New head for expanding law firm

Award-winning law firm Blanchards Bailey LLP has announced that, as of 1 September 2020, Paul Dunlop, Head of Litigation and Disputes, will be the firm’s newly appointed Managing Partner. Paul succeeds Alan Horne, who will assume the role of Finance Partner and remain a member of the Management Board, along with Jerome Dodge, Head of Private Client. Paul, who joined Blanchards Bailey in 2013, said: “I am honoured to have been made Managing Partner and will strive to ensure that the firm’s upward progression remains uninterrupted. “I certainly have a hard act to follow in Alan, who has been crucial in the formation and success of Blanchards Bailey as it is today. “This reorganisation is part of the firm’s long-term strategic plan, which has already seen investment in the latest IT software, new VOIP telephone system, development of staff and key appointments and promotions. “For instance, Partner Robin Cole, who has 30 years’ experience in Commercial Property and Development law, most of which was spent working in top City of London law firms, has been appointed to Head of Commercial Services.” Paul added: “Robin has made himself invaluable to the development of the firm’s commercial property and development offering to our clients. His commercial experience is unparalleled in the region and we are delighted to have him heading up our commercial team.” “The Firm’s key goal is, and always has been, to deliver excellent proactive legal advice to our clients. We will continue to strive for excellence and will continue to instigate more improvements to bolster the quality and variety of services available to clients.” Paul has already had an eventful year, being re-elected for a second year to the prestigious office of President of the Dorset Law Society, the professional association that represents and governs solicitors for England and Wales. He has also become a father for the first time to a beautiful baby girl, Penelope Meredith Jane Dunlop, possibly a solicitor in the making. Paul says: “The Civil Procedure Rules are great bedtime reading, she soon drifts off.” Blanchards Bailey will also shortly be announcing its chosen charity for the year ahead. The firm’s staff fund-raise for charity as part of its commitment to supporting the community, even in these difficult times.