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Consumer Claims Litigation Department

This team help thousands of people with a range of consumer claims.

Ryan Postlethwaite

Head of Consumer Claims Litigation

Ryan Postlethwaite

Head of Consumer Claims Litigation

Ryan Postlethwaite joined Express Solicitors in August 2013 and is head of our Consumer Claims Litigation Team specialising in housing disrepair and tenancy deposit cases.

Ryan started in our new client team, before quickly being promoted to the role of Litigation Executive and then Trainee Solicitor in September 2014. Ryan qualified as a Solicitor in September 2016.

Ryan enjoys advocacy and attained his higher rights of audience in 2016, allowing him to practise as a Solicitor Advocate. He believes that court advocacy is an extremely important skill that can often make or break a case and he relishes the opportunity to put persuasive arguments before judges on behalf of his clients.

Ryan has advised Express solicitors on a number of high value transactions and has astute commercial awareness. When acting for clients in housing disrepair and tenancy deposit claims, this allows him to stay one step ahead of Defendants and provide excellent tactical advice in relation to their claim.

Ryan has a particular interest in enforcement of debts and tries to think outside of the box when trying to recover debts on behalf of clients. He says “winning a case and obtaining an order that someone must pay you compensation is only half the battle. Where a person or company is uninsured, actually recovering money can be extremely difficult. Every single attempt at enforcing a court order is individual and particular regard must be had in relation to the person that owes the debt. In disputes involving landlords, a particularly important tool to employ can be that of applying for a charging order over a property owned by the landlord.

This can give rise to a possession order which would allow a client to take possession of the property and sell it to satisfy the debt.

In relation to tenancy deposit claims, Ryan notes that “the requirement for deposits to be protected is there to protect tenants who have assured short hold tenancies and ensure that they have redress at the end of a tenancy should landlords not return a deposit.

Unfortunately too many landlords fail to properly protect a deposit and this rightly gives tenants access to a compensatory scheme which we at Express Solicitors are able to advise on.”

Ryan strongly believes that too many people have to live in extremely poor and potentially dangerous conditions due to landlords failing to adequately maintain the properties in which tenants live. Despite tenants reporting problems to landlords, issues are often left unresolved for long periods of time. Fortunately a housing disrepair claim can be brought in these circumstances and tenants can recover compensation for the conditions they have had to endure, and landlords can be forced to make repairs that are needed to the property.

Ryan and his extremely knowledgeable team are able to offer advice in relation to these issues.

Ryan Postlethwaite in the news

The Business Desk. People: KPMG; GCA Altium; Express Solicitors; M247; Hope Capital

Email RyanLinkedIn

Hazel Needham

Associate Chartered Legal Executive

Hazel Needham

Associate Chartered Legal Executive

Hazel joined Express Solicitors in January 2021 as a Chartered Legal Executive.

She first studied law aged 17 as part of a business studies course and was captivated by the subject. Much later, while working for a local building society, Hazel transferred to the litigation department and was given the opportunity to study with CILEx. After completing the Diploma in Law, her employer advised there was no business need for her to continue to study. Undeterred and determined to achieve the fellowship qualification, Hazel continued and completed the Higher Diploma, graduating from CILEx in 2013.

A large part of her career has been in financial services, working for several high street banks and building societies. In Hazel’s first role with one of the high street banks, she recalls the introduction of PPI policies and being instructed to sell a policy with every personal loan as this would make the bank a lot of money.

There is no doubt PPI was beneficial to some, however many borrowers had no need for the protection, and most were charged excessive premiums. Plevin claims are an opportunity for the financially injured to receive just recompense and for financial institutions to pay back the commission concealed in the hiked-up premiums. It is being able to restore the unfairness for her clients which is the source of Hazel’s job satisfaction.

Prior to Plevin, Hazel worked in debt recovery, industrial disease and mortgage repossessions. In her last role, she was compared to a combine harvester on the basis that irrespective of whatever obstacles arose, she pushed through unfazed to achieve a good outcome for her clients.
Hazel’s many and diverse life experiences has provided her with the ability to communicate well and empathise with clients in difficult circumstances.

Alongside full-time employment and being married with 2 young sons, Hazel completed the CILEx course in 2013. Despite several enforced role changes and circumstances, her admission as a CILEx fellow was delayed until 2019. She is a secretary for the Greater Manchester CILEx branch.

Email HazelLinkedIn

Robert McKenna

Associate Solicitor

Robert McKenna

Associate Solicitor

Robert is currently a Associate Solicitor in the Consumer Claims Litigation Department. He completed his Law degree, master’s in criminal justice and LPC at Liverpool John Moore’s University.

In August 2018 Robert joined Express Solicitors in the New Client Team, after joining OL/PL he became Ryan Postlethwaite’s litigation assistant. They have worked on cases such as: Equality Act, slips and trips, food poisoning, defective product, dog bite and non-PI/ small claims matters.

During this period, Robert undertook a broad range of advocacy: applications for pre-action disclosure, Infant approval hearings, penal notice applications, alternative dispute resolution hearings, mediation appointments, allocation hearings and small claims trials. He continues to develop his legal skills, communication skills and professional relationships with clients.

In March 2020 Robert began his training contract, during this period he has taken a proactive role with his client care skills, presenting options to clients in clear understandable manner that avoids complex medical and legal terminology, advising of the next steps in their case, developing good working relationships, being approachable and managing client expectations.

Email RobertLinkedIn

Stephen Postlethwaite

Solicitor

Stephen Postlethwaite

Solicitor

Stephen Postlethwaite started working for Express Solicitors in the Consumer Claims Department in February 2021 as a Litigation Executive under the supervision of Ryan Postlethwaite. His primary role is to provide expert legal advice to those unfortunate enough to be living in poor housing conditions.

When asked what he likes best about his job, Stephen replied ‘’As a private renter myself, I understand the frustrations of having a Landlord ignore or otherwise fail to act on your reasonable requests of repair, which can lead to a feeling of helplessness and anger. Fortunately, those living in poor housing conditions are able to advance a Housing Conditions claim against their Landlord. I take pride in being able to obtain justice for tenants who have been wronged by the Landlords in allowing their homes to fall into disrepair’’.

Stephen specialises in Civil Dispute Resolution, Employment Law, Business and Property Law, Intellectual Property Law and Offences Against the Person.

Stephen was asked how he makes a difference in his role and shared ‘’ I am a very empathetic person which allows me to build a strong rapport with the people I represent. I am also very pragmatic which allows me to build a rapport with my fellow professionals. I am driven to succeed and will stop at nothing to achieve my goals’’.

Academically, Stephen achieved his bachelor’s degree in law back in 2015 and has recently completed his master’s degree together with the legal practice course in 2020.

Email StephenLinkedIn

Qasim Hussain

Trainee Solicitor

Qasim Hussain

Trainee Solicitor

Qasim is currently a Trainee Solicitor in the Consumer Claims Litigation Department, more specifically the Debt Recovery Department working under Ryan Postlethwaite and Robert McKenna.

Qasim found his passion for Law from early when he completed 2 week work experience in year 10 and felt like he knew what he wanted. He has since completed his Law degree, as well as his LPC from the University of Central Lancashire.

Qasim specialises in Debt Recovery and enjoys recovering Debts for the Client. He has 3 years previous experience prior to joining Express in February 2022, however under the guidance of Ryan and Rob he is honing his skills and improving every day and started off as a Litigation Assistant to now Trainee Solicitor.

During his time at Express, Qasim has undertook many interesting tasks i.e Mediation appointment, drafting witness statements, small claims work and dispute resolution and continues to develop his Legal skills and maintain a professional relationship with staff and Clients.

During his spare time Qasim enjoys playing and watching football and has attended football with Express Solicitors as well as team night outs. He is very much enjoying my time at Express.

Email Qasim

Lewis Davison

Trainee Solicitor

Lewis Davison

Trainee Solicitor

Lewis is a Trainee Solicitor within the Consumer Claims Litigation department. He joined as a Litigation Assistant in October 2021, having graduated from Bangor University with a First Class Honours in Law (LLB). He has also completed the Legal Practice Course.

Before joining Express Solicitors, he worked at a leading claimant law firm on a large ‘group claim’ against Sainsbury’s Plc, where he was entrusted with the general administration of the claim and obtaining disclosure from the comparators to support their equal pay claim.

Currently, he works predominantly on Landlord and Tenant matters where he handles claims from the pre-legal stage to trial and/or settlement. He has expertise in breach of tenancy deposit regulations; breaches of lease covenants; property dilapidations; breaches of HMO licensing; and other pertinent matters. He has a particular interest in enforcement of judgments, especially in circumstances where judgment debts are actively evaded by debtors. His acute attention to detail and aptitude for investigation has led to many substantial recoveries in circumstances, where recovery seemed unlikely. This approach has attracted many favourable comments from satisfied clients as a result of securing the monies owed to them.

He enjoys travelling, having travelled to over 30 countries over 5 continents. He enjoyed travel around South East Asia, in particular Kuala Lumpur and Bali.

He is an avid Wrexham A.F.C supporter

Email LewisLinkedIn

Emma Hudson

Trainee Solicitor

Emma Hudson

Trainee Solicitor

Emma is a Trainee Solicitor in the Commercial Claims Litigation department working under Ryan Postlethwaite and Hazel Needham. She graduated Leeds Beckett University in 2019 with an LLB and then graduated from the University of Law with her LLM and LPC.

Her primary role is to provide expert legal advice to those who believe they have been financially mis sold a financial product.

Before joining Express in January 2022 Emma has had 2 years’ experience in working in Commercial Litigation Claims, however under the guidance of the team she has been able to thoroughly develop my knowledge and skills in litigation which has allowed her to advance from a litigation assistant to a Trainee Solicitor within the firm.

Emma has always been passionate about pursuing a career in law as she has always wanted to help others and make a difference to people’s lives in a positive way.

In Emma’s spare time she enjoys playing football and is an avid supporter of Sheffield United.

Email EmmaLinkedIn

Zanis Zaraks

Trainee Solicitor

Zanis Zaraks

Trainee Solicitor

Zanis Zaraks joined Express Solicitors in February 2021 and is currently a Trainee solicitor in our Consumer Claims Litigation Team.

Zanis completed his law degree at Newcastle University, achieving first-class honours. During his degree, he spent one year at the National University of Singapore, studying commercial and maritime law. After graduating, Zanis further completed a Masters’ Degree in law at Swansea University, achieving distinction.

Currently, Zanis is studying for SQE at BPP University with a view to qualifying as a Solicitor at Express.

Zanis undertakes a variety of civil and commercial litigation, which involves subrogated property damage recoveries, residential landlord & tenant disputes and general in-house work, spanning across all three tracks.

In particular, Zanis focuses on complex disputes, such as where a significant counterclaim is advanced, where concerted effort has been made to obscure one’s liability (e.g. via fraud and sham agreements) and where the opposing party is being pursued outside the jurisdiction.

Email ZanisLinkedIn

Vivien Chow

Trainee Solicitor

Vivien Chow

Trainee Solicitor

Vivien started off as a Trainee Solicitor in January 2023 in the Consumer Claims Litigation Department. She commenced her training contract in August 2023 and is currently a Trainee Solicitor working in the Debt Recovery Department.

Vivien started off her legal journey completing Law and Business Studies at the University of Liverpool, before completing her Graduate Diploma in Law and her Legal Practice Course with an LLM at the University of Law.

Prior to joining Express Solicitors, Vivien’s experience was mainly in Group Litigation Class Action claims. She strives to deliver high performance and continuously demonstrates tenacity and grit in the challenges she faces.

During her free time, she enjoys travelling, dining out and spending time with her dog.

Email Vivien

Ruairi Blaney

Trainee Solicitor

Ruairi Blaney

Trainee Solicitor

Hailing from Northern Ireland, Ruairi embarked on his legal journey at Queen’s University, graduating in 2020 with a commendable 2:1 in Law with Politics. He pursued a Master’s in Law at Queen’s University Belfast, achieving a distinction in 2021.

In March 2023, Ruairi joined Express, contributing his skills to the Consumer Credit Litigation (CCL) department. Concurrently, he is diligently pursuing part-time studies for the SQE qualification, furthering his legal acumen.

Ruairi finds fulfilment in assisting clients from lower socio-economic backgrounds in asserting their legal rights against landlords. This aspect of his work proves challenging yet profoundly rewarding.

Beyond his legal pursuits, Ruairi finds joy and fulfilment as a devoted player and manager for Oisins GAA Manchester, showcasing his commitment both on and off the field.

Email Ruairi

Zoe Martin

Trainee Solicitor

Zoe Martin

Trainee Solicitor

As a trainee solicitor in the CCL department, Zoe graduated from the Open University in 2022, achieving first-class honors in Law. Currently enrolled in the apprentice scheme with BPP, she is diligently preparing to sit for the SQE next year.

Zoe finds great satisfaction in collaborating with her team, relishing the dynamic nature of her work where no two days are alike. Every day presents an opportunity for learning and growth.

In 2011, Zoe studied with the London Institute of Banking & Finance, earning a Certificate of Higher Education in Financial Advisers. During her time at the Open University, she distinguished herself as the runner-up at the Gary Slapper Mooting Competition 2012 and ranked in the top 15% in the Open University Novice Moot.

Email Zoe

Colin Wilkinson

Trainee Solicitor

Colin Wilkinson

Trainee Solicitor

Colin Wilkinson works for Express Solicitors as a Senior Litigation Executive within the within the Consumer Claims Department working under Ryan Postlethwaite.

He achieved a bachelor’s degree in law back in 2018, studying part time alongside full time employment. He is currently in his second year of his legal practice course with a master’s degree at John Moore’s University. Balancing studying alongside full time employment is challenging but at the same time rewarding.

Colin chose a career in law as he is passionate about helping people and take pride in being able to help people seek the justice they deserve.

For the past 3 years Colin have worked on Housing Condition claims, helping tenants whose homes have fallen into disrepair due to their landlords negligence achieve justice.

In his spare time he enjoys watching and playing football, he’s an avid Liverpool FC supporter, and keeping fit. He has completed a number of events such as Tough Mudder, and the Great Manchester Run.

Email Colin

Sophie Sheppard

Trainee Solicitor

Sophie Sheppard

Trainee Solicitor

Sophie, a dedicated trainee solicitor in the Consumer Claims Department, embarked on her legal journey after completing the Graduate Diploma in Law at Manchester Metropolitan University in 2023. Prior to joining Express Solicitors in July 2023, she generously volunteered her time with Support Through Court Manchester and Citizens Advice Manchester, honing her skills in assisting those in need.

Having been promoted to Trainee Solicitor in January 2024, Sophie specializes in Housing Disrepair Claims, where her passion for delivering exceptional service shines through. Her commitment to her clients, many of whom are facing challenging circumstances, is unwavering as she strives to make a positive impact in their lives.

Outside of work, Sophie finds solace in the pages of a good book or the exploration of new destinations.

Email Sophie

Maryanna Diala

Trainee Solicitor

Maryanna Diala

Trainee Solicitor

Maryanna is a dedicated legal professional with a passion for justice and a commitment to helping others. She embarked on her journey in law at the University of Salford, where she achieved a First Class Honours degree in Law. During her time at university, Maryanna also generously volunteered at the Citizens Advice Bureau, providing invaluable assistance to individuals navigating housing and benefits issues.

Building upon her academic success, Maryanna pursued further legal education, obtaining her LPC with a Masters at the prestigious University of Law in Manchester. Eager to put her knowledge into practice, she joined Express as a Litigation Assistant in May 2023 and has since progressed to the role of Trainee as of March 2024.

Before her tenure at Express, Maryanna gained invaluable experience in Clinical Negligence at a claimant law firm. This background underscores her versatility and depth of expertise within the legal field.

Maryanna’s career path is driven by her unwavering commitment to advocacy and assisting those in need. She specializes in Housing Disrepair claims, championing the rights of clients residing in properties plagued by neglectful landlords. Having personally encountered the challenges of dealing with unresponsive landlords, Maryanna empathizes deeply with her clients and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the justice and support they deserve.

Beyond her legal pursuits, Maryanna finds joy in an active lifestyle, regularly attending gym classes and indulging her passion for baking. She also relishes the opportunity to explore new destinations, embracing a spirit of adventure in her leisure time.

Email Maryanna

Lee Ginty

Legal Secretary

Lee Ginty

Legal Secretary

Lee joined Express Solicitors as a Legal Secretary in March 2021 in the Consumer Claims Department. He predominantly works for the Landlord and Tenant Department currently but is also the support for the whole of the CCL Team.

During his numerous years of employment, Lee has undertaken all kinds of office roles ranging from Office Junior to Personal Assistant but enjoys working within the legal profession as it gives him the satisfaction of knowing he is helping clients.

As a Legal Secretary, Lee works hard and strives to provide an excellent service for colleagues and clients.

Email Lee

Claire Beardmore

Personal Assistant

Claire Beardmore

Personal Assistant

Email Claire

Ryan Postlethwaite

Head of Consumer Claims Litigation

READ BIO

Ryan Postlethwaite joined Express Solicitors in August 2013 and is head of our Consumer Claims Litigation Team specialising in housing disrepair and tenancy deposit cases.

Ryan started in our new client team, before quickly being promoted to the role of Litigation Executive and then Trainee Solicitor in September 2014. Ryan qualified as a Solicitor in September 2016.

Ryan enjoys advocacy and attained his higher rights of audience in 2016, allowing him to practise as a Solicitor Advocate. He believes that court advocacy is an extremely important skill that can often make or break a case and he relishes the opportunity to put persuasive arguments before judges on behalf of his clients.

Ryan has advised Express solicitors on a number of high value transactions and has astute commercial awareness. When acting for clients in housing disrepair and tenancy deposit claims, this allows him to stay one step ahead of Defendants and provide excellent tactical advice in relation to their claim.

Ryan has a particular interest in enforcement of debts and tries to think outside of the box when trying to recover debts on behalf of clients. He says “winning a case and obtaining an order that someone must pay you compensation is only half the battle. Where a person or company is uninsured, actually recovering money can be extremely difficult. Every single attempt at enforcing a court order is individual and particular regard must be had in relation to the person that owes the debt. In disputes involving landlords, a particularly important tool to employ can be that of applying for a charging order over a property owned by the landlord.

This can give rise to a possession order which would allow a client to take possession of the property and sell it to satisfy the debt.

In relation to tenancy deposit claims, Ryan notes that “the requirement for deposits to be protected is there to protect tenants who have assured short hold tenancies and ensure that they have redress at the end of a tenancy should landlords not return a deposit.

Unfortunately too many landlords fail to properly protect a deposit and this rightly gives tenants access to a compensatory scheme which we at Express Solicitors are able to advise on.”

Ryan strongly believes that too many people have to live in extremely poor and potentially dangerous conditions due to landlords failing to adequately maintain the properties in which tenants live. Despite tenants reporting problems to landlords, issues are often left unresolved for long periods of time. Fortunately a housing disrepair claim can be brought in these circumstances and tenants can recover compensation for the conditions they have had to endure, and landlords can be forced to make repairs that are needed to the property.

Ryan and his extremely knowledgeable team are able to offer advice in relation to these issues.

Ryan Postlethwaite in the news

The Business Desk. People: KPMG; GCA Altium; Express Solicitors; M247; Hope Capital

Hazel Needham

Associate Chartered Legal Executive

READ BIO

Hazel joined Express Solicitors in January 2021 as a Chartered Legal Executive.

She first studied law aged 17 as part of a business studies course and was captivated by the subject. Much later, while working for a local building society, Hazel transferred to the litigation department and was given the opportunity to study with CILEx. After completing the Diploma in Law, her employer advised there was no business need for her to continue to study. Undeterred and determined to achieve the fellowship qualification, Hazel continued and completed the Higher Diploma, graduating from CILEx in 2013.

A large part of her career has been in financial services, working for several high street banks and building societies. In Hazel’s first role with one of the high street banks, she recalls the introduction of PPI policies and being instructed to sell a policy with every personal loan as this would make the bank a lot of money.

There is no doubt PPI was beneficial to some, however many borrowers had no need for the protection, and most were charged excessive premiums. Plevin claims are an opportunity for the financially injured to receive just recompense and for financial institutions to pay back the commission concealed in the hiked-up premiums. It is being able to restore the unfairness for her clients which is the source of Hazel’s job satisfaction.

Prior to Plevin, Hazel worked in debt recovery, industrial disease and mortgage repossessions. In her last role, she was compared to a combine harvester on the basis that irrespective of whatever obstacles arose, she pushed through unfazed to achieve a good outcome for her clients.
Hazel’s many and diverse life experiences has provided her with the ability to communicate well and empathise with clients in difficult circumstances.

Alongside full-time employment and being married with 2 young sons, Hazel completed the CILEx course in 2013. Despite several enforced role changes and circumstances, her admission as a CILEx fellow was delayed until 2019. She is a secretary for the Greater Manchester CILEx branch.

Robert McKenna

Associate Solicitor

READ BIO

Robert is currently a Associate Solicitor in the Consumer Claims Litigation Department. He completed his Law degree, master’s in criminal justice and LPC at Liverpool John Moore’s University.

In August 2018 Robert joined Express Solicitors in the New Client Team, after joining OL/PL he became Ryan Postlethwaite’s litigation assistant. They have worked on cases such as: Equality Act, slips and trips, food poisoning, defective product, dog bite and non-PI/ small claims matters.

During this period, Robert undertook a broad range of advocacy: applications for pre-action disclosure, Infant approval hearings, penal notice applications, alternative dispute resolution hearings, mediation appointments, allocation hearings and small claims trials. He continues to develop his legal skills, communication skills and professional relationships with clients.

In March 2020 Robert began his training contract, during this period he has taken a proactive role with his client care skills, presenting options to clients in clear understandable manner that avoids complex medical and legal terminology, advising of the next steps in their case, developing good working relationships, being approachable and managing client expectations.

Stephen Postlethwaite

Solicitor

READ BIO

Stephen Postlethwaite started working for Express Solicitors in the Consumer Claims Department in February 2021 as a Litigation Executive under the supervision of Ryan Postlethwaite. His primary role is to provide expert legal advice to those unfortunate enough to be living in poor housing conditions.

When asked what he likes best about his job, Stephen replied ‘’As a private renter myself, I understand the frustrations of having a Landlord ignore or otherwise fail to act on your reasonable requests of repair, which can lead to a feeling of helplessness and anger. Fortunately, those living in poor housing conditions are able to advance a Housing Conditions claim against their Landlord. I take pride in being able to obtain justice for tenants who have been wronged by the Landlords in allowing their homes to fall into disrepair’’.

Stephen specialises in Civil Dispute Resolution, Employment Law, Business and Property Law, Intellectual Property Law and Offences Against the Person.

Stephen was asked how he makes a difference in his role and shared ‘’ I am a very empathetic person which allows me to build a strong rapport with the people I represent. I am also very pragmatic which allows me to build a rapport with my fellow professionals. I am driven to succeed and will stop at nothing to achieve my goals’’.

Academically, Stephen achieved his bachelor’s degree in law back in 2015 and has recently completed his master’s degree together with the legal practice course in 2020.

Qasim Hussain

Trainee Solicitor

READ BIO

Qasim is currently a Trainee Solicitor in the Consumer Claims Litigation Department, more specifically the Debt Recovery Department working under Ryan Postlethwaite and Robert McKenna.

Qasim found his passion for Law from early when he completed 2 week work experience in year 10 and felt like he knew what he wanted. He has since completed his Law degree, as well as his LPC from the University of Central Lancashire.

Qasim specialises in Debt Recovery and enjoys recovering Debts for the Client. He has 3 years previous experience prior to joining Express in February 2022, however under the guidance of Ryan and Rob he is honing his skills and improving every day and started off as a Litigation Assistant to now Trainee Solicitor.

During his time at Express, Qasim has undertook many interesting tasks i.e Mediation appointment, drafting witness statements, small claims work and dispute resolution and continues to develop his Legal skills and maintain a professional relationship with staff and Clients.

During his spare time Qasim enjoys playing and watching football and has attended football with Express Solicitors as well as team night outs. He is very much enjoying my time at Express.

Lewis Davison

Trainee Solicitor

READ BIO

Lewis is a Trainee Solicitor within the Consumer Claims Litigation department. He joined as a Litigation Assistant in October 2021, having graduated from Bangor University with a First Class Honours in Law (LLB). He has also completed the Legal Practice Course.

Before joining Express Solicitors, he worked at a leading claimant law firm on a large ‘group claim’ against Sainsbury’s Plc, where he was entrusted with the general administration of the claim and obtaining disclosure from the comparators to support their equal pay claim.

Currently, he works predominantly on Landlord and Tenant matters where he handles claims from the pre-legal stage to trial and/or settlement. He has expertise in breach of tenancy deposit regulations; breaches of lease covenants; property dilapidations; breaches of HMO licensing; and other pertinent matters. He has a particular interest in enforcement of judgments, especially in circumstances where judgment debts are actively evaded by debtors. His acute attention to detail and aptitude for investigation has led to many substantial recoveries in circumstances, where recovery seemed unlikely. This approach has attracted many favourable comments from satisfied clients as a result of securing the monies owed to them.

He enjoys travelling, having travelled to over 30 countries over 5 continents. He enjoyed travel around South East Asia, in particular Kuala Lumpur and Bali.

He is an avid Wrexham A.F.C supporter

Emma Hudson

Trainee Solicitor

READ BIO

Emma is a Trainee Solicitor in the Commercial Claims Litigation department working under Ryan Postlethwaite and Hazel Needham. She graduated Leeds Beckett University in 2019 with an LLB and then graduated from the University of Law with her LLM and LPC.

Her primary role is to provide expert legal advice to those who believe they have been financially mis sold a financial product.

Before joining Express in January 2022 Emma has had 2 years’ experience in working in Commercial Litigation Claims, however under the guidance of the team she has been able to thoroughly develop my knowledge and skills in litigation which has allowed her to advance from a litigation assistant to a Trainee Solicitor within the firm.

Emma has always been passionate about pursuing a career in law as she has always wanted to help others and make a difference to people’s lives in a positive way.

In Emma’s spare time she enjoys playing football and is an avid supporter of Sheffield United.

Zanis Zaraks

Trainee Solicitor

READ BIO

Zanis Zaraks joined Express Solicitors in February 2021 and is currently a Trainee solicitor in our Consumer Claims Litigation Team.

Zanis completed his law degree at Newcastle University, achieving first-class honours. During his degree, he spent one year at the National University of Singapore, studying commercial and maritime law. After graduating, Zanis further completed a Masters’ Degree in law at Swansea University, achieving distinction.

Currently, Zanis is studying for SQE at BPP University with a view to qualifying as a Solicitor at Express.

Zanis undertakes a variety of civil and commercial litigation, which involves subrogated property damage recoveries, residential landlord & tenant disputes and general in-house work, spanning across all three tracks.

In particular, Zanis focuses on complex disputes, such as where a significant counterclaim is advanced, where concerted effort has been made to obscure one’s liability (e.g. via fraud and sham agreements) and where the opposing party is being pursued outside the jurisdiction.

Vivien Chow

Trainee Solicitor

READ BIO

Vivien started off as a Trainee Solicitor in January 2023 in the Consumer Claims Litigation Department. She commenced her training contract in August 2023 and is currently a Trainee Solicitor working in the Debt Recovery Department.

Vivien started off her legal journey completing Law and Business Studies at the University of Liverpool, before completing her Graduate Diploma in Law and her Legal Practice Course with an LLM at the University of Law.

Prior to joining Express Solicitors, Vivien’s experience was mainly in Group Litigation Class Action claims. She strives to deliver high performance and continuously demonstrates tenacity and grit in the challenges she faces.

During her free time, she enjoys travelling, dining out and spending time with her dog.

Ruairi Blaney

Trainee Solicitor

READ BIO

Hailing from Northern Ireland, Ruairi embarked on his legal journey at Queen’s University, graduating in 2020 with a commendable 2:1 in Law with Politics. He pursued a Master’s in Law at Queen’s University Belfast, achieving a distinction in 2021.

In March 2023, Ruairi joined Express, contributing his skills to the Consumer Credit Litigation (CCL) department. Concurrently, he is diligently pursuing part-time studies for the SQE qualification, furthering his legal acumen.

Ruairi finds fulfilment in assisting clients from lower socio-economic backgrounds in asserting their legal rights against landlords. This aspect of his work proves challenging yet profoundly rewarding.

Beyond his legal pursuits, Ruairi finds joy and fulfilment as a devoted player and manager for Oisins GAA Manchester, showcasing his commitment both on and off the field.

Zoe Martin

Trainee Solicitor

READ BIO

As a trainee solicitor in the CCL department, Zoe graduated from the Open University in 2022, achieving first-class honors in Law. Currently enrolled in the apprentice scheme with BPP, she is diligently preparing to sit for the SQE next year.

Zoe finds great satisfaction in collaborating with her team, relishing the dynamic nature of her work where no two days are alike. Every day presents an opportunity for learning and growth.

In 2011, Zoe studied with the London Institute of Banking & Finance, earning a Certificate of Higher Education in Financial Advisers. During her time at the Open University, she distinguished herself as the runner-up at the Gary Slapper Mooting Competition 2012 and ranked in the top 15% in the Open University Novice Moot.

Colin Wilkinson

Trainee Solicitor

READ BIO

Colin Wilkinson works for Express Solicitors as a Senior Litigation Executive within the within the Consumer Claims Department working under Ryan Postlethwaite.

He achieved a bachelor’s degree in law back in 2018, studying part time alongside full time employment. He is currently in his second year of his legal practice course with a master’s degree at John Moore’s University. Balancing studying alongside full time employment is challenging but at the same time rewarding.

Colin chose a career in law as he is passionate about helping people and take pride in being able to help people seek the justice they deserve.

For the past 3 years Colin have worked on Housing Condition claims, helping tenants whose homes have fallen into disrepair due to their landlords negligence achieve justice.

In his spare time he enjoys watching and playing football, he’s an avid Liverpool FC supporter, and keeping fit. He has completed a number of events such as Tough Mudder, and the Great Manchester Run.

Sophie Sheppard

Trainee Solicitor

READ BIO

Sophie, a dedicated trainee solicitor in the Consumer Claims Department, embarked on her legal journey after completing the Graduate Diploma in Law at Manchester Metropolitan University in 2023. Prior to joining Express Solicitors in July 2023, she generously volunteered her time with Support Through Court Manchester and Citizens Advice Manchester, honing her skills in assisting those in need.

Having been promoted to Trainee Solicitor in January 2024, Sophie specializes in Housing Disrepair Claims, where her passion for delivering exceptional service shines through. Her commitment to her clients, many of whom are facing challenging circumstances, is unwavering as she strives to make a positive impact in their lives.

Outside of work, Sophie finds solace in the pages of a good book or the exploration of new destinations.

Maryanna Diala

Trainee Solicitor

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Maryanna is a dedicated legal professional with a passion for justice and a commitment to helping others. She embarked on her journey in law at the University of Salford, where she achieved a First Class Honours degree in Law. During her time at university, Maryanna also generously volunteered at the Citizens Advice Bureau, providing invaluable assistance to individuals navigating housing and benefits issues.

Building upon her academic success, Maryanna pursued further legal education, obtaining her LPC with a Masters at the prestigious University of Law in Manchester. Eager to put her knowledge into practice, she joined Express as a Litigation Assistant in May 2023 and has since progressed to the role of Trainee as of March 2024.

Before her tenure at Express, Maryanna gained invaluable experience in Clinical Negligence at a claimant law firm. This background underscores her versatility and depth of expertise within the legal field.

Maryanna’s career path is driven by her unwavering commitment to advocacy and assisting those in need. She specializes in Housing Disrepair claims, championing the rights of clients residing in properties plagued by neglectful landlords. Having personally encountered the challenges of dealing with unresponsive landlords, Maryanna empathizes deeply with her clients and is dedicated to ensuring they receive the justice and support they deserve.

Beyond her legal pursuits, Maryanna finds joy in an active lifestyle, regularly attending gym classes and indulging her passion for baking. She also relishes the opportunity to explore new destinations, embracing a spirit of adventure in her leisure time.

Lee Ginty

Legal Secretary

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Lee joined Express Solicitors as a Legal Secretary in March 2021 in the Consumer Claims Department. He predominantly works for the Landlord and Tenant Department currently but is also the support for the whole of the CCL Team.

During his numerous years of employment, Lee has undertaken all kinds of office roles ranging from Office Junior to Personal Assistant but enjoys working within the legal profession as it gives him the satisfaction of knowing he is helping clients.

As a Legal Secretary, Lee works hard and strives to provide an excellent service for colleagues and clients.

Claire Beardmore

Personal Assistant

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