Shortly after the opening of its new office in Bristol, nationally recognised law firm Buckles has further strengthened its offering, with the appointment of Partner Phillippa O’Neill as Head of the firm’s Commercial Dispute Resolution team and Partner Ben Fox as Head of the firm’s Contentious Trusts and Probate Team, who is based in Cambridge.
O’Neill joins Buckles from Knights, where she gained a strong reputation for her proactive approach to resolving commercial disputes. Fox, a Full Member of the Association of Contentious Trust and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS), joins from Ellisons Solicitors, where he led his team as the Head of Contentious Trusts and Probate.
Duncan Jackson, Chief Executive of Buckles commented: “These appointments demonstrate our determination to deliver on our ambitious growth strategy, which not only aims to attract high-quality clients but the talented individuals who help improve our offering.
“Developed over an impressive 25-year career, Phillippa brings a wealth of experience to her new role and a fresh perspective to lead our Dispute Resolution team. I believe our ability to recruit her to our business reflects our growing reputation and the market’s understanding of our potential.
“Ben is a leading contentious trusts and probate specialist. His experience and unrivalled knowledge will ensure we continue to deliver the first-class outcomes on which our reputation is built. After a significant new business win, we expect a significant increase in the contentious Trust and Probate work we undertake for the bank’s clients.
New Head of Commercial Dispute Resolution, Phillippa O’Neill, said of her appointment: “I have watched Buckles rise with interest. Given the recent client wins and new appointments strengthening the commercial side of the firm, the upward trajectory of the business made my decision to join a simple one.”
“It was clear from my first interactions with the senior team that Buckles’ ambition reflects my own and the firm is already delivering on its strategic growth plan. I have a good team, great connections in the area and I look forward to driving Buckles to another record year.”
Partner, Ben Fox, said: “I am delighted to join Buckles at such an exciting time as the firm expands its offering in its key target areas, one of which is Contentious Trusts and Probate.
“I am extremely excited to help Buckles expand its already really strong offering to clients for our Contentious Trusts and Probate services. With three Full Members of ACTAPS and a senior solicitor Buckles offers real depth of experience and expertise in this highly challenging and complex area of legal practice.”
