Leathes Prior Welcomes New Partner and Launches Ipswich Office

Leathes Prior is excited to announce its ongoing growth with the opening of a new office in Ipswich, Suffolk, and the addition of Matthew Swash as a Partner in the Regulatory and Criminal Defence Team.

In recent months, Partners Mike Barlow and Howard Catherall have expanded the Regulatory & Criminal Defence Team in response to rising demand for private criminal defence representation, bringing both Solicitor Jo Henderson and Legal Assistant Diane Bartsch on board. Matthew Swash has now also joined the Team.

With over 20 years of experience in road traffic and criminal defence work, Matthew is highly regarded in the legal community and amongst his peers. His expertise will further enhance Leathes Prior’s specialist Team, working alongside Howard and Jo to offer expert services for clients needing private regulatory or criminal defence representation. Matthew is especially noted for his success in the pre-charge phase of investigations, frequently persuading the Police and Crown Prosecution Service through pre-charge engagement that his clients should not be prosecuted. He also has extensive experience supporting vulnerable and neurodiverse clients.

Founded in Norfolk over 148 years ago, Leathes Prior has built a strong reputation both locally and beyond. The firm's expansion into Suffolk reflects its commitment to offering comprehensive legal services across the region. This strategic move supports the firm’s growth of the Regulatory and Criminal Defence Team, as well as its Logistics and Supply Chain services.

Leathes Prior is thrilled to join Ipswich’s business community. The firm looks forward to forging strong relationships with businesses in the area over the coming months and years. Ipswich has seen significant growth in recent years, with a thriving business sector, strong local economy and diverse communities. With the opening of the Ipswich office, Leathes Prior is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of growth while upholding its core values of building strong relationships, embracing individuality and delivering a client-centered service. We look forward to advising and representing new and existing clients across Suffolk & North Essex.

The new Leathes Prior office is located at Suite G3, Connexions, 159 Princes Street, Ipswich. The firm has been warmly welcomed into the building and by the broader Ipswich business community.

Commenting on the expansion, Mike Barlow, Partner at Leathes Prior, said “We’re delighted to be making this next step as part of our growth plans, which has aligned with the expansion of our Regulatory and Criminal Defence Team. A huge thank you to our Facilities Manager, Matthew Chaplin for creating such a seamless addition to our working spaces, which has allowed us to hit the ground running in Ipswich. We look forward to many successful years ahead in our new home.”

Howard Catherall added, “We’re thrilled that Matthew Swash has joined our Team. The demand for specialist private defence services has increased considerably over the last few years. The addition of a solicitor of Matthew’s calibre will enable us to maintain the high levels of service and support that our clients need in what will often be one of the most stressful periods in their lives.”