Jointly headed by Guildford-based Oliver Auld and Edward Birrell, Charles Russell Speechlys LLP is highly experienced in High Court and Court of Protection litigation. Auld is vastly knowledgeable of landed estates and probate disputes, while Birrell is noted for his capability in trusts disputes. Duncan Elson often acts as an independent administrator, Rebecca Piper is skilled at will challenges, and Katelyn Silver handles applications for the appointment or removal of personal representatives. Kate Dansie and Isabella Eacott are other key team members.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- This is a really good team. They are extremely knowledgeable, with a detailed understanding of both law and procedure in the field. Their case management is excellent and they build a great relationship with their clients. The team is very busy, and deservedly so.
- The main positive was that the team really seemed to care about our issues above and beyond what I would expect from professional advisors. They raised and resolved several issues beyond the core scope of what we asked them to do.
- Tamasin Perkins is highly regarded for her warm, approachable manner and exceptional client care. She combines strong technical expertise with empathy, putting clients at ease in often sensitive situations. Her clear communication and thoughtful, measured advice ensure clients feel supported, understood, and confident throughout every stage of the process. Rebecca Piper stands out as one of my favorite solicitors to work with, combining sharp legal insight with outstanding client care. She is highly organized, decisive, and consistently attentive to client needs. Her practical, solutions-focused approach and calm professionalism inspire confidence, ensuring clients feel reassured, well-advised, and in safe hands throughout.
- The team is widely recognized for its exceptional technical expertise, commercial awareness, and unwavering client focus. The team combines deep knowledge of complex private wealth structures with a pragmatic approach, delivering clear, strategic advice tailored to high-net-worth individuals and families. Clients particularly value the team’s responsiveness, discretion, and ability to navigate sensitive, multi-jurisdictional matters with confidence. Strength in depth, collaborative working, and a commitment to excellence underpin every instruction, ensuring consistently high-quality outcomes. The team’s reputation for innovation and meticulous attention to detail firmly positions it as a leader in the field of trusts and probate.
- They're excellent. Probably the strongest selection of partners in the industry.
- Ziva Robertson is incredibly experienced across an array of jurisdictions and is extremely good at the team management aspect of multi-national litigation. Ed Birrell is experienced beyond his years, excellent at both the technical aspects and also client management.
Key clients
- The Public Trustee of the Bailiwick of Guernsey
Work highlights
Represented the Public Trustee of the Bailiwick of Guernsey in relation to losses to 5 Guernsey pension schemes in numerous proceedings dealing with a complex multi-jurisdictional asset base.
Represented the son of a sports personality in relation to a £20m estate, which is subject to multiple disputes including a will validity claim and potential professional negligence.
Represented various trustees on a high-profile trustee removal application involving a £100 million landed estate.
Lawyers
Hall of Fame
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Leading partners
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Next generation Partners
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Leading associates
Leading associates with regular involvement in their team's key work, and recognition from peers or clients as being ones to watch.
Practice head
Oliver Auld; Edward Birrell
Other key lawyers
Duncan Elson; Rebecca Piper; Katelyn Silver; Kate Dansie; Isabella Eacott