ABOUT

Clear transparent advice

Maclaren Warner Solicitors was created in 1986 to serve the local communities in which we are based. We pride ourselves on the local knowledge of our Solicitors and employees. We have traditional values and offer a personal service including home visits, face to face meetings with clients and a sympathetic approach in clients’ times of need.

We are proud to offer a competitive service with no hidden charges. Our offices are conveniently located in the town centres of Ilkeston and Eastwood.

Philosophy

Client centric expertise, delivered with care

Maclaren Warner values its clients above all else, viewing them as our most valuable asset. Our primary goal is ensuring the ongoing welfare of those we serve. We firmly believe that a thriving practice is established through client satisfaction, rather than prioritising financial gains through case manipulation for higher attorney fees. Genuine success stems from fulfilling client needs, not simply monetary gains.

Moreover, our firm is committed to serving the community responsibly. We prioritise treating clients, witnesses, jurors, fellow attorneys, and court staff with respect and civility, recognising the importance of courtesy in all interactions.

Transparency

Clear communication, every step of the way

Maclaren Warner steadfastly upholds its fiduciary responsibility to its clients, consistently embodying high standards of ethics, honesty, trustworthiness, and compliance with state and national laws. The firm also deeply respects the rights of others and the judicial system. Leveraging its experience in serving corporations, business entities, and private individuals, Maclaren Warner ensures comprehensive, efficient, and cost-effective representation for each client. For further enquiries about the firm, please feel free to reach out by phone.

Team

Our experts dedicated to supporting you

Laura Neville

Laura Neville

Conveyancing Assistant

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.

Natalie Layton

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.

Sally Smith

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.

Sarah Southall

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.

Sheryl Rigley

Sheryl Rigley

Legal Secretary

I am a longstanding member of our Property Team providing essential support within conveyancing.

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.

Rebecca King

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.

Ashleigh Meredith

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.

Aaron Gatland

Aaron Gatland

Corporate Paralegal

I am a Commercial and Corporate Paralegal, supporting clients across a broad range of transactional and advisory matters. I assist with commercial contract drafting, corporate governance, due diligence, and regulatory compliance, working closely with senior lawyers to deliver clear, practical, and commercially focused solutions. I take a detail-driven approach and combine this with strong business awareness to help clients navigate complex issues with confidence. My experience includes supporting mergers and acquisitions, shareholder arrangements, and day-to-day operational agreements. Known for my clear communication and responsiveness, I am committed to delivering high-quality work while building long-term, trusted relationships with the clients I support.

Abbey Broughton

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.

Bharat Singh

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.

Emma Riley

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.

Harry Bradshaw

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 solutions-focused.

I am dependable, approachable, and always willing to go the extra mile for both clients and the team.

Kari Izdebski

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.

She understands the information given can be overwhelming and will always break this down to ensure purchasers understand the full extent of what is provided.

Martin Collins

Martin Collins

Group CEO

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.

Lisa Johnson

Lisa Johnson

Property Assistant

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.

Sarah Mills

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.

Kathryn Fretwell

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.

Claire Dibb

Claire Dibb

Group CFO

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 solutions that drive business performance and growth.

Reviews

What Our Clients Say

Read what clients have said about working with Maclaren Warner.

I’m currently using MaClaren Warners and can honestly say it’s been a breath of fresh air!
Lisa is so prompt, she’s always
keeping me updated, I’ve never had to ring or chase her because I’m so well informed of the latest developments.

She’s extremely thorough and has helped to resolve a few speed bumps along the way. I can’t sing her praises enough and would never want to use another solicitor again!

May 2024

I recently used Maclaren Warner (Eastwood branch) for the conveyancing of a property purchase which had some challenges over a standard house buy. I can honestly say the team at Eastwood were great, always able to get hold of them via phone and good response times for emails etc. Tahiba was a particular member of the team who lead our process and she was fantastic at updating and coming back regularly, as well as working with us to overcome the challenges throughout the process. Really grateful of her efforts.

May 2024
Great experience. Simon Kassell handled the purchase and sale of our houses and we have no hesitation in making use of his services now for the sale of our current home. Very professional, efficient and effective service. And good value for money – not a rip-off!
June 2024

Careers

Join our experts

Are you ready to be part of a dynamic and innovative legal team?

Maclaren Warner Law Firm is seeking passionate individuals to join our team of legal professionals. If you’re dedicated, driven, and eager to make a meaningful impact, we want to hear from you.

Send us your CV and a brief introduction explaining why you’d be a great fit for our team. Join us in our mission to provide exceptional legal services and make a difference in the lives of our clients.