London

(UK, April 2026) – Intellectual property law firm Appleyard Lees is pleased to announce the promotion of Amritjot Jethwa to Partner, recognising her significant contribution to the firm since joining as its first Head of Commercial IP Contracts in November 2023. Amrit has played a key role in formalising, expanding and leading the firm’s commercial IP contracts offering. Working across sectors and advising both new and long-standing clients, she has strengthened the firm’s transactional IP capability and helped shaped the continued growth of this specialist practice area. Her work spans a broad range of clients, from founder-led/early-stage start-ups and SMEs to universities, multinational pharmaceutical and technology businesses, and government departments, on commercially valuable IP transactions. With expertise in drafting and negotiating complex technology in-licensing and exclusive out-licensing agreements, as well as bespoke collaboration agreements, including those for AI-led platforms, she has built a reputation for successfully supporting clients with a reliable blend of technical and commercial advice. Commenting on the promotion, Adam Nabozny, CEO, said: “Amrit has brought a new specialism to the firm which has shown excellent growth since she joined in November 2023. She has shown continual commitment to supporting the development of her work area alongside creating and supporting exciting business development opportunities across sectors. The partnership is really excited about the energy and enthusiasm Amrit will bring to the role and to the firm.” Amrit’s appointment to Partner reflects the firm’s strategic investment in its expanding commercial contracts team, which also includes specialist IP solicitors Chris Hoole, Robert Cumming, Daniel Bailey, and Christopher Thomas. On her appointment, Amrit said: “My journey at Appleyard Lees began with a chance encounter at a local law society event before I joined the firm just over two years ago. From the outset, I was given the opportunity to develop and grow a practice area I care deeply about, supported by an excellent team and strong client relationships. “I’m very grateful for the support and trust I’ve received, and proud of what we’ve achieved together so far. I’m delighted to be joining the partnership; becoming a partner is a special moment and I look forward to contributing to the firm’s continued growth and success.” With her promotion, Amrit will continue to drive the development of the firm’s commercial IP transaction services and support clients navigating increasingly complex IP and technology landscapes. About Appleyard Lees Appleyard Lees is a leading intellectual property law firm with approximately eighty patent and trade mark attorneys, specialist solicitors and litigators. Who we are and what we do – but also, how we do it – makes us distinctive. We help our clients protect and monetise their intellectual property, and manage post-grant challenges, should they arise. We offer broad sector and industry knowledge, plus the ability to adapt our services to specific client requirements, in an agile way. With offices in UK innovation hotspots, we are positioned to give clients expert strategic IP advice in the UK and worldwide.   All media enquiries should be directed to [email protected].

This year Walkers is celebrating 25 years of Walkers operating in Europe – a milestone the firm is proud to mark, reflecting its commitment to the European market and to its ever-expanding European client base. The firm's European story began with the opening of its London office in March 2001, as Walkers’ first international office, establishing a presence in one of the world’s most important financial centres. This laid the foundations for the integrated European platform the firm has today, advising on the laws of the Cayman Islands, British Virgin Islands, Bermuda, Jersey, Guernsey and Ireland. Since 2001, and in particular during the past ten years, the firm has invested significantly into its London, Ireland, Jersey and Guernsey businesses. This investment has been combined with a consistent focus on bringing together market leading lawyers and professionals across all of its disciplines who believe in providing clients with top tier service in a responsive, coordinated and jurisdictionally agnostic manner. The growth in scale of the firm's European business has been phenomenal. The firm's four European offices are now home to over 600 legal and professional services personnel, delivering specialist, integrated advice relating to all aspects of asset management & investment funds, private capital & trusts, banking & finance, corporate, dispute resolution, insolvency & restructuring, employment and regulatory matters, across its six laws, as well as specialist Irish tax advice. The firm is delighted to see that the market leading strength of its European offering, and the coordinated approach it takes to client service, are consistently recognised by its clients as well as the legal directories. In addition to marking 25 years in Europe, this year also sees key milestones across each of the firm's European businesses, including 20 years in Jersey, 10 years in Guernsey and 10 years of Walkers Professional Services in Ireland. Together, these reflect the depth of the firm's long-term investment in Europe and the strength of its integrated offering. Commenting on the milestones, Hughie Wong, managing partner of Walkers' London office, said: 'Celebrating 25 years in Europe is a proud moment for all of us. London was our first step outside the Caribbean and it set the tone for how we operate internationally: operating in the same time zone as our clients, collaborating across offices and focusing on delivering consistently strong outcomes.' 'As we look ahead, we will continue to invest in our people and our platform so we can support clients at the most complex end of the market.' Fraser Hern, head of Walkers' Channel Islands business, added: ‘This year is particularly meaningful for our Channel Islands practice as we mark 20 years in Jersey and 10 years in Guernsey. Our Channel Islands offices form a crucial part of our European platform, supporting clients on complex multi-jurisdictional matters while remaining closely connected to the wider Walkers network. These milestones reflect not only the strength of our local teams, but the benefits of operating as part of an integrated European business.’ Jonathan Sheehan, managing partner of Walkers' Ireland office, said: ‘As we celebrate the milestone anniversaries across our European business, it is a timely opportunity to reflect on the depth of the commitment of our Ireland office to the region. Ireland has become a vital hub within our European offering, and our continued growth here is closely linked to the strength of the platform we have built across the region.’ The firm will recognise these milestones throughout the year, including hosting a client event to celebrate the relationships that have shaped its European journey and continue to drive its success. As the firm moves into the next chapter, it remains focused on strengthening its European offering and continuing to play a leading role in supporting clients with sophisticated, multi-jurisdictional advice.

The UK Global Talent Route is considered the best immigration route for top-tier professionals in academia, research, arts, and digital technology. In 2026, the United Kingdom continues to prioritise attracting world-class talent, offering a visa category distinct from the Skilled Worker route. Notably, this pathway affords successful applicants significant professional autonomy, including exemption from sponsorship requirements and salary thresholds, as well as the liberty to pursue self-employment or business ventures. It is also popular among those who are already in the country and want to switch from a Skilled Worker visa to a Global Talent visa to gain more professional independence. Strategic Benefits of the Route Obtaining a GT visa provides a level of professional autonomy that is simply unattainable for other categories of immigrants. It is considered one of the most flexible visa categories in the UK for the following reasons: No requirement for employer sponsorship. Freedom to change jobs or work as a consultant or freelancer. Ability to establish a business. Fast-track settlement options (as little as 3 years for Exceptional Talent). Ability to bring dependants. No cap on numbers. Нow the Application Works? The application is split into two clear stages. You must pass the first before you can move to the second. Endorsement. You apply to a specific UK body to prove you are a leader (Exceptional Talent) or a rising star (Exceptional Promise) in your field. The visa. Once you have your endorsement, you apply to the Home Office for the actual visa. To simplify the process, you can use specialised tools such as talentvisa.uk to assess your chances. Choosing Your Route Endorsement is available across several disciplines. Each has specific evidence requirements. Global Talent Visa (Tech Nation). This is for experts in fields such as AI, software engineering, and cybersecurity who have helped develop innovative tech products. Global Talent Visa: Science, Medicine, Engineering, Humanities. Managed by the Royal Society, British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering, or UKRI. Fast-track options are available for those with eligible fellowships or senior academic appointments. Global Talent Visa: Film & Television. Processed via PACT. This route requires specific proof of nominations or awards for every production you have contributed to. Other arts sub-routes (Architecture, Fashion, Fine Art) are handled by Arts Council England (ACE). Talent vs. Promise: Which One Fits? You must choose the correct level of seniority when you apply: Exceptional Talent. For people who are already well-established leaders with a proven track record over several years. Exceptional Promise. For those at an earlier stage of their career who can show they have the potential to become a leader. Note: If you are unsure, "Promise" is often a safer choice. Both categories give you the same working rights, though "Talent" allows you to apply for permanent residency (ILR) after three years instead of five. Preparing Your Evidence In 2026, the people reviewing your application want to see quality over quantity. Letters of support. You will need three letters from senior people in your field. They must explain exactly why they believe you are a leader; standard, "copy-paste" letters are usually rejected. Personal statement. This is your chance to explain your plans for the UK and how you will contribute to the UK’s economy or culture. Evidence of recognition. This includes articles in major newspapers, international prizes, or invitations to speak at important industry events. Practical Steps and Costs Endorsement usually takes between 4 and 8 weeks. After that, you have 3 months to apply for the visa itself. You will need to pay the endorsement fee, the visa application fee, and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for each year of the visa. Digital status. Most visas are now fully digital. You will likely receive an eVisa rather than a physical card. Summary The UK Global Talent Route is an excellent choice for anyone at the top of their game. It is not an easy visa to get, but it is one of the most rewarding. By focusing on clear, strong evidence and choosing the right category, you can secure your future in the UK.

Law firm Weightmans has made five new appointments to its insurance practice, bringing specialist expertise across fraud, intelligence, professional indemnity and media. It comes as the team reports 10% revenue growth year-on-year, following strong growth in 2025. Ian McConkey joins as a partner in the firm's Specialty Department in Manchester. Previously a partner and Manchester Location Head at DAC Beachcroft, Ian specialises in disputes, litigation, and professional indemnity claims. He is a recognised expert in media cases and has acted for a major media organisation for over 25 years, including in many high-profile and sensitive matters. Ian has recently been appointed President of Manchester Law Society. James Stevens also joins as a partner in the firm's fraud team. Previously a partner at Kennedys Law, James brings 21 years' experience specialising exclusively in insurance fraud. He has particular expertise in defending high-value organised fraud operations and strategic insurance fraud initiatives across motor, casualty and property claims. James is recognised as a Key Practitioner for Crime and Fraud in the Legal 500 2025. Strategic intelligence investment Weightmans made significant investment in its Intelligence team during early 2026. Ann Dallaway joins from DAC Beachcroft as Fraud and Intelligence Technical Lead, bringing over 22 years' experience as an intelligence specialist. She is joined by two Intelligence Researchers, including Harriet Roman, who also joins from DAC Beachcroft. The appointments build on the 2025 hire of specialist consultant Kate Abrahams, who focuses on intelligence management and ECCTA compliance. Together, they strengthen Weightmans' integrated approach to fraud and intelligence services for insurer clients. Ann will lead the continued development of the firm's fraud and Know Your Opponent (KYO) technology and processes, enhancing the intelligence capability that underpins legal services across the practice. Building on 2025 momentum The appointments follow significant growth during 2025, when the insurance practice made six senior appointments. The team welcomed five partners across Large Loss, Casualty, Clinical Negligence and Motor specialisms, with five internal promotions to senior associate level further strengthening capabilities. Kieran Jones, Head of Insurance at Weightmans, said: "These appointments represent a clear statement of intent about where we're investing. Fraud and intelligence are strategic priorities for us, and we're building capabilities that go well beyond traditional legal services. "Ian's appointment adds significant weight to our Specialty team. With his professional indemnity and media expertise, combined with his role as President of Manchester Law Society, he brings real profile and experience. James strengthens our fraud litigation capability at a time when regulatory changes like ECCTA are creating new challenges for insurers. "The intelligence team expansion is particularly important. Ann's technical expertise and the calibre of people joining demonstrates the ambition we have in this space. We're building an intelligence function that supports not just fraud work but provides valuable insight across all areas of our insurance practice. "These hires give us real momentum as we continue into 2026 with continued focus on expanding international desks and supporting clients through regulatory challenges including Martyn's Law.” ENDS Editor’s Notes Weightmans is a leading law firm with a truly global reach. From FTSE-100 companies to family-owned businesses, from public sector organisations to individuals - we believe in the power of people, innovation and partnership to provide strategic business insight and deep expertise to our clients across the UK and beyond. Weightmans, with 1,700 staff across England, Scotland, and Wales, was named a Top Employer for the 18th time in January 2026, earning a top five spot from the Top Employers Institute. In September 2025, it received EcoVadis’ Gold rating, placing it among the top 5% of law and accounting firms worldwide for ESG and sustainability. In October 2025, it also achieved its highest-ever ranking on the 2025 Social Mobility Employer Index, reaching 15th place in the list. Our purpose is to See the Possibility – in our business, our people and our clients. At Weightmans, we believe thinking differently allows us to see the possibilities others don't. For further information please contact Richard Lackey, PR Manager on 0151 243 3328 or email [email protected]