Law firm Gardner Leader has welcomed 21 new team members across its seven offices since the start of 2025, marking an almost 10 per cent increase in headcount.
The firm, which has more than tripled in size over the past ten years, now employs 191 staff in Newbury, Maidenhead, Thatcham, Oxford, Swindon, Windsor and London.
Among its latest appointments is senior associate Luchia Hirst, who has joined Gardner Leader’s wills, probate and estate planning team in Swindon from Melksham’s Goughs Solicitors.
She specialises in administering simple and complex estates, the preparation of lasting powers of attorney, and the creation of wills.
“Gardner Leader has a strong reputation for handling sensitive matters with care, compassion and clarity,” said Hirst.
“Supporting both individuals and families and helping them reach constructive solutions is incredibly important to me. I’m proud to be part of a team that truly reflects those values.”
Also new to the Wills, Probate and Estate planning team is Senior Associate Charlotte Fox, who arrived at the firm’s Thatcham office after a decade at Barrett and Co Solicitors.
Fox specialises in administering complex, high net worth estates both in the UK and internationally, advising executors on inheritance tax implications, preparing wills which optimise tax-free allowances, and guiding clients on their duties under a power of attorney.
“I was drawn to Gardner Leader’s strong regional presence and its people-first culture,” she said.
“There’s a real emphasis on both client care and team collaboration. I’m looking forward to contributing to a firm that values both tradition and innovation in equal measure.”
Meanwhile, Partner Lynsey Smith, associates Annabelle Randell and Amanda Collins and solicitor Kezia Brown have all joined the firm’s dispute resolution team – from IBB Law, Moore Barlow and Allan Janes respectively.
Derek Rodgers, Managing Partner of Gardner Leader, added: “Over the last five years we have made incredible progress in cementing our position as one of the leading law firms across the South of England.
“A part of this strategy has been to attract and retain some of the UK’s leading legal experts, as well as providing plenty of opportunity for aspiring talent.
“Our commitment to our clients includes delivering extraordinary service, advice and peace of mind; this is unwavering and as important as ever to us.
“It’s fantastic to welcome Lynsey, Luchia, Charlotte, Amanda, Annabelle, Kezia and the rest of this years’ new starters to the Gardner Leader team.
“We’re looking forward to seeing how their expertise will help shape the work we deliver in the coming months and years.”
