Burges Salmon LLP’s team is well-regarded for its work on cross border tax restructuring and commercial matters, often acting for high-net-worth clients. Suzanna Harvey and Jim Aveline head up the group; Aveline also leads the firm’s family business team. Tom Hewitt has knowledge of agricultural issues, while John Barnett is noted for his expertise in private client tax issues. Catherine De Maid handles international tax, trusts and estate planning matters and Emma Heelis-Adams often assists non-UK residents and non-domiciled UK clients. Tim Williams is well-versed in succession planning and inheritance tax issues. Edward Hayes is also a key contact.
Personal tax, trusts and probate in South West
Burges Salmon LLP
Responsables de la pratique:
Suzanna Harvey; Jim Aveline
Autres avocats clés:
Tom Hewitt; John Barnett; Catherine de Maid; Emma Heelis-Adams; Tim Williams; Edward Hayes
Les références
‘They work as a team and provide genuine personal attention as if you are their sole client.’
‘The trusts team is first class, Suzanna Harvey in particular is a complete expert.’
‘Suzanna Harvey is very hardworking, invested in clients and always thinking laterally. Leaves no stone unturned.’
Charles Russell Speechlys LLP
Under the leadership of Julia Cox, the team at Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is noted for its ability to handle a wide array of matters, including landed estates conveyancing, international tax planning and mandates involving family businesses. Christopher Page has extensive experience advising on complex succession planning for multiple assets and varying ownership structures. Henry Fea assists UK domiciled and non-domiciled clients with international tax, trust and succession issues, while Katie Talbot has a particular focus in rural and landed estate matters. Tabitha Collett routinely assists entrepreneurs.
Responsables de la pratique:
Julia Cox
Autres avocats clés:
Christopher Page; Henry Fea; Katie Talbot; Tabitha Collett; Mary Perham
Les références
‘Very clever and responsive team of professionals whose knowledge goes beyond what might normally be expected of a « normal » solicitor.’
‘Julia Cox, Mary Perham and Henry Fea have been particularly helpful in the year and once again, very proactive with clients and very approachable.’
‘Great to have a top tier firm on the ground in Cheltenham and very active in the local market. Very strong across the private client sphere with particular emphasis on the more complex trust aspects.’
Clarke Willmott LLP
Clarke Willmott LLP excels in advising high-net worth and international clients on the full spectrum of issues, from tax planning to estate administration and trust management. Anthony Fairweather, Samantha Neagle and Emma Pope spearhead the practice. Neagle is an expert in the administration of complex estates and Pope advises on inheritance tax exemptions and reliefs. Carol Hawking’s varied caseload includes international estate planning, often involving complex estates with agricultural and business elements. David Maddock and Tom Chiffers are well-placed to advise on agricultural issues, while Jacqui Lazare is adept at handling trust matters, including vulnerable persons trusts and declarations of trust over property. Claire Johnson and Jeremy Bourke are also key contacts.
Responsables de la pratique:
Anthony Fairweather; Samantha Neagle; Emma Pope
Autres avocats clés:
Carol Hawking; David Maddock; Tom Chiffers; Jacqui Lazare; Claire Johnson; Jeremy Bourke; Emma Barry
Les références
‘Emma Barry is consistently available, always accurate, and delivers advice that is both practical and clearly thought through. She’s always on time, accessible, and someone I completely trust.’
‘Clarke Willmott’s team has always been responsive, thorough, and thoughtful in their approach. They’ve earned my trust and confidence over the years and come highly recommended.’
‘Emma Pope is supported by a highly efficient and professional team.’
Michelmores LLP
Michelmores LLP’s tax, trust and succession team predominantly assists entrepreneurs. Sandra Brown leads the team, leveraging her expertise in wealth preservation. Edward Porter handles a broad range mandates for high-net worth clients, from estate planning to matters concerning powers of attorney and wills. James Frampton advises international families and trustees on succession, trust and tax issues. Iwan Williams is well-versed in estate and succession planning work, Caroline Alexander assists with complex international probate files, and Richard Hedger is adept in handling Court of Protection work. Nerys Thomas is an expert in tax planning and estate and trust management matters, having been promoted to partner in May 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Sandra Brown
Autres avocats clés:
Edward Porter; James Frampton; Iwan Williams; Caroline Alexander; Richard Hedger; Nerys Thomas; Charlotte Coombs
Les références
‘Caroline Alexander was always available to give clear and concise answers to questions. She explained everything in plain English, sometimes several times. She offered a clear plan as to how probate would proceed so it was clear what stage we were at. We have been recommending them to others. The level of service was exceptional.’
‘Caroline Alexander provided clear and comprehensive advice. She is a very experienced and approachable lawyer who is not only technically solid but really « gets » her clients and cuts through problems with pragmatic and understandable advice which was invaluable to us. Her team were available as additional support when needed. We felt supported through the whole process. Caroline always made time to explain intricate details.’
‘This is a fantastic team of specialists who provide very high quality legal advice.’
Wiggin Osborne Fullerlove
Boutique firm Wiggin Osborne Fullerlove often advises high and ultra high-net-worth clients on asset protection, philanthropy and tax matters, with a strong focus on trusts and estate planning. Tim Osborne and Stephen Green co-lead the wealth management team. Matthew Shayle acts for international clients, handling matters involving trusts, foundations and tax planning. Matthew Cain’s practice focuses on private wealth structures, while Stephen Pallister is an expert in personal taxes and HMRC enquiries, charity law and trusts. Rose Chamberlayne routinely advises next generation wealth owners, and Hannah Hughes specialises in tax planning for non-UK domiciled clients.
Responsables de la pratique:
Tim Osborne; Stephen Green
Autres avocats clés:
Matthew Shayle; Matthew Cain; Stephen Pallister; Rose Chamberlayne; Hannah Hughes; George Badger
Les références
‘The best team outside the London magic and silver circle. From the most experienced to the newest member, I trust the instincts and work ethic of every member of the department. The quality of their work demonstrates that I am not alone in this view.’
‘Matthew Cain is a strategic mastermind, a technical guru, and a thoroughly nice man.’
‘Matthew Shayle is the best of the younger generation of private client partners. Matt’s technical expertise is matched by his charm.’
Wilsons
The team at Wilsons houses four sub-departments: tax advice, inheritance, estate planning and wills, trust litigation and private wealth disputes, Court of Protection and capacity, trusts and settlements and probate. Specialising in Court of Protection work, Frances Mayne leads the practice alongside Tim Fullerlove and Belinda Watson. Fullerlove advises on tax disputes and offshore matters, and both Watson and Torsten White act for landed estate clients. Rupert Wilkinson’s client base includes ultra-high-net worth domestic and international clients. Christopher Bull, Leah Ringwood-Hoare and Ben Smith are also names to note.
Responsables de la pratique:
Frances Mayne; Belinda Watson; Tim Fullerlove
Autres avocats clés:
Torsten White; Rupert Wilkinson; Christopher Bull; Leah Ringwood-Hoare; Ben Smith
Les références
‘The team are knowledgeable, client-centric and highly experienced. We also consider them to be good value for money. We have greatly enjoyed dealing with the team.’
‘Rupert Wilkinson’s client centricity and expertise are second to none. We have greatly enjoyed dealing with Rupert and have valued his pragmatism, strategic thinking and attention to detail. We would highly recommend Rupert.’
Ashfords LLP
Ashfords LLP’s diverse client base includes high-net-worth individuals, business owners, landed estates, farmers, executors and trustees. The team is headed up by Michael Alden, who assists high-net-worth clients with estate management, and Kerry Morgan-Gould, who is an expert in wills, trusts, estates and contentious Court of Protection mandates. Jonathan Hickman has broad expertise in estate and succession planning for farmers and clients with landed estates. Michael Westbrook and Victoria Green are also notable members of the team. Barnaby Croft left the firm in December 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Michael Alden; Kerry Morgan-Gould
Autres avocats clés:
Jonathan Hickman; Michael Westbrook; Victoria Green; Sarah Mansbridge
Les références
‘All the team members I have worked with have been exceptional. They are professional yet approachable and very knowledgeable.’
‘Victoria Green is a most approachable and empathetic practitioner who gets results.’
‘Kerry Morgan-Gould is a clever practitioner who can efficiently manage complex contentious estate cases.’
Birketts LLP
International tax expert Deborah Carrivick heads up Birketts LLP’s private client offering in the firm’s Bristol office. The team is adept at handling a wide range of issues, from non-domiciliary taxation and cross-border succession matters, to lifetime tax planning, family investment companies and trust work. Alongside Carrivick, Jane Johnson and Yasmin Metcalfe are key contacts. Johnson routinely advises US-based clients on transactions in the UK, while Metcalfe has a particular niche advising law firms on the establishment and governance of trust corporations. All three relocated to Bristol in November 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Deborah Carrivick
Autres avocats clés:
Jane Johnson; Yasmin Metcalfe
Les références
‘Very personable and constructive. Able to find solutions to difficult issues.’
‘Deborah Carrivick is both friendly and professional, spearheading growth in the private client team.’
‘Jane Johnson is very capable and an excellent draftsperson. ’
Ellis Jones Solicitors LLP
The wills, trusts and probate team at Ellis Jones Solicitors LLP handles a broad range of private client matters, with niche expertise in disabled persons trusts and Court of Protection work involving elderly clients. Both Carla Brown, who leads the team, and Andy Kirby routinely advise high-net-worth and ultra-high-net worth clients on estate and tax planning. Chris Pemberton is well-regarded for his work on agricultural and landed estates.
Responsables de la pratique:
Carla Brown
Autres avocats clés:
Andy Kirby; Chris Pemberton
Les références
‘Firstly, the Practice is extremely professional, from the receptionist greeting clients, to the secretaries and trainees, right up to the head of department. Secondly, everyone is knowledgeable about their particular area of responsibility and more junior staff always refer to the partner when necessary. Thirdly, the firm is good value for money compared with competitors for the high level of service given to clients.’
‘It is a very open and friendly firm, staff have time for you and go out of their way to to respond quickly and efficiently to requests. I was treated sympathetically and sensitively. The service I received was tailored exactly to my personal requirements and was carried out efficiently and quickly.’
‘I have been entirely satisfied with all the advice given to me and in fact intend to continue using their service when I eventually move to London. I have had considerable experience of similar London practices and none has compared with Ellis Jones.’
Principaux dossiers
- Advising a wealthy non-domiciled couple with assets in multiple jurisdictions on their tax position and devolution of their estates on death
- Assisting wealthy client with understanding options for devolution of his estate in a fair, tax efficient manner in the face of a tricky family dynamic.
Foot Anstey
Anna Parker heads up Foot Anstey’s tax and succession practice. The team works in tandem with the firm’s wider private wealth practice to assist a diverse range of clients, including banks and trustees, landowners and entrepreneurs. Parker often acts for business owners, advising them on tax and succession issues. Michelle Seddon oversees the firm’s probate offering, while Michael Evans handles international trust and tax issues.
Responsables de la pratique:
Anna Parker
Autres avocats clés:
Michelle Seddon; Michael Evans; Robert Davies; Claudia Fox
Les références
‘The team endorses and supports one another really well. They are responsive.’
‘Robert Davies delivers well-rounded advice to clients in a practical and accessible manner. I trust Rob implicitly with my clients and trust his advice will be technically sound and commercial.’
‘The team always make time for enquiries as well as being very supportive and collaborative. Their work is always within the budget and on time. They are absolutely my ‘go to’ firm for any private client work.’
Harrison Clark Rickerbys
Harrison Clark Rickerbys’ team often acts for professional service firms, namely accountants, stock brokers and financial advisers, as well as vulnerable clients. Alex Taylor spearheads the practice and is an expert in complex tax planning, trust and estate administration matters, in addition to advising on matters concerning cross-border estates. Phillipa Bruce-Kerr is well-versed in Court of Protection matters and specialises in care funding issues and matters relating to the Mental Capacity Act. Tom Murphy-Kirkhope and Niamh McAlonan routinely advise on will preparation, estate and tax planning mandates. Lauren McGurk leads the firm’s team dedicated to assisting vulnerable people.
Responsables de la pratique:
Alex Taylor
Autres avocats clés:
Phillipa Bruce-Kerr; Tom Murphy-Kirkhope; Niamh McAlonan; Lauren McGurk
Les références
‘The team at Harrison Clark Rickerby naturally and usually delivers above expectations. Having used HCR for a number of years, delivering above expectations should be a tall order, but it seems to me to happen every time. They are skilled at understanding your questions and exploring the depth of the question and your concerns. The advice is clear, concise and full of depth.’
‘I have used a number of law firms, both larger and smaller, they are big enough to have the experience to deliver, but small enough to care.’
‘I would have no hesitation in recommending Harrison Clark Rickerbys.’
Osborne Clarke LLP
The Bristol-based private wealth team at Osborne Clarke LLP acts for a significant number of high-net-worth, international families, most notably those with a US connection. Entrepreneurs, business owners and charities also make up the firm’s diverse client base. Patrick Wooddisse is well-regarded for representing high-net-worth clients and high value trusteeships. Shelley Faulkner’s diverse caseload encompasses private and charitable trust creation, inheritance tax planning and estate administration. Jenny Deacon is also a key member of the team.
Autres avocats clés:
Patrick Wooddisse; Shelley Faulkner; Jenny Deacon; Sophie Walmsley
Les références
‘Agile thinkers. ’
‘First-class legal and tax minds.’
It has been easy working with the team and I find the members intelligent and quick to respond. The team has also had a « can do » approach and always try to work in a honest and straightforward manner. ’
‘Patrick Wooddisse is one who I would say stands out from the other firms I have worked with. His eye for detail and personable nature makes me want to work with him. Where he may not have an immediate answer, he has gone back to the team and discussed internally and sought suitable advice to come back with intelligent solutions. I appreciate his timely responses and work ethic.’
‘Professional and clear advice and I always feel confident that I am in safe hands with the OC team.’
‘Shelley Faulkner has been superb.’
‘Shelley Faulkner is the epitome of excellent client care. She is determined to ensure an answer is given and a matter dealt with as soon as possible to give peace of mind, and her guidance and advice is similarly excellent. To have Shelley acting for you is hugely reassuring.’
‘Sophie Walmsley is a first-rate up and comer.’
RWK Goodman
RWK Goodman’s broad practice spans will and estate administration, estate planning, capacity-related matters, trust accounting and probate issues. Edward Vidnes oversees the wills, probate and incapacity practices, often acting for high-net worth clients. Co-head Mandy Casavant focuses on digital assets, particularly within the context of succession planning. James McNeile has extensive experience in international matters, particularly estate planning, trusts and tax planning matters. Amanda Noyce often handles contentious work, while Cherry Stuckey specialises in estate planning.
Responsables de la pratique:
Edward Vidnes; Mandy Casavant
Autres avocats clés:
James McNeile; Amanda Noyce; Cherry Stuckey
Les références
‘Very knowledgeable team with a broad range of skills, which is invaluable. There will always be someone who knows the answer to even the most obscure technical question! the team have a great approach to clients and really care about putting clients first. Great local presence too.’
‘Edward Vidnes is always fantastic in his dealings with any client, it’s important to him to get to know the client and to really understand what their objectives are, and is totally proactive in his approach to clients. Extremely knowledgeable but also very personable, which is an important combination when dealing with people.’
‘The approachability of the team is a key factor, being friendly, sympathetic and yet very practical. I always feel that that they deliver a very personal service.’
Stephens Scown LLP
Thomas Biddick spearheads the private client practice at Stephens Scown LLP. The team excels in handling complex and high-value estate and tax planning matters, and is also noted for its landed estates work. Biddick is a key contact for farming clients, while Phil Reed’s diverse caseload includes inheritance tax planning, estate and trust administration and Court of Protection work. Ian Newcombe is highly experienced in drafting complex wills and trusts. Tamara Hasson and James Stone are also recommended. Victoria Borrow and Georgina Carter joined in August 2024 and January 2025 respectively.
Responsables de la pratique:
Thomas Biddick
Autres avocats clés:
Phil Reed; Ian Newcombe; Tamara Hasson; James Stone; Victoria Borrow; Georgina Newcombe
Les références
‘Ian Newcombe and the team at Stephens Scown offer personable and efficient service backed up by enormous expertise.’
‘Clients are cared for and valued, and provided with innovative planning and solutions.’
‘Ian Newcombe is able to overview complex situations and provide suggestions and plans to solve complex problems in a very client-friendly way.’
TLT
Debbie Gale is at the helm at TLT, and the private wealth team leverages capabilities across a range of matters including multijurisdictional wills and estate work, private and charitable trusts and advice on the changes to inheritance tax, pensions and non-dom status. Gale has extensive experience advising on probate issues, tax work and trust creation as well as cross-border estates and elderly client law, while Sarah Pitman is a key contact for Court of Protection work and mental capacity issues. Caroline Fletcher joined the team in March 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Debbie Gale
Autres avocats clés:
Sarah Pitman; Caroline Fletcher
Les références
‘The team seem to be very approachable and able to deal with the unique circumstance of my family.’
‘Debbie Gale is particularly good to work with. She is pragmatic and practical and solution-oriented while being sympathetic to situations with complexity.’
‘TLT offers highly informed and sensitive legal advice, with attention to detail and awareness of the emotional impact of any legal matter.’
Tozers Solicitors LLP
Tozers Solicitors LLP’s wealth management team has expertise in a wide array of matters, including inheritance tax issues, high value deputyship and attorneyship cases and complex estate administration mandates. Grainne Staunton spearheads the practice, frequently handling complex succession planning issues for holiday and home park owners. Rachael Morley specialises in succession planning for business owners and Sue Halfyard is an expert in estate administration, will preparation and lasting powers of attorney.
Responsables de la pratique:
Gráinne Staunton
Autres avocats clés:
Rachael Morley; Sue Halfyard
Les références
‘Professionalism and efficiency was delivered throughout the processes and importantly, the team delivered exceptional customer service whenever I communicated with them. I felt listened to and that they understood my unusual circumstances, that I was in ‘safe’ hands and nothing was too much trouble for them.’
‘Sue Halfyard made me feel so at ease. I am delighted that I have found someone that stands out from all others when handling vulnerability.’
‘Susan Halfyard was extremely knowable and professional in dealing and helping with our wills. Every questions we had, Susan answered and explained impeccably. Susan was very friendly and very approachable.’
VWV
VWV’s private client offering includes specialist advice on a wide range of matters from complex estate and trust administration, to Court of Protection cases and personal injury trusts. The team is also well-regarded for its work advising lottery winners. Leila Goodarzi and Michelle Rose lead the practice. Goodarzi routinely advises on estate planning and administration, will preparation and Powers of Attorney. Louise Combstock lends her expertise to trust and inheritance planning, as well as high-value Court of Protection matters. Vashti Williamson is also a key contact.
Responsables de la pratique:
Michelle Rose; Leila Goodarzi
Autres avocats clés:
Louise Combstock; Vashti Williamson
Les références
‘Vashti Williamson has been helpful.’
‘Tabitha Barnes-Harris handled the work quickly and efficiently. The work was clearly documented, highlighting the important issues and delivered with considerable empathy.’
‘Great team with a broad range of skillsets and expertise, which is invaluable – I always feel very confident in my dealings with them.’
Wansbroughs
Wansbroughs provides advice on a broad range of matters, from trust and estate management to Court of Protection cases. In 2024 the firm also created a specialist agriculture and landed estates team, led by Alan Ciechan. Anna Wensley Stock heads up the private client team and is adept at handling international estate and succession planning, and family trust issues. Kathryn Smith Cowap and Emily Anderson often advise high-net worth clients, while Thomas Britten’s practice encompasses estate administrations, trust creations, will preparations and Lasting Power of Attorney applications. Britten was promoted to partner in May 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Anna Wensley Stock
Autres avocats clés:
Alan Ciechan; Kathryn Smith Cowap; Emily Anderson; Thomas Britten
Les références
‘Wansbroughs is forward-looking and friendly. They manage to combine a very professional look and feel, with a friendly and modern approach. There is a good gender mix which I think is significant in the balance of what they offer. I find them a real pleasure to work with.’
‘Kathryn Smith-Cowap is extremely bright and hard-working, and she always completes the work to a high standard, no matter how complex. I feel confident being able to refer clients to her, knowing that they will not be let down. ’
‘The team at Wansbroughs work closely and collaboratively, referring specialist colleagues when needed, and sharing work load with junior colleagues when appropriate. Our clients feel in safe hands when working with Wansbroughs.’
Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP
The private capital team at Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP advises high-net worth clients on a wide array of private matters. The team is particularly noted for its expertise in matters involving landed estates, onshore and offshore trusts, philanthropy and complex estate administrations. Practice head James Radcliffe is noted for his work handling international tax and trust issues, primarily for US clients. Christopher Kerr-Smiley often acts for non-UK residents and is an expert in estate planning and trust restructuring matters. Suzy Pawsey handles probate matters and estate administration.
Responsables de la pratique:
James Radcliffe
Autres avocats clés:
Christopher Kerr- Smiley; Suzy Pawsey
Les références
‘The team that I worked with to develop my estate planning, will and other documents was excellent. It was competent, brought forward ideas and suggestions, had correct and current knowledge of both UK/US legal systems and very friendly and welcoming.’
‘I would highly recommend James Radcliffe for estate planning for dual UK/US citizens.’
‘Highly efficient, personable and informed.’
Blanchards Bailey LLP
The private client practice at Blanchards Bailey LLP is divided into three specialist teams: wills and estate planning, probate and estate administration and elderly and vulnerable client work. Jerome Dodge oversees the wider team, primarily assisting high-net worth individuals, many of whom have an agricultural background. Emma Needham heads the wills and trusts team in Blanford and Catherine Roberts leads the probate team in Dorchester. Sophie Lawrence is well-regarded for her work on Court Protection matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jerome Dodge; Emma Needham; Catherine Roberts
Autres avocats clés:
Sophie Lawrence; Stacey Savage; Meggie Crane
Les références
‘Blanchards Bailey’s probate team have a great breadth of experience and skills. They provide friendly, efficient support to clients and are approachable and available. They have a great team of fabulous individuals who are utilised really well giving appropriate responsibility to more junior members of the team so that they can learn and develop whilst ensuring that more senior members are available for their clients and to deal with more complex areas of work.’
‘We work with a number of individuals within the team, from trainees to associates and partners. We have always had a brilliant experience with each person we have been in contact with, being kept well-informed and having information provided to in a timely and helpful manner.’
‘Every member of the firm with whom I have done business has been friendly and approachable and has had an extensive knowledge in their particular field of expertise. They are all patient and happy to explain things fully to the lay person.’
Steele Raymond LLP
Steele Raymond LLP’s private client practice fields two specialist teams: the wills trust and probate team and the estate planning and tax team. Joe Spring is the overall head of the practice and has a wealth of experience acting for high-net worth clients, though she has particular expertise in inheritance tax and conditional exemption claims for both land and chattels. Kelly Greig left the firm in October 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Joe Spring
Autres avocats clés:
Jane Lynch
Les références
‘Steele Raymond has always been approachable and provided prompt responses to keep everything moving along. I have always been confident with their timely advice. Phone calls are returned and emails responded to quickly.’
‘Jane Lynch was a superb advert for how to engage with a client, friendly, clear communication, sound advice, always responsive.’
‘The main thing that stood out was the personal touch. They were very compassionate and supportive. All communications and legal documents were explained in a manner that could be easily understood by families without a in depth knowledge of the probate system.’
Stone King LLP
Kathryn Layzell, Daniel Harris and Alison Allen are at the helm at Stone King LLP. The private wealth law team has a particular niche handling cross-border estates and matters for older and vulnerable clients. Layzell heads up the trust and estates offering and is also an expert in issues concerning older clients and care funding. Harris is the firm’s key contact for charity legacy work and international matters, primarily involving UK/French and UK/US succession. Allen advises on complex estates, succession and tax planning, while Andrew Mortimer is also a name to note.
Responsables de la pratique:
Kathryn Layzell; Daniel Harris; Alison Allen
Autres avocats clés:
Andrew Mortimer
Les références
‘Expertise in cross-border estates and probate.’
‘A high degree of technical expertise in a wide range of areas, coupled with an empathetic and caring approach.’
‘All of the team I have dealt with on behalf of my clients are experts in their field, practical and empathetic.’
Thrings LLP
The succession and tax team at Thrings LLP has a strong agriculture and landed estates offering and also handles tax and succession planning issues, as well as international tax advice and trust disputes. Penelope Munro, Samantha Doherty, Ben Coulson and Karen Perugini lead the practice. Munro specialises in complex estates, with a particular focus on agricultural estates and those with a business or foreign dimension. Sam Longmore is also a key member of the team
Responsables de la pratique:
Penelope Munro; Samantha Doherty; Ben Coulson; Karen Perugini
Autres avocats clés:
Sam Longmore
Trethowans LLP
Trethowans LLP assists clients with a range of planning matters, complex probate administrations and Court of Protection work. Poole-based Adam Scott leads the practice and is noted for his ability to advise high-net-worth individuals on estate and tax planning issues. In Bournemouth, Bonnie Ward assists high-net-worth clients and landed estate families, advising them on strategic matters.
Responsables de la pratique:
Adam Scott
Autres avocats clés:
Bonnie Ward
Les références
‘The team are highly skilled and knowledgeable, diverse in their approach and skillsets with broad opportunities to refer to the right fit for the client.’
‘The solicitors are approachable, trustworthy and presentable. The ability to understand and sympathise with clients is great and they appreciate the need to provide value for money in their service.’
‘Excellent availability, expertise and empathy.’
Trowers & Hamlins LLP
Trowers & Hamlins LLP’ private wealth team focuses on a wide range of issues, from international estate planning to agricultural estates and charity mandates. In Exeter, Frank Cook’s diverse caseload encompasses business and agricultural matters, as well as high-value international estate and trust administration work. Amanda Rainford often handles international tax work and succession planning for ultra-high-net worth and high-net worth individuals, while Charisse Crawford is well-regarded for her private wealth disputes work.
Autres avocats clés:
Frank Cook; Amanda Rainford; Charisse Crawford
Les références
‘There is very much a team spirit at Trowers & Hamlins. The partners quickly give you a sense that they understand your concerns and give you confidence that you are dealing with top-quality lawyers. They respond quickly – they are very helpful.’
‘They are all friendly and put you at ease and their professionalism is quickly apparent and reassuring.’
‘Amanda Rainford is by far the best partner I have dealt with for tax and estate planning. Incredibly quick turnaround and able to explain complex issues concisely. When necessary, she brings in colleagues who can reinforce a particular course of action. All the partners and staff I came across were clearly of high quality.’
Willans LLP
Willans LLP houses a wills, trusts and probate team with ‘great breadth and experience.’ Under the leadership of Simon Cook, the team is well-placed to advise on the full spectrum of private client services, including vulnerable client work, Court of Protection matters and probate trust disputes. Cook assists high-net-worth clients with complex asset and succession issues. Other key contacts include Tom O’Riordan, who leads the trusts sub-team and Laura Stone, who focuses on contentious and complex estate administration.
Responsables de la pratique:
Simon Cook
Autres avocats clés:
Tom O’Riordan; Laura Stone; Janine Guthrie; Jennifer Cockett; William Stone
Les références
‘Willans has great breadth and experience, with partners who cover all aspects of law and who are well respected within the local business community.’
‘Clear understandable and relatable professional advice delivered in a timely manner.’
‘Simon Cook – Calm competent patient and clear.’
Wollens
The private client team at Wollens is particularly well-versed in matters involving high-net-worth individuals, families and trustees. The group is headed up by Charlotte McGregor, who is a specialist in estate administration; adult safeguarding expert Edward Lee; and Karen Miller, who offers strategic advice on inheritance tax planning and trusts. Katrina Vollentine specialises in mental capacity and community care matters, while Christopher Linton’s varied caseload encompasses estate administration and tax planning.
Responsables de la pratique:
Charlotte McGregor; Edward Lee; Karen Miller
Autres avocats clés:
Katrina Vollentine; Christopher Linton; Alex Jenkins; Jonathan Dickson; Shirley Tull
Les références
‘The best team west of Bristol. Talented lawyers with a keen focus on providing a first-class service.’
‘A very strong team, who go out of their way to meet their clients’ needs. They are empathetic, with a great understanding of what is required, which they strive to achieve quickly and efficiently. I have nothing but admiration for the job that they do. They are the leaders in the field in the South West. ’
‘Both Katrina Vollentine and Edward Lee are excellent. They are very approachable and really know their stuff. They are supported by a fantastic team, who are from the same mould. A real strength is the personal touch they apply, which makes clients feel valued. They have been a pleasure to deal with over many years.’
BPE Solicitors LLP
The private wealth team at BPE Solicitors LLP represents both local and national clients. Sam Thornton spearheads the practice and has a particular niche in high value probates involving an international dimension, and trust matters. Shanade Smith routinely assists older clients and vulnerable individuals, and Philip Allen is also a key contact in the team. Amanda Attrell joined the firm in March 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Sam Thornton
Autres avocats clés:
Shanade Smith; Philip Allen; Amanda Attrell
Les références
‘Every interaction was handled with professionalism and care; their attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction truly stood out.’
‘Shanade Smith delivered exceptional client service at all times, demonstrating a firm understanding and judgment in the matters under consideration.’
‘In addition to offering a service of quality on many aspects of private client matters, the team will work intelligently to find pragmatic and efficient solutions.’
Frettens LLP
Trust-related matters are a key focus for the wills and tax team at Frettens LLP. James Hammersley and Lee Young lead the team from Christchurch and Ringwood respectively. Hammersley is well-regarded for his ‘technical ability’, often advising on complex wills and trust matters. The team was bolstered by the arrival of Nick Turner in March 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
James Hammersley; Lee Young
Autres avocats clés:
Nick Turner; Lauren Smallwood
Les références
‘The team are highly knowledgeable but at the same time friendly and approachable. They deliver a prompt and attentive service in a pragmatic manner.’
‘Lee Young has extensive knowledge and experience. He is very approachable and able to explain complex matters to clients in a simple manner. The sign of someone who is professionally highly competent.’
‘Lauren Smallwood works well with Lee and the wider department. She is very welcoming to clients and cares a great deal about them.’
GA Solicitors
Inheritance tax and trust planning expert Jonathan Hall heads the team at GA Solicitors. The team has significant expertise in trust and tax planning matters, capacity issues, probate, estate administration and Court of Protection work. Matthew Rose’s broad practice encompasses a wide array of issues, from tax and succession planning to trust creation, while Catherine Bailey is noted for her expertise in capacity-related issues, often advising elderly clients.
Responsables de la pratique:
Jonathan Hall
Autres avocats clés:
Matthew Rose; Catherine Bailey
Les références
‘We consider GA Solicitors to be one of the premier firms of solicitors in the Plymouth area. They strive to deliver first-class customer service at a competitive price.’
‘Catherine Bailey and Matthew Rose are both very personable people who are a pleasure to work with. They always offer sound advice in a way which is understandable to our clients at what is inevitably a very difficult time for them. They always deal with any enquiries promptly and keep us updated as matters progress.’
Goughs Solicitors
The team at Goughs Solicitors is geared to handle the full range of private client work. Practice head Emma Taylor’s expertise lies in complex property ownership and estate issues. Co-head Phillip Bolton is known for assisting high-net-worth, agricultural, and corporate clients. Sarah Loveless has extensive experience in wills and estate administration, while Trish Watkins specialises in incapacity issues. Elliot Chambers, Andrew Langbridge and David Patterson joined the firm in 2024.
Responsables de la pratique:
Emma Taylor; Phillip Bolton
Autres avocats clés:
Sarah Loveless; Trish Watkins; Elliot Chambers; Andrew Langbridge; David Patterson; Samantha Pettersen; Casey Gilroy
Les références
‘Samantha Pettersen is personable, knowledgeable and great to work alongside in our conflicted cases.’
‘The team are very approachable and knowledgeable, and also collaborative in their approach to providing clients with the best outcomes – they are not frightened to involve other professionals if they feel there is a need and it would add value to their client’s situation.’
‘A great team to deal with!’
Lester Aldridge LLP
Lester Aldridge LLP’s private client group is noted for its expertise in cross-border estate administration, often acting for North American and South African clients, as well as its handling of wealth planning matters for business owners. Tax and trusts specialist Kurt Lee leads the team alongside Oliver Phipps and Parisa Jones. Phipps oversees the firm’s international offering, while Jones primarily acts for vulnerable clients.
Responsables de la pratique:
Kurt Lee; Parisa Jones; Oliver Phipps
Les références
‘The team is knowledgeable and professional but also cares about its clients.’
‘Parisa Jones, she works really hard in bringing her team together and making connections with other professionals at the same time as delivering a great service to her clients.’
Porter Dodson LLP
At Porter Dodson LLP, the private client team’s varied caseload consists of long-term tax and succession planning mandates, care home funding work, trust creation and Court of Protection applications. Practice head Sharon Collier is adept at handling complex estate administration, while Kate James specialises in agricultural probate and succession planning. Tom Mottram and Paul Watkins are noted for their estate and wills expertise. Chris Dickinson, Ben Simpson and Susannah Emson joined the firm in 2024
Responsables de la pratique:
Sharon Collier
Autres avocats clés:
Kate James; Tom Mottram; Paul Watkins; Chris Dickinson; Ben Simpson; Susannah Emson; Sarah Stone
Les références
‘Porter Dodson in my view, is very much in the sweet spot in terms of its size. No so big that their service feels corporate or impersonal and big enough to have the necessary specialisms in house. ’
‘Susannah Emson is a standout practitioner, her approachable manner coupled with her ability to convey well thought through, technical advice in a practical, understandable way sets her apart. ’
‘Sharon Collier has always been exceptionally knowledgeable in her field and has a unique ability to put across the most complex legal aspect in a simple easy-to-understand way which makes the clients feel they are being spoken with rather than talked at.’
Wards Solicitors LLP
The ‘incredibly sensitive and caring team’ at Wards Solicitors LLP has expertise in family tax planning, trust management and vulnerable client work. Tom Scoffham is at the helm, routinely advising on will preparation, probate and estate administration and trust matters. Jenny Pierce and Rebecca Parkman are experts in later life planning, while Sion Richards is a key contact for Court of Protection applications. Laura Jakeways, Ruth Coles and Alison Mellor are also names to note.
Responsables de la pratique:
Tom Scoffham
Autres avocats clés:
Jenny Pierce; Rebecca Parkman; Sion Richards; Laura Jakeways; Ruth Coles; Alison Mellor
Les références
‘The Wards Team are an incredibly sensitive and caring team. With it being such a difficult time in our lives and a hard amount of work to navigate, I couldn’t have wished for a more sensitive, professional and caring team to help us with it all.’
‘Alison Mellor spent the time going through what needed to be done, how best to gather information but at no point made it feel hurried. She took the time to go over things and did not use legal language, making it easily understandable for a lay person. Set out clearly financial liabilities and potential pitfalls. Probate came through very quickly.’
‘I have found Ruth Coles to be efficient and always quick to answer questions and queries.’