Growing solicitors firm Blanchards Bailey has recruited two new experts to meet increasing demand in its Estate Planning and Administration department.
Ian Campbell and Catherine Hardy bring a wealth of experience to the firm, which has offices across Dorset, as it continues to attract highly experienced staff. The firm has seen a 54 per cent increase in turnover in this area of work over in the last three years.
Ian joins as a Senior Associate in the Wills and Estate Planning to head up the department in Dorchester, while Catherine’s appointment sees her become Private Client Assistant for Probate and Estate Administration at the Blandford office.
Blanchards Bailey is recognised by The Legal 500 - the leading guide to law firms in the UK – in both the Personal Tax, Trusts and Probate and Agriculture and Estates sections of the Private Client rankings. On a personal level, Principal and overall Head of Department Jerome Dodge has been acknowledged for his outstanding efforts under the Personal Tax, Trusts and Probate category.
Ian’s appointment marks his return to Blanchards Bailey in a senior capacity after he began his legal career with the Dorset organisation in 2005. His most recent role before rejoining Blanchards Bailey was as an Associate in a leading Poole and Bournemouth firm. His extensive experience has resulted in him being a fully qualified member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) since 2013, before also receiving the Advanced Certificate in Will preparation.
He is also a full member of Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE) – joining colleague Cordelia English as the only other solicitor in Dorchester and Weymouth to have the full accreditation, which reflects Blanchards Bailey’s speciality in dealing with issues affecting elderly people.
Speaking of his new role - where his vast skillset sees him specialise in Wills and Estate Planning, Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection matters, Administration of Estates and advising on Care Fee Planning - Ian said: “After starting out at Blanchards Bailey 12 years ago I was delighted when the opportunity arose to rejoin. The firm has been growing solidly and it’s exciting to be part of the team again.
“Having trained with the firm I am familiar with its professional and supportive culture. I am now looking forward to progressing my career further alongside other experts and use my varied experiences to develop our private client department further.”
Catherine worked within a large private client department in a prominent local firm for 10 years and has been a paralegal for the last four years.
She said: “I am delighted to join such a prestigious law firm as Blanchards Bailey, which is both friendly and approachable, whilst being highly professional in delivering its services to clients. I think it strikes the balance just right and has a great reputation.
“I look forward to providing support to a growing department and have a passion for helping our clients who are dealing with very difficult situations, such as the loss of a loved one.”
Blanchards Bailey Principal, Jerome Dodge, added: “We are very proud to welcome two new strong additions to our team. They will add further expertise to our Wills, Probate and Estates department.
“Ian’s addition means we now have the only two lawyers in Weymouth and Dorchester to have the full accreditation for the Solicitors for the Elderly, which shows we are particularly qualified to support clients at every stage of life’s journey.”
For more information visit www.blanchardsbailey.co.uk
Pictured: Jerome Dodge, Ian Campbell and Catherine Hardy
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