Surrey Lawyer July 2026

SLS LEGAL AWARDS 2026FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

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ACCOUNTS DIRECTOR

Joanne Casey

SALES MANAGER

Catherine McCarthy

STUDIO MANAGER

John Barry

MEDIA No.

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July 2026 © The Surrey Law Society Benham Publishing Ltd.

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The Surrey Law Society welcomes all persons eligible for membership regardless of sex, race, religion, age or sexual orientation.

All views expressed in this publication are the views of the individual writers and not the society unless specifically stated to be otherwise. All statements as to the law are for discussion between members and should not be relied upon as an accurate statement of the law, are of a general nature and do not constitute advice in any particular case or circumstance.

Members of the public should not seek to rely on anything published in this magazine in court but seek qualified Legal Advice.

COVER INFORMATION

SLS Legal Awards 2026 Finalists Announced.

11th October 2026 (For OCTOBER 2026)

Advertising

Anyone wishing to advertise in Surrey Lawyer please contact Catherine McCarthy before the copy deadline. 0151 236 4141 catherine@benhampublishing.com

Editorial

Anyone wishing to submit editorial for publication in The Surrey Lawyer please contact Helen Opie before the copy deadline. 0333 577 3830 helen.opie@surreylawsociety.org.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8731473

KEY OFFICERS

President

JAMES SCOZZI

Elite Law Solicitors, 1 Fetter Lane, London EC4A 1BR

DX: 14 London Chancery Lane

Tel: 020 3440 5506 Fax: 01923 219416

Email: jscozzi@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk

Vice President

KIM WINTLE

Blackfords LLP, Cleary Court, 169 Church Street East, Woking GU21 6HJ Tel: 03330 150150

Email: kim.wintle@blackfords.com

Honorary Secretary

KIERAN BOWE

Russell-Cooke Solicitors, Bishops Palace House, Kingston Bridge, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, KT1 1QN DX 31546 Kingston upon Thames Tel: 020 8541 2041 Fax: 020 8541 2009

Email: kieran.bowe@russell-cooke.co.uk

Hon. Treasurer

CLAUDENE HOWELL

Bellwether Solicitors, 454-456 London Road, Cheam, Sutton SM3 8JB T: 020 3621 0111 E: claudene@bellwethersolicitors.com

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Immediate Past President

DAWN LAWSON

Nichols Marcy Dawson LLP, Portman House, Colby Rd, Walton-on-Thames KT12 2RN Tel: 01932 219500. Email: d.lawson@nmd-law.com

NICK BALL

TWM Solicitors LLP, 65 Woodbridge Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4RD Tel: 01483 752700

Email: Nick.Ball@twmsolicitors.com

MADELEINE BERESFORD

TWM Solicitors LLP, 65 Woodbridge Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4RD Tel: 01483 752742

Email: madeleine.beresford@twmsolicitors.com

CARINA BRITS

Elite Law Solicitors, St James House, 9-15 St James Road, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 4QH

Tel: 020 3376 5861

Email: cbrits@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk

MARALYN HUTCHINSON

Kagan Moss & Co, 22 The Causeway, Teddington TW11 0HF

Tel: 020 8977 6633 Fax: 020 8977 0183

Email: maralyn.hutchinson@kaganmoss.co.uk

EMA BRYN JONES

Peacock & Co Solicitors, Park Place House, 24 Church Street, Epsom, KT17 4QB

Tel: 02080350370

Email: ema.jones@peacock-law.co.uk

DEV JUMMOODOO

Rosewood Solicitors, Export House, 5 Henry Plaza, Victoria Way, Woking Surrey GU21 6QX

Tel: 01483 901414

Email: dev.jummoodoo@rosewood-solicitors.com

HAYLEY LALSING

Charles Russell Speechlys, One London Square, Cross Lanes, Guildford GU1 1UN

Tel: 01483 252536

Email: hayley.lalsing@crsblaw.com

ALASTAIR LOGAN OBE

Pound House, Skiff Lane, Wisborough Green, West Sussex RH14 DAG

Email: alastairdwlogan@btinternet.com

EMMA PATEL

Rosewood Solicitors, Export House, 5 Henry Plaza, Victoria Way, Woking, Surrey GU21 6QX

Tel: 01483 901414

Email: emma.patel@rosewood-solicitors.com

RACHEL PHILIP

S. Abraham Solicitors, 290A Ewell Road, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 7AQ

Tel: 020 8390 0044

Email: conveyancing@sabrahamsolicitors.co.uk

RAJ SAMBI

TWM Solicitors LLP, 65 Woodbridge Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4RD

Tel: 01483 752700

Email: Raj.Sambi@TWMSolicitors.com

SUZANNE WALKER

Nichols Marcy Dawson LLP, Portman House, Colby Rd, Walton-on-Thames KT12 2RN

Tel: 01932 219500; Email: s.walker@nmd-law.com

LAW SOCIETY COUNCIL MEMBER

SUSHILA ABRAHAM

S Abraham Solicitors 290A Ewell Road, Surbiton KT6 7AQ

Tel: 020 8390 0044

Email: office@sabrahamsolicitors.co.uk

Chief Executive & Magazine Editor

HELEN OPIE

Surrey Law Society, c/o Russell-Cooke LLP, Riverview House, 20 Old Bridge Street, Kingston KT1 4BU

Web: www.surreylawsociety.org.uk

Tel: 0333 577 3830

Email: helen.opie@surreylawsociety.org.uk

SUB-COMMITTEES

CONVEYANCING & LAND LAW

Rachel Philip

Carina Brits

Maralyn Hutchinson

Ema Jones

Martin Whitehorn

EMPLOYMENT LAW

Nick Hawkins

Ashley Burrow

Jodie Care

Tariq Phillips

Hollie Ryan

FINANCE

Claudene Howell

Nick Ball

Maddie Beresford

Kieran Bowe

Helen Opie

PRIVATE CLIENT

Kieran Bowe

Maddie Beresford

Jess Buttaci

QUO VADIS

Claudene Howell

Nick Ball

Maddie Beresford

Kieran Bowe

James Scozzi

Helen Opie

EVENTS & FUNDRAISING COMMITTEE

Madeleine Beresford

Nathan Chalmers

Claudene Howell

Daphne Robertson

Helen Opie

Kim Wintle

SURREY JUNIOR LAWYERS DIVISION

Seema Gill (Chair)

Joanna Earl (Vice Chair)

Alex Watson-Lee (Past Chair)

Lily Bohling

Amber Davis

Tim MacFarlan, Joe Lloyd-Perks & Erin Stockdale

Bethany Chamberlain

Majeja Miah

Linda Asare

Maysun Nawaz

Bisma Hussain

Email: surreyjuniorlawyersdivision@gmail.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ young-surrey-lawyers

Instagram: jld_surrey

Twitter: @YSL_Live / @SurreyJLD

President’s Jottings

SUMMER 2026

As we move through what continues to be a busy and challenging year for the profession, I have been struck again by the importance of creating opportunities for meaningful discussion between practitioners. Whether through consultation work, leadership forums, regional events or conversations with colleagues from other local law societies, it is clear that many of the pressures facing firms are shared, even where the individual circumstances differ.

In June, we held our second Surrey Law Leaders Forum in collaboration with Evelyn Partners. The event brought together managing and senior partners from across the county for an informal dinner at Barnett Hill Hotel, with discussion held under the Chatham House Rule. The format allows for a level of openness which is not always possible in larger or more formal settings, and I was pleased to see such thoughtful engagement from those who attended.

Running a modern legal practice brings with it a complex mix of challenges: regulatory expectations, recruitment and retention, succession planning, client expectations, technological change and commercial pressure, to name only a few. Forums of this kind provide an opportunity to step back from the day-to-day and speak candidly with others who are facing similar issues. I believe that is an increasingly important part of the Society’s role.

These themes also came through in a recent conversation I had with Dan Warburton for the Law Firm Owners Podcast, where we discussed leadership, growth and the evolving legal sector. The conversation covered issues which will be familiar to many firm leaders, including recruitment, delegation, profitability, business development and building sustainable growth. It was an enjoyable opportunity to reflect on some of the lessons learned through practice management and leadership, and to consider how firms can continue to adapt in a changing market.

Regulation has, of course, remained another significant theme in recent months. The Society recently submitted its response to the SRA’s consultation on its Business Plan and Funding Requirements for 2026/27. I am grateful to all members who contributed to that process. The strength of feeling from members was unsurprising. Firms understand the need for robust regulation, but there is a clear expectation that any increase in cost must be matched by visible improvements in performance, consistency and confidence in the regulatory system.

Consultation responses are not always the most visible part of the Society’s work, but they are an important one. They ensure that the views of practitioners in Surrey are fed into wider professional

discussions, particularly where proposals may have practical consequences for firms and clients. At a time when regulatory and economic pressures are being felt across the sector, it is vital that local voices continue to be heard.

On a broader level, the profession is operating against a backdrop of political and economic uncertainty. At the time of writing, the country is again facing a period of political transition, with questions about future policy direction and public spending inevitably following. For the legal profession, these wider developments matter. Access to justice, the sustainability of high street practice, the future of legal aid, court capacity, regulation and the use of technology in legal services are all affected by the decisions made in Westminster.

On a more celebratory note, I was pleased to represent Surrey Law Society at the Devon and Somerset Law Society Legal Awards. It was an excellent evening and a valuable opportunity to see another local law society celebrating the achievements of its members. Events of this kind are a reminder that, across the country, local law societies continue to play a significant role in recognising excellence, supporting professional communities and championing the work of solicitors in their regions.

Closer to home, I am delighted that this year’s SLS Legal Awards have received so many nominations. The strength and volume of entries is a real testament to the quality of legal work being carried out across Surrey. The shortlisting process was exceptionally difficult, and I would like to congratulate all those who have been shortlisted. I look forward to celebrating with members, sponsors and guests at G Live in October.

Finally, I am pleased to see the launch of this year’s Past President’s Event: the SLS Past President’s Culinary Challenge at the Gordon Ramsay Academy in Woking. It promises to be a very different and enjoyable addition to the Society’s calendar and I hope many of you will be able to join us.

Thank you for your continued support. 

James

Scozzi President Surrey Law Society

James Scozzi

TCEO Report

SUMMER 2026

here have been several significant highlights for Surrey Law Society in recent weeks, each reflecting a different aspect of the Society’s work: bringing members together, representing the views of the local profession, strengthening links with The Law Society, and continuing to provide a varied programme of training and events across the county.

In May, we were delighted to welcome representatives from The Law Society of England and Wales to Guildford for a Property Power Hour discussion focused on the future of conveyancing and property practice. Kindly hosted by TWM Solicitors, the session brought together conveyancing practitioners and property specialists from firms across Surrey and the surrounding region to discuss the significant changes and pressures currently affecting the sector.

The session was led by Law Society President Mark Evans, Clare Harman Clark and Nick Denys, and covered a wide range of current issues including home buying and selling reform, digitalisation, HMRC’s Mandatory Tax Advisor Registration requirements, lender requirements, the National Conveyancing Protocol and developments relating to TA6. It provided a valuable opportunity for local practitioners to engage directly with The Law Society and share practical concerns from the front line of conveyancing practice.

We have also continued our work representing members on key professional issues. Most recently, Surrey Law Society submitted its response to the SRA’s consultation on its proposed Business Plan and Funding Requirements for 2026/27, following feedback from members across a broad range of firms, practice areas and roles. While members recognised the importance of effective regulation and appropriate investment where it delivers genuine improvement, there was significant concern regarding the scale of the proposed increases, including the suggested 29% increase in the SRA’s overall funding requirement and the impact of increased practising certificate and Compensation Fund contributions.

Our response emphasised the need for greater transparency, accountability, measurable improvement and demonstrable value for money. We also highlighted concerns about the potential impact on sole practitioners, smaller firms and legal aid providers, and encouraged the SRA to ensure that future funding arrangements more fairly reflect differing firm sizes, business models and risk profiles. My thanks go to all members who took the time to contribute to this important piece of work.

Another major highlight has been the response to this year’s SLS Legal Awards. We received more nominations for the 2026 Awards than ever before, with an overwhelming number of submissions across the categories. The standard of entries was exceptionally high, and I know the shortlisting process was an extremely difficult task. Huge congratulations to all those who have made the shortlist, and thank you to everyone who entered.

I am also very pleased to announce the launch of our new Past President’s Event for 2026: the Surrey Law Society Past President’s Culinary Challenge, taking place at the Gordon Ramsay Academy in Woking on Thursday 17 September. This exclusive evening will combine food, drinks and relaxed networking with an interactive cooking experience led by the Academy’s expert chefs. The response so far has been incredible and spaces are now limited, so I would encourage anyone wishing to attend to book soon.

In June, I was delighted to attend the Surrey Resolution Ball at the beautiful Farnham Castle. It was wonderful to see so many family practitioners coming together to celebrate, and a real pleasure to attend as a guest. My thanks go to Karen Barham for the kind invitation.

Our events programme has also continued to bring members together across the county. In the midst of a June heatwave, we held our second Surrey Law Leaders Forum in collaboration with Evelyn Partners. The dinner, held at the thankfully air-conditioned Barnett Hill Hotel, brought together

managing partners and law firm owners in an informal setting to discuss the challenges and opportunities of running a modern legal practice. Held under the Chatham House Rule, the evening allowed for open and thoughtful discussion, and it was encouraging to see such strong engagement from senior leaders.

We have also now completed our spring programme of regional socials, concluding with our first social event in Woking: an Escape Room Challenge at Escape Hunt. It was fantastic to see so many members come together for an evening involving teamwork, problem-solving and, inevitably, competitive spirit. Congratulations to the team from Elite Law Solicitors, who escaped the fastest for the second year running. This final event followed our gin distillery experience at Bone Idyll in Kingston and games evening at Mulligans in Guildford, making for a varied and enjoyable programme across the county.

My sincere thanks go to Evelyn Partners, Landmark Information, Allica Bank, Finders International and Pro Drive IT for their generous support.

Finally, our training programme has continued at pace, covering a broad mix of practical, technical and professional development topics. Recent sessions have included a webinar with The College of Legal Practice on SQE qualification routes, Stephen Desmond’s Residential Conveyancing Update 2026, kindly sponsored by Landmark Information, and online courses on mental capacity and nuptial agreements.

Looking ahead, demand remains strong, with our forthcoming in-person session on the IHT changes to pensions, BPR and ABR with John Bunker now sold out. We are also pleased to be hosting our first Breakfast Briefing in collaboration with Allica Bank, bringing members together at The Ivy Castle View for a focused roundtable on regulatory and client account developments.

My sincere thanks go to all those who continue to support the Society, whether by attending events, contributing to consultations, serving on committees or championing our work across the Surrey legal community.

Warm regards. 

Helen Opie Chief Executive & Magazine Editor

T. 0333 5773830 helen.opie@surreylawsociety.org.uk

@SurreyLawSoc

@surreylawsociety

Helen Opie (Chief Executive at Surrey Law Society)

Surrey Law Society

Helen Opie

Leading Employment & Community Care Law Solicitors Open New Office in Birmingham

Martin Searle Solicitors opened their seventh office, in Birmingham, in May 2026, as they welcomed the newest member to their employment law team.

Daniel Godfrey has left a high-profile trade union law firm to join their specialist workplace discrimination law team. Daniel is used to running high volume claims for employees and specialises in disability discrimination claims arising from neurodiversity and unfair dismissal claims.

Prior to this he worked for a national trade union and for trade associations. He also has extensive experience bringing and defending claims in the Employment Tribunal.

His skills in advising on complex and technical employment law issues, as well as carrying out his own advocacy, are a great addition to Martin Searle Solicitors’ heavyweight Employment Law Team. Daniel’s arrival comes at a time when Martin Searle Solicitors are establishing an Employee Ownership Trust, so all their employees become shareholders.

Campaigning For Change Since 2004

Founded in Brighton in 2004, Martin Searle Solicitors provide expert advice in Employment Law and Court of Protection and Community Care law. They are well known for Mind the Bump, their first ever campaign to stamp out Pregnancy and Maternity discrimination. They now run numerous other annual campaigns such as #MeToo Matters, Disability Matters and Diversity Matters to stamp out discrimination in the workplace and to raise awareness around issues regarding paying for care.

Fiona Martin, Director and Head of Employment Law, says “We are delighted to welcome Daniel to our Employment Law team. He has the same ethics and values that we hold dear – to promote our clients’ interests and to successfully settle, defend or win their cases.

Opening our new Birmingham office will attract new clients in one of the busiest Employment Tribunal centres in the UK. While there are many corporate firms representing employers in Birmingham, there is a need for more specialist Claimant firms that are affordable and fight for equality. We provide plain-speaking advice at a fair price and try to settle cases early to avoid the expense of a full Employment Tribunal hearing.

We also act as Freedom of Choice solicitors for those clients that have legal expenses attached to their home contents insurance that cover employment law claims.”

Daniel Godfrey, Senior Legal Executive, says “I'm pleased to join Martin Searle Solicitors and to be instrumental in opening their Birmingham office. What drew me to the firm above all else is its identity as a campaigning practice — one that sees employment law not just as a technical discipline but as a vehicle for real change. That ethos resonates deeply with my own background. I've spent my career working closely with trade unions and workplace organisations, and that experience has given me a thorough understanding of workplace dynamics from all sides — something I know is just as valuable to the employers and HR teams I work with as it is to the individuals I represent. Martin Searle Solicitors feels like a natural home for this approach, and I'm excited about what lies ahead in Birmingham”

Martin Searle Solicitors also deliver expert advice on Court of Protection and Community Care law, helping clients navigate the complexities around paying for care and challenging care and support decisions. Their team also advise Professional Deputies and private client lawyers in order to help achieve the best possible results for their vulnerable clients, families and carers.

Award Winning Experts in Employment & Community Care Law

Martin Searle Solicitors also has offices in Brighton, Croydon, Gatwick & Crawley, Eastbourne, Haywards Heath and Shoreham. This year they were shortlisted for the Best Initiative of the Year in both Disability & Neurodiversity and Women in Law at the Legal 500 ESG Awards. This recognises organisations across the legal sector that demonstrate leadership in diversity and inclusion, sustainability, social mobility and pro bono work.

It is also their 10th anniversary since they won the Law Society Excellence Award in Business Development for their Services for Professional Deputies and Attorneys. They are well known for providing expert advice and training to Professional Deputies across the country. ■

Helen Smith Immigration welcomes the arrival of Moji Oyediran as a Senior Counsel

Moji joins from Travers Smith, where she advised businesses on a broad range of UK immigration matters, including sponsored work visas, employer sponsor licence applications, as well as immigration compliance and immigration issues arising from corporate restructures.

Helen Smith comments: “I am thrilled that Moji is joining our team. Her depth of UK immigration experience spans over 20 years,... and she is universally appreciated by all those who have the pleasure of working with her.”

About Helen Smith Immigration

Helen Smith Immigration (HSI) is a boutique immigration law firm serving clients across the UK and globally. HSI provides the full range of UK immigration and nationality applications for businesses and individuals, particularly for those in the technology, biotech and arts sectors. The firm is known for its calm confidence and cultural awareness, paired with a genuine enthusiasm for their clients’ ambitions.

For more information, visit https://helensmithimmigration.co.uk. ■

KWW Solicitors has a new equity partnership team following the retirement from full-time work of former managing partner David Anstee.

David, who was also in charge of KWW's family law department, joined the East Molesey law firm in 1997, became a partner in 2003, and had been senior partner since 2018.

The new partners are Karen Starkey – the first female equity partner in KWW's 73-year history – and Tariq Phillips. They join Salvatore Sole, who has been with KWW for the past 20 years and is one of Surrey's premier property solicitors.

David is staying on with KWW as a consultant. “It's been challenging - no more so than when we had to deal with the Covid crisis – but a complete privilege to have been at the helm of such a long-established and widely respected Surrey institution,” he said.

“Looking back, I'm proud of the way we not only navigated Covid but the way we have integrated technology and modern working practices into the business, all the while maintaining our personality and the allso-important human element of the law.

“I have also enjoyed giving opportunities to aspiring solicitors, one of which was Karen, and training and mentoring them to the point where they are now enjoying wonderful careers.”

Salv Sole said: “We're so pleased to be able to retain David's services for another year at least, and I will certainly be leaning on his experience. That said, myself and my two new partners have some ideas of where KWW needs to go from here, and we are looking forward to implementing them.

Karen Starkey first female partner at KWW Solicitors as David Anstee scales back

“One thing that will never change is our focus on our clients and making sure we do everything we can to deliver the outcomes they want.

“There is nothing artificial about the intelligence that abounds at KWW, and we will continue to be the choice for clients who want to deal with real people, not robots or algorithms.”

Karen Starkey is well-known round East Molesey, having lived in the area for many years. She started her legal career with KWW, then joined another Surrey Law firm before returning to Walton Road in 2025 to run KWW's Private Client department, specialising in Wills, lasting powers of attorney, and probate.

Tariq Phillips is a highly experienced commercial property solicitor who joined KWW in 2025. Tariq specialises in acquisitions, disposals and leases and he acts for private individuals and businesses across sectors such as offices, restaurants, bars, industrial units, and shops.

KWW is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and holds the Conveyancing Quality Standard. The firm carries a strong ratings score of 4.7/5 on Google and the ReviewSolicitors client feedback platforms.

For more information contact:

Salv Sole 0208 979 1131 s.sole@kww.co.uk. ■

Triple win for Morr & Co at Probate Industry Awards 2026

Law firm Morr & Co is proud to announce a triple award win at the Probate Industry Awards 2026, held in London, recognising both individual excellence and team-wide achievement across the firm’s Private Client and Court of Protection practices.

At the ceremony, Morr & Co, which has offices in Surrey, Hampshire and London, received the following awards:

• Probate Lawyer of the Year – Natalie Payne

• Court of Protection Team of the Year

• Outstanding Achievement in the Industry – Holly Chantler

The awards are widely regarded as a benchmark of excellence within the probate and private client sector, recognising individuals, teams and firms who demonstrate exceptional standards of technical expertise, quality of service, client care, professional integrity and innovation, as well as a meaningful contribution to the development of the probate and Court of Protection landscape.

Submissions are assessed by an independent panel of industry experts, with judges considering not only legal excellence, but also the real-world impact of work on clients and families, collaboration across teams and contribution to raising standards across the profession.

Natalie Payne’s Probate Lawyer of the Year award reflects her technical expertise, sound judgement and empathetic approach to advising clients through complex probate matters. Her work is recognised for combining clarity and sensitivity during what are often challenging times for individuals and families.

The Court of Protection Team of the Year award highlights the strength, depth and consistency of Morr & Co’s specialist Court of Protection team and its ongoing commitment to supporting vulnerable clients through clear advice, strong advocacy and practical solutions.

Holly Chantler’s Outstanding Achievement in the Industry award recognises her significant contribution not only to Morr & Co, but to the wider probate and Court of Protection sector, reflecting her leadership, innovation and influence across the profession.

Catherine Fisher, Managing Partner at Morr & Co, said: “We are incredibly proud of this recognition.

“Natalie’s award is richly deserved and reflects the care, skill and professionalism she brings to her work every day.

“To see our Court of Protection team recognised in this way is also a real testament to the collective expertise and commitment across the team.

“Holly’s Outstanding Achievement award recognises not just her leadership at Morr & Co, but her broader contribution to the profession and to some of society’s most vulnerable people.”

Looking ahead, this recognition supports Morr & Co’s continued investment in its people, its specialist teams and the way it supports clients through complex and often sensitive matters. Building on this success, the firm remains focused on developing its Private Client and Court of Protection practices, sharing expertise across the profession and continuing to set high standards for client care, collaboration and technical excellence. ■

L-R Holly Chantler and Natalie Payne

Morr & Co makes 20 promotions to support growth plans

Leading law firm Morr & Co is celebrating 20 key promotions as it continues to expand across Surrey, Hampshire and London.

Among the senior appointments, Francesca Wild has been promoted to partner in the employment team, while Laura Robson has been made partner in residential property.

Catherine Fisher, managing partner at Morr & Co, said: “Recognising and celebrating the achievements of our people is a hugely important part of our culture at Morr & Co.

“Each one of these individuals has demonstrated real talent, commitment and ambition, and these appointments reflect the valuable contribution they make to our clients and teams.

“These changes come at an exciting time for the firm as we launch our new 2026–2029 business plan. We remain committed to investing in our people, technology and processes, while continuing to nurture home-grown talent and support the firm’s ambitious long-term growth plans with strategic new hires.”

Francesca Wild joined Morr & Co as a Senior Associate in 2018 and has played an integral role in the growth of the employment practice. She advises employers and employees on a wide range of contentious and non-contentious employment matters, including senior exits, grievances, restructures and complex tribunal claims.

Francesca said: “I'm really excited to be joining the partnership of such a fantastic firm with such a fun and collaborative group of people. I'm looking forward to seeing what the future holds.”

Laura Robson, who joined the firm with extensive experience in the local property market, now leads Morr & Co’s Guildford office. Since qualifying in 2017, she has advised on a broad range of residential property transactions, with particular expertise in high-value and prime residential sales and purchases.

Laura said: “Morr & Co is a very supportive firm. They are keen for people to progress and provide the right tools, such as the partner pathway scheme. It makes it feel worthwhile once you do achieve that next step because you know you’re ready for it.”

The wider promotions span multiple practice areas including employment, dispute resolution, commercial property, private client, Court of Protection and corporate & commercial, alongside several appointments across the firm’s business services teams.

Jemma Durham and Harriet Greener have both become associate solicitors in dispute resolution.

Harriet said: “I love the supportive culture and the people at Morr & Co. Being able to work closely with colleagues across multiple disciplines and share expertise creates a really positive working environment.

“Strong collaboration also allows us to deliver the very best outcomes for our clients and supports the development of every member of the firm.”

Morr & Co has reported year-on-year net profit growth over the past three years, with its latest business plan centred around three strategic priorities: people, process and productivity.

For more information, please visit https://morrlaw.com/. ■

TWM Solicitors announces new office at Cedar Court, Leatherhead

TWM Solicitors is pleased to announce the opening of their new office at Cedar Court, Leatherhead, bringing together teams from Epsom, Leatherhead, along with the Reigate Family team into a single, modern, purpose designed workspace.

The move marks an important step in TWM’s ongoing commitment to providing exceptional service to clients across Surrey, London, the South East, UK-wide and internationally.

Same people. Same service. Now at Cedar Court. All existing legal matters will continue uninterrupted, and clients will work with the same solicitors and support teams they know and trust. We remain active and committed to our Epsom and Reigate communities, and we will continue to offer local meeting facilities when needed.

A modern workplace designed for today’s legal needs

The new Cedar Court office brings teams together into a single hub, supporting modern working practices and enabling more seamless collaboration across departments.

Key improvements include:

• Enhanced meeting and collaboration areas

• Better accessibility

• Improved digital infrastructure to support efficient, responsive service

• A more sustainable and efficient office footprint.

TWM Solicitors announces three-year sponsorship with Reigate Priory Cricket Club

Why we’re moving

The move to Cedar Court follows a period of steady growth and a recognition that the firm had outgrown some of its previous office spaces. By bringing teams together, TWM has created a future-ready environment that supports productivity and wellbeing without disruption to clients or professional partners.

Jamie Berry, Managing Partner at TWM Solicitors, said: “Cedar Court gives us a modern, purpose-built office that brings our people together and better reflects how we work today. It’s an operational improvement designed to strengthen collaboration across our teams, enhance our client experience, and support the future of the firm.

“While our address is changing, our commitment to the communities we serve remains the same. We’re excited to welcome clients and partners to our new office and continue delivering the high-quality, personal service TWM is known for.”

New address

TWM Solicitors

Cedar Court

Guildford Road

Leatherhead

KT22 9RX ■

TWM Solicitors is proud to announce a new three-year sponsorship agreement with Reigate Priory Cricket Club, reinforcing the firm’s long-standing commitment to supporting local communities and grassroots sport in Surrey.

Founded in 1852, Reigate Priory Cricket Club is one of Surrey’s leading community cricket clubs, providing opportunities for players of all ages and abilities through its extensive men’s, women’s, boys’ and girls’ teams. Based at Park Lane in Reigate, the club plays a vital role in bringing people together, promoting participation in sport, and supporting the development of young players across the area.

Through this partnership, TWM aims to support not only the club’s continued growth, but also the wider benefits that grassroots sport delivers to

the local community – from fostering teamwork and wellbeing to creating inclusive opportunities for people of all backgrounds.

The sponsorship builds on TWM’s strong connection to Reigate and the surrounding area. While some of the firm’s teams are now based in Leatherhead, Reigate remains an important part of TWM’s history and its ongoing commitment to serving local individuals, families and businesses.

Jamie Berry, Managing Partner at TWM Solicitors, said: “Reigate has been part of TWM’s story for many years and we are proud to support the local community through this partnership with Reigate Priory Cricket Club.

“Grassroots sport plays a vital role in community life – bringing people together, supporting young people, and creating opportunities at every level

of ability. Clubs like Reigate Priory are at the heart of our communities, and we are delighted to support their continued success over the next three years.”

David Robinson, Sponsorship, Fundraising and Marketing Manager at Reigate Priory Cricket Club, added: “We are very pleased to welcome TWM Solicitors as a sponsor of Reigate Priory Cricket Club.

“As a club with deep roots in the local community, partnerships with organisations such as TWM are incredibly valuable in helping us continue to grow and provide opportunities for players of all ages and abilities.” ■

David Robinson, Reigate Priory Cricket Club; Gillian Dunlea, TWM Solicitors

TWM Solicitors has expanded its mediation offering with the launch of two new specialist services, supporting the resolution of contentious probate, Will and trust disputes and property disputes.

The new services build on the firm’s established family mediation practice, led by Partner Sarah Archibald, and reflect a continued focus on supporting constructive, out-of-court resolutions across a broad range of disputes.

Specialist-led, independent mediation

The new mediation services are led by experienced practitioners Stuart Downey and Simon Burdett-Dixon, combining subject-matter expertise with accredited mediation training.

Stuart Downey leads mediation in contentious probate, Will and trust disputes. Unusually, Stuart has practised both as a non-contentious private client lawyer and as a contentious trusts and estates specialist, giving him a dual perspective that can assist in identifying practical and often creative routes to resolution.

TWM Solicitors expands mediation offering with specialist services in private client and property disputes

A parallel mediation offering in property disputes, led by Simon Burdett-Dixon, will support the resolution of both commercial and residential property disputes. As a practising disputes lawyer in this area, Simon brings a detailed understanding of both the legal frameworks and the commercial and personal realities that often sit behind property conflicts.

Supporting fellow professionals

The services will particularly support other lawyers and professional advisers seeking an effective and independent route to resolving disputes for their clients.

To preserve that independence, TWM does not act for any party in another capacity on matters where it is appointed as mediator. This provides clarity for referrers and reinforces the neutrality that is central to the mediation process.

Building on an established platform

The expansion builds on TWM’s existing family mediation practice where Partner Sarah Archibald supports clients in resolving sensitive

Charles Russell Speechlys is celebrating a ten-year partnership with the Community Foundation for Surrey, which has resulted in the Guildford CRS Community Fund providing grants of £166,554 to local charities and supporting over 19,855 individual beneficiaries in Surrey.

Charles Russell Speechlys in Guildford set up the Fund in 2016, administered by the Community Foundation for Surrey, to help disadvantaged groups in the local community to develop skills and gain access to new opportunities. Since its establishment in 2020, funding has been provided through the CRS Foundation.

Award recipients are chosen by a volunteer panel from the firm consisting of lawyers (from partners to trainees) and support staff, who meet each quarter to evaluate the submissions. Over the last decade, awards have been granted to a wide range of charities including Skillway, Step by Step, The Bike Project, Action for Carers, The Therapy Garden and Home-Start Guildford.

issues, including arrangements for children and financial matters.

Across all areas, the firm’s mediation offering is underpinned by:

• Independence and impartiality

• Strong subject-matter expertise

• A practical, solution-focused approach to dispute resolution.

Jamie Berry, Managing Partner at TWM Solicitors said:

“We are seeing growing demand from fellow professionals for mediators who combine technical expertise with a practical approach to resolving disputes.

“By expanding our mediation offering across private client, property and family matters, we can support that demand while maintaining the independence and clarity that referrers and their clients expect.” ■

Charles Russell Speechlys Guildford Community Fund Reaches 10 Year Milestone

Recipients over the last year included a grant to Challengers to help fund a summer holiday scheme for disabled young people aged 1318, providing opportunities at a time when they are particularly vulnerable to isolation and loneliness due to the lack of suitable holiday clubs and activities. A grant was made to the Intergenerational Music Making (IMM) Guildford Hub towards funding 24 weekly sessions to connect older and younger people in the local community, helping improve mental health and wellbeing. The funding also supported the delivery of six dedicated IMM volunteer training sessions, focused on intergenerational practice, community leadership and creative facilitation skills.

Projects and organisations that receive grants are offered further support from the firm through pro bono legal advice, sharing of our business services colleagues professional skills and volunteer time. They are also able to join webinars that we run for our key charity partners that are designed to help increase capacity and knowledge and cover a range of business topics

such as PR, cyber security and digital marketing.

Sally Ashford, Partner and Head of the Guildford office at Charles Russell Speechlys said, “Reaching the ten-year milestone with the Community Foundation for Surrey is something we are extremely proud of. When we established the Fund, we wanted to create a meaningful and practical way to support smaller charities and community projects that make a real difference to people’s lives locally.

“The Community Foundation for Surrey has been an outstanding partner, helping us identify where funding can have the greatest impact and connecting us with inspiring organisations across the county. What has made this initiative particularly special is that it has become much more than a grants programme. It has enabled our team to build lasting relationships with local charities, contribute their time and expertise, and see first-hand the difference these organisations make. We are fully committed to continuing to play an active role in supporting our local community and helping to widen access to opportunity.” ■

L-R Stuart Downey, Sarah Archibald, Simon Burdett-Dixon

Representatives from Charles Russell Speechlys with James Collines (Trust Funding Officer) from Challengers

On 1 June 2026, independent law firm Stevens & Bolton announced the appointment of Alexa Payet as a Partner in its private wealth disputes practice, alongside a number of internal promotions, in an ambitious 2026 growth drive.

Alexa joins the firm from Michelmores, where she built a significant practice and strong reputation in trusts and estates litigation, specifically in contentious probate. She has nationally recognised expertise in cases involving assisted dying and relief from forfeiture applications, having acted in all of the key decisions and helped shape this area of law in recent years. Her practice also includes extensive work in the UK Court of Protection, advising on complex financial and property matters, including the appointment and removal of deputies and attorneys, statutory will applications, lifetime gifting and property and affairs disputes.

Alexa’s appointment further bolsters Stevens & Bolton’s well-established and successful private wealth team, which has seen exponential growth in recent years.

Stevens & Bolton expands private wealth disputes team with partner hire Alexa Payet

Leading PWD lawyer Alexa Payet’s arrival from Michelmores follows 9 internal promotions reflecting the firm’s continued investment in talent and growth

Commenting on Alexa’s arrival, James Lister, Head of Private Wealth Disputes, said:

“It is a pleasure to be welcoming someone of Alexa’s calibre. Our private wealth disputes team continues to go from strength to strength, having seen 23% growth in the last financial year alone and 108% since the group was launched in 2022. Alexa has a pre-eminent track record in a number of specialist legal areas critical to client needs. She brings not only outstanding skill but a reputation for handling sensitive matters with care and authority. Assisted dying /forfeiture is a sensitive and complex area of the law, and Alexa’s arrival will play an important role in further growing our capability for handling such cases. It’s particularly exciting to see the firm continuing to invest in our leading private wealth disputes practice alongside the continued growth and success of the private client business as a whole.”

Alexa Payet, Partner, added:

“This is an exciting time to be joining Stevens & Bolton which is on an ambitious growth trajectory. The team’s expertise in handling complex contentious private client matters, both in the UK and internationally, is well-known, and I am really looking forward to working with the team to grow the practice further, particularly against a changing legislative backdrop.”

The news accompanies 9 recent internal promotions including the promotion of Krishna Patel to Partner in the Corporate team and appointment of Abigail Palmer-Page as Head of

Probate and Estate Administration within the Tax and Trusts team.

Jeremy Kelly (Commercial & Technology) and Deliya Meylanova (Commercial Litigation) have been promoted to managing associate; and Adam Creasey (Tax & Trusts), Chelsea Feeney (Employment), Alice Gardiner (Tax & Trusts), Kerry Roshier (Commercial Real Estate) and Amelia Talfourd-Cook (Tax & Trusts) promoted to senior associate.

The announcements also follow two recent leadership appointments within the firm: Hannah Ford as Head of Employment, Immigration & Pensions, and Charlie Maurice as Head of Commercial & Technology.

Commenting on the expansion, James Waddell, Managing Partner, concluded:

“Investing in our team is a core part of our growth strategy at Stevens & Bolton. Alexa’s deep expertise in trusts, estates and complex assisted dying matters makes her an exceptional addition to our Private Client offering. I am delighted to welcome her to the team and extend my congratulations to all our new partners, managing and senior associates, and Heads of Practices. Seeing talented lawyers continue to develop their careers with us is especially rewarding. Investing in our people and creating opportunities for them to grow remains central to our long term strategy and to delivering excellence for our clients.” ■

Could healthcare save our high streets? New think tank behind Dame Kate Barker’s Housing Commission launches at UKREiiF

Neighbourhood Health Hubs and a range of other public and private health services could prove to be the keys to high street and town centre regeneration, according to Radix Big Tent.

The influential think tank behind the Kate Barker-led Housing Commissionwhich helped shape many of the DHCLG’s housing delivery policies - will launch a new project to bring community health on to the UK’s high streets, both to improve public health and act as a catalyst for regeneration. Sponsored by engineering, architecture, planning and environmental consulting group Sidara, independent national law firm Stevens & Bolton, and architects James Totty Partnership, the Health on the High Street Commission will launch on the 19th May to coincide with this year’s UKREiiF.

The cross-sector Commission is setting out to identify practical steps to unblock the planning, financial and cultural obstacles to high street regeneration through health; not to produce another glossy vision document.

The commission will be chaired by author, designer and place-strategist, Professor Ibrahim Ibrahim of Sidara’s Portland Design, with the independent commission comprising experts from investment, planning, place-making,

national and local government, and public and private health care.

Commissioners include crossbench peer, Lord (Andrew) Mawson, the driver behind the trailblazing Bromley-by-Bow Health Partnership, and Michael Brown, the chief architect of the groundbreaking Barnsley Health Hub, which has seen outpatient services relocated to the town centre Alhambra shopping centre.

The Commission plans to report within twelve months. In addition to conducting desk research and commissioning original research, the commissioners are eager to hear evidence from and learn from successful examples of delivering health on the high street across the country.

Announcing the Commission’s launch, Radix Big Tent Chief Executive, Ben Rich, says:

“There is widespread political agreement that putting health services at the heart of communities is a good idea. And yet, despite this consensus, progress is glacial.

“Why? Because the system designed to deliver this is stuck in neutral. Speaking with senior leaders from the NHS and private health

providers, local government, private investment and regeneration, what becomes clear is that there is not a lack of ambition, but a wall of institutional and systemic inertia that prevents change. The purpose of this commission is to identify and produce policies to remove the friction points that stall delivery.”

Professor Ibrahim Ibrahim added: “The focus of the commission is less about the details of the healthcare provision and more about its halo effect, and how it can drive social and commercial value in our high streets and shopping centres."

Andrew Steele, Partner at Stevens & Bolton, said:

“Healthcare is increasingly recognised as a powerful anchor for town centre regeneration and is a great opportunity to repurpose existing retail space as well as diversify our high streets with long-term, resilient assets.

We’re proud to be supporting the Commission as it works to identify practical solutions that can support the long-term health of our high streets, turning policies into progress.” ■

From ASSETS to OUTCOMES

Why cashflow modelling is transforming private client advice

Craig de Jong Partner, Financial Planning

Across many disciplines of legal practice, I’ve learnt how the role centres on helping clients structure their affairs with care, precision, and foresight – whether that involves wills, trusts, lifetime gifting, or estate mitigation strategies, all with the aim of ensuring legal robustness and preserving the client’sintentions over time.

From experience, what is often less clear – at least from a purely legal perspective – is whether those plans are financially sustainable. This is where financial planning can help bring clarity to some of those important questions.

Moving BEYOND the SNAPSHOT

Much of the information relied on arrives as a snapshot: a balance sheet of assets, current income, and perhaps a broad understanding of expenditure. But a clients’ life is not static, and neither are their financial needs. The key question sitting behindmany of these interactions is: “Can my client afford to do this – both now and in the future?”

Cashflow modelling can answer that question by projecting a client’s financial position forward, often over their lifetime. It maps income, expenditure, tax, inflation, and investment performance year by year to show whether assets will sustain the client’s objectives. In effect, it converts a static estate into a dynamic financial narrative.

Where CASHFLOW can directly SUPPORT your ADVICE

1. Lifetime Gifting and IHT Planning

You will regularly advise on potentially exempt transfers, trust funding, or other IHT mitigation strategies. The legal framework is well established. The uncertainty lies in affordability. A client may say:

– “I’d like to gift £500,000 to my children now”

– “I want to settle assets into trust”

The risk, as you know, is over-gifting – compromising the clients own future lifestyle or care needs. Cashflow modelling allows us to test:

Much of private client work is, at its heart, about giving clients confidence – confidence that their affairs are in order, their wishes will be honoured, and their future is secure.

– How much capital can be given away safely

– The impact of gifts on future income needs

– Whether the client retains sufficient resilience against inflation, longevity, and care costs

It provides a quantitative answer to what is otherwise a judgement call.

2. Trust Planning with Real Financial Context

When advising on trust structures, particularly discretionary or life interest trusts, you are determining how assets are held and distributed.

What cashflow modelling adds is insight into:

– Whether the level of trust funding is appropriate

– How distributions may affect both settlor and beneficiaries over time

– How investment returns (or underperformance) could impact outcomes

This is particularly useful in multi-generational planning, where decisions made today may have consequences decades into the future.

3. Later Life Planning and Care

One of the most sensitive areas advised on is later life –powers of attorney, care fee planning, and asset protection.

Clients will often ask:

– “Will I be able to afford care if I need it?”

– “Should I ringfence assets now?”

Cashflow modelling enables a structured way to:

– Stress test care cost assumptions

– Model different care scenarios (home care vs residential)

– Understand how long assets may last under varying conditions

This can materially improve both the quality of the advice and the confidence with which it is delivered.

4. Business Owners and Succession

Where clients hold business interests, succession planning often involves:

– Extracting capital

– Passing shares to the next generation

– Balancing income needs with succession objectives

The legal structure is only part of the picture. The real issue is sequencing: “If this client gives away or restructures their business, what replaces their income?”

Cashflow models can simulate:

– Sale proceeds vs retained income

– Timing of retirement

– Reliance on investment portfolios post-exit

This helps ensure that succession strategies are not only efficient, but workable.

Why this IMPROVES client OUTCOMES

It grounds advice in reality

Without modelling, many discussions rely on assumptions or general comfort levels. With modelling, you are anchoring decisions in evidence – albeit forward-looking.

It reduces risk

From a professional perspective, anything that improves the robustness of client decisions is valuable. Clients are less likely to revisit decisions negatively when they have seen the projected consequences in advance.

It enhances client understanding

You will be familiar with clients who struggle to fully grasp the implications of complex planning. Visual cashflow outputs –clear timelines, depletion curves, and scenario comparisons –tend to make abstract issues tangible.

It strengthens your collaborative network

Increasingly, the best client outcomes come from joined-up advice.

Where you work alongside a financial planner using cashflow modelling, you create a more cohesive advisory framework:

– Upholding legal effectiveness

– Aiming to ensure the plan remains financially sustainable

What this LOOKS LIKE in PRACTICE

In practical terms, cashflow modelling is about recognising when a client would benefit from:

– Forward-looking financial analysis

– Scenario testing before implementing legal strategies

And introducing a financial planner who can provide that modelling alongside your advice.

The most effective collaborations tend to involve:

– Early engagement (before decisions are finalised)

– Shared understanding of the client’s objectives

– Discussions as plans evolve

A FINAL thought

Much of private client work is, at its heart, about giving clients confidence – confidence that their affairs are in order, their wishes will be honoured, and their future is secure. Interactive cashflow modelling strengthens that confidence. It reframes the conversation from “Is this legally effective?” to “Will this actually work for the rest of my client’s life?”

And that is often the question clients care about most. ■

Conveyancing Under Pressure: Key Updates from The Law Society Property Power Hour in Guildford

Conveyancing practitioners from across Surrey and the surrounding region gathered in Guildford on Thursday 14 May as Surrey Law Society welcomed representatives from The Law Society of England and Wales for a Property Power Hour session focused on current developments affecting conveyancing practice.

Hosted by TWM Solicitors at their Guildford office, the session provided attendees with updates from The Law Society on a range of ongoing policy, regulatory and practice issues currently affecting conveyancing firms.

The session was led by Law Society President Mark Evans, Clare Harman Clark, Chair of the Law Society’s Property Section Committee, and Nick Denys, Head of Private Law, Technology and Sustainability at The Law Society.

A key focus of the session was the government’s recent consultation on reforming the home buying and selling process. The panel explained that there is clear interest from government in improving the efficiency and transparency of property transactions, something that many practitioners in the room agreed was needed.

The panel outlined a number of proposals and areas currently under consideration, including a requirement for sales packs and upfront information, the potential use of digital property log books and wider efforts to improve consumer awareness and understanding of the conveyancing process and property transaction journey.

The panel referenced feedback received during recent consultation work which suggested that a significant proportion of conveyancing practitioners continue to rely heavily on paperbased processes, highlighting the challenge of balancing increasing digital expectations with the operational realities facing many firms.

There was also recognition that successful modernisation requires consistent implementation of digital systems across the wider property sector and public infrastructure, including government and local authority processes, if reforms are to deliver meaningful practical improvements for practitioners and consumers alike.

“HMRC’s proposed Mandatory Tax Advisor Registration requirements generated significant interest during the session...”

HMRC’s proposed Mandatory Tax Advisor Registration requirements generated significant interest during the session. The panel outlined The Law Society’s concerns regarding aspects of the proposals, particularly in relation to SDLT advice, professional responsibility and the potential impact on firms already managing substantial compliance obligations. The panel advised that firms should carefully consider the requirements and make their own decisions regarding registration based on their individual circumstances and risk profiles. Attendees were reminded that The Law Society has published guidance on the issue, including a series of recommended actions for firms to consider.

The session also explored the ongoing push towards greater digitalisation within conveyancing practice and some of the practical challenges associated with implementing change across a diverse profession with differing working practices and levels of technological adoption.

The National Conveyancing Protocol was another important area of focus, with updates provided on ongoing review work aimed at ensuring the protocol remains fit for purpose in light of changes affecting modern property practice, including building safety legislation, cybersecurity risks, digital signatures and evolving client expectations.

Conveyancing Under Pressure: Key Updates from The Law Society Property Power Hour

in Guildford

Alongside the policy and practice updates, the session also provided an opportunity for local practitioners to share experiences and raise practical concerns affecting day to day conveyancing work.

A recurring theme throughout the afternoon was the cumulative pressure facing smaller high street firms as regulatory, procedural and technological reforms continue to reshape the sector.

One attendee perhaps summed up the realities of modern conveyancing best when commenting that:

“Conveyancing is expected at Amazon Prime speed, Harrods quality for Lidl pricing.”

The discussion could easily have continued for several more hours, reflecting both the complexity of modern conveyancing practice and the sheer number of challenges currently facing practitioners in this area.

Surrey Law Society would like to thank The Law Society, all speakers, attendees and TWM Solicitors for supporting such an engaging and valuable session. ■

FINALISTS

Booking Now Open

The Surrey Law Society is delighted to announce the Finalists for the SLS Legal Awards 2026. This year's Awards attracted an exceptional standard of nominations from across Surrey's legal community, with firms of all sizes putting forward outstanding individuals, teams and initiatives. Our independent judging panels have once again faced the difficult task of selecting those who will go forward to the final stage.

Congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted. Being recognised is a significant achievement and reflects the high calibre of legal talent, innovation and client service across the county.

Winners will be announced at the SLS Legal Awards 2026 on Thursday 15 October 2026 at G Live, Guildford, where more than 300 guests from across the legal profession and associated businesses will come together to celebrate excellence in Surrey's legal community.

We look forward to celebrating with all of our finalists and wish everyone the very best of luck.

FIRM AWARDS

1. LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (16+ FEE EARNERS)

• Burley Geach Solicitors LLP

• DMH Stallard LLP

• Downs Solicitors

• Elite Law Solicitors

• Howell Jones Solicitors

• Owen White Catlin

3. CLIENT EXPERIENCE AWARD

• Burley Geach Solicitors LLP

• KGW Family Law

• Peacock & Co Solicitors

• Rosewood Solicitors

5. EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR

• DMH Stallard LLP

• GBH Law Ltd

• Rosewood Solicitors

2. LAW FIRM OF THE YEAR (UP TO 15 FEE EARNERS)

• Helen Smith Immigration

• Pearson Hards LLP

• Rosewood Solicitors

• Surrey Hills Solicitors

• Venters Solicitors

4. COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD

• Downs Solicitors

• Family Team, Dutton Gregory LLP

• Elite Law Solicitors

• Helen Smith Immigration

• Meadows & Co

• Peacock & Co Solicitors

6. FAMILY LAW TEAM OF THE YEAR

• Elite Law Solicitors

• Howell Jones Solicitors

• Matrimonial and Care Team, Rosewood Solicitors

• Penningtons Manches Cooper

• Surrey Hills Solicitors

• Venters Solicitors

9. PROPERTY LAW TEAM OF THE YEAR

• Burley Geach Solicitors LLP

• DMH Stallard LLP

• Elite Law Solicitors

• Morr & Co LLP

• Pearson Hards LLP

• Surrey Property Lawyers

• TWM Solicitors

10. OUTSTANDING SURREY LAWYER OF THE YEAR

• Katherine Carroll, Peacock & Co Solicitors

• Holly Chantler, Morr & Co LLP

• Alastair Hargreaves, Meadows & Co

• Rachael House, Dutton Gregory LLP

• Samantha Jago, DMH Stallard LLP

• Will Macauley, TWM Solicitors

12. RISING STAR AWARD

• Emily MacNiven, Downs Solicitors

• Claire-Louise Smith, Pearson Hards LLP

• Samantha Smith, DMH Stallard LLP

• Rebekah Sutcliffe, Morr & Co LLP

• Downs Solicitors

• Morr & Co LLP

7. PRIVATE CLIENT TEAM OF THE YEAR

• Howell Jones Solicitors

• Russell-Cooke LLP

• TWM Solicitors

• Private Wealth Disputes Team, Moore Barlow

10. LEGAL TEAM OF THE YEAR

• Court of Protection Team,

• Morr & Co LLP

• Criminal Defence Team,

• Rosewood Solicitors

• Education Team,

• Russell-Cooke LLP

Morr LLP Rosewood Solicitors Russell-Cooke

• Karin Walker, KGW Family Law INDIVIDUAL & PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE AWARDS

11. PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT & PRACTICE MANAGEMENT AWARD

• Aliyah Akhtar, Rosewood Solicitors

• Management Support Team, Burley Geach Solicitors LLP

• Client Services Team, Elite Law Solicitors

• Evie Walmsley, Meadows & Co 13. STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP AWARD

• Victoria Clarke, Elite Law Solicitors

• Emma Patel & Dev Jummoodoo, Rosewood Solicitors

The Role of Probate Genealogy in International Estate Administration

As estates increasingly involve beneficiaries living abroad or relatives born in different jurisdictions, tracing international heirs has become a complex but essential aspect of probate administration.

Cross-border family connections can be difficult to verify without specialised expertise, and failure to identify entitled heirs may expose solicitors and executors to legal and financial risk. Such failures could also trigger professional indemnity insurance notifications if omissions lead to negligence claims

International probate genealogy offers a way to navigate these challenges by providing thorough research across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring all beneficiaries are accurately identified.

Using this specialist due diligence, legal professionals can better manage risk, ensure compliance with relevant laws, and uphold the integrity of the estate administration process.

Common challenges with tracing overseas heirs

Tracing overseas heirs presents a number of challenges that can complicate the administration of an estate and increase the risk of error for solicitors and executors.

In many cases, family members may have emigrated several decades ago, often losing contact with relatives who remained in the UK. As a result, their descendants may be entirely unknown to the current family or mistakenly presumed deceased.

Inconsistent record-keeping and differing legal systems across jurisdictions can also hinder the identification and verification of international heirs. Without careful investigation, this can lead to the omission of legally entitled beneficiaries, particularly in cases of intestacy.

The consequences of these oversights can be significant, including delays, disputes, and potential claims of professional negligence.

Solicitors must take proactive steps to address these issues, and engaging experienced probate genealogists with expertise in international research can make the process more straightforward.

Doing so not only improves accuracy but also provides a clear evidential trail, demonstrating that appropriate due diligence has been carried out to safeguard the estate and those responsible for its administration.

The risks of overlooking international beneficiaries Incorrect or incomplete distribution of the estate

When international beneficiaries are overlooked, the estate may be distributed to individuals who are not legally entitled to inherit the full share they receive. This is particularly problematic under intestacy, where entitlement is strictly defined by law.

Without accurate information on overseas heirs, rightful beneficiaries can be excluded, resulting in an incorrect distribution that may need to be fixed further down the line.

In some cases, probate may need to be reopened, causing additional expense and administrative burden.

Legal challenges and delays

Omitting international beneficiaries who later assert their rights can lead to legal disputes, potentially causing significant delays to the estate’s administration.

These challenges can lead to contested estates, court proceedings, and increased legal costs for all parties involved. Disputes may also strain professional relationships and damage the reputation of the solicitor or firm involved.

Early identification of all heirs, regardless of their location, is key to avoiding these complications and ensuring a smooth probate process.

Exposure to professional negligence claims

Solicitors and executors have a duty to take reasonable steps to identify and include all entitled beneficiaries.

Overlooking international heirs, especially where due diligence has not been properly carried out, can lead to allegations of negligence. Claims may trigger notifications to professional indemnity insurers and could impact future premiums. Commissioning international probate research from a qualified genealogist can help mitigate these risks, demonstrate a commitment to thoroughness, and protect those responsible for administering the estate.

Once research is complete, solicitors can take an additional step to protect against residual risk by arranging Missing Beneficiary Insurance. Through Finders International’s relationship with Aviva, insurance cover is available to safeguard estates and practitioners against future claims if a previously unknown heir later emerges.

Case Study: International Family Branch Discovered After Probate Had Begun

A solicitor administering the estate of a woman who died intestate was provided with what appeared to be a straightforward family history: the deceased had one surviving brother in the UK, and no known relatives overseas. Based on this information, the solicitor began preparing for distribution to the brother’s children, who were believed to be the only entitled heirs.

During routine document gathering, a distant relative mentioned that a second sibling had emigrated to South Africa in the 1980s but had not been in contact for decades. Unsure whether this was credible, the solicitor instructed an international probate genealogy firm to investigate before proceeding further.

Research confirmed that the deceased did indeed have a sister who had settled abroad and raised a family. Although the sister had since died, her two children — living in Johannesburg and Cape Town — were legally entitled to inherit under intestacy. Their existence had been entirely unknown to the UK based family.

Because the estate was still at the pre distribution stage, the solicitor avoided misallocation of assets — but the discovery required significant adjustments, including revised estate accounts, delayed timelines, and extensive cross border communication. The case also highlighted the potential for professional indemnity exposure: had distribution proceeded prematurely, the firm might have faced a negligence claim and a compulsory insurance notification.

This case shows how easily international heirs can be overlooked when families have emigrated or lost touch and reinforces the importance of specialist cross border genealogical research in modern estate administration.

Best practices for international heir identification

Effective international heir identification requires a structured and evidence-led approach.

Best practice begins with gathering all available family information from the client. Solicitors should then engage in international research to trace and verify overseas relatives.

This may include:

• Making local enquiries

• Conducting searches in libraries and archive offices

• Searching through birth, death and marriage records

• Using historic family trees to trace individuals

• Searching through online archives

Clear documentation of the research process is essential, providing an audit trail and supporting future legal scrutiny if required.

By following these steps, legal professionals can demonstrate due diligence, minimise risk, and ensure the estate is administered lawfully and fairly.

How probate genealogists navigate cross-border research

Probate genealogists use a combination of specialist knowledge, international networks, and local expertise to navigate the complexities of cross-border research. They work with vetted researchers and investigators, carrying out detailed enquiries and on-the-ground research to trace heirs across jurisdictions.

Genealogists use methodical research techniques to build accurate family trees and have experience overcoming challenges such as language barriers, differing legal frameworks, and inconsistent documentation.

Their expertise is particularly valuable where heirs have emigrated, changed names, or where records are incomplete.

This thorough approach helps ensure that no rightful beneficiary is overlooked during estate administration. ■

“Genealogists use methodical research techniques to build accurate family trees and have experience overcoming challenges such as language barriers, differing legal frameworks, and inconsistent documentation...”

What does a good banking relationship look like for law firms in 2026?

Lionel Ross – Head of Fiduciary Sectors at Allica Bank

In your firm, does banking feel like a service or a utility? Perhaps the question should be what law firms want it to be?

As long as payments move, accounts remain accessible, and compliance requirements are met, a perfunctory banking experience ticks all the right administrative boxes

However, as legal practices face growing challenges around operational complexity, regulatory scrutiny, and fraud risks, banking needs to move beyond the basics. The quality of service and relationship has become a far greater focus.

The answer to the opening question is not one or the other, it’s both. Holding segregated client funds safely, with the appropriate level of liquidity, allowing firms to transact and open accounts in real time should be prerequisites. Every bank should be able to move money and segregate funds. True value comes not from meeting the basics, but from a relationship-led service that is directly accessible, responsive, and built around the operational and regulatory complexity of your firm. Not one that is hidden behind call centres and chatbots.

Expectations, reality, and the chasm between them

A big change has happened in business banking. It didn’t happen overnight and there was no press release that announced it, but banks have steadily pulled back on relationships. The traditional model of having a local bank manager who knows your business is practically extinct. Instead of turning to a familiar face, you have to put up with hold music and chatbots.

For banks, it made perfect sense. A centralised, scalable, and automated service delivers efficiency. For regulated professional businesses like law firms, it often delivers the opposite of what’s needed.

You’re operating in one of the tightest regulatory environments, handling significant amounts of client money, and dealing with time-sensitive transactions. Your banking needs are not the same as the average business. You need personalised, contextual support – not another live chat.

Where relationship-led banking helps

At its best, relationship-led banking is about more than having a named contact. It creates continuity and a deeper understanding of how your firm operates.

A strong banking relationship is built on understanding transaction patterns, financial processes, organisational structures, and the pressures facing finance teams. Over time, that knowledge removes friction. You spend less time explaining how your firm works and more time resolving the issue at hand. It sounds like a small distinction, but it can significantly improve the speed and quality of decision-making. When a bank already understands your firm, it can respond more effectively because it is not starting from scratch every time a question arises.

Context is the defining feature of great banking Fraud and cybersecurity threats are increasingly sophisticated, to the point that a distant banking relationship could become a security risk.

Technology remains an essential part of fraud prevention, but it is only one layer of defence. A banking team that understands what “normal” looks like for a law firm is often better placed to recognise unusual activity before it develops into a problem.

They understand typical transaction values, payment patterns, and established processes. Familiarity creates an additional layer of awareness that complements technology rather than replacing it.

Spotting suspicious activity is good. Spotting activity that is suspicious for your firm is better. That level of awareness is difficult to achieve without the context that comes from a strong banking relationship.

The importance of sector expertise

Beyond continuity and context, there is another characteristic that defines a strong banking relationship for law firms: sector understanding.

The legal sector has unique operational and regulatory requirements. Finance teams and COFAs must balance operational efficiency with strict compliance obligations, while maintaining robust controls around client money. Add audit requirements and governance processes, and the picture becomes far more complex than the average SME.

If your bank understands these realities, it can provide more relevant support. You’re speaking the same language, rather than speaking past each other. More importantly, it can adapt its approach to the reality of running a law firm instead of expecting firms to adapt to generic banking processes.

Good banking for legal firms meets four criteria

What, then, should law firms realistically expect from a banking partner in 2026?

First, continuity. Your bank should provide access to experienced people who understand your firm and remain involved over the long term.

Second, responsiveness. When questions arise or issues need resolving, firms should be able to access expert support without unnecessary delays.

Third, sector expertise. Your bank should understand the legal profession, its regulatory environment, and the operational realities that make your banking needs unique.

Finally, a relationship that adds value beyond basic banking tasks. Your bank should help you operate more efficiently, manage risk more effectively, and navigate change with greater confidence.

Good banking has very little to do with tools or features. It’s about context, expertise, and the kind of relationship that helps law firms operate more effectively in an increasingly complex environment. ■

Lionel Ross Head of Fiduciary Sectors at Allica Bank

MHCLG announces major home buying and selling reforms: What legal professionals need to know

Earlier information. Better decisions. Fewer delays.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has announced a significant package of reforms, shaped in collaboration with industry, designed to transform the home buying and selling process in England and Wales. For conveyancers, solicitors and legal professionals working in residential property, the changes signal a clear shift in how transactions will be structured, with implications for how cases are prepared, managed and progressed.

The reforms follow extensive industry consultation and set out a roadmap for transforming the way property information is collected, shared and utilised across the transaction chain.

Earlier information, fewer late-stage surprises

At the heart of the reforms is a straightforward objective: ensuring that buyers, sellers and legal professionals have access to better quality information earlier in the transaction.

The Government has acknowledged that the current process is too fragmented, frequently resulting in avoidable delays, duplicated enquiries and transactions collapsing at late stages — challenges that will be familiar to anyone working in residential conveyancing.

The proposed changes aim to address this through:

• Mandatory upfront property information provided in sales packs

• Increased use of digital, reusable property data

• Improved digital verification and identity processes

• More consistent standards across the property sector

• A more connected, digital process

What’s being proposed?

The headline proposal is the introduction of mandatory sales packs, requiring sellers to collate key property information before marketing begins. For legal professionals, the significance lies in what that information will cover including:

• Title and ownership information

• Seller identity verification

• Property searches and condition assessments

• Leasehold information and service charges

• Planning consents, flood risk and building safety data

• EPC ratings, council tax information and floor plans

The aim is to surface issues earlier in the process, reducing the volume of enquiries raised post-instruction and giving legal professionals a more complete picture from the outset.

What does this mean for conveyancers and solicitors?

Chris Loaring at Landmark Legal

“The Government’s response marks a meaningful step towards improving a process that has remained too slow, uncertain and fragmented. By prioritising upfront information, digitalisation and earlier commitment between parties,

these reforms can significantly reduce delays and fall throughs that currently undermine confidence across the market. Crucially, this must include greater access to property risk data at the outset of a transaction. When buyers, lenders and conveyancers are working from a verified view of factors such as flood risk, climate exposure and land use constraints, decisions can be made earlier and with far greater certainty. If the industry aligns around consistent, trusted data standards, we have an opportunity to create a more transparent, efficient and resilient transaction process that better supports home movers and property professionals alike.”

In practical terms, earlier access to structured property information should mean:

• Fewer enquiries raised on missing or incomplete information

• Earlier identification of title, leasehold or planning issues

• Reduced duplication across the transaction chain

• Greater certainty for clients and less risk of late fall-throughs

• More time spent on complex legal work rather than chasing information

Spotting suspicious activity is good. Spotting activity that is suspicious for your firm is better. That level of awareness is difficult to achieve without the context that comes from a strong banking relationship.

How the reforms will be rolled out

These changes will not happen overnight. The Government has outlined a clear roadmap:

Later in 2026 – A new Code of Practice for property agents and guidance to improve the quality of information in property listings

From 2027 – Consultation on estate agent qualifications and expansion of digital tools and trusted digital verification

By the end of Parliament – Legislation requiring sales packs, more binding transaction commitments and broader digital property information initiatives

There are no immediate mandatory changes for legal professionals today, but the direction is set and firms that prepare early will be well placed to adapt.

Looking ahead

At Landmark Information Group, we have worked closely with Government throughout this process and will continue to support the legal sector with the trusted data, search solutions and digital tools needed as these reforms develop.

We will monitor developments closely and provide further guidance as additional details emerge. ■

By Landmark Information

Private equity overtakes merger as UK law firms' preferred route to growth, new research reveals

Three-quarters of firms seeking investment now favour private equity as sector faces "once-in-a-generation" transformation according to survey of UK law firm leaders

Private equity has overtaken merger and partnership as the preferred growth strategy among UK law firms seeking investment, according to new research from leading legal technology provider Dye & Durham. According to the results: Among firms seeking investment, 75% now favour private equity, while only 52% cite the traditional route of merger or partnership.

The finding is among several key insights from the extensive research that appear to signal a once-in-a-generation shift in firms' attitudes to investment, technology, and growth.

The data suggests the market shift may be more advanced than many in the profession realise. While previous research has tracked private equity deal volumes and the extent to which firms have been approached by investors, this is believed to be among the first studies to measure law firms' own investment preferences, finding a marked shift toward private equity and away from the traditional merger or partnership route.

Speaking about the release of the report today, Colin Bohanna, Managing Director of Dye & Durham UK, said: "This research confirms what many in the profession are increasingly alert to, and which many more have yet to realise: there is a monumental shift taking place in the UK legal market, and it will affect every part of the profession.

"While the traditional merger and partnership model is in no danger of going away, there is a remarkable transformation taking place in UK law, one that is changing how law firm leaders operate and which will have a growing influence in years to come. We hope this research will be a useful tool to the industry in navigating a way forward.”

Other key findings of the research include:

• 86% of legal professionals polled in a live survey agreed that the business model of UK law firms has evolved more in the past 10 years than in the previous 20

• 88% of senior leaders agreed their technology platform signals their firm's maturity to external investors

• 80% said financial performance expectations are higher today than five years ago

• 45% cited talent recruitment and retention as the single biggest barrier to scaling

The report draws on an independent survey of 200 senior leaders at midsized and large UK law firms, conducted by Arlington Research, with 80% of respondents from firms with 50 or more fee earners. Dye & Durham supplemented this with a live poll at the British Legal Technology Forum and an in-depth interview with Adrian Jaggard, CEO of Taylor Rose and AIIC Group.

Market analysis

The complete whitepaper of the research findings – The Future of UK Law Firms 2026: Changing Leadership, Capital, and Operating Models – also draws attention to what is likely driving these changing attitudes, specifically a "trifecta" of forces driving the shift: the growth of the consultant model (now over 4,000 practitioners)1, the rise of alternative business structures (from 8% of SRA-regulated firms in 2017 to 13% by 2022/2023)2, and an unprecedented influx of private equity (£1.2bn invested over five years, with a record £534m in 2024 alone)3, with 70% of mid-sized UK law firms approached by private equity investors in 2025.4 Together, the paper argues, these forces are reshaping not just how firms are financed, but how they operate and compete.

The full report can be found at: dyedurham.co.uk/resources/ebooks-reports/ About the research

The Future of UK Law Firms 2026: Changing Leadership, Capital, and Operating Models is based on:

• An independent survey of 200 senior leaders and technology decisionmakers at mid-sized and large UK law firms, conducted by Arlington Research between 20 January and 4 February 2026. Respondents included equity partners, salaried partners, C-suite executives, practice managers, and consultant lawyers. 80% were from firms with 50 or more fee earners.

• A live poll of 51 attendees at the British Legal Technology Forum (BLTF) 2026, one of Europe's largest legal technology conferences.

• An in-depth interview with Adrian Jaggard, co-founder and CEO of AIIC Group and Taylor Rose, one of the UK's largest consumer-facing law firms. dyedurham.co.uk ■

Half of South East adults back digital Wills as law remains stuck in 1837

Asurvey conducted by Will Aid reveals a growing disconnect between public expectations and UK law, as 49% of adults in the South East now believe they should be legally permitted to sign and store their Wills electronically – slightly below the national figure of 54%.

Despite the rapid digitisation of financial services, the Wills Act 1837 continues to govern inheritance in the UK. To date, a fully electronic Will remains legally invalid. Documents can be drafted online, however, they must still be printed and signed in ‘wet ink’ to be recognised.

A survey of 2,000 people across the UK, carried out by the charity Will-writing campaign Will Aid, has uncovered a significant appetite for reform both nationally and at a regional level.

• Electronic Wills: In the South East, 49% of people agree that Wills should be signed and stored online.

• Video witnessing: 42% of respondents in the South East believe that witnessing should be allowed via platforms like Zoom or FaceTime, a practice that was temporarily permitted during the pandemic but has since ceased to be legal.

• Resistance to change: Despite the push for technology, caution remains. In the South East, 22% of respondents oppose electronic signing and 28% are against remote witnessing – compared to 16% and 23% respectively across the UK – citing potential security concerns.

The Law Commission published its landmark Modernising Wills Law report in May 2025. The report recommended sweeping changes, including the formal recognition of electronic Wills and the permanent introduction of remote witnessing. However, these recommendations are still awaiting government implementation.

Lauren Smith, Partner and Head of Wills, Trusts & Probate at Taylor Bracewell, said: “Unfortunately, the law never seems to move as fast as technology, and often people tend to forget this. Whilst so much of everyday life is now dealt with online it is important to realise that Wills must still meet certain criteria which was set out nearly 200 years ago.

“There are discussions of reforms, but lots of factors have to be considered to ensure that the Will maker is protected – and to ensure that a Will cannot be unlawfully made on behalf of someone else! Professional advice is essential to ensure that your wishes are met, and your loved ones are not left a mountain of problems to deal with after your death.”

“The public is clearly ready for the law to modernise in this respect,” says Will Aid’s Campaign Director, Peter de Vena Franks. “While the Law Commission has provided a roadmap for modernising these Victorian-era rules, we would welcome the changes come in sooner rather than later.

“What is really important when it comes to making a Will is to liaise with a solicitor who will provide the gold standard of Will writing. That’s why the annual Will Aid campaign in November is so special, our firms volunteer their time and expertise to ensure everyone who takes advantage of the scheme has a Will drafted by an expert. Not only does that provide essential peace of mind that your wishes will be met, but it also helps eight of the UK’s most loved charities continue to carry out the exceptional work they do.”

Will Aid is a nationwide campaign that takes place every November and sees participating solicitors across the UK volunteer their time to write basic Wills, waiving their usual fee in exchange for a voluntary donation.

Suggested donations are £120 for a single Will and £200 for a pair of mirror Wills – with all donations supporting the vital work of eight leading UK charities.

These include Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, Crisis, NSPCC, SCIAF (Scotland), Shelter and Trócaire (Northern Ireland).

If making or revising your Will is on your to-do list this year, you can sign up to be the first to know when Will Aid 2026 opens for bookings. Appointments do go very quickly, so it is advisable to sign up now at https://www.willaid.org.uk/early-bird ■

Council Member’s ReportSummer 2026

Since my last report, June has certainly kept us all on our toes. Between the soaring temperatures and the pace of developments affecting the profession, there has been plenty to keep us busy.

There have also been changes within government, and at the time of writing it remains unclear who will be appointed as the next Justice Minister. By the time this edition reaches you, we may well have an answer.

Three key issues are currently affecting solicitors:

• Practising certificate (PC) fee increases proposed by the Law Society and the SRA.

• The review of the Solicitors Act 1974 costs regime.

• The government's A Fairer End to Relationships consultation. We have recently seen two consultations on practising certificate (PC) fees. The Law Society consulted first, followed by the SRA's proposals, which included some eye-watering increases. Unsurprisingly, these proposals have prompted strong reactions across the profession, and I hope many of you took the opportunity to respond.

A Fairer End to Relationships consultation

The government has also launched its consultation, A Fairer End to Relationships. The proposals may affect clients across a range of privately funded practice areas, including litigation, family and private client work.

I would encourage colleagues practising in these areas to read the consultation and consider submitting a response, so that the profession’s experience and expertise are reflected in the government’s decision-making.

Links to both consultations are provided below. Reform of the Solicitors Act 1974 (Part III): https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/Topics/Regulation/Whats-changing/ Reform-of-the-Solicitors-Act-1974-Part-III

A Fairer End to Relationships consultation: https://consult.justice.gov.uk/digital-communications/afairer-end-to-relationships-consultation/consultation/ subpage.2026-05-06.2183737341/

I am pleased that SLS is actively engaging on members' behalf in these consultations. It is also important for solicitors to stay informed about wider developments affecting the profession, including legal services reform, access to justice, the responsible use of artificial intelligence, anti-money laundering compliance, and solicitor wellbeing.

Changing the requirements for first tier complaints a further consultation closing on 1st September 2026 please see SRA’s website.

Conveyancing: UK government’s plans to reform the homebuying and selling process check out Today's Conveyancer for details (https://todaysconveyancer.co.uk/homebuying-selling-reformmust-built-practical-delivery/) .

The Civil Justice Council continues to look at wider reforms to the civil justice system, including how litigation is managed, the use of digital technology and the rules around costs and dispute resolution. These are important developments that could shape the way many of us practise in the years ahead.

Members will also have noticed the continued modernisation of our courts and tribunals. HMCTS is pressing ahead with its digital reform programme, with ongoing changes to filing processes, case management and the way hearings are conducted. While many of these changes aim to improve efficiency, they also require firms to adapt to new ways of working.

Artificial intelligence is another area evolving at pace. The Law Society and the SRA continue to publish guidance to help firms make informed and responsible use of AI. Many practices are already exploring how AI can support their work, while ensuring they continue to meet their professional obligations around confidentiality, supervision and data protection.

Finally, I know many members are keen to hear more about the proposed transfer of anti-money laundering (AML) supervision to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). At present, there have been no further updates. As soon as there is any substantive news, I will be sure to share it with members.

The Law Society also continues to champion better access to justice and is pressing for sustainable funding for legal aid. This remains a vital issue, not only for those providing legal aid services but also for the many individuals who rely on access to high-quality legal advice and representation.

Supporting solicitors themselves also remains high on the agenda. The Law Society continues to focus on wellbeing, workplace culture and attracting and retaining talented people within the profession. We all recognise the pressures that many practitioners face and ensuring that the profession remains a rewarding and sustainable career is more important than ever.

Finally, as we head into the summer months, I hope you all have the opportunity to take a well-earned break, spend time with family and friends, and return refreshed. I wish you all a wonderful and relaxing summer, and I look forward to catching up with many of you at our forthcoming Surrey Law Society events.

As always, if there are issues affecting your practice that you think the Law Society should be aware of, please do get in touch. Hearing directly from local practitioners helps ensure that your views are represented. I will also be happy to take matters to the Law Society. By email: office@sabrahamsolicitors.co.uk and telephone: 02083900044. ■

Sushila Abraham

Council Member for Surrey at the Law Society

Constant pressures facing solicitors highlight need for stronger support across the profession

Solicitors across England and Wales are facing increasingly complex pressures, with many experiencing challenges that affect their wellbeing, confidence, and ability to cope.

The Solicitors’ Charity’s Big Report 2025–2026 highlights a growing shift across the profession. Demand for support has now tripled since 2023, with more solicitors navigating overlapping challenges across emotional, financial, professional, and physical wellbeing.

For law societies and professional bodies, the findings reinforce the importance of ensuring solicitors know where to turn when life becomes difficult.

Behind each case is a solicitor dealing with real and often interconnected issues. Financial pressure, health challenges, career uncertainty and emotional strain are rarely experienced in isolation.

Nick Gallagher, CEO of The Solicitors’ Charity, said: “What we are seeing across the profession is not just increased demand, but more complex need. Challenges rarely exist in isolation, and that has implications for how we respond as a profession.

Local law societies play a vital role in awareness-raising of our support, helping us reach people earlier and ensuring no-one feels they have to face these challenges alone.”

The report also highlights the impact of timely support. 83% of those supported said they felt more positive and able to cope, both now and in the future. 

When Your Legal Software Finally Moves As Fast As You Do

How Leiper Gupta Family Lawyers rebuilt its operations to grow faster, bill smarter, and keep client care at the centre of everything

Leiper Gupta Family Lawyers (LGFL) was never meant to be a conventional firm. When Rita Gupta and her co-founder Anne Leiper set it up in 2008, they wanted autonomy and faster decision-making, away from partner committees where nothing ever seemed to get decided. That meant building the firm around technology from the start.

Nearly 18 years later, LGFL has grown into a leading family law boutique with 11 staff and a fully paperless operation. Rita now shares what she’s learned with others, speaking at legal technology conferences and having recently completed the Goldman Sachs Mini MBA.

18 years of growth also meant 18 years of evolving demands. Their original case management software had been a reasonable fit at the start. But it had been built primarily as an accounting tool with case management added on top, and as LGFL grew, the gaps became harder to work around.

“I never do anything less than a hundred and twenty miles an hour, so for me it was really frustrating.”

Their software wasn’t cloud-based, so billing often had to wait. Getting invoices out remotely meant carrying a laptop and hunting for a reliable connection. Rita remembers one holiday in Devon where it took hours just to get the monthly bills through, the system crashing repeatedly.

Seeing the ceiling before you hit it

Rita could see where the firm was headed: more practice areas, more clients, more complexity. Technology had always been central to LGFL, and she knew that as the firm evolved, the systems had to evolve with it.

“Any law firm wanting to survive has to embrace technology positively. It’s not something we can ignore.”

She started evaluating options and brought her team into the process. They attended trade shows and worked through demos methodically. Two vendors made the final cut, and one feature separated them: Clio’s client portal.

LGFL regularly shares large volumes of sensitive documents with clients, and doing it securely had always required more steps than it should have.

“When you’re paperless, it has to be done securely,” Rita says. Clio’s client portal gave them a straightforward way to do exactly that. Now clients have one place to access everything, and documents get where they need to go without the hassle.

Choosing the right centre of gravity

Rita had been clear about what she needed: a cloud-based system with centralised data. With Clio, the daily shuff le between tools stopped.

“We love the fact that it’s all together. We don’t have disparate systems. And I think that’s really important when you’re a lean, agile firm like ours.”

Rita has since brought a solutions architect on board to deepen how the firm uses Clio, and they’re constantly exploring what else the platform can do.

The rhythm of a well-run firm

Billing was the first thing to improve. In their previous system, getting monthly invoices out across 90-100 matters was a two-to-three-day process, with real operational risk if the person running it was away. Now, the same cycle takes hours, and multiple team members are trained to run it.

“We can usually get all our month’s bills out within hours now, whereas prior to that it would take two to three days in the old system.”

Client onboarding followed a similar pattern. The process had been dependent on individual knowledge and was hard to hand off . Rita standardised it, saving roughly 15-20 minutes per client and creating a much smoother experience for new team members learning the ropes.

The client portal has become one of the firm’s most valued tools. LGFL walks each new client through it in a brief onboarding session, and uptake has been better than expected. “We’ve got people who say they’re really not very tech savvy using it and loving it,” Rita says. “And it saves my inbox.”

Away from the off ice, Rita relies on Clio’s mobile app. “I was in the back of the taxi, checking a document and then time recording,” she says. The work travels with her, and nothing gets left behind.

Freeing the lawyer to be a lawyer

LGFL is also putting Clio’s AI capabilities to work, giving lawyers more capacity for the complex work only they can do. The team runs a dedicated channel where they share prompts, compare results, and build on each other’s findings.

It reflects how the firm has always approached technology: thoughtfully, and as a team. Rita is clear about why that matters from the start.

“Technology helps us be better lawyers. My whole ethos is that it frees us up to get away from the administrative aspects of being a lawyer.”

That matters for a boutique firm competing for talent. When the systems are doing their job, the firm can take on more complex work, maintain a higher standard of client care, and grow without simply adding headcount to absorb the load.

18 years in, LGFL still moves at the speed it was built for. The firm Rita set out to build has never been more capable of taking on whatever comes next. ■

Closing the Profitability Gap in UK Law Firms

Read the full report here

A growing pressure on people

The operational strain is also having a clear impact on people. Burnout is now reported as a widespread issue, with the majority of firms identifying it as a concern, alongside high levels of staff turnover. When highly trained legal professionals are spending hours on repetitive administrative tasks, the consequences extend beyond lost productivity. It affects engagement, retention and the overall sustainability of the firm. Without change, this pressure risks undermining both performance and culture.

“Nearly 18 weeks a year is currently lost to non-billable work. This is not a marginal issue; it is a systemic one. But it is also solvable. The firms that act decisively to address it will help define the future of legal practice in the UK.”

UK law firms are at a critical inflection point. While nearly seven in ten firms report increased profitability over the past year, the reality beneath that headline tells a different story. Significant inefficiencies remain embedded within daily operations, limiting how far firms can truly grow.

Recent research from LEAP’s Profitability in Law: Global Report 2026, based on insights from 700 legal professionals across six markets, highlights a clear disconnect between potential and performance. An overwhelming 93% of firms believe they could be more profitable, yet many continue to operate with fragmented systems, manual processes and limited adoption of modern technology.

One statistic stands out above all: UK legal professionals are spending close to three hours a day on non-billable tasks. Over the course of a year, that equates to 88 working days, or nearly 18 weeks, lost to work that does not directly contribute to revenue.

This is not just an operational inefficiency. It is a structural challenge impacting profitability, talent retention and longterm competitiveness.

The cost of inefficiency

Across the sector, administrative burden remains one of the most persistent barriers to growth. Nearly half of firms cite excessive manual work as a key issue, while over a third struggle with managing multiple disconnected systems.

These inefficiencies create duplication, increase risk and prevent lawyers from focusing on high-value, client-facing work. At the same time, firms are navigating rising pricing pressure, making it even harder to maintain margins while delivering quality service.

The result is a profession being squeezed from both sides: external pressure to deliver more value, and internal limitations that restrict efficiency.

Technology as the turning point

Encouragingly, the path forward is already visible. Firms that are investing in integrated technology and AI are beginning to close the productivity gap. A significant majority of legal professional’s report that AI is already delivering measurable time savings, particularly in areas such as document review, drafting and workflow automation.

The UK market is emerging as a leader in this transition. Firms are demonstrating strong adoption of AI and workflow technologies, particularly in areas that directly impact efficiency and client delivery.

This shift is not about replacing legal expertise. It is about enabling it, freeing lawyers from administrative burden so they can focus on higher-value work.

From awareness to action

Despite widespread recognition of the problem, execution remains inconsistent. While automation and better technology are widely acknowledged as priorities, far fewer firms have taken meaningful steps to reduce administrative load or consolidate their systems. Closing this gap requires a more deliberate approach.

Firms that successfully improve profitability are those that focus on eliminating non-billable work, integrating their technology stack and equipping teams with tools that support efficiency at scale. Responsible adoption of AI, with appropriate verification and oversight, is also becoming a key differentiator.

Defining the future of legal practice

The legal sector has always evolved, but the pace of change is accelerating. Firms that modernise their operations now are positioning themselves for stronger profitability, improved client service and better staff retention.

Those that delay risk falling behind in an increasingly competitive market.

Craig Matthews CEO, LEAP UK

ED CAPE’S DEFENDING SUSPECTS AT POLICE

STATIONS The practitioner’s guide to advice and representation

WILDY, SIMMONDS AND HILL PUBLISHING

By Ed Cape, Matthew Hardcastle and Sandra Paul with Jawaid Luqmani

HIGHLY TOPICAL FOR THOSE

DEFENDING

AT POLICE STATIONS

An appreciation by Elizabeth Robson Taylor MA of Richmond Green Chambers and Phillip Taylor MBE, Head of Chambers, Reviews Editor, “The Barrister”, and Mediator

This work remains the definitive guide for those advising detainees at the police station. It’s an essential purchase for solicitors, duty solicitors, custody officers, criminal law students and for those preparing for police station accreditation. And it is written for, and dedicated to, all those lawyers, trainee lawyers, students, and others who are committed to fairness and justice in our criminal process.

The authors are Ed Cape, Matthew Hardcastle and Sandra Paul with Jawaid Luqmani. They offer us authoritative guidance which remains unrivalled. Comprehensive yet highly accessible and practical, “Defending Suspects”, first published in 1993, provides us with the answers to every day practical questions and problems. We think that the Legal Action Group (LAG) are to be commended for the continued publication of this new edition. For those new to LAG, it is a national, independent charity which campaigns for equal access to justice for all members of society.

LAG’s mission aims to strengthen the voice of the people and communities denied access to justice; to support frontline charities, lawyers and advisers to deliver access to justice; and to influence law and policy to improve access to justice and create a fair legal system for all. And they do just that.

The first few chapters of the book explain the basic principles of defending clients at the investigative stage and examine the key provisions of PACE and the Codes of Practice which are now over 40 years old. As the authors state: “much has changed during that time”, and we are lucky enough to have this book as a result!

Subsequent chapters tackle the various stages of advising a client including taking instructions, advising on ‘silence’, interview strategies, samples and searches, identification procedures and the charge decision. The book also includes dedicated chapters on advising and assisting vulnerable clients, on enforcement of the PACE and Code provisions, and on advising immigration detainees.

This ninth edition has been fully updated to include all key developments since the last edition in 2020, plus the latest codes, regulations and guidance issued by the Home Office, the College of Policing and the CPS and the latest caselaw.

“Defending Suspects at Police Stations” is supported by bi-annual police station updates in the excellent “Legal Action” magazine. Cape and Hardcastle and Paul of Kingsley Napley bring years of experience between them. And Jawaid Luqmani of Luqmani, Thompson and Partners provide his expertise in immigration law for the chapter on immigration detainees.

The election of a new government two years ago, in 2024, has “had less of an impact on the investigative stage of the criminal process than some might have thought” write the authors. They go on to say that “the government has committed to increasing the number of police officers which will have an impact on the number of arrests and place greater strain on the criminal defence profession”. And at the time of writing, we await Sir David Gauke’s

PAROLE BOARD HEARINGS Law and Practice

LEGAL ACTION GROUP

The access to justice charity

By Hamish Arnott, Simon Creighton and Dr Laura Janes KC

AN INDISPENSABLE HANDBOOK FOR ALL INVOLVED IN PRISON AND PAROLE LAW

An appreciation by Elizabeth Robson Taylor MA of Richmond Green Chambers and Phillip Taylor MBE, Head of Chambers, Reviews Editor, “The Barrister”, and Mediator

The authors of “Parole Board Hearings” are Hamish Arnott, Simon Creighton and Dr Laura Janes KC who rightly state that this is the only book to comprehensively cover the decision-making powers and procedures of the Parole Board. The Legal Action Group (LAG) are to be commended for the continued publication of this new edition. For those new to LAG, it is a national, independent charity which campaigns for equal access to justice for all members of society.

LAG’s mission aims to strengthen the voice of the people and communities denied access to justice; to support frontline charities, lawyers and advisers to deliver access to justice; and to influence law and policy to improve access to justice and create a fair legal system for all.

This book remains an easy-to-use handbook which provides practical and detailed guidance on parole processes, including recall, for those serving both determinate and indeterminate sentences and we think it is helpful to both professionals and lay people interested in parole.

In the twelve years since the publication of the last edition in 2014, the legal and political landscape around parole has changed almost beyond recognition. It is vital for practitioners to have access to a textbook that brings up to date the current state of parole law and the powers and duties of the Parole Board.

The new edition includes the following detailed information depending on what you are looking for. It offers a comprehensive overview and analysis of the statutory framework, guidance and case-law affecting Parole Board hearings. Of additional assistance is an overview of how risk is assessed with practical guidance on effective representation at parole hearings and the legal aid scheme.

The authors offer a detailed analysis of the duty imposed on the Parole Board to investigate disputed allegations and it includes latest guidance on public parole hearings and the Parole Board’s drive for greater transparency.

We found that the four appendices remain of great additional assistance, containing the Parole Board Rules 2019 plus relevant statutory extracts and guidance to help with an understanding of what can be a formidable and difficult area for many practitioners.

“Parole Board Hearings: law and practice” by Arnott, Creighton and Janes remains essential reading for lawyers, advisers, prisoners and their families, and all those working within prisons and for the prison and probation services and related bodies.

The final word should go to Alexandra Marks CBE, the Chair of the Parole Board for England and Wales, who writes in the Foreword: “I warmly welcome this timely and long-awaited edition as a vital tool for those navigating the complexities of prison and parole law, ensuring justice, public safety and the rehabilitation of offenders”. Sums the book up nicely to us!. ■

ENQUIRIES OF LOCAL AUTHORITIES AND WATER COMPANIES

WILDY, SIMMONDS AND HILL PUBLISHING

By Keith Pugsley and Ken Miles

A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE FOR PRACTITIONERS IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT INVOLVED IN FORM FILLING

An appreciation by Elizabeth Robson Taylor MA of Richmond Green Chambers and Phillip Taylor MBE, Head of Chambers, Reviews Editor, “The Barrister”, and Mediator

In its seventh edition of this wellknown work, solicitors Keith Pugsley and Ken Miles provide a clear and concise commentary on Forms CON29 (2016), CON29O (2016), and CON29DW (2021). It is, effectively, a technical legal guide to form filling from Wildy, Simmonds and Hill Publishing but one which has great significance for local government and water companies.

The authors state that an integral part of the modern conveyancing process is the conduct of a search of the register of local land charges maintained by the district council, and the raising of enquiries of local authorities. And for those new to the system, the register of local land charges contains details of all local land charges registered against property situated in the district administered by the council. This register contains details of such matters as “outstanding liability for road and other financial charges, home improvements grants, tree preservation orders (TPO), and notices served consequent upon the making of a compulsory purchase order (CPO)”.

Whilst there is a multitude of local land charges which are registrable by statute or regulation, these charges are not covered by this book. However, searches of the register can be conducted hence the need for completions of forms, normally electronically these days, which for this work covers Con 29 and involve 3 categories: planning, engineering and environmental health.

Each enquiry is examined in turn, and sets out the relevant and up-to-date legal position, with sources and references, in non-technical language. This short book on “Enquiries of Local Authorities and Water Companies” is a popular practical guide written by Pugsley and Miles and remains an invaluable reference to the conveyancing practitioner and the local land charges officer when form filling.

The authors set out a summary of the implications of any reply by the local authority or water company concerned, positive or negative, so that a prospective purchaser can make a balanced decision as to whether to proceed with the purchase. Do read the main introduction, plus the general notes on Forms Con 29, 29O and 29DW, and the notes at the front of the forms for detailed assistance.

It is important to remember that the forms are approved by The Law Society, and various associations representing the interests of the councils replying to the enquiries. Readers will also be aware that these forms are approved by the Local Government Association, the Council of Mortgage Lenders, Water UK, the Association of Council Secretaries and Solicitors, Land Data on behalf of the NLIS, the Council for Licensed Conveyancers and the Local Land Charges Institute. In short, the authors give you brilliant and detailed assistance in form filling with all the usual questions being answered in the 3 Parts of the book. Thank you, Messrs Pugsley and Miles, for making our job so much easier!. ■

RESTRICTIONS ON THE USE OF LAND A Practitioner’s Handbook

WILDY, SIMMONDS AND HILL PUBLISHING

By William Webster and Robert Weatherley A COMPREHENSIVE HANDBOOK

FOR LAND LAW PRACTITIONERS

An appreciation by Elizabeth Robson Taylor MA of Richmond Green Chambers and Phillip Taylor MBE, Head of Chambers, Reviews Editor, “The Barrister”, and Mediator

William Webster and Robert Weatherley have written an excellent second edition of their accessible practitioners’ handbook on restrictions on the use of land. It is a single up-to-date reference work which discusses a broad range of public and private law topics which directly impact on the use and development of land and remains of great assistance to those involved in land law, and specifically incorporeal hereditaments.

The authors have introduced new chapters on wayleaves, planning enforcement, and trees and hedgerows, and for this updated edition, the authors have included coverage of significant range of recent case law.

For those involved in the interesting world of contentious easements, Regency Villas Ltd v Diamond Resorts (Europe) Ltd [2018] is cited - a case discussing the four essential requirements of an easement, together with some recent authorities, such as Hughes v Benefice of Frampton-on-Severn, Arlingham, Saul, Fretherne & Framilode [2021].

If you are researching legal issues involving town and village greens see TW Logistics Ltd v Essex County Council [2021] covering the post-registration rights of a landowner and the interplay with the so-called ‘Victorian Statutes’, or R (Bellway Homes Ltd) v Kent County Council [2022] which reviews the trigger events under s.15C of the Commons Act 2006

For public rights of way see the commentary in DPP v Ziegler [2021] covering the interplay between a person’s right to protest and the obligation not to obstruct the highway, and R (Monckton) v Staffordshire County Council [2022] which involves a judicial review in the case of a modification order before it was confirmed.

The ever-popular disputes on restrictive covenants are examined in Birdlip Ltd v Hunter [2016] involving the pre-requisites for a building scheme, and Fearn v Board of Trustees of the Tate Gallery [2023] which offers a modern restatement of the law of private nuisance in the context of visual intrusion.

In addition, assets of community value are explored in Banner Homes Ltd v St Albans District Council [2018] - a case discussing the meaning of “actual use” in section 88(2)(a) of the Localism Act 2011 compared with R (TV Harrison CIC) v Leeds City Council [2022] citing a judgment which cites from four decisions of the First Tier Tribunal.

Wildy, Simmonds and Hill Publishing is an independent, family-owned law publisher. Its history goes back to a time when publishers, printers and booksellers were one and the same. While the Wildy & Sons bookshop has been trading from Lincoln’s Inn Archway since 1830, the shop has come across books published by the firm in the early 1820s.

Throughout the years Wildy have continued to publish law titles and work closely with experienced and valued authors, while maintaining the company’s high levels of service to the legal community as exemplified by this excellent work. ■