Two ‘rising stars’ at a South Coast law firm have been promoted to Partners.
Matthew Clake and David McWilliam joined the board of Ellis Jones Solicitors from August 1.
Matthew, a commercial property specialist, qualified as a solicitor in 2002 and joined Ellis Jones six years ago.
He was promoted to Associate Solicitor in 2009 and took charge of a new commercial team at Ellis Jones’ Ringwood office earlier this year.
His specialist area includes acting for landlords and tenants on commercial leases, land acquisitions and sales and also advising on the sale and purchase of small businesses.
David joined Ellis Jones in 1995 as a trainee Solicitor and qualified in 1997. He was made an Associate in January 2003 and Head of Personal Injury Department four years later.
A committed sportsman, David deals with all accident claims including road traffic accidents, trip and slips, employers’ liability and has a special interest in sporting accidents. He is a keen triathlete and has acted for many cyclists and triathletes.
Nigel Smith, Managing Partner, said the promotions represented “well-deserved recognition for two of our rising stars.”
He added: “David was my first ever trainee and I am very pleased for him that, like me, he has gone from trainee to Partner at Ellis Jones.
“Matt joined us in 2006 when he had the good sense to move to the beautiful south coast to further his career. Since being with us, he has developed an excellent reputation locally and built strong relationships in the world of commercial property.”
Ellis Jones, a Legal 500 firm, is one of the largest law firms in Dorset and West Hampshire with approximately 100 staff including eight partners. It has offices in Bournemouth, Canford Cliffs, Ringwood and Swanage offering a wide range of services to individuals and businesses.
