Meet the Team from Heyman & Co

In October we welcomed the team from Heyman & Co to the Butcher & Barlow family. The merger wasn’t just about combining expertise – it was about bringing together people who share a passion for helping clients and a dedication to exceptional service. We wanted to take a moment to introduce you to three key members of the team: Karen Baker, Kirsty Frain, and Michael Caplin. Their stories give a glimpse into the talent joining our Firm, as well as the personalities behind the names.

Karen Baker’s career is nothing short of inspiring. She began working in law at just 16 and had passed her legal executive exams by 20. That early start gave her a head start in understanding the industry, and by 1996 she had qualified as a Solicitor, becoming a Partner at Heyman & Co in 1998. She began building a thriving residential property practice, although she also has experience in criminal, personal injury and divorce Law. Known for her straight-talking, no-nonsense approach, Karen has always focused on putting clients first, even amidst the ever-growing challenges of the legal world.

For Karen, the decision to merge was driven by a desire to navigate increasing regulatory pressures with the right support and infrastructure. She’s quick to acknowledge the challenges of adapting to a new environment but sees this as an opportunity to collaborate and integrate her client-centric approach into Butcher & Barlow’s culture. When asked what advice she’d give to anyone starting out in law, her answer was clear: “Find a niche you’re passionate about and make it your own.” Karen’s dedication to her clients and her craft makes her a natural fit for Butcher & Barlow.

Kirsty Frain’s journey into law took a less conventional route but is no less remarkable. After starting her legal studies at Manchester University, she realised the traditional academic path wasn’t for her and instead began working as a legal cashier at Heyman & Co in 2010.  Within months, a secretarial role had become available and Kirsty took upon that role and studied part time to qualify as a Solicitor while managing full-time work and raising two children. It’s no surprise that her colleagues admire her determination and resilience.

Kirsty credits much of her growth to Karen, who became a mentor and source of inspiration during her journey. Since qualifying as a Solicitor in 2021, Kirsty has focused on residential property, an area of law she is passionate about. Although moving to a larger firm brings new challenges, Kirsty is excited to meet new colleagues, learn from their experience, and continue delivering the kind of personalised service she’s become known for. She’s ambitious but grounded, aiming to balance her career goals with a fulfilling family life. Her advice for those just starting out? “Don’t let the pressure get to you – your career is a marathon, not a sprint.”

Michael Caplin’s story takes us back further. He joined Heyman & Co on March 17, 1975, and over nearly five decades, he’s been a constant presence through the firm’s growth and evolution. Starting out as a general practitioner, Michael eventually specialised in contentious work before shifting his focus to residential and commercial property.

When you speak with Michael, it’s clear how much he values the relationships he’s built over the years – with clients, colleagues, and Partners like Karen. For him, the merger is a chance to ensure continuity for clients whilst preparing for his own retirement.  Michael’s warmth and wisdom shines through in his reflections on the Firm’s culture, which he describes as one of teamwork and mutual understanding. He is still eager to support the next generation of Lawyers and looks forward to mentoring those who can benefit from his decades of experience.

Each of these individuals brings something special to Butcher & Barlow. Karen’s straightforward approach, Kirsty’s relentless drive, and Michael’s depth of experience are just the beginning. As they settle into their new roles, we’re excited to see how their talents and perspectives enhance our Team. Most importantly, we’re thrilled to welcome not just colleagues, but people who share our commitment to making a positive impact on clients’ lives.