Rising star latest addition to Penningtons Manches’ growing family law practice in Guildford

Posted: 18/01/2017

Penningtons Manches’ Guildford office has appointed Rachel Donald – recognised as a “brilliant rising star” by legal directory Chambers UK – as an associate director to further boost its growing family law practice.

The appointment forms part of the team’s strategic plan to become the pre-eminent provider of family law services in Surrey and the surrounding area. The team has grown rapidly since partner Veronica Gilmour joined the firm in 2014 to launch the practice. They advise on all aspects of family law including private children disputes, pensions and marital agreements and have particular expertise in high value, complex financial cases in both the UK and internationally.

Veronica commented: “In the space of just over two years we’ve expanded considerably, taking on some great people to meet client demand. Rachel will be an excellent addition to the team – she is a highly talented lawyer whose specialist knowledge and experience in helping clients with complex issues around finance and children will be a great asset as we continue to grow.”

Rachel advises clients contemplating separation and divorce and has particular expertise in drafting marital and cohabitation agreements. Her clients include UK-based and international professionals, entrepreneurs, business owners and their spouses. She also helps parents to resolve arrangements for children and related issues, including applications for permission to move out of the country.

In addition to being recognised as a rising star, Chambers UK ranks Rachel as a leading individual in her field and as an “associate to watch” in 2017. Rachel is an active member of Resolution, the leading national association of family lawyers and focuses on resolving her cases in an amicable and cost effective way. She also contributes regularly to the Family Law Journal and provides expert comment and analysis to the press on many family law issues.

Rachel’s appointment follows two other recent hires, Laura Hughes and Lee Henderson, who joined the firm in October 2016. The team now stands at six fee earners, a significant increase from just one when Veronica Gilmour started up the department in November 2014.

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