CHESTER law firm Walker Smith Way solicitors has announced the promotion of four members of staff.
As part of the promotions, two solicitors have become partners: Rhian Coppack, who works in the residential property department, and commercial litigation specialist Anna Duffy, who joined the practice as an associate just 18 months ago
Rhian, 34, has specialised in residential property since qualifying in 1997. She deals with all aspects of residential property transactions.
She joined Walker Smith Way in 1997 after training with a firm in Liverpool. She attended Aberystwyth University and then Christleton college of Law, Chester.
Anna, 40, brought a number of big name clients with her when she joined Walker Smith Way, having previously worked for firms in Manchester and Liverpool. She has worked on challenging litigation cases, some of which involved decisions at the Court of Appeal. Her expertise in addition to contractual disputes involves asset finance work.
Rhian, a fluent Welsh speaker, said: “Walker Smith Way is one of the most reputable firms in the region with very high standards. I am delighted to be able to further my career with them in this way.”
Anna said: “I’m very pleased to have been offered the position of partner and can’t wait to take up my new responsibilities.”
Also promoted are solicitors Thomas Pearson and Tom Sutcliffe, who have been made associates.
Thomas, 29, of Flint, specialises in commercial freehold property law, secured lending and land transactions. He particularly enjoys working with large estates and complex land registrations.
“It’s like piecing together a jigsaw. It can be fascinating,” he said.
Thomas joined Walker Smith Way as a trainee in 2003 after attending Keele University and Christleton law college.
Commercial law specialist Tom Sutcliffe was at Christleton College at the same time as Thomas. Tom, of Upton, also joined Walker Smith Way as a trainee. His area of expertise includes intellectual property, business sales and acquisitions.
Also newly promoted at Walker Smith Way are two members of the personal injury department in the firm’s Wrexham office. Associate Martyn Elliott, of Hoole, has been made partner, and solicitor Darren Hughes, of Marford, becomes an Associate.
Established 150 years ago, Walker Smith Way has offices in Chester and Wrexham.