Leading South Coast law firm Lester Aldridge is pleased to congratulate Elliot Leadbeater, Scott Smid, Finola Whelan and Chris Bond, who have qualified as solicitors.
The four newly qualified solicitors completed their two-year training contract with the firm, spending four six-month placements in various departments across the firm.
Elliot joined Lester Aldridge in 2021 and is qualifying as a solicitor into the Real Estate team based in Southampton. He said: “After a varied and enjoyable training contract, I am delighted to be qualifying into the Real Estate Development team at LA. I am looking forward to building upon my existing knowledge and continuing to provide the best possible service to our clients.”
Finola joined the firm as a paralegal in 2018. She said: “I am delighted to have crossed the finish line of my training contract! It’s been a pleasure working across the firm in a wide range of practice areas and getting to know each of the teams. I am excited to hit the ground running as I qualify into the Tax, Trusts, Wills and Probate team.”
Scott started his training contract with LA in 2021 after working at a ‘big four’ accountancy firm. He commented: “I thoroughly enjoyed the variety of my seats and the work I was able to undertake during my training contract at Lester Aldridge. I am excited to start the next chapter of my legal career with the Dispute Resolution team.”
Chris has worked in the legal sector since 2016. He said: “I think I’ve really benefitted from the collaborative working environment at LA, which has allowed me to work closely with partners and gain experience in complex matters throughout each of my seats. I’m looking forward to continuing my work in the Residential Property team and taking on the additional responsibilities of a fully-fledged fee earner.”
Managing Partner Matthew Barrow, who also completed his training contract at LA, commented: “I am delighted to congratulate our four newest solicitors on their qualification. They have all worked exceptionally hard to get to this point, and I look forward to seeing how their careers develop at our firm.”