Bigger local government team for Anthony Collins

BIRMINGHAM-based Anthony Collins Solicitors has expanded its local government team with the appointment of Ben Smith as associate.
 
Smith, an expert in local government law, has joined the firm from Mills & Reeve.  He specialises in procurement, regeneration projects, compulsory purchase and highways law.
 
The local government practice is a key area for the firm, particularly in light of the many changes currently occurring within the public sector. Smith’s appointment is seen as part of a growth strategy built around the firm supporting public sector clients.

Chris Plumley, partner and head of practice, said: “Ben has a really strong reputation within the local government sector.  He’s a market-leading expert and we’re delighted to welcome him to our firm.  The team has been very successful in 2012 and Ben will enhance our already strong offer.  He will help us deliver our unique approach to supporting and working in partnership with our local authority clients.  Along with providing an additional strategic resource Ben’s appointment is integral to our further expansion.”

Linder Myers expands medical negligence service

SHROPSHIRE law firm Linder Myers has appointed a medical negligence solicitor to boost its range of services as it looks to expand its business in the region.

Claire Tellis-Doherty, left, joins the team from Lanyon Bowdler bringing specialist experience in a range of claim types including GP and hospital negligence, clinical misdiagnosis, brain and spinal injuries and complex birth injury cases.

Richard Ashton, trusts & estates and regional managing partner at Linder Myers, said: “Claire’s appointment further boosts our local offer and she joins a very well established team at Linder Myers firmwide. Sadly, medical negligence claims are becoming more common and we continue to strive to meet the needs of our local clients to ensure that we can advise them on any area of the law that they may require.”

New patent attorney for Withers & Rogers

THE Leamington Spa office of patent and trade mark attorneys, Withers & Rogers, has appointed a trainee patent attorney as part of its ongoing investment in the firm.

Kevin Hanson has joined the firm’s Advanced Engineering Group (AEG) as a trainee patent attorney.

Hanson is an experienced engineer, specialising in electro-mechanical, mechanical and engineering-based fields, and already has a year’s experience as a trainee patent attorney with a regional firm.

His career spans more than 15 years and includes being employed by the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, Wyman-Gordon, and Lincat.

Dave Croston, partner and patent attorney at Withers & Rogers, said: “Kevin’s extensive engineering knowledge and experience will be of significant benefit to the firm and in turn, it is great to be able to welcome him as a trainee in the world of patent law while offering him an opportunity to develop his career.”

Withers & Rogers also has offices in London, Sheffield and Bristol.