Maclaren Warner Solicitors
At Maclaren Warner, our experienced team builds on a long-standing legacy of legal expertise, providing professional and personalised support from our offices in Eastwood and Ilkeston and across the surrounding areas.
As traditional law practices evolve, we put our clients first, guiding you through every step of the conveyancing process and ensuring divisions that meet your unique needs. Maclaren Warner, combining trusted experience with a forward-looking approach to deliver results you can rely on.
Services
Clear, transparent legal advice
Maclaren Warner is a trusted solicitors’ firm with deep roots in serving local communities from its offices in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, combining traditional values with a personalised, transparent approach to legal support. The firm focuses on clear communication, respect and client care, ensuring every case is handled with attention and integrity.
Maclaren Warner supports individuals, families and businesses with practical legal guidance tailored to their needs, drawing on extensive experience across a broad range of areas. While the team offers services from residential conveyancing to family and commercial matters, its priority remains providing responsive advice and trusted representation at every stage.
Team
The people behind the work
Martin Collins
Chief Executive Officer
During my career, I’ve had successes in both the PLC world and the SME sector as an owner-manager.
I’ve enjoyed the cut and thrust of challenges on the front line and have sat in negotiations around boardroom tables in the City, but my passion lies firmly with the SME sector.
I enjoy supporting and growing my own businesses, helping clients succeed, even when they don’t yet realise how successful they are.
I understand the importance of structured, organised businesses, while ensuring the drive and passion of the owner isn’t held back.
Experience allows me to help teams play to their strengths and support the rest, because the quality of advisors and support always makes the difference.
Paul Dodds
Head of Law
I qualified as a Solicitor in 2005 and have extensive experience across both law and business.
I am a former Head of Litigation and Dispute Resolution, and my practice has developed into a broad commercial offering, including a specialism in Sports Law.
I have acted for many well-known sports professionals alongside my commercial work.
I go beyond the traditional lawyer role and am considered a trusted adviser to high-net-worth individuals and SME owners.
I also provide hands-on support to businesses facing challenges, applying both legal and management expertise.
When not advising clients, my principal role is ensuring the practice maintains excellent service standards and robust compliance throughout.
Jo Hancock
Chief of Staff
During my career, I have worked across multiple industries in both the SME sector and Corporate PLCs, focusing on organisational efficiency, strategic planning, and project and change management.
As a Hospitality Management graduate, I began in the hotel industry and discovered a passion for strategy, problem-solving, and delivering excellent customer service.
Over the next ten years, I developed these skills as Operations Manager and Director across hospitality, commercial vehicles, and pharmaceutical services.
I then moved into Project and Change Management, leading projects including office builds, business relocations, global finance system implementations, and CRM rollouts.
My heart lies with SMEs, where I now oversee operations, strategy, and team performance to deliver outstanding client service.
Emma Robison
Chief Operating Officer
As a Graduate in Economics, I worked in London’s financial industry for several years, developing a strong understanding of commercial finance.
This experience, alongside qualifications in HR and Business Turnaround, has equipped me to support my clients effectively.
I focus on providing commercial finance divisions nationally, regardless of company size or status.
Over the years, I have built strong relationships with well-known funders and many that are less familiar, creating a network of lenders who understand our strengths.
My experience allows me to assist with straightforward funding requirements or provide guidance and divisions for the unusual, the complex, and every challenge in between.
Sarah Southall
Head of Conveyancing
I lead our conveyancing team with clarity, confidence, and a steady hand.
I’m the person you want in your corner when decisions need making, deadlines are tight, and keys are waiting to be handed over.
Known for a practical approach and calm under pressure, I keep transactions moving and clients reassured.
I communicate clearly, act decisively, and never let matters drift, even when the unexpected crops up, as it often does in conveyancing.
Clients trust me because I’m consistent, straight-talking, and always thinking one step ahead.
Whether it’s a first purchase or part of a wider property strategy, I ensure the legal process feels controlled from start to finish throughout.
Sally Smith
Head of Family Law
I am Head of the Family Law team at Maclaren Warner.
I qualified as a lawyer in 2021, following a successful career in management across industry and banking, which gave me a strong commercial background and a practical, client-focused approach.
I obtained my Higher Rights of Audience in 2023, extending my advocacy skills and ability to represent clients in court.
I advise on a wide range of family matters, including divorce, financial settlements, and arrangements for children.
I also support unmarried couples with cohabitation agreements, property disputes, and financial matters concerning children, and assist clients needing urgent protection through domestic abuse applications, including non-molestation and occupation orders when required.
Lisa Johnson
Conveyancer
I blend years of hands-on property experience with a calm, practical approach that helps clients feel at ease throughout their move.
Having worked across estate agency, mortgages, and insurance before specialising in conveyancing, I bring a unique, well-rounded perspective to every transaction.
I am known for being straight-talking, efficient, and approachable, someone who tells it like it is, while providing the reassurance and support clients need when navigating the property world.
I believe in cutting through jargon, staying proactive, and keeping matters moving without unnecessary drama.
Whether buying a first home or managing a chain, I am the steady voice keeping clients informed, reassured, and ready for the next step.
Kari Izdebski
Conveyancer
I am a Residential Conveyancer, providing a friendly, honest, and efficient service to my clients.
I enjoy building long-term relationships with returning clients, whether supporting them with purchasing their next family home or an investment property.
I strive to make clients feel at ease throughout the entire transaction. I particularly enjoy helping clients purchase New Build properties, having specialised in these in my previous role.
I understand that the information provided can be overwhelming, so I always break it down to ensure purchasers fully understand every detail.
My goal is to make the conveyancing process clear, manageable, and reassuring for every client I work with.
Rebecca King
Conveyancer
I am an experienced Residential Conveyancer, supporting clients with a wide range of property transactions, including sales and purchases, remortgages, transfers of equity, and company property matters.
I ensure every stage runs smoothly, guiding clients through what can often be a complex and stressful process. I handle freehold sales and purchases, transfers of equity, remortgages, and Help to Buy matters.
Known for my approachable and professional manner, I take the time to understand each client’s needs, offering clear, practical advice that builds confidence.
My attention to detail and proactive communication keeps clients informed, resolving any issues quickly.
I am committed to delivering a seamless, reassuring service from start to finish.
Abbey Broughton
Paralegal
I am a Family Paralegal at Maclaren Warner, with experience across a range of family law matters, including cohabitation disputes and TOLATA claims.
I hold a BA in English Literature and completed the MA Law (Conversion) at the University of Law, where I also sat the SQE1 exams.
My legal work is shaped by a well-rounded perspective, including time managing a busy coffee shop alongside my academic pursuits.
My approach to client work is empathetic and grounded in understanding, while remaining firm and resolute in advocating for fair outcomes.
I am committed to delivering clear, compassionate support through complex and emotionally charged legal matters.
Ashleigh Meredith
Paralegal
I am a Private Client Trainee Solicitor with a strong academic foundation, having completed both a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in Law.
I support clients with wills, probate, estate administration, trusts, and lasting powers of attorney, providing clear, practical advice with professionalism and empathy.
My training has strengthened my skills in legal research, drafting, and file management, supported by a meticulous approach to detail and compliance.
I take pride in delivering a high standard of client care and building trusted, long-term relationships.
I am committed to continuous professional development and motivated to build a long-term career within private client practice, maintaining integrity, discretion, and consistently high professional standards.
Natalie Layton
Paralegal
I am a Private Client Paralegal with a strong academic foundation and practical experience in wills, probate, and estate administration.
Having completed my law degree, I have developed a thoughtful and empathetic approach to supporting individuals and families through often sensitive and complex legal matters.
I assist clients with drafting wills, managing probate applications, and guiding them through the administration of estates with clarity and care.
My attention to detail and commitment to client service ensure each matter is handled efficiently and personally.
I am passionate about helping clients plan for the future and navigate key life decisions with confidence, offering clear, practical advice tailored to their circumstances.
Bharat Singh
Paralegal
I bring energy, precision, and a people-first approach to the conveyancing process.
As a dedicated Paralegal, I work behind the scenes to keep matters moving and make life easier for clients at every stage of their property journey.
Known for being responsive, detail-oriented, and one step ahead, I support sales, purchases, and transfers of equity with care and consistency.
I am often the first point of contact for updates and chase things up before clients even need to ask.
Clients and colleagues value my calm manner, sharp eye, and commitment to getting things right quickly and with minimal fuss.
Laura Neville
Paralegal
I am a key part of our conveyancing team, helping to keep property transactions running smoothly behind the scenes.
Starting at reception and progressing into a specialist support role, my journey through the firm reflects my focus, attention to detail, and commitment to doing things properly.
I see the whole picture, from first contact to final paperwork, and play an important role in ensuring clients feel looked after throughout.
Whether managing documents, preparing packs, or chasing up queries, I bring consistency, care, and a can-do attitude to everything I do, supporting both clients and colleagues every step of the way.
Harry Bradshaw
Legal Apprentice
I am a key member of our conveyancing team, providing all-round support across a range of property transactions.
With a calm, can-do attitude and a focus on problem-solving, I am always ready to help keep things moving, whether chasing updates, answering queries, or offering a helping hand behind the scenes.
Clients and colleagues appreciate my clear communication and practical mindset.
I understand that buying or selling a home can be overwhelming, so I make it my mission to reduce stress by staying responsive, reassuring, and divisions-focused.
I am dependable, approachable, and always willing to go the extra mile for both clients and the team.
Alex Bennett
Business Services Manager
I am an Organisational Development professional with experience in highly regulated environments, including responsibility for rail audits and compliance assurance.
I specialise in translating complex requirements into clear, practical ways of working that help people feel confident, supported, and able to perform at their best.
Now working within a legal services environment, I focus on meaningful data capture, operational insight, and continuous improvement, always grounded in day-to-day operations.
My strengths include people management, capability building, and creating accountable, psychologically safe teams.
I enjoy working collaboratively with leaders and frontline colleagues to build trust, clarity, and sustainable performance across the organisation.
Kathryn Fretwell
Legal Secretary
I bring a wealth of experience to our Residential Property team, having spent many years helping clients with all aspects of buying and selling homes to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
I understand the challenges people face when moving house and work to keep everything on track from start to finish.
Combining strong organisational skills with a practical mindset, I enable legal teams to focus on what matters most.
Known for anticipating needs and resolving issues quickly, I manage case files, draft letters and legal forms, coordinate with clients and third parties, track deadlines, and support teams to maintain accuracy, efficiency, and excellent client service throughout.
Sarah Mills
Legal Secretary
I help clients with all kinds of property transactions, bringing years of experience to ensure everything runs smoothly and is explained in a way that’s easy to understand.
I focus on keeping the process simple and stress-free for clients.
As a Legal Secretary, I bring precision and organisation to every case I support.
Known for being proactive and calm under pressure, I ensure correspondence, filings, and schedules run efficiently.
I prepare court bundles, manage case files and deadlines, liaise with clients and courts, and handle confidential information with care.
My clear communication and attention to detail make me an invaluable part of the legal team.
Sheryl Rigley
Legal Secretary
I am a longstanding member of our Property Team, working closely with and supervised by Simon Kassell to provide essential support in his conveyancing work.
My focus is on ensuring transactions run smoothly and that clients receive an efficient, stress-free service.
As a Legal Secretary, I am known for my friendly manner and ability to simplify complex processes for clients.
I thrive on keeping cases moving, ensuring every document is accurate and every deadline is met.
I combine technical know-how with a people-first approach, assisting with drafting correspondence, scheduling appointments, preparing documentation, maintaining compliance, and supporting solicitors with case progression, making me a trusted contact for clients and colleagues alike.
Emma Riley
Receptionist/Administrator
I am an Administrator with three years’ experience supporting daily operations in a legal services environment.
I play a key role in onboarding new clients, ensuring documentation is accurate, processes run efficiently, and clients receive a smooth and professional introduction.
Highly organised and detail-oriented, I manage multiple administrative tasks while maintaining confidentiality and high standards of service.
I am always willing to assist in other areas of the business, providing reliable support to colleagues and adapting to changing priorities.
Known for my proactive approach and strong work ethic, I am committed to contributing to the team’s success and the overall efficiency of the firm.
Claire Dibb
Chief Financial Officer
I have extensive experience providing CFO services to professional practices, working closely with law firms both alongside mainstream banks and in a consultancy capacity.
My background spans SMEs, start-ups, and corporate businesses, where I specialise in strategic financial management, process improvement, productivity and efficiency projects, and business turnarounds.
I am skilled in cashflow forecasting and management, management information and dashboards, business planning, financial analysis, and customer negotiations.
I also lead cross-functional projects and serve as a part-time or interim FD.
My financial and regulatory knowledge allows me to support both the firm and clients effectively, delivering insights, clarity, and actionable divisions that drive business performance and growth.
Jackie Howard
Group Compliance Manager
I am an experienced Compliance Officer and qualified Chartered Accountant with over 40 years in professional services.
I began my career at KPMG and have since gained expertise across accountancy, legal, financial advisory, and banking sectors.
My focus is always on reducing risk and ensuring regulatory compliance. As a leader, I guide teams through complex challenges, fostering integrity, accountability, and collaboration.
I am passionate about process improvement and mentoring others, helping to build strong, high-performing teams.
Outside of work, I enjoy reading, following both Arsenal football teams, and keeping fit, balancing my professional focus with personal interests.
Contact Us
Get in touch today to see how we can help
Please contact us by sending us an email us at [email protected] or give us a call on 0115 930 4994.
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