A YOUNG North East solicitor, who lost her father to cancer, is drawing on the experience to help others in her new role with a County Durham law firm.
When Jennifer Turnbull’s father, Bob, was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer in 2010 and died in March 2015, the 34-year-old, from Newcastle, discovered at first hand the concerns and anxieties faced by those with life limiting illnesses and the impact this has on their loved ones.
And since his diagnosis she has worked tirelessly with charities in the region to provide legal advice and support for those worried about what will become of their families, homes and assets.
Now she is bringing her knowledge and experience to bear within the Wills and Probate division of EMG Solicitors, at Abbeywoods Business Park, Durham.
In her new position, she will specialise in advising clients on issues such as Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and trusts to provide for dependents as well as helping families deal with legal matters following the death of a loved one.
Since qualifying as a solicitor in 2011, Jennifer has worked with Macmillan nurses, hospices and hospitals to provide legal help to their patients and support to their families and carers.
She has also helped clients appeal against decisions made by the NHS regarding Continuing Healthcare Funding and with issues surrounding the provision – and cost – of residential care.
“Through this work, I realised how important legal assistance is when you are vulnerable and/or are diagnosed with a life changing illness,” said Jennifer, who is a Dementia Friends Champion and an Associate Member of Solicitors for the Elderly, an independent organisation providing specialist legal advice for older and vulnerable people, their families and carers.
“I also saw at first-hand the stress and anxiety legal problems can cause and the impact on the health and wellbeing of not only the patient but also their loved ones.
“I am thrilled to be joining EMG, to not only use my existing experience but to develop my career further in helping vulnerable clients and their families.”
EMG Solicitors offers expertise across a wide range of areas including Court of Protection, deputyship, surrogacy, dispute and litigation and residential conveyancing.
Managing director Emma Gaudern said: “We never forget that people are at the heart of every single aspect of our work.
“And Jennifer’s empathy and understanding will be a real asset both to our more vulnerable clients and to the service we offer. We are delighted to welcome her to the team.”
For further information, visit www.emgsolicitors.com.