Chancery Legal Ltd has appointed Aqueelah Simmons as director of litigation.

In her new role, Ms Simmons will oversee Chancery’s litigation practice while continuing to deliver the strategic, practical, and client-focused legal representation for which she is known, the firm said.

The appointment will also give Ms Simmons the opportunity to share her experience, knowledge, and leadership with the next generation of legal professionals.

Ms Simmons will take an active role in mentoring, developing, and empowering emerging attorneys and legal support staff, “fostering a culture of excellence and equipping the firm’s future leaders with the skills, confidence, and professional judgment necessary to excel”, the firm added.

“I’m deeply honoured by the confidence and trust placed in me,” Ms Simmons said. “The journey here has been both rewarding and humbling, marked by growth and some difficult chapters that ultimately shaped me — not only as a lawyer, but as a person.”

She added that she would advocate fearlessly for her clients and remember that “the practice of law is, above all, about people — I want every client to feel heard, respected and exceptionally represented”.

Mark Pettingill, managing director of Chancery, said: “I am extremely proud of Aqueelah. Her work ethic, resilience in the face of conflict and uncertainty, and unwavering commitment to her clients and the firm have been truly impressive.

“She is a tremendous asset to Chancery Legal, and we are extremely fortunate to have her as part of our team.”