Experience and credentials
Shelby is a Trainee Solicitor in our Wills and Estate Planning team, based across our Blandford and Dorchester offices. She began her career with Blanchards Bailey in January 2022, starting as a legal secretary in our Residential Property team. After a year in Residential Property, Shelby moved into an assistant role, supporting our Private Client Services team for around 18 months. In August 2024, Shelby began her apprenticeship to qualify as a solicitor, working across Family Law, Litigation and Disputes and, most recently, within our Wills and Estate Planning team.
Shelby advises clients on Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, wider estate planning and Court of Protection applications, helping individuals and families put clear arrangements in place to protect their loved ones and future wishes. Her previous experience in this specific area of the law gives her a strong practical understanding of our clients' needs, as well as the importance of getting the details right.
Shelby holds a First-Class Honours law degree from Bournemouth University. She reports to Emma Needham, Partner and Head of Wills and Estate Planning.
Working with Shelby
Shelby is known for her empathetic and compassionate approach. She is approachable and supportive, helping clients feel at ease when discussing sensitive matters or concerns about putting their affairs in order.
Shelby enjoys the fast-paced nature of her role, meeting clients in person and building rapport and the reassurance that comes from ensuring clients' wishes can be followed, whether in life, after death or if capacity is lost in the future. Shelby works proactively and efficiently, collaborating closely with colleagues to ensure advice is tailored to each client's personal circumstances.