12 September 2025
We were delighted to welcome four new colleagues to Phillips Law on the 1st of September.
Claire Long
Is joining us as a Partner and Head of Commercial Property. With almost 20 years’ experience advising on a wide range of property matters, Claire brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to our Commercial Property team. (25) Claire Long | LinkedIn
I am delighted to be joining Phillips Law as a Partner and Head of the Commercial Property Department. With nearly 20 years’ experience, I bring extensive expertise in commercial property transactions, from complex projects and refinancing deals to portfolio management and high-value lettings. Throughout my career, I’ve led teams handling major acquisitions, retail and leisure developments, acting for household-name retailers and landlords in respect of new lettings and portfolio and international brands entering the UK market. I am passionate about providing commercially astute, practical advice that helps clients achieve their strategic goals. As a team leader and mentor, I am equally committed to developing people and building strong client relationships. I look forward to growing Phillips Law’s commercial property offering and working closely with our clients to deliver excellent results. – Claire Long
We are also excited to welcome three new Trainee Solicitors to our 2025–2027 programme:
(featured left to right on the image)
Thomas Whittock
He recently completed the LPC LLM at the University of Law and brings valuable experience across corporate, commercial, and property matters.
He is starting in our Wills, Trusts and Probate Department.
(25) Thomas Whittock | LinkedIn
Fazila Akhtar
Who joins us with strong client care experience from her time in residential conveyancing and volunteering with Citizens Advice.
She is starting in our Litigation Department.
Gemma Jones
Who recently passed the SQE1 with Distinction and brings a broad range of legal and professional experience, alongside a background in English Literature.
She is starting in our Corporate and Commercial Department.
We are proud to continue growing our team with such talented individuals and look forward to seeing the contributions Claire, Fazila, Gemma, and Thomas will make as they begin the next chapters of their careers with Phillips Law.
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