Our Story
Origins & Heritage
Established in 1792, Tassells is one of the oldest law firms in Kent, with over 230 years of continuous service to the community in Faversham and beyond.
The origins of Shepherd & Tassell trace back to 1792, when James Shepherd founded the practice.
James Tassell
(1819–1900)
Around 1841, following his marriage to James Shepherd’s granddaughter, James Tassell became a partner—marking the transition to the firm name associated with Tassell.
Solicitor & civic leader. Served as Vestry Clerk and joint clerk to both county magistrates and borough magistrates, also acting as deputy lieutenant and county registrar—roles listed in an 1888 commercial register.
Held the post of Vestry Clerk of the Parish of Faversham until his death in November 1900, aged 81.
Allan Tassell
(1850-1910)
Son of James Tassell, carrying forward the family partnership in solicitors. His roles extended to Superintendent Registrar, clerk to guardians, school board clerk, vaccination officer, and joint clerk to county magistrates/deputy lieutenants.
Also noted as Superintendent Registrar on a separate probate or civil registry certificate.
Served as Honorary Secretary for the North-East Kent Conservative Association, signaling active civic engagement.
Guy Tassell
(1876-1950)
Known for his roles as Town Clerk and Captain of the Faversham Volunteer Fire Brigade. He was also involved with the Faversham Society and served as Secretary. Additionally, he was involved in legal work and administration related to the Faversham explosion of 1916. He was born in Faversham on November 17, 1876, and passed away on October 2, 1950, in Kent.
Bryan (Peter) Tassell
(1908-2005)
Peter was the last family member to work in the firm, maintained his connection until his passing in 2005.
Life after
Tassell Family
Tassells has seen leadership from Stafford Day, Ann Astbury and James Matthews, before Alexandra Gordon and Marc Goddard took the helm in 2023.
At the end of 2024, Tassells moved from West Street to Jubilee Way. The decision to leave the West Street office was not taken lightly. However, with the firm’s growth and the need for a more modern working environment to better accommodate staff and clients.
Practice & Accreditations
- Today, Tassells specialises in Private Client Law (wills, probate, trusts, LPA, inheritance planning) and Property Law, including both residential and commercial conveyancing.
- The firm holds multiple accreditations: Lexcel (practice management excellence) and the Conveyancing Quality Scheme, both awarded by the Law Society .
- It also boasts members of STEP (Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners) and Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE), highlighting specialist expertise in estate and elderly client matters.