Brabners hires new Insolvency Partner as UK economy braces for further turmoil

Independent law firm Brabners has appointed a new partner to its insolvency and restructuring practice.

Jennifer Lockhart, who is recognised by the Legal 500 as a ‘Next Generation Partner’, joins from Hillyer McKeown. She has 16 years’ experience providing legal advice to businesses, individuals and insolvency industry professionals, with a client list comprising international, mid-market and boutique advisory firms including KPMG, Grant Thornton and Begbies Traynor.

Jennifer specialises in insolvency matters and has advised on several complex cases involving director misfeasance, fraudulent trading and payment of unlawful dividends. Her appointment further strengthens Brabners’ insolvency and restructuring offering.

Nik White, managing partner at Brabners, said: “Jennifer is a hugely experienced lawyer and will bring crucial expertise and specialisms to our insolvency and restructuring team. Covid-19 has created major challenges for businesses to remain viable. With the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme coming to a close this autumn and government-backed emergency loans due for repayment next spring, those challenges are only set to increase for many.

“Across a range of practice areas, we’re seeing the increased need for sound, commercially-minded legal advice and Jennifer’s skills and experience will be invaluable in supporting our clients as they look to overcome these unique financial pressures.”

Jennifer Lockhart, partner at Brabners, said: “No company wants to think about insolvency or restructuring but the harsh reality of the current economic situation means that more and more are having to consider which parts of their business are best-placed to help them succeed in the future. An increase in insolvencies brings with it the greater exposure to company directors and it’s important that we look to protect the directors, employees and creditors of those businesses struggling to remain afloat.

“The calibre of Brabners’ insolvency team makes us well-placed to guide businesses through these choppy waters. My extensive insolvency experience will further improve that support.”

Jennifer’s appointment brings Brabners’ growing insolvency and restructuring practice to seven members.