Laceys Solicitors Laceys is a leading, forward-thinking law firm with specialist experts serving both individual and business clients across a broad spectrum of practice areas.

Gemma is the head of our mediation department and a Family Mediation Council Accredited lawyer mediator. Gemma qualified as a solicitor in 2000 and joined Laceys in 2001. She has specialised in family law since qualifying as a solicitor and has worked full time as a mediator since 2009.

Gemma is qualified in all areas of family mediation, including divorce and financial settlements, child arrangements and property disputes between cohabitees.  She is also qualified to see children as part of the mediation process.  Gemma is able to draw on her legal expertise when helping couples work out complex financial settlements and new parenting arrangements.

In her spare time Gemma likes to spend time with her family, especially her dog who never answers back.  Her chosen stress beaters are running, swimming and the beach.

Gemma is the head of our mediation department and a Family Mediation Council Accredited lawyer mediator. Gemma qualified as a solicitor in 2000 and joined Laceys in 2001. She has specialised in family law since qualifying as a solicitor and has worked full time as a mediator since 2009.

Gemma is qualified in all areas of family mediation, including divorce and financial settlements, child arrangements and property disputes between cohabitees.  She is also qualified to see children as part of the mediation process.  Gemma is able to draw on her legal expertise when helping couples work out complex financial settlements and new parenting arrangements.

In her spare time Gemma likes to spend time with her family, especially her dog who never answers back.  Her chosen stress beaters are running, swimming and the beach.

Mark qualified as a solicitor in 2008 after gaining an LLB (2003) and LLM (2005) at university’s in Birmingham.  He completed his training contract with the North Dorset and South Wiltshire firm now known as Farnfields LLP and joined Horsey Lightly Fynn (HLF) in Bournemouth in 2011.  He became a partner at HLF in 2014 and at merger of HLF and Laceys became a partner in the merged firm in 2015.

Mark is a partner working across our Commercial and Residential property teams acting for a wide variety of clients from property developers, property investors, businesses, first time buyers and those needing advice relating to enfranchisement and residential landlord and tenant dealing with all aspects of property work.

Away from work Mark spends his time with his wife and their three young boys who keep them very busy.

Robin studied law at the University of Southampton before achieving Distinction in a postgraduate law diploma at Bournemouth University in 2011 and being awarded the Dorset Magistrates’ Association Excellence in Advocacy Award.

Robin qualified as a solicitor with Laceys in 2011, and is now one of Laceys partners, specialising in employment law advising employers, HR Directors and managers on all aspects of complex employment law and day-to-day HR issues.

In addition, Robin completed a demanding course and examination process and qualified as a Solicitor-Advocate early on in his career. This entitles Robin to appear in all civil courts and enhances the service he can provide to clients.

Robin is able to bring his previous experience in management outside of the law and also, understands the real demands and issues involved in HR. Robin takes responsibility for the HR of Laceys which includes circa. 100 employees and so has experienced what it is really like to deal with frontline HR issues and his clients genuinely benefit from that. It enables Robin to give practical and clear advice based on real experience, as well as utilising his legal knowledge and experience.

Robin has advised and represented a national hotel and restaurant group concerning multiple redundancies and general ongoing employment law/HR support and also recently advised and represented a financial services organisation in a High Court contractual dispute.

Robin has previously advised a local charity regarding potential pay claims and represented a senior charity executive.

As part of his service Robin likes to provide training to his clients and their HR teams.

Away from work Robin enjoys cycling, cooking and eating. Lately, Robin has (again) started sketching and is trying to convince himself that he has a talent!

To find out more about Robin becoming Partner and why he chose to specialise in Employment law click here;

Edwina has returned to Laceys after working for Womble Bond Dickinson in Southampton and is an Associate within our Corporate and Commercial team. Edwina specialises in commercial contracts, intellectual property and charity law and has experience in drafting, negotiating and advising on a variety of agreements. Since qualifying in 2011, she has advised a range of businesses in various sectors. This includes a secondment working in-house for a well-known multi-national retailer.

Edwina has been listed in the Legal 500 as having an “incredible knowledge and a drive to do things right’. She enjoys getting to know a client’s business in order that she can provide tailored, practical advice.

Outside of work Edwina enjoys practising yoga, walking her energetic Labrador in the beautiful Dorset countryside and generally keeping active as well as spending quality time with her family and friends.

Jonathan heads up Laceys family department with over 30 years experience in Family Law.

He specialises in Family and Relationship Breakdowns, Financial Remedies, Collaborative Law and International Family Law.

Jonathan has a exceptional caring nature and will always strive to find solutions to family issues outside of the court if at all possible.

Outside of work Jonathan likes to keep himself busy by competing in Ironman 70.3’s when he gets the chance – which are no easy feat at having to complete a 1.2 mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and then a 13.1 mile run each race!

Having joined Laceys in 2018, Byron qualified as a solicitor in 2019 and is delighted to be working within the dispute resolution team, with a focus on employment matters, debt recovery and landlord and tenant disputes.

Byron completed his first degree in modern language studies with the Open University in 2010 with a 2.1 (hons). He then studied law at Bournemouth University, passing the Graduate Diploma in Law with merit and the Legal Practice Course with distinction.

Before coming to law, Byron lived and worked around the world, from France to Bolivia, teaching English as a foreign language. From his travels and studies, Byron speaks fluent French and Spanish, as well as bits of other languages. As well as travel, Byron likes to spend his free time outdoors (weather permitting) and playing music.

Jonathan heads up Laceys family department with over 30 years experience in Family Law.

He specialises in Family and Relationship Breakdowns, Financial Remedies, Collaborative Law and International Family Law.

Jonathan has a exceptional caring nature and will always strive to find solutions to family issues outside of the court if at all possible.

Outside of work Jonathan likes to keep himself busy by competing in Ironman 70.3’s when he gets the chance – which are no easy feat at having to complete a 1.2 mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and then a 13.1 mile run each race!

Having joined Laceys in 2018, Byron qualified as a solicitor in 2019 and is delighted to be working within the dispute resolution team, with a focus on employment matters, debt recovery and landlord and tenant disputes.

Byron completed his first degree in modern language studies with the Open University in 2010 with a 2.1 (hons). He then studied law at Bournemouth University, passing the Graduate Diploma in Law with merit and the Legal Practice Course with distinction.

Before coming to law, Byron lived and worked around the world, from France to Bolivia, teaching English as a foreign language. From his travels and studies, Byron speaks fluent French and Spanish, as well as bits of other languages. As well as travel, Byron likes to spend his free time outdoors (weather permitting) and playing music.

Mark qualified as a solicitor in 1989 and since then has specialised in property and landlord and tenant disputes, possession and debt recovery in relation to both commercial and residential property. He has extensive experience in relation to issues involving blocks of flats including representation in the Property Chamber and the courts. He has also dealt with many commercial disputes, professional negligence and insolvency claims.

He has frequently given talks on the law as it affects managing agents through the Association of Residential Managing Agents and other groups.

He has been recommended for many years by the Legal 500 Guide to the Legal profession which has said that Mark ‘is very highly rated by clients’, ‘explains complex issues in understandable terms’ and ‘is excellent in really difficult situations’. He is a committee member of the Bournemouth Law Society and a governor of Dumpton School.

Mark is married with 2 teenage children and at weekends can often be found on his boat which he sails competitively.

Robin studied law at the University of Southampton before achieving Distinction in a postgraduate law diploma at Bournemouth University in 2011 and being awarded the Dorset Magistrates’ Association Excellence in Advocacy Award.

Robin qualified as a solicitor with Laceys in 2011, and is now one of Laceys partners, specialising in employment law advising employers, HR Directors and managers on all aspects of complex employment law and day-to-day HR issues.

In addition, Robin completed a demanding course and examination process and qualified as a Solicitor-Advocate early on in his career. This entitles Robin to appear in all civil courts and enhances the service he can provide to clients.

Robin is able to bring his previous experience in management outside of the law and also, understands the real demands and issues involved in HR. Robin takes responsibility for the HR of Laceys which includes circa. 100 employees and so has experienced what it is really like to deal with frontline HR issues and his clients genuinely benefit from that. It enables Robin to give practical and clear advice based on real experience, as well as utilising his legal knowledge and experience.

Robin has advised and represented a national hotel and restaurant group concerning multiple redundancies and general ongoing employment law/HR support and also recently advised and represented a financial services organisation in a High Court contractual dispute.

Robin has previously advised a local charity regarding potential pay claims and represented a senior charity executive.

As part of his service Robin likes to provide training to his clients and their HR teams.

Away from work Robin enjoys cycling, cooking and eating. Lately, Robin has (again) started sketching and is trying to convince himself that he has a talent!

To find out more about Robin becoming Partner and why he chose to specialise in Employment law click here;

Kenneth is the elder statesman of our mediation team, with forty years’ experience as a family lawyer, and qualified as a mediator in 1996. Kenneth has been a key member of the Laceys mediation team since 2005, specialising in financial and children cases, with a particular interest and specialisation in high conflict cases.

Kenneth is also qualified to consult with children, a growing part of the mediation process. Always looking to expand the boundaries of mediation practice,  Kenneth brings a degree of gravitas, humour, understanding and empathy when he mediates with clients,  creating a positive environment in which clients work together to resolve their issues quickly and cost-effectively.

Out of office hours, Kenneth’s main passion is writing musical theatre. When he has time Kenneth also enjoys travel, especially cruising.

Mark qualified as a solicitor in 1989 and since then has specialised in property and landlord and tenant disputes, possession and debt recovery in relation to both commercial and residential property. He has extensive experience in relation to issues involving blocks of flats including representation in the Property Chamber and the courts. He has also dealt with many commercial disputes, professional negligence and insolvency claims.

He has frequently given talks on the law as it affects managing agents through the Association of Residential Managing Agents and other groups.

He has been recommended for many years by the Legal 500 Guide to the Legal profession which has said that Mark ‘is very highly rated by clients’, ‘explains complex issues in understandable terms’ and ‘is excellent in really difficult situations’. He is a committee member of the Bournemouth Law Society and a governor of Dumpton School.

Mark is married with 2 teenage children and at weekends can often be found on his boat which he sails competitively.

Jonathan heads up Laceys family department with over 30 years experience in Family Law.

He specialises in Family and Relationship Breakdowns, Financial Remedies, Collaborative Law and International Family Law.

Jonathan has a exceptional caring nature and will always strive to find solutions to family issues outside of the court if at all possible.

Outside of work Jonathan likes to keep himself busy by competing in Ironman 70.3’s when he gets the chance – which are no easy feat at having to complete a 1.2 mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and then a 13.1 mile run each race!

Aisling began her training contract at Laceys in 2020, and will gain experience across each specialism in 3 month rotations. Aisling developed a variety of communication skills in her previous role to ensure clients are informed and well looked after.

Having spent the majority of her studies in London where she lived opposite Canary Wharf and studied in Islington, she returned home to Bournemouth to commence her final year of study at Bournemouth University which she thoroughly enjoyed. Aisling is keen to discover the different areas of law during her training contract at Laceys to decide where to settle.

Away from work, Aisling enjoys running and HIIT workouts as well as walking Stavely, her Cairn Terrier. With all that exercise, Aisling delights in a glass of red wine and is a total foodie enjoying dining with friends and family both out to restaurants and dining at home.

Philip graduated from Trinity College Cambridge in 1978 with an Upper Second BA in Law and was admitted as a solicitor in January 1981 having been articled in the Government Legal Service.  After working as a prosecutor for HM Customs and Excise for two years, Philip moved into private practice in Reading.  There, he specialised in criminal work both prosecuting for agencies such as British Transport Police, Hampshire Police, The Department of Trade and Industry and the RSPCA and defending private clients before beginning to specialise in licensing in 1985.

Philip moved to Bournemouth in 2001 and has ever since specialised in alcohol and entertainment licensing for pubs, clubs, hotels, restaurants, off-licences and events, including large scale outdoor festivals and fairs as well as betting and gaming.  His practice and experience includes associated work such as noise and environmental issues.

Outside of work, Philip has a busy family life as well as being a Town Councillor and organises events on behalf of Ringwood Council, including Fireworks displays and the annual Christmas lights switch-on and festive market.

Jonathan heads up Laceys family department with over 30 years experience in Family Law.

He specialises in Family and Relationship Breakdowns, Financial Remedies, Collaborative Law and International Family Law.

Jonathan has a exceptional caring nature and will always strive to find solutions to family issues outside of the court if at all possible.

Outside of work Jonathan likes to keep himself busy by competing in Ironman 70.3’s when he gets the chance – which are no easy feat at having to complete a 1.2 mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and then a 13.1 mile run each race!

Mark qualified as a solicitor in 2008 after gaining an LLB (2003) and LLM (2005) at university’s in Birmingham.  He completed his training contract with the North Dorset and South Wiltshire firm now known as Farnfields LLP and joined Horsey Lightly Fynn (HLF) in Bournemouth in 2011.  He became a partner at HLF in 2014 and at merger of HLF and Laceys became a partner in the merged firm in 2015.

Mark is a partner working across our Commercial and Residential property teams acting for a wide variety of clients from property developers, property investors, businesses, first time buyers and those needing advice relating to enfranchisement and residential landlord and tenant dealing with all aspects of property work.

Away from work Mark spends his time with his wife and their three young boys who keep them very busy.

Sam joined Laceys back in 2015 to help look after the marketing for the firm. Her role includes managing branding, website content, events, advertising and social media for Laceys.

Before joining Laceys Sam worked for over 10 years in several marketing agencies in London, managing client projects across different sectors, ranging from Coca Cola to the Department of Health. Having grown up in Poole herself, Sam and her family took the decision to move back to the South Coast a few years ago to bring up their young children.

Outside of work, Sam is a keen racquetball and tennis player and getting out on her bike to the Purbecks when time allows. She is also partial to a good glass of wine and dance when the opportunity arises!

Sam joined Laceys back in 2015 to help look after the marketing for the firm. Her role includes managing branding, website content, events, advertising and social media for Laceys.

Before joining Laceys Sam worked for over 10 years in several marketing agencies in London, managing client projects across different sectors, ranging from Coca Cola to the Department of Health. Having grown up in Poole herself, Sam and her family took the decision to move back to the South Coast a few years ago to bring up their young children.

Outside of work, Sam is a keen racquetball and tennis player and getting out on her bike to the Purbecks when time allows. She is also partial to a good glass of wine and dance when the opportunity arises!

Edwina has returned to Laceys after working for Womble Bond Dickinson in Southampton and is an Associate within our Corporate and Commercial team. Edwina specialises in commercial contracts, intellectual property and charity law and has experience in drafting, negotiating and advising on a variety of agreements. Since qualifying in 2011, she has advised a range of businesses in various sectors. This includes a secondment working in-house for a well-known multi-national retailer.

Edwina has been listed in the Legal 500 as having an “incredible knowledge and a drive to do things right’. She enjoys getting to know a client’s business in order that she can provide tailored, practical advice.

Outside of work Edwina enjoys practising yoga, walking her energetic Labrador in the beautiful Dorset countryside and generally keeping active as well as spending quality time with her family and friends.

Edwina has returned to Laceys after working for Womble Bond Dickinson in Southampton and is an Associate within our Corporate and Commercial team. Edwina specialises in commercial contracts, intellectual property and charity law and has experience in drafting, negotiating and advising on a variety of agreements. Since qualifying in 2011, she has advised a range of businesses in various sectors. This includes a secondment working in-house for a well-known multi-national retailer.

Edwina has been listed in the Legal 500 as having an “incredible knowledge and a drive to do things right’. She enjoys getting to know a client’s business in order that she can provide tailored, practical advice.

Outside of work Edwina enjoys practising yoga, walking her energetic Labrador in the beautiful Dorset countryside and generally keeping active as well as spending quality time with her family and friends.

Jonathan heads up Laceys family department with over 30 years experience in Family Law.

He specialises in Family and Relationship Breakdowns, Financial Remedies, Collaborative Law and International Family Law.

Jonathan has a exceptional caring nature and will always strive to find solutions to family issues outside of the court if at all possible.

Outside of work Jonathan likes to keep himself busy by competing in Ironman 70.3’s when he gets the chance – which are no easy feat at having to complete a 1.2 mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and then a 13.1 mile run each race!

Having joined Laceys in 2018, Byron qualified as a solicitor in 2019 and is delighted to be working within the dispute resolution team, with a focus on employment matters, debt recovery and landlord and tenant disputes.

Byron completed his first degree in modern language studies with the Open University in 2010 with a 2.1 (hons). He then studied law at Bournemouth University, passing the Graduate Diploma in Law with merit and the Legal Practice Course with distinction.

Before coming to law, Byron lived and worked around the world, from France to Bolivia, teaching English as a foreign language. From his travels and studies, Byron speaks fluent French and Spanish, as well as bits of other languages. As well as travel, Byron likes to spend his free time outdoors (weather permitting) and playing music.

Philip graduated from Trinity College Cambridge in 1978 with an Upper Second BA in Law and was admitted as a solicitor in January 1981 having been articled in the Government Legal Service.  After working as a prosecutor for HM Customs and Excise for two years, Philip moved into private practice in Reading.  There, he specialised in criminal work both prosecuting for agencies such as British Transport Police, Hampshire Police, The Department of Trade and Industry and the RSPCA and defending private clients before beginning to specialise in licensing in 1985.

Philip moved to Bournemouth in 2001 and has ever since specialised in alcohol and entertainment licensing for pubs, clubs, hotels, restaurants, off-licences and events, including large scale outdoor festivals and fairs as well as betting and gaming.  His practice and experience includes associated work such as noise and environmental issues.

Outside of work, Philip has a busy family life as well as being a Town Councillor and organises events on behalf of Ringwood Council, including Fireworks displays and the annual Christmas lights switch-on and festive market.

Beverley is part of Laceys Private Client team, specialising in will preparation, lasting powers of attorney and administration of estates for probate.

Beverley enjoys the personal aspect of her work, helping people overcome bereavement and making the best out of often difficult, emotional circumstances. She deals with clients from all walks of life, and remains down to earth at all times, removing the legal jargon so clients understand their situations.

Having recently had a baby, Beverley has very little spare time, but she is still a fan of F1 Racing  and retains her love of shopping, films and holidays in the sun!

Philip graduated from Trinity College Cambridge in 1978 with an Upper Second BA in Law and was admitted as a solicitor in January 1981 having been articled in the Government Legal Service.  After working as a prosecutor for HM Customs and Excise for two years, Philip moved into private practice in Reading.  There, he specialised in criminal work both prosecuting for agencies such as British Transport Police, Hampshire Police, The Department of Trade and Industry and the RSPCA and defending private clients before beginning to specialise in licensing in 1985.

Philip moved to Bournemouth in 2001 and has ever since specialised in alcohol and entertainment licensing for pubs, clubs, hotels, restaurants, off-licences and events, including large scale outdoor festivals and fairs as well as betting and gaming.  His practice and experience includes associated work such as noise and environmental issues.

Outside of work, Philip has a busy family life as well as being a Town Councillor and organises events on behalf of Ringwood Council, including Fireworks displays and the annual Christmas lights switch-on and festive market.

Kenneth is the elder statesman of our mediation team, with forty years’ experience as a family lawyer, and qualified as a mediator in 1996. Kenneth has been a key member of the Laceys mediation team since 2005, specialising in financial and children cases, with a particular interest and specialisation in high conflict cases.

Kenneth is also qualified to consult with children, a growing part of the mediation process. Always looking to expand the boundaries of mediation practice,  Kenneth brings a degree of gravitas, humour, understanding and empathy when he mediates with clients,  creating a positive environment in which clients work together to resolve their issues quickly and cost-effectively.

Out of office hours, Kenneth’s main passion is writing musical theatre. When he has time Kenneth also enjoys travel, especially cruising.

Jonathan heads up Laceys family department with over 30 years experience in Family Law.

He specialises in Family and Relationship Breakdowns, Financial Remedies, Collaborative Law and International Family Law.

Jonathan has a exceptional caring nature and will always strive to find solutions to family issues outside of the court if at all possible.

Outside of work Jonathan likes to keep himself busy by competing in Ironman 70.3’s when he gets the chance – which are no easy feat at having to complete a 1.2 mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and then a 13.1 mile run each race!

Kenneth is the elder statesman of our mediation team, with forty years’ experience as a family lawyer, and qualified as a mediator in 1996. Kenneth has been a key member of the Laceys mediation team since 2005, specialising in financial and children cases, with a particular interest and specialisation in high conflict cases.

Kenneth is also qualified to consult with children, a growing part of the mediation process. Always looking to expand the boundaries of mediation practice,  Kenneth brings a degree of gravitas, humour, understanding and empathy when he mediates with clients,  creating a positive environment in which clients work together to resolve their issues quickly and cost-effectively.

Out of office hours, Kenneth’s main passion is writing musical theatre. When he has time Kenneth also enjoys travel, especially cruising.

Having joined Laceys in 2018, Byron qualified as a solicitor in 2019 and is delighted to be working within the dispute resolution team, with a focus on employment matters, debt recovery and landlord and tenant disputes.

Byron completed his first degree in modern language studies with the Open University in 2010 with a 2.1 (hons). He then studied law at Bournemouth University, passing the Graduate Diploma in Law with merit and the Legal Practice Course with distinction.

Before coming to law, Byron lived and worked around the world, from France to Bolivia, teaching English as a foreign language. From his travels and studies, Byron speaks fluent French and Spanish, as well as bits of other languages. As well as travel, Byron likes to spend his free time outdoors (weather permitting) and playing music.

Deborah is a Chartered Legal Executive who has worked in the Private Client department at Laceys for over 18 years.

Deborahs journey to Laceys started in 1985 when she qualified as a FILEX. She then undertook her Associateship in Taunton and completed her Fellowship in Poole.  Aside from a couple of years in Gibraltar, Deborah then gained valuable experience working for various local firms in their private client departments before joining Laceys in 2000.

She specialises in all areas of private client work, wills, powers of attorney, tax planning, Court of Protection, administration of estates, NHS Continuing Care, welfare benefits and all issues related to the elderly and infirm. She finds this area of law quite holistic – it is not just a matter of applying rules and regulations but organising a client’s affairs in such a way that they are made easier and clearer during what can be a very emotional and upsetting time.  Her work requires a very good and patient listening ear, bedside manner and sometimes a sense of humour but still achieving the client’s objectives on time.

When time permits she enjoys reading, cooking and relaxing by the Christchurch River but only when the sun shines! Travelling is a great hobby but there is never enough time to visit all. She has four stepchildren, four grandchildren plus a nephew and niece who help keep her busy at home!

Deborah is a Chartered Legal Executive who has worked in the Private Client department at Laceys for over 18 years.

Deborahs journey to Laceys started in 1985 when she qualified as a FILEX. She then undertook her Associateship in Taunton and completed her Fellowship in Poole.  Aside from a couple of years in Gibraltar, Deborah then gained valuable experience working for various local firms in their private client departments before joining Laceys in 2000.

She specialises in all areas of private client work, wills, powers of attorney, tax planning, Court of Protection, administration of estates, NHS Continuing Care, welfare benefits and all issues related to the elderly and infirm. She finds this area of law quite holistic – it is not just a matter of applying rules and regulations but organising a client’s affairs in such a way that they are made easier and clearer during what can be a very emotional and upsetting time.  Her work requires a very good and patient listening ear, bedside manner and sometimes a sense of humour but still achieving the client’s objectives on time.

When time permits she enjoys reading, cooking and relaxing by the Christchurch River but only when the sun shines! Travelling is a great hobby but there is never enough time to visit all. She has four stepchildren, four grandchildren plus a nephew and niece who help keep her busy at home!

Mark qualified as a solicitor in 1989 and since then has specialised in property and landlord and tenant disputes, possession and debt recovery in relation to both commercial and residential property. He has extensive experience in relation to issues involving blocks of flats including representation in the Property Chamber and the courts. He has also dealt with many commercial disputes, professional negligence and insolvency claims.

He has frequently given talks on the law as it affects managing agents through the Association of Residential Managing Agents and other groups.

He has been recommended for many years by the Legal 500 Guide to the Legal profession which has said that Mark ‘is very highly rated by clients’, ‘explains complex issues in understandable terms’ and ‘is excellent in really difficult situations’. He is a committee member of the Bournemouth Law Society and a governor of Dumpton School.

Mark is married with 2 teenage children and at weekends can often be found on his boat which he sails competitively.

John joined Laceys in 2001 on a training contract, having completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Law in 2000, and qualified as a solicitor in 2003. He is now the Head of the Commercial and Residential Property Departments.

He is also the firm’s Senior Responsible Officer under the Law Society Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) with overall responsibility for the management of the property team and their delivery of the excellent service that our clients have come to expect.

John acts in his own capacity for a number of commercial property owners, developers and investors, but also allocates time to ensure his team are up to speed with changing law and professional regulations and clients are provided with members of the team who possess the right skills to deal with their individual requirements, delivering projects in the most time and cost-efficient manner.

Outside of work John seems to spend a great deal of time ferrying his children around but occasionally gets to put his feet up and listen to his eclectic collection of vinyl. He is also not averse to a good cheeseboard and a glass of IPA.

John joined Laceys in 2001 on a training contract, having completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Law in 2000, and qualified as a solicitor in 2003. He is now the Head of the Commercial and Residential Property Departments.

He is also the firm’s Senior Responsible Officer under the Law Society Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS) with overall responsibility for the management of the property team and their delivery of the excellent service that our clients have come to expect.

John acts in his own capacity for a number of commercial property owners, developers and investors, but also allocates time to ensure his team are up to speed with changing law and professional regulations and clients are provided with members of the team who possess the right skills to deal with their individual requirements, delivering projects in the most time and cost-efficient manner.

Outside of work John seems to spend a great deal of time ferrying his children around but occasionally gets to put his feet up and listen to his eclectic collection of vinyl. He is also not averse to a good cheeseboard and a glass of IPA.

Ella completed her Law LLB Hons degree at the University of Surrey graduating in 2013 and subsequently the LPC at the University of Law. Ella joined us to commence her training contract in 2014 and qualified into our corporate and commercial team in March 2016, now acting on a wide variety of corporate, commercial and employment matters ranging from local businesses to national companies.

Ella can assist with business and share transactions, shareholders’ agreements, drafting articles of association and other general company law matters. Ella also advises on employment law aspects predominantly in a corporate context. In particular, her work includes drafting and reviewing contracts of employment, providing assistance and advice on TUPE transfers, and other general employer advice.

Outside of work Ella enjoys going for long runs around Bournemouth and the Purbecks, skiing when the opportunity arises and making the most of the local beaches in the summer.

Ella completed her Law LLB Hons degree at the University of Surrey graduating in 2013 and subsequently the LPC at the University of Law. Ella joined us to commence her training contract in 2014 and qualified into our corporate and commercial team in March 2016, now acting on a wide variety of corporate, commercial and employment matters ranging from local businesses to national companies.

Ella can assist with business and share transactions, shareholders’ agreements, drafting articles of association and other general company law matters. Ella also advises on employment law aspects predominantly in a corporate context. In particular, her work includes drafting and reviewing contracts of employment, providing assistance and advice on TUPE transfers, and other general employer advice.

Outside of work Ella enjoys going for long runs around Bournemouth and the Purbecks, skiing when the opportunity arises and making the most of the local beaches in the summer.

Kenneth is the elder statesman of our mediation team, with forty years’ experience as a family lawyer, and qualified as a mediator in 1996. Kenneth has been a key member of the Laceys mediation team since 2005, specialising in financial and children cases, with a particular interest and specialisation in high conflict cases.

Kenneth is also qualified to consult with children, a growing part of the mediation process. Always looking to expand the boundaries of mediation practice,  Kenneth brings a degree of gravitas, humour, understanding and empathy when he mediates with clients,  creating a positive environment in which clients work together to resolve their issues quickly and cost-effectively.

Out of office hours, Kenneth’s main passion is writing musical theatre. When he has time Kenneth also enjoys travel, especially cruising.

Shannon is a Solicitor in our Family Department and specialises in advising upon relationship breakdown, financial remedies and children cases.

Shannon joined Laceys in 2018 as a Trainee Solicitor after completing her undergraduate Law Degree at Bournemouth University and then studied her Legal Practice Course and obtained her Masters Degree in Professional Legal Practice at The University of Law, Guildford. Shannon has worked at a number of high street firms and a large regional firm prior to joining Laceys.

Shannon prides herself on her tenacity and strength of negotiation to resolve matters as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. Shannon seeks to resolve cases amicably as well as robustly, and can adapt her approach to suit you. Shannon aims to support you throughout to make the process of your instructions to her as stress free as possible.

In her spare time, Shannon makes the most of living on the South Coast by cycling along the beach and taking long walks in the New Forest. She also enjoys dining alfresco, spa days and enabling her wanderlust. Shannon is heavily involved in the local legal community as a member of the District Junior Lawyers Division and she is also a member of the Laceys Social Committee.

Charlotte is an associate in our Commercial team. Having gained experience working both in private practice and as an In-House Solicitor for a FTSE 100 Plc, an AIM listed national IT company and a global engineering company, Charlotte has a wealth of knowledge within IT, Supply of Goods and Services, Intellectual Property, Engineering, Telecoms and Privacy/Data Protection. Although a Commercial lawyer, she is also qualified as a Commercial Litigator and Non Practising Barrister, providing her with the unique advantage of knowing where contracts go wrong, and the ability to evaluate risk and advise accordingly.

Charlotte particularly enjoys working with businesses to help draw up, update and/or negotiate a wide variety of commercial contracts and agreements. Examples of the type of work and contracts which Charlotte advises upon are agency and distribution agreements, terms and conditions of business, website use, sale and supply of goods and services and Data Sharing Agreements. Charlotte also has experience of working with companies to help support and strengthen their compliance functions.

Away for work, Charlotte loves being outside whenever possible. Her favourite past times are tennis, running, walking, windsurfing and horse riding.

Robin studied law at the University of Southampton before achieving Distinction in a postgraduate law diploma at Bournemouth University in 2011 and being awarded the Dorset Magistrates’ Association Excellence in Advocacy Award.

Robin qualified as a solicitor with Laceys in 2011, and is now one of Laceys partners, specialising in employment law advising employers, HR Directors and managers on all aspects of complex employment law and day-to-day HR issues.

In addition, Robin completed a demanding course and examination process and qualified as a Solicitor-Advocate early on in his career. This entitles Robin to appear in all civil courts and enhances the service he can provide to clients.

Robin is able to bring his previous experience in management outside of the law and also, understands the real demands and issues involved in HR. Robin takes responsibility for the HR of Laceys which includes circa. 100 employees and so has experienced what it is really like to deal with frontline HR issues and his clients genuinely benefit from that. It enables Robin to give practical and clear advice based on real experience, as well as utilising his legal knowledge and experience.

Robin has advised and represented a national hotel and restaurant group concerning multiple redundancies and general ongoing employment law/HR support and also recently advised and represented a financial services organisation in a High Court contractual dispute.

Robin has previously advised a local charity regarding potential pay claims and represented a senior charity executive.

As part of his service Robin likes to provide training to his clients and their HR teams.

Away from work Robin enjoys cycling, cooking and eating. Lately, Robin has (again) started sketching and is trying to convince himself that he has a talent!

To find out more about Robin becoming Partner and why he chose to specialise in Employment law click here;

Kate is head of our Private Client Team and has 25 years’ experience in private client work, specialising in wills, tax planning and estate administration. Kate has worked in this area since she qualified and has assisted thousands of families and individuals.

Kate qualified as a solicitor in 1995 after obtaining a 2.1 in Law from the University of Kent. She completed her training contract with Laceys and became a partner in 2002.

Kate is a full member of the Society of Estate and Trust Practitioners (STEP) and sat on the STEP committee for 6 years. She has also taught on the Legal Executives course at Bournemouth & Poole College.

Kate enjoys the personal side of the work and the satisfaction of assisting the bereaved and families with complex affairs, whether it be complex financial aspects or those where a diplomatic hand is required. She prides herself on being able to explain the legal position in plain English.

Out of the office she enjoys keeping fit. She enjoys going to the gym and getting out into the Dorset countryside on her road bike. Cooking, particularly baking, is also a passion.

Mark qualified as a solicitor in 1989 and since then has specialised in property and landlord and tenant disputes, possession and debt recovery in relation to both commercial and residential property. He has extensive experience in relation to issues involving blocks of flats including representation in the Property Chamber and the courts. He has also dealt with many commercial disputes, professional negligence and insolvency claims.

He has frequently given talks on the law as it affects managing agents through the Association of Residential Managing Agents and other groups.

He has been recommended for many years by the Legal 500 Guide to the Legal profession which has said that Mark ‘is very highly rated by clients’, ‘explains complex issues in understandable terms’ and ‘is excellent in really difficult situations’. He is a committee member of the Bournemouth Law Society and a governor of Dumpton School.

Mark is married with 2 teenage children and at weekends can often be found on his boat which he sails competitively.

Charlotte is an associate in our Commercial team. Having gained experience working both in private practice and as an In-House Solicitor for a FTSE 100 Plc, an AIM listed national IT company and a global engineering company, Charlotte has a wealth of knowledge within IT, Supply of Goods and Services, Intellectual Property, Engineering, Telecoms and Privacy/Data Protection. Although a Commercial lawyer, she is also qualified as a Commercial Litigator and Non Practising Barrister, providing her with the unique advantage of knowing where contracts go wrong, and the ability to evaluate risk and advise accordingly.

Charlotte particularly enjoys working with businesses to help draw up, update and/or negotiate a wide variety of commercial contracts and agreements. Examples of the type of work and contracts which Charlotte advises upon are agency and distribution agreements, terms and conditions of business, website use, sale and supply of goods and services and Data Sharing Agreements. Charlotte also has experience of working with companies to help support and strengthen their compliance functions.

Away for work, Charlotte loves being outside whenever possible. Her favourite past times are tennis, running, walking, windsurfing and horse riding.

Robin studied law at the University of Southampton before achieving Distinction in a postgraduate law diploma at Bournemouth University in 2011 and being awarded the Dorset Magistrates’ Association Excellence in Advocacy Award.

Robin qualified as a solicitor with Laceys in 2011, and is now one of Laceys partners, specialising in employment law advising employers, HR Directors and managers on all aspects of complex employment law and day-to-day HR issues.

In addition, Robin completed a demanding course and examination process and qualified as a Solicitor-Advocate early on in his career. This entitles Robin to appear in all civil courts and enhances the service he can provide to clients.

Robin is able to bring his previous experience in management outside of the law and also, understands the real demands and issues involved in HR. Robin takes responsibility for the HR of Laceys which includes circa. 100 employees and so has experienced what it is really like to deal with frontline HR issues and his clients genuinely benefit from that. It enables Robin to give practical and clear advice based on real experience, as well as utilising his legal knowledge and experience.

Robin has advised and represented a national hotel and restaurant group concerning multiple redundancies and general ongoing employment law/HR support and also recently advised and represented a financial services organisation in a High Court contractual dispute.

Robin has previously advised a local charity regarding potential pay claims and represented a senior charity executive.

As part of his service Robin likes to provide training to his clients and their HR teams.

Away from work Robin enjoys cycling, cooking and eating. Lately, Robin has (again) started sketching and is trying to convince himself that he has a talent!

To find out more about Robin becoming Partner and why he chose to specialise in Employment law click here;

Robin studied law at the University of Southampton before achieving Distinction in a postgraduate law diploma at Bournemouth University in 2011 and being awarded the Dorset Magistrates’ Association Excellence in Advocacy Award.

Robin qualified as a solicitor with Laceys in 2011, and is now one of Laceys partners, specialising in employment law advising employers, HR Directors and managers on all aspects of complex employment law and day-to-day HR issues.

In addition, Robin completed a demanding course and examination process and qualified as a Solicitor-Advocate early on in his career. This entitles Robin to appear in all civil courts and enhances the service he can provide to clients.

Robin is able to bring his previous experience in management outside of the law and also, understands the real demands and issues involved in HR. Robin takes responsibility for the HR of Laceys which includes circa. 100 employees and so has experienced what it is really like to deal with frontline HR issues and his clients genuinely benefit from that. It enables Robin to give practical and clear advice based on real experience, as well as utilising his legal knowledge and experience.

Robin has advised and represented a national hotel and restaurant group concerning multiple redundancies and general ongoing employment law/HR support and also recently advised and represented a financial services organisation in a High Court contractual dispute.

Robin has previously advised a local charity regarding potential pay claims and represented a senior charity executive.

As part of his service Robin likes to provide training to his clients and their HR teams.

Away from work Robin enjoys cycling, cooking and eating. Lately, Robin has (again) started sketching and is trying to convince himself that he has a talent!

To find out more about Robin becoming Partner and why he chose to specialise in Employment law click here;