People: Law firms boost clinical negligence team and dispute resolution teams and more

Shaun Rylands has joined Hull-based Bridge McFarland Solicitors’ clinical negligence department.

Rylands handles complex and high value clinical negligence claims and has specialised in acting for clients with catastrophic, life-changing injuries, ranging from children who have cerebral palsy and other birth injuries and adults with acquired brain injuries.

He has led legal teams in settlements of damages of up to £7m.

Rylands said: “Bridge McFarland’s compassionate and empathetic approach to client problems puts the firm in league with some of the top clinical negligence law firms in the country and I am looking forward to playing an instrumental role in the firm’s ongoing success and growth in Hull, Grimsby and Lincoln.”

The clinical negligence department headed by Ian Sprakes, who said: “Shaun’s experience, contacts and skills in handling complex, high value claims makes his appointment an excellent addition to our expanding team and will further add to our reputation in our clinical negligence service offering.”

:::

Commercial law firm Lupton Fawcett has appointed Arif Khalfe as a director in the dispute management department.

Lupton Fawcett, which has offices in Leeds, Sheffield and York, has seen Khalfe join the directorship after working with the firm as a mediator since 2015. He joins from Simpson Millar.

He has experience in professional negligence cases, contentious trusts and probate as well as consumer litigation.

Khalfe also has specialist expertise within Immigration; he advises and assists in all aspects of business and sports immigration which includes advising on sponsorships and visas under the points based systems.

Richard Marshall, managing director, commented: “Arif is a fantastic appointment for the firm and adds real strength to what is already a very well respected team. Clearly Brexit will put immigration onto many employers’ agenda as international recruitment becomes more complex. Arif’s expertise will help and guide clients through the immigration process and any issues they may face.”

:::

Planning consultancy Planning Potential has made two promotions in its specialist consultant team in Harrogate.

Sam Deegan becomes senior planner in Planning Potential’s Harrogate office. Having gained valuable experience in local government, Deegan joined Planning Potential in 2013. He works on a range of projects including retail and leisure developments.

Jamie Pert has been promoted to planner, also in Harrogate. Joining the company as a planning assistant in 2014, Pert has assisted senior colleagues with the preparation of a range of retail and leisure applications.

Founding director of Planning Potential, Helen Cuthbert, says: “One of the secrets to Planning Potential’s success is the quality of our people. These promotions are due reward for the contribution Sam and Jamie have made to providing best-in-class service to our clients in the housing, commercial, retail and leisure, healthcare and education, and heritage sectors.”