Member Article

Simpson Millar Bolsters Team With New Court of Protection Partner

Simpson Millar has announced the expansion of its Court of Protection team with the appointment of new Partner Gillian de Freitas.

With more than 15-years’ experience, she joins the growing firm having previously worked at Fieldfisher LLP where she established and headed up the Court of Protection team.

With particular expertise representing victims of medical negligence and personal injury – especially those involving complex acquired brain injuries – Gillian is also qualified to offer legal advice with regards wills, trusts and probate matters.

Joining the established, 10-strong Simpson Millar team in the firm’s London office as a Partner, she is also qualified to sit as a Barrister in the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court.

She is the latest in a string of senior hires for the business which last year announced that it was embarking on a 5-year, £50m growth strategy, which includes significant investment in its people, technology and marketing.

Gillian said: “I am delighted to be joining the Simpson Millar team.

“The launch of the firm’s recent ‘Open’ proposition – which is dedicated to ensuring that people can access the legal help and support they need in a clear and transparent way - is very much aligned to my own way of working, and an important aspect of Court of Protection work in particular, given the vulnerability of many of our clients.

“I am looking forward to working with the wider team to grow and expand our offering, and to contributing to the continued success of the business as it moves into a new era.”

Having studied at BPP School of Law, London, Gillian joined Irwin Mitchell as a Solicitor and Legal Local Authority Liaison Manager, before progressing her career with Penningtons Manches Solicitors where she was Professional Deputy Head of the Court of Protection Unit.

Commenting on her appointment Sarah Ryan, head of the firm’s Private Practice Area, said: “Our Court of Protection team has a well established and strong reputation across the country, providing specialist legal support to often vulnerable people on a day-by-day basis.

“The work involves helping our clients – who have diminished, or no mental capacity - to access the care and support they need, including rehabilitation services, case managers and care workers, financial advisors and asset managers.

“Not only does that provide them with much comfort and reassurance, but it also ensures that they are able to live as independently as possible.

“Gillian brings with her a wealth of experience and expertise that further adds to that offering; allowing us to help even more people across the country.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Alisha Griffiths .