Wills, Trusts & Probate

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Our specialist Wills, Trusts & Probate Team offer a high level of technical expertise paired with practical solutions and plain-spoken advice to make planning for your future simple.

The team offer a tailored approach to meet the individual requirements of you and your family, whether this be planning for you and your loved one’s future, or dealing with the death of a loved one.

We are happy to talk with you about the services we offer on a no-obligation basis. Please contact us to discuss your situation and requirements further. 

Our team can guide you through a variety of private client matters, including:

Wills

Making a Will is the only way to ensure that the people you wish to inherit your estate actually do end up inheriting it, the importance of having a Will cannot be underestimated, it’s one of the most important documents you could have.

Our specialist Wills solicitors offer a high level of Wills expertise, providing practical solutions and plain-spoken advice to clients, making creating a Will as easy as possible but also ensuring your estate will end up with those you wish to inherit it.

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Trusts

We can help guide you through how to protect and manage your assets and the benefits of placing your estate into a trust.

From inheritance tax to the protection of family members to residential care home fees, trusts can be used to protect assets both during lifetime and after death through different types of trusts.

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Estate Planning

Many future worries you might have including issues with complex family situations or tax can be lessened with careful estate planning, which our team can guide you through.

As no one knows what the future holds, we encourage clients of all ages to consider making arrangements for their and their family’s futures. Our team can help guide you through carefully planning your estate.

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Lasting Powers of Attorney

Our experts can guide you through the process of putting a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) document in place, an essential document should you lose the mental capacity to make key health & financial decisions.

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Probate & the Administration of Estates

Our team advises on all matters relating to this area of law from relatively straightforward estates involving few assets to large estates with complex inheritance tax issues or agricultural and business assets.

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Deputyship & Court of Protection

Our specialist team regularly provide expert advice required to be able to handle applications to the Court of Protection. Our solicitors represent clients with a range of needs, including vulnerable adults who require members of the team to act as professional deputies for them.

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Wills & Probate Disputes

Our dedicated Wills & Probate Disputes Team work with our Wills, Trusts & Probates Team when a contentious Wills or Probate matter arises. The team prides themselves on acting promptly and efficiently, on matters such as challenges to a Will, inheritance claims, claims against executors, undue influence claims and lack of testamentary capacity claims.

Get in touch with our Disputes Team here.

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Leathes Prior recognises the importance of ensuring that older and vulnerable clients are treated with dignity, respect, and kindness at all times, and that this applies also to their families and people representing them. We realise that there is a need to assess whether such clients may require additional consideration by being both sympathetic and sensitive to any issues they may have. Please see our Older and Vulnerable Client Care Policy here for further information.

Some of the work will be carried out by a team of Paralegals or Probate Executives who do much of the day-to-day work on cases. Although they are not legally qualified, they have between a year and 17 years' experience, have received extensive training within our firm, and work under the direct supervision of a solicitor with at least 5 years post qualification experience.

Key Contacts

Claire Woolliscroft TEP

Partner

Louisa Shailes

Senior Associate

Bethany Slaughter

Senior Associate

Pat Gibney

Senior Associate

Billy Coughlin

Chartered Legal Executive

Charlie Watkins

Trainee Solicitor

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What our clients say

Dealing with the death of a loved one and organising distribution of their estate is not an easy process. It can be time consuming and there are many avenues to explore and deal with. There may be pitfalls on the way and hurdles to negotiate but I can recommend Leathes Prior, particularly Pat and Billy and not forgetting Beth and Hannah who dealt with all aspects of my mother’s estate with the utmost care and consideration in a very professional and exemplary manner. Five stars and a ten out of ten rating are completely justified.

Google review

Once again, superb advice and wise counsel from Leathes Prior - this time a shout out for Patrick Gibney who has efficiently dealt with drafting our Wills in a most professional manner.

Google review

We used LP to undertake our first Wills and Jordan Walker couldn't have been more helpful and professional in providing advice and drafting our wills for us. Would thoroughly recommend.

Client feedback

Dedicated private client team in the Norwich area known for acting for a number of wealthy individuals and families. Acts on the full range of legal services including trust and estate planning, wills, probate and powers of attorney. Also has strength in dealing with probate disputes, deputyship issues and Court of Protection matters.

Chambers & Partners

Our solicitor was Patrick Gibney but all staff were friendly. Very satisfied and they were very helpful and friendly. Would highly recommend.

Google review

Pat Gibney could not have been kinder, and more helpful and professional… A very nice man and a great solicitor… Thanks so much. Jan and David Austin.

Google review

We have dealt with Leathes Prior Solicitors for many years and have always been very satisfied. Recently we have updated our Wills and as we are fast approaching 80 years of age, we were especially pleased with their expert knowledge and kind and friendly approach. Everything was explained in a very understanding way. We highly recommend Leathes Prior Solicitors.

Google review

Excellent, professional and emotionally intelligent service provided around drawing up a will.

Google review

5 stars for 5 star service! THANK YOU, Patrick Gibney for your help and support.

Google review

Leathes Prior were recommended to me, and the level of service I have received has been excellent throughout. Pat Gibney’s communication has been outstanding. I never once had to chase for updates, which made dealing with my late brother’s estate so much easier during a very difficult time. Everything was handled with professionalism, care, and efficiency. Because of the excellent service we received, my husband and I later asked Pat to prepare our Wills. Once again, the process was completed very quickly, and everything was explained to us clearly and thoroughly, giving us complete peace of mind. I am so pleased that Leathes Prior were recommended to me. My sincere thanks to Pat and his colleagues for their consistently excellent service.

Client feedback

Thank you so much for everything! We think you have done a great job! We can't quite believe its all done, but we know it is, thanks to your clear explanations, and good communication. Best wishes to you.

Client Feedback

I would like to pass my appreciation for the help and guidance with this case, and how much I really valued from you, your clear explanations, and calm approach even when telling me something I really didn't want to hear!

Client feedback

I would just like to reiterate my words from the other day, we are very happy with the situation and frankly, pretty chuffed to draw the whole thing to a close. My thanks again to yourself and the rest of the team for a job well done. Very best wishes for the future.

Client feedback

Thank you to Billy for your professionalism in preparing our Wills. We requested these were drafted before our upcoming holiday and this was met in a timely manner. He put our minds at complete ease - thank you for your hard work!

Google review

May I take this opportunity to express my sincerest thanks to yourself and the team. Throughout the process we have benefitted from clear, concise communication for which we are grateful. I will also be telling people of our positive experience and expert guidance we have received.

Client feedback

Thanks again for all the contributions that you have both made. I have always felt very assured by the meticulous approaches and professionalism that you both display. I have greatly appreciated your advice, support and guidance, which has been invaluable. Your work has always been incredibly fair, reasonable, and comprehensive.

Client feedback

Insights & Updates

Stay informed with our latest legal insights.

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Spring Statement 2026 - An Overview

With the Government having restricted itself to one fiscal event a year in the form of the Autumn Budget, the Spring Statement is perhaps not the dramatic moment it used to be. It is more a chance for the Government to respond to events and economic forecasts than to set policy for the future.

Sam Poulter
03.03.2026

Charity of the Month: Sue Lambert Trust

Leathes Prior is delighted to be supporting the Sue Lambert Trust as our Charity of the Month for February 2026. Sue Lambert Trust is a leading charity in Norfolk offering free therapeutic counselling and support services to survivors of sexual violence and abuse.

Rhiannon Bond
23.02.2026

Supreme Court ruling set to impact NHS - Children injured by NHS can claim damages for lifetime lost earnings

In February 2026, the Supreme Court passed a ruling which is set to significantly increase the amount of damages the NHS may have to pay for claims brought in respect of children injured at birth, as a result of medical negligence.

Kimberley Nelson
20.02.2026

The Value of Planning Ahead: LPAs & Court of Protection

Putting LPAs in place allows you to choose trusted people to make decisions for you if you lose capacity in the future. This avoids the need for loved ones to make a costly and time-consuming deputyship application to the Court of Protection. With more people likely to experience conditions affecting capacity, more families may need to turn to the Court for support where no LPAs are in place.

Jordan Walker
19.02.2026

Clinical Wills: An overview for Healthcare Practitioners

Ejike Ndaji, Partner in our Wills, Trusts and Probate Team provides an overview of Clinical Wills and their importance to Healthcare Practitioners.

Ejike Ndaji
17.02.2026

Leathes Prior assists Almalumi Group on the acquisition of Yarrowside Limited

Alex Saunders, Partner in the Leathes Prior’s Corporate Team assists Almalumi Group on the acquisition of Yarrowside Limited.

Alex Saunders
17.02.2026
Will

What do Executors and Trustees do, and who should I appoint?

Charlie Watkins, Trainee Solicitor in our Wills, Trusts & Probate Team discusses what Executors and Trustees do, and who you should appoint.

Charlie Watkins
03.02.2026

Charity of the Month: Big C

Leathes Prior is pleased to support Norfolk cancer charity, Big C as its Charity of the Month for January.

Rhiannon Bond
28.01.2026

Freddie Slater becomes the first development driver to be signed by new F1 Team Audi

Dan Chapman, Managing Partner and Head of Sports at Leathes Prior acted on behalf of Freddie Slater as he becomes the first development driver to be signed by Audi Revolut F1 Team.

Peter Lambert
26.01.2026

Business Lasting Powers of Attorney – Why Your Business Needs One

The benefits of having in place Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) documents for one’s personal affairs are now more widely known than was previously the case, Partner, Ejike Ndaji explains.

Ejike Ndaji
26.01.2026

Breaking Up Doesn’t Have to Be Hard: FAQs for Break Clauses in Commercial Leases

Georgia Sartin, Solicitor in our Property Disputes Team answers some frequently asked questions around break clauses in commercial property leases.

Georgia Sartin
23.01.2026

The case of the fake cases: another judgment on AI-hallucinations in litigation

The use of AI Large Language Models in litigation continues to generate headlines (and consternation from the judiciary). In 2025, it seemed that rarely a month went by without a new case on fake AI-generated case law. December was no exception, and the High Court has now issued a further warning regarding the use of AI by litigants.

Chris Goodwin
15.01.2026

LP Celebrates 150th Anniversary

To begin a year of celebrations, this week Leathes Prior are delighted to reveal our refreshed brand identity and website.

Peter Lambert
05.01.2026

The Future of EOTs: Less Tax Relief, Still Strong Potential

Hugo Persad, Trainee Solicitor in our Corporate Team, summarises the impact of reduced Capital Gains Tax (“CGT”) relief on sales to Employee Ownership Trusts (“EOTs”) following the Autumn Budget.

Hugo Persad
18.12.2025

Autumn Budget 2025: Agricultural Property Relief & Business Property Relief Changes

It was announced in the 2025 Budget that from 6 April 2026, changes will be made to agricultural property relief and business property relief. These changes bring APR and BPR in line with the nil-rate band rules, meaning unused allowances can be transferred to a surviving spouse or civil partner. This is a significant step towards making estate planning easier for families who own farms or businesses.

Claire Woolliscroft TEP
18.12.2025

The Employment Rights Act 2025 is expected to come into force tomorrow (18 December 2025)

After an extended period of back-and-forth amendments between Parliament and the House of Lords, on 16 December 2025, the ERB finally received approval from the House of Lords, with the formality of Royal Assent due to take place tomorrow (18 December 2025). Head of LP Employment, Dan Chapman, explains...

Dan Chapman
17.12.2025

Charity of the Month: The Matthew Project

Leathes Prior is delighted to be supporting The Matthew Project as our Charity of the Month for December 2025. The Matthew Project supports young people and adults across Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex to overcome issues around drugs, alcohol, and mental health, empowering them to rebuild confidence and lead fulfilling lives.

Rhiannon Bond
10.12.2025

Leathes Prior’s Milan Pandit appointed President of the Norfolk & Norwich Law Society

Leathes Prior Solicitors is proud to announce that Milan Pandit, Solicitor in our Corporate & Commercial Team, has been appointed President of the Norfolk & Norwich Law Society (NNLS) for 2025/26.

Peter Lambert
04.12.2025

Leathes Prior advises Mapus-Smith & Lemmon LLP on the acquisition Kathryn Gigg Chartered Accountants

Leathes Prior’s Corporate Team has advised Mapus-Smith & Lemmon LLP on the acquisition of Kathryn Gigg Chartered Accountants, Business Advisors & Tax Consultants.

Peter Lambert
03.12.2025

The Autumn Budget 2025: A Summary

Lucy Matthews, Solicitor in our Commercial Team summarises the Autumn Budget 2025 presented by Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves.

Lucy Matthews
26.11.2025

Commercial Lease Renewals: A guide for Landlords & Tenants

Commercial lease renewals are a topic that every commercial landlord and business that rents commercial premises should have at the forefront of their minds. It is essential for good succession planning, though it is often neglected until the expiry of an existing lease term is looming or once the existing term has come to an end and the tenant is holding over. In this article, our newly qualified solicitor, Maggie Berry explores the process that landlords and tenants can expect when navigating this complex area of law.

Maggie Berry
24.11.2025

Our Guidance, Your Legacy: What is a Will, and why should I make one?

Not only is a Will one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected, but it also limits the likelihood of a claim/dispute following your death. To ensure your loved ones and the causes you care about benefit from your estate, a Will is essential to ensuring this happens. Find out more in this article.

Ejike Ndaji
24.11.2025

Lease extensions: The essentials to getting started

Extending your lease can seem complex, but taking the right steps early can make the process much smoother. Jake Mowatt, Associate and Harry Smith, Trainee Solicitor in our Residential Property Team outlines the key essentials every leaseholder should understand prior to extending their lease.

Jake Mowatt
14.11.2025

Leathes Prior acted for Hatfield Investments Limited on the sale of Crossways Residential Home

Leathes Prior's Corporate, Commercial Property & Employment Teams acted for Hatfield Investments Limited on the sale of Crossways Residential Home.

Peter Lambert
13.11.2025

Leathes Prior assists Greenhaul Limited with sale to Ascent Acquisitions Limited

Leathes Prior’s Corporate Team has advised the shareholders of Greenhaul Limited, a family-owned Norfolk transport business, on its sale to Ascent Acquisitions Limited.

Peter Lambert
13.11.2025