We’re pleased to announce the appointments of Lois Monks as Head of the Care Department and Melissa Portlock as Head of the Family Department, effective 1st July. 

These promotions complete a series of recent leadership appointments, following Narinder Rathour’s move to Head of the Criminal Department in March 2026. 

These appointments complete a strengthened Head of Department structure, positioning us for our next phase of growth with experienced leadership across key legal specialisms. The appointments also demonstrate our ongoing commitment to developing talent from within: 

• Lois Monks, Director, appointed Head of the Care Department from 1st July 2026 

• Melissa Portlock, Chartered Legal Executive Litigator, appointed Head of the Family Department from 1st July 2026 

• Narinder Rathour, Salaried Partner, appointed Head of the Criminal Department, having taken up the role on 1st March 2026 

Gareth Long, Managing Director, commented: 

“Lois, Melissa and Narinder have demonstrated exceptional commitment and expertise throughout their careers with JWP Solicitors. These appointments recognise the confidence we have in them to lead their respective departments into the future. 

Developing people through the firm has always been a key part of our philosophy, and it is incredibly rewarding to see talented individuals progress into senior leadership roles. I have no doubt that all three will continue to build on the strong reputations of their departments.” 

Lois Monks began her legal career with JWP in 2012 as a trainee solicitor and has progressed through the firm to become a Director. Lois has been Children Panel accredited since 2018 and is a specialist in her area, regularly representing children, parents and other family members in complex child care and private law proceedings. Lois won the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award at the Business Power Awards in 2025, as well as being shortlisted for Partner of the year at the Yorkshire Legal Awards in the same year.  

Melissa Portlock joined JWP in 2022, bringing extensive experience in Family Law, Legal Aid, Injunctions and Private Law matters. Melissa obtained her Resolution Accreditation in relation to Children and Domestic Abuse matters in September 2025 and sits on the North, East and West Yorkshire Resolution Committee. Since qualifying as a Chartered Legal Executive in 2021, she has built a strong reputation for supporting clients through often challenging circumstances with compassion, professionalism and clear communication. 

Narinder Rathour joined JWP in 2018 following an established criminal law career spanning more than two decades. A High Court Advocate since 2010, he has acted in some of the country’s most complex criminal cases, including murder, rape, terrorism, fraud and international extradition proceedings.  

Please join us in congratulating the team on their appointments!