A Merseyside lawyer who joined her firm as a secretary has been promoted to senior associate and team leader in its wills, trusts and probate department.
Jannina Barker (pictured, centre) began in an admin role at Jackson Lees Group’s forerunner Lees Solicitors in 2009 , soon deciding to train as a paralegal. After a spell at Bell Lamb & Joynson Solicitors, she returned in 2021 and became a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEX).
Based in Hoylake, on the Wirral peninsula, she advises clients on wills, lasting powers of attorney, probate and inheritance tax planning matters.
Barker’s promotion comes alongside the arrival of two new solicitors, Laura Beattie (pictured left) and Catherine McCrindle (pictured right). Beattie has joined from Kennan Doyle Solicitors and is based in the Liverpool office. Catherine has moved from McHale & Co Solicitors and is based in Hoylake.
John-Paul Dennis, divisional director of the private client division which includes the wills, trusts and probate department, said:
“Jannina has gone from strength to strength, both as a fantastic lawyer and team leader.
“Her promotion is brilliant recognition for her amazing hard work. It’s also a great example of people growing their careers with us, showing that, whatever their route into the law, the way we can make a positive difference for our clients is all the same.”
Dennis also welcomed the two new starters to the company, saying: “Laura and Catherine join us at an exciting time, as we are seeing a significant increase in demand for private client advice.
“In line with this growth in demand we are expanding our team, and the excellent experience which Laura and Catherine bring will further enhance our offering.”
Barker said:
“I’m passionate about my work and supporting my clients in what can often be difficult and sensitive matters.
“I look forward to continuing to support our clients and the department as we grow and develop the team and encourage a new generation of lawyers.”
Jackson Lees Group is a full-service practice which comprises Jackson Lees, Broudie Jackson Canter and Farrington Law. The group employs 240 people across offices in Liverpool, Wirral and Southport.
It is part of MAPD Group, which was founded by Brian Cullen and Joanna Kingston-Davies in 2020 to power the growth of local law firms nationally through acquisition. The initials stand for Making a Positive Difference.
