The Cleaver Fulton Rankin private client department is well-equipped to handle estate administration matters covering inheritance, corporate and property law. Practice head Michael Graham is a go-to for high-net-worth individuals and has significant expertise in trust administration. Graham is also noted for his experience dealing with vulnerable adults. Timothy Rankin is a key client contact for both The Esme Mitchell Trust and The Blackburn Trust and regularly advises individual clients with their inheritance tax planning. Brid McColgan, who was promoted to director in November 2024, specialises in the property aspects of complex estate administration mandates.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • ‘I use CFR for private client work and have always found them to be experts in their field. They respond extremely quickly to any queries and clients and have a very experienced private client team. ’

  • ‘The individuals I deal with on a regular basis are Tim Rankin, Michael Graham and Melissa Ruddock. All are very pleasant to deal with and very helpful.’

  • ‘The partners have a deep understanding of trusts, probate and estates administration, and are proactive in delivering advice in these areas.’

  • ‘Michael Graham has a deep understanding of trusts, tax, and probate matters. The support team in CFR work effectively and efficiently, and lines of communication are strong.’

Key clients

  • The Esme Mitchell Trust
  • The Blackburn Trust

Work highlights

Administered the Esme Mitchell Trust with investments worth over £9,300,000.00.
Administered the Blackburn Trust with investments worth over £320,000.00.

Lawyers

Hall of Fame

The lawyers at the very top of the profession, widely known and respected by peers and clients for their longstanding involvement in market-leading work.

Leading partners

The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.

Next Generation Partners

Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.

Brid McColgan

Practice head

Michael Graham

Other key lawyers

Brid McColgan; Timothy Rankin; Melissa Ruddock