Clarke Willmott LLP is distinguished by its ability to handle matters across the full life cycle of private wealth disputes, supported by a strong Court of Protection offering. The team is particularly noted for its expertise in disputes involving landed estates and agricultural assets, and the firm’s in-house trust corporation further enhances its ability to deliver a fully integrated service. Practice co-chair Bonita Walters has particular expertise in high-value succession disputes and trust claims. Fellow co-chair Esther Woolford stands out for her Supreme Court experience in Guest v Guest, a leading authority in proprietary estoppel.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
- It is always a pleasure to work with the Contentious Trusts and Probate team at Clarke Willmott. They combine great breadth and depth of expertise with being really amiable.
- Both Emma Ironside and Ellie Bond are always wonderful to work with, including on both a recent proprietary estoppel case and a recent 1975 Act claim. They are extremely diligent, thoughtful, and brilliant with clients.
- Offers great value for a regional firm. Handles complex and challenging private client work effectively.
- An excellent trust team with depth of knowledge and practical experience in contentious trust disputes.
- Bonita Walters, Esther Woolford, and Anne Minihane are all excellent partners with in-depth knowledge and experience in trust matters. They make the right tactical decisions and work tirelessly for their clients. Standout associates are Emily Jenkins, Rosie Brain, Ellie Bond, Jodie Coles, and Robert Mullen.
- Esther Woolford excels in navigating and managing complex legal and litigation issues with clarity. Robert Mullen is an excellent solicitor, a rising star, and a standout partner with a strong command of the law and excellent litigation management skills.
Work highlights
Acting for a client in a High Court claim to pronounce her late mother’s will in solemn form and to defend a claim against the estate that the will was invalid due to lack of capacity and undue influence.
Acting for a client to assist Ebery Williams in the Court of Appeal case of Cobden v Cobden [2025] EWCA Civ 1612.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Bonita Walters; Esther Woolford
Other key lawyers
Robert Mullen; Emma Ironside