Blanchards Bailey LLP is pleased to begin the year by welcoming three highly experienced lawyers to the firm: Charlotte Parsons, Nicola Mitchell-Rodd and Rupert Knell. These appointments further strengthen our Private Client and Litigation and Disputes services, enhancing the support we provide to clients on matters affecting every aspect of their lives and businesses.
Based in Dorset and advising clients across the Southwest and beyond, Blanchards Bailey remains committed to delivering practical, client-focused service, whether clients are planning ahead, administrating an estate, or resolving a dispute with confidence and clarity.
Charlotte Parsons, Senior Associate – Private Client Services
Charlotte brings over 15 years’ experience in private client work, advising individuals and families on planning for the future and managing complex legal issues with reassurance and care. Her experience includes:
- Wills and estate planning
- Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Court of Protection applications
- Deputyships
- Estate administration
Charlotte is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (FCILEx), an Accredited Lifetime Lawyer, and a Dementia Friends Ambassador with the Alzheimer’s Society. She is recognised for her clear, practical advice and personal approach, combining technical expertise with empathy and understanding.
Nicola Mitchell-Rodd, Senior Associate- Contentious Probate and Trusts, and Property Disputes
Nicola joins as a Senior Associate in our Contentious Probate and Trusts team, bringing over 12 years’ experience in contentious probate and property litigation. Nicola is experienced in all aspects of Contentious Probate. She advises on all apsects of contentious probate, trusts and property disputes, including:
- Assessing the strengths and risks of claims at an early stage
- Developing strategy and preparing matters for settlement or court proceedings.
- Resolving matters through early alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods, such as mediation or arbitration, where necessary
She is a member of the Contentious Trust Association (ConTra) and the Association of Contentious Trusts and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS), reflecting her substantial post-qualification experience in this specialist area. Charlotte reports to Emma Needham, Partner and Head of Wills & Estate Planning.
Rupert Knell, Solicitor, Litigation and Disputes
Rupert is a Dorset-based litigation specialist who advises individuals and businesses on a wide range of disputes, with a focus on practical outcomes and commercially grounded solutions. His experience includes:
- Contentious property and commercial property disputes
- Agricultural land disputes
- Civil and commercial litigation
Paul Dunlop, Managing Partner of Blanchards Bailey LLP said: “The arrival of Charlotte, Nicola and Rupert is a testament to the firm’s commitment to providing a full spectrum of legal services that reflect the unique needs of our local community – whether families and individuals, local businesses or farm and landowners. This is another step towards our goal of delivering professional, tailored legal services that support and protect every part of our clients’ lives.”
https://blanchardsbailey.co.uk/