SWANSEA | MUMBLES | PORTHCAWL | CARDIFF | 01792 65 00 00
At DJM, we take a fresh approach to law. We have recently passed our 70th year of providing modern, jargon-free advice to a national customer base.
Our straightforward approach has helped us become one of the largest law firms in Wales. Our efficient, cost effective legal advice from a team of straight-talking experts means we are capable of taking on any legal problem.
Were friendly, informal, but always professional. Speak to us now about how we can help.
DJM is made up of a team of specialists and experts on hand to provide you with the advice you need. Take a look at our legal team and learn a little more about us.
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Email: sma@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656519
Year joined DJM:2012
Qualifications:Sheraz graduated with a First Class Honours degree in Law in 2003.
Specialist Area:Corporate & CommercialPrior to joining DJM Sheraz was previously with a large Commercial firm based in Cardiff and has dealt with an extensive corporate client base situated both in the UK and internationally. Sheraz has been involved in transactions of varying size and complexity.During his career to date Sheraz has dealt with numerous acquisitions, disposals, MBO’s, investments, share schemes, restructures, shareholder agreements, partnership agreements, LLP agreements and commercial agreements. Sheraz also has vast experience in dealing with medical and health-care organisations.Legal 500 describes the Corporate and Commercial team at Douglas-Jones Mercer as “Commercially astute” and that it provides an ‘exemplary level of service’. Its expertise covers a range of corporate and commercial matters, including M&A, share schemes, shareholder agreements and partnership agreements. ‘Tenacious’ and‘pragmatic’ team head Sheraz Akram is ‘able to grasp key points of complex matters very quickly’ and provides ‘prudent and balanced’ advice to clients including Dawn Meats Group and Dawnus Group.
Interests:Spending time with family, motorcycling, cycling, football, boxing and travel
Email: laa@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656520
Year joined DJM:2010
Qualifications:Laura graduated from Cardiff University with a Law Degree LL.B (Hons) 2:1 in 2008. Laura then completed the Legal Practice Course in 2009 at Swansea University and passed with Distinction. Laura then joined the firm in 2010 as a paralegal in our Dispute Resolution and Commercial department before qualifying into the department in March 2013.In January 2017, Laura was appointed as an Associate Director.In July 2018 Laura was registered as a member of the Association of Contentious Trusts and Probate Specialists (ACTAPS), being one of only 3 solicitors in Swansea who have been appointed and 12 in South West Wales.Laura was approached by and has joined the Lexis Nexis panel of experts for commercial litigation and will feature regularly on the national bulletin of case updates.
Specialist Area:Laura has experience of dealing with a wide range of commercial disputes, including contract matters, joint ventures, partnerships, construction and professional negligence. Laura has developed a specific specialism in the area of contentious probate and trusts and has been recognised in the Legal 500 (2017 edition) as having “built up considerable experience in relation to contentious probate matters”.Laura acts in a wide variety of probate and trust claims and disputes, and focuses on providing clients with specialist, practical and commercial advice. Laura receives instructions from personal representatives, trustees, beneficiaries and other interested beneficiaries and regularly represents both claimants and defendants in the following types of claim;• Proceedings under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975 for reasonable financial provision;• The validity of wills on the basis of improper execution, testamentary capacity, lack of knowledge and approval, undue influence and fraud;• The validity of trusts on the basis of lack of capacity, lack of knowledge and approval, undue influence and fraud;• Challenging semi/half secret trusts within wills;• Rectification of wills;• Donatio Mortis Causa claims;• Disputes relating to assets transferred prior to death;• Disputes between beneficiaries and personal representatives;• Applications to remove/substitute personal representatives and trustees;• Actions against personal representatives and trustees for breach of fiduciary duty;• Caveats, warnings and appearances together with applications to remove permanent caveats;• Professional negligence claims relating to the improper drafting of wills/trusts including claims by “disappointed beneficiaries” under the principal of White v Jones [1995];• Contentious and non-contentious applications to the Court of Protection, including being appointed as a litigation friend in respect of an application for a statutory will; • Claims relating to constructive and resulting trusts; and• Applications for orders for sale on behalf of personal representatives; and• Burial disputes.
Interests:Outside DJM, Laura’s interests include singing, walking, socialising and travelling.
Email: jdb@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656529
Year joined DJM:2011
Qualifications:Jenna graduated with an LLB Hons Degree from Swansea University in 2008 and successfully completed the LPC with Cardiff University in 2013.
Specialist Area:Jenna is a Solicitor in the Commercial Property team working with both large corporate firms from throughout the UK and smaller local based businesses, and individuals in relation to the acquisition and sale of their residential properties.
Interests:Jenna enjoys socialising with friends and family, keeping fit and skiing
Email: elb@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656514
Qualifications:Elaine is a qualified Paralegal and became a Fellow of the Institute of Paralegals in 2012.
Specialist Area:Elaine is a Paralegal within the Estates and Trusts Department and assists with all areas of private client matters including: - preparation of Wills, Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection applications; assisting with the Administration of Estates and managing client affairs together with assisting with the preparation of trusts. She is supervised by Jonathan Powell, a Solicitor and Head of the Estate and Trusts Team.
Interests:Spending time with the family, keeping fit and socialising.
Email: alc@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 304092
Year joined DJM:2013
Qualifications:Graduated from Cardiff University with a Law degree LLB Hons 2:1 in 2011 and then completed the Legal Practice Course in 2013 at Swansea University.
Specialist Area:Amy is a qualified Solicitor who is based permanently in our Mumbles Office. Amy specialises in all areas of Private Client work, including Wills, Probate and Estate Planning as well as Power of Attorney and Court of Protection matters. Amy also deals with all aspects of Residential Property including buying, selling, re-mortgaging, transfers, new builds and leasehold properties. She is supervised by Jonathan Powell, a Solicitor and Head of the Estate and Trusts team for Estate Administration and by Helen Kelly, a Solicitor and Head of Residential Property for property matters. When it comes to both her private client and property work, Amy is very passionate about her clients having the best quality advice and will always do her best to deal with client’s affairs in a practical and straightforward way.
Interests:Amy enjoys playing netball, going to the gym, travelling and socialising with friends and family.
Email: jmc@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656526
Fluent Welsh speaker
Year joined DJM:Rejoined in 2013
Qualifications:Jonathan joined DJM solicitors as a trainee solicitor in September 2007 and subsequently qualified as a solicitor in September 2009 while a member of the private client department.Jonathan graduated from the University of Wales, Aberystwyth with a Law Degree LL.B (Hons) 2:1 in 2005. Following graduation Jonathan spent a year working as a paralegal/case worker with a firm of Solicitors in Llanelli. The following year he successfully completed the Legal Practice Course at the University of Wales, Swansea. Jonathan is also a student member of STEP (the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) having obtained a distinction in the foundation course examination in 2012. Time and work permitting, Jonathan hopes to complete the STEP diploma within the next few years so that he can become a full member.
Specialist Area:Jonathan joined a local firm of solicitors in January 2010 where he specialised in the drafting of Wills and Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection applications and general legal advice to elderly clients. He is supervised by Jonathan Powell, a Solicitor and Head of the Estate and Trusts Team. Jonathan re-joined the private client department of DJM solicitors in September 2013.
Interests:Outside DJM, Jonathan enjoys all forms of sport but particularly rugby. He currently plays as a back row forward for Morriston RFC and the Wales Deaf Rugby Union who are reigning deaf rugby world champions.
Email: hec@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 650000
Qualifications:Hannah graduated from Cardiff University with a Law degree LLB Hons 2:1 in 2012. Hannah then completed the Legal Practice Course in 2013 at Cardiff University and passed with a distinction.
Specialist Area:Hannah joined the firm in 2013 as a paralegal and is now a Solicitor in our Commercial Property department.
Interests:Hannah enjoys exercise, in particular yoga and walking and also enjoys cooking, socialising and travelling.
Email: bjd@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656532
Year joined DJM:Re-joined 1999
Qualifications:ACCA, FMAAT
Specialist Area:Practice Management – Barry is responsible for the management of the Firm and has been a member of the firms’ Board of Directors since April 2010.He was appointed an advisory Committee member of the Law Society Law Management Section in March 2015. He is also a regular columnist for Legal Practice Management magazine and has contributed to articles in the Law Society Gazette and other legal press.He frequently delivers training on financial compliance updates and the Solicitors Regulation Authority Professional Skills Course.He is also a Trustee Director of the Monmouth Building Society Charitable Foundation.He is a qualified Accountant and member of the Association of Chartered Accountants and a Fellow Member of the Association of Accounting Technicians.In 2018 he became a qualified Mental Health First Aid (Wales) trainer.
Interests:Barry is a keen follower of local football, and enjoys spending time with his young daughter.
Email: erd@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656544
Year joined DJM:2017
Qualifications:Eleri graduated from Cardiff University with a 2:1 in her LLB hons degree in 2016. Eleri then completed the Legal Practice Course in 2017 at Swansea University and passed with a Distinction.
Specialist Area:Eleri joined the firm in September 2017 as a Trainee Solicitor. Prior to joining DJM, Eleri worked in the Dispute Resolution department in a Swansea based law firm. Eleri is a fluent welsh speaker.
Interests:Eleri enjoys running, travelling and socialising with friends and family.
Email: cje@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656504
Qualifications:Christian graduated from Cardiff University with a Law Degree LL.B (Hons) 2:1 in 1995. Christian then completed the Legal Practice Course in 1998 at Cardiff University.
Specialist Area:Christian has also advised numerous companies involved in high-value commercial contract disputes, in some cases with several million pounds at stake, and is fully versed in all forms of alternative dispute resolution.Christian’s ever growing sports law practice advises sporting teams and organisations on contractual and membership matters and individual players and officials on contractual, employment and disciplinary matters including claims for discrimination and breaches of natural justice. Christian's clients include Macron, Swansea City FC and the company that manages the Liberty Stadium in Swansea.A member of the British Association for Sport & Law, Christian is singled out for praise in the Legal 500 for his expertise in Commercial Litigation and Sport. He is described as a notable practitioner by the Chambers Directory in the field of Sport.Christian is also a Director and Chairman of the Hill Community Development Trust
Interests:Season Ticker holder at Swansea City FC, Golf.
Email: sjf@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656534
Year joined DJM:2014
Qualifications:Stephen has been qualified as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives for over 14 years and is committed to his continuing personal development by attending training courses and seminars that are applicable to his role – regularly reading legal journals and articles to keep abreast of current developments within his area of expertise, enhancing competence in his role and providing sound advice to clients.
Specialist Area:Stephen is highly motivated, ambitious and hardworking individual with a positive and flexible approach to work with a great desire to succeed. He has great communication, organisational and research skills – with a logical approach to problem solving and exercising sound judgment in making appropriate decisions. He is supervised by Philip Graham, a Solicitor and Head of the Dispute Resolution team.Stephen has spent much of his career working in Debt Recovery, and with well over a decade of experience of practicing in this field, specialising in Civil Litigation and worked at three of the region’s leading private sector law firms. Stephen has acted for organisations such as Financial Institutions and Insolvency Practitioners, in secured and unsecured lending; Local Government Bodies; Local Councils; Private Schools; Fashion Houses; National Utility Companies, a Nationwide Car Rental Company; Local Businesses and also private client’s.Stephen has extensive experience in all aspects of Debt Recovery including: –•Preparation of Letters Before Claim;•Issue of County Court Proceedings;•Requesting Judgment;•Advising client’s on the most appropriate enforcement action to take having considered the merits of each case on an individual basis;•Enforcement of Judgment (in Default): Orders to Obtain Information; High Court Enforcement Officer; Warrant of Execution (County Court Bailiff); Attachment of Earnings Order; Third Party Debt Orders; Charging Orders; Order for Sale;•Dealing with Defended cases when allocated to the Small Claims Track; Preparation of the Witness Statement on behalf of the client and briefing Counsel;•Advocacy at Court Hearings including: Repossessions, Applications to set Aside Judgment, Final Charging Orders and Bankruptcy•Providing Financial Management Information Reports to clients on a monthly basis;•Quarterly Review Meetings at clients’ Head Offices to ensure the smooth running of caseload continues and discussing new work ethics;•Providing Training to the clients’ needs as and when required ;•Dealing with Mortgage Repossession cases for a variety of blue-chip clients;•Incorporating all aspects pursuant and incidental to Personal/Individual Insolvency.
Interests:Captaining a 5-a-side Football Team, competing in a local League for the last 23 years and an avid Swansea City Football Club Supporter/Season Ticket Holder.Enjoys long distance running for fun, and in the process raising money for various charities competing in events all over the country to enjoy this pursuit.Generally involved with any sport based or thrilling activities. Socialising with close family and friends.
Email: psg@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656536
Year joined DJM:2001
Qualifications:Philip graduated with an LLB Hons 2:1 Degree from Swansea University in 1999.
Specialist Area:Noted in the Legal 500, Philip’s established construction practice regularly acts in complex construction matters involving multi million pound claims, often against multinational companies. Philip has extensive experience in Adjudications for both Referring Parties and Respondent’s, including enforcing and resisting enforcement of Adjudication decisions and is presently in the process of becoming a qualified Arbitrator.His experience extends to all forms of construction disputes including:•The scope and duties of architects, project managers, structural engineers and planning consultants and the breach of these duties;•Extension of time claims and prolongation of works, liquidated damages and defective works;•Collateral warranty and contribution claims;•The interpretation and enforcement of all forms of JCT, NEC & bespoke agreements;•Valuations of services and final account claims including the quality and scope of works;•Successfully acting for builder in Arbitration concerning alleged defective construction of a swimming pool hall with technical arguments over construction, responsibility for design defects and claims for loss and expense;•Litigation relating to the design & construction of bespoke water treatment facilities in Eastern Europe before the ICC Court of Arbitration•Acting for an on-site specialist Engineering company for the production & operation of specialist milling machinery upon a cantilever road bridgeLegal 500:2016 Edition: Headed by the ‘exceptional’ Philip Graham (who is regarded as a ‘litigator par excellence’), Douglas-Jones Mercer ‘punches above its weight’ and provides a ‘fantastic level of service’ to clients including Dawnus Construction Holdings, Haywood Homes and Rowecard Holdings. Clients also rate the ‘hardworking’ and ‘tenacious’ Graham for his ability to ‘cut through the nonsense and distil the case into the critical issues’.
Interests:Outside work, Philip is a keen road cyclist and has recently been appointed as Club Secretary of Swansea Wheelers, which seeks to promote and encourage the sport and pastime of cycling within Swansea on both a competitive and social level. Philip also enjoys playing and watching football and rugby.
Email: awh@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656522
Qualifications:Having grown up and educated in Pembrokeshire, Aaron graduated from University of Wales, Aberystwyth with a Law Degree LL.B (Hons) 2:1. Aaron then undertook a Masters in Commercial Law at Cardiff University, passing with distinction, followed by successfully completing the Legal Practice Course at the College of Law, Chester in 2009.
Specialist Area:Having worked in the North West of England for two large international commercial law firms, Aaron joined the firm in 2011 as a Trainee Solicitor. Since then Aaron qualified as a solicitor within our Corporate & Commercial department. Aaron deals with a broad range of corporate and commercial matters, including mergers, acquisitions and disposals with a particular expertise in the financial services sector, corporate and group restructures, MBO’s, shareholder agreements, joint venture arrangements and commercial terms. Aaron also has banking transaction expertise regularly advising both lenders and borrowers on complex refinancing, security and asset finance arrangements.
Interests:Outside DJM, Aaron enjoys socialising with friends, sports, music and walks on the beach!
Email: rnh@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656507
Year joined DJM:Re-joined in 2019
Qualifications:Robert graduated with a 2.1BA (Honours) in Theology from Exeter University 1n 1995 and went on to do the Common Professional Examination and Legal Practice course in the University of West of England, graduating in 1999.
Specialist Area:Robert has over 18 years experience in a wide range of commercial property issues with expertise in both Landlord & Tenant matters, secured lending and pension related property transactions.
Interests:In his spare time, Robert enjoys a wide range of sporting activities, including swimming, cycling, golf and crossfit.
Email: mji@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656527
Year joined DJM:2019
Qualifications:Melanie is currently studying the Council for Licenced Conveyancers Course and is due to qualify within the next year.
Specialist Area:Melanie works within our Residential Conveyancing team but has dealt with all aspects of Residential Conveyancing during her time in previous firms since 2003.Melanie is supervised by Helen Kelly, a Solicitor and Head of the Residential Property team.
Interests:Melanie enjoys cooking, socialising with friends and family and long country walks with her dog.
Email: rsj@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656546
Qualifications:Rohey graduated from Cardiff University with a 2:1 in his LLB hons degree in 2014. Rohey undertook his LPC part time at Cardiff University between 2016 and 2018 whilst working in a large law firm based in Cardiff. He successfully completed the LPC and passed with a Commendation.
Specialist Area:Rohey joined the firm in April 2019 as a Trainee Solicitor within our Commercial Property Department. He is supervised by Michael Price.
Interests:Outside DJM, Rohey enjoys following football, cricket and rugby. He also has a keen interest in nature, travelling and photography.
Email: clj@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656541
Qualifications:Caitlin graduated from Swansea University with a 2:1 in her LLB hons degree in 2016. Caitlin then completed the Legal Practices Course in 2018 at Cardiff University and passed with a commendation.
Specialist Area:Caitlin joined the firm in March 2019 as a Trainee Solicitor within our Estates and Trusts Department. She is supervised by Jonathan Powell, whom heads up Estates and Trusts.
Interests:Outside of DJM, Caitlin is a keen ballet dancer and has been practicing from a young age, having completed her RAD examinations. In addition, Caitlin likes socialising with family and friends and keeping active.
Email: hk@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656511
Year joined DJM:August 2004
Qualifications:Helen read law at University of Wales, Swansea and graduated with a 2:1 LLB Honours degree in 2000. Helen studied in Cardiff Law School to complete the Legal Practice Course in 2001 and commenced her training contract in 2001. Helen qualified as a Solicitor in January 2004 and was made an Associate Director in January 2017.
Specialist Area:Helen is an experienced property lawyer who specialises in all aspects of Residential Property including buying, selling, re-mortgaging, transfers, new builds and leasehold property. She is supervised by Michael Price, a Solicitor and Head of the Property teams.
Interests:Helen has an interest in keeping fit by playing netball and running and enjoys music and spending time with her family including her two children.
Email: rl@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656516
Year joined DJM:June 2008
Qualifications:Rebecca read Law at University of Wales, Cardiff and graduated with 2:1 LLB Honours Degree in 2000. She continued her studies at Cardiff Law School on the Legal Practice Course and completed the course with Commendation in 2001.Rebecca was appointed an Associate Director in January 2017.
Specialist Area:Prior to joining DJM, Rebecca trained and qualified with a large Cardiff law firm and specialised in civil litigation. Rebecca returned to work in her home town of Swansea in 2008 to join the DJM, Estates & Trusts team.Rebecca specialises in all aspects of Estates and Trust work, including the drafting of Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection Applications. Rebecca also specialises in the administration of Estates including those of high net worth clients. She is supervised by Jonathan Powell, a Solicitor and Head of the Estates and Trusts team.Rebecca prides herself on being professional whilst advising clients yet also compassionate and sympathetic to their needs and situation, putting them at their ease at, quite often, very difficult times. Rebecca represents a significant number of clients through acting as their Power of Attorney or Deputy, which includes maintaining their financial affairs with IFAs and representing clients at Multi Disciplinary Team meetings involving social services and Local Health Boards. Rebecca’s expertise includes: • Wills• Administration of Estates• Lasting Power of Attorney• Registration of LPA’s/Enduring Power of Attorney• Court of Protection Applications• Management of financial affairs• Personal Injury Trusts• Advance Decisions• Property Protection Trusts• Inheritance Tax advice
Interests:Outside DJM Rebecca is passionate about music and sport. As a classically trained singer Rebecca regularly sings as a soloist in charitable events. She is also a firm fan of the Ospreys and Swans. Rebecca thrives on being involved in Charitable work and has trekked the great wall of China for Marie Curie Cancer Care and run the Cardiff Half Marathon for the James Whale Fund.
Email: hll@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 304094
Year joined DJM:2009
Qualifications:Hana graduated with an LLB Hons Degree from Swansea University in 2007. Hana continued her studies at Swansea University and completed the Legal Practice Course in 2008 with Commendation.
Specialist Area:Hana joined DJM as a Trainee Solicitor in September 2009. After working in various departments at DJM during her training contract, she joined our Property department upon her qualification as a Solicitor in September 2011. She is now an Associate Solicitor in the firm.Hana is based at our Mumbles office and specialises in all aspects of residential property transactions. Hana is supervised by Helen Kelly, a Solicitor and Head of the Residential Property team.
Interests:Hana enjoys travelling, shopping, and is a keen supporter of Mumbles RFC and Wales.
Email: al@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656523
Year joined DJM:2016
Qualifications:Angharad graduated from Swansea University with a 2:1 in English Literature in 2013. Having decided upon a change in career paths, Angharad then completed both the Graduate Diploma in 2014, followed by the Legal Practice Course in 2015 at Swansea University passing with a Commendation and then a Distinction. She qualified as a Solicitor after successfully completing her training contract with the firm in 2018.
Specialist Area:Angharad is a qualified Solicitor who is based at our Swansea Office. Angharad deals with all aspects of Residential Property including buying, selling, re-mortgaging, transfers, new builds and leasehold properties. She has experience of residential conveyancing since before joining the firm in 2016. She is supervised by Helen Kelly, a Solicitor and Head of the Residential Property team.
Interests:Angharad enjoys musical theatre, dog walking, skiing, socialising with friends and family and watching rugby.
Email: km@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656501
Year joined DJM:1972
Qualifications:A product of Gowerton Grammar School, Ken graduated from University College London in 1971 and was admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in 1973.
Specialist Area:Ken deals with all notary public matters.
Interests:Ken enjoys watching rugby and football but his main extra-office activity is golf.
Email: jmp@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: +44 (0)1792 656525
Qualifications:Jonathan graduated with a LL.B (Hons) degree from Cardiff University in 2000. Jonathan qualified with the firm in 2003, becoming Director in 2010 and has been the department head for several years prior to that appointment.
Specialist Area:Noted in the Legal 500 Jonathan has spent the entirety of his career specialising in private client Estates and Trusts work and presently acts for a base of clients ranging from high net worth commercial clients to the very elderly. Jonathan also works with numerous accountants, financial advisors, company directors and property developers in providing complex trust and taxation advice. Jonathan supervises the highly rated Estates and Trusts team at the firm.
Interests:Outside DJM, Jonathan has a keen interest in golf and enjoys travelling. Jonathan also has an interest in cars and supporting our local rugby union team; the Neath Swansea Ospreys.
Email: gpp@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656518
Year joined DJM:2018
Qualifications:Georgia graduated from Swansea University with a 2:1 in her LLB hons degree and completed her LPC at Cardiff University. She is currently completing a dissertation for her LLM in Legal Practice with Cardiff University.
Specialist Area:Georgia joined DJM as a Trainee Solicitor in September 2018. Prior to joining DJM, she worked in the Trusts and Estates department in a large Cardiff law firm, specialising in the administration of life interest trusts.
Interests:Georgia enjoys socialising with friends and family, watching TV box sets and keeping active.
Email: mip@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656542
Year joined DJM:1999
Qualifications:Mike graduated with an LLB Hons 2:1 degree from the University of Glamorgan in 1998.Michael became a Director in 2008.
Specialist Area:Mike has extensive experience in all aspects of commercial property with particular expertise in pension related property transactions, property development and Landlord & Tenant matters. Mike acts for many large property developers and investors and prides himself on providing an excellent service.
Interests:Travelling, Golf
Email: rp@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656510
Qualifications:Russell graduated with a degree in Law and Politics (LLB) from Cardiff University in 1998.Accreditations: Russell is an Accredited Mediator (CEDR)
Specialist Area:Russell is recognised as a “Leading Individual” in the field of property litigation by the Legal 500.Russell regularly advises property owner clients in relation to interference with easements (such as rights of way etc.), claims relating to nuisance (particularly flooding) and claims against trespassers to recover possession of property. He particularly specialises in dealing with remedies for breaches of a wide range of leasehold and freehold covenants, particularly those affecting the sale or development of commercial land.Landlord & TenantRussell has over 15 years’ experience advising on a wide variety of land disputes involving commercial, residential and agricultural land. He acts for both landlords and tenants and seeks to achieve a swift and pragmatic resolution to the disputes he handles, in line with clients’ expectations. He has extensive experience of a wide range of litigation in the Court of Appeal, High Court, County Court, Upper Tribunal (formerly the Lands Tribunal), Agricultural Lands Tribunal and Leasehold Valuation Tribunal. Russell regularly advises commercial landowners and tenants on remedies for breaches of a wide range of leasehold covenants and on general tenant management issues (including tenant insolvency). In the area of real property disputes, Russell has genuine expertise in advising upon the enforcement and modification/discharge of freehold restrictive covenants, particularly those restricting developments.Social HousingRussell regularly advises Housing Association landlords in relation to tenant management issues. This includes advising on anti-social behaviour issues (including serious violence, racism and harassments), demotion orders, anti-social behaviours injunctions (including Powers of Arrest/Exclusion Order), Undertakings and committal applications. Russell has extensive advocacy experience in anti-social behaviour related cases, including Fast Track trial work.ClientsRussell has acted for a wide variety of high profile public and private sector clients.
Interests:Formerly a keen cricketer and footballer, Russell is now focused on improving his golf (which shouldn’t be hard!) when not chasing around his young family.
Email: clp@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656521
Qualifications:Chloe graduated from Swansea University with an LLB Hons degree in 2014, before going on to successfully complete the Legal Practice Course in 2015 again at Swansea University.
Specialist Area:Chloe worked as a Construction law paralegal in London for 2 years prior to joining DJM. Chloe joined the firm in August 2017 as a paralegal within our Dispute Resolution department and will commence a training contract March 2018.
Interests:Chloe enjoys horse-riding, skiing and socialising with friends.
Email: cjs@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656535
Qualifications:Chris graduated with an LLB Hons Degree from Bournemouth University in 2009. He then went on to study the Legal Practice Course at Bournemouth University and obtained a Commendation.
Specialist Area:Chris is a solicitor in the commercial property department and advises on all areas of commercial property, including landlord and tenant, sales and purchases, developments and secured lending. Chris also has experience acting for buy-to-let investors and dealing with high-value residential properties.Chris joined DJM solicitors in 2017, having moved from a central Bristol based commercial firm.
Interests:Outside of the office Chris enjoys going to the gym, improving his golf, skiing and is a supporter of Bath Rugby.
Email: pas@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656502
Year joined DJM:Re-joined in 2017
Qualifications:Read law at Swansea Institute of Higher Education graduated with a 2:1 Honours degree in 1995. Undertook the LPC in Cardiff and then commenced a training contract with firm, qualifying as a Solicitor in 1999. He went on to become an Associate Solicitor and then Partner in the firm before leaving to take up an opportunity elsewhere. Paul re-joined the firm in 2017 as an Associate Director.
Specialist Area:Paul undertakes all aspects of Employment and HR work including but not limited to the following:• Representation in employment tribunals and other courts• Wrongful and unfair dismissal cases• Redundancies and restructuring• Compromise Agreements• Contracts of employment and directors service agreements• Company and staff handbooks• Restrictive covenants• Managing sickness and absence control• Disciplinary and grievance procedures• Transfer of Undertaking Regulations (TUPE)• Discrimination issues• Maternity/Paternity rights• Breach of contractPaul is supervised by Sheraz Akram, a Solicitor and Head of the Corporate team in the firm.
Interests:Keeping fit, watching football and running a local childrens football team
Email: mjs@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656503
Year joined DJM:1976
Qualifications:Michael Snowdon originates from Harpenden Hertfordshire and first came to Swansea University in 1972 where he gained a BSc (Econ) Honours Degree. He then embarked on his Solicitors qualification examinations joining DJM as an Articled Clerk in 1976. Michael thereafter qualified as a Solicitor and was made a partner at DJM in 1984 working from the Mumbles Office for a number of years.
Specialist Area:Michael was part of the DJM Commercial team which was first established in 1992 working out of the dedicated commercial office in St Helens Road. Since that time he has undertaken various roles and advised in relation to a wide variety of commercial company and property matters. Michael now heads the Property and Corporate/Commercial teams based at Axis Court.
Interests:Michael is married with 4 children. He enjoys all outdoor sports and particularly skiing – that is for as long as his knees hold out! He is also a keen supporter of Swansea City Football Club and attends most home matches.
Email: ajt@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656517
Year joined DJM:July 2013
Qualifications:Andrew graduated from University of Wales Swansea with a 2:1 in Law in 2008. After being fortunate enough to travel around the world with his friends, Andrew returned to Swansea University and successfully completed the Legal Practice Course in 2010.
Specialist Area:Andrew is a solicitor within our Dispute Resolution department. Andrew specialises in Insurance Litigation and will often represent insurance companies & local authorities in relation to personal injury and property damage claims.
Interests:In his spare time, Andrew enjoys playing and watching Football, Rugby & Tennis. Andrew also enjoys travelling and the occasional pub quiz.
Email: nt@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656513
Qualifications:Natalie graduated from the University of Wales, Swansea, in 2007 with an Upper Second Class (2:1) in LLB.Natalie also obtained a distinction when she undertook the Postgraduate Legal Practice Course at Swansea Law School in 2008.
Specialist Area:Natalie trained to become a Solicitor and qualified at a high street practice in Swansea. Upon qualification in February 2012 Natalie joined DJM as a Family Solicitor but has since joined the Estate & Trusts department progressed to become an Associate Solicitor and now deals with Private Client Estates & Trusts matters.Natalie specialises in all areas of Private Client Estates and Trusts work, including the drafting of Wills and Trusts, Powers of Attorney, the administration of estates and Court of Protection matters. Natalie prides herself on giving the best quality advice to client’s often at a difficult and sensitive time. She is supervised by Jonathan Powell, a Solicitor and Head of the Estates & Trusts team.
Interests:Natalie has a keen interest in music, keeping fit and reading.
Qualifications:Paul graduated with an Hons Degree in Microbiology from Swansea University in 1986. He then went on to work with Glaxo Pharmaceuticals, before taking up a role with the Welsh Development Agency in 1991, where as part of the Inward Investment Project team, he helped organisations establish a base/expand their existing presence in Wales. In 1996, Paul was appointed Tournament Director for the 1999 Rugby World Cup and remained in the world of sport, with posts at the Welsh Rugby Union and latterly, the Ospreys, before establishing his own business consultancy. Paul is an Honorary Fellow of Swansea University
Specialist Area:Paul provides business development support for DJM, working with the property, construction and commercial/corporate teams in particular.
Interests:Paul has had a keen interest in sport, particularly rugby and now keeps fit through squash and racketball, walks, plays golf, and periodically undertakes challenges to raise money for various charities – climbed Kilmanjaro on 2010, cycled from Paris to Swansea in 2012 and kayaked around the Coast of Wales in 2013 and now planning his next venture!
Email: sst@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656524
Qualifications:Sam has over three years experience in Conveyancing and plans to study the Council for Licenced Conveyancers Course in the future.
Specialist Area:Sam joined the firm in May 2019 as a Conveyancing Assistant within our Residential Conveyancing Department. Sam is supervised by Helen Kelly, a Solicitor and Head of the Residential Conveyancing Team.
Interests:Sam enjoys socialising with friends, attending music events and playing football.
Email: slw@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656506
Qualifications:Stephanie graduated from Swansea University in 2014 with a 2:1 in Law. She is currently undertaking the Graduate Fast Track Scheme in CILEX to become a Chartered Legal Executive.
Specialist Area:Stephanie joined the firm in 2019 as a Conveyancing Assistant within our Residential Conveyancing Department. Stephanie is supervised by Helen Kelly, a Solicitor and Head of the Residential Conveyancing Team.
Interests:Stephanie enjoys socialising with friends, walking the dog, long walks and sightseeing.
Email: cmw@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656505
Qualifications:Graduating from Aberystwyth University having obtained a 2;1 Honours LLB law degree in 2012, Chloe then completed her Legal Practice Course part-time at Cardiff University and passed with a Commendation in 2014.
Specialist Area:Prior to joining DJM in 2018 as a solicitor in the Corporate and Commercial department Chloe practised as a solicitor with a solicitors firm in Cardiff working in their Corporate and Commercial department. During her time in the Corporate and Commercial department Chloe predominantly dealt with specialist healthcare work focussing in particular on Dental and Pharmacy acquisitions and disposals throughout England and Wales. Chloe advises on a wide range of commercial and corporate matters, including shareholder agreements, partnership agreements, commercial terms, terms and conditions of trade, acquisitions and disposals with a particular expertise in the healthcare sector.
Interests:Chloe enjoys cooking, socialising and dog walking.
Email: ljz@djm.law.co.uk
Phone: 01792 656533
LinkedIn: Laura Zverev
Qualifications:Laura graduated from Cardiff University with an LLB Hons degree in 2006, before going on to obtain an LLM Commercial Law Masters in 2007 and successfully completing the Legal Practice Course in 2008 again at Cardiff University.
Specialist Area:Laura joined DJM in 2011 as a Paralegal before commencing training to qualify as a solicitor. Laura is an Associate Solicitor in the Dispute Resolution Team.
Interests:Laura enjoys watching live music, reading and socialising with friends.
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