Biography
I advise on every aspect of succession law, such as trusts and wills, and all associated taxes. I have a particular focus in planning for inheritance tax, capital gains tax, and all other taxes related to trusts and estates.
Many of my clients are family business owners: I guide them through structures that make the maximum use of available tax reliefs. I help many of them in balancing inheritances between those who are part of the family business and those who are not.
I give support to colleagues on unusual, novel and complex tax and legal issues in my field. Teaching is in my genes and has helped me convey my enthusiasm and some of my knowledge in lectures and workshops for more than 20 years. I take particular pleasure in helping younger colleagues develop their expertise.
What Inspired You To Get Into Law?
Because law affects everyone’s daily life, I wanted to understand how it works and use my knowledge to help others. In my teens I was a keen reader of both detective stories and Victorian novels, many of which involve wills. Becoming a professional adviser on wills seemed a natural step.
What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Role?
Trust and succession law has centuries of history behind it, while the related tax rules are constantly changing. This satisfies both my interest in history and the wish constantly to grapple with new challenges.
Most fascinating of all are the people I meet, helping them find a way through a complex web of issues in order to arrive at the solution that is right for them and their families.
What Do You Do Away From The Office?
I enjoy singing in a number of choirs and have a passion for all kinds of classical music. I am an enthusiastic walker, particularly in the English Lake District. I am also an avid reader of fiction and history.
Testimonials
"'Stands head and shoulders above any other tax lawyer" - Legal 500 2020
"Has a wealth of experience and can immediately grasp the issue at hand and provides clear and practical advice" - Legal 500 2018/19
Publications
- Joint article with John Bunker in Solicitor's Journal on 5th April 2016 on the 2016 budget.
- Other articles in Solicitor's Journal, Taxation and online at taxationweb.co.uk
