At the beginning of April, SME Solicitors announced several leadership and role changes across the firm.
Amanda Piper has become Head of Court of Protection, Probate & Trusts within the Private Client team. Amanda joined the firm in June 2021 and brings more than 25 years’ experience in Private Client work. She is a member of STEP and has recently gained CILEx Litigation Practice Rights.
Florence Goodwin has stepped into the role of Head of Wills & Powers of Attorney within Private Client. Florence joined the firm in 2020 and has over 25 years’ experience advising on wills, trusts, letters of wishes and inheritance tax.
Justine Lowe has been promoted to Associate in the Family Law department. After joining SME Solicitors in 2021, Justine moved into Family Law in January 2025, bringing valuable commercial negotiation experience to resolving disputes. She also recently became a Resolution Collaborative Practitioner.
Alongside these new roles, Ian Stirzaker stepped down as Managing Partner/Senior Partner after more than two decades. Ian remains a partner and Head of the Family Law department and will support the ongoing management of the firm.
The firm’s Managing Partner, Samantha Lloyd, commented: “These changes reflect the experience and commitment that Amanda, Florence and Justine bring to their teams, and their progression is thoroughly well-deserved. We are also grateful to Ian for his long-standing leadership and the support he continues to provide as we build on the firm’s momentum for the years ahead.”