WOODFINES - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Partnership Administrator
- Partnership Secretary
Prior to working at Woodfines, Amanda spent most of her working life commuting into London, working for an international Law firm, and for the last 10 years has been PA to Managing Partners.
Amanda is now a Partnership Administrator where she assists all the Equity Partner with non-client related work to help run a more efficient and motivated team. She attends board meetings to take minutes and assists the Managing Partner as required.
Job Titles:
- Marketing Executive
- Marketing Executive / Marketing & Business Development
Amie began her career with Woodfines in 2017 as an office Junior, moving into a receptionist role at the Cambridge office, where she simultaneously completed her HND Business Management studies. In 2021, Amie took a three month sabbatical working for a charity in Kenya. On her return, she joined a graduate scheme at the firm, working in different areas of the business whilst gaining her degree in Business Management.
In April 2023, she officially joined the Marketing and Business Development team and was promoted to Marketing Executive in 2025.
Amie graduated from the University of East Anglia with a 1st in Psychology. she then decided to pursue a career in HR in 2018, starting off at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Since then, she has worked in private sector industries including IT and Construction, until recently joining Woodfines in July 2023. Amie is CIPD Level 5 qualified and she is currently working towards her Level 7.
Amongst her responsibilities Amie oversees Woodfines' recruitment process.
Job Titles:
- Chartered Legal Executive ( FCILEX )
Amira joined Woodfines in February 2022 as part of the expanding Private Client department in the Bedford office. She has been working in the Private Client sector since 2016 before joining the firm and has worked in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
Amira graduated from the University of Leicester with 2:1 in LLB Law and a distinction in LLM Master of Law from the University of Hertfordshire.
Job Titles:
- Trainee Conveyencer
- Trainee Conveyencer / Residential
Amy has worked within Conveyancing since 2016 and joined the Residential Conveyancing team at Woodfines in April 2018 as a secretary. Amy is now a Trainee Conveyancer and looks forward to fulfilling her ambition of becoming a qualified Conveyancer.
Job Titles:
- Equity Partner & Head of Employment
- Equity Partner & Head of Employment / Employment Law
Andrew qualified as a solicitor in September 2000 and joined Woodfines a year later. He became a partner in 2004.
Andrew has a strong experience of all aspects of employment law, including the delivery of employment law training to Company Clients. He has higher rights of audience and is an experienced advocate in many different Courts and Tribunals.
He is a member of the Employment Lawyers Association and the Solicitors Association of Higher Courts Advocates. He has previously sat part time as a coroner.
Outside of work, Andrew enjoys golf and long distance running. He has also practiced Tae Kwon-Do since 1986.
Job Titles:
- Receptionist
- Administrative Assistant / Operations
- Receptionist / Operations
Angie is a Receptionist in the Bedford office. She Joined Woodfines in June 2013. Angie Provides valuable support to the firm.
Ayesha joined Woodfines in November 2023 as a Administrative Assistant in the Operations department. She graduated from the University of Hertfordshire and is currently studying for her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Law and hopes to quality as a Solicitor whilst working at Woodfines
Ann-Marie is a graduate of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives. As a member of the Private Client team, she works with clients and fellow team members on Lasting Powers of Attorney and making applications to the Court of Protection, appointing a Deputy to act on behalf of the vulnerable.
Prior to joining the firm in 2015, Ann-Marie has over 30 years' experience within the legal profession.
Anushri joined Woodfines in June 2022 as a Paralegal in the Family department. She graduated from Nottingham Trent University with a combined honours degree in Law with Criminology and is currently studying for her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Law.
Anushri has a particular interest in Public Family law which she hopes to develop in practice when she qualifies. Outside of work and studies, she likes to keep active, and she really enjoys going to the gym.
Ayesha completed her law degree with the University of Bedfordshire and then went on to do her LPC with the University of Law.
Prior to joining Woodfines, Ayesha worked in the Asset Based Lending department at Shoosmiths LLP and also has experience of working within an Immigration team at a firm in Leicester.
Ayesha is a keen fundraiser and likes to get involved with her community as much as possible in her spare time.
Bradley joined Woodfines in February of 2024 as a Team Assistant in the Private Client department. Bradley has worked closely with the departments' Solicitors and Private Client Executives to cement his existing knowledge, whilst also furthering himself by dealing with an array of client queries to a high standard.
Bradley aims to follow in the footsteps of his colleagues and gain qualifications whilst at Woodfines, ensuring he can assist as many clients as possible for years to come!
In his spare time, Bradley takes advantage of the countryside, the trails and playing fields it provides. Bradley regularly cycles and plays football, where he holds the ‘Clubman' accolade for his local team.
Job Titles:
- Receptionist
- Administrative Assistant / Operations
- Receptionist / Operations
Carol joined Woodfines in early February 2020 six weeks before the lock down. Before joining Woodfines she had previous admin experience in life insurance, IT, recruitment & Dentistry companies.
Ayesha joined Woodfines in November 2023 as a Administrative Assistant in the Operations department. She graduated from the University of Hertfordshire and is currently studying for her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Law and hopes to quality as a Solicitor whilst working at Woodfines
Caroline Nightingale Paralegal Agriculture Commercial PropertyConnect with me on LinkedIn 01234 987952 jcowles@woodfines.co.uk
Charlotte Ali - Chief Compliance Officer
Job Titles:
- Head of Compliance
- Head of Compliance / Compliance
Charlotte joined Woodfines following numerous years working in professional standards at a professional body/anti-money laundering (AML) supervisory body. Prior to this she worked for a London law firm in compliance having previously worked mainly in litigation after qualification, including as Head of Which? Legal Services.
Job Titles:
- Paralegal
- Partner & Head of Agriculture
Charlotte joined Woodfines in January 2015 and is a Partner at the Bedford office, having previously been a Partner at a London firm for 15 years.
She has over 25 years' experience as a Commercial Property solicitor, acting for individuals, corporate clients and lenders and since joining Woodfines she has dealt with all types of property transactions for our farming clients.
She became a Fellow of the Agricultural Law Association in March 2017 and is head of our Agricultural and Rural department.
She liaises frequently with other departments within Woodfines, as the need arises for clients, and in particular our Private Client and Corporate departments in connection with farming partnerships and succession issues as well as dealing with all non-contentious matters relating to property of all descriptions, whether in connection with diversification, the grant of leases, managing clients' property portfolios, dealing with development and option agreements and/or with land sales and purchases or in connection with all aspects of agricultural law.
She prides herself on bringing a practical approach to documentation and to seeing "the over view" where possible, on the basis of her experience.
Charlotte Benjamin Paralegal Agriculture Commercial PropertyConnect with me on LinkedIn 01234 987952 jcowles@woodfines.co.uk
Christopher joined the Corporate & Commercial department in November 2022. Christopher read law at the University of Buckingham before completing his Legal Practice Course and Master of Laws at BPP University.
Claire joined Woodfines' Corporate and Commercial team in February 2020 and spends her time across all three offices.
Claire brings experience ranging from City private practice to in-house legal within industry, and is skilled in mergers & acquisitions, commercial contracts, corporate finance, corporate governance and compliance. Claire applies sound legal experience and good judgement to manage and resolve matters, and is adept at communicating at all levels. Claire is a trusted adviser with a pragmatic approach and a ‘can do' attitude.
Claire is an experienced solicitor specialising in commercial and property litigation. Claire trained in England and Wales and practiced in property litigation before relocating to New Zealand at the end of 2006, where she practiced as a solicitor and barrister in general commercial litigation and insolvency. Since joining Woodfines in 2016, following her return to the UK, Claire has advised and assisted Woodfines' clients in resolving a variety of commercial and property (commercial and residential) related disputes.
Through her career, Claire has prided herself on the client focus and rapport she has become known for, coupling this focus with an eye for detail and business acumen. These core attributes have enabled her to deliver great outcomes to clients whilst enjoying the varied challenges cases frequently provide.
Job Titles:
- Team Assistant
- Team Assistant / Commercial Property
Davina joined Woodfines in November 2023 within the Commercial Property department. She graduated from Aston University and was a member of the Aston Law Society committee. Prior to joining Woodfines, Davina has worked within Shoosmiths LLP in the Asset Based Lending department and the Conveyancing department as well as the Commercial Property department in Freeths LLP.
Outside of work, Davina is passionate about travelling and immersing herself in diverse cultures and languages. She dedicates time to volunteering with charities that are close to her heart, enjoys baking and spending time with friends and family.
Job Titles:
- Legal Secretary
- Legal Secretary / Compliance
Debbie joined Woodfines in 2002, starting in the property department before moving onto being the Managing Partner's secretary. In 2022 Debbie reduced her hours and moved to the Compliance team to work alongside Charlotte Ali, who Heads that team. Debbie has vast experience in various areas of law, including Agriculture, Property and Commercial.
Job Titles:
- Partner & Team Leader for Child Care
Denise began her career at Woodfines in 2005 and has been qualified as a Chartered Legal Executive since 2009. She has experience in all areas of family law, however she latterly specialises in cases involving children and was admitted to the Children Law accreditation scheme in 2013.
Denise now heads up the firm's care department and has particular expertise in public law proceedings representing both parents and children. Her expertise has meant that she has dealt with many complex cases, including serious sexual abuse, fictitious illness and non-accidental injuries, as well as being involved in cases where domestic abuse neglect and substance misuse are key factors. Denise has represented a number of parents who have learning difficulties or mental health issues and are represented by the Official Solicitor, her sensitive and professional approach means that the clients feel in safe hands.
She undertakes the majority of her own advocacy from the start of the case until the end and has appeared in the High Court on many occasions dealing with various complex cases involving the death of a young child as well as representing parents in cases where their child is restricted of their liberty or they need to be detained in a secure environment.
Denise regularly represents children and her friendly and adaptable approach means that they too feel in safe hands with the process being carefully explained to them.
Denise is regularly involved in cases where children are reunited with their families and her dedicated approach means that she has many referrals from other local professionals as well as previous clients.
Job Titles:
- Receptionist
- Administrative Assistant / Operations
- Receptionist / Operations
Liz moved to Milton Keynes in 2021, and prior to joining Woodfines she worked within the Accountancy industry for the same Company for 10 years as a member of their Admin team. After 2 years of working from home she says that it is lovely to be back seeing people again on a daily basis.
Outside of work Liz likes to watch a lot of sport and have spent many years following the ups and downs of Sheffield Wednesday FC. She enjoys her weekly yoga classes and I am attempting to learn the difference between a dandelion and a dahlia in my new garden.
Ayesha joined Woodfines in November 2023 as a Administrative Assistant in the Operations department. She graduated from the University of Hertfordshire and is currently studying for her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Law and hopes to quality as a Solicitor whilst working at Woodfines
Job Titles:
- Partner
- Member of the Family Law Department
- Partner / Divorce & Family Law
Eloise is a Partner and member of the Family Law department at Woodfines. She specialises in:
• Relationship breakdowns, including divorce, separation and the dissolution of civil partnerships;
• financial settlements and implications of divorce or separation, financial remedy cases;
• children disputes acting for parents and grandparents;
• pre- and post-nuptial agreements,
• cohabitation disputes, living together agreements
Eloise studied at the University of Hertfordshire where she completed a combined studies Degree in Law & European Studies, followed by the Legal Practice Course. She has worked in the legal sector since 1996 and qualified as a solicitor in November 2000. Eloise joined Woodfines in September 2019, after 18 years at a firm based in Hertfordshire.
Eloise takes a pragmatic approach to resolving issues and believes in providing excellent care for all clients that she advises. She prides herself on providing a professional service, and has a friendly and approachable manner. She is naturally calm and has an understanding attitude, advising clients in a clear and concise way.
Her aim is to achieve the best possible outcome for clients, at the earliest opportunity.
Eloise Wilson is listed as a Leading Lawyer by Wiselaw.
Job Titles:
- Solicitor
- in 2024 As a Solicitor
Emma joined Woodfines in 2024 as a solicitor specialising in public law children matters. She studied Law at the University of Hertfordshire, graduating in 2015, and after a two-year break, went on to study her Legal Practice Course, graduating in 2020. Emma worked at a firm in Hertfordshire in the care team while studying, and completed her training there, qualifying in 2022.
Emma has experience representing parents, grandparents, as well as prospective adopters in a variety of cases including non-accidental injuries, domestic abuse, and substance misuse. Emma has experience representing vulnerable clients with learning difficulties and mental health issues. Emma's sensitive and dedicated approach means she regularly achieves good outcomes for her clients.
Job Titles:
- Chartered Legal Executive
- Chartered Legal Executive ( FCILEX )
- Chartered Legal Executive ( FCILEX ) Employment Law
- Fellow of CILEX
Gabrielle is a Chartered Legal Executive in the Employment Team, providing employment services to a variety of client's including SME's, HR professionals, charities and individuals. She has experience in dealing with a range of employment law issues such as grievance and disciplinary procedures, redundancy, drafting and negotiating Settlement Agreements, Employment Tribunal claims, unfair dismissal, restrictive covenants and drafting employment documentation which includes Staff Handbook policies, contracts of employment and consultancy agreements. Gabrielle works with the Corporate Team on employment matters relating to TUPE and due diligence as well as drafting and negotiating director's service agreements. She additionally works with the Commercial Property Team providing advice on TUPE matters.
Gabrielle is a regular speaker at Woodfines HR forums and delivers employment law training both at conferences and webinars.
Gabrielle joined Woodfines in 2019 and worked as a Paralegal in the Woodfines Employment and Corporate Commercial Team and later decided to focus solely on Employment Law in 2024. She studied law at the University of Hertfordshire graduating in 2016 before going onto study with CILEX qualifying as an Employment Chartered Legal Executive in December 2024.
Gabrielle is passionate about equal opportunities and education and volunteers as a career mentor with a local charity.
Gabrielle is a Fellow of CILEX and a member of the Employment Lawyer's Association.
Job Titles:
- Chartered Legal Executive ( FCILEX )
Job Titles:
- Solicitor
- Solicitor / Divorce & Family Law
Genevieve joined Woodfines in 2024 as a solicitor in the Family Department. She graduated from Lancaster University in 2016 with a combines honours degree in Law with Criminology. She worked as a paralegal doing crown court litigation at a criminal defence firm in Hertfordshire. Alongside working she studied at the University of Hertfordshire for her master's degree in Legal Practice she then graduated in 2019. In 2020, she joined a firm in Bedfordshire in the family team and completed her training there, qualifying in 2022.
Georgia has worked at Woodfines since 2018, and after completing her Training Contract with the firm has now qualified as a Solicitor into the Litigation arm of our Regulatory & Dispute Resolution team in November 2023.
Georgia looks forwards to working with the Litigation team as a newly qualified solicitor specialising in property and commercial litigation.
Gillian qualified as a solicitor in 2002 and has a wealth of experience across a broad range of corporate and commercial work in a wide range of sectors.
She studied law at Southampton University, where she gained a first class honours degree, and did her LPC at Guildford College of Law before moving to Hertfordshire, where she worked for many years before joining Woodfines in the Cambridge office in March 2023.
Gillian specialises in commercial contracts, including drafting bespoke standard contracts to suit individual businesses' needs. Her other particular interests include IP and IT contracts and corporate structuring and investments.
Hannah joined Woodfines in 2012 to begin her training contract with the firm, and qualified as a Solicitor in 2014. She became a Senior Associate in 2017 and was promoted to Partner in 2022.
Hannah completed her law degree at the University of Nottingham and her Legal Practice Course at Anglia Ruskin University in Cambridge.
She specialises in probate, will and inheritance disputes, and property trust dispute matters.
Hannah is a Registered Contentious Trust and Probate Specialist pursuant to her full membership of ACTAPS (Association of Contentious Trusts and Probate Solicitors) and also has a STEP (Society of Trust and Estates Practitioners) Certificate in Trusts and Estates which provides useful background to her contentious probate practice.
Harsimran joined Woodfines in July 2022 as a Team Assistant in the Residential Conveyancing department. With 9 years of experience in the conveyancing industry, she began her career with an apprenticeship in 2016. Over the years, Harsimran has developed a strong foundation in the field, and her expertise continues to support the smooth operation of the team. Her dedication and attention to detail make her a valuable asset to the Residential Conveyancing department at Woodfines.
Heidi joined Woodfines straight from school in 1987 after doing work experience. She was offered a job as a junior secretary, leaving after three years, but returned in 1994 and has worked in the Family department ever since!
Job Titles:
- Senior Solicitor - Advocate
Job Titles:
- Administrative Assistant / Operations
- IT Trainer
Ayesha joined Woodfines in November 2023 as a Administrative Assistant in the Operations department. She graduated from the University of Hertfordshire and is currently studying for her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Law and hopes to quality as a Solicitor whilst working at Woodfines
Job Titles:
- Equity Partner & Head of Family
Joseph joined Woodfines September 2023 as a Paralegal in the Agricultural, Rural and Commercial Department. He Graduated from Nottingham Trent University in 2017 after gaining a degree in Law and Psychology. He then went on to do his Masters and LPC at Nottingham Law School. Before starting at Woodfines he had 2 years experience working in Residential, Commercial Property and Agriculture.
Job Titles:
- Administrate Assistant
- Administrative Assistant / Operations
Ayesha joined Woodfines in November 2023 as a Administrative Assistant in the Operations department. She graduated from the University of Hertfordshire and is currently studying for her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Law and hopes to quality as a Solicitor whilst working at Woodfines
Job Titles:
- Business Support Manager
- Administrative Assistant / Operations
Ayesha joined Woodfines in November 2023 as a Administrative Assistant in the Operations department. She graduated from the University of Hertfordshire and is currently studying for her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Law and hopes to quality as a Solicitor whilst working at Woodfines
Job Titles:
- Chartered Legal Executive ( FCILEX )
Job Titles:
- Head of Operations
- Administrative Assistant / Operations
Ayesha joined Woodfines in November 2023 as a Administrative Assistant in the Operations department. She graduated from the University of Hertfordshire and is currently studying for her Legal Practice Course (LPC) at the University of Law and hopes to quality as a Solicitor whilst working at Woodfines
Job Titles:
- Partner & Team Leader for Commercial Property
Job Titles:
- Equity Partner & Head of Regulatory & Dispute Resolution
Job Titles:
- Equity Partner & Head of Private Client
Job Titles:
- Equity Partner & Head of Corporate Commercial
Job Titles:
- Partner & Team Leader for Residential Property
Job Titles:
- Managing Partner & Head of Property