Regional law firm BLB Solicitors, which has offices in and around Bristol, is to undergo a rare change of management – only the second in its 42-year history.
Managing partner Stephen Bishop is stepping down from the role, although he will remain with the practice as head of residential property.
The new joint managing partners will be the firm’s head of commercial property Richard Bowater, pictured right, and Catherine Smith, pictured below, who heads its Swindon office.
Stephen said: “After 13 years in the role, I am very proud that I can pass on the management of a very successful and thriving firm.
“We are confident that Richard and Catherine will steer the firm to even greater success in the future.”
Richard has worked at BLB for just over seven years and was previously an associate solicitor with the firm. 
He has also worked at Wiltshire firm Awdry Bailey & Douglas, Somerset’s Chubb Bulleid Solicitors and Withy King (now Royds Withy King).
Catherine, who has been at BLB for six years, previously worked at Jeary & Lewis in Chippenham.
Richard said, “I am delighted to be moving into this leadership role, alongside Catherine, with such a well-known and respected firm. We are very much looking forward to leading BLB into the next chapter.”
BLB has offices in Bristol’s Orchard Street, Almondsbury, Bath, , Bradford on Avon, Swindon and Trowbridge. Its services range from company & commercial and residential and commercial property to personal injury compensation and family law.
