New Client Team

Laura Edgeley is a Partner at Express Solicitors, having been with the firm since 2006, completing her training contract here and qualifying as a Solicitor in 2008.

Laura became a Partner in 2012. Laura has previously handled a mixed caseload including Road Traffic Accidents and Employers Liability cases although latterly specialised in Occupiers and Public Liability claims with a keen interest in horse riding and other sports related accidents and has previously achieved Law Society specialist Personal Injury Panel member.

Since October 2018 Laura is the Head of our large New Client Team, the first point of contact for all new clients.

Carolyn Mercer is the Manager for the NCT admin team. Carolyn completed her Theatre and Acting degree at the University of Chester in 2014 and began working at Express Solicitors that same summer. Carolyn started as an Enquiries Assistant, moving up to being a Team Leader, and then over to NCT Administration Manager. Carolyn is known in the team for having answers to most questions the team have and is always happy to help her colleagues when they need it.

Carolyn’s favourite thing about working for Express Solicitors is knowing that we are helping people who really need it and might not be able to get help in other places. Her second favourite thing is her colleagues, everyone in the New Client Team and the wider firm are easy to get along with and there’s always a friendly face somewhere.

In her spare time, Carolyn enjoys knitting and crocheting, and if you find her on her lunch break, she will usually be working on her latest project.

Verity started as New Enquiries Specialist, before being promoted to Team Manager in 2018. Outside of the Office Verity is heavily involved in American Football, she’s participated in over ten championships as both a team manager and a player and held the role of general manager for the GB U19 team for the 2018/2019 competition cycle. She currently volunteers as Under 16’s and Under’s19 Competition Delivery and Development Manager for UK’s National League (BAFA).

Before joining the team at Express in 2016- She graduated in 2011 with a BA in Event Management from Manchester Metropolitan University. Her career journey spans over 15 years of customer services, sales, and event management. Verity’s favourite thing about working for Express Solicitors is coaching and developing her team and free cups of tea.

Sophie Barton is a Team Manager in the New Clients Team Department. She graduated in 2012 with a BA in Accounting and Finance at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Sophie started at Express Solicitors in October 2018 as a specialist, before being promoted to Team Manager in January 2020.

When asked what she enjoys most about the role, she advised “It is a dynamic and challenging environment. Always been passionate about justice and helping others. I enjoy seeing my team flourish in their accomplishments. The role allows me to continuously learn and grow from the experiences and no two days are the same”

Toni is a determined professional who graduated from Leeds Beckett University with a Law LLB in 2020. Joining Express as an Enquiries Assistant in March 2022, she swiftly showcased her exceptional communication skills and attention to detail, earning recognition for her dedication to exceptional customer service.

In October 2023, Toni transitioned into the role of Team Manager at NCT, where she leads the coordinator team. Deeply committed to the department’s mission, Toni focuses on team development and enhancing the client experience from the first interaction. She implements strategic initiatives to improve processes and elevate client satisfaction.

Toni’s leadership potential and passion for excellence drive her to continually seek growth opportunities and inspire her colleagues to do the same. With her innovative approach and unwavering dedication, Toni is making a significant impact in her field, setting a high standard of professionalism and leadership.

Since graduating in 1998, Deborah has held various roles encompassing client focus, HR, recruitment, business processes, general management, and training & development.

Her journey began in the Legal Sector in 2005, specializing in Personal Injury. Transitioning to Jefferies in 2011, she initially served as the head of the new enquiries team. By 2021, she assumed the position of Office Manager.

In 2023, with the acquisition of Jefferies Solicitors by Express Solicitors, Deborah joined as the NCT Deputy Department Manager. Here, she leverages her expertise and passions to nurture the team alongside the Department Manager.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Deborah finds joy in activities such as hitting the gym, caring for her cats, indulging in wildlife appreciation, and savoring a glass of wine.