Biography
Having spent over 11 years in the legal sector, mostly within litigation, I’ve developed a range of experience in commercial and civil litigation matters, developing a particular specialism in wills, trust and estate disputes.
Within the wills, trust and estate disputes department at Irwin Mitchell I help clients to resolve a range of issues. This includes disputing the validity of a will, whether there is a concern that the Deceased lacked mental capacity, or they were put under undue influence to change their will. I also resolve issues where the Will was not signed or witnessed properly.
I also help clients with claims under the Inheritance (provision for family and dependents) Act 1975 where family members and children may have been inadequately provided for, as well as:
- Claims involving disputes between executors
- Removal of executors
- Claims involving financial abuse of the Deceased
- Disputes between unmarried couples over jointly owned property, and many other issues.
Understanding the importance of my client’s needs and requirements is an important aspect to reach a swift and desirable resolution to their problems.
I strive to understand you, the problem and what outcome you hope to achieve so that I can advise you practically and commercially based on your goals. I work to help you to achieve the best result possible, whether it be through dispute resolution or whether court proceedings are required.
What inspired you to get into law?
I wanted to get into law from a young age, initially completing the Bar Vocational Course to qualify as a Barrister. I started my first role in litigation at a law firm which I loved and decided to re-train as a solicitor.
During my career I then developed a specific interest in wills and estate disputes and went on to specialise within that area.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
By far the most rewarding aspect is helping people to reach that resolution and seeing the relief that it brings.
In this area of law our clients are usually going through an extremely stressful and emotional time as it is, without the added stress of litigation. This kind of dispute is very personal and usually brings with it a breakdown in relationships between family members or a further deterioration of the relationship.
By seeking advice from us at an early stage, a lot of stress and worry can be saved and sometimes those relationships can be rescued or start to heal. We can engage in forms of alternative dispute resolution to try to resolve the dispute, without the client and the other party having to go through lengthy and stressful court proceedings.
Reaching a solution for my clients that they are happy with and which enables them to move forward and seeing that weight lift is why I do the role.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
Irwin Mitchell is forward thinking and acknowledges and rewards their employees whilst pushing for a good work life balance. The people are amazing and really do embrace the ’human touch’ approach.
What do you do away from the office?
Outside of work I enjoy walking my 4 dogs and visiting new places to walk and hike. I keep fit by attending an outdoor military style bootcamp and regularly take part in outdoor activities and events such as mud runs and surfing. I also enjoy completing challenges for charity including hiking and fitness challenges.
