New partner joins Gardner Leader’s residential property team in Maidenhead

Law firm Gardner Leader has appointed Lauren Blackman as partner on its residential property team.

Lauren’s appointment follows that of Vicky Schollar, who joined the Newbury office earlier this year as head of employment.

Now based at the firm’s Maidenhead office on Frascati Way, Lauren qualified as a solicitor in 2016 and brings a wealth of experience to the team.

She specialises in all areas of property law, including freehold and leasehold sales and purchases, new build purchases, transfers of equity, right to buy, shared ownership, and non-statutory lease extensions.

Before joining Gardner Leader, Lauren held roles at Kite Griffin Solicitors in Bracknell, where she worked for more than 10 years.

Over that time, she established a reputation for her attention to detail, proactive and transparent approach, and quick communication.

She also joins husband Tim Blackman, a senior associate on Gardner Leader’s real estate team since 2016, who was recently named a ‘rising star’ in this year’s Legal 500 rankings.

Lauren said: “I’m delighted to have joined the Gardner Leader team at an exciting time.

“Having spent a decade at my last practice, I’m looking forward to bringing my experience in residential property to the team, and providing our clients new and old with the best legal advice and support.

“The first quarter of 2024 has seen the strongest boost in the housing market since the mini budget in September 2022.

“The stabilisation of mortgage interest rates has given confidence and allowed hesitant first-time buyers to pull the trigger and get on the ladder.”

Gardner Leader employs more than 200 staff across the South, with offices in London, Windsor, Swindon and most recently, Oxford.

It has also has a strong presence in the Thames Valley, including locations in Maidenhead, Newbury and Thatcham. 

Derek Rodgers, managing partner, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Lauren to Gardner Leader.

“As one of the region’s leading law firms, our team has grown threefold over the last decade, with Lauren the latest addition to our thriving residential property team.

“Our aim is to deliver the best legal advice, support, and peace of mind to all our clients.

“Lauren joins a residential property team that is leading the way in terms of legal knowhow, industry experience, and client satisfaction.”