Weightmans—Jessica Neary, Lee Cook & Jen Hankinson

National law firm Weightmans has welcomed three new partners to its Manchester office.

The healthcare litigation team is joined by Jessica Neary (pictured, centre), formerly a partner at Hill Dickinson. Jessica specialises in clinical negligence litigation, representing both NHS Trusts and private medical providers.

Lee Cook (left) joins the large loss team from Keoghs and will deal with complex injury claims on behalf of insurers, public bodies, and corporates, with a particular interest in functional neurological disorders. He also has a proven track record in cases involving fraud, securing notable findings of fundamental dishonesty in several high value claims. Lee’s arrival follows the recent hires to the large loss team in Manchester of Luisa Lamb and Elizabeth Wallace.

Jen Hankinson (right) joins the real estate team from Capsticks and brings with her extensive experience in the housing sector, with expertise in residential development and regeneration programmes. She is recognised both by her clients and in legal directories as a leading expert in her field.

Carole Spiller, partner and Manchester office head, said: 'Our Manchester practice continues to grow and expand, and it is great to attract such highly experienced partners and legal practitioners to our office. They really are the best of the best in their respective fields and truly understand our client-first approach. I wish them all the best for the future.'

These latest appointments follow the announcement that Weightmans’ Manchester-based client relationships director, Sarah Walton, will assume the role of managing partner from April 2025, after current MP, John Schorah, hangs up his hat after 12 years in the role.