Magdalena Neale

Tell us about yourself

I am originally from Poland. I came to the UK as a graduate student at the Faculty of Law, University of Wroclaw in 2006.

I completed my degree in law in Poland before going on to complete the Graduate Diploma in Law, Legal Practice Course and Professional Skills Course at the University of the West of England in Bristol. I completed my training as a solicitor at John Hodge Solicitors.

What is your specialist area of law?

Property law is my area of specialism. I deal with Commercial Real Estate transactions and matters which include advising Clients on the purchase, sale and leasing of commercial properties such as retail spaces, industrial units etc. I also deal with Landlord and Tenant matters in addition to agricultural land transactions.

What do you think makes a good lawyer?

Selling and buying a property may be a stressful time for a Client and I believe that it is important to try and take as much of that stress away as possible. Being approachable and available is an easy way to do that. Leasing commercial property can be complex. It is important that commercial Tenants and Landlords fully understand the extent of the obligations they will be taking on.  

Conveyancers cannot simply wait for things to happen. They must adopt a proactive approach. They must ensure that transactions proceed as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Being a successful lawyer is as much as about being a good communicator as it is about understanding the law and using it to benefit the Client.

What can you offer Clients of John Hodge Solicitors?

I am a very easy-going person.

I am able to listen actively, understand Clients’ needs and communicate with them in a way they appreciate.

I understand our Clients’ goals and deliver services that will help achieve those goals. I clearly describe my services and how they will be delivered. I am able to provide Clients with clear and comprehensive information in English or Polish.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I love the sheer variety of work. I might be discussing business goals with a Client one minute and drafting a complex legal document the next. I enjoy the personal contact but also the Law can be very complex, so I find it intellectually challenging.

A message for Clients:

I feel passionate about acting in the best interest of those I represent. Therefore, I always ensure that our Clients receive the very best possible standards of service.