
Blackfords LLP has promoted Lucinda Shand to partner and head of criminal defence in its Croydon office, reinforcing the firm’s expertise in high-profile dispute resolution. Shand, who joined Blackfords as a trainee in 2008, has been involved in significant cases, including bribery and corruption allegations in the Turks and Caicos Islands and landmark appeals on coercion in drug offences. ‘I have been overwhelmed by the career support I have received at Blackfords,’ she says.
Shand specialises in a broad range of serious criminal offences, including fraud, violent crime, and regulatory investigations, representing individuals both in the UK and internationally. More recently, she has expanded her practice to include regulatory law, advising professionals facing disciplinary proceedings. ‘I aim to provide the same guidance and mentorship to colleagues that I have benefited from,’ she says.
Managing partner Trevor Francis welcomes the promotion, stating, ‘We are particularly proud to have helped and nurtured Lucinda throughout her career.’ Her appointment follows a wave of female partner promotions at the firm, strengthening Blackfords’ leadership and reaffirming its commitment to developing talent within its ranks.