A city firm has hired three new members of staff who will strengthen their expertise as it continues to grow across key areas of practice.
Gibson Kerr has welcomed Phil Bonnar as a Senior Associate in the Family Law team, Emma Kennie as a Purchase & Sale Negotiator and Appraiser in the Property team, and Faye Lipton as a Senior Solicitor in the Family Law team.
Briege Valentine has also been promoted to Senior Solicitor in the firm’s Personal Law team.
Phil brings extensive experience, having initially trained in Edinburgh, practising in Glasgow for three years following his traineeship and thereafter moving to Russel + Aitken, in both Falkirk and Alloa, where he remained for eight and half years and served as Director and Head of the Court Department for the latter three years.
With an impressive career and depth of experience in family law, general litigation, commercial litigation and debt recovery, he is a vital asset to Gibson Kerr.
Phil was drawn to the continued growth and expansion of Gibson Kerr, he said: “I am excited for this new challenge, I am looking forward to building on my existing skills, experience and reputation.”
Phil views the move to Gibson Kerr as an opportunity to progress his career and build on his growing reputation within the legal sector, he added: “I’m from Edinburgh, and moving back here at this stage in my career just feels like the right step, at the right time.
“It is a coup to be joining a firm with an established reputation and I am looking forward to this new chapter.”
Fiona Rasmusen, Partner and Head of Family Law, said: “Phil brings with him an array of experience in family law, he is extremely experienced and has worked across Scotland.
“He possesses a strong understanding of the law and takes a pragmatic approach, negotiating effectively on behalf of clients. His appointment adds significant depth and strength to our department.”
With well-established offices in both Edinburgh and Glasgow, the firm continues to see growing demand across all areas of practice.
Across Family, Personal, and Property Law, the firm’s team has expanded to 36 professionals, reflecting its ongoing growth and commitment to delivering high-quality legal services.
With a heritage of more than a century, the firm remains focused on steady, sustainable expansion while upholding its reputation for expert advice and exceptional client care.
