Law firm Punch Robson hails progress with “further growth on cards”

A Tees Valley law firm says it is preparing for further expansion after a period of growth was complemented by a senior appointment and a string of achievements.

Punch Robson says “there is further growth on the cards for 2019” as it seeks to build on an “incredible” 12 months.

Officials at the business, headquartered in Ingleby Barwick, near Stockton, say they are looking to expand the firm’s team and fill roles in its commercial, property and litigation departments.

To support its ambitions, the company has appointed Julie Sanderson as operations manager.

With 14 years’ experience specialising in law firm management support, Julie is responsible for the effective running of the business, supporting its partners with day-to-day operations, such as office and facilities management, and updating and implementing procedures.

Elaine McLaine-Wood, Punch Robson’s managing partner and head of corporate and commercial property, said: “It’s wonderful to see the team grow.

“The last 12 months have been incredible but we’re not stopping, as there is further growth on the cards for 2019.”

Elaine added the firm’s progress has been complemented by individual achievements for a number of staff members.

Helen Snell, who joined the company as a trainee solicitor in 2018 with three years’ experience, has qualified as a solicitor, become a member of the Solicitors for the Elderly and is looking to further develop her skillset by studying for the STEP qualification.

Punch Robson’s mental health and mental capacity departments have also experienced success, with legal clerks Angela Strike and Louise Shaw appointed to The Law Society’s Mental Health Panel, which recognises members’ expertise in the area of law and allows for representation of vulnerable patients before the Mental Health Tribunal.

They join the firm’s partner and head of the department Graeme Downs, associate solicitor Julie Brown and solicitor Rachael Hart on the panel.

Graeme said: “Angela and Louise’s appointment recognises their hard work, experience and allows us to further strengthen our already well-established department.

“We are pleased to have been able to significantly expand the number of cases we deal with involving the Court of Protection and Mental Capacity.

“Our team is experienced in dealing with matters in a sensitive manner, ensuring we work hard to achieve the best possible outcome.”