Tell us about yourself
I qualified as a solicitor in 1985 after studying law at Cambridge University and training with a City firm, where I stayed for a couple of years after qualifying. I then worked for law firms in Bournemouth and Basingstoke whilst bringing up my family and I joined Bookers & Bolton in 2009. Whilst I am a relatively new member of the team, I do have over 20 years practical experience in the law.
In which areas of law do you specialise?
I am a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and the Law Society Probate Section. My specialist area of law is Wills and Estate Planning and within this area I advise on:
- Wills and Trusts
- Tax and Estate Planning
- Probate and Administration of estates
- Powers of Attorney
- Court of Protection matters
- Issues specific to elderly clients including care planning
What do you offer clients of Bookers & Bolton?
I aim to explain what can be quite complicated concepts in an understandable way so that clients can make informed decisions, but being a good solicitor doesn’t just require technical expertise. It is important to listen to what the client is telling you and, sometimes, to be able to “read between the lines”. I don’t think it is possible to be a good private client lawyer without taking the time to understand the client’s life and relationships.
I want our clients to feel safe in our hands and well looked after. I am always willing to see clients in their own homes, if that is easier, or in hospital if required.
To help clients get to know you a bit better, could you tell us about yourself?
What are your hobbies?
Gardening and watercolour painting.
What is your favourite food?
Anything that my mother cooks, plus chocolate (if that counts?).
What is your favourite film or TV programme?
Pride and Prejudice (the Joe Wright film).
What are you most likely to do on a day off?
Walk the river path in Winchester and visit a tea shop.
What are your personal ambitions?
To be a good parent and to own a house by the sea.
