Firms To Watch: Personal tax, trusts and probate

Watson Ramsbottom has had an impressive spell of recruitment and internal promotions which have bolstered its contentious tax, trusts and probate offering. The firm routinely acts on complex estate management disputes, Court of Protection matters, and advises on the removal and replacement of executors and deputies. Group head Stuart Maher brings considerable experience and expertise to the team.

Personal tax, trusts and probate in North West

Addleshaw Goddard

One of the sector's most experienced names, Addleshaw Goddard regularly advises clients with a wealth of overseas assets on wills, succession, and cross-border estate planning. The firm advise clients on the establishment of a variety of investment vehicles, including family investment companies, and are adept at restructuring trusts. Furthermore, the team demonstrate expertise in specialised areas of work such as the establishment of overseas gaming licenses, guiding philanthropic and education planning endeavors, and overseeing the transfer of trusteeships and trust properties. A leading player in private client matters, Manchester head Yorke Eaton advises trustees on their duties and advises on asset protection and tax planning, as well as acting on the creation of trusts in corporate transactions. National head Yorke Eaton competently engages with cross border matters, while Jane Shaw has particular expertise in inheritance tax mitigation and succession planning. Laura Woffinden continues to lend expert advice on corporate and banking transactions.

Practice head(s):

Yorke Eaton; Pervinder Kaur


Other key lawyers:

Jane Shaw; Laura Woffinden


Testimonials

‘It doesn’t matter who I deal with within the organisation the experience is first class! This year was a primary example with a seamless transition between lawyers due to maternity leave.’

‘Yorke Eaton is easy to get along and is technically exceptional. He excels both in the professional and social environments and builds a strong rapport with clients.’

‘The mixture of knowledge, experience and ability, coupled with warmth, humility and informal approachability has made what could be a daunting process far more comfortable and reassuring.’

‘The willingness of the people to be informal, flexible and responsive to our needs has given us tremendous value in terms of legal compliance, forward planning and mental comfort that we are in capable and safe hands. This is led from the front by Yorke Eaton who is calm personified across the various individual and corporate structures we have as a wider family.’

‘Very well-established practice in the North West, with a phenomenal client list. The team have an amazing depth of skills and knowledge, and, from that experience, they are well placed to deal with most matters.’

‘Yorke Eaton leads the team. He is sharp and a no-nonsense adviser – he is pragmatic and a problem solver, which clients appreciate.’

Work highlights


Brabners LLP

A firm with offices in Manchester, Liverpool, Lancashire and Leeds, Brabners LLP provide a full-service offering due to its considerably deep bench of lawyers and comprehensive regional coverage. National head Duncan Bailey in trust, tax and will planning, as well as acting as a professional trustee for clients and assisting with Lasting Powers of Attorney. Louise Scholes fronts the Liverpool office and has been routinely involved with Court of Protection applications, advising on inheritance tax mitigation, and drafting wills, regularly working alongside Mark Feeny who leverages his extensive private client experience to counsel on the full range of firm matters. Manchester head Steven Appleton continues to act on complex cases regarding capacity and guiding clients through philanthropic endeavours, while Sarah Murphy, who leads the Lancashire office, has specialist expertise in disabled trusts and Conditional Exemption eligibility. The ‘technically brilliant’ Amanda Bailey has established strength in the establishment of both traditional trusts and more alternative investment vehicles, such as family investment companies.

Practice head(s):

Duncan Bailey; Louise Scholes; Steven Appleton; Sarah Murphy


Other key lawyers:

Mark Feeny; Amanda Bailey


Testimonials

‘Duncan Bailey is an exceptional Advisor. He is able to make complex issues seem simple and delivers advice in a fantastic, friendly yet always professional manner.’

‘Great diversity within the team, and everyone is available to help with queries and is actively encouraged to do so. Brilliant ability to make complex matters seem straightforward, and we’ve had good feedback from the clients that we have introduced.’

‘Very down to earth people, who truly care. Special mention goes to Rachel James, Legal Director, and Steven Appleton, Head of Private Client in Manchester, who I have worked alongside on a number of cases this year.’

Work highlights


Hill Dickinson LLP

A firm with roots dating back to 1810, Hill Dickinson LLP has an established regional presence regarding tax and trusts work. The team is well versed advising foreign domiciles on their UK assets, guiding clients through various structuring arrangements and investment vehicles to mitigate tax exposure. Furthermore, the firm regularly advise high net-worth individuals on lifetime gifts, including the gifting of company shares, detailing the tax consequences for various options. Liverpool head Fionnuala Kenny has strong expertise in succession planning and inheritance tax mitigation and is skilled in the establishment of UK-based trusts, while Paul Baker is known as a go-to cross-border matters and the creation of alternative trusts. Susan Sherry is intimately familiar with Court of Protection and Lasting Powers of Attorney matters, working closely with vulnerable and restricted individual. Katie Austin has a wide caseload and is adept at managing the interests of multiple beneficiaries.

Practice head(s):

Fionnuala Kenny


Other key lawyers:

Paul Baker; Susan Sherry; Katie Austin


Testimonials

‘I am a private client at Hill Dickinson LLP Wills, Trusts & Probate Department. The team works very well and closely together. For many years I have only dealt with Hill Dickinson LLP.’

‘Fionnuala Kenny, partner, is the solicitor who has handled my affairs for many years. She is unfailingly efficient. I greatly value her advice. She always acts promptly. She advises me expertly on all my financial affairs and my late first husband’s will trust. I am very glad that I became her client 25 years ago.’

‘Helpful team’.

Work highlights


Hugh Jones Solicitors

A leading player in Court of Protection work, Hugh Jones Solicitors is regularly appointed as deputies to act on the behalf of vulnerable individuals. Name partner Hugh Jones specilaises in mental capacity work, as well as complex asset tracing and financial abuse investigation work; he routinely works alongside Chris Gallagher, who is well versed in Lasting Powers of Attorney issues, the appointment and removal of deputies, as well as a broad range of property and affairs applications. The team has recently bolstered its capacity for a full-service, with the arrival of Jill Rushton from Stephensons Solicitors LLP, a move which expands the already strong private client team, headed by Charlotte Crawford. Managing director Elizabeth Hughes continues to oversee the practice’s Court of Protection work, including complex clinical negligence cases, while Catherine Oakes is actively involved in mental capacity and personal injury issues.

Practice head(s):

Elizabeth Hughes; Chris Gallagher; Charlotte Crawford


Other key lawyers:

Hugh Jones; Jill Rushton; Catherine Oakes


Testimonials

‘Very friendly and approachable. The firm possesses a high level of expertise. Certainty one of the leading private client and court of protection practices. We trust them with our court of protection and private client work knowing that they will provide our clients with the highest possible level of service.’

‘Chris Gallagher has an excellent level of knowledge in his area of expertise. Client focused, approachable and always willing to go that extra mile.

‘They are excellent in helping people to manage their finances. They allow people as much freedom as possible to do so. They are careful when they spend client money but generous to client requests at the same time. They are a well-oiled machine and the treat each client as if they are the only client. I can highly recommend them.’

‘Excellent team to be used as expert witnesses in catastrophic injury cases where there is a lack of capacity and the Claimant is a protected person. Experienced in providing expert evidence to the court as to the fact of capacity and the likely costs of the deputy in the Court of Protection.’

‘I have known Hugh Jones for many years, first working with him just when I was starting my career as a Court of Protection specialist. As well as being an excellent lawyer, Hugh has always been focused on the client and genuinely cares about outcomes. He is also able to build an excellent rapport with clients, leading to long standing relationships that he carries through to this day.’

‘Charlotte Crawford is my contact solicitor. Both in my role as a trustee and for personal matters she has always been patient and understanding but also efficient and professional.’

‘Our organisation has worked with Hugh Jones Solicitors for a number of years and this is because of their level of professionalism and expertise in the field of deputyships and Court of Protection. They have supported us in supporting many vulnerable adults as professional deputy. Their service is prompt, friendly, professional and exceptional at all times – they are on hand for support and advice when needed.’

‘I instruct Elizabeth Hughes for the purposes of deputyship witness statements for costings on my high value brain injury claims and instruct her as an independent expert on behalf of NHS Trusts. Her attention to detail, reliability, efficiency and responsiveness is excellent and she is easy to work with.’

Work highlights


JMW Solicitors LLP

Complex Court of Protection matters and multi-jurisdictional private client work form the cornerstone of the practice at JMW Solicitors LLP. The team are increasingly involved with financial abuse cases, as well as deputyship work, while demonstrating aparticular strength in alternative investment structures, a key feature of private client head Joe Cobb‘s practice. Cross-border work centres on trust planning and restructuring for new domiciles, and the team is also active on Court of Protection cases, led by Megan Christie-Copeland, such as forensic investigations into missing accounts and investments, obtaining capacity assessments and establishing Lasting Powers of Attorney. Andrew Cusworth competently handles the firm’s cross border work and continues to provide trusted support to individuals who lack capacity. Russell Kaminski is an expert within the evolving cryptocurrency and digital asset landscapes.

Practice head(s):

Joe Cobb; Megan Christie-Copeland


Other key lawyers:

Andrew Cusworth; Rebecca Brown; Russell Kaminski


Testimonials

‘Joe Cobb provides excellent, detailed, pragmatic advice to clients. He has the ability to get to the heart of each issue and provide the most appropriate solution for the individual circumstances.’

‘Rebecca Brown is an excellent choice for advice in complex clinical negligence claims involving Claimants with lifelong needs in relation to the costs of managing high value settlements.’

‘Joe Cobb is exceptional in front of clients and a wonderful contact for general advice in my day-to-day operations. I have only ever heard positive reviews of Joe and that echoes my experience and that of my clients.’

‘Russell Kaminski has been brilliant. Extremely knowledgeable and came highly recommended to my clients looking for a solicitor.’

‘JMW have a dynamic team with a wealth of knowledge and experience to deal with the most complex of cases. Always proactive in their day to day and always able to find solutions to whatever is put in front of them all with superb level of communication throughout the process providing confidence and reassurance to their clients in a difficult period.’

‘Joe Cobb Partner and Russell Kaminski – What makes these individuals stand out in what is an excellent team in its entirety is the level of care that they provide. Always on hand to discuss matters while connecting on a human level they are expert problem solvers nothing is ever an issue.’

‘The quality of the partners is the most important factor when leading a business in the local market and JMW have some of the most experienced partners in the private client space, which is key to their success.’

‘Joe Cobb is very easy to deal with and has a no-nonsense approach. He very quickly understands the matters in-hand and, through his experience, he knows how to deal with it effectively and in the client’s best interests.’

Work highlights


Kuit Steinart Levy LLP

A firm boasting a deep-rooted connection to the local market alongside a portfolio of international cases, Manchester-based Kuit Steinart Levy LLP is highly reputed for its work for high-net worth clients, advising on complex tax, estate and succession planning matters. Inheritance tax mitigation remains at the heart of its private client work, with the team advising families outside the UK with both offshore and onshore assets regarding their exposure to the IHT system. The firm also demonstrate expertise in personal injury trusts, complex business arrangements and specialist tax investigations. Head of department Paul Bricknell works closely with clients to explore investment vehicles such as family investment companies, whilst also heading the specialist team advising on Employee Ownership trusts. Graham Wood is active on a range of matters including Personal Injury Trusts and capacity issues, while Lauren Clyne‘s practice centres on high value estates with international elements.

 

Practice head(s):

Paul Bricknell


Other key lawyers:

Graham Wood; Lauren Clyne


Testimonials

‘Strong technical expertise combined with excellent client handling skills.’

‘Knowledgeable and pragmatic advice.’

Work highlights


  • Advised on the disposal by the Charitable Trust of an investment property and put in place a number of matched funding arrangements e.g. funding places at Manchester University which cover some of the costs of Oldham students accessing tertiary education.

Mills & Reeve LLP

Mills & Reeve LLP act on a range of personal tax and estate matters, including inheritance tax mitigation strategies, advising on trusts and trustee duties, and the creation of charities. Practice head Deborah Clark has specialist expertise in family investment companies, with a nationwide practice focused on high-net-worth individuals in sectors, such as professional services and finance. Zahra Siddiqui provides trusted counsel to clients with assets in multiple jurisdictions, advising on double tax treaties and safeguarding wills against tax challenges, and has a strong client network in the sports sector. Charlotte Shaughnessy works alongside business owners and entrepreneurs to advise on succession and tax planning and has a strong understanding of navigating business and agricultural tax relief claims. Christopher Noel joined the practice from DWF in September 2023.

Practice head(s):

Deborah Clark; Zahra Siddiqui


Other key lawyers:

Charlotte Shaughnessy; Christopher Noel


Testimonials

‘A friendly personable and knowledgeable team with a good blend of experience.’

‘Zahra Siddiqui is an exceptional lawyer with the right blend of experience, knowledge and personal qualities to put clients at ease.’

Work highlights


Butcher & Barlow LLP

Butcher & Barlow LLP is able to ‘navigate the complex area of inheritance planning’, advising clients on will drafting, the establishment of trusts, and potential tax charges. The team has considerable overlap with their agricultural colleagues, servicing the farming community through the considerable expertise of Mike Bracegirdle. Newly appointed team head Tim Bailey, who also has a proficiency in agricultural issues and estates, has a broad practice including advising on foreign assets and helping disabled beneficiaries through trusts, while Frodsham-based Philip Jennings focuses on Court of Protection work. Chris Hopkins has experience acting as a professional trustee and boasts a wide client list of high net-worth individuals. Helen Chadderton, who joined from Jobling Gowler Solicitors in September 2022, has taken on a broad caseload featuring both private client and Court of Protection work, while Samuel Dale leverages his contentious probate expertise to advise on complicated wills and estate matters.

Practice head(s):

Tim Bailey


Other key lawyers:

Mike Bracegirdle; Phil Jennings; Chris Hopkins; Helen Chadderton; Samuel Dale


Testimonials

‘Introduced through a wealth manager who had used the firm previously for similar matters. Personally, I feel their strength is being able to navigate the complex area of inheritance planning for individual in a family business structure. They were happy to attend meetings with other persons involved in tax and inheritance planning such as accountants and wealth management.’

‘Chris Hopkins was approachable and sensible in matters which can sometimes be lead by the head or the heart. He played devils advocate to ensure options were considered which may not have been originally included in the structure.’

‘Phil Jennings at the Frodsham Office is just simply put very good at his job. His expertise and experience mean that I feel I can trust his advice and ability to get the job done without fuss. He is always super helpful and accommodating, provides regular written updates and available in-person, on the phone or by video conference when I have needed to talk with him in more depth than can be covered in email.’

Work highlights


Clarke Willmott LLP

A firm with offices spanning England and Wales, Clarke Willmott LLP cements its regional presence with a Manchester offering focused on tax compliance and mitigation, cross-border asset management, and the creation of trusts. The team has demonstratable expertise in the creation of charities, including liaising with the Charity Commission and guiding clients through compliance issues. Paul Davies heads the department and has established strength in the creation and restructuring of both onshore and offshore trusts, as well as advising domicile and non-UK domicile clients holding overseas assets. Rebecca Clarke is also active on matters and has a broad practice. including complex cross-border estate administration.

Practice head(s):

Paul Davies


Other key lawyers:

Rebecca Clarke


Work highlights


DTM Legal LLP

DTM Legal LLP has a strong reputation in the Cheshire and Liverpool market for providing expert advice on high value tax and trust matters. The team has a detailed understanding of alternative investment structures such as Family Investment Companies, the restructuring of trusts, and also tax exposure and the eligibility for agricultural and business relief. Richard Thomas oversees the department and focuses on issues regarding Inheritance Act claims, disputed wills and capacity and under influence concerns, while Heather Lally advises business owners, farmers and high net-worth families, routinely holding assets in multiple jurisdictions, on will drafting and succession planning. Stephen Mackellar is also highly active in the practice, particularly on trust creation and administration matters.

Practice head(s):

Richard Thomas


Other key lawyers:

Heather Lally; Stephen Mackellar


Testimonials

‘The organisation has real strength and depth across all departments. The ability to utilise these disciplines in the advice process provides a quality rounded outcome.

‘Heather Lally is incredibly knowledgeable and happy to share ideas. Having dealt with various legal firms over the years, the precision of the advice and desire to get a positive outcome is stand-out.’

‘A great multi-disciplinary practice, where all of the various parts of the practice genuinely work together to deliver client advice/solutions, rather than being silo based. People talk to each other, share information and this means they understand their clients much better.’

Work highlights


DWF

DWF advises on mandates ranging from complex trust creations to applying for Lasting Powers of Attorney, with a particular specialism in advising business owners and company directors on succession and tax planning. Noted for its collaborations with colleagues in the corporate and tax departments, the team is also able to advise trustees in senior positions on shareholder disputes and share sales. Nicole Chadwick is a key name to note, with experience safeguarding foreign assets and handling lack of capacity and undue influence concerns.

Other key lawyers:

Nicole Chadwick


Testimonials

‘A great team with a great reputation.’

‘Very well established practice in the North West and very commercial.’


Key clients

Lloyds Bank plc


Work highlights


Myerson Solicitors LLP

Myerson Solicitors LLP acts on a range of estate and succession planning matters, advising clients on tax mitigation avenues through both traditional onshore and offshore trusts and alternative vehicles such as family investment companies. The team has also been active counselling individuals on gift options and the establishment of charitable trusts. Team head Bik-Ki Wong deals with complex estates and trusts, often with a cross-border aspect, as well as competently handling cases where mental capacity and undue influence is questioned. Clara Staunton has expertise in will drafting, lifetime trusts and tax relief, while Simon Cieluch, who has a broad practice, leverages a particular focus on complex estates and disputes amongst executors and beneficiaries.

Practice head(s):

Bik-ki Wong


Other key lawyers:

Simon Cieluch; Clara Staunton


Testimonials

‘The team at Myersons continue to provide excellent support to this Family Office. They are diligent professionals always on hand with expert advice delivered in a friendly and meaningful way.’

‘Not only are Bik-ki Wong and Clara Staunton a standout team themselves, they also feel like they are part of our team as well.’

‘I have always enjoyed working with Bik-ki Wong. She is always available and happy to explain complex issues in manner that myself and my clients can understand. A rare commodity amongst private client lawyers.’

‘They go the extra mile to help their clients.’

‘Approachable, knowledgeable and competent.’

‘Bi Ki Wong & Clara Staunton are very clear and know what they’re doing.’

‘Very experienced and highly skilled team. Very good to work with on those matters where collaborative working required.’

‘I have worked with Bik-ki Wong and Clara Staunton both of whom are very experienced, have a great manner with clients and highly skilled technically.’

Work highlights


Oglethorpe Sturton & Gillibrand

The ‘positive’, ‘proactive’, and ‘approachable’ Oglethorpe Sturton & Gillibrand is particularly strong on the establishment and restructuring of trusts, including lifetime and personal injury trusts. The team work on various estate and succession planning matters, with a focus on inheritance and capital gains tax mitigation and is comfortable dealing with assets in foreign jurisdictions. Clare Love fronts the department and has a broad private client practice, with a notable specialism in agricultural and rural estates, as well as complex cross border estates. Mark Hutchinson Lyons is ‘highly knowledgeable’ on matters involving trusts, advising on lifetime and wills trusts, creating and maintaining charitable trusts, and exercising trust powers. Laura Brereton has been active on complicated agricultural estate cases, where issues concerning undue influence, lack of capacity, propriety estoppel and agricultural tax relief have been evident.

Practice head(s):

Clare Louise Love


Other key lawyers:

Mark Hutchinson-Lyons; Laura Brereton


Testimonials

‘Positive, proactive, approachable. Straightforward professional advice with a genuine caring attitude’

‘Clare Love always takes time to understand the client first, her people skills are excellent and gives Honest advice for the benefit of the client only.’

‘OSG has benefits from the diverse range of legal services offered by its very experienced team, including private client legal services which cover wills, probate, estate planning and LPAs. The private client team has a breadth of experience and skills.’

Work highlights


SAS Daniels LLP

A firm with offices in Stockport, Chesire, Macclesfield and Congleton, SAS Daniels LLP serves as a go-to for wills and trust planning for vulnerable and disabled people, possessing extensive Court of Protection experience, disputing local counsels over care funding, advising on capacity issues, and care home contracts. Department head Justine Clowes  has strong will and succession planning expertise, as well as experience acting on cases concerning mental capacity and elderly clients. Victoria Timothy is strong advising on agricultural estates, helping clients with the establishment of trusts and partnerships, in addition to advising non-UK domicile clients on tax system exposure and potential mitigation strategies. The ‘professional’ Helen Kelly is highly active on complex trusts work, while Genevieve Powrie has a specialist, niche practice advising on matters concerning elderly and vulnerable clients.

Practice head(s):

Justine Clowes


Other key lawyers:

Victoria Timothy; Helen Kelly; Genevieve Powrie


Testimonials

‘Helen Kelly has handled the estate administration for both my mother and recently my father. She’s always been pleasant, helpful and professional, and given good advice when needed.’

‘I appreciate Genevieve Powrie’s empathy and compassion. She is always very punctual in communication and understands how distressing the situation is. She brings a lot of humanity to the situation.’

‘This is a proactive and cohesive practice that does not adopt a silo approach to advising clients, but shares skills and best practices to enhance the overall outcomes for clients.’

Work highlights


Weightmans LLP

Possessing a broad national footprint and the Legalink network to supplement complex cross-border estates work, Weightmans LLP is geared to act on a diverse range of wills, trusts and probate matters. The firm is known for the trusted counsel it provides to clients in the corporate, sport and entertainment sectors pertaining estate and trust management, but also bolsters its full service offering through expertise in Court of Protection work, alternative investment vehicle structures, and establishing philanthropic endeavours. National and Manchester team head Richard Bate is a go-to for tax mitigation, wealth protection, and family trusts advice, and also competently acts for the interests of disabled and vulnerable individuals. Nina Sperring, who leads the Liverpool office and joined from FDR Law in February 2022, has a broad private client practice and is praised for her expertise in cross-border matters and innovative tax planning, while the ‘technical’ Sally Cook advises domiciles and non-domiciles on estate management, succession planning and tax mitigation. Lorraine Wilson is also active in the practice and has established strength in cross-border matters and the establishment of trusts.

Practice head(s):

Richard Bate


Other key lawyers:

Nina Sperring; Sally Cook; Lorraine Wilson


Testimonials

‘I have worked with Sally Cook, she consistently keeps me updated on the various jobs worked on, very well organised, provides me with well informed information – technical and general. Communication is essential and she conveys this information both professionally and in a user friendly manner.’

‘Weightmans has given me an exceptional blend of skills that I have found unique compared to the many practices that have provided me services over the years. They have given me a very tailored personal service, being extremely responsive to my many questions and requests, provided very good informed advice and then completed work in a very timely manner. This blend is very rare from my experience.’

‘Richard Bate has taken what to me is a complex subject and provided a very simple and defined framework to deal with the complexities of trust, probate and tax work. I have found that Richard responds immediately to requests and quickly puts in place a plan of action. I have full confidence in Richard as my legal advisor.’

‘I found the team very quick to pick up the issues and focus on the real issues and the deliverable. They returned calls and e-mails promptly and kept the probate office and HMRC on task which was no mean achievement at this time. They wrote in easy to understand English and did not make mountains out of molehills. I found the charges reasonable for coping with the bureaucracy involved and there was transparency in the fee process throughout.’

‘We primarily dealt with 2 individuals, Richard Bate and Lorraine Wilson. Both knew their job very well and showed real professionalism, a clear understanding of what we were trying to achieve and practical common sense coupled with a very sound knowledge of the law on how to get there. I would have no hesitation in recommending them for this type of work (will, probate and trust) both for planning and delivery.’

‘I dealt with Sally Cook who was extremely knowledgeable, helpful and provided an excellent service. She was easy to work with, dealt with any queries quickly and made me feel that nothing was too much trouble. She gave full and clear advice and dealt with matters promptly. She clearly has a good understanding of her subject.’

‘I have mainly dealt with the Weightmans personal tax, trusts and probate practice in Manchester (specifically Lorraine Wilson). I have always found the team to be very responsive, technically excellent and operate a problem solving approach to all matters. I have been very happy with the standard of work and service provided and I have no hesitation in referring my clients to the team (I am a Scottish solicitor) when they require specific advice on this particular area of English Law.’

‘I trust Lorraine Wilson’s technical knowledge implicitly. She is always very approachable and professional and quick to respond to correspondence. I value her commercial awareness in trying to find the most efficient and cost effective solution to any issue that I refer to her.’

Work highlights


Aaron & Partners LLP

Aaron & Partners LLP‘s offering in Cheshire makes the team uniquely placed to advise agricultural and rural clients on estate planning, succession and tax issues, as well as possessing a broader practice that encompasses the North-West and caters for high-net worth businesspeople and families. The department also has notable expertise administering foreign assets, handling Court of Protection cases, and establishing charitable foundations. The ‘absolutely professional team head Clive Pointon presides over these types of matters, in addition to advising on inheritance tax exposure and mitigation. James Wallace is an expert regarding the transfer of assets and navigating capital gains tax implications, while Rowena Ridgway‘s caseload includes estate and will planning as well as Court of Protection and deputyship matters. Paul Caslin provides ‘clear and concise advice’ to Trustees concerned with estate and trusts issues, and also acts as trusted counsel to mentally and physically handicapped individuals.

Practice head(s):

Clive Pointon


Other key lawyers:

James Wallace; Rowena Ridgway; Paul Caslin


Testimonials

‘Paul Caslin handled my case with utmost professionalism and care. His advice was excellent and most importantly he was aware of how sensitive some issues were and was conscious of our feelings and needs. I would highly recommend Paul and I’ll be forever grateful for the support he gave at such a dreadful time.’

‘I found Paul Caslin to be very approachable, helpful, plain speaking and very knowledgeable. I would recommend Paul to any future clients.’

‘I Worked with Paul Caslin to resolve a complicated IHT issue. He provided clear and concise advice and got the job done.’

‘I was very satisfied with the way the team dealt with me and external parties and the regular verbal and written deliverables. The relevant lawyers were usually available for discussions and advice and the overall process and relationship was efficient, personable and professional. The overall cost was in line with initial forecasts and was satisfactory.’

‘The two associates that I dealt with in Aarons were more professional in the way they interacted with me and the clarity of their advice and outputs. I found all parties to be pleasant to work with as individuals and I developed the view that more experienced support from partners was always available to the younger associates when required. 

‘Throughout all my dealings over the years I consider myself to have been very fortunate in having been advised by Mr Clive Pointon. He is absolutely professional but has the ability to make one feel at ease and able to explain the circumstances of the need to ask for his advice. His expertise has also been significant in my daughter’s provision for her handicapped child.’

‘I have dealt with this partnership for estate planning, wills etc over a period of nearly twenty years. When my daughter went to through a marriage separation and subsequently a divorce I had no hesitation in recommending Aaron and Partners to her. They dealt initially with a revision of her will and then another part of the practice dealt with her divorce.’

‘I have dealt almost entirely with Clive Pointon. He clearly is on top of his field and always up to date on the latest changes to estate planning, tax laws etc. His personality makes dealing with him a pleasure to the extent I regard him almost as a friend who is also my lawyer. He is always available either immediately or via a fast telephone response. He exudes trust.’

Work highlights


Forbes Solicitors

A national law firm with a significant Lancashire presence, Forbes Solicitors is geared to act on the full array of private wealth and estate management matters. The team have considerable experience establishing both traditional and alternative trust structures to mitigate tax consequences, and routinely act for trustees, high-net worth landowners and businesspeople. Although the department’s work portfolio contains many complex urban and agricultural UK estates, the firm competently handle cross-border issues, including directing family tracing in foreign jurisdictions, liasing with authorities abroad, handling estates and assets abroad, and managing the interests of multiple beneficiaries. Head of team and Preston-based Jane Burbidge is active in will and trust creation matters and has particular expertise in dealing with intestate estates. Victoria Motley competently oversees estates with a cross-border aspect, and has a strong understanding of business and property relief and establishing trusts for vulnerable or disabled individuals. Elizabeth Whitaker has a broad practice encompassing Lasting Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection work, as well as estate and succession planning.

Practice head(s):

Jane Burbidge


Other key lawyers:

Victoria Motley; Elizabeth Whitaker


Testimonials

‘They are just a lovely, caring team. They have a can-do attitude and no problem is too small or trivial.’

‘The firm always maintained clear communication with us.’

‘Very client focused, with the ability to work with other professionals exceptionally well.’

Work highlights


  • Advising on and drafted documentation to implement an Employee Ownership Trust to facilitate an exit strategy by the owner/manager of the business and to ensure continuity of the business for the future.

Glaisyers LLP

The team at Glaisyers Solicitors LLP have established experience advising on domestic and cross border mandates concerning will drafting, trust creation, and estate management. Inheritance tax mitigation and asset perseveration continues to be the cornerstone of the department’s matters, while team head Chris Burrows‘ expertise has been the main driver behind the practice’s growing activity in the establishment and administration of trusts and providing counsel to both trustees and beneficiaries. Burrows regularly works alongside Emma Green to provide an ‘outstanding service’, with the latter possessing a particular specialism in Court of Protection work, including aiding disabled individuals and removing incapacitated trustees. Charlotte Hardie, who also has experience in Court of Protection work, is active in high-net-worth estate planning as well as contentious matters.

Practice head(s):

Chris Burrows


Other key lawyers:

Emma Green; Charlotte Hardie


Testimonials

‘Emma Green and the team have been supportive and prompt when managing any requests and queries. Communication with them is excellent and allows me to perform my role to the best of my ability; Emma is approachable and has been fair in her response with all aspects of the financial decisions made for my client.’

‘Both Chris Burrows and Emma Green have been extremely helpful in providing advice tailored to my needs and desired outcomes.’

‘The staff were very considerate and supportive following the death of my father. Chris Burrows and Emma Green provided outstanding service and my family and I sincerely appreciate their kindness and support during an extremely difficult time.’

Work highlights


  • Advised in connection with the administration of a portfolio of over 2000 individual trusts on the insolvency of the trust corporation trustee.
  • Preparation of an English will for a significantly wealthy business owner with an international portfolio of assets spanning multiple jurisdictions.
  • Advising the executors of a multi million pound estate on the validity of the will and gifts to charities and individuals in several jurisdictions.

Gorvins Solicitors

Gorvins Solicitors advises on a broad range of wills, trusts and succession planning mandates, as well as undertaking Court of Protection work, such as acting as deputies and submitting applications. The firm has a specialist family business team which leverages expertise from its deep bench of private client lawyers to offer a full service including corporate and commercial, wills, trusts and probate, and also employment law counsel. Head of department Michael Smoult jointly heads the family business team and has extensive experience in matters concerning inheritance tax planning, will preparation, and protecting the assets of clients with disabled beneficiaries. Julie Burgess has expertise advising on complex estates, including agricultural property and foreign assets, as well as lifetime planning for disabled and vulnerable children. Almas Patankar is involved with inheritance tax planning and Court of Protection matters.

Practice head(s):

Michael Smoult


Other key lawyers:

Julie Burgess; Almas Patankar


Work highlights


Irwin Mitchell

Irwin Mitchell‘s private client lawyers leverage expertise from their colleagues in the corporate, conveyancing and real estate teams to comprehensively act on complex estate administration matters. The department excel at advising UK domiciles on how their wills may affect their foreign assets, such as companies and properties, as well as possessing particular expertise establishing a variety of trusts such as personal injury and disabled persons interest trusts. The ‘incredibly knowledgeable’ Christine Thornley is an experienced name in succession planning and wealth protection work and has bolstered her capacity to provide a full service by developing a niche specialism delivering trust, will and Lasting Powers of Attorney advice to vulnerable and disabled children. Fiona Bushell counsels high-net-worth clients on estate administration and succession planning issues, while Danielle Burgess, who joined from Linda Myers in October 2022, is active on a wide range of practice matters.

Practice head(s):

Paula James


Other key lawyers:

Christine Thornley; Fiona Bushell; Danielle Burgess


Testimonials

‘I wanted a solicitor that was approachable, professional, an expert in the probate field, easy to talk to, and able to explain in simple terms legal terminology. I wanted someone who I felt comfortable with and who I could trust. I found all of the above and more in Christine Thornley, a partner at Irwin Mitchell who heads up the Tax Trusts and Estate team in the firm’s Manchester office.’

‘From the moment I met Christine Thornley I was impressed by her warmth and her expert knowledge. She is a total professional yet extremely relatable. She explained some complex issues in a way that made it easier for me to understand and provided me with solutions to problems that I had been battling with for years. We corresponded by email regularly and she always answered my queries promptly, efficiently and effectively.’

‘The team has a good spread of experience. Additionally, the team is very closely linked with other parts of the firm. This enables a good flow of business to be introduced firm to firm.’

‘Christine Thornley is a huge credit to IM. She’s incredibly knowledgeable and experienced and is able to tailor the service dependent on the individual client needs. She’s incredibly empathetic which is also so important for many of our clients. In addition, she is very commercially aware which enables a mutual flow of work introductions.’

Work highlights


MLP Law LLP

A firm operating out of offices in Altrincham and Lymm, MLP Law LLP focuses on business wills and succession planning, preparing Lasting Powers of Attorney, incorporating business property trusts, and reviewing estate planning needs to ensure tax exposure is minimal. Jane Hunter has a broad practice and client portfolio though possesses a particular specialism advising business and agricultural property owners on wills and asset management affairs. The ‘incredibly meticulousDoris Raggatt handles complex estates and has demonstrable experience acting on Court of Protection proceedings and applications. Samantha Kennedy is also highly active in the practice, advising high-net worth individuals on will and tax planning, as well as acting on the behalf of elderly, vulnerable and disabled clients.

Practice head(s):

Jane Hunter


Other key lawyers:

Doris Raggatt; Samantha Kennedy


Testimonials

‘The private client team are brilliant. They have a human touch with everything and remember every client is an individual no matter if they are worth £10 or £10M. Jane looks after a number of my clients and each and every one of them is delighted with her manner and professionalism during their experience.’

‘You don’t just get a faceless email; you have a personal call and explanation ahead of the advice. Jane Hunter has been brilliant at handling family matters and discussions from the outset with my clients, navigating complex situations with ease and using her emotional intelligence to ensure it is done to the utmost professionalism.’

‘Strong team headed by Jane Hunter supported by the incredibly able Doris Raggatt. The team take the time to really understand a client, the wider family and their ultimate wishes. Jane has dealt with a number of highly complex instances for my clients and in doing so manages to put information across in an easy-to-understand manner.’

Work highlights


  • Following the initial estate planning advice, the team has advised the executors on the administration of an estate. This includes multiple business entities and investments.
  • Instructed to consider the various options in connection with an estate planning matter. Provided the desired outcome in respect of value for shareholding in the company and to provide cash for the benefit of their estate and families.

Price Slater Gawne

A practice which remains a firm choice for HNW UK and non-UK domiciles seeking private wealth legal advice, Price Slater Gawne operates out of Altrincham and is headed by Laura Bywater. The team is ‘technically very strong’ and has expertise in will drafting, succession planning through trusts, and offering tax mitigation strategies. Bywater is a specialist regarding inheritance tax and capital gains tax, and completely advises clients living abroad with UK assets on whether they fulfill non-resident requirements and on potential complications from creating foreign wills. Gareth Williams handles the full range of wealth protection and succession planning issues, as well as acting for vulnerable individuals as a Court of Protection financial deputy.

Practice head(s):

Laura Bywater


Other key lawyers:

Gareth Williams


Testimonials

‘Very personable and friendly, technically very strong and very ethical and client focused.’

‘Gareth Williams, can give advice to HNW individuals with complex planning needs and also acts as a professional deputy for individuals who have been awarded significant personal injury and medical negligence claims, technically very strong and has a great understanding of the needs of the client and how to provide the appropriate solutions and service.’

Work highlights


Private Client Solicitors

Boutique firm Private Client Solicitors act exclusively on private wealth matters, include estate administration, tax planning, and the establishment of trusts. The group regularly advise clients with assets in multiple jurisdictions and have the understanding of foreign tax and legal systems to highlight the implications of drafting wills and transferring property. Exemplifying this in particular is practice head Tasnim Khalid, who specialises on Shariah Law and routinely works alongside high net worth individuals with ties to the UK, Middle East and South America on estate planning and wealth protection issues. Paul Gotch, who has a client roster containing sport and media personalities, focuses his practice on structuring wills and trusts to mitigate tax, while Nicola Walker acts on a broad range of matters including Court of Protection and Lasting Powers of Attorney applications.

Practice head(s):

Tasnim Khalid


Other key lawyers:

Paul Gotch; Nicola Walker


Testimonials

‘This is a new team but made up of leading advisers from local firms. The business model of this practice is unique allowing their lawyers flexibility and autonomy over their work. It is also the only boutique Private Client practice in Manchester. Tasnim Khalid is the founder and powerhouse behind this business and is an exceptional businesswoman and adviser. She has very strong client skills and connections and I have no doubt will make a success of this business.

‘Highly personable and treat all clients as individuals not simply numbers on a spreadsheet. Paul Gotch is very professional and knowledgeable. His attentive approach helps clients feel at ease whilst they remain confident of receiving the highest quality legal advice.’

‘Very personable knowledgeable staff.’

Slater Heelis

Slater Heelis handles a steady stream of Court of Protection matters, with head of private client work Chris Partington principally noted for his expertise acting as a financial deputy for individuals who been victims of clinical negligence. Georgina Garner regularly works alongside her colleague in these deputyship proceedings and is especially well regarded for her adeptness at mental capacity cases. Alex Sealy spearheads the team’s private wealth offering, with far-reaching expertise that focuses on complex estates involving foreign assets. The group is geared to advise clients on domicile status and the consequential tax implications, as well as possessing a strong understanding of Sharia Law. In addition, the firm has a strong proficiency at will drafting and trust creation.

Practice head(s):

Chris Partington; Alex Sealy; Georgina Garner


Work highlights


Temple Heelis

A firm with history dating back to 1822, Temple Heelis‘s deep-rooted connection to the South Lakeland community and market has allowed the team to grow an extensive client roster of high-net-worth families and individuals with multiple dwellings, holiday homes and distinctive real estate looking for wealth protection and succession planning advice. The department regularly act on tax exposure and mitigation queries, trust creation and restructuring matters and estate administration work, as well possessing experience regarding Court of Protection proceedings and applications. A go-to for tax advice, especially inheritance and Stamp Duty Land Tax, group head and Kendal-based Robert Kornas has a broad private client practice that includes acting as an official deputy for incapacitated clients, preparing Statutory Wills, and establishing trusts. Tax and estate planning are the cornerstone of managing partner James Hamilton‘s extensive legal career, who operates from all three of the firm’s regional offices, while Kendal-based Laura Priestley has particular expertise in Court of Protection work, alternative investment structures such as family investment companies, and probate matters.

Practice head(s):

Robert Kornas; James Hamilton


Other key lawyers:

Laura Priestley


Testimonials

‘Beyond his legal knowledge, experience and competence, whether it be (in our case) setting up wills, registering Power of Attorney, navigating complex trusts, or running meetings with Financial Advisers, Jamie Hamilton brings a thoughtful compassion, kindness and empathy to his relations. This humanity, encasing exceptional legal rigor, competence and efficiency, is not only commendable but sets him apart.’

‘I have worked with this firm for a few years now and they provide an exceptional client experience. Meticulous attention to detail, quick to respond to queries and available as much as needed. They appear keen to adapt, respond positively and learn from their mistakes.’

‘I have worked with Robert Kornas and found him to be a true professional. He is keen to understand and support our business and personal circumstances, is adaptive to our requirements and takes the necessary time to listen and support.’

Work highlights