Member Article

Law firm ends year with new appointments

Midlands law firm Higgs & Sons has further strengthened its team with the appointment of an additional Partner and a new Associate.

Craig Ridge joins the business as a Partner in the Dispute Resolution team, bringing with him more than 20 years’ litigation experience with specialisms in contentious wills, trusts and probate, while Michelle Weaver joins as an Associate in the Private Client team.

Craig began his training contract at FBC Solicitors in 2000, qualifying in 2002 before being made Partner in 2008.

Having attended schools in Halesowen and Hagley, Craig has a deep-rooted knowledge of the area and the local community, and is relishing the opportunity to support Higgs’ litigation offering.

He said: “I am extremely pleased to join Higgs & Sons, a firm renowned throughout the Midlands for its ambition and vision. I am very much looking forward to adding value to our existing client base as well as looking to the acquisition of new clients.”

Head of Dispute Resolution, Julia Lowe, said: “We are delighted to welcome Craig who will play a crucial role leading the team dealing with high value and complex disputes surrounding wills, estates and trusts.

“At Higgs we take pride in continually adding strength to our departments, and Craig’s appointment reinforces our strategy to enhance the service we offer to clients. He will be a great addition to the team.”

Michelle started her legal career with the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) in the family section at Wolverhampton Combined Courts before joining the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) in 2011 where she advanced to the position of Senior Lawyer. In 2018 Michelle obtained her Higher Rights for Criminal and Civil Proceedings.

Michelle is joining from OPG - a government body in England and Wales that, within the framework of the Mental Capacity Act 2005, protects and helps people stay in control of decisions about their health and financial affairs.

She said: “I am really keen to help continue to grow the Court of Protection team, using my expertise and knowledge in this area to provide advice tailored to the needs of individuals who may be going through a difficult time.”

Lucy Obrey, Head of Private Client, said: “We continue to see a strong demand for advice around all aspects of capacity including lasting powers of attorney which are essential in planning for the future and ensuring your wishes and best interests are protected.

“Michelle’s strong academic credentials and extensive knowledge of civil law and court processes will be a real asset to Higgs, our clients and their families as we advise them in these key areas. We are delighted to have her on board.”

Out of work, Craig’s hobbies and interests include sport, particularly rugby union, and his two young daughters who he says take up most of his time. Michelle loves to travel and aims to visit at least three different countries a year. As an adrenaline junkie she enjoys skydiving and says the best to date was a dive over the sea in Fiji.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sam Taylor .