Regional law firm Gardner Leader has revealed a strong period of expansion, having welcomed 21 new professionals across its seven office locations – reflecting a 9.7% rise in headcount since the start of the year.

The firm now employs over 191 staff members, with recent additions including Senior Associates Luchia Hirst, Charlotte Fox, and Rosie Deller. Also joining the team are Associates Amanda Collins and Annabelle Randell, along with Solicitor Kezia Brown. In addition, Lynsey Smith has been appointed as a Partner within the Dispute Resolution department.

Luchia Hirst, now based in Gardner Leader’s Wills, Probate and Estate Planning team in Swindon, brings more than 10 years of legal experience. Previously at Goughs Solicitors, she is well-versed in administering both straightforward and complex estates, preparing Lasting Powers of Attorney, and drafting Wills.

Luchia said: “Gardner Leader has a strong reputation for handling sensitive matters with care, compassion, and clarity. Supporting both individuals and families and helping them reach constructive solutions is incredibly important to me, I’m proud to be part of a team that truly reflects those values.”

Private Client Senior Associate, Charlotte Fox joins the firm’s Wills, Probate & Estate Planning team in Thatcham. After spending a decade at Barrett and Co Solicitors, Charlotte specialises in administering complex, high net worth Estates both in the UK and internationally, advising Executors on inheritance tax implications, preparing Wills that optimise tax-free allowances, and guiding clients on their duties under a Power of Attorney.

Charlotte said: “I was drawn to Gardner Leader’s strong regional presence and its people-first culture. There’s a real emphasis on both client care and team collaboration. I’m looking forward to contributing to a firm that values both tradition and innovation in equal measure.”

Partner, Lynsey Smith and Associates, Annabelle Randell and Amanda Collins, and Solicitor Kezia Brown all join the firm’s Dispute Resolution team, from IBB Law, Moore Barlow and Allan Janes respectively.

Gardner Leader has been at the heart of the Thames Valley community for over 130 years. With offices in Newbury, Maidenhead, Thatcham, Oxford, Swindon, Windsor and London, the firm has more than tripled in size over the last 10 years, expanding across the South of England. Its highly experienced team of legal professionals work across six specialist teams each dedicated to providing services to businesses and to individuals.

Derek Rodgers, Managing Partner at Gardner Leader, said: “Over the last five years we have made incredible progress in cementing our position as one of the leading law firms across the south of England. A part of this strategy has been to attract and retain some of the UK’s leading legal experts, as well as providing plenty of opportunity for aspiring talent.

“Our commitment to our clients includes delivering extraordinary service, advice and peace of mind; this is unwavering and as important as ever to us. It’s fantastic to welcome Lynsey, Luchia, Charlotte, Amanda, Annabelle, Kezia and the rest of this years’ new starters to the Gardner Leader team. We’re looking forward to seeing how their expertise will help shape the work we deliver in the coming months and years.”