James Halpin appointed director at SO Legal

James joined us as a trainee solicitor in 2017 and has progressed through several roles over the past nine years. He was promoted to senior partner earlier this year and has now joined our board as a director.

Based in Brighton, James heads our commercial property team and has played a central role in developing the department and growing our national client base.

He advises landlords, investors, developers and businesses across England and Wales on a wide range of commercial property matters, including acquisitions and disposals, commercial leases, refinancing and property investment.

James’s appointment comes during a period of continued growth for SO Legal, which now has offices in London, Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, Bath and Ulverston, supporting clients across the country.

Developing the next generation

James’s progression from trainee solicitor to director is something we are particularly proud of and reflects our commitment to developing talented people and providing opportunities to build long-term careers at SO Legal.

His appointment follows the recent promotions of Dylan Leet and Nicole Hoddinott to partners. All three have developed their careers with us and are now taking on increasingly senior roles within the firm.

Hamed Ovaisi, chairman of SO Legal, said:

“James’s appointment as a director is exceptionally well deserved. Having joined us as a trainee, his progression through the firm is a great example of what talented and ambitious people can achieve at SO Legal. Alongside the recent promotions of Dylan and Nicole to partners, it also demonstrates our commitment to developing people from within and giving them opportunities to progress into senior roles.”

Simon Moss, managing director, said:

“James has made a significant contribution to the growth of SO Legal and particularly to the development of our commercial property team. He brings a huge amount of experience and energy to the business, and I’m looking forward to working with him as a fellow director as we continue to develop and grow the firm.”

James said:

“Having started my career at SO Legal as a trainee, I’m incredibly proud to be joining the board as a director. The firm has changed enormously since I joined in 2017, and I’m excited to play a greater role in its future development while continuing to grow our commercial property team and support the next generation of solicitors coming through the business.”

James will continue to lead our commercial property team alongside his responsibilities as a director.

To find out more about James, his experience and expertise, or to get in touch, visit his profile page.