Star solicitor to CEOs, investment bankers, sports stars, supermodels and entertainers, Bedford established Lee & Thompson’s family team from a standing start in 2007. Now a top-tier practice, it’s attracting top talent (and clients) from established firms (Bedford’s own previous employer was Mishcon de Reya).
A respected leader among the profession’s young and vibrant new guard, the practice head is a specialist in complex finance matters and private law children cases. She says her priority is to always reduce ‘strain, stress and emotional turmoil’. ‘We are nipping at the heels of our well-established competitors and we are doing things differently. Our only focus is the outcome for the client, not ourselves,’ she says.
‘Our aim is for a more professional and responsible culture — internally and externally — something that is lacking in the profession as a whole. It can only benefit the client, and it is bringing about great results.’
Warm and engaging, the Canadian Oxford graduate is described by one peer as ‘an iron fist in a velvet glove’. Clients are equally effusive, crediting her dedication and intellect. One Wall Street veteran was particularly impressed after Bedford took over from a firm that had ‘made a shambles’ of his partner’s case. ‘She was superlative on all counts,’ he said. ‘A quick and accurate study, insightful and tactically smart. I would recommend her most strongly.’