 

SHROPSHIRE FAMILIES GETTING READY FOR SUPERHERO SERIES

Athree-year-old Telford boy is taking on a “superhero challenge” to raise money for the charity which is providing lifechanging physiotherapy for him.

Jaxson Hollinshead, of Ketley, who is undergoing treatment at The Movement Centre in Oswestry, and is one of hundreds of people with disabilities taking part in the Superhero Series.

Clare and Matt Hollinshead, Jaxson’s parents, decided to take part in the event to raise funds for The Movement Centre, which Clare said had already had a big impact on Jaxson’s life.

She said: “Jaxson has Downs Syndrome, hypotonia and hypermobility which means he finds it very difficult to walk.

“He started having physiotherapy at The Movement Centre in January and the difference has been amazing - he can now walk with the help of his frame and his confidence has really improved.

“We thought the Superhero Series would be a good challenge for Jaxson and a chance to give something back to The Movement Centre, so he will be walking one kilometre around the running track at Shrewsbury Sports Village on August 6, which will be a huge achievement for him.

“The challenge will take place alongside a fun run being organised by How Hard Can It Be events, who are being kind enough to allow Jaxson to join in so we would like to say a big thank you to them.”

Shropshire law firm, Lanyon Bowdler, is sponsoring participants entering the Superhero Series for The Movement Centre.

People can either participate at the event itself, which takes place at Dorney Lake in Windsor, or by undertaking their own challenge linking with the day. The whole ethos is that people of any ability can achieve their goal, with the support of “sidekicks” who support them along the way.

The Movement Centre, based at the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Hospital in Oswestry, is an official charity friend of the Superhero Series with three families taking part, and is urging people to support them on their journey.

Amanda Jones, of Lanyon Bowdler, said: “The Superhero Series is a fantastic project, and it is a pleasure to be able to support people like Jaxson and his family in their challenges.

“As a firm, we are providing financial assistance to cover the entry fees for The Movement Centre, and are also offering staff members to take part if any entrants need a sidekick.

“We wish Jaxson and everyone taking part every success - they are all truly inspiring.”

Curtis Langley, fundraising and marketing officer at The Movement Centre, said: “The Superhero Series is an amazing inclusive event that the families who attend The Movement Centre can take part in.

“We can’t thank the families enough for signing up to raise vital funds towards our work. Another thank you must go to Lanyon Bowdler, who are very kindly sponsoring our team’s entry into the event.” 

The Art And Craft Of Judgment Writing

A Primer for Common Law Judges

By Max Barrett

WE ALL KNOW WHICH JUDGES SHOULD READ THIS BOOK!

An appreciation by Elizabeth Robson Taylor MA of Richmond Green Chambers and Phillip Taylor MBE, Head of Chambers, Reviews Editor, “The Barrister”, and Mediator

The title of this excellent book from Globe is “The Art and Craft of Judgment Writing”, with the subtitle “A Primer for Common Law Judges”- and it is just that!

The author is a Irish judge called Max Barrett. All the usual judicial suspects are present in the book including my favourites, Lords Denning, and Reid. If you have ever wondered how judgments materialize, then this is the book for you.

As the author says, judges are increasingly aware that the best way of enhancing public confidence in court systems is not only by providing a quality service but doing so compassionately and respectfully. And the Lord Chief Justice has just reminded the judiciary of this approach!

For the twenty-first century, the art and craft of judgment-writing is a critical element of this process. This title from Globe Law reviews the judgments of historically great judgment-writers from across the world: the USA, UK and the wider common law world covering Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, Israel, and New Zealand. The book is written not from the perspective of what the Judge Barrett can teach but with the aim of “identifying essential elements of good judgment-writing in great judgments and insightful commentary”. And he does it brilliantly.

The author is Dr Max Barrett, who is a judge of the High Court of Ireland. The work contains individual chapters which focus on subjects such as judgment purpose, length, style, and structure, concurring and dissenting judgments, judgment-writing for children and vulnerable parties, as well as more general lessons in good writing offered by great authors from George Orwell (UK) to Mark Twain (USA).

Among the primers gleaned from great common law judges are these: a good judgment possesses an ability to rise above immediate facts and to see a problem in its wider perspective; a sense of empathy/ sympathy for those faring badly is always important, and that there is nothing wrong with language that is occasionally flowery and ornate. Although we are rightly advised that the best judgments are “crisp and persuasive”, and generally they are.

Celebrated authors such Twain suggest these tips: every element of a judgment should be necessary to that judgment and any unnecessary element excised; any person or event included in a judgment should be included for a reason, and that a judge should always use the right word for what she wants to state, ‘not its second cousin’.

Globe Law and Business notes that the book is “intended for novice superior court judges, their more seasoned colleagues and all with an interest in legal writing (including legal practitioners, law teachers and law students)”.

In the lower courts where cases start, the judiciary are required to write judgments which are not necessarily in the law reports but the judges should find the book of great value. And, as our colleagues agree, judges at all court levels should find the additional chapter on ex tempore judgments of help.