TWO Chester solicitors have become partners of their regional firm.
Richard Thornton Thomas and Rachel Vasmer have both been promoted at Walker Smith Way.
Mr Thornton Thomas, 32, joined the firm as a trainee in 1997 and has been involved in a number of high profile cases including successfully defending a trading standards prosecution involving computer industry giant Microsoft Software.
He also represented a top British supergrass in a case that led to a definition of new case law.
He said: “It is a great working environment here, sociable and friendly, but also extremely professional, and the whole team is dedicated to doing the best for the clients.
“I have been very lucky to train with, and now become a partner with, such a leading firm.�
Also promoted from associate to partner is Rachel Vasmer, an experienced clinical negligence lawyer.
In 2000 she secured nearly £5m for a client who had been brain damaged at birth. At the time it was the second-highest compensation figure ever awarded.
She said: “This area of the law is very important to me because I can sympathise with the situation.
“Although money often cannot change the injury, it can make a difference. That’s what I really enjoy, helping people to get the house or the care package they need.�
Rachel is a member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers and the Action Against Medical Accidents Panel.
Rachel Vasmer and Richard Thornton Thomas, who have been promoted to partners at law firm Walker Smith Way