We are sad to say that the time has come for our Senior Partner, Jacqueline Alderton, to announce her retirement. Jacqueline will be retiring on 31 March 2026.
Jacqueline’s legal career spans more than 40 years, starting as a barrister for the first few years before becoming a solicitor. Jacqueline joined the firm (then Penman Johnson) in 1992, becoming a Partner in 1996 and Senior Partner following the merger with Sedgwick Kelly to form Penman Sedgwick LLP in 2013.
Announcing her decision Jacqueline says, “it has not been an easy decision, but I have decided this is a good time to step down and I look forward (I think!) to the next chapter of my life. It will be a big change for me. I will greatly miss working alongside my current partners, our very loyal and hardworking staff, clients, Counsel and their clerks as well as other professionals including experts in various disciplines. I wish the firm every continued success going forward”.
Over the years Jacqueline has formed deep relationships with many barristers, other solicitors and clerks. One commented, “after so many years of dedicated service to your firm and the people of Hertfordshire, achieving terrific results even when facing your own difficulties, you have more than earned a restful retirement. For exactly the same reasons, your departure will be a great loss, and I know that legal services in Hertfordshire will be very different without you”.
Family Law Partner Stuart Mercer said: “I have worked with Jacqueline for 20 years, 16 as a Partner, and it will be a very sad day when her name is no longer on the letterhead. Over that time her dedication to clients and staff alike has been extraordinary and she has provided valued counsel to me personally on many occasions. She will be missed greatly.”
As Penman Sedgwick LLP enters into the exciting merger with EMW Law (see our other recent news item) we will have to do it without Jacqueline by our side.
Everyone at Penman Sedgwick LLP wishes Jacqueline a happy and long retirement with her husband John, and let’s hope that her beloved Arsenal can finally provide her with another retirement gift come the end of the season.