Biography
I’m an Associate Solicitor in the estate planning team in our Chichester office. I advise clients on all aspects of their estate planning, including: wills, trusts, asset protection, powers of attorney, statutory will and Court of Protection applications. I also assist clients with estate administration and post-death tax planning.
I have a particular interest in advising our more elderly and vulnerable clients, including those with fluctuating capacity and those clients who’re looking to provide for vulnerable beneficiaries. I help my clients prepare for the future to provide them with peace of mind. When advising clients I use a holistic approach, working with their other advisors including their accountants and financial advisors.
I’m a Dementia Friend. I’m a member of the Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners (STEP) and have also passed the STEP advanced certificate in advising vulnerable clients. I am a member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
The wealth of experience my colleagues have is unrivalled. We always strive to achieve the best for our clients
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
I pursued a career in estate planning as there is a lot of client contact. I like meeting clients from different backgrounds and bringing together an estate plan for their future. I like breaking down my technical knowledge for the client and applying it to their specific situation.
What inspired you to get into law?
My history teacher suggested to me that I should pursue a career in law. He reasoned this was the right career choice for me as I presented an argument clearly and had a strong sense of achieving a just and fair outcome. He also thought the law would satisfy my quest for knowledge as it’s forever changing.
What do you do away from the office?
Outside of the office, I enjoy being with family and friends, running around after my nephews and niece. A lot of my spare time is spent at the theatre and attending concerts.
Publications
Nicola Hawkins's publications and insights
Recent Podcasts
Testimonials
"Nicola Hawkins, the solicitor who handled the rewriting of my Will, was extremely helpful with background information and legal advice that allowed me to make appropriate decisions on the updating of my Will. Family considerations played a large part in my deliberations and between January and April this year her patience with my frequent "what if ?" questions was very impressive and I felt throughout the whole process that she was protecting my best interests. This is not my first experience of working with Nicola and I have never felt less than absolutely satisfied with the service I have received from her, or, indeed, from other executives at the Chichester branch of Irwin Mitchell." - 5* Trust Pilot Review
“The very best. I have used Irwin Mitchell for a number of legal services and have found them to be excellent. Most recently, I commissioned Nicola Hawkins to arrange my Will and her expertise, professionalism and endless patience made the experience seamless. I will certainly be using Irwin Mitchell for all of my future legal requirements as all my dealings thus far have been flawless.” - 5* Trustpilot review
"My wife had to go into a care home last year, so I needed to change my will to protect my assets for the future and to change from joint tenancy to tenants in common. My solicitor was Nicola Hawkins and she was very professional and patient in explaining everything to me. She gave me first class advice and helped me understand what I needed. I have no hesitation in recommending Nicola or Irwin Mitchell and their advice was good with my interest at heart." - 5* Trustpilot review
“It would be our absolute pleasure to give you 5 gold stars and sing your praises to anyone who cares to listen. Many thanks again for all that you have done and continue to do.” - Mrs L, client
