Leonnie Watson, a childcare solicitor at Timms Solicitors, has successfully passed the Law Society Children's Law Accreditation, recognising her specialist knowledge, skills and experience in handling complex family court matters.
The achievement marks another significant step in Leonnie's career, which began when she joined Timms in 2018 as a Family Law Paralegal.
Leonnie graduated from the University of Derby in 2018 with an honours degree in Law before completing her Legal Practice Course and master's degree at Nottingham Trent University in 2020.
She undertook her postgraduate studies part-time while continuing to work at Timms, supporting the firm's Care team across its Derby and Burton offices.
In 2021, Leonnie secured a training contract with the firm and qualified as a solicitor the following year, developing a particular passion for family law.
Now working across Timms' Derby, Swadlincote and Burton offices, Leonnie specialises in public law matters, representing parents during pre-proceedings and court proceedings involving local authorities.
Fiona Moffat, Managing Partner at Timms Solicitors, praised Leonnie's dedication and commitment to her profession.
"We are very excited to celebrate Leonnie's achievement, and we would like to take this opportunity to congratulate her on her recent exam results.
"Leonnie is always fully committed and her work in this field is crucial in supporting families in this area.
"Leonnie has shown real determination in her studies, and it is wonderful to see the next generation of talent coming up through the business."
Speaking about her achievement, Leonnie said she was delighted to have reached another important milestone in her legal career.
"Working to achieve the Law Society Children's Law Accreditation was the next step for me and I am really pleased to pass this exam.
"It means I will be able to use my expertise as a family law solicitor to deal with difficult family issues like contact, residence and other parental rights issues.
"I would like to thank everyone at Timms for their ongoing support and I am really looking forward to the future."
The achievement also highlights Timms Solicitors' ongoing commitment to nurturing young legal talent and supporting career development within the firm.
Earlier this month, Timms announced that Family Law Paralegal Isabelle Marchewka had been promoted to trainee solicitor, beginning a two-year training contract after three years with the company.
Both milestones reflect the firm's continued investment in developing the next generation of legal professionals across Derby and the surrounding area.