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27 August 2025
Categories: Movers & Shakers , Profession
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Downs Solicitors—Kate Matthews

Surrey firm strengthens franchise offering with consultant hire

Downs Solicitors has enhanced its franchise services with the appointment of Kate Matthews as consultant solicitor at its Reigate office. A recognised name in the sector, Kate now chairs the firm’s franchising service, bringing her extensive experience to lead cross-departmental support across Downs’ four offices.

Kate is highly regarded in Worldwide Who’s Who Franchising and has been consistently ranked in Legal 500 and Chambers for her work in franchising law. She joined Downs in 2024 and now spearheads the firm’s efforts to offer comprehensive legal support to franchise businesses.

‘Franchising covers a multitude of legal disciplines which makes it a diverse and exciting arena in which to offer legal services,’ said Kate. ‘It’s great that Downs is strengthening its cross-practice team to provide a comprehensive franchise service to its clients.’

With a focus on risk management, transactions, mediation and litigation, Kate and the Downs team aim to provide a ‘one stop shop’ for franchise clients or allow them to ‘cherry pick the immediate specialist service’ they need.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Gateley Legal—Jack Kelly

Gateley Legal—Jack Kelly

Gateley Legal expands Midlands residential development team

Gibson Dunn—Richard Surtees

Gibson Dunn—Richard Surtees

Gibson Dunn adds employee benefits and executive compensation practice in London with partner Richard Surtees

Laytons ETL—Alec Cameron

Laytons ETL—Alec Cameron

Laytons ETL appoints new partner and head of intellectual property disputes

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