Clients can expect a highly experienced, efficient, and reassuring service when working with Linsey. As a Legal Assistant in the residential property department and a long-standing member of Nick Ritson’s team, Linsey brings over 31 years of experience at Pictons to every transaction. She ensures each matter is set up accurately and progresses smoothly from the very start.
Meet The Team
- Siobhan Rooney's Bio
Areas of Specialism
- Financial and children matters arising from divorce and separation
- Contentious probate
- Inheritance Act and estate-related claims
Key Experience
- Regularly advises members of the Armed Forces, Medical Professionals, and Police and Fire Service Personnel
- Extensive experience in multi-jurisdictional matters involving the United States, Dubai, Spain, France, Greece, Australia, and the Republic of Ireland
- Provides strategic support to Business Owners on complex issues arising from relationship breakdown
- Actively engages in Non-Court Dispute Resolution, including Pictons’ Divorce Together service
- Experienced in handling property disputes arising from disputes between co-owners.
Career & Qualifications
- Admitted as a solicitor in 2008
- Solicitor, Purcell Solicitors (2008–2010)
- Associate Solicitor, Pictons Solicitors (2010–2014)
- Partner, Pictons Solicitors (2014–present)
- Managing Partner, Pictons Solicitors (2025–present)
- Trustee, Active Luton (2012–2018)
- Trustee, Luton Irish Forum (2013–2020; 2022–present)
- Co-Chair, Luton Irish Forum (2025–present)
- Member of Resolution
- Recognised on Lady Baroness Hale’s Pro Bono List (2024, 2025)
- Contributor to the Luton Irish Forum’s receipt of the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (MBE-equivalent honour)
What clients can expect when working with Siobhan
Clients working with Siobhan can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. She is known for guiding clients through high-stakes and often emotionally charged situations with calm authority. As Managing Partner at Pictons Solicitors and an active contributor to pro bono and voluntary initiatives, Siobhan combines legal excellence with leadership and a commitment to her service.
- Deborah Saini's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Inheritance claims and contesting wills
- Claims involving problematic Executors
- Property and boundary disputes
- Commercial disputes
- Breach of contract
- Consumer matters
- Landlord and Tenant, commercial and residential
Key Experience- Acted in a problematic Executor dispute where a co-executor fraudulently sold an estate property, swiftly recovering damages for the client from the negligent firm involved.
- Proven track record of successfully recovering substantial corporate debts for a number of companies.
- Represented a professional businessman in a long-running tenant dispute, successfully defeating a landlord’s application to split the case and securing security for costs.
- Defeated numerous appeal attempts by the landlord, ultimately succeeding in having the entire case against the client struck out.
- Successfully defended a complicated damages claim brought by an Executor against a care home provider, strategically forcing the claimant to discontinue the case and pay the client’s costs.
Career & Qualifications- Admitted as a solicitor in 2004
- Solicitor, Batchelors (now part of Birketts) (2004)
- Joined Pictons Solicitors (2004)
- Head of Personal Injury Team, Pictons Solicitors (2014–2020)
- Head of Civil and Commercial Team, Pictons Solicitors (2020–present)
What clients can expect when working with DeborahClients working with Deborah can expect clear, practical, and realistic advice delivered with determination and sharp tactical insight. She is known for robustly fighting her client’s corner and guiding them through emotionally charged circumstances with calm authority. As Head of Civil and Commercial Team at Pictons Solicitors, Deborah combines legal excellence with leadership, clear communication, and an ability to think outside the box to deliver the best possible outcomes.
- Mark Feeney's Bio
Role at Pictons
Mark has been working with Pictons since 2017, advising the management team on finance and strategy, and more recently has been employed to become responsible for management information and forecasting.
Career to date
- Deloittes – Trainee ICAEW
- PWC – Manager
- Shoosmiths – Finance Director
- Russell Jones and Walker – CEO
- KSB Law – CEO
- Independent Management Consultant specialising in the Legal Sector
How does Mark support the Pictons’ Team?
Mark helps the senior team by bringing a financial and commercial approach based on a long and broad-based career specialising in the legal sector. He helps the business to plan forwards as well as implementing best practice in financial and commercial controls appropriate for a firm like Pictons. Mark also has extensive management experience within legal firms and helps with advising the senior team on many non-financial issues.
- Luke Luland's Bio
Role at Pictons
As the Practice Manager at Pictons, Luke is the director of the firm’s operational framework, financial administration, and strategic growth initiatives. He ensures systemic efficiency across all administrative and operational functions.
Career to date
Luke has over 13 years experiencing in the legal sector, with extensive knowledge of practice management, legal operations, and client service. Before joining Pictons Solicitors, he spent seven years as a Practice Manager overseeing the day to day running of a busy law firm and supporting legal teams to deliver an efficient and high-quality service.
Throughout his career, Luke has developed a strong understanding of law firm operations, with a focus on improving processes, supporting colleagues, and ensuring clients receive a professional and seamless experience. He is known for his approachable manner, attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards across every aspect of the practice.
What to expect when working with Luke
When collaborating with Luke, you can expect an unparalleled level of professionalism, precise organization, and strategic oversight. He proactively streamlines complex workflows and manages daily firm operations with absolute efficiency, allowing legal teams to perform at their highest level. Through clear communication and meticulous attention to detail, Luke establishes a reliable business infrastructure that consistently delivers seamless results for clients.
- Melanie Lawrence's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Freehold and Leasehold sales and purchases
- Building Safety Act and Shared Ownership transactions (including staircasing)
- Help to Buy borrowing and discharges
- First-time buyer and high-value property transactions
- Land acquisition, plot sales, and splitting of title
- First registrations and non-disputed possessory titles
- Option, Overage, and Auction agreements
- Property acquisitions as part of corporate sales
Key Experience- Acted for property developers in a £5 million Berkhamsted acquisition, successfully negotiating the removal of restrictions, splitting titles, and selling individual plots for over £2 million each.
- Maximised a client’s retirement asset by leveraging local market knowledge to challenge an initial £400,000 valuation, resulting in a corrected valuation of £1.2 million.
- Advises companies and developers on complex overage terms, land bank acquisitions, and purchases involving bridging finance.
- Successfully secured commercial SDLT rates on residential property transactions under the uninhabitable property rule.
- Prepares and reviews comprehensive auction packs for sellers, auctioneers, and prospective buyers.
- Regularly acts for clients on equity release matters, new-build plot purchases, and complex leasehold transactions.
Career & Qualifications- Qualified as a Legal Executive in Family Law (1999)
- Transitioned into Property Law (2001)
- Admitted as a solicitor (2006)
- Over 24 years of experience as a specialist conveyancing lawyer
- Extensive experience working across local firms in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and Buckinghamshire, as well as national law firms
What clients can expect when working with MelanieClients working with Melanie can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. She is known for guiding clients through complex, high-stakes property transactions with calm authority and a proactive approach. As an experienced property solicitor, Melanie combines legal excellence with an acute attention to detail, ensuring potential issues are anticipated early. She remains deeply committed to keeping transactions moving smoothly while fully protecting her clients’ interests from instruction to completion.
- Sarah Crook's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Wills and Trusts
- Powers of Attorney
- Probate and Administration of Estates
- Inheritance Tax and Estate Planning
Key Experience- Administers a wide range of estates, from modest non-taxable assets to multi-million-pound, cross-border estates involving contentious elements or defective Wills.
- Establishes lifetime trusts for strategic estate planning and drafts declarations of trust for complex property ownership.
- Advises on Inheritance Tax planning, including the strategic use of reliefs, exemptions, allowances, lifetime giving, and post-death variations.
- Collaborates closely with financial advisors to provide holistic wealth and estate planning solutions for clients.
- Structures highly complex Wills, including discretionary trusts, provisions for children from previous relationships, and trusts for vulnerable beneficiaries.
- Prepares and registers Lasting Powers of Attorney while advising on their practical use and navigating contentious family situations.
Career & Qualifications- Qualified as a Chartered Legal Executive (2010)
- Qualified as a full member of STEP (The Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners) (2015)
- Legal Executive, Osborne Morris & Morgan Solicitors (2002–2021)
- Associate, Pictons Solicitors LLP (2021–present)
What clients can expect when working with SarahClients working with Sarah can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. She is known for guiding clients through highly sensitive and emotionally charged estate matters with calm authority. As an Associate at Pictons Solicitors LLP and a highly qualified STEP member, Sarah combines legal excellence with a deeply structured approach. She supports a diverse clientele—including high-net-worth individuals, business owners, and modern blended families—ensuring their legacy and interests are robustly protected.
- Nick Ritson's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Residential property law
- Milton Keynes housing market transactions
- High-volume property sales and purchases
- Strategic conveyancing advice
Key Experience- Commands an extensive and successful history of residential property work within the Milton Keynes area, serving local clients continuously since 2002.
- Successfully built a highly regarded legal practice focused on exceptional service delivery, resulting in a business driven by strong client recommendations.
- Collaborates closely within a vibrant, highly skilled, and enthusiastic Residential Property Department to ensure seamless transaction management.
- Leverages over four decades of legal insight and deep regional market knowledge to navigate complex residential transactions with absolute precision.
Career & Qualifications- Admitted as a solicitor (1985)
- Specialised exclusively in residential property law (1996–present)
- Solicitor, Milton Keynes Area Practices (2002–present)
- Solicitor, Pictons Solicitors
What clients can expect when working with NickClients working with Nick can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. He is known for guiding clients through high-stakes housing transactions and the complexities of the local market with calm authority. As a dedicated solicitor within the Residential Property Department at Pictons Solicitors, Nick combines legal excellence with an exceptional level of personal service. His commitment to precise, efficient communication ensures a seamless, stress-free experience from instruction to completion.
- Zara Ahmed's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Divorce and separation
- Financial remedy proceedings
- Private children matters
- Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements
- Cohabitation disputes and TOLATA claims
- Domestic abuse and emergency protective measures
Key Experience- Represented a spouse in contested financial remedy proceedings involving multiple UK and overseas properties alongside disputed business interests, successfully negotiating a settlement outside of court.
- Advised a client in a complex private children matter involving serious allegations of domestic abuse, securing arrangements that prioritised the safety and welfare of the family.
- Acted for an unmarried client in a TOLATA claim concerning beneficial interests in a jointly owned property, resolving the dispute efficiently through negotiation to avoid court.
- Drafted a comprehensive pre-nuptial agreement for a high-net-worth individual, strategically protecting pre-acquired assets and family wealth prior to marriage.
- Assisted a client through high-stakes divorce proceedings, securing urgent non-molestation and occupation orders while simultaneously negotiating long-term financial safeguards.
Career & Qualifications- Specialised exclusively in family law (2021–present)
- Five years of dedicated experience in specialist family law practice
- Qualified Solicitor, Family Law Team, Pictons Solicitors LLP
- Actively participates in various pro bono opportunities to support the local community
What clients can expect when working with ZaraClients working with Zara can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. She is known for guiding clients through high-stakes and often emotionally charged relationship breakdowns with calm authority. As a dedicated Solicitor at Pictons Solicitors LLP and an active contributor to community pro bono initiatives, Zara combines legal excellence with a logical, approachable manner. She remains deeply committed to progressing matters efficiently, minimising unnecessary conflict, and tailoring her approach to secure the best possible outcome.
- Bleu Wildman's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Wills and estate planning
- Probate and administration of estates
- Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Private Client law
Key Experience- Advises a diverse range of clients on the strategic planning, preparation, and drafting of comprehensive Wills.
- Manages the smooth administration of deceased estates varying significantly in financial size, structure, and operational complexity.
- Guides clients through the preparation, registration, and practical operational execution of Lasting Powers of Attorney.
- Leverages intensive Private Client department training to deliver a technically precise foundation across all core estate matters.
Career & Qualifications- Graduated with a 2:1 Bachelor of Laws (LLB) in Law with Criminology from Nottingham Trent University (2023)
- Commenced formal legal training contract within a dedicated Private Client department (2023)
- Completed the Professional Skills Course at The University of Law (2025)
- Awarded a Master of Laws (LLM) and completed the Legal Practice Course (LPC) with Commendation from Nottingham Trent University (2025)
- Admitted as a qualified solicitor (January 2026)
- Joined the Wills, Trusts and Probate team at Pictons Solicitors
What clients can expect when working with BleuClients working with Bleu can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. She is known for guiding clients through deeply personal, high-stakes, and often emotionally charged estate matters with calm authority. As a Private Client Solicitor at Pictons Solicitors, Bleu combines a strong technical foundation with a focused, determined, and proactive approach. Her profound commitment to transparent, regular updates and active listening ensures that every case runs as seamlessly and reassuringly as possible.
- Austin Fashanu's Bio Areas of Specialism
- High-net-worth residential conveyancing and commercial property transactions
- Landlord and tenant disputes, asset protection, and regulatory compliance
- Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs), statutory regeneration, and land compensation claims
- Civil litigation, public law judicial reviews, and alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
Key Experience- Regularly advises estate developers on strategic land acquisitions, planning permissions, and Section 103 Agreements
- Extensive experience in cross-border advisory, providing legal guidance to corporate bodies on anti-corruption and anti-money laundering (AML) compliance under UK law
- Provides strategic support to private and corporate clients on complex leasehold extensions, enfranchisements, and auction acquisitions
- Actively engages in non-court dispute resolution, achieving successful out-of-court settlements in sensitive judicial review matters
- Experienced in handling property disputes, restrictive covenants, infrastructure agreements, and complex title investigations
Career & Qualifications- Called to the Bar of Nigeria in 1993
- Admitted as a solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 1999
- Trainee Solicitor, Akodu & Co. Solicitors (1995–1998)
- Solicitor & Management Committee Member, Abiloye & Co. Solicitors (1999–2002)
- Managing Partner, Fashanu & Co. Solicitors (2002–2009)
- Consultant, Afolabi Fashanu SAN & Co. (2009–2012)
- Senior Solicitor, David Vine and Co. Solicitors (2012–2013)
- Conveyancing Consultant, Trinity Solicitors (2014–2018)
- Commercial & Residential Property Consultant, Samuel & Co. (2018–2021)
- Residential Property Locum, Hunter’s Solicitors LLP (2021–March 2026)
- Member of the Law Society of England and Wales (Holds current practising certificate)
- Awarded LLM Master of Laws with Distinction and the Best Overall Student Award (2013)
What clients can expect when working with AustinClients working with Austin can expect comprehensive, strategic legal advice backed by over 30 years of dual-qualified expertise as both a barrister and solicitor. He is known for guiding clients through fast-paced, high-stakes property transactions and complex litigation with calm authority and sharp technical insight. Having served as a Managing Partner, practice supervisor, and designated SRA liaison, Austin combines exceptional legal excellence with leadership and a meticulous approach to risk mitigation and client care.
- Hugh Mulley's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Share and business sales and purchases
- Shareholders and joint venture agreements
- Corporate restructures
- Commercial agreements and standard terms of business
Key Experience- Over 20 years’ experience advising on multimillion-Pound transactions with an international dimension
- Provides practical guidance and strategic support to SMEs and family-owned businesses
- Extensive international legal experience, including 4 years working as a lawyer in the Middle East
- Expert advice on a broad range of company and commercial legal matters
Career & Qualifications- Qualified as a solicitor in 1990
- Gained a Diploma in Corporate Finance in 2005
- Worked at major London law firms
- Worked at a leading Home Counties law firm
- Consultant, Pictons Solicitors
What clients can expect when working with HughClients working with Hugh can expect practical, strategic advice backed by over two decades of commercial expertise. He is known for guiding businesses through complex corporate restructures and high-value transactions with calm authority. As a Consultant at Pictons Solicitors with extensive domestic and international experience, Hugh combines deep legal knowledge with a clear understanding of the unique needs of both major corporations and family-owned businesses.
- Robert Males's Bio Areas of Specialism
- General commercial matters
- Commercial and civil dispute resolution
- Employment law and workplace disputes
- Insolvency (contentious and international)
- Legal practice management and leadership
Key Experience- Commands extensive legal knowledge and strategic insight developed over 25 years of practice management experience.
- Acted on a number of high-profile, publicly reported cases, including a leading UK case regarding stress at work.
- Manages complex and contentious insolvency proceedings involving multi-jurisdictional and international issues.
- Regularly provides commercially pragmatic advice to corporate and private clients navigating high-stakes disputes.
Career & Qualifications- Awarded Bachelor of Laws (LLB Hons) from Bristol University
- Admitted as a solicitor (October 1989)
- Over 35 years of experience advising corporate and private clients
- Served as a Managing Partner for over 25 years
- Senior Consultant Solicitor, Pictons Solicitors
What clients can expect when working with RobertClients working with Robert can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. He is known for guiding clients through high-stakes, complex legal issues and contentious disputes with calm authority. Drawing on decades of leadership experience, including over 25 years as a managing partner, Robert combines exceptional legal excellence with commercial pragmatism. He is widely respected across the legal profession for his deep knowledge, practical approach, and unwavering commitment to delivering strong commercial outcomes.
- Oliver Richbell's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Commercial dispute avoidance and resolution
- Construction, sports, and hospitality sector disputes
- Commercial contract preparation and review
- Risk mitigation and contractual health checks
Key Experience- Commands extensive experience in helping businesses avoid recourse to the courts by resolving disputes prior to trial.
- Focuses a significant portion of his commercial practice on the specialist Construction, Sports, and Hospitality sectors.
- Utilises years of litigation experience to draft and review commercial contracts, ensuring clients contract with confidence.
- Actively provides regional businesses with the “benefit of hindsight beforehand” by identifying hidden contractual risks early.
Career & Qualifications- Private Practice Solicitor in London and Buckinghamshire (2005–2015)
- Founding Partner, The Dispute Avoidance and Resolution Partnership (2015–present)
- Consultant Solicitor, Pictons Solicitors (2022–present)
- Chairman, Wooden Spoon Bedfordshire (Charity)
- Trustee, Coats4Kids (Charity)
- Governor, Bedford Girls’ School
What clients can expect when working with OliverClients working with Oliver can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. He is known for guiding businesses through high-stakes contract negotiations and commercial disputes with calm authority. As a Consultant at Pictons Solicitors and a dedicated charity Chairman and Trustee, Oliver combines legal excellence with regional leadership and a profound commitment to his service. He prioritises client interests above all else, focusing entirely on resolving matters in the most cost-effective and time-efficient manner.
- Stoyan Radkov's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Patent prosecution and drafting
- Due diligence and validity assessments
- Oppositions and appeals
- Infringement opinions and international litigation
- Patent strategy and freedom to operate (FTO)
- Landscape analysis, licence drafting, and negotiations
Key Experience- Extensive private practice and commercial exposure within global pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and Novartis
- Rights of audience before the European Patent Office (EPO), UKIPO, and the Unified Patent Court (UPC)
- UK representative for the Patent Litigation Team at the European Patent Institute (EPI)
- Multi-lingual capabilities with fluency in Bulgarian and Russian, and a working knowledge of German
- Former Senior Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at Imperial College London specialising in Viral Oncology, EBV, and HIV
Career & Qualifications- First Class Honours degree in Microbiology, University of Reading
- PhD in Viral Oncology, Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research (Imperial College London)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Intellectual Property Law, Queen Mary & Westfield
- Fully qualified European Patent Attorney (Chemistry)
- Senior Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, Imperial College London
- UK Representative, European Patent Institute (EPI) Patent Litigation Team
What clients can expect when working with StoyanClients working with Stoyan can expect highly specialised, strategic guidance rooted in profound scientific and legal expertise. He is known for successfully navigating the full spectrum of global patent and intellectual property issues across both private practice and major corporate environments. Bringing elite credentials from institutions like Imperial College, Pfizer, and Novartis, Stoyan delivers sophisticated, multi-jurisdictional IP strategies with absolute precision and clarity.
- Sarah Hunt's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Residential conveyancing (sales and purchases)
- New-build plot purchases
- Shared ownership transactions and Housing Association plot sales
- Remortgages and transfers of equity
Key Experience- Acted for numerous purchasers on a high-volume, 250-unit residential development in Harlow constructed by Weston Homes.
- Represented private purchasers on a major residential development in Buntingford constructed by Fairview Homes.
- Collaborated closely with national Housing Associations to compile comprehensive development packs for subsequent private and shared ownership plot sales.
- Commands 10 years of specialist experience handling complex residential property matters, private plot transactions, and shared ownership purchases.
Career & Qualifications- Awarded a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree
- Completed the CILEX Advanced Diploma in Law and Practice
- Enrolled as a CILEX Trainee Lawyer
- Currently undertaking the CPQ (CILEX Professional Qualification)
- Property Executive, Residential Property Team, Pictons Solicitors
What clients can expect when working with SarahClients working with Sarah can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. She is known for guiding clients through the fast-paced and often emotionally charged conveyancing process with calm authority. As a dedicated Property Executive within the Residential Property team, Sarah combines legal excellence with absolute transparency. She takes immense pride in providing upfront, honest guidance to manage expectations effectively, remaining completely committed to delivering a seamless, high-quality service for every client.
- Roxana Bacauanu's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Private children law (child arrangements, relocation, and prohibited steps)
- Domestic abuse, non-molestation, and occupation orders
- Financial remedy proceedings and international family disputes
- TOLATA claims and cohabitation disputes
- Emergency without-notice and enforcement applications
Key Experience- Manages high-stakes divorce, civil partnership dissolutions, and complex financial remedy cases featuring both UK-based and international elements.
- Prepares and progresses urgent, contested non-molestation and occupation order applications, drafting robust and persuasive supporting statements.
- Handles extensive Children Act 1989 matters, including sensitive child arrangements, prohibited steps, and specific issue applications.
- Resolves complex international children cases, specifically managing cross-border relocation applications and child abduction matters.
- Drives contested family litigation from instruction to resolution, managing a substantial fee-earning caseload alongside supervising solicitors and counsel.
- Navigates TOLATA disputes, cohabitation breakdowns, and property beneficial interest issues utilizing strategic Deeds of Settlement.
Career & Qualifications- Level 3 Diploma in Law and Practice (Specialism in Family Law) and Level 6 Client Care Skills unit
- Over 14 years of dedicated family law experience, including six and a half years at international firm Healys LLP in London
- Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx), working towards full qualification as a Chartered Legal Executive Lawyer
- Family Litigation Executive, Pictons Solicitors (Joined in 2018)
- Fluent Romanian speaker with conversational French, supporting domestic and cross-border clientele
What clients can expect when working with RoxanaClients working with Roxana can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. She is known for guiding clients through high-stakes and emotionally charged family litigation with calm authority and a results-driven mindset. Backed by over 14 years of specialist experience, Roxana combines legal excellence with tight file management and a proactive approach to case preparation. She is robust and fearless in advancing her clients’ interests, exercising sound tactical judgment to deliver practical, decisive problem-solving and secure the best possible outcomes.
- Emilia Mehra's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Complex and simple Wills
- Lifetime trusts and trusts in Wills
- Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Declarations of trust and Deeds of Gift
- Probate and complex, tax-bearing estates
- Court of Protection applications
Key Experience- Drafts and prepares tailored Wills, ranging from straightforward documents to highly complex testamentary structures.
- Advises on and establishes lifetime trusts alongside strategic declarations of trust for asset management.
- Guides clients through the preparation, registration, and long-term administration of Lasting Powers of Attorney.
- Formulates precise gifting advice and drafts formal Deeds of Gift to facilitate compliant wealth transmission.
- Assists with detailed probate administrations, including matters involving Inheritance Tax and multifaceted estate structures.
- Prepares comprehensive Court of Protection applications to protect vulnerable individuals and manage client welfare.
Career & Qualifications- Formally joined the Private Client department as a Trainee Solicitor (2025)
- Specialises in Wills, Trusts, and Probate law
- Developing a robust technical foundation across estate administration and protective legal frameworks
- Trainee Solicitor, Pictons Solicitors
What clients can expect when working with EmiliaClients working with Emilia can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. She is known for guiding clients through highly sensitive and emotionally charged estate planning and probate matters with calm authority. As a Trainee Solicitor in the Wills, Trusts and Probate team at Pictons Solicitors, Emilia combines a detail-focused, methodical approach with an approachable communication style. Her dedicated focus ensures that clients feel completely informed, supported, and reassured at every single stage of their legal journey.
- Grace Roe's Bio
Area of Specialism
I am on the Wills, Trusts and Probate team.
Key Experience
I advise clients on a wide range of private client matters, including the preparation of simple wills and more complex wills incorporating trusts. I also have experience in probate administration, assisting with estates of varying complexity, as well as advising on and preparing Lasting Powers of Attorney and Declarations of Trust.
Career and Qualifications
I qualified as a Graduate Solicitor Apprentice and have developed my experience within well-regarded firms including Pictons Solicitors LLP and Morgan and Wiseman Solicitors. I hold an LLB (Hons) in Legal Practice and Skills and have successfully completed SQE1. My training has provided me with a strong technical foundation alongside valuable hands-on experience in private client work.
What clients can expect when working with Grace
Clients can expect a friendly, approachable and time-efficient service when working with Grace. She prides herself on clear communication and keeping matters progressing smoothly, while ensuring clients feel supported throughout the process. Grace stays up to date with recent legal developments, including evolving areas such as digital assets, enabling her to provide modern, forward-thinking advice with confidence.
- Sarah Kane's Bio Areas of Specialism
- Wills, trusts, and estate planning
- Probate and comprehensive estate administration
- Inheritance Tax (IHT) planning and allowances
- Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)
- Family law and domestic relations support
Key Experience- Drafts and customises Wills to reflect precise asset distribution wishes and ensure the secure appointment of executors.
- Advises on Inheritance Tax planning, determining tax liabilities, and utilizing bare, discretionary, and life-interest trusts to protect wealth.
- Prepares and registers Lasting Powers of Attorney to safeguard decision-making capacity for future healthcare and financial matters.
- Manages full estate administrations, including valuing property and investments, identifying liabilities, and settling outstanding debts.
- Prepared Grant of Probate applications and comprehensive estate accounts, ensuring tax compliance and accurate beneficiary distributions.
- Leverages a multi-disciplinary legal background to deliver highly comprehensive, cross-departmental client services.
Career & Qualifications- Over 25 years of specialist experience across numerous legal departments and office locations
- Extensive practical history within both the Family Law and Private Client departments
- Senior Legal Assistant, Wills, Trust and Probate Department, Pictons Solicitors
- Establishes and runs a monthly pro bono legal clinic at the Luton Irish Forum to provide free advice to community members
What clients can expect when working with SarahClients working with Sarah can expect clear, strategic advice delivered with empathy and expertise. She is known for guiding clients through highly sensitive estate planning and emotionally charged bereavement processes with calm authority. As a senior, “home-grown” Legal Assistant with over 25 years of trusted service at Pictons Solicitors, Sarah combines exceptional legal excellence with a friendly, compassionate approach. Her commitment to the firm and community ensures that clients feel completely supported, reassured, and professionally cared for at every stage.
- Aoife Mcmorrow's Bio
Role at Pictons
As the Business Development and Marketing Manager, my role focuses on driving growth through lead generation campaigns, active data tracking, and managing digital platforms. I am are also responsible for structuring professional networks, optimizing marketing workflows, and leading internal staff initiatives to foster a collaborative, high-performance culture. I joined Pictons Solicitors in September 2025.
Career to date
I came into the firm with 6 years of marketing experience in Advertisement and Content Creation, 1 year experience in Business Marketing, and 1 year experience in sports community marketing. I joined Pictons Solicitors in 2025 as a Client Services Co-Ordinator, to be a first point of contact for our clients in the initial stages of their journey. I then started my role as Business Development and Marketing Manager in 2026.
What to expect when working with Aoife
When connecting with Aoife, clients and professional partners can expect a strategic, proactive manager who ensures their firm’s initiatives run seamlessly. She brings creativity, reliability, and clear communication to every event and networking opportunity, ensuring external collaborations are meaningful and productive.
- Mary Ward's Bio
Role at Pictons
I work in the Accounts department as an Accounts Assistant. I joined Pictons in September 2001. I am Association of Accounting Technicians qualified, having achieved level 4 in 2000.
Key Experience
- Client Account – Processing payments in and out
- Actioning Completions
- Issuing Invoices
- Answering queries from colleagues
- Residual Client Balances
- Taking calls from clients and suppliers
- Keeping various spreadsheets up to date daily/monthly
- Interest Calculation Requests
- Client Bank Reconciliations
How does Mary support the Pictons team?
Mary brings both technical expertise and deep organisational knowledge to her work as an Accounts Assistant. She ensures the smooth running of client accounts and is a go-to person for colleagues, Her attention to detail, reliability, and willingness to help others make her a vital support to the wider team and contribute significantly to the efficient operation of the firm.
- Vanessa Haynes's Bio
Area of Specialism
I work in the Conveyancing Department, as part of Nick Ritson Team. Nick and I have worked together for over 20 years specialising in residential conveyancing to include freehold, leasehold and shared ownership. I have an excellent knowledge of property matters and the property market in the area surrounding our offices.
Key Experience
My support for clients is varied and includes; sending out contract packs, liaising with clients, solicitors and lenders on the phone and by email, facilitating exchange of contracts and the completion process and registration requirements following completion.
What clients can expect when working with Vanessa
Clients can expect Vanessa to keep their property transactions, stress free and straight forward by being approachable and communicating with them to ease any concerns during the process.
- Linsey Collacott's Bio
Area of Specialism
I am a Legal Assistant in residential property and I am part of Nick Ritson’s team.
Key Experience
I have worked at Pictons for 31 years. I deal with the initial onboarding process and serve as the first point of contact for clients, assisting them with completing initial documentation, verification of identity, and verification of source of funds. This also includes opening of files, requesting draft contracts, and submitting searches.
What clients can expect when working with Linsey
- Theo Harries-Kendall's Bio Area of specialism
I am a legal assistant in the residential property department, and I am part of Sarah Hunt’s team.Key experience
As a legal assistant for the residential property team, I act as the first point of contact for clients and strive to provide a friendly and efficient service. I am also responsible for the facilitation of the onboarding process—including the completion of initial documentation, verification of identity and source of funds, and opening new case files—ensuring that clients are kept informed every step of the way.Career and Qualifications
I graduated from the University of Portsmouth in May 2024 and achieved a 1st Class Honours Degree in Criminology and Forensic Studies. Following this, I worked for a year as a caseworker for a high street law firm in Aylesbury. I joined the Pictons team in June 2026.What clients can expect when working with Theo
Clients can expect a friendly, organised, and efficient experience when working with Theo. As a legal assistant in the residential property department, Theo ensures that the onboarding process is handled seamlessly and that clients are communicated with throughout, guaranteeing that they feel assured and confident in the service the firm provides. With prior experience at another firm, Theo brings a customer-focused approach and professionalism, and he is committed to providing an attentive and reliable service to every matter he supports.
- Charlotte Belton's Bio
Area of Specialism
I am a legal assistant in the Wills, Trusts and Probate team.
Experience
I help support the department with their workload, and I am the first point of contact for clients as I handle the onboarding process. I additionally deal with the Will releases for the firm. in 2026, i began my training in Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney.
Career and qualifications
I began my career at Pictons in September 2025. This is following the completion of my History and Politics Degree from the University of Warwick.
What clients can expect when working with Charlotte
Clients can expect a friendly, organised and supportive experience when working with Charlotte. She ensures the onboarding process is handled smoothly and efficiently. Charlotte prioritises keeping clients informed and at ease from the outset. Having begun her training in Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney in 2026, she is committed to developing her knowledge and providing a reliable, attentive service throughout each stage of a client’s matter.
- Tia Eeley's Bio
Area of Specialism
I am a legal assistant in the residential property department, and I am part of Melanie Lawrence’s team.
Key Experience
I am one of the primary contacts for you once you have instructed us, and I aim to provide a seamless and friendly service during onboarding and beyond to all clients, whether you know a lot or a little about the process of buying or selling your house.
Career and Qualifications
I graduated from the University of Northampton in May 2025 and joined the Pictons team in September 2025.
What clients can expect when working with Tia
Clients can expect a friendly, organised, and supportive experience when working with Tia. As a legal assistant in the residential property department and a key member of Melanie Lawrence’s team, Tia is often one of the primary points of contact from the moment clients instruct the firm. She is committed to providing a seamless onboarding process and clear communication throughout, ensuring clients feel informed and at ease whether they are first-time buyers or experienced in property transactions. Tia brings up-to-date knowledge, enthusiasm, and a client-focused approach to every matter she supports.
- Erin Cope's Bio
Area of Specialism
I am a Legal Assistant in the Wills, Trusts and Probate team.
Experience
I work closely with my other colleagues across the department, supporting a broad range of maters including Probate and Estate Administration, Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney.
Career and Qualifications
Alongside my role at Pictons, I am currently completing my LLB (Hons) Law degree with The Open University.
What clients can expect when working with Erin
Clients can expect a friendly, organised and supportive experience when working with Erin. As a legal assistant in the Wills, trusts and probate team, Erin understands that many matters arise during significant moments in people’s lives, and she aims to make the process as straight forward and reassuring as possible. She believes in keeping client’s informed, responding promptly to queries and providing a reliable service with care, empathy and attention to detail from the first point of contact through to the conclusion of their matter.
- Mahfuza Sultana's Bio
Area of Specialism
Mahfuza is a Legal Assistant in the Family Team.
Experience
As one of your main points of contact, Mahfuza is here to make the family law process as straightforward and comfortable as possible. She understands that family law matters can be sensitive and challenging, and is committed to providing a friendly, supportive service while keeping you informed and guided every step of the way.
Career and Qualifications
Mahfuza graduated from the University of Hertfordshire with her Master of Law and Legal Practice Course in December 2022. She then went on to work as the Co-Ordinator for Hertfordshire Law Clinic for three years, where she gained extensive experience supporting clients and managing a busy legal clinic. Alongside this, she has and is continuing to serve as a Special Constable with the Metropolitan Police Service, developing valuable experience in communication, problem solving and working with people from a wide range of backgrounds. Mahfuza joined the Pictons team in 2026.
What clients can expect when working with Mahfuza
Clients can expect a friendly, approachable and supportive service when working with Mahfuza. She understands that family matters can be personal and require careful consideration, so she takes the time to listen, explain things clearly and keep clients informed throughout their matter. Her aim is to make the legal process as straightforward as possible while ensuring every client feels supported and confident in the advice and assistance they receive.