Law firm Geldards has expanded into the East of England with the opening of a new office in Chelmsford. The move into Essex and neighbouring areas is part of the firm’s growth strategy and its aim to bring high-quality legal advice to clients across the region.
The new office is led by Partner Thomas Emmett. Alongside his education sector practice, Thomas advises businesses, investors and public sector organisations on a broad range of corporate, commercial, banking and regulatory matters.
A team built on local demand
Thomas is joined by a team of legal advisers who give clients in Chelmsford and across Essex access to Geldards’ wider full-service expertise. The team was set up in response to local demand, offering a full commercial law service to the region’s fast-growing commercial and public sectors.
Commercial Property lawyer Jennifer Rayner brings more than a decade of experience, having worked in City law firms before developing her practice in Essex. She advises the private and public sectors on a wide range of commercial property matters, with clients including educational institutions, charities, businesses, local authorities, high-net-worth individuals and pension funds.
Employment Solicitor Charlotte Holman has more than ten years of employment law and HR experience. She has advised national and international companies on contentious and non-contentious matters, as well as education sector clients and employees, and specialises in high-value dispute negotiations, conducting her own tribunal advocacy.
The team is supported by experienced corporate paralegal Sarah Hawkins, with further appointments expected in the coming weeks.
Joining a national network
The Chelmsford base joins Geldards’ existing offices in Cardiff, Derby, Nottingham and London. The team is based in the Nest co-working space within Station House, in the heart of Chelmsford and close to local transport links.
Geldards Chief Executive Jeff Pearson said: “We are thrilled to announce Geldards’ new office in Chelmsford. It represents a significant milestone in our expansion strategy, born from the exceptional demand we have seen from clients over the past few years. Bringing our first-class legal services to the East of England helps cement our reputation as a leading national law firm.”
Thomas Emmett, Partner and Head of Schools, Colleges and Universities, added: “I am delighted to be leading Geldards’ new Chelmsford office and developing our presence across Essex. Our team of solicitors in Chelmsford are highly skilled and renowned in the local market for their expertise and deep sector knowledge. We look forward to building close relationships with local businesses, charities, educational institutions and other organisations, strengthening our presence in Chelmsford and the East of England.”
About Geldards
Geldards is one of the UK’s leading regional law firms, with more than 350 staff based in Wales, the Midlands and London. It is a full-service firm providing practical legal advice to private and public companies, local authorities, public bodies, charities and government agencies, as well as private individuals. Find out more at geldards.com.
