Here For You
Becky Ricards Small, Managing Partner
Since qualifying in 2002, what has mattered most to Becky is exceptional client service; helping and supporting her clients through often very emotional periods of their lives is at the core of what she does. Over the past 20 years, she has consistently gone above and beyond when supporting clients in need of personal legal advice and it is what makes her remarkable. Becky’s clients like and trust her. They appreciate her sensitive, authentic and careful approach. They welcome her integrity and value her years of experience. Becky has honed her career in personal law, especially in Court of Protection and Mental Capacity cases, Wills, Probate and Estate Planning.
Becky has always had a vision to create a different type of law firm that breaks the mold of the traditional corporate entity. Starting her own law practice has always been a dream for her. Confident she had the dedication, determination and client-centric principles to make the dream a reality, she finally took the leap of faith to start New Wave Law. Becky’s compassionate approach, in an often complex and emotional area of law, is not only refreshing but outstanding. She cares deeply about the individuals, couples and families who New Wave Law advises. Becky, and every valued member of her team, embodies professionalism, kindness, and empathy – everything that New Wave Law stands for.
Outside of her professional life, Becky is married with two children. She loves the outdoors, time spent on the water, skiing, travel and enjoying quality time with family and friends.
Sarah Lawton, Managing Associate Solicitor
Sarah qualified as a solicitor in 2006 and joined New Wave Law in 2024. She brings a wealth of experience and has worked the Wiltshire and Bath areas since qualifying. Sarah advises clients on a broad range of private client matters and specialises in the administration of estates, Lasting Power of Attorneys and Deputyships.
She prides herself on her approachable, empathetic, professional and friendly character. She is pragmatic and sensitive to clients needs, especially in difficult situations.
Outside work, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family and friends, holidays, yoga and going to the beach!
Kirsty Batchelor, Paralegal
Having spent many years in the probation service, working in rehabilitation, compassion and empathy have always been key skills that Kirsty has had to draw on.
With a Graduate Diploma in Law, as well as a certificate in civil and commercial mediation, Kirsty provides practical advice for our clients when they are taking the important steps of estate planning.
Outside of her professional life, Kirsty lives in Bath with her two children. She enjoys reading, cooking, time spent outdoors and with her family and friends.
Sammi Thorpe, Legal Executive
Having graduated with a law degree in 2013, Sammi has worked as both a legal secretary and paralegal and brings great experience to our team. In 2024 she qualified as a chartered CILEX (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives), specialising in Probate.
Sammi has spent the last few years working within a specialist Court of Protection team, where she has gained invaluable experience working with vulnerable and protected adults and children. Sammi is passionate about law, very diligent and a naturally calm practitioner.
Outside of work Sammi loves to spend time with her husband and her three dogs, as well as tending to her garden and enjoying the local wildlife.
Sheila Ricards, Legal Assistant
Sheila Ricards
Legal Assistant
sheila@newwavelaw.co.uk
m: 07961 243333
Sheila is a key part of our Court Protection team working as a Legal Assistant.
She manages the day-to-day contact with clients who have experienced a life-changing event or brain injury. Sheila also does significant work with the elderly and has experience managing relationships with those that suffer from Dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Sheila’s career began in the NHS where she worked for many years at the Royal United Hospital, Bath. In 2022, Sheila played a key part in the launch of New Wave Law and is now an intrinsic member of our Court of Protection Team.
Sheila was born in Bath and is a lifelong supporter of Bath Rugby. She loves spending time with family and watching her grandchildren play rugby and hockey.
Angela Skardon, Office Manager
Angela Skardon
Office Manager
office@newwavelaw.co.uk
m: 07961 243333
With a career in public-facing and administrative roles, Angela creates the personal and reassuring atmosphere that clients are met with when they work with New Wave Law.
Angela’s calm but efficient presence, attention to detail and genuine care were formed when running her own business, prior to joining the Royal United Hospital in Bath, where she spent 16 years in a patient-facing administrative role.
As well as making sure our operations run smoothly, she loves welcoming our clients to the office and keeping our team on track.
Angela joined us in 2024 and we’re never letting her leave!