Biography
I am the lead Partner for the Will, Trust and Estate Disputes team in London.
I specialise in private client disputes and litigation, specifically those concerning trust, estate and succession disputes. My clients include private individuals, trustees, executors, administrators, protectors and beneficiaries.
I deal with all manner of disputes both in the UK and internationally, including claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, will disputes, and claims in respect of beneficial interests in property.
I have been consistently recommended in The Legal 500 for this work and am listed in the Legal Week Private Client Global Elite Directory.
Notable Cases
Earl Bathurst (Deceased) [2018] EWHC 21 (Ch); [2017] WTLR 1207
A dispute concerning the estate of the 8th Earl Bathurst and the ability of his widow to use and enjoy valuable chattels.
A.H. Baldwin and Sons Ltd & Others v. His Excellency Sheik Saud Bin Mohammed Bin Al-Thani [2012] EWHC 3156 (QB)
Acting for an auction house and obtaining a worldwide asset-freezing injunction against Sheikh Saud Al-Thani, a member of the royal family of Qatar and one of the world's most prolific collectors of art and antiquities.
Wilson v. Dodd [2012] EWHC 3727 (Ch)
Obtaining judgment for an American investor who was induced to invest in an English business due to a fraudulent misrepresentation.
Singellos v Singellos [2010] EWHC 2353 (Ch) (The Times, 22 December 2010)
A multi-jurisdictional contentious probate dispute which extended a 19th Century legal principle relating to the necessary mental capacity to execute a will (Parker v Felgate) to documents executed to effect lifetime transfers to offshore companies.
Walbrook Trustees (Jersey) Ltd & Ors v Fattal [2007] EWHC 2808 [2008] EWHC 991 [2008] EWHC Civ 427
Strike out of a claim against professional trustees for abuse of process.
Testimonials
"Experienced and very impressive lawyer, client focused and tactically astute" - Legal 500, 2018/19
Claire-Marie has "a calm manner that helps to diffuse the most difficult of situations" - Legal 500, 2016
"Claire-Marie is a specialist in family trusts. She is 'a very safe pair of hands' and provides 'useful input on strategic decisions'." – Legal 500, 2014
What Inspired You To Get Into Law?
I was drawn to law by a desire to help others.
What Is The Most Rewarding Aspect Of Your Role?
Developing a strong personal bond with my clients and supporting them through the litigation process.
What Do You Do Away From The Office?
I enjoy yoga, gardening, sport and driving fast cars.
