MSB - Key Persons
Alison has been a Criminal Defence lawyer since qualification 24 years ago. She has worked on every type of criminal case ranging form minor motoring matters to murders and large scale multi-million pound frauds. She is an accomplished advocate who always puts her clients first.
Job Titles:
- Consultant, Head of Regulatory
Allan has been a Criminal Law practitioner since his qualification in 1976. He was a founder and Managing Partner, as well as Head of Crime, at JMW Solicitors (1976-1992) before founding Maidments Solicitors as Senior Director and Head of Crime (1992-2019). Allan specialises in the defence of complex and serious fraud casework nationwide, undertaking many high profile cases. His role with MSB is to devlop and expand crime and regulatory work across the network of offices to establish national Crime and Regulatory teams undertaking serious and complex fraud and regulatory casework.
Job Titles:
- Partner, Head of Housing Management
Amy has specialised in housing litigation since 2005 and became a Solicitor in 2008 after completing the Bar Vocational Course. She has been with MSB's Social Housing and Regeneration Team since February 2021, bringing expertise in areas such as Housing Management, Anti-Social Behaviour, Compliance-based Litigation, Possession Claims and Disrepair. Amy regularly delivers client training, holds legal drop-in surgeries, and offers free legal advice during estate walkarounds. In 2024, Amy led the creation of a dedicated social media platform for the team, which has grown to over 1200 followers, sharing case law updates and team achievements. Amy drafts the team's newsletter, coordinates content, and ensures junior staff gain valuable publication experience. Throughout her career, Amy has worked on high-profile appeals, including one in the Court of Appeal that reshaped how anti-social behaviour cases are considered by the court. Her passion for housing litigation is evident in her continued focus on social housing, and she is dedicated to advancing both the legal profession and client service
Job Titles:
- Partner, Head of Built Environment and Compliance
Andrew's extensive litigation knowledge and experience has led him to be a key member of the team, and he is now trusted as the Compliance specialist within the Social Housing Team and works closely with various Registered Providers. Andrew does not like to simply follow what has gone before but to find new and creative ways of achieving desired outcomes for his client, highlighted by his successful forced entry clauses and ex parte injunction applications for breach of tenancy matters. Andrew has developed a significant and unparalleled reputation, leading to a loyal client base across the North West and beyond. Andrew leads our social housing team based in the Manchester office.
Job Titles:
- Partner, Head of ASB and Leasehold
Andy is a dual-qualified Solicitor and Chartered Legal Executive with a wealth of experience in technical land disputes and residential landlord and tenant matters on behalf of both Registered Provider and private clients.
His career in social housing law began in 2010 when he was employed as a Graduate Clerk by a Legal 500 legal aid practice. In 2013, Andy began acting for Registered Providers at a national Tier 1 Legal 500 firm. In 2019, Andy joined MSB Solicitors as Head of Homeownership and Leasehold (Social Housing), an appointment as part of the firm's expansion following the acquisition of Knox Ellis.
In 2020, Andy was promoted to Senior Associate Solicitor and his practice portfolio was expanded to head up both Anti-Social Behaviour and Leasehold (Social Housing). In 2022, Andy was appointed as a Partner at the firm, playing a key role in senior leadership of the firm and its transition to a medium-sized law firm.
Job Titles:
- Director and Head of the Real Estate Department
- Partner, Head of Real Estate
As a Director and Head of the Real Estate department at MSB Solicitors, Brad Armstrong leads the firm's residential and commercial property practices, which provide comprehensive legal expertise across the real estate spectrum. His role involves ensuring that clients receive strategic, solution-oriented advice tailored to their needs.
Brad specialises in real estate investment, development and secured finance transactions, representing investors, developers, and financial institutions. With a deep understanding of the market and regulatory landscape, he guides clients through the intricacies of secured funding arrangements, property acquisitions, disposals and development.
Calum specialises in private family law particularly divorce and financial remedies work but also arrangements for children, including relocation abroad; issues between unmarried couples, and relationship agreements such as pre and post nuptial agreements and cohabitation agreements. He has acted for high net worth and ultra high net worth individuals and everyone else along the way.
Dan specialises in general crime and has represented clients in matters across the spectrum of offences, including murder, fraud, drug and firearm conspiracies and sexual offences. He represents clients at the police station, establishing a good rapport with his patient and client-centred approach and provides methodical and tailored advice. Dan prepares Magistrates and Crown Court cases and is driven by achieving the best possible outcome for his clients. He regularly advises on Proceeds of Crime Act confiscation and forfeiture proceedings as well as exceptional hardship applications and taxi licence appeals against local authorities.
Emma leads a team of specialists across our offices in Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham and Cheshire. In her own case work, Emma is a specialist in complex children proceedings and cross border family cases. Emma represents clients worldwide usually in cases heard in the High Court or Court of Appeal.
Emma Carey is the Managing Partner of MSB Solicitors, a nationally recognised law firm known for its commitment to excellence, equity and community impact. After graduating from the University of Liverpool and completing her legal studies at Chester College of Law, Emma began her legal career with a brief but formative role at Birkenhead Citizens Advice Bureau, where she developed a deep understanding of the legal needs of local communities.
Emma joined MSB as the firm's first-ever female trainee solicitor and has remained with the company ever since, breaking new ground at every stage of her career. She went on to become MSB's first female solicitor, associate, partner, and, in 2018, its first female Managing Partner.
A highly respected expert in family law, Emma was quickly appointed Head of the Family Department after qualification. Under her leadership, the department grew from a single filing cabinet to one of the largest and most acclaimed family law teams in the country. She is accredited by Resolution in domestic abuse and international child abduction, and was instrumental in establishing MSB's International Abduction Panel. Emma also holds ICACU panel status and has been recognised as a Leading Individual in The Legal 500 every year since 2014.
As Managing Partner, Emma has led MSB's transformation from a regional practice into a leading national firm. Her strategic leadership has earned the firm numerous national and regional awards, particularly for contributions to ESG, EDI, and broader legal community impact.
Emma is deeply committed to the development of future legal talent. Four of MSB's current partners began their careers as her trainees, and three of her personal assistants have gone on to qualify as solicitors. She considers her mentorship and influence on the next generation one of her greatest professional achievements.
A passionate advocate for equity and inclusion, Emma chairs MSB's EDI/ESG Committee, which she established to ensure accountability at the highest levels. She believes that achieving equity starts with inclusive leadership and that meaningful change requires decision-makers to be actively involved. She has served as a trustee for several organisations focused on social justice and equality, including Blackburne House and the Anthony Walker Foundation. Emma currently sits on the board of Citizens Advice and is a patron of Mandela8.
Her many accolades include 14 professional awards, most recently the Navajo Shero Award and Modern Law's Managing Partner of the Year. Emma's leadership, legal expertise and commitment to social progress continue to shape both her firm and the wider legal profession.
Emma Carey, appointed Managing Partner in March 2018, qualified in 2000 and founded MSB's award‑winning Family Law Department. Emma was the first female Trainee Solicitor, rising through the ranks to become the first female Partner.
Emma is a highly regarded Lawyer, ranked by Legal 500 & Chambers & Partners for her legal expertise in child abduction and domestic abuse proceedings. She is also a trustee of Citizens Advice Liverpool, Mandela8, and the NSPCC Merseyside & Cheshire, reflecting her dedication to access and justice beyond the courtroom.
As Managing Partner, Emma leads with purpose, championing inclusivity, social justice and innovation at every level of the firm. She is widely known not just for her legal expertise but for her ability to empower teams, build inclusive cultures and push for meaningful change in the legal profession. Her leadership style blends empathy with strategic clarity, earning her respect from colleagues, clients and the wider community alike. Emma's work as a trustee for multiple charities and her advocacy for equality make her not only a formidable lawyer, but also a role model committed to leaving a legacy far beyond the courtroom.
Gemma Kelsey is a leading family lawyer specialising in children matters and complex international cross-border children disputes. Gemma has established herself as an expert in the field of international children law. Qualifying in 2008, Gemma has significant experience in representing parents in complex children cases and cases involving domestic abuse. Gemma also has significant expertise in children cases involving aspects of SEN. Gemma is a Resolution Accredited Specialist in the fields of Child Abduction Law, Private Children Law and Domestic Abuse. She is a trained Domestic Abuse Champion.
Job Titles:
- Chartered Legal Executive
- Partner
Hayley Catherall has a wealth of experience in family law, dealing with complex divorce cases, financial matters relating to divorce and co-habitation cases. She also handles children matters, representing parents in disputes against each other and parents dealing with social services. Hayley provides advice in relation to the preparation of pre and post-nuptial agreements and co-habitation agreements. She has dealt with international financial cases and high net worth cases. Additionally, she represents clients requiring legal aid and those who are vulnerable. Hayley is a Resolution Accredited Specialist in both domestic abuse and co-habitation cases.
Hayley Catherall is recognised in the pro bono directory for assisting clients on a pro bono basis. She visits Hope Business School each year to provide an internship within the firm. She is an advocate for dementia charities and is passionate about animal welfare, assisting various charities in fundraising. Hayley is also trained to deal with clients with autism.
Job Titles:
- Senior Associate
- Member of the Law Society Family Law Panel
Hazel Bacon is a member of the Law Society Family Law Panel and a Resolution Accredited Specialist in the disciplines of private children law and domestic abuse.
Job Titles:
- Partner ( Non - Lawyer ) Finance & Practice Partner COFA
Joanne Dalton joined MSB Solicitors in September 2000, when the firm was a close-knit team of around 30 people. She came on board as Senior Legal Finance Manager, a department of one at the time, and quickly made her mark. Over the years, she has built the finance function into a thriving team of six, playing a key role in shaping the operational backbone of the firm.
Joanne's responsibilities naturally evolved as the firm grew. She expanded her knowledge into IT and HR, both of which are now fully developed departments with dedicated Heads and support teams. Through years of dedication, leadership and strategic contribution 2010, she became MSB's first non-lawyer partner.
Her impact at MSB reaches far beyond finance. Joanne has led numerous office relocations as the firm expanded across Liverpool, Cheshire, Manchester, Chester and Birmingham. She introduced the firm's apprenticeship and solicitor apprentice schemes, driven by a personal passion for mentoring those coming into the legal profession through non-traditional routes. For her outstanding contribution, she was named Practice Manager of the Year by the Law Society.
Working closely alongside Managing Partner Emma Carey, Joanne has played a central role in MSB's continued growth and success. She takes great pride in seeing junior team members thrive, many of whom she supported all the way to partnership.
As Compliance Officer for Finance and Administration (COFA), Joanne ensures MSB remains compliant with regulatory standards while maintaining strong internal controls in finance, risk management, fraud prevention, and cyber security. She continues to be a driving force behind the firm's operational excellence and inclusive culture.
Having amassed over 20 years of criminal practice, John Davies has defended individuals and organisations in matters brought by the full range of prosecuting authorities including the Crown Prosecution Service, the Serious Fraud Office, the Financial Conduct Authority, HMRC, the Health and Safety Executive and the Environment Agency, among others.
John has defended countless motorists charged with offences ranging from death by dangerous driving to driving without due care and has defended in other transport cases involving the DVSA, the Traffic Commissioner and even the Civil Aviation Authority. John has also represented professional clients in experiences with regulatory bodies such as ACCA, the General Pharmaceutical Council and the UK Council of Psychotherapists.
John Owens is based in our Manchester office and has over 10 years' experience in Family Law, representing clients with a particular focus on divorce, high net worth financial matters ancillary to divorce, the preparation of both pre and post nuptial agreements and financial applications issued on behalf of children in cases which involve unmarried couples. He has experience of complex cases, often involving businesses, overseas assets, complicated pension or trust arrangements and inherited assets. John also deals with cases where arrangements for the care of children are an issue, focusing on private Children Act Proceedings.
Kiran Aslam joined MSB's Social Housing team in July 2025 as a Housing Litigation solicitor. She qualified in September 2024 and has over three years of experience working in housing law, acting for social landlords on a wide range of matters including possession claims, injunctions, disrepair and tenancy enforcement.
Job Titles:
- Head of Social Housing
- Partner, Head of Social Housing and Regeneration
Louise Murphy is an award-winning Partner and Head of Social Housing and Regeneration with over 20 years' experience in the social housing sector. The 2023 Inspirational Leader of the Year and Legal 500 next generation Partner has built the social housing team into a formidable unit providing registered providers of social housing with jargon free, pragmatic and results driven legal advice. Louise is a specialist housing solicitor, being regularly called upon to speak at leading industry events including the Liverpool Law Society Annual Housing Disrepair conference, the Northern Housing Conference and the Westminster Insight digital conferences.
Louise is a mentor to all younger members of the MSB team and has guided countless trainee solicitors through their contracts enabling them to have a well rounded education and experience. She values hard work and client care making sure each trainee understands the importance of team work, collaboration and attention to detail. Louise is deeply committed to advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the legal profession, the social housing sector and the wider community. Louise actively participates in MSB's EDI network, where she contributes to initiatives aimed at increasing access to legal support for underrepresented groups. Louise's personal values are rooted in fairness and social justice, and she is particularly passionate about ensuring that vulnerable individuals have equal access to safe, secure housing - a fundamental right that underpins dignity and inclusion.
Mahan Manu has over 28 years experience in criminal practice having qualified in 2001. He was a partner and director of Maidments Solicitors between 1997 to 2014 and founded Maidments Solicitors in Birmingham in 1997. Mahan attained Higher Court Rights Status for criminal litigation, enabling him to practice in the Magistrates Court, Crown Court and Appeal Courts. He is also a Duty Solicitor, Supervisor for the Legal Services Commission Franchise and a member of the Birmingham Law Society. Mahan has significant experience in high profile cases of serious fraud, including diversion, MTIC, insurance and banking fraud and serious crime, including representation in long running complex investigations.
Job Titles:
- Partner, Head of Litigation
- Partner, Head of Litigation / Robert Lee
Mark joined MSB as a Partner in 2010. Having qualified as a Solicitor in 1994, he successfully practiced in a large corporate law firm before founding his own commercial firm. Mark heads a team of 18 and supervises MSB's business team, comprising of corporate and commercial litigation, construction and employment teams.
Career History
Mark qualified as a Solicitor in 1994 and successfully practiced in a large corporate law firm before founding his own commercial firm.
Michael Mckeown is regarded as one of the leading case lawyers in the country. That reputation comes from his exceptional results for clients, particularly at the earliest stages of an investigation. Michael prides himself on being instructed prior to interview and post interview prior to charge whereby he will get to work for his client's best interests in preparing their defence rather than let his clients wait for a decision to charge. He specialises in complex and large scale conspiracies involving mortgage fraud, fraud relative to government institutions, fraud generally, corruption in public office, drug supply/importation, firearms and complex murder matters. Michael provides straight and honest advice, simplifying complex issues to his clients so they can understand and appreciate the advice they receive.
Pippa Tudor works between our Liverpool and Chester office but has clients across the UK. Pippa's cases regularly involve mid to high-net-worth assets, businesses, overseas assets, complex pension or trust arrangements, non-matrimonial assets and third-party interests, suspected hidden assets and non-disclosure and spousal maintenance. Throughout her career, Pippa has represented TV personalities, business owners, doctors, dentists, police officers other legal professionals. Pippa prides herself on her attention to detail and forensic examination. Passionate about the work she does, Pippa is approachable and empathetic with a robust and pragmatic approach to achieving the best possible outcome for her clients. Pippa has excellent instinct and judgment and does not shy away from running difficult or unattractive arguments. Pippa is tenacious and regularly achieves stand out results for her clients.
Job Titles:
- Partner, Head of Employment
Steve leads the Employment Team at MSB Solicitors, having joined the firm in November 2021 as a Senior Associate following his time at Aaron & Partners LLP in Chester. Since qualifying as a solicitor in 2009, Steve has specialised exclusively in employment law, building a strong reputation in the field. He has been recommended in The Legal 500 directory of leading employment lawyers. Steve advises both employers and employees across the full spectrum of employment law matters. In addition to his advisory work, Steve regularly represents clients in Employment Tribunal proceedings, conducting his own advocacy. He also delivers tailored training and presentations to clients on a wide range of employment law topics.
Susan has practised Family Law for over 40 years with a wide range of experience in all aspects. She is a founder member of the Solicitors Family Law Association in Scotland and is an active member of Resolution, the English equivalent. Susan is an accredited Family Mediator, trained in hybrid mediation and child inclusive mediation, and former Chair of Cheshire and North Wales Resolution. She is Secretary of the Cheshire Collaborative Family Lawyer's group.
Susan has consistently provided pro bono work throughout her career by volunteering at the CAB and other outreach projects. She has organised fundraising initiatives for a variety of charities, raising over £80,000 for Myeloma UK following her husband's diagnosis with the condition.