Published: 12th January 2021
Shakespeare Martineau is establishing a new presence in Lincolnshire as part of the firm's growth strategy, with two newly appointed partners providing a face for the brand locally.
Jonathan Stork joins on 1 February from Wilkin Chapman and has more than 13 years' experience in litigation and dispute resolution, with particular expertise in contested trust and probate work, disputes within the agricultural sector and commercial litigation.
Corporate and commercial lawyer Michael Squirrell has already joined the firm and brings with him extensive knowledge of the Lincoln market and 12 years' experience. Michael has particular passions for digital and tech, intellectual property and trade marks and advising charities.
Michael said: "What Shakespeare Martineau offers clients is the best of both worlds: establishing a Lincoln presence combines local knowledge with the backing of more than 850 experts nationally. This scale and full-service approach means we can help take local businesses to the next level and are almost unlimited in the legal support we can offer; as well as supporting people through key life milestones.
"I was initially attracted to Shakespeare Martineau's reputation for excellence. And after meeting people across the teams, it was clear to me that it is a firm that really focusses on people and clients, living and breathing its values - rather than these being an aspirational list or a 'tick box' exercise.
"I've spent my working life being inspired by entrepreneurs and innovators and feel like I can put that knowledge into practice with the Lincoln branch opening, and drive growth for Shakespeare Martineau in Lincoln."
With existing offices in Nottingham, Leicester, Sheffield, Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon, Solihull, London, Milton Keynes and Glasgow - servicing both local and national clients - the firm is planning a brick and mortar presence in the area to serve its Lincolnshire clients.
The appointments follow the announcement of growth ambitions and plan to double in size by 2023. The appointments are just the start for the firm as it is committed to growing the team in Lincoln and strengthening its presence in the area. With a view to providing a holistic service to Lincoln-based clients, Shakespeare Martineau will also be welcoming a new Lincoln-based partner in the employment team soon.
Duncan James, East Midlands' regional head, said: "We work with several clients in Lincoln already, including those in the education, tech, energy and agriculture sectors - so it's a no brainer to have an on-the-ground presence.
"Lincolnshire holds a lot of potential, and our clients will benefit from a local presence as well as the backing of our wider teams in energy, education, agriculture, fast-growing businesses and wealth management, to name just a few.
"We're really excited to have Jonathan and Michael joining us, and we look forward to growing the Lincoln team further."