solicitors by farm gate
Out and aboutn in the Staffordshire countryside are, left to right

Appointments boost legal expertise in agriculture sector

1 min read

Staffordshire legal firm Talbots Law has strengthened its rural credentials with the appointment of two senior directors to its fast-growing Agricultural Law team.

Sara Pickerin and Nicholas Playford, who bring more than 40 years’ combined experience in agricultural and rural land law, join as part of the firm’s continued expansion across the Midlands and wider UK. Their arrival takes the number of directors in the specialist team to four.

The duo will support farmers, landowners and rural businesses across England and Wales, advising on everything from land sales and tenancies to the complex legal issues surrounding diversification projects — including solar installations, glamping ventures, farm shops and other income-generating initiatives.

Operating from Talbots’ 19 offices — with strong representation in South Staffordshire, Leek, Worcester, Telford and Market Drayton — the team’s expansion reflects growing demand for strategic legal advice as farms adapt to changing economic and environmental pressures.

Sean Spinetto, Head of Agriculture at Talbots Law, said:

“We’re incredibly proud of the growth we’ve achieved in this specialist area and delighted to welcome Sara and Nicholas to the team. Attracting top talent is a testament to the reputation we’re building in the agricultural sector. Their expertise will help us continue supporting farmers and landowners to futureproof their enterprises for years to come.”

Talbots, founded in 1828 and now an employee-owned firm, has seen revenues rise from £18 million in 2021 to more than £40 million this year.

The firm, which has become a regular presence at agricultural shows across the region, will next showcase its expertise at LAMMA 2026, the UK’s largest farm machinery and technology exhibition at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham.

Hannah Hiles

A journalist and comms professional with an eye for a story, Hannah has more than 20 years' experience in news, features and PR in Staffordshire and the West Midlands.

Latest from Blog