Liverpool law firm Astraea Linskills wins new contract to provide Legal Aid services and unveils new senior hire. Tony McDonough reports

Liverpool law firm Astraea Linskills says it will be able to provide legal services to some of the most vulnerable people in the city after winning a new contract.

City centre-based Astraea has secured what it describes as a “significant” new Legal Aid contract. Legal Aid provides a lifeline for people who would otherwise not be able to afford legal representation.

And the firm has also announced it has hired Kendra McKinney as head of its family law department. Kendra joins from another Liverpool practice, Clyde and Co.

A graduate of the College of Law in Chester she has also worked for Brown Turner Ross and John Cunningham and Associates.

Kendra specialises in high net worth divorce and financial remedy, separation, private and public law children work, advocacy and contested hearings.

Founded as Astraea Legal by lawyer Nama Zarroug in 2016, the firm acquired leading Liverpool criminal law firm Linskills in February 2020 and rebranded as Astraea Linskills. 

Following that deal it relocated from No 5 St Paul’s Square to 14 Castle Street. It purchased the first-floor offices giving it 1,850 sq ft of office space.

Sara Perischine, director at Astraea Linskills said “The award of the significant Legal Aid contract allows our dedicated team to assist an increasing number of clients who would otherwise remain without advice or representation.

“We are delighted to be able to support those people who often need it the most.

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“The appointment of Kendra McKinney is further evidence of Astraea Linskills’ commitment to excellence and growth.

“Kendra is a fantastic addition to the very busy Family team and we know that she brings with her many years of knowledge and experience which will service our clients to the highest  possible standard.”