Robert Tiffen joins Ellisons as partner

Ellisons has made a significant appointment by welcoming Robert Tiffen as a Partner in its Dispute Resolution team, marking a pivotal step in its commitment to further invest in Norfolk. Tiffen's role is set to enhance the legal landscape for clients in the region, particularly following the firm's recent establishment of its first permanent office in Norwich earlier this year. With expertise in commercial litigation, contentious probate, and franchising, Tiffen brings approximately 20 years of experience to the firm, where he will advise a diverse clientele, including businesses, shareholders, and high-net-worth individuals.

The breadth of Robert’s experience enables him to navigate a wide spectrum of complex legal matters. He offers invaluable guidance on issues ranging from shareholder disagreements to everyday contractual disputes and professional negligence claims. His proactive approach aims to help clients understand their options, manage risks effectively, and pursue the best outcomes for their situations. Tiffen's specialization in contentious probate is a noteworthy aspect of his practice; he serves as a full member of ACTAPS and has been involved in numerous intricate disputes concerning high-net-worth estates. These cases often involve challenging aspects such as capacity, undue influence, and intricate claims arising from the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

In addition to his work in probate, Robert stands out for his proficiency in franchise disputes, a niche area where few solicitors possess in-depth expertise. His experience encompasses advising both franchisors and franchisees, including prominent national and international brands. Throughout his career, Tiffen has prioritised early resolution of disputes through negotiation, but should litigation become necessary, he adopts a strategic approach focused on achieving advantageous commercial results.

His appointment aligns seamlessly with Ellisons’ broader strategy to bolster its presence in the region. Lee Pearce, Head of Dispute Resolution at Ellisons, noted that Tiffen's expertise enhances the offer to clients facing legal challenges. He stated that “when clients come to us, they’re usually dealing with an issue that’s distracting them from running their business or dealing with their personal affairs". Pearce added that "winning an argument isn’t always the same as solving a problem, and he understands that". As further testament to Tiffen's reputation, Pearce emphasised how his experience enhances the firm's service offerings across East Anglia.

In expressing his own enthusiasm for his new role, Robert stated that “no one expects to become involved in a dispute”. He emphasized his commitment to guiding clients through difficult times, whether that involves negotiating or resorting to litigation. Tiffen highlighted his attraction to Ellisons' ethos of fostering long-term client relationships and its investment in regional legal services. He expressed excitement about joining a growing team dedicated to supporting individuals and businesses across Norfolk.

The addition of Robert Tiffen is a strategic move for Ellisons’ Dispute Resolution team, which already works diligently to prevent, manage, and resolve disputes in various contentious areas. These include commercial conflicts, partnership disagreements, professional negligence claims, insolvency, construction litigation, and contentious probate cases, further solidifying the firm's reputation as a key player in the region's legal landscape.