Cheltenham-based law firm, Frank Smith & Co Solicitors, has expanded its wills, trusts and probate department with two new hires, following substantial growth over the last year.
The firm, which has grown by 35% in the last 12 months, has appointed highly experienced solicitor, Sue Senkbeil, and legal executive, Michele Bysouth who have a collective experience of more than 35 years in private client law.
With more than 20 years of experience, Sue holds a law degree from Staffordshire University and has since been assisting clients on a range of matters, from preparing wills and trusts, administering estates and applying for Court of Protection and Lasting Powers of Attorney.
About her appointment, Sue commented: “I am really looking forward to being part of the team at Frank Smith & Co Solicitors. The firm’s values of taking a friendly yet professional and pragmatic approach align directly with my own, so I have no doubt that it will be a seamless transition during which I can offer clients clear and helpful advice in a sensitive and understanding manner.
“I have been in law for a long time, so have had plenty of time to hone my skills and develop an expert knowledge on a range of areas, in particular wills, trusts and probate. I am excited to put that knowledge to good use but also to learn from and work with an impressive team.”
Sue will be joined by Michele Bysouth, who has over 15 years of experience in law and eight years working specifically in wills, trusts and probate.
Michele added: “Having supported clients with wills, trusts and probate matters for now nearly a decade, I’m especially looking forward to putting that experience and knowledge to use for a new client base. Frank Smith & Co Solicitors has long been a highly reputable firm in the Southwest and to be able to work with such an expert team is an exciting step in my career.
“The best part of my role is the interaction with people; getting to know them and their lives, it really is an honour. When a client is seeking legal advice, to me it is more than just a case of offering that advice and moving on, it is about being a support to bereaved families at a difficult time and helping people to feel informed and reassured for peace of mind. The team at Frank Smith & Co really echos that sentiment, which is part of the reason why I am so looking forward to getting started.”
Commenting on these latest appointments, the firm’s founder, Frank Smith, added: “We’re proud to be a traditional law firm with a modern approach, offering a high quality, high-end service through and through, and the appointment of experts like Michele and Sue reflects that.
“Sue pairs a keen eye for detail with a kind and caring attitude to handling matters calmly, friendly and professionally, both for new and existing clients alike. Michele has developed a reputation for her hard work and professionalism, and welcoming, empathetic nature, qualities she uses to work closely with clients to resolve legal matters efficiently and with care. We’re thrilled to welcome them both to the team and are confident that they will be assets to an already well developed, specialist team of legal experts.”
