Cathy Owen - Head of Wills & Probate

Cathy joined Ward & Rider in October 2003 as a paralegal.

Cathy studied law at Warwick University and graduated in 1999 completing the Legal practice Course at DeMontford University in 2000.

Following completion of her studies, Cathy worked for Leamington based Solicitors before joining Ward & Rider.

Cathy specialises in the preparation of Wills, Trusts, Applications for Probate and the Administration of Estates. Cathy also deals with Court of Protection applications, including applications for and the registration of Lasting Powers of Attorney and Deputyship Orders.

Cathy says "I often have to help clients who are experiencing recent bereavement or have just been told that a parent is suffering from dementia. I get satisfaction from helping clients through these difficult times. If I can make things a little easier for them, then I have succeeded."

Cathy’s passion is football. She is a qualified FA Referee and the Secretary of a local football team. Cathy also keeps chickens.

Lucy Williams - Trainee Solicitor

Lucy joined Ward & Rider in September 2003 on a gap year before starting University.

Lucy then went on to study law at Nottingham Trent University followed by the Legal Practice Course at Nottingham Law School. During these four years she returned to work at Ward & Rider during each vacation.

Lucy is now back at Ward & Rider full time while completing her training contract. The training contract will last for two years, and during this period she will spend time in at least three different departments.

Lucy comments: "I enjoy putting all that I have learned at University into practice."

In her spare time Lucy supports the Birmingham based Charity PHAB.

Lucy comments: "I've been involved with PHAB over the past seven years. I first got involved while I was still at school. We work all year to raise funds to take a group of disabled people away for a week in the summer. I work with the 18+ age group, but there are also younger age group holidays as well."