Tell us about yourself
I joined John Hodge Solicitors in 2001 as a member of our Private Client Team initially working in our Wedmore office. I was delighted to join the Partnership in 2006, initially managing our Private Client Team and later with additional supervisory responsibilities for the Family Team. Since 2011 I have been one of two Managing Partners of the Practice.
What is your specialist area of law?
My specialist area of work was Private Client work including wills, powers of Attorney, estate administration, trust and Court of Protection work. I now exclusively deal with practice management in my role as Staff Partner and the Firm’s Compliance Officer for Legal Practice but I continue to take a particular interest in Private Client and Family Departments.
What do you offer clients of John Hodge Solicitors?
As one of two Managing Partners I continue to be available to clients of the Firm in a supervisory capacity and as an initial point of contact that many of our long-established clients will be familiar with. I support our staff in ensuring that the services we offer our clients are easily accessible and meet the needs of the communities in which we practice.
What do you think makes a good lawyer?
A regulated specialist expert in their area of the law in which they practice, who can identify the needs of their clients and advise them in a friendly and approachable manner. Excellent listening and communication skills are an essential requirement.
What do you most enjoy about your role?
It is important to me that our clients can get expert advice from a familiar regulated professional at an appropriate cost and that they will be able to rely on the Firm to be accessible to them and their families in the future. Ensuring that we deliver this in all our offices and mentoring of staff and partners of the future to ensure this continues to be our priority is very worthwhile and satisfying.
A message for clients
If you don’t understand the advice of your lawyer after you have asked them to explain it twice you probably need to find a new adviser.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
Getting high quality legal advice should be seen as a valuable investment in a better future.
