ARNOLD THOMSON - Key Persons
Alberta is one of the Firm's Directors. She joined Arnold Thomson in June 2014 having spent 17 years at a well-regarded local firm heading up the residential conveyancing team and dealing with high volume residential property work.
With almost 20 years of experience, Alberta's wealth of knowledge and level of expertise in residential property is highly commendable. She is well known for her professional yet very approachable manner. Alberta's reputation as a residential property expert is enviable and she has developed and nurtured excellent relationships with professional contacts and clients over the years, providing each and every client with a bespoke and personal service tailored to their particular needs. Quite the country girl at heart, Alberta feels very much at home with the "lawyers for the countryside".
For Alberta, ultimate fulfilment in her work comes from meeting and exceeding clients' expectations, delivering the best results for them and providing skillful and legal guidance through what can sometimes be a complex and frustrating period. According to Alberta, "the joy it brings to my clients when their house is sold or bought or when their instructions regarding their properties are well executed and delivered, that makes all the hard work so worthwhile for me"
Alberta enjoys horse riding in her spare time. She lives with her family in a village to the west of Towcester.
Job Titles:
- Head of Commercial Property
- Head of Our Commercial Property Team
Angela Guess is the Head of our Commercial Property Team. She is a Commercial Property Solicitor, having qualified in 1998. Angela's specific areas of expertise include site acquisition work for both commercial and residential developments; option and pre-emption agreements, together with promotion agreements, having acted for both landowners and developers; acting for landlords and tenants in all commercial leasehold matters.
Angela is a firm believer of going the extra mile for her clients. She approaches every matter meticulously, and she is as proactive as she is robust in looking after her clients' best interests. This level of dedication and commitment to client care, has earned Angela an enviable reputation amongst, not only her clients, but also her colleagues and professional contacts.
Outside of work, Angela loves to escape by relaxing with Yoga, running and walking on the North Yorkshire moors.
Job Titles:
- Paralegal
- Residential Property Paralegal
Ben is a Residential Property Paralegal. He joined the Firm as an Apprentice in 2015 and has worked his way up since then; completing his Undergraduate studies to obtain his LLB degree and he is currently studying for his LPC exams and LLM qualification, all while working full time.
Ben has gained significant knowledge in several areas of property transactions, and he is particularly adept at Land Registration applications. A budding member of the Arnold Thomson Team, Ben continues to show great promise as he progresses towards his ultimate goal of qualifying as a Solicitor.
In his spare time, Ben is a massive football fan following Manchester United. He also enjoys playing for his local football team at the weekends and competing against his friends at golf during the week. Most importantly Ben loves spending quality time with his family and friends.
Caroline became a Consultant for Arnold Thomson in February 2017 to advise on contentious probate disputes.
Caroline advises on issues arising out of problems with estates, and wills, including probate actions where the mental capacity of the deceased is in dispute, want of knowledge and approval claims and complex cases under the Inheritance (Family and Dependants) Act 1975, litigation involving construction of wills, actions against personal representatives and trustees, and issues arising in relation to Powers of Attorney and complex matters in the Court of Protection.
Caroline delivers pragmatic advice in sensitive situations, guiding clients through the system, and always trying to resolve matters through alternative dispute resolution.
Job Titles:
- Commercial Property Solicitor ( Consultant )
Chris qualified as a Solicitor in 1981 following the conclusion of her training contract in Leicester. She joined Arnold Thomson in 1990, having previously worked with Mike Thomson at Shoosmith & Harrison in Northampton. Her particular expertise lies in commercial property matters generally. Ranked as a Leading Individual in her chosen field of Commercial Property by Chambers & Partners UK, Chris has developed enviable experience and proficiency in property development: both commercial and residential, option agreements and commercial tenancies including telecommunication agreements. She is highly respected and regarded in the commercial property field by clients and professional contacts alike.
According to Chambers UK, Chris "gets on well with clients and maintains a good reputation in rural renewable energy projects".
"Christine Simkins deals with commercial property matters, including property development and option agreements. She has experience assisting landowners and farmers with telecommunications agreements."
Outside of work, Chris loves spending time with her family, walking her dog and travelling.
Job Titles:
- Private Client Lawyer
- Private Client Specialist
Karen is Private Client specialist and assists clients with matters relating to Wills, Probate (Estate Administration), Lasting Powers of Attorney as well as Inheritance Tax. With several years of experience, Karen adds her wealth of knowledge and expertise to our Private Client Team. Her other areas of expertise include dealing with the Office of the Public Guardian and the Court of Protection.
With more than 2 decades of experience, Karen is very passionate about and dedicated to the protection of her clients' best interests and skilfully guiding them through what is quite often a most difficult time.
Outside of work, Karen enjoys spending time with her family and travelling; a hobby which has seen her visiting several places from the Far East to the Americas. She is also a keen horse rider.
Recommended by the Legal 500, as well as Chambers & Partners UK, Kate is one of the Firm's Directors.
She specialises in Agricultural Property & Rural Estates. Kate adds several years of experience and a wealth of knowledge on Agriculture and Rural Business matters to the Firm's Agricultural Property Team. Accustomed to dealing with all aspects of Agricultural property and land transactions ranging from purchase and sale to granting of mortgage security and deeds of easements, Kate is not one to shy away from complex matters, and she relishes the challenges presented by oftentimes complicated first registrations at the Land Registry and in particular when title deeds may have been lost or destroyed. She also has experience in the preparation and submission of adverse possession applications for the registration of registered and unregistered land at the Land Registry.
Kate has successfully developed an enviable reputation for herself in the Agriculture and Rural Business sector. She is known to her clients as "someone who gets the job done" and has been described by professional colleagues as "an absolute delight to work with". Kate is very passionate about protecting her clients' best interests and adopts a very robust and highly proactive approach to every matter she has conduct of. According to the Legal 500, the "very proficient Kate Austin thinks outside a box to provide practical solutions."
The current Chambers UK Guide 2022 confirms that Kate as "is sought after for her extensive knowledge of agricultural and rural property transactions, as well as her expertise in registration of land and deeds of easement." Previous editions also attested to the fact that she "is sought after for her extensive knowledge of agricultural and rural property transactions, as well as her expertise in registration of land and deeds of easement… (she) regularly advises on agricultural and residential property transactions. She attracts client praise for being "approachable, conscientious and thorough."
In her spare time Kate enjoys riding her horse and is a keen spectator at a variety of equestrian events.
Job Titles:
- Residential Property Lawyer
Laura is an experienced Residential Property Lawyer. She brings more than 17 years of experience to our Residential Property Team.
Laura specialises in every aspect of residential property sale, purchase, re-mortgage, and transfer of equity. Her ability and enviable skill to approach any situation with composure and her wealth of knowledge instils confidence in clients and colleagues alike. Laura is a firm believer in the delivery of excellent client care, which fits her in perfectly with the Firm's dedication to the protection of its clients' best interests.
Outside of work Laura enjoys spending time with family, crafting, reading and finds joy in baking and cooking.
She is an avid follower of Watford FC and enjoys attending home games.
Mark joined the Firm in 2001 as our Legal Cashier and effectively worked his way up to his current position of Accounts Manager in 2007.
As his title suggests, Mark is tasked with the very important role of looking after both the clients' and the Firm's monies. In particular, Mark's primary responsibility is the day to day running of our clients' account to ensure strict compliance with the Solicitor's Accounts Rules. This means making sure that all the funds paid to us by our clients are accurately allocated, and that all payments we accept on their behalf get to the right place at the right time. Mark is very good at what he does and has frequently been referred to as a very safe pair of hands!
A man of many talents, Mark also acts as the Firm's ‘front line' IT support, helping to make sure that our network and computers are running smoothly and as such empowering our staff to deliver prompt services to our clients.
Mark, in his spare time is a very keen reader and an avid football supporter- very much the family man, the team he currently swears allegiance to is none other than the one his young son plays for. He also enjoys cooking and growing what he proudly calls "magnificent vegetables" in his garden. If you say so yourself Mark; if you say so yourself!
Matt Hawkins is the epitome of hard work and tenacity. Matt joined the Firm in the capacity of a Trainee Solicitor in 2002. He became a qualified solicitor in April 2004. With his determined, robust and proactive approach, Matt worked his way up the ranks to the well-earned position of Director in 2007.
Matt's particular interest lies in property matters affecting landowners and farmers with specific focus on farms, estate sales and purchases, agricultural tenancies, development land sales (including promotion and option agreements), re-mortgages and intra-family transfers. He has comprehensive knowledge of the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) and Environmental Stewardship. Matt also provides inheritance tax planning advice to his clients, especially in relation to Agricultural Property Relief, Business Property Relief and general succession planning. He is a member of the Agricultural Law Association and CLA; often presenting seminars to clients and other professionals on agricultural-related topics.
As meticulous as he is proactive, Matt's affable nature and amiable personality is immediately apparent to clients, colleagues and other professionals. His deep interest in his work, enthusiasm and dedication to clients is also clearly evident in the way he applies very practical and cost effective solutions to their matters. He is ranked as a Leading Individual by both the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners UK. The Legal 500 UK, describes Matt as an "excellent communicator with exemplary attention to detail and extensive knowledge of agricultural property law."
According to the current Chambers & Partners UK Guide, Matt is "adept at advising farmers and landowning clients on rural property transactions, as well as development and tenancy issues."
In whatever spare time he allows himself, Matt enjoys a wayward game of golf at the weekend. He also supports local country pursuits and is of course a dedicated season ticket holder at Northampton Saints!
Morgan Baines is a Solicitor in our Agricultural Property Team. She joined Arnold Thomson in 2018 and has successfully progressed from her initial role as a Paralegal to a Trainee Solicitor and a qualified solicitor, through hard work, tenacity and determination.
A budding property expert, Morgan has gained a wealth of experience across our Property Departments. Her main focus is on Agricultural Property; building upon an in-depth understanding and knowledge of the various aspects of Agricultural Property & Rural Estate. She has also gained expertise and is continuing to expand her knowledge in Commercial Property matters.
Morgan approaches matters meticulously, with admirable dedication and commitment. She has proven herself to be a hardworking and trusted member of the Firm and we are incredibly proud of her and her achievements. With her amiable personality, Morgan is well liked by colleagues and clients.
In her spare time, Morgan is an avid follower of Northampton Saints and enjoys attending home games. She also particularly enjoys traveling and exploring the outdoors.
Job Titles:
- Director & Head of Private Client
- Trustee for Myton Hospice
Nadiya Virani-Bland is the Head of Private Client. She is a Private Client Solicitor who specialises in Wills, Probate, Inheritance Tax, Trusts and Court of Protection Applications. She is a noted practitioner in Chambers and Partners UK. Nadiya's particular areas of expertise cover all matters relating to Wills, Trusts and Probate, including detailed advice on the drafting of Trusts, inheritance tax and planning for future generations as well as complex applications to the Court of Protection for the appointments of Deputies, Statutory Wills and obtaining permission to make gifts on behalf of individuals who lack capacity.
Nadiya is an appointed Court of Protection deputy where due to the lack of capacity or other similar reasons, some clients develop complex needs and they and their families are faced with rather challenging circumstances. With more than 10 years of experience and a passionate dedication to looking after the needs of her clients and their families, Nadiya understands more than most, the difficulties clients and their families face in these situations. She is determined to provide clients with excellent legal advice, professional support and guidance all through the applicable process. Her combination of attention to detail, robust and proactive approach to matters has earned her the reputation of a meticulous, thorough and very capable pair of hands to who clients entrust their most delicate affairs.
Nadiya also acts as a professional trustee and she is particularly passionate about providing legal assistance on future planning. Working closely with our agricultural, residential and commercial property teams, Nadiya is very keen to provide clients with advice on inheritance tax matters and the most efficient ways to achieve their goals through carefully drafted Wills and Trusts.
Outside of work, Nadiya is a volunteer trustee for Myton Hospice and loves spending time with her young family. She also enjoys the outdoors.
Paula is our Office Manager and she has been at Arnold Thomson Solicitors since 2002; rising through the ranks to her current position with hard work and determination. Paula is in charge of the smooth operation of the Firm on a day to day basis and as such she wears many hats, depending on the prevalent need at any moment in time.
Her daily duties range from recruitment, staff management, and other aspects of HR, to buildings and facilities management as well as marketing. Paula works with the legal team as well as the support team in both branches of Arnold Thomson to ensure that the Firm's operations are as seamless as possible. With an extensive background in event management and an impressive work history including working for the National Trust, Paula is also an adept hand at organising the Firm's seminars, networking and social events.
Outside work, Paula loves spending time at home with her young family and she is very partial to cooking, sampling the food (this is only fair after all!) and socialising with friends and family. Paula also loves her holidays.
Job Titles:
- Morning Receptionist and Accounts Clerk
Job Titles:
- Director
- Head of Finance
- Director & Head of Financ
Remi is a Director and the Firm's Head of Financial Administration (HOFA). With more than 18 years of experience in law firm management across the country and with a solid legal background, Remi specialises in every aspect of regulatory and statutory compliance, risk management, and the maintenance of quality and the high standard of client care to which Arnold Thomson's clients are accustomed.
Being a Libra, ‘balancing the scales' comes naturally to Remi and she is adept at problem solving. Remi is very passionate about people management, nurturing and assisting individuals with the recognition and maximisation of their potentials. With a Master's degree in International Law and Arbitration, dispute resolution is also one of Remi's areas of expertise, as a consequence of which she is also the Firm's Complaints Manager.
Working seamlessly together with the other members of the Arnold Thomson team, Remi's main focus is on preserving the quality of our services and level of professionalism with which we continue to meet and exceed our valued clients' expectations.
Outside of work, Remi devotes her time to her family. She thoroughly enjoys cooking and baking for her husband and 3 children, who just as thoroughly enjoy her culinary experimentations. She is an avid reader, a prolific writer and can certainly carry a tune or two.
Rhianna joined us as a Private Client Paralegal in 2021, having previously worked and gained impressive experience at a reputable Law Firm in London. Rhianna brings commendable enthusiasm and dedication to her role Rhianna brings commendable enthusiasm and dedication to her role.
Rhianna is as meticulous as she is proactive in how she approaches every matter. Her organisational skills, commitment to quality client care and genuine desire to assist clients in what is quite often one of the most difficult times in life, attest to the fact that she is an excellent addition to the Firm. She is continuing to develop her skills and breadth of experience.
When she is not at work or on client visits, Rhianna enjoys spending time with her friends and family. She also loves to travel and explore new places, which has seen her volunteer in Madagascar and travel South East Asia.
She also enjoys being outdoors and loves a bike ride when the weather permits.
Job Titles:
- Chartered Legal Executive
- Associate - Chartered Legal Executiv
- Associate - Chartered Legal Executive
Rhiannon Beswick is a Chartered Legal Executive, having diligently worked her way through the legal profession, starting from a secretarial position. Rhi joined Arnold Thomson's Commercial Property Team in 2017, bringing enthusiasm and many years of expertise to her role as a Commercial Property Lawyer. It was evident from Rhi's first meeting with the Firm that she shares Arnold Thomson's dedication and commitment to meeting clients' expectations. She is an excellent addition to the team and to the Firm as a whole. In recognition of her hard work, diligence, and highly commendable client care, Rhi has been promoted to the role of Associate Lawyer; a challenge she relishes and will no doubt excel at.
Rhi's areas of expertise include landlord and tenant matters such as the granting, acquiring and assignment of both residential and commercial leasehold interests - any necessary formal variation to such interests, commercial freehold property sale and purchase transactions, as well as associated lending formalities. Rhi particularly enjoys property transactions involving the acquisition and subsequent sale of developed land, those involving the auction process and land registration matters - including the first registration of a legal title with HM Land Registry or a claim for adverse possession.
In addition, she has considerable experience assisting landlords and/or management companies with the property related legal formalities of leasehold estate management and assisting Parish Councils with the varied land and property related matters encountered within their jurisdiction. Known to clients as a dependable and capable pair of hands, Rhi is accustomed to providing tailor-made solutions to clients' needs and operates strictly on a one-hat-doesn't-always-fit-all principle. She adopts a bespoke approach suitable to each client's needs and best interest.
As Rhi's role within the firm has progressed, she has gained considerable experience in assisting landowners with the granting and renewal of telecommunication mast Code Agreements. She is also able to assist with schemes involving solar energy, energy storage and biogas production. With transactions of this nature often taking the form of Option Agreements and Leases, they fall perfectly within her areas of expertise. Acutely aware of the future emphasis on environmentally friendly ways of producing energy, as well as the importance of the UK's communication infrastructure, Rhi is excited to assist landowners in becoming part of such schemes.
Rosamund (Roz) is one of our Private Client Solicitors, and a great addition to our Team. During her legal training and in the lead up to qualification, Roz has gained years of experience in Private Client work, dealing with such matters as Estate Administration, Will drafting, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Trust Deed drafting, and Land Registry applications associated with Private Client matters.
In all the work that Roz undertakes, it is of utmost importance to her that she builds a robust relationship with her clients from the outset; one based on trust, empathy and being approachable. As her work often brings her into contact with elderly or vulnerable clients, she feels that the ability to establish such a relationship is particularly necessary and important.
As well as bringing the right personal skills to the role, Roz understands that these must be coupled with a professional and efficient handling of her client's matter so that when it concludes, her client is satisfied that they have received the best possible legal service.
When not at work, Roz enjoys spending time with friends and family, often exploring the local countryside on a long walk. She also enjoys reading and loves sitting in the garden on a sunny day with her head in a book.
Job Titles:
- Chartered Legal Executive
Samantha specialises in Wills, Estate Administration and Lasting Powers of Attorney. She is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives and has years of experience. She is very familiar with the Court of Protection Deputyship Order applications. Samantha is also very passionate about matters which relate to our elderly clients.
With years of experience, Samantha is very attuned to and appreciative of her clients' needs. She confirms that by the very nature of her work, it is not uncommon for some clients to be distraught and going through a most emotional time when she meets with them. "As a Wills and Probate lawyer, it is my priority to ensure that my clients are carefully and skilfully guided through whichever legal process applies to them, taking into due consideration at all times, their personal circumstances".
Outside of work, Samantha enjoys a session or two of Zumba and is even rather fond of a bit of tap dancing.