
Gardner Leader has appointed Lynsey Smith as a partner in its Maidenhead Dispute Resolution team, further expanding its expertise in commercial litigation and franchising. Listed in the 2025 Legal 500, Smith brings two decades of experience and has acted for well-known franchise brands. ‘I’m extremely excited to have joined Gardner Leader,’ she says. ‘Everyone has been incredibly welcoming.’
Smith specialises in franchise disputes, contract breaches, injunctions, fraud, and misrepresentation claims. Having spent much of her career in Berkshire, she is well-acquainted with the region's legal landscape. ‘I look forward to bringing my expertise to the team and delivering extraordinary outcomes for our clients,’ she says.
Managing partner Derek Rodgers welcomes her appointment, stating: ‘With a wealth of knowledge in commercial litigation and franchising, Lynsey’s expertise is hugely valuable to our Maidenhead office and the wider firm.’
Gardner Leader now employs over 200 people across the South of England, marking a continued phase of growth for the firm.