Aaron & Partners LLP’s contentious trusts and probate group exhibit ‘first-class knowledge of the law within the sector’ and is increasingly trusted by charity clients, while continuing to assist individuals with cross-border estates and agricultural assets on a range of disputes and tax-related issues. James Wallace leads the team and is well versed in a range of will challenges, trusts and estate disputes, propriety estoppel claims and Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act cases. Further key practitioners include Vlad Macdonald-Munteanu, who was made partner in August 2024, and has extensive experience in executorship disputes, and Danielle Blaylock, who joined the team in October 2024 from Jackson Lees Group and handles complex probate disputes involving lack of testamentary capacity. Rebecca Beaman and Caroline Scott are further key names.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘James Wallace - exceptional breadth of knowledge and understanding of client needs.’
‘I have been working with the team for nearly 2 years and they continue to work in my best interests. They have been proactive and introduced other colleagues where relevant to assist in the legalities. The team are motivated and go the extra mile when needed.’
‘James Wallace has been consistent and maintained a professional approach when dealing with the other solicitor. He has offered alternative strategies and appropriate insights and I have come to trust his judgement. Caroline Scott is a good team player and consistent with timely responses and follow ups.’
‘Caroline Scott devoted whole days to ensuring the matter was dealt with in a timely and professional manner. She was sympathetic yet knowledgeable and knew how to apply appropriate pressure in order to obtain the required response.’
‘The team exhibit a first-class knowledge of the law within the sector. The team has good depth - partners through to assistant solicitors (and trainees) - and every aspect of communication (email, telephone, face-to-face) has been excellent. There appears to be a fierce determination to understand the client's requirements, and to deliver the outcomes.’
‘Rebecca Beaman has been the principal point of contact and is clearly a rising star in the sector. She listens to ensure she has a full understanding of the issues and what constitutes a 'win'. Her communication skills are excellent, and she gets to the crux of the matter. James Wallace's knowledge of the law is exceptional, and he is always motivated to think through all aspects of a case, including commercial common sense, to find smart solutions.’
Work highlights
Successfully resolving an executor dispute in relation to a multimillion pound estate with overseas assets and now defending 1975 Act claims by various family members on behalf of the spouse of the deceased.
Instructed by a national charity to assist them with legacy issues including a proposal to increase a legacy to a disappointed beneficiary and advice around the ability of a charity to make use of a trust fund.
Representing a client in respect of a family dispute around the family company and the parents’ wills. Proceedings are issued in the court of protection and advice includes removal of directors, proprietary estoppel and anticipated will challenges.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
James Wallace
Other key lawyers
Vlad Macdonald-Munteanu; Danielle Blaylock; Rebecca Beaman; Caroline Scott