Contentious trusts and probate in South East

Charles Russell Speechlys LLP

Praised as ‘among the very best contentious trusts and probate teams in the field’, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is highly experienced in 1975 Act claims, proprietary estoppel, and Court of Protection disputes. Oliver Auld is praised as ‘calm under pressure’, while Duncan Elson is knowledgeable of landed estates and family businesses. Edward Birrell is proficient in disputes surrounding trusts structures, Rebecca Piper is well versed in applications to remove executors and trustees, and Katelyn Silver handles Variation of Trusts Act applications, while Kate Dansie is another key team member.

Praxisleiter:

Oliver Auld; Edward Birrell


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Rebecca Piper; Katelyn Silver; Kate Dansie; Duncan Elson


Referenzen

‘A top-notch firm with strength in depth and genuine expertise in their area.’

‘They are among the very best contentious trusts and probate teams in the field. They have quality at all levels. Associates at CRS are the equivalent of partners in many firms.’

‘Oliver Auld is super bright and calm under pressure.’

Kernmandanten

The Public Trustee of the Bailiwick of Guernsey


Highlight-Mandate


  • Representing the Public Trustee of the Bailiwick of Guernsey in relation to losses to 5 Guernsey pension schemes.
  • Advising the son of a world-renowned sports personality in relation to a £20m estate, which is subject to multiple disputes on the grounds of professional negligence.
  • Acting in a substantial landed estate dispute between family members involving family trusts, corporate holdings, and a contested trustee removal application.

Cripps

Praised as a ‘fantastic team’, Cripps is a key port of call for high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and family businesses on estate disputes. Philip Youdan leads the team and is praised as an ‘extremely savvy solicitor’, while Myles McIntosh has three decades of experience in contentious trust and probate matters. Other key members of the team include Dino Sikkel and Sophie Walsh, who often handle issues before the Court of Protection.

Praxisleiter:

Philip Youdan


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Myles McIntosh;Dino Sikkel; Sophie Walsh


Referenzen

‘This is a fantastic team, one of the best in the country.‘

‘The Will, Trust and Probate dispute team at Cripps is really, really good. Their Tunbridge Wells office in particular does a lot of high-quality contentious probate work – they know the law inside out and have great experience.‘

‘Phil Youdan is a real star, who is brilliant at viewing cases from a commercial perspective. He is highly empathetic with clients.’

Freeths LLP

With ‘an excellent reputation for contentious trusts and probate advice’, Freeths LLP is a key contact for challenges to the validity of a will. The practice is overseen by Sarah Foster, who has over three decades of experience in the sector and is skilled at claims against estates for financial provision and the removal of executors and trustees. The ‘extremely dedicated’ Sally Goodger is experienced in advising private clients on their role as executors, administrators, and trustees, while Charlotte Flynn is knowledgeable of Inheritance Act claims.

Praxisleiter:

Sarah Foster


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Sally Goodger: Charlotte Flynn


Referenzen

‘Freeths enjoy an excellent reputation for contentious trusts and probate advice and have superb lawyers within the team.’

‘They are a pleasure to deal with – robust but always knowledgeable and reasonable. They were particularly helpful.‘

‘Freeths have a strong team that is very well known for its contentious trusts and probate work. They have a particularly strong mediation offering.’

Irwin Mitchell

With experience in proprietary estoppel and succession upon death matters, Irwin Mitchell counts executors, trustees, charities, and beneficiaries on its client roster. Praised as ‘highly experienced’, Paula James handles contentious trust and probate issues involving international assets, and Tara McIness is noted for her litigation experience, while Samantha Ewing is skilled at 1975 Act claims. Stephen Ireland is often engaged in disputes involving testamentary capacity, proprietary estoppel, and the removal of executors, while Margaret Windram is informed in professional negligence claims surrounding wills.

Praxisleiter:

Paula James; Stephen Ireland; Tara McInnes


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Samantha Ewing: Margaret Windram


Referenzen

‘Irwin Mitchell have a well-earned national reputation as a reliable firm for their contentious trusts and estate work.’

‘One of the best contentious trust and probate teams outside of London. There is a strength in depth that few firms nationwide can match. The team is particularly adept in its attention to detail when presenting clients‘ cases.’

‘The team has been together for a number of years now, so they run as a very well-oiled machine. In addition to being a close-knit local team, they can draw on the infrastructure and wider expertise of the national firm.’

Moore Barlow

Often handling claims against professionals following the drafting of wills, estate planning, and trust advice, Moore Barlow's practice is headed up by Scott Taylor. Taylor is praised as a ‘safe pair of hands’, while Emily Travell is a key port of call for beneficiaries, trustees, and charities on the full gamut of private wealth disputes. Other key members of the team include Sally Holyland, who is praised as ‘tough and effective’, and Lisa Green, who has experience in High Court litigation and mediation.

Praxisleiter:

Scott Taylor


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Emily Travell: Sally Holyland; Lisa Green


Referenzen

‘Moore Barlow have a good team, who are well known in the field of contentious trusts and estates.‘

‘Scott Taylor and Sally Holyland are both first-class lawyers.’

‘My main contact is with Scott Taylor, the partner who heads up the team. He is approachable, knowledgeable, and responsive.’

Highlight-Mandate


  • Appointed by the High Court as the representatives for a potential class of beneficiaries of an estate pursuant to an equivocal clause in a will.

Stevens & Bolton LLP

Praised for its ‘excellent strength in-depth’, Stevens & Bolton LLP‘s broad caseload encompasses disputes surrounding the validity of wills, estate administration, and asset recovery. Lauded for his ‘strong personal reputation in private wealth disputes’, practice head James Lister is skilled at 1975 Act claims, while Jack Bailey handles disputes surrounding claims for breach of trust. Hayley Robinson advises private clients acting as executors, trustees, and beneficiaries, while Ellie Sullivan and Susie Foden are other key members of the team.

Praxisleiter:

James Lister


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jack Bailey: Hayley Robinson: Ellie Sullivan: Susie Foden


Referenzen

‘The team is run by James Lister, who is phenomenal at managing almost all the litigation within the team. He is a first-rate lawyer and legal mind, but is also blessed with shrewd tactical judgment on his cases. Jack Bailey is a recent partner who continues to run his cases with a practical and client-friendly efficiency. The partners are supported by talented and hardworking associates like Hayley Robinson and Ellie Sullivan.‘

‘The department have excellent strength in-depth and there is a real team ethos. Work is undertaken at the correct level – although the partner is always on hand, the associates are capable and trusted to get on with matters.’

‘Jack Bailey is excellent to have in your corner, and his advice is thorough and gets to the nub of the issue. He brings a constructive approach to a problem, focusing on the key elements that will achieve a positive outcome for the client, rather than inflaming tensions and being drawn into unnecessary arguments.‘

B P Collins LLP

B P Collins LLP is skilled at challenging the validity of wills, Inheritance Act 1975 Claims, and estate administration. The practice is headed up by Craig Williams, who is a key port of call for high-net-worth individuals for the full gamut of contentious trust and probate matters. Matthew Brandis is noted for his litigation capabilities, Imogen Pike handles testamentary capacity disputes, and Charlotte Braham is informed on trustee disputes.

Praxisleiter:

Craig Williams


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Matthew Brandis: Imogen Pike; Charlotte Braham


Referenzen

‘There is a good range of experience at the firm.‘

‘This firm was recommended as they would get results and be successful, with specialist expertise in the area of law I needed. They were immensely supportive and gave a personal touch to a highly stressful time. They were efficient, thorough, and instilled confidence.’

‘I worked with Craig Williams, he was friendly, had an easy manner, and was very understanding about the law. I felt confident that I was in safe hands at all times.’

Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented a client against fraud and misappropriated funds allegations during her late husband’s lifetime, worth £4m.

Birketts LLP

Birketts LLP is vastly experienced in advising high-net-worth individuals and families on succession planning advice and tax relief. The practice, which is praised for its ‘legal knowledge, support, and experience’ is jointly overseen by Bernadette Baker and Amanda Smallcombe. Baker is highly proficient in estate administration disputes, trust claims, and professional negligence claims surrounding advice relating to wills, trusts, and estates, while Smallcombe’s broad caseload encompasses Court of Protection matters, proprietary estoppel issues, and challenges to a wills validity. Other key members of the team include Sharon Bell and Jenny Howe.

Praxisleiter:

Bernadette Baker: Amanda Smallcombe


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Sharon Bell: Jenny Howe


Referenzen

‚Jenny Howe works collaboratively and constructively. We very quickly reached settlement in a 1975 Act claim. Jenny was available, friendly and knowledgeable.‘

‚Amanda Smallcombe is incredible. A very approachable and extremely knowledgeable litigator.‘

‚Amanda Smallcombe has a strong background, but is sensible and pragmatic in negotiations. These skills are repeated in other team members including Jenny Howe.‘

Blake Morgan LLP

Praised as a ‘great private client team’, Blake Morgan LLP’s key strengths lie in trustee removal claims, Court of Protection claims, and Inheritance Act disputes. The ‘incredibly sharp and knowledgeable’ Thomas Middlehurst leads the practice and is well-versed in professional negligence claims arising from the administration of trusts and estates. Other key members of the team include Victoria Lea-Holton, who is noted for her proficiency in Court of Protection matters.

Praxisleiter:

Thomas Middlehurst


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Victoria Lea-Holton


Referenzen

‘Most of my work has been with Thomas Middlehurst. Tom is experienced, clever and robust. He is a formidable litigator.’

‘Tom Middlehurst leads a great private client team.’

‘Tom Middlehurst is a bright and a critical thinker, so I am not left to figure it all out. He thinks outside the box and cares for his clients.’

Highlight-Mandate


  • Successfully represented an individual as the global counsel in his litigation against Credit Suisse Group in Singapore, Guernsey, and Bermuda
  • Successfully advised the claimant in seeking his costs following a discontinuance in the reported case of Benjamin v Benjamin & Anor.
  • Successfully represented a claimant in a claim for the removal of himself and his brother as executors of their mother’s estate following a conflict of interest.

Brachers (Part of Lawfront)

Praised for ‘a wide range of knowledge’, Brachers (Part of Lawfront) is highly proficient in breach of trusts claims, Inheritance Act 1975 claims, and undue influence claims. Commended as a ‘superb solicitor in every respect’, Deborah Cain oversees the practice and handles negligence claims against professional estate planning advisers. Christopher Eriksson-Lee is knowledgeable of reduced exposure to inheritance tax, while other key members of the team include Jennifer Alderman and Emily Thurgood.

Praxisleiter:

Deborah Cain


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Christopher Eriksson-Lee: Jennifer Alderman: Emily Thurgood


Referenzen

‘Deborah Cain provided an excellent service in progressing a claim. The help, advice, and professional input necessary to see the claim brought to a successful conclusion was excellent. I am very pleased that I chose Brachers for this legal work.’

‘Deborah Cain was always very friendly, polite, and understanding, and her professional knowledge and advice were invaluable.‘

‚When specific expertise was necessary on associated issues, Deborah Cain was able to obtain advice within the firm.‘

Field Seymour Parkes LLP

Commended by clients as an ‘excellent contentious probate team’, Field Seymour Parkes LLP counts executor and trustee disputes as areas of key expertise. Katharine Riley, who is praised as ‘very experienced and a pleasure to work with’, oversees the practice and is skilled at proprietary estoppel disputes and Court of Protection work. Rob Crowther is noted for his capabilities in Inheritance Act 1975 claims, while Ben Oliver specialises in tax matters.

Praxisleiter:

Katharine Riley


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Rob Crowther: Ben Oliver


Referenzen

‘Katharine Riley has a depth of experience that sets her above competitors in the world of contentious probate and estates. Rob Crowther is a technical expert with an understanding of family complexity. Ben Oliver is an excellent private client lawyer.’

‘Katharine Riley is an excellent lawyer who really looks after her clients’ interests.’

‘Katharine Riley is very experienced and a pleasure to work with.’

Gardner Leader LLP

Lauded for its ‘excellent communication’, Gardner Leader LLP’s broad capabilities encompass estate administration disputes, proprietary estoppel claims, and Inheritance Act claims. The practice is led by Alastair Goggins, who has over two decades of experience in the removal of executors, as well as breach of trust cases. Ashleigh Wong and Hilary Messer are other key team members.

Praxisleiter:

Alastair Goggins


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Ashleigh Wong: Hilary Messer


Referenzen

‘They have a good strength and depth of fee earners in the team. They show strong and consistent support to clients on matters that sometimes go on for years. They are firm with difficult clients whilst showing good empathy and understanding. They are professional.’

‘They are proactive and do not need to be chased, with good communication, excellent experience, and legal knowledge. They put in extra effort to ensure tight deadlines with the Court are met.’

‘A specialised team, focused on giving the best client experience and providing exceptionally well-thought-out advice. The team has an excellent breadth of knowledge, covering all types of claims and niche areas of probate disputes. They actively collaborate with the non-contentious team to provide clients with detailed, often intricate, advice and understanding.’

Nockolds Solicitors

Praised as ‘skilled specialist lawyers who provide up-to-date and efficient legal advice’, Nockolds Solicitors‘ practice is spearheaded by Sarah Lockyer. Michael Henry is noted for his experience in burial disputes, executor role disputes, and claims under the 1975 Inheritance Act, while Gemma Dudmish handles matters surrounding will validity. Other key members of the team include Andrew Jenkins, who is skilled at Court of Protection matters.

Praxisleiter:

Sarah Lockyer


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Michael Henry: Gemma Dudmish: Andrew Jenkins


Referenzen

‘Everyone I have interacted with at Nockolds has been kind, considerate, and honest. They have shown genuine understanding and been incredibly thoughtful and courteous.‘

‘What stands out is the kindness and concern shown, not just in relation to my case, but also towards my general wellbeing. They have demonstrated real empathy, which I greatly appreciated.’

‘I found Nockolds Solicitors very responsive from my initial enquiry. I was given realistic advice regarding my situation. My enquiry involved both family and business issues, and Nockolds were able to provide answers across both areas.’

Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP

Commended as ‘extremely pleasant to work with’, Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP is geared to advise clients on estate planning issues and financial settlements. Praised as ‘one of the most experienced private client litigators around’, practice head Michael Cash handles claims under the Inheritance Act 1975. Sarah Sussman is ‘adept at managing workflows for large-scale and complex matters’, while Andrew Bird and Charlotte Finley are other key team members.

Praxisleiter:

Michael Cash


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Sarah Sussman: Andrew Bird: Charlotte Finley


Referenzen

‘Michael Cash is very well known in the industry—a powerhouse of knowledge when it comes to contentious trusts and estates. He is pragmatic, respected on both sides of a dispute, and regularly acts as an independent administrator with a firm grip on knotty issues.’

‘Michael Cash is one of the most experienced private client litigators around and has guided and shaped his team over the years to offer incisive and pragmatic solutions to difficult and emotional private client cases. He is a real star.’

‘Andrew Bird is bright, responsive, and a pleasure to deal with.‘

Rothley Law Limited

Rothley Law Limited’s key strengths lie in trust disputes, statutory will applications, professional negligence claims involving wills, and claims under the Inheritance Act 1975. With over two decades of experience in private client disputes, the practice is headed up by Mandeep Chima. Jonathan Hare is a key contact for claimants, defendants, and executors on the removal of executors and proprietary estoppel claims.

Praxisleiter:

Mandeep Chima


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jonathan Hare


Referenzen

‚They have the client’s best interests at heart.‘

‚They resolve matters in the most cost effective way possible.’

‘Jonathan Hare was a breath of fresh air to work with. He focused on the key points that needed addressing and resolved the matter quickly and concisely.‘

Thomson Snell & Passmore

Thomson Snell & Passmore’s broad caseload encompasses Inheritance Act 1975 matters, claims against executors, and professional negligence claims surrounding wills. Praised as ‘personable, knowledgeable, and a key solicitor in the industry’, Nicholas Horton oversees the team and is vastly experienced in estate administration work. Nasima Ansary is often engaged in challenges to a will’s validity and actions against trustees, while Amy Wilford is another key team member.

Praxisleiter:

Nicholas Horton


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Nasima Ansary: Amy Wilford


Referenzen

‘Nick Horton is a hugely respected and well-known figure in this area of the law. He approaches cases with real care and attention, and is meticulous in trying to find every possible advantage for a client, in a sensitive and pragmatic way.’

‘Nasima Ansary is a high-quality lawyer who always puts her clients‘ needs first. She is excellent at building rapport in difficult matters and at finding pragmatic solutions.’

‘Amy Wilford is the kind of lawyer you want in your corner. She is hard-working, determined, straight-talking, and leaves no stone unturned in finding the best outcomes for clients.’

Birkett Long LLP

Birkett Long LLP’s broad contentious caseload encompasses Inheritance Act 1975 claims, claims for breach of trust, and challenges to the validity of wills. On the non-contentious side, the ‘extremely friendly and approachable’ practice is also skilled at statutory wills. Praised as an ‘excellent lawyer’, Lisa Cox oversees the team from Colchester and ‘deals with cases pragmatically and cost-effectively’.

Praxisleiter:

Lisa Cox


Referenzen

‘Lisa Cox is a brilliant lawyer. She is on top of every aspect of a case.‘

‘Lisa Cox is an excellent lawyer who does not sweat the small stuff, remaining focused on getting the best result for her clients.’

‘Lisa Cox is a rising star in this field. She is confidently leading her team to greater things.’

DMH Stallard LLP

Praised as a ‘pleasure to work with’, DMH Stallard LLP is geared to handle executor disputes, trust disputes, and will validity claims. The practice is spearheaded by Mark Rennie, who is well versed in Inheritance Act claims, while Jenny Ray is praised for her ‘vast experience and knowledge’. Providing clients with ‘expert guidance’, Cathryn Culverhouse is noted for her capabilities in proprietary estoppel claims, while other key members of the team include Gonzalo Butori.

Praxisleiter:

Mark Rennie


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jenny Ray: Cathryn Culverhouse: Gonzalo Butori


Referenzen

‘Jenny Ray has vast experience and knowledge of the legal and practical aspects of work in this area. She has good judgement as to the strengths and weaknesses of a case.’

‘Jenny Ray is very experienced and personable, with a great client manner and a good feel for what is essential in a case.’

‘Jenny Ray stands out due to her ability to immediately read the strengths and weaknesses of her client’s case. This ensures that clients have a strategy in place early on which maximises the strong elements of the case and manages the weaker elements.‘

Neale Turk LLP

Praised by clients for its ‘transparency, empathy, and expert problem solving’, Neale Turk LLP's team is frequently engaged in will validity challenges, trustee removals, and disputes surrounding the interpretation of wills. Splitting her time between Fleet and Basingstoke, Charlotte Searle oversees the team and is commended as ‘particularly strong on Inheritance Act claims and disputes involving complex family dynamics’.

Praxisleiter:

Charlotte Searle


Referenzen

‘The department’s ethos is rooted in transparency, empathy, and expert problem solving. Clients value the honest conversations about outcomes – an approach that fosters long-term trust and satisfaction.’

‘The team is small but highly specialised, with strong leadership from Charlotte Searle and a well-structured support system including legal and administrative staff. The team punches above its weight and handles complex national and cross-border disputes.’

‘The contentious private client team is known for its clear, pragmatic advice and its ability to deliver cost-effective outcomes without compromising on quality. Clients consistently say they feel heard, supported, and well advised.’

Taylor Rose

Taylor Rose’s recent caseload encompasses challenges to a will validity, Inheritance Act 1975 claims, and burial disputes. The practice is jointly overseen by Sharon Macaulay and Wendy Rixon; Macaulay is praised as a ‘thoughtful and dynamic partner who deals with all contentious probate matters with skill to achieve great results for clients’, while Rixon is skilled at challenges to the validity of wills. Georgia Langston handles Court of Protection matters.

Praxisleiter:

Sharon Macaulay; Wendy Rixon


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Georgia Langston


Referenzen

‘A strong team of highly specialist contentious probate lawyers who combine legal excellence with a hardworking, client-focused ethos.’

‘Taylor Rose are knowledgeable, proactive, and sensible in negotiations – standouts in contentious probate.’

‘The team handles a wide range of disputes, including niche areas like burial disputes and lifetime Court of Protection matters, with equal skill and efficiency.’

Tees Law

Jointly led by Darren Perks and Polly Kerr, the ‘great team’ at Tees Law has a notably broad regional footprint. Sara Stabler often handles high-value private wealth disputes, while other key members of the practice include Amelia Ayres, who is ‘super to work with and personable’. Ayres is skilled at executor removals, challenges to a will’s validity, and matters pertaining to the 1975 Inheritance Act.

Praxisleiter:

Darren Perks; Polly Kerr


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Amelia Ayres: Sara Stabler


Referenzen

‘A great team.‘

‘Amelia Ayres is super to work with and personable.’

Winckworth Sherwood LLP

Headed up by Philip Collins, the ‘commercially minded’ practice at Winckworth Sherwood LLP is geared to handle the full gamut of private wealth disputes. Collins is often engaged in Inheritance Act 1975 claims and is praised for his ‘down-to-earth and practical advice’. Samantha Warner is noted for her capabilities in succession planning, and Jessica Whooley is highly proficient in proprietary estoppel claims.

Praxisleiter:

Philip Collins


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Samantha Warner: Jessica Whooley


Referenzen

‘A good understanding of the law.‘

‚They are commercially minded.‘

‘Jessica Whooley is switched on, pragmatic, and a pleasure to work with.‘

Blandy & Blandy LLP

Praised as ‘a very strong and expanding team enjoying a first-class reputation’, Blandy & Blandy LLP is well versed in Inheritance Act claims and proprietary estoppel issues. Recommended as a ‘talented and experienced partner’, Angela Bowman co-leads the practice with David Murray. Other key members of the practice include Louise Low, who is a key port of call for high-net-worth individuals.

Praxisleiter:

Angela Bowman; David Murray


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Louise Low


Referenzen

‘A very strong and expanding team enjoying a first-class reputation.‘

‚They are brilliant, wonderful and compassionate whilst being utterly professional. They not only apply the law, but go above and beyond to talk you through every point and next step.‘

‘Blandy & Blandy enjoy a very good reputation in the contentious trusts and probate market.’

Blaser Mills Law

Often advising domestic and international high-net-worth individuals, Blaser Mills Law is geared to handle executor disputes, professional negligence claims, and Inheritance Act 1975 claims. Praised for his ‘exceptional client service and commercially pragmatic advice’, Matthew Whipp oversees the practice. Jonathan Lilley is noted for his capabilities in commercial litigation, while Juliana Pooler is another key team member.

Praxisleiter:

Matthew Whipp


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Jonathan Lilley: Juliana Pooler


Referenzen

‚I have found Matthew Whipp to be calm and reassuring, offering a solution when I communicate any concerns I am having. Matthew has been responsive, and displays a genuine sensitivity to any emotional distress, taking time to listen. I have found it easy to raise any doubts and have felt that Matthew genuinely cares about me and my family in what has been a highly difficult period.’

‘Working with Matthew Whipp has truly been a remarkable experience. What sets them apart is not just their deep legal knowledge, but their ability to translate complex legal concepts into clear, actionable advice. From the start, Matthew took the time to fully understand my specific situation, offering thoughtful solutions that were both strategic and practical.‘

‚Their attention to detail is unmatched – no stone is left unturned, ensuring I’m always well-informed and prepared for what’s ahead. What I appreciate most is their responsiveness and genuine commitment to my case. It’s clear they care deeply about achieving the best possible outcome, and their thorough approach gives me confidence every step of the way.’

Duncan Lewis Solicitors

With capabilities in both contentious and non-contentious trust and probate matters, Duncan Lewis Solicitors is spearheaded by Caroline Roche. Roche is knowledgeable of inheritance tax, issues of lack of capacity, and undue influence mandates. The ‘professional and efficient’ Eleanor Murray handles the removal of executors.

Praxisleiter:

Caroline Roche


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Eleanor Murray


Referenzen

‘Duncan Lewis Solicitors have been so professional from the second we had our first consultation. They have promptly communicated with us with updates on our situation, putting us at ease throughout this stressful time. They have shown great support throughout.‘

‘Dealing with Duncan Lewis was excellent, and they respond in a timely manner. They would give realistic timeframes as to when they would next contact me. Duncan Lewis has got excellent, professional, and supportive staff.’

‘Patience, professionalism, and empathy without losing the factual side of my particular case, for me, makes this practice unique.‘

Ellisons

Lauded as a ‘standout team’, Ellisons’ broad footprint covers Chelmsford, Colchester, and Ipswich. Kay Baker oversees the practice and is skilled at Court of Protection matters, and ‘strives for the best outcome for her clients’ with a ‘tenacious approach’.

Praxisleiter:

Kay Baker


Referenzen

‘Kay Baker is excellent and strives for the best outcome for her clients. She goes above and beyond, supported by a very capable team.‘

‘Kay Baker and her team are crafting an excellent service in a growing area. They are doing this by being practical, cost-conscious, and supportive whilst acting in the best interests of their clients.‘

‘Kay Baker’s pragmatic, no-nonsense, and tenacious approach always gets the job done for her clients. She is also superb at getting to the point of the issues.‘

Giles Wilson Law Limited

The ‘extremely well aligned’ practice at Giles Wilson Law Limited is overseen by established mediator Philip Giles. Also serving as a part time District Judge, Giles is highly proficient in the full spectrum of family disputes. The team is praised further by clients as ‘professional, friendly and helpful’.

Praxisleiter:

Philip Giles


Referenzen

‚The team is extremely well aligned.‘

‚Giles Wilson has a very strong and diverse group of outstanding women working within the team, which is something I love to see.‘

‚They are very professional, friendly and helpful.‘

Hugh James

Praised as ‘efficient and responsive’, Hugh James handles both onshore and offshore disputes involving trusts and estates. The practice is led by Roman Kubiak, who is praised as ‘hugely experienced, technically superb, and very good with clients’. Kubiak is also a key port of call for high-net-worth individuals, while Matthew Evans leads the firm’s private wealth team. Victoria Jones and Ellen Shipton are other key team members.

Praxisleiter:

Roman Kubiak


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Matthew Evans: Victoria Jones: Ellen Shipton


Referenzen

‘Pragmatic approach, explaining complex issues clearly in plain English.‘

‘The firm has an excellent reputation and is efficient and responsive. The case I was involved in with the firm was very well prepared and well-run.’

‘A fantastic firm that is going from strength to strength.’

Highlight-Mandate


  • Represented multiple defendants in defending a claim under the Inheritance Act 1975, successfully preventing a substantial alleged lifetime gift and share of the estate and achieving a favourable settlement for the client.
  • Represented a bank as the executor to reallocate a legacy intended for a now-defunct charity, successfully identifying a suitable alternative charity to honour the deceased’s wishes and benefit the local community.

Morr & Co LLP

The ‘friendly, efficient, and very competent team’ at Morr & Co LLP is noted for its strength in Inheritance Act claims, estate administration, and challenges to the validity of wills. Kellie Williams-Jauvel oversees the practice, and is highly proficient in the removal of executors, Court of Protection applications, and breaches of trust. Katie Woodcock and Woodrow Cox are praised as ‘impressive and personable’, while Harriet Greener is another key team member.

Praxisleiter:

Kellie Williams-Jauvel


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Katie Woodcock: Woodrow Cox: Harriet Greener


Referenzen

‘Katie Woodcock and Woodrow Cox are impressive and personable.’

‘Woodrow Cox was exemplary.’

‘Woodrow Cox is both charming and hard working.’

Palmers

Jointly overseen by Lee McClellan, Luke Morgan and Erin Duffy, Palmers counts various high-net-worth individuals on its client roster. McClellan and Duffy are praised for their ‘great knowledge and experience’, while Morgan is highly knowledgeable in professional negligence claims. Duffy is commended further as a ‘great partner who shows great empathy with her clients’.

Praxisleiter:

Lee McClellan; Luke Morgan; Erin Duffy


Referenzen

‚Lee McClellan and Erin Duffy have great knowledge and experience.‘

‚Erin Duffy is a great partner who shows great empathy with her clients whilst providing a great legal service. She is readily available and a pleasure to work with.‘

‚Most of my dealings with Palmers Law have been with my solicitor Erin Duffy. She has been very helpful and supportive and I have found her work to be of the highest standard. Erin is very professional and always responds to any queries in a timely fashion.‘

Paul Robinson Solicitors LLP

Headed up by Dominic Green, Paul Robinson Solicitors LLP is a key port of call for asset protection issues, potential claims against an estate, and executor work. Green handles challenges to the validity of wills, disputes surrounding estate administration, and proprietary estoppel claims.

Praxisleiter:

Dominic Green


Highlight-Mandate


  • Conducted forensic investigations to trace estate assets, assess solvency, and consider claims against receivers and agents for potential undervalue sales and the mismanagement of rental income.

Pinney Talfourd LLP

Counting estate executors, beneficiaries, and trustees on its client roster, Pinney Talfourd LLP is geared to handle will validity claims, Inheritance Act claims, and proprietary estoppel claims. The practice is headed up by Nicholas Hatchett, while Charlotte Dawe is praised as ‘helpful and conscientious’. Other key members of the team include Andrew Grant and Lisa Eastwood.

Praxisleiter:

Nicholas Hatchett


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Charlotte Dawe; Andrew Grant; Lisa Eastwood


Referenzen

‚Nicholas Hatchett adds breadth to the private client offering, handling professional negligence matters.‘

‚I have been working with Charlotte Dawe and she has been really helpful and conscientious in her approach to the cases. She is a clear thinker and works hard for the clients.‘

‚Lisa Eastwood as a senior associate is very strong. Lisa has been excellent, picking up a complex private client TOLATA case with high-value commercial premises in an Estate.‘

Highlight-Mandate


  • Handled the multi-jurisdictional removal of executors and the administration of interlinked disputed estates and interests in South Africa.
  • Advised on the alleged forgery of a will, reallocating the deceased’s estate.

RWK Goodman

Home to a ‘fantastic team of specialist estates and trusts litigators’, RWK Goodman is headed up by Amanda Noyce. Noyce is commended as ‘vastly experienced, hugely intelligent, and brilliant with clients’, while Calum Campbell is experienced in claims under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996. Campbell is also praised as an ‘absolute star in the contentious trusts and probate world’.

Praxisleiter:

Amanda Noyce


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Calum Campbell


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‘Amanda Noyce is brilliant with clients and very empathetic. Calum Campbell is extremely hard-working and thoughtful. He has great attention to detail and is constantly thinking about how to get to a good solution for the client.’

‘Amanda Noyce is highly experienced and has excellent judgment. She is able to find pragmatic solutions to complex problems.’

‘Amanda Noyce – a titan in this field. She is vastly experienced, hugely intelligent, and brilliant with clients. Highly recommended.‘

SE-Solicitors

Praised by clients for its ‘excellent lawyers with superb judgment and commercial acumen’, SE-Solicitors handles Inheritance Act claims, trust disputes, and proprietary estoppel matters. The practice is headed up by Tom McInerney, who is often engaged in estate administration issues and is commended for his ‘first-rate judgment and client skills’. Notably, Petra van Dijk has over two decades of experience in acting for private individuals on contentious trust and probate matters.

Praxisleiter:

Tom McInerney


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Petra van Dijk


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‘Excellent lawyers with superb judgment and commercial acumen.’

‘They are a great firm, and their advice is always clear.‘

‘Tom McInerney is excellent, on top of the law, and has first-rate judgment and client skills.’

Thompson Smith and Puxon

Noted for its ‘great reputation in the contentious trusts and probate market’, Thompson Smith and Puxon is headed up by Katie Latham. Latham is lauded as ‘knowledgeable, articulate, and good with her clients’ and handles estate disputes, executor disputes, and undue influence claims. Other key members of the team include Laura-Pauline Adcock-Jones, who is skilled at challenges to the validity of a will and Court of Protection applications.

Praxisleiter:

Katie Latham


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Laura-Pauline Adcock-Jones


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‘The TSP team enjoy a great reputation in the contentious trusts and probate market.’

‘Katie Latham is committed to her clients, yet pragmatic in her approach. It is a great combination.’

‘Katie Latham stands out as she is able to explain things in a straightforward manner so that our clients are put at ease at what is a difficult time for them – nothing is ever too difficult for her to handle and she is a credit to the profession.‘

TWM Solicitors

TWM Solicitors LLP is well geared to handle Inheritance Act 1975 claims, challenges to a will’s validity, and contested Court of Protection applications. The practice is headed up by David Hitchcock, while Stuart Downey is knowledgeable of inheritance tax, estate administration, and issues of mental capacity. Chris Unsworth is praised as ‘practical yet inventive’, while Rebecca Westwood’s recent caseload includes advice on the removal of a trustee on an estate.

Praxisleiter:

David Hitchcock


Weitere Kernanwälte:

Stuart Downey: Chris Unsworth: Rebecca Westwood


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‘Rebecca Westwood was very approachable and clear in her advice. She is very helpful too.’

‘Stuart Downey is an exceptional litigator. He is commercially minded, so he is able to obtain excellent results for his clients. He knows when it is right to advise a client to settle and when to take a matter to court.‘

‚Stuart Downey is very knowledgeable about contentious trusts and probate, but he is also unique in that he has previous private client and tax experience. As a result, his clients get a strong service.’