Andrew Jackson Solicitors has kicked off the new year with the announcement of several new appointments within their regulatory, litigation and corporate teams. The announcements follow a year of growth and expansion for the firm, with new regional offices, a string of senior appointments and numerous high-profile deal completions.

One notable appointment is Vanessa Crossley, who joins the regulatory team forming part of the firm’s shipping and litigation department as an associate and as a practising barrister. The busy department she joins has recently been involved in a number of regulatory cases including the prosecution of the Master of a ferry that collided with a pleasure yacht; the prosecution of a fishing company for Illegal, Unregulated, Unreported (IUU) fishing, resulting in a record penalty, which the defendant is appealing; and, the defence of a vessel owner in a collision between two vessels with the loss of three lives.

Andrew Oliver, partner and head of the regulatory team, said: “Vanessa’s extensive experience as a barrister will add a new dimension to our client offer, as we frequently provide advice to businesses and individuals on regulatory matters, covering both the marine sector, as well as on land, which is a unique combination. We are particularly busy with fisheries and marine prosecutions, but we also have a number of cases involving the food industry, waste, the care sector and agriculture. Vanessa will be a great fit with the team, providing additional higher rights advocacy cover in the Crown Court.  We’re really pleased to have her on board and warmly welcome her to the firm.”

In addition to Vanessa’s appointment, Robert Best joins the litigation and dispute resolution team as a paralegal and Liam Hessay joins the corporate team, also as a paralegal.

Mark Pearson-Kendall, managing partner of Andrew Jackson, added: – “Andrew Jackson’s commitment to offering legal advice and services covering all aspects of the law is consistently recognised in our client feedback. It’s important to us that we further strengthen our team with highly skilled individuals like Vanessa, Robert and Liam, so that we can continue to provide the highest standards in service and value for our clients.”