Our Partners & Key Staff
The Partners
Edward Smyth
Edward is the Senior Partner of Edward St J Smyth and Co.
He set up the firm in 1991, having previously practised in Northampton and other towns in the East Midlands.
A former pupil of Northampton Grammar School, Edward qualified as a Solicitor in 1981.
He is experienced in litigation, road traffic matters, commercial and residential conveyancing, probate, wills and family law. He handles his clients' problems in an understanding and pragmatic manner and the firm has flourished as a result.
In his spare time Edward has been involved extensively with Old Northamptonians Rugby Club, having played for them since leaving college, as well as taking on coaching duties. He is a keen runner and also enjoys watching rugby, travelling, spending time with his wife and three teenage children, and playing the trombone and euphonium.
Edward is currently President of the Northamptonshire Law Society.
Both Edward and Ray are keen to expand the firm and to increase their provision of legal services in Northampton. To this end, they have acquired the premises next door to the main office. Their intention is to provide an increased level of legal services for the local community, particularly in the areas of family law and commercial law.
For a consultation with Edward, please contact Edward or his Secretary.
Ray Wood
Ray is a partner in the firm.
Ray joined the firm in 1996 having practised previously in Coventry, Nuneaton and Bedworth.
Ray studied at Lanchester Polytechnic in Coventry and qualified as a Solicitor in 1981.
Ray specialises in family law, probate, wills and general litigation.
He has a conciliatory, caring and sympathetic attitude to client's needs and concerns in what is often a traumatic period of their life.
Ray is a member of the Northamptonshire Law Society.
In this spare time Ray enjoys supporting Aston Villa Football Club, reading and spending time with his family. He has previously spent sabbaticals travelling extensively around the world.
For an appointment with Ray, please contact Ray or his Secretary.
Solicitor
Ruth Taylor
Ruth joined the firm in June 2005.
Ruth has worked in a solicitor's office since leaving school and whilst working has studied on a part time basis, qualifying initially as a Legal Executive and subsequently as a Solicitor in November 1997.
Ruth has a wealth of experience specialising in matrimonial matters, to include divorce, separation, financial settlements, living together agreements and children issues. Such issues may relate to married, unmarried and same sex couples.
It is often very daunting having to take the first step to seek advice. Ruth's friendly and caring attitude will help make that first step a little easier.
Ruth is a member of Resolution (formerly The Solicitor's Family Law Association) and the Northamptonshire Law Society.
In her spare time Ruth enjoys watching the Saints Rugby Club, skiing and swimming.
For an appointment with Ruth, please contact Ruth or her Secretary.