Next Generation Partners

Leading Associates

Firms To Watch: Personal tax, trusts and probate

HTF Legal Limited, under the leadership of Helen Forster, has seen significant growth in recent years.
Weightmans LLP advises numerous high-net worth individuals in the region, with Paul Colman providing key support in Leeds.

Personal tax, trusts and probate in Yorkshire And The Humber

Addleshaw Goddard

Addleshaw Goddard is active on behalf of family trusts and high net worth individuals, including those with assets across the UK, Europe, and beyond. The group works closely with the larger corporate offering to advise owner-managed businesses on succession planning and other issues. Yorke Eaton, a specialist in trusts who heads the firm’s national private capital team, co-leads the department alongside Pervinder Kaur, whose particular area of expertise is advising in private client matters involving significant assets or private company interests. Laura Woffinden is a name to note, with experience advising high net worth and ultra-high net worth individuals and families.

Responsables de la pratique:

Yorke Eaton; Pervinder Kaur


Autres avocats clés:

Laura Woffinden; Katie Derry


Les références

‘A very strong partner-lead team with significant experience in relation to trusts and dealing with beneficiaries.’

‘Pervinder Kaur is a very able partner who shows total commitment to her work in relation to trusts, and dealing with problems that arise.’

‘Yorke Eaton is a very good partner; very intelligent and a good commercial awareness. Builds good relationships with his clients.’

Irwin Mitchell

Irwin Mitchell‘s rapidly expanding team covers all aspects of wealth and succession planning, and acts for a range of domestic and international clients. In addition to catering to a range of high net worth individuals and families, the group works with numerous prominent charities to provide will writing and estate administration services. Gillian Coverley, who is a joint head of the national lifetime and estate planning team, co-heads the department with Andrea Jones. Thomas Wainman is a key contact for inheritance tax and estate planning, while Emma McCann advises on wills, trusts, and later life planning. Hollie Marcham is a core team member, with experience in international matters.

Responsables de la pratique:

Gillian Coverley; Andrea Jones


Autres avocats clés:

Thomas Wainman; Hollie Marcham; Katherine Wainman; Emma McCann; Elizabeth Pearson


Les références

‘I had full confidence that my lawyer understood all aspects of my case, which gave me much comfort in a difficult time.’

‘Gillian Coverley was empathetic, professional, and I have not once doubted her ability. I would not hesitate to recommend her or her practice to others.’

‘The team is cohesive and collaborative. They not only know their stuff but also know when to call in other specialists to work alongside. They have the skills and knowledge to be able to think outside of the box where it is appropriate and beneficial to the client.’

Principaux clients

Macmillan Cancer Support


Stroke Association


Finders


Santander UK


Age Co/Age UK


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised Macmillan Cancer Support supporters on wills and legacy planning, raising many millions of pounds of legacies for the charity.
  • Supported Santander’s vulnerable customers with provisions of wills, powers of attorney and estate administration advice.

Mills & Reeve LLP

Mills & Reeve LLP acts for a significant proportion of the region’s high net worth individuals and families, providing guidance on the full range of wealth management and estate planning issues. The group provides a broad range of tax and trust advice, and has notable expertise in family investment companies. Ellie Milner, whose practice covers wills, estate planning, and personal tax matters, co-heads the department with Andrew Playle, who additionally leads the firm’s national private wealth group, and is experienced in advising both domestic and international clients. Nicola Turner is a name to note, with key expertise in estate and trust administration. Rachel MacIntosh specialises in succession planning.

Responsables de la pratique:

Andrew Playle; Ellie Milner


Autres avocats clés:

Nicola Turner; Rachel MacIntosh


Raworths

Raworths‘ private client team works alongside the firm’s other departments, including the commercial and real estate groups, to advise on the management of clients with complex asset bases, frequently involving multiple jurisdictions. Rachel Tunnicliffe leads the team, and has more than 30 years’ experience in the practice area. Caroline Hedges is experienced in complex trust matters, Alison Walker covers all aspects of wills, trusts, and succession issues, and Peter Greswold is noted for his strength in matters involving private equity. Sam Jenner has a broad practice, with expertise in IT issues. Rachel Mainwaring-Taylor, who joined from Farrer & Co in June 2023, is a key name.

Responsables de la pratique:

Rachel Tunnicliffe


Autres avocats clés:

Caroline Hedges; Peter Greswold; Sam Jenner; Alison Walker


Les références

‘Incredible strength in depth with a level of emotional intelligence way above any other firm.’

‘Simply the highest levels of technical ability, overlaid with the most complete interpersonal skills and just plain simple nice people.’

‘Rachel Mainwaring-Taylor is brilliant. I recommend her for tax and estate planning, and she is highly experienced in art and heritage law.’

Wrigleys Solicitors LLP

Wrigleys Solicitors LLP acts on behalf of a diverse range of high and ultra-high net worth clients, with particular expertise advising farming and land-owning groups, family business owners, and injured and disabled individuals. Andrew Wriglesworth, whose particular area of expertise is landed estates, co-leads in Leeds alongside managing partner Marie-Louise Hamilton, who heads the trust management and family business teams. Jane Netting and Lynne Bradey additionally co-lead the team, and are based in Sheffield. Angus Hunter Smart is a key name for succession planning for landowning clients, while Julia Boyes covers trust law and a broad range of tax issues. Recent changes to the team include the recruitment of Suzannah Farnell from Veta Law in January 2023, and Chelsea Martin‘s promotion to partner, in May 2023.

Responsables de la pratique:

Andrew Wriglesworth; Marie-Louise Hamilton; Jane Netting; Lynne Bradey


Autres avocats clés:

Angus Hunter Smart; Julia Boyes; Julia Rangecroft; Suzannah Farnell; Chelsea Martin; Orlando Bridgeman


Les références

‘They have a solid understanding of estate owner’s objectives, and a no nonsense approach to advice.’

‘Angus Hunter Smart and Orlando Bridgeman have the ability to take the initiative and provide proactive advice as part of a team.’

‘Practical and solid experience and advice is provided across the partner team in regard to will and estate planning, as well as pre-nuptial agreements.’

Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP

Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP, based in Hull, covers all aspects of estate and trust planning and administration, with experience in matters involving assets across Europe and beyond. Richard Hoare leads the team, and has strength in estate and tax planning. Geraldine Martin is a key contact for wills and trusts. Sally Price covers issues relating to inheritance tax. Edward Allen has left the firm.

Responsables de la pratique:

Richard Hoare


Autres avocats clés:

Geraldine Martin; Sally Price


Les références

‘These solicitors were approachable, empathetic and understanding at a very difficult time. From initial contact with the receptionist taking my call, meeting the solicitor and going through the whole process, they were efficient, timely and professional.’

‘All levels of staff were approachable and responded to my enquiries in a timely manner. I was able to communicate via email, telephone and face to face, all with ease. My solicitor was very professional and made it very clear in regard to data protection and at no time did I feel uncomfortable with the process.’

‘Richard Hoare provided very good advice and he has extensive experience. He clearly provided options and allowed time for reflection by the client. Where there were topics that could become emotional he was understanding and maintained a very professional approach to ensure I received the best objective advice.’

Clarion

Clarion fields a large team with significant experience advising complex, multi-generational families on all aspects of private client issues, working closely alongside other departments within the firm to provide comprehensive support in all related commercial matters. Stephanie Parish, who leads the private wealth team, co-heads the department alongside Lynsey Harrison. Gareth Marland, who previously served as co-head, has particular strength in the farming sector.

Responsables de la pratique:

Stephanie Parish; Lynsey Harrison


Autres avocats clés:

Gareth Marland; Natalie Goldfinch; Brindley Meredith


Les références

‘Stephanie Parish is friendly, approachable and confidence-inspiring.’

‘Practical and personalised advice and service. Responsive and proactive – a really enjoyable experience to work with Clarion.’

‘Clarion is a firm that I wouldn’t hesitate to introduce clients to, each and every department that I have worked with, the service and professionalism is second to none. In particular, I refer clients for guidance & advice on personal tax, trusts and probate. The feedback from clients is always positive and the team always takes a view of the clients’ entire position/family position’

Schofield Sweeney

Schofield Sweeney is a popular choice for numerous prominent high net worth individuals and families, including those holding complex multijurisdictional assets. The group covers all aspects of estate and succession planning, with expertise in matters relating to trusts, real estate, and tax matters. Ashley Iredale, who is based in Huddersfield, co-leads the group alongside John Feaster in Bradford, and the 'highly intelligent and personable' Simon Glazebrook in Leeds. Jessica Savage joined the team from Milners Solicitors in late 2023.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ashley Iredale; John Feaster; Simon Glazebrook


Autres avocats clés:

Duncan Watson; Jessica Savage


Les références

‘Everyone we speak to on a professional-to-professional basis make the complicated seem rudimentary and therefore digestible. Everyone is just really nice.’

‘Personal touch and memory of personal facts. Simon Glazebrook is my personal go-to. He really is great to know, highly intelligent and personable to professionals and clients alike. His ability to make complicated matters understandable is second to none. He stands out above other lawyers I have dealt with before in terms of his intellect and ability to apply that in a useable format.’

‘Schofield Sweeney punches above its weight when it comes to clients and expertise. Their team has a huge amount of experience when it comes to high net worth individuals and the solicitors and partners in the team carry significant experience and technical ability.’

Wake Smith Solicitors Limited

Wake Smith Solicitors Limited fields a ‘cohesive, well-rounded team,’ with expertise in wills, trusts, and probate. The group has experience acting internationally, including across the US and Australia. Team lead Suzanne Porter, praised by clients for her ‘drive, passion and commitment,’ covers all aspects of estate administration and inheritance tax planning. Colleen Dooney is a key contact within the team for numerous charity clients. Stephanie Chung is a name to note.

Responsables de la pratique:

Suzanne Porter


Autres avocats clés:

Stephanie Chung; Colleen Dooney


Les références

‘The team is at all times professionals who go above and beyond to help.’

‘Suzanne Porter is the leader of a team which is empowered and encouraged to go the extra mile.’

‘Stephanie Chung is fantastic. Great to work alongside and discuss ideas with. She’s friendly, knowledgeable and extremely approachable. A real asset to the wills and probate team.’

Ward Hadaway LLP

Ward Hadaway LLP‘s long-established private client department advises individuals and multigenerational families on all aspects of private client work. The group benefits from the support of the firm’s corporate, real estate, and family teams, providing comprehensive service. Andrew Facer co-leads the department with Andrew Evans. Other key names include the ‘very experienced’ Vivienne Wild, who works on behalf of high and ultra-high net worth individuals based throughout England and internationally.

Responsables de la pratique:

Andrew Facer; Andrew Evans


Autres avocats clés:

Vivienne Wild; Suzanne Jaconelli


Les références

‘The team has a wealth of knowledge and experience amongst it.’

‘Had personal dealings with Vivienne Wild, who is very experienced in wills and trusts. She is very detailed, but has the ability to explain complex situations in simple terms. Andrew Evans is very thorough and experienced with complex probate issues. Both are very responsive.’

‘The private client team at Ward Hadaway offers strength in depth on all key matters relating to wills, trusts, and tax generally. With such a strong team there is always an individual solicitor who is expert in a key area which is very reassuring.’

Berwins

Berwins is particularly adept in matters relating to estate planning, wills, and inheritance tax planning, with a reputation for 'commitment to staying ahead of the curve and delivering exceptional service.' The Harrogate-based team is jointly led by Liam O’Neill, who additionally covers contentious issues, and Derek Hellawell.

Responsables de la pratique:

Liam O’Neill; Derek Hellawell


Les références

‘Liam O’Neill is great with clients, very knowledgeable, very helpful, and pragmatic. A pleasure to work with.’

‘What sets Berwins apart is the remarkable synergy among the team members. Each member brings a unique set of skills and expertise to the table, resulting in a comprehensive approach to addressing clients’ needs. From tax specialists to probate experts, everyone collaborates seamlessly to deliver tailored solutions that exceed expectations.’

‘One of the standout features of Berwins is the emphasis on innovation. In an industry where tradition often reigns supreme, they stand out for their forward-thinking approach. Whether it’s embracing cutting-edge technology to streamline processes or fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion, they are at the forefront of change.’

Harrowells Solicitors

Harrowells Solicitors advises landowners and other high net worth individuals and families on trusts, and succession and tax planning. The group has experience in the management of multijurisdictional estates, and those involving complex property elements. The team is led by the ‘outstanding’ Ed Ryder, whose specialism is inheritance tax and matters relating to succession.

Responsables de la pratique:

Ed Ryder


Autres avocats clés:

Philip Nelson; Emily Moss


Les références

‘The correspondence was sincere at all times, especially when the family are going through a very sensitive time in their lives.’

‘When dealing with Harrowells as a customer, you very soon become aware of their exceptional professional skills. You are carefully guided through the various processes involved in your case. Whatever you ask is answered and fully explained in great, but understandable, detail.’

‘Ed Ryder is outstanding. He is professional and approachable. I cannot recommend him highly enough.’

Principaux dossiers


Wilkin Chapman LLP

Wilkin Chapman LLP has a particular focus on succession and tax planning issues, and is noted for its strength in the agricultural sector. With significant experience advising vulnerable and elderly clients, the group handles all matters relating to asset protection, tax mitigation, and estate administration. Lesley Archer, who has over 25 years’ experience in the practice area, is highly active on behalf of land-owning farming clients. Laura Fahy is a key name within the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Lesley Archer


Autres avocats clés:

Laura Fahy


Les références

‘Laura Fahy is notable for her transparency, communication, patience and general practice.’

‘All the people I have come in contact with have been very helpful.’

‘The solicitor dealing with me is Laura Fahy. She has been particularly helpful. Always sympathetic and courteous. She is approachable, whilst remaining professional. Her guidance and knowledge have been most reassuring.’

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP

Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP is regularly active on behalf of clients with complex international and multinational assets, working closely with the firm’s other offices throughout the UK and US. The group provides strategic advice in the administration of trusts and estates, including succession planning and tax optimisation. Susan Maxey, who leads the team, is noted for her expertise in trusts and family-owned businesses. Fiona McLaughlin provides key support.

Responsables de la pratique:

Susan Maxey


Autres avocats clés:

Fiona McLaughlin; Nicholas Payne; Stephanie Antrobus


Blacks Solicitors LLP

Blacks Solicitors LLP‘s ‘highly professional’ team advises on all matters relating to wills, probate, and estate administration. The practice is led by Nick Rhodes, who is highly experienced in working with vulnerable clients, and advises on inheritance tax planning, the preparation of wills, and the administration of estates. Annie Beaumont and Jenna Keough are key names within the team.

Responsables de la pratique:

Nick Rhodes


Autres avocats clés:

Annie Beaumont; Jenna Keough


Les références

‘Highly professional, with a genuine can-do attitude.’

‘A feeling that you are being cared for AND cared about. Knowledgeable and professional, but importantly, approachable and refreshingly honest in their advice.’

‘I find this practice gives clients individual attention as needed. I can only speak for myself, but they have given me everything I asked for and advice when they felt it was needed. They have made me feel that they understand my problems and give me advice on how to deal with them.’

Emsleys Solicitors Limited

Emsleys Solicitors Limited handles a diverse range of complex matters relating to wills and probate, including issues involving multiple jurisdictions. ‘Brilliant’ team lead Elizabeth Webb has significant experience in the practice area, and covers wills, trusts, and estate planning. Joanne Pitchfork has key expertise in estate administration.

Responsables de la pratique:

Elizabeth Webb


Autres avocats clés:

Joanne Pitchfork; Poppy Walker; Josephine Cuttill


Les références

‘They are friendly, at no point are you left feeling daunted. They unpick all the legal jargon and make it understandable. There are clear timeframes of how long the work or issue is going to take. You are left in no doubt what to expect. No question or query is out of bounds.’

‘Elizabeth Webb was brilliant, very authoritative in her line of expertise, ready to hold your hand through all of the checklists when dealing with probate and making sure the will is adhered to in a meticulous and timely manner. Kept everyone involved in the loop.’

‘At the end of the whole process I was thankful as without the help and guidance I would have been quite ill and anxious.’

Graysons Solicitors

Graysons Solicitors‘ long-established team, based in Sheffield, covers a broad range of issues relating to trusts and probate. The group maintains strong links with numerous local charities, and frequently works on behalf of vulnerable clients. Laura Cowan, who leads the team, specialises in probate work.

Responsables de la pratique:

Laura Cowan


Les références

‘I feel they are continuing to improve all aspects of their business model for the benefit of their clients, which gives us confidence to continue using them.’

‘They acted responsibly and with integrity.’

LCF Law

LCF Law acts on behalf of numerous high net worth individuals and family trusts, and has experience advising on personal injury and vulnerable beneficiary trusts. Neil Shaw, who leads the team, has significant experience in wills, trusts, and estate planning. Also key are inheritance tax expert Ann Christian, and Amjed Zaman, who made partner in 2023, and specialises in cross-border estates and Sharia-compliant advice.

Responsables de la pratique:

Neil Shaw


Autres avocats clés:

Ann Christian; Amjed Zaman; Hana Gwyn


Les références

‘Amjed Zaman stands out because of his approachable nature and high level of responsiveness.’

‘I deal with Neil Shaw at LCF. He is quick to respond and always keeps us up to date. His technical knowledge, and that of his team, means we obtain clear, confident, and relevant advice.’

‘I am very impressed with LCF Law, they are very thorough and responsive, caring and professional.’

McCormicks

McCormicks is active on a broad range of trusts, wills, and Court of Protection matters, with further expertise in the administration of estates, including those involving international assets. Peter McCormick jointly leads the department alongside Elaine Lightfoot, who has notable strength in the agricultural sector.

Responsables de la pratique:

Peter McCormick; Elaine Lightfoot


Principaux clients

The Premier League


Principaux dossiers


  • Advised the Premier League in respect of structures to protect young players from financial predators.

Ramsdens Solicitors LLP

Ramsdens Solicitors LLP provides comprehensive service on all matters relating to wills, trusts, estates and tax planning, with supplementary expertise in personal injury and clinical negligence issues. The team is led by Veronica Mullins, in Holmfirth, who has significant knowledge of wills and trusts. Michael Robinson made partner in 2023.

Responsables de la pratique:

Veronica Mullins


Autres avocats clés:

Alastair James; Michael Robinson; Natalie Lang


Les références

‘The team at Ramsdens were amazing. I found them all to be very professional, however what I liked better was how friendly and caring they are. They made sure we were informed and updated with all the information we needed to know at the different stages.’

‘Michael Robinson at Ramsdens was truly outstanding. I like him very much. He is such a professional man and very clever – the communication was great, and he was very understanding. The support he showed was more than just a solicitor, I felt that I could really talk to him, and he listened.’

‘Everyone at Ramsdens was extremely helpful. They kept me informed of all the steps taken and handled the issue in a timely manner.’

Ridley & Hall

Ridley & Hall‘s team works across multiple Yorkshire offices to provide services in will writing and estate administration, with notable strength acting on behalf of vulnerable and elderly clients. Thomas Grice and Sarah Young jointly lead the team. Price specialises in wills, probate, and lasting powers of attorney, while Young is particularly adept in contentious matters. Hannah Pedley is a name to note.

Responsables de la pratique:

Thomas Grice; Sarah Young


Autres avocats clés:

Hannah Pedley


Les références

‘Local employees who are approachable and contactable.’

‘Thomas Grice is approachable, comes back quickly and feels very honest in advice.’