Kennedys hires historic abuse and local authority specialist as partner

Law firm Kennedys has recruited Kathryn Oldfield, an historic abuse and local authority specialist, as a partner.

Oldfield joins the firm’s UK public liability practice from Plexus. She will be based in the Chelmsford office and will work alongside partners Jennifer Harris, Joy Middleton, Richard Whybrew and a team of 80 lawyers.

The firm said she would also add expertise to its historic abuse product group, headed by partner Helen Snowball.

Richard West, Head of Liability at Kennedys, said: “I am delighted that Kathryn has chosen to join Kennedys as a partner. To welcome someone of Kathryn’s integrity, market profile and expertise to our partnership is a pleasure.

“It is clear that Kathryn cares passionately about her work and has sought a home that will support her and her practice for the long term. Kathryn’s arrival is part of our continued strategy to strengthen our capabilities both domestically and internationally.”

In June, Kennedys reported record turnover of £217m, representing a 12% increase on the previous financial year (£193m).