Criminal defence firm Olliers Solicitors has announced a string of promotions at its Manchester office.

Toby Wilbraham, Alex Preston, Zita Spencer and Laura Baumanis have been promoted from senior associate to partner, while Helen Buxton and Alex Close-Claughton have been promoted from senior case worker to associate, and Lily Grundy from solicitor to associate.

Wilbraham specialises in dealing with allegations at the pre-charge stage and heads the firm’s pre-charge department. 

Preston specialises in serious crime, inquests and inquiries, representing high profile clients facing charges including murder, drugs and firearms.

Spencer, who has been with the firm for almost two decades, has significant experience dealing with allegations of historical sexual abuse, human trafficking, rape and grooming.

Baumanis joined Olliers in 2005 and has worked on serious criminal cases such as high profile human trafficking cases, murders and conspiracies to supply drugs.

Baumanis said: 'Over the last 12 years, I’ve seen Olliers evolve and over the last three years in particular, we’ve solidified our position as a truly proactive firm.

'Being given the opportunity to become a partner in such an outstanding criminal defence practice is a real privilege and I look forward to the ongoing challenges and opportunities my new position will bring.'

Both Buxton and Close-Claughton have extensive knowledge in representing clients who face the most serious allegations. Grundy qualified as a solicitor in 2021, having previously trained at the English National Ballet School. 

She said: 'Before joining Olliers, I explored a number of different specialisms, but it was criminal defence work that truly struck a chord with me. I’m passionate about supporting people in their most vulnerable moments and look forward to building on the valuable experience I’ve gained so far at the firm.'

Olliers managing director Matthew Claughton added: 'Our lawyers are all experts in their field and I’m extremely pleased to be making promotions across the board. Colleagues and clients alike benefit from their knowledge, experience and hardworking nature and their new positions are well and truly deserved.'

 

Pictured above: Back row (L-R) - Lily Grundy, Alex Preston, Matthew Close-Claughton and Laura Baumanis. Sitting down (L-R) - Zita Spencer and Helen Buxton

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