New managing partner for Lake Legal

Lake Legal has appointed Claire Glaister as managing partner as the specialist family law firm gears up for growth.

The firm will see founder Lyn Ayrton, who remains the senior partner, concentrate on strategic development and growing arbitration practice.

Alongside the management changes, the firm has made two new appointments. Brooke Dempsey, who originally joined the firm as a paralegal, is appointed as a newly qualified solicitor and Rhianna Cameron, who graduated from law school in 2021, is a paralegal.

Commenting on the developments, Claire said: “Lake Legal has grown to become a highly respected family law firm, and it’s thanks to our ability to recruit and retain the best talent. As we look forward to our next growth phase, it’s great to see young lawyers like Brooke and Rhianna developing their careers with us.

“I first worked with Lyn Ayrton over 20 years ago as a work experience student, and she has supported my career ever since that time. When I joined Lake Legal over 12 years ago, I knew that I was joining a unique law firm that is a great place to work.”

In the industry bibles, Chambers & Partners and Legal 500, Lake Legal has consistently been ranked in the top tier while Lyn and Claire are singled out for their expertise in family law. Lyn is one of only a handful of solicitors in the region qualified to arbitrate cases rather than clients having to resort to the court, which is an expensive and lengthy process.

Lyn Ayrton said: “It’s a proud moment for me to see Claire become managing partner, as we continue to grow and attract new talent to the firm. I set out to build a family law firm that put its people and clients first, and this approach continues to drive the firm forward.”

Lake Legal is celebrating 12 years as a niche legal practice. The firm has delivered double-digit growth every year for over a decade and earned widespread recognition for championing legal initiatives.

It operates nationally from its office in Leeds. It supports a range of charities across the region, from Leeds Community Foundation to Moor Allerton Bowls Club and Thackley AFC ladies team.