Biography
I'm a solicitor working in the Will, Trust and Estate Disputes Team in Chichester.
I have experience in assisting both bringing and defending Will validity challenges for:
- Lack of testamentary capacity
- Undue influence
- Fraudulent calumny
- Knowledge and approval.
I also have experience in claims and defending Inheritance Act claims. This is where someone brings a claim as they don't believe that they've received reasonable financial provision under the deceased’s Will. I also have experience in working on Executor dispute cases.
I'm particularly interested in financial abuse cases. Financial abuse can arise when someone has lost the capacity to deal with their Property and Financial Affairs and they have appointed an attorney, under a Lasting Power of Attorney or Enduring Power of Attorney. If the attorney abuses their power and takes advantage of their position, a challenge can be made to the attorney’s decisions and they can be asked to account to the estate for any money they have taken.
What inspired you to get into law?
From a young age, I've always wanted to be in a profession where I can support people in difficult situations and solve problems.
I did work experience at many law firms and also at the Houses of Parliament. Through this experience, I quickly decided that I would be able to help more people as a lawyer than as a politician. I went on to study Law at University, and confirmed my passion for the law while there.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
The most rewarding aspect of my role is definitely helping people who may not have anyone else to help them. It's a brilliant feeling when you can resolve a case and you've helped achieve a successful result that will change your client’s life for the better.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
I believe that working at Irwin Mitchell gives me access to a wide range of knowledge and expertise in this area that I wouldn't be able to access at other firms. I feel that I'm constantly learning new skills and I love the support I get from my team.
What do you do away from the office?
I'm a keen netball and badminton player and I play in competitive leagues outside of work. I also love travelling and experiencing different cultures. I'm currently on track to complete the “30 by 30” challenge (to visit 30 countries by the age of 30 and no the UK does not count as four countries for this).
I also enjoy climbing mountains and coastal walks.
Testimonials
"Amazing service from beginning to end. Made each part of the journey easy and helped me with understanding why thing were being done. Bethan was so empathetic and understanding throughout. Would highly recommend." - 5* Trustpilot review
"I was unfortunate enough to require the services of solicitors due to a will and probate issue, but extremely fortunate that I was recommended to contact, and chose Irwin Mitchell. I was supported by an excellent team led by Margaret Windram, and assisted by Bethan Smith, Edward Lord, Beccy Beattie and Cathy Quinn. Despite the grief and distress I went through, I felt their support throughout." 5* Trustpilot review
"The Solicitor who helped me was Bethan Smith in Chichester. She was very sympathetic to my cause and was extremely efficient in the way she handled this distressing situation and in very little time this matter has now been concluded. I can't thank her enough." - 5* Trustpilot review
