Newport-based law firm, Harding Evans, has recruited three new trainee solicitors as part of its continuing expansion in the South Wales legal market.

The latest intake brings to seven the number of trainees undertaking a training contract with the ambitious legal practice which aims to double its existing staff to over 200 within five years.

The new recruits are Rachael Jessop, 25, a graduate in European Law from the University of East Anglia and Nottingham Law School Humaira Saleemi, 23, who graduated from the University of the West of England in Bristol and Cardiff University graduate, Owen Williams, 24.

Rachael is engaged in residential conveyancing, while Humaira works with the firm’s personal injury and medical negligence department and Owen is involved in dispute resolution work.

Ken Thomas, Partner and Board Member commented: “This is the highest number of trainee solicitors we have taken on at any one time and it reflects the strong growth we have experienced. We expect this growth to continue as we claim a larger share of commercial and private client work in the regional market as well as continuing to deliver a high quality service and meet clients expectations.”

The latest Legal 500 rankings, just published, confirmed Harding Evan’s position as the eighth largest law firm in Wales and the second largest outside Cardiff.