GA Solicitors expands Bath office offerings

Regional law firm GA Solicitors is taking significant steps to expand its Bath office, marking a pivotal shift from its traditional focus solely on renewable energy under its GA Energy arm. The firm has recently appointed Stephen Horton, a partner with over a decade of experience, whose expertise will strengthen the firm’s offerings in the private client sector. Horton’s role will encompass estate planning, wills, trusts, and inheritance tax advice, addressing a broader client need in the Bath area.

The Bath office, which opened in 2019, is now positioning itself to grow further by leveraging Horton’s specialist knowledge, particularly with clients managing substantial property investments and family businesses. GA Solicitors is keen to develop its local presence, and this recruitment is viewed as a foundational step towards increasing its client base in Bath and Bristol.

Managing partner Rob Zacal expressed his enthusiasm for Horton’s recruitment, stating, “We have been wanting for some time to expand the Bath offering beyond that of just GA Energy… Stephen was the perfect candidate with a wealth of experience, a loyal client base and a specialist field in dealing with agriculture and landowners.” He noted that the firm aims to ensure it possesses not only experienced senior lawyers but also high-calibre junior talent to sustain its growth.

In addition to Horton, the firm is also welcoming three trainee solicitors who will undergo a rigorous training programme designed to foster homegrown talent. GA Solicitors has seen recent successes with the qualification of two members into solicitors and the promotion of others into associate roles, reflecting the effectiveness of its training initiatives.

Horton shared his excitement, saying, “I am very excited to join GA Solicitors and to help the firm develop and grow its offering in the Bath and Bristol markets… My experience complements the department well, allowing me to offer strategic and complex tax advice, particularly to landowners and agricultural clients.” His commitment to enhancing the firm’s profile in new geographical territories marks an optimistic outlook for GA Solicitors.

With more than 200 years of heritage, the firm has built a solid reputation, now employing 104 staff members across its Plymouth and Bath offices. GA Solicitors offers expertise in various legal areas including business, family, employment, and personal injury, establishing itself as a leading regional law firm in the South West. As the firm expands its footprint, the integration of seasoned professionals like Horton is expected to play a crucial role in the delivery of comprehensive legal services to its diverse client base.