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 life 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, specialising in all areas including Court of Protection and Mental Capacity cases, Wills, Probate and Estate planning.
Becky has long had a vision to create a different type of law firm that breaks the mould 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 and lives in Somerset. She loves the outdoors and family dog walks, time spent on the water, skiing, international travel, and enjoying quality time with family and friends.
Sarah Lawton, 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, Paralegal
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. 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.